Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Maurette Brown Clark Video Now Online!

If you missed the world debut of Malaco / Air recording artist Maurette Brown Clark "It Ain't Over", we just posted it on YouTube. Let us know what you think. Leave a comment. Check it out by clicking here!

Monday, April 27, 2009

Three Malaco Brothers

As seen in Soul Express

Soulscape keeps on delving into Malaco’s vaults and finding solid material. Malaco Soul Brothers, vol. 1 (SSCD 7017; 25 tracks, 76 min.; liners by John Ridley) introduces us to Chuck Brooks, Joe Wilson and George Soule, and there are as many as ten previously unreleased tracks.

Chuck Brooks (9 tracks) cut a lot of funk and pop for Mercury, Chimneyville, GSF and Malaco between 1972 and 1977, but he recorded some convincing slow material, too. Loneliness (Is a Friend of Mine) is a pleading soul ballad, but the pretty A Little Bit More leans heavily on country and pop. I Believe in Love is a lush big ballad, whereas What Would We Do without Music is a perky pop mover. In the 80s and 90s Chuck became known mainly as a writer and producer and a partner of Carl Hampton.

Joe Wilson’s (13 tracks) ’71 – ’73 releases on Malaco, Dynamo and Avco were produced by Wardell Quezergue, and again among them there were some fast poppy songs, such as (Don’t Let Them) Blow Your Mind, Let a Broken Heart Come in and Sweetness. At time Joe’s voice distantly reminds you of Clyde McPhatter. When a Man Cries is an impressive Southern soul ballad, which has appeared on a few other compilations earlier. Other richly orchestrated and touching slowies include Our Love Is Strong, Sour Love, Bitter Sweet and You Need Me.

George Soule (3 tracks) is a blue-eyed musician, writer and producer, who’s still active today. Talkin’ about Love and The Easiest Thing I’ve Ever Done are both pop, but That’s Why I’m a Man (demo) is a slow and convincing testimony with a soul feel to it. Since this CD was volume one, it means that there’s still more to come.

As seen in Soul Express

It took almost five years for us to hear new music from Shirley, but finally Unleashed (MCD7535; www.malaco.com) is here. It starts with a serene and rather mellow ballad called Upside Down, which, however, vocally grows into a passionate eruption. The song was written and produced by Frederick Knight, but unfortunately his second contribution, an almost funky beater called Let Me Relax You, isn’t on a par of that opener but, on the contrary, sounds rather dull.

Vick Allen did a lot of producing for this set, and the first song is his and Omar Cunningham’s I Don’t Wanna Leave, a slow swayer with powerful singing again. The mid-tempo If You Can’t Hit It Right (co-written by Tonya Youngblood Polk) is more mediocre and ominous. Vick also wrote and produced together with Shirley two songs, a poppy mid-tempo stepper titled You Should’a Know Better and a poignant and impressive deepie named Why, which is dedicated to the ones we’ve lost.

I’m afraid that the late Charles Richard Cason’s and Zuri’s two repetitive jams (Clean House and I Wish You Didn’t Love Me So Good) leave me cold. They simply are too “hip-hop” and contemporary for Shirley’s emotive and established old-school style.

On A Sample of my Love, a mid-tempo beater with an irresistible groove, and (You Promised Me Heaven, But) You Gave Me Hell, a bluesy slowie, it says that “initial tracks and lead vocals recorded at Ecko Sound Studios in Memphis, TN.” The writers of those two songs are John Ward, Raymond Moore and Larry Chambers. Malaco’s Vice president, Wolf Stephenson: “John Ward runs the Ecko studios in Memphis, and he has written a lot of songs for us in the past. He used to be a signed writer to Malaco Music for years. He submitted five songs, and Shirley chose those two. John Ward: “I sent those songs to Shirley, because I knew she was cutting her new CD. At first they were going to record them at Malaco and I assumed they would redo the tracks. But Shirley liked the feel I had on the tracks and was afraid they would lose the feel, if they recut them, so she asked if she could use my tracks. They decided to just come here and cut the vocals, since Wolf Stephenson was coming through town anyway on his way back from Nashville to Jackson. So that’s how we ended up doing the vocals and basic tracks here. After the vocals were cut, we sent the tracks with her vocals down to Malaco for more overdubs and mixing. I was glad that Shirley did the songs and thought she did a great job on them.”

