Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child Promotes Gap Jeans

There is something about your favorite jeans and your favorite music that always feels right together. Gap recognized this relationship when it first opened in 1969, and jeans and music have continued to go hand and hand as the brand has evolved over the past 35 years.

Gap’s upcoming fall marketing campaign features an exciting new print and television advertising campaign called “Favorites,” which stars a cast of acclaimed musicians including Alanis Morissette, Joss Stone, John Legend, Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child – featured above), Jason Mraz, Keith Urban, Liz Phair and Brandon Boyd (Incubus). The TV campaign captures each musician performing an original remake of their favorite song while wearing their favorite Gap jeans.

Michelle Williams will be performing “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green while sporting Gap’s ‘Straight Boot Cut’ pants.

Photo By: JOHANSEN KRAUSE
via PRNewsWire

P. Diddy’s B5 Debuts In Top 20 On Billboard Charts

Bad Boy Entertainment’s B5 made an impressive debut at #19 this week on the Billboard Top 200 and also enter at #11 on the Billboard R&B Top 200 Album’s Chart with their highly anticipated self-titled CD. The Atlanta-based brothers — Dustin, Kelly, Patrick, Carnell, and Bryan Breeding — merge the old school flair, finesse and energy of the Jackson Five with the modern day pop appeal of N’Sync. B5 have drawn acclaim for their electrifying, high-energy stage shows — complete with street dancing, old school stepping and acrobatics — and have already performed with the likes of Mario Winans, Kanye West, Ginuwine, Usher, Fantasia, Bow Wow, Joe and others.

B5 have been the highlight of the eagerly awaited “BET Presents Scream Tour IV Festival: The Heart Throbs 2005.” The cross-country trek features some of the biggest young names in R&B, including Bow Wow, Omarion, Marques Houston, and Bobby Valentino. Scream Tour IV kicked off July 20th at Trenton, NJ’s Sovereign Arena and will spend the summer rolling through amphitheaters and arenas in close to 30 cities, including an August 24th stop at New York City’s Madison Square Garden.

B5 are also headliners this summer on the “Teen People Rock N’ Shop Mall Tour,” sponsored by Teen People magazine. The tour kicked off in Minneapolis’ Mall of America on Friday, July 8th with an amazing turnout. Their signing session scheduled for after their performance, however, was shut down when the boys were mobbed on their way from the stage to the signing area by over 1,000 excited and screaming teenage fans all wanting autographs.

Describing them as “the group that fills a void in the music industry,” Sean “P. Diddy” Combs and his team pulled out all the stops when it came to B5, hooking them up with some of the top producers in the business, among them Rodney Jerkins (Michael Jackson, Brandy, Whitney Houston), Ryan Leslie (Britney Spears, Carl Thomas), Sean Garrett (Usher, Ciara), Corna Boyz (Jagged Edge), Veit Renn (Backstreet Boys), and, of course, Harve Pierre and P. Diddy himself.

B5′s second single, “U Got Me,” is currently impacting at multi-format radio and video outlets coast to coast. They are #9 this week on the Radio Disney chart and are making a steady climb! The video appears on BET’s 106 & Park Countdown show weekly and is also getting attention at MTV with spins on MTV Hits. B5 are well known among teen music fans. Their website, B5online.com, received more than 10 million hits just during the month of June and a chat with B5 on Teenmusic.com, one of the top teen website, crashed when more then 10,000 kids tried to log on at once. The site received more then 5000 questions for B5 before crashing.

Finalists Are Announced For Rap-It-Up/Black AIDS Short Subject Film Competition

Culminating an extensive national call for submissions, BET, the Black AIDS Institute (The Institute), the Kaiser Family Foundation, and the YWCA are proud to announce the finalists in the 2nd Annual Rap-It-Up/Black AIDS Short Subject Film Competition (RIU/BASS). Ten finalists are now eligible for the next level of competition from which the winning entry will be selected.

The RIU/BASS film competition seeks to highlight the issue of HIV prevention, testing, treatment and the effect of HIV/AIDS on individuals and families in the African American, Afro-Caribbean, and/or Afro-Latin communities in the United States. In particular, the competition helps to raise awareness about the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Black communities; encourages the public to know their status; and seeks to inspire people to take action to stop the spread of the disease. Screenwriters were encouraged to use their creativity to evoke a ‘fresh’ and culturally unique angle on these issues in a way that will resonate with African Americans.

Numerous entries were received and reviewed by a select group of judges from across the country. The finalists are: Drew Anderson, Justin Follin, Charneice Fox and Michelle Sewell (Washington, DC), Multitude of Mercies; Michelle Lynne Coons (California), Let’s Talk; Marquita Edwards (Illinois), Chances; Marcus F. Eubanks & Brandon Joseph (Arkansas), Conscious Cafe; Andrea Greer & Simone Murray (New York), Once; Charmain Johnson (Florida), Victims; Joie Lee (New York), Positive; Gregory Roberts (Illinois), The Edge Of The Looking Glass; Yasin Shabazz (Georgia), The Release Of Jackie Davis; and Lanette Ware Bushfield (New York), Gisele and Me.

“Given recent data released by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), it is clear that AIDS has reached a level that we can no longer ignore,” commented Phill Wilson, Executive Director of the Black AIDS Institute. “The RIU/BASS film competition is another attempt to sound the alarm and mobilize the troops in an effort to finally put an end to this tragedy.”

“BET is extremely proud of both the success and impact the RIU/BASS film competition has had in depicting the extent of HIV/AIDS within the African- American community,” said Kelli Lawson, BET’s Executive Vice President of Corporate Marketing. “We look forward to continuing to promote HIV/AIDS awareness while also extending the unique opportunity for talented filmmakers to showcase their amazing work.”

“The impressive mix of powerful stories illustrates the magnitude and depth of the impact HIV/AIDS is having on African Americans throughout the U.S.,” said Tina Hoff, Vice President and Director of Entertainment Media Partnerships at the Kaiser Family Foundation.

“HIV/AIDS clearly creates yet another hurdle for African American women in their struggle to improve the socioeconomic outlook for themselves and their families,” said Debra Roth, Director of Communication and Marketing for the YWCA USA. “As the YWCA USA works to eliminate racism and empower women, we are very conscious of any influence that stands between these women and their full potential. We hope that our sponsorship of this film contest raises awareness, detection and treatment of this disease.”

The winner will be announced on August 8, 2005, and the winning film will televise on the BET network around World AIDS Day (December 1, 2005). This year’s RIU/BASS film competition follows a successful first year of notable awards and accolades for its two winning films, “Walking on Sunshine” and “Tangy’s Song!”, including the 2005 Cable Positive Award for Outstanding Film/Movie and a 2005 NAACP Image Award nomination for “Walking on Sunshine”; and a Bronze Telly Award for “Tangy’s Song!”.

HIV/AIDS continues to devastate Black communities across the globe. It is a leading cause of death for African Americans between the ages of 25 and 44 and is the top cause of death for African-American women between the ages of 25 – 34. Although African Americans represent only 13% of the U.S. population, they accounted for approximately half (49%) of AIDS diagnosis in 2003.

Via PRNewswire

Black Family Channel Signs Distribution Deal With Verizon

Verizon has announced a programming-distribution agreement with Black Family Channel, which delivers entertainment, sports, informational and inspirational programming for African-American and urban families 24 hours a day. Under the agreement, Verizon will carry the channel on Verizon Fios TV when it launches later this year.

Black Family Channel joins other major and independent cable networks that will be part of Verizon’s TV service. Verizon will offer a variety of culturally diverse programming, including content from such network groups as NBC Universal Cable, A&E Television Networks, Discovery Networks, Si TV and TBS, Inc. Verizon previously announced multiple-channel agreements with these and other networks for a wide range of familiar, diverse and newer programming. Black Family Channel will be available to subscribers of Verizon’s expanded basic service.

“We are pleased to offer Black Family Channel, which features a family-friendly lineup of news and information, and original and lifestyle programming, that will appeal to African- American viewers,” said Terry Denson, vice president of programming and marketing for Verizon Fios TV. “Black Family Channel advances our commitment to provide increased content choice and diversity to future Fios TV customers.”