The last three tracks, produced by Wolf Stephenson, were cut at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in 2003, and they feature real instruments. Wolf: “Those three tracks were recorded at the same time as Shirley’s previous album (Woman Enough), and we did not use those songs. Since then I went back and listened to them and decided to put them on the album.”

The first of those tracks is a hurting ballad called When I Hear Your Name. Written by Rue Davis and Harrison Calloway, it’s another big-voiced performance from Shirley. “When we were getting ready to do that album, I told Rue Davis that we needed some songs for Shirley. He had a few ideas, and I asked him to finish them with her in mind. Rue Davis is the one, who comes up with the idea, lyrics and such, and Harrison Calloway wrote the music part of the song.”

Shirley is determined on Luther Lackey’s beat ballad named You Ain’t Gone Get No More of My Love and gives advice on another Luther’s tune, the softer Watch What You Tell Your Friends. Wolf: “Luther has written other songs for us. He’s a local guy, a writer and a singer, and he has a lot of ideas for songs. He writes songs all the time.”

“We released the single, the lead-off song, Upside Down, and that’s a ballad, but also some of the uptempo songs are getting action. Several radio stations are picking them up.”

Recently Wolf has spent a lot of time in the studio. “We just signed a new artist that we’re really excited about. She was, I think, a runner-up in last year’s America’s Got Talent show, Queen Emily (www.queenemily.org). We were able to sign her, and we just finished the tracks last week. Hopefully we have the product to come out in August.”

If you like Shirley’s music and if you only have time, you could read my 3-part Shirley Brown story at www.soulexpress.net/shirleybrown.htm.

The Rev. Timothy Wright, Has Made Heaven His Final Resting


Article By Sheilah Belle of The Belle Report

Brooklyn, NY -- Rev. Timothy Wright, known as the “godfather of gospel” has made Heaven his final resting place. He passed over into his peaceful resting place, early Friday morning, April 24th, 2009. Bishop Albert Jamison told us here at The Belle Report, “I got the call around 12:45am, shortly after the baseball game went off.”

Bishop Jamison has been extremely helpful with Rev. Wright’s family during this transition as he has also been keeping us well informed here. To that end, Bishop Jamison has released the following information:

Public viewing for Rev. Timothy Wright
Grace Tabernacle Church of God in Christ
Crown Heights, Brooklyn, New York
Saturday, May 2nd , 12noon to 8p.m.

Sunday, May 3rd, 1:p.m. to 5p.m.
A Nightly Musical Tribute to Rev. Timothy Wright

Sunday, May 3rd @ 7p.m.
Pleasant Grove Tabernacle
Fulton & Howard Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Bishop Albert Jamison, pastor

Home going Service for Rev. Timothy Wright
Monday, May 4th @ 10am
Pilgrim Cathedral
Broadway & Gates Avenue
Brooklyn, NY, 11221
Bishop Roy E. Brown, pastor

More details, still to come, but may we keep the entire Wright family and friends of the family in prayer.

~

His passing follows the critically injury and death of his wife and grandson killed when a wrong-way driver hit their vehicle in Pennsylvania, last year.

http://news.aol.com/article/timothy-wright-famed-ny-gospel-singer/444447?flv=1


=============================================

ABOUT REV. TIMOTHY WRIGHT

Rev. Timothy Wright Biography

Gospel director Reverend Timothy Wright has been involved with choirs on a regular basis for most of his life. Wright began playing piano at the age of 12, as he utilized his budding musical talents at the St. John's Fire Baptized Holiness Church of God in Brooklyn, NY, eventually composing for the church's choir. By 1969, Wright was playing piano for the late Bishop F.D. Washington, and it was from his tenure in Washington's choir that Wright gained the attention of Rev. Isaac Douglas and the N.Y. Community Choir, for which Wright soon began playing organ for, as well as penning almost all the songs on Douglas' 1971 album Lets Go Higher. In the mid-'70s, Wright formed his own outfit, the Timothy Wright Concert Choir, resulting in such releases as Who's on the Lord's Side and Do You Know the Light, and began playing with various other choirs across the United States. Wright also found the time to team up with Myrna Summers for her We're Gonna Make It release, as well as forming the project Come Thou Almighty King, which is comprised of a 500-voice choir. Wright is the pastor and founder of the Grace Tabernacle Cristian Center in Brooklyn, and since 1990 has been issuing albums on a regular basis, including such titles as I'm Glad About It, Moving in the Spirit, and Story to Tell. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide

Thursday, April 23, 2009

WATCH “IT AIN’T OVER” VIDEO THIS SUNDAY ON BET


The Malaco Music Group invites you to watch “It Ain’t Over” (Until God Says It’s Over), the first ever concept video for two time Stellar Award winner, Atlanta International Records (Air Gospel) recording artist Maurette Brown Clark this Sunday, April 26, 2009 on BET’s Video Gospel. (Check local listing)

“It Ain’t Over” (Until God Says It’s Over) is also making it’s way up the Urban AC charts receiving double digit spins on Urban AC stations such as KQXL in Baton Rouge.

This song marks Ms. Clark’s 2nd consecutive Gospel R&R / Billboard Top 5 & Mediabase Top 4 song, from her CD “The Dream.”

You don’t want to miss this!!!

Set your VCR, DVR or TIVO!

“The Dream” is available In Stores, iTUNES, or log on to www.malaco.com

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

“IT AIN’T OVER” VIDEO WORLD PREMIERE HALTED DUE TO TECHNICAL ISSUE

On this past Sunday, April 19, 2009 “It Ain’t Over” (Until God Says It’s Over), the first ever concept video for two time Stellar Award winner, Atlanta International Records (Air Gospel) recording artist Maurette Brown Clark was scheduled to make its “world premiere” debut on The Gospel Music Channel, but was halted due to a technical issue.

The “world premiere” was to take place immediately following the 3 pm (est.) Sunday afternoon movie “Oh God Book II”, approximately 5:15 pm.

Alvin Williams, Senior Director, Music, Talent and Acquisition states, “On behalf of Gospel Music Channel please accept my sincere apologies on Maurette's new hot video, “It Ain’t Over” (Until God Says It's Over), not airing as a World Premiere this past Sunday. Due to Sunday's movie running long the video was pulled without our knowledge or approval. We here at Gospel Music Channel were excited to have Maurette's World Premiere. Please note we have placed this video in immediate rotation and will work to place online for all fans to see at anytime. I will follow-up with you when this video has been placed online. Again, please forgive us for this technical issue that was out of our control.”

The Malaco Music Group would like to thank all of the radio programmers and other media outlet personnel for tuning in to watch, informing and encouraging your captive audience to watch as well; In addition, we would also like to thank The Gospel Music Channel for the opportunity and their continued support.

Ricky Bobby Ringtone Now Available!


Malaco is proud to offer "Do The Ricky Bobby" as a ringtone. This song is currently featured on BET's 106 & Park and is burning up the charts.

To get this ringtone, text rickybobby to 66399 for only $2.99. The one time charge will appear on your wireless phone bill or be deducted from your prepaid account.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Do The Ricky Bobby Video

Check out the video for Do The Ricky Bobby. Click Here!

Stellar Award Nominee Jai Reed Wins Big Easy Award!

It was a busy weekend for Jai Reed in his hometown of New Orleans. He was the opening act for the gospel diva duo Mary Mary at the House of Blues with a 30 minute performance of his original music from his current CD entitled, “Anointed For Purpose.” As he ended his performance he engaged the audience to participate and they sang background for him as he led several popular hymns, bringing in the Holy Spirit and creating an atmosphere of church as only he could do. Look for him to return to the popular HOB for an upcoming Gospel Brunch!

He performed at the French Quarter Fest Gospel Stage with the popular trio Nu Beginnings and made an appearance at the Peaches music store, sang several songs from his CD and signed autographs.

He topped off the weekend as he was nominated by the Big Easy Foundation for a Big Easy Award in the category of Best Gospel Individual along with Bishop Paul Morton and to his surprise was announced the WINNER! He performed a medley with Bishop Lester Love and Kim Cherie at the annual awards ceremony and dinner.

The TLR Music Group would like to extend an invitation to those who would like to be a part of the live taping of Jai Reed's second single and music video, “He Touched Me.”