Rick Newberger, Black Family Channel’s president and CEO said, “TV from new competitors is clearly going to be an important component of the future of multi-channel television in this country, and we are excited to be part of shaping that future with Verizon. The African-American family watches more television and spends more on television services than any other demographic or ethnic group. We are pleased that Verizon has recognized the needs of this important customer, and we look forward to working with Verizon to make Fios TV a big success.”

Black Family Channel’s programming mix includes a unique blend of original shows created by Hollywood actor and filmmaker Robert Townsend, who is the president and CEO of productions for Black Family Channel.

Verizon Fios TV will offer customers a competitive alternative to cable or satellite. Fios TV will deliver hundreds of digital video and music channels, high definition programming, video-on-demand content, an interactive programming guide and other customer-friendly features via the company’s fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) broadband network. Verizon is already constructing FTTP networks in parts of 15 states, more than half the states where it offers landline communications services. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Via PRNewswire

Hip Hop Star Nelly Announces Partnership With Reebok

Three-time Grammy Award winner, Nelly and Reebok announced a long-term partnership that includes a signature collection of athletic footwear, apparel and accessories. The initial launch of the collection will be in holiday 2005 in select boutiques and athletic specialty retailers with an expanded distribution in 2006. The collection will feature clean, aggressive, sport-inspired designs with unique colors and materials that reflect Nelly’s personal style and flavor.

“I’ve always been into sneakers and throughout my career I’ve always wanted to have a signature pair of sneakers that truly reflect my personal style,” said Nelly. “It made the most sense for me to partner with Reebok because they fully understand and respect the culture of sports, music and entertainment.”

Nelly will also be featured in Reebok’s “I Am What I Am” global advertising campaign. Created by New York advertising agency mcgarrybowen, the “I Am What I Am” campaign celebrates contemporary heroes of today’s global youth including music icons, athletes and entertainers. Nelly is the newest star to join the Reebok “I Am What I Am” family which includes Allen Iverson, Jay-Z, Yao Ming, Curt Schilling, 50 Cent, Nicole Vaidisova, Donovan McNabb, Christina Ricci, Stevie Williams, and many more. The multi-faceted campaign links the entire brand’s marketing and advertising efforts under the “I Am What I Am” umbrella, and is supported by the company’s largest advertising spend in nearly a decade.

“Reebok’s partnership with Nelly elevates the fusion of sports and music to a whole new level,” says Dennis Baldwin, Reebok’s chief marketing officer. “Not only is Nelly an incredible artist, but his passion for music is equally matched by his love of sports. Nelly has a unique style that transcends music and cultural genres with a broad consumer appeal that speaks to who Reebok truly is as a brand.”

The partnership was secured with the assistance of Steve Stoute, founder of Translation entertainment marketing firm. Stoute, who serves as a consultant for Reebok, plays a key role in the brand’s affiliation in the entertainment industry. “Nelly is a great addition to the Rbk family,” said Stoute. “He is grounded in authenticity which makes him a perfect fit for the brand.”

Born Cornell Haynes Jr., the St. Louis, Missouri native has long been recognized for his unique style and influence as an entertainer. Nelly has had success across the board from recording hit songs with musicians such as Pharrell Williams, P. Diddy, Tim McGraw and Justin Timberlake. With more than 30 million albums sold throughout his career, Nelly is universally acknowledged as one of the top selling rap artists of all-time.

Not simply satisfied with making music, Nelly, outfitted in Reebok apparel, scored plenty of touchdowns as a star in the film “The Longest Yard”. Additionally, the one-time baseball prospect that was scouted by the Pittsburgh Pirates and Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball, became only the second music artist to become part owner of an NBA franchise as he joined the expansion Charlotte Bobcats. In addition to participating in baseball and basketball, Nelly has performed at two Super Bowls during his music career (Super Bowls XXXV and XXXVIII).

Via PRNewswire

Hip Hop & Gospel Music Come Together To Make An ‘Impact’

The first annual Urban IMPACT Summit featuring Dr. Bobby Jones will convene August 7-10, 2005 at the world’s largest casino — Foxwoods Casino Resort at the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation reservation in Connecticut. The Summit will bridge the worlds of Hip Hop and Gospel Music, bringing together political leaders, professional athletes, religious scholars, musicians, artists, writers, publishers, and all other professionals within the African-American Community to learn more about and from each other. Keynote panel discussions to address urban issues, gospel, money & finance and a hip hop summit.

Celebrities confirmed to attend include Cheryl “Salt” James, formerly of the Grammy award-winning rap group “Salt-n-Pepa”, the Reverends Lennox Yearwood and Floyd Flake, Olympic Silver Medalist Annia Hacth and others for this historic meeting about how the Hip Hop and gospel music professionals can work together to educate artists, songwriters and entrepreneurs on the business side of show business.

“We are proud to bring this conference to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Reservation,” said Dr. Jones. “When I visited earlier this year and toured the museum, I was struck by the awesomeness of what this tribe has accomplished. I wanted to share that culture with my audience.”

“We are pleased to have the Urban IMPACT Summit here at Foxwoods,” says Michael J. Thomas, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation at Foxwoods. “We host a variety of culturally diverse events, so it is great to have such a unique and positive occasion take place at Foxwoods.”

This unique forum will provide not just music but panels on health, finance, and other related topics. “In the beginning of our struggle here in America, the Black Church was a focal part of the community,” says Dr. Jones. “We want to put unity back into the community. But we must first have open dialogue.” Jones is scheduled to tape his Word Network TV show “Let Talk Church,” which deals with urban issues, at the summit.

Urban IMPACT Summit was developed from a conversation between Dr. Bobby Jones and entertainment attorney James L. Walker, Jr. With the theme of “embrace, educate and empower,” they see the summit as an opportunity to bridge the gap between the gospel and Hip Hop communities. “I have worked in both genres of music,” says Walker. “I grew up fighting racial injustice and poverty. I just want to give back and prepare the next generation for greater works.”

Aside from the TV taping, other events will include gospel hit-maker James Hall recording a new live CD at the resort, a Hip Hop concert at B.B. King’s Club in Foxwoods and a black tie Legends dinner honoring gospel stars such as the Hawkins Family, Candi Staton, Daryl Coley and Twinkie Clark.

With a $700 million expansion recently announced, that includes a new 5,000 seat multi-purpose theatre; Foxwoods continues to be the ultimate entertainment destination on the East Coast. Foxwoods has hosted more Grammy Award winners than any other venue in New England, many of which had their first casino debut in the Fox Theatre. For more information, log-on http://www.urbanimpactsummit.com

Via Foxwoods Resort Casino

LL Cool J Signs Multi-picture Deal With Lions Gate Films

Lions Gate Films, the motion picture acquisition, production and distribution arm of Lions Gate Entertainment (NYSE: LGF; Toronto), has signed a multi year, multi-picture development and production deal with LL Cool J aka James Todd Smith, it was announced today by Michael Paseornek, President of Production, Lions Gate Films. LL Cool J and his manager Jason Barrett will be producing all pictures through this venture.

“We are thrilled to be working with a talent like LL Cool J,” said Paseornek. “LL and Jason fit perfectly with our mandate to continue to be the leading producer of films for the urban market.”

“It is a wonderful opportunity to be in business with Lions Gate which has demonstrated a knack for success with urban audiences. This is the perfect transition for me as I can now pour all the energy and creative juices I have learned over the years into this fresh and exciting producing venture. As the movie business evolves, I know we can stay ahead of the curve in producing and developing quality material,” said LL Cool J.

Paseornek and John Sacchi, Senior Vice President of Production will oversee production on behalf of Lions Gate Films, with LL Cool J Incorporated and Jason Barrett of Alchemy Entertainment producing. Lions Gate Films will retain all worldwide rights with Nicolas Meyer, President of Lions Gate International, and Stephanie Denton, President of Lions Gate Films International, brokering rights internationally.

Robert Melnik, Executive Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs, negotiated the deal on behalf of Lions Gate Films. The William Morris Agency along with attorney Jason Sloan of Sloan, Webber, Offer and Dern represented LL Cool J aka James Todd Smith and Jason Barrett.

Via PRNewswire

Al Sharpton Hosts New Talk Show

They are a legendary part of African American life. Hollywood has made hit movies about them. And now TV One has enlisted Rev. Al Sharpton to host a talk and interview series that will take place in those havens of African American culture where no topic is off limits – barbershops. This fall, TV One will premiere Cuttin’ Up with Al Sharpton, where Rev. Sharpton will bring celebrities, politicians, sports figures and other interesting characters to barbershops across New York where he, the shop patrons and barbers can interview them and engage in candid conversation and often hilarious discourse.

Each week, TV One viewers will be a fly on the wall as Rev. Sharpton and his guests hear what’s really on the minds of African Americans, whether it be politics, sports, social issues or current events. And, of course, the host and former Democratic Presidential candidate will offer his own unvarnished views and moderate the lively conversation.

“I’m excited about working with TV One, especially on a series that will focus on issues that are truly important to African Americans,” said Rev. Sharpton. “While we expect to have a good time and a lot of laughs along the way, we’re also going to be talking to real people about what’s most important to them, and there’s no better place for candid conversations than barbershops.”

“We’re delighted to have Rev. Sharpton working with us on this unique series,” said TV One President and CEO Johnathan Rodgers. “At TV One, our mission is to showcase the breadth and depth of the African American culture, and our barbershops are an integral part of that culture. Men and women of all ages and from all walks of life meet at their neighborhood barbershops — it’s in many ways the community ‘watercooler,’ where we laugh and talk and catch up on important news of the day.”

Cuttin’ Up with Al Sharpton is slated to premiere in November 2006 and will be produced for TV One by The House, Inc. Executive producer is Diane Houslin and TV One executive in charge of production is Sitarah Pendleton, vice president of production and development.

Via PRNewswire

Blacks in L.A. Trail All Other Ethnic Groups According To New Report

United Way of Greater Los Angeles and the Urban League of Los Angeles released an extensive study detailing “The State of Black Los Angeles.” The findings indicate striking disparities in conditions for Blacks in Los Angeles compared to other major ethnic groups. Among the four major ethnic groups in Los Angeles — Blacks, Asians, Latinos and Whites — Blacks had the lowest Equality Index score (69 for Blacks, versus 98 for Asians, 71 for Latinos and 100 for Whites), determined by a compilation of data on economics, housing, health, education, criminal justice and civic engagement.

Key findings indicating disparity between Blacks and other ethnic groups:

– 44% of Black high schoolers fail to graduate with their class in four years
– Blacks have the highest rate of homelessness, and are estimated to be 30% or more of the county’s homeless population
– Blacks have the highest overall death rate, at nearly double the rate of Latinos, with rates far higher than other groups for heart disease, homicide and HIV/AIDS
– Blacks receive longer prison sentences than other groups: for Blacks, the average sentence for violent offenses is 46 months, compared to 39 months for Latinos and just 13 months for Whites
– Blacks have the lowest median household income at $31,905 compared to Latinos at $33,820 and whites at $53,978
– 47% of Black adults attended college, but only 18% actually complete a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to 43% of Asians, 38% of Whites and 7% of Latinos who have college degrees
– Although Blacks are just 10% of the county’s population, 56% of racial hate crimes target Blacks

On a more positive note:
– African Americans have rallied to achieve strong representation the county’s top elective offices up from just 1% in 1960 to 14% in 2004
– 8% of the county’s Black households have incomes over $100,000, above the national rate of 6%
– Blacks rate highest of all groups in civic engagement, including citizenship, voting, military service and union membership

Modeled after the National Urban League’s “State of Black America” report, the “State of Black LA” study provides a snapshot of African Americans in Los Angeles, one of the nation’s largest Black metropolitan areas. The report also outlines Key Action Recommendations in the six key areas, demonstrating the commitment of the United Way, Urban League and other civic leaders to taking immediate action to improve conditions for African Americans and the community-at-large.

“From the start this truly collaborative project was not meant to simply point out problems, but to show why they exist and, more importantly, to help the community take action,” said John Mack, immediate past president of Los Angeles Urban League. “While the statistics are sobering, we are confident that our community has the tools to better conditions for African Americans and all Angelenos.”

“This report provides critical information to help our community understand that there are real people behind the statistics, people who need assistance,” said Elise Buik, president and CEO, United Way of Greater Los Angeles. “It is incumbent upon all of us, leaders and citizens alike, to find ways to make important, needed changes to benefit the entire community.”

All of the conditions outlined in the State of Black LA report are tightly interwoven. Improvement in one area, such as education, will influence the improvement in another area, such as criminal justice. These actions are rungs on the “Ladder of Hope,” interrelated factors, which help determine the overall well being of a community, guiding the community towards significant changes that can and will affect the future.

Actions for change:
– Education that builds 21st century skills leading to more rewarding career options and improved labor force
– Affordable housing will allow families to build savings, develop assets and put down roots in creating more stable communities
– Equal treatment by the criminal justice system will build confidence in the law enforcement, minimize community tension and engage residents in making neighborhoods safer

The full 100+ page report and the 28 page summary report can be found at http://www.unitedwayla.org

Via PRNewswire

Former President Bill Clinton to Speak At NABJ Convention in Atlanta

Former President Bill Clinton will deliver the keynote address at the National Association of Black Journalists’ 30th Anniversary Convention and Career Fair in Atlanta, NABJ President Herbert Lowe announced today.

“President Clinton is no stranger to NABJ and we are pleased that this very accomplished world leader will visit with us to share his perspective on the important issues that we as journalists are covering in our towns, cities and states every day,” said Lowe, a reporter at Newsday in New York.

In 1992, Clinton became the first major U.S. presidential candidate to speak to the nation’s largest organization for journalists of color when he spoke at its convention in Detroit. Five years later, in Chicago, he kept his promise and became the first sitting U.S. President to address the association.

Last summer in Washington, President George W. Bush and U.S. Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.), and then-U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell addressed thousands of NABJ members and other journalists of color at the Unity 2004 convention.

Held this year at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, NABJ’s convention is expected to draw more than 3,000 attendees and is the largest annual professional gathering devoted to black journalists.

Another program highlight: Bishop T.D. Jakes, one of America’s most influential ministers, is expected to speak during a plenary session, “Mega Churches: The Power, Influence and Impact.”

This year’s convention theme is “Telling Our Story” and reflects NABJ’s yearlong celebration of the passion, pride, purpose and power of black journalists over the last three decades.

As part of its anniversary celebration, NABJ will honor the 44 brave men and women who founded it in 1975 and the 15 men and women elected to serve as association president. Also, the 30 most influential moments impacting black journalists since 1975 will be spotlighted at this year’s convention and career fair.

The convention will also feature the nation’s largest journalism career fair along with specialized workshops, plenary sessions with other national figures, professional development breakfasts targeted to various journalism disciplines, a Hall of Fame awards banquet, a gospel brunch, media receptions, an exhibit area and so much more for seasoned, up-and-coming and future journalists.

For more information about the convention, visit http://www.nabj.org or call (301) 445-7100.

Via PRNewswire

BET Sponsors Summer Camp to Promote Healthy Living

Following the highly successful 2005 Healthy BET Fitness Challenge, a vigorous 12-week fitness program that encouraged African-American women to adopt healthier lifestyles; the BET Foundation in partnership with BET kicks off the next phase of its fitness initiatives -”Summer Camp For Girls.” The special summer camp program hopes to raise awareness of obesity and the related health issues that impact African-American girls in an exclusive one-week program at Camp Shane located in Ferndale, New York.

The “Summer Camp For Girls” takes place August 21 – 27, and is set specifically for Camp Shane because of its nearly 40 years of experience in uniquely tailored programs for weight loss and health education. The BET Foundation created this special camp as an innovative weight reduction and nutrition-based program for African American girls ages 10 – 12 from low to moderate-income families. The purpose is to provide young girls with the vital information and tools necessary to aid them in making healthy lifestyle choices, and to serve as a “health” advocate for their family and peers. The camp curriculum will provide simple nutrition strategies; instill positive leadership and decision-making skills; and provide a fun-filled, memorable camp experience.

Read more

First Hip Hop Reality Sitcom Coming To Mtv

MTV: Music Television has announced that the reality sitcom “Run’s House,” brought to MTV by Sean “P. Diddy” Combs’ Bad Boy TV and Russell Simmons is set to air in October on MTV. The series, television’s first hip hop reality sitcom, will capture the real-life drama and hysterical antics of Reverend Run (Joey Simmons) of Run DMC, his wife and five children.

“It makes sense that Bad Boy and MTV would produce the first hip-hop reality sitcom,” said Combs. “It’s a dream come true to be able to work with Russell on Run’s House. Rev Run is a legend and one of the most interesting individuals I know — he’s destined to become America’s next biggest reality show star! He’s going to show the world what hip-hop family life is really like.”

“America needs Rev Run to show his reality. He’s hip hop grown up. His family and his guidance will inspire us all. This show is ‘Father Knows Best in Steroids,’” said Russell Simmons.

“My family is my ministry,” said Reverend Run. “I’m gonna raise it up with or without cameras. But I’m excited to do it on MTV.”

“Reverend Run is one of the great pioneers in hip hop and has a long history with MTV,” said Brian Graden, President, Entertainment MTV Music Group and President, Logo. “While ‘Run’s House’ gives our viewers an inside look at the lives of hip-hop royalty, our audience will also be able to relate to and laugh along with the family, whose life is fundamentally about heart, humor and everyday challenges.”

In “Run’s House,” Reverend Run must balance recording his first ever solo album with raising five spirited children ages 9-21. The Simmons family is comprised of: Run’s wife Justine, a former rapper/singer and loving wife and mother; Vanessa, 21, a Ford model, former Miss Teen New York and aspiring actress; Angela, 17, a straight A student and aspiring fashion designer; JoJo, 15, a talented rapper who loves music and girls; Diggy, 9, star of the basketball team and an aspiring rapper; and Russell, Jr., 8, the mischievous little brother. The Simmons kids “have it all,” from a glamorous life to typical teenage insecurities. Just down the street from Run’s Saddle River, New Jersey home live his brother and sister in law Russell and Kimora Simmons who spend time with the family and vacation with them in St. Barts.

Russell Simmons, Stan Latham and John Davies serve as creators and Executive Producers. Sean “P. Diddy” Combs is Executive Producer. Jac Benson is Executive Producer. Jason Carbone is Executive Producer. For MTV, Tony DiSanto serves as Executive Producer and Liz Gateley serves as Executive in Charge of Development.

Via PRNewswire

Jermaine Taylor Defeats Bernard Hopkins

Undefeated Jermaine Taylor, age 26, defeated Bernard Hopkins by split decision to claim the undisputed middleweight crown on July 16th, 2005.

Bernard Hopkins, 40, held a ten year (plus) reign until he met defeat against the undefeated “heir apparent” to the middleweight division.

The judges scorecards were split but Taylor won the opening rounds and showed more zest throughout most rounds. However, end of match stats showed that Hopkins landed more punches overall. Critics cited that Nevada judges historically favored more active fighters regardless of accuracy.

Jermaine Taylor represents one of the few ‘people to watch’ in a new era of boxing where a heavy changing of the guard is taking place in many professional weight divisions.

A Midsummer Night’s Magic Kicks Off With Celeb Gala

Atlanta-based rapper Ludacris poses with Spoylt lingerie model Celia Evans while she enjoys the “Sweet and Spoylt by Remy Martin” cocktail at an awards dinner to kick off A Midsummer Night’s Magic in Los Angeles. Remy is a longtime sponsor of the week-long philanthropic endeavor founded by NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson.

For the past two decades, A Midsummer Night’s Magic has raised millions to send minorities to college.

Via Feature Photo Service

Wrigley’s Spearmint-Doublemint Twins Casting Call Promotion Winners

Twin sisters Tracy Williams Pointer of Nashville, Tenn., and Stacy Williams Cohen of Louisville, Ky., are the winners of Wrigley’s Spearmint-Doublemint Twins casting call promotion. “Tracy and Stacy were selected because they represented the fun and vibrant personalities we were looking for and embodied the simple, enjoyable pleasures of Wrigley’s Spearmint and Doublemint gum,” said Shari Matras, U.S. consumer marketing director, Wrigley.

Hundreds of twins from across the country participated in live casting call events held in April in New York and Chicago and more than a thousand submitted photos at http://www.twinscastingcall.com for consideration. During their audition, Tracy and Stacy wore white and green roller skates and sang the new Wrigley’s Spearmint-Doublemint jingle.

Next Page »