The taping will take place at Mount Herman Baptist Church 3512 Highway 90 W. in Avondale, LA.70094 on Monday, April 20, 2009 at 6:30 PM.

We would like all participants to come dressed in WHITE OUTFITS which means two piece white suites, (a jacket and slacks and/or white skirts.) Those who do not have two piece white outfits should come dressed in white shirts or white blouses and black pants or skirts NO EXCEPTIONS!

Bruce Knight
TLR Music Group
bknight1229@yahoo.com

MUSIC INDUSTRY VET LIONEL RIDENOUR TO MALACO: He'll head the label's new urban music division.


Jackson, Miss. --The legendary Malaco Music Group, after 40-plus successful years of making southern rhythm & blues and gospel hits, has tapped industry veteran Lionel Ridenour to head up its new Urban Music Division.

The Urban Division will bring a mix of established and new cutting edge talent from the worlds of Hip Hop and R&B to the legendary soul, blues and Gospel label.

"We are excited about branching out into new territory with our Urban Music Division and Lionel Ridenour was our first choice to helm this project," said Tommy Couch, President of Malaco. He brings with him to Malaco, 20 years of working with the best that Hip Hop and R&B have to offer. We look forward to working with Lionel and the talented new artists that he will be escorting through our doors."

Under his deal with Malaco, Ridenour will also focus on bringing the industry's hottest new urban independent labels to the Music Division. "Our plan is to create a new home for established independent labels as well as provide guidance to new labels," says Ridenour. "Our division is geared up and our team is ready to provide not only distribution but national urban marketing and promotion."

Ridenour comes to Malaco with a long history in the industry. He stepped into the business as an entrepreneur in 1987, with the successful L.A.-based street promotion company, Mainframe Promotion, of which he was co-owner.

Understanding the value of grass roots level outreach, Capitol Records brought Ridenour in-house. Ridenour and his partner were the first in-house street team to ever be hired by a major label, starting a new trend in music marketing. At Capitol he worked with such talent as MC Hammer, MC Ren, Mello Man Ace and Mantronics.

In 1993, Ridenour was named Sr. National Director of Promotion at Arista Records in New York during a time when the label was at the top of its game. He worked closely with industry veteran and label President Clive Davis on projects from stellar artists like Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin, while also working alongside music mogul L.A. Reid and his La Face Records on releases from multi-platinum stars Outkast, Usher, Toni Braxton, Monica, TLC, Pink and Baby Face.

When Sean "Diddy" Combs made the decision to bring his new Bad Boy Record label to Arista, it was Lionel Ridenour who sat down with him and Clive Davis to map out a plan for their now classic 4X platinum first release, "Ready to Die," from rapper Notorious B.I.G. Chart topping hits from Craig Mack, Faith Evans, 112, Total and, then named, Puff Daddy followed. Ridenour was named Executive Vice President of the company in 2000.

Moving on to Virgin Records as Executive Vice President of Urban Music in 2003, Ridenour was instrumental in the careers of such talents as Janet Jackson, Outkast, Jermaine Dupri, Lenny Kravitz and Dem Franchize Boyz as well as the label venture, Purple Ribbon, from Outkast member Big Boi.

D. A. Johnson, Malaco executive states, "The Malaco Music Group houses the largest and oldest Gospel music catalog in the world with Savoy Records, Malaco Records, Muscle Shoals Sound Records and Atlanta International Records. We are also the home of many of the icons of Rhythm and Blues such as the late Johnnie Taylor, Little Milton, Tyrone Davis, and Bobby "Blue"Bland who is still working today. It was only a matter of time before we would utilize our 40+ years of record business experience to incorporate the Hip Hop & Rap genre. The addition of Lionel solidifies us as a major player in the Hip Hop and Rap game."

Lionel Ridenour comes to Malaco from the New York-based MusicWerks Online, of which he was co-owner. Established in January of 2008, MusicWerks is a one-stop for music business services including distribution, online marketing, promotion and A&R, and is run by top veterans and tastemakers in the industry who are plugged in to all entertainment related new ideas and upcoming trends. ~EURweb

source:
Burton Doss
Malaco Records
bdoss@malaco.com

Friday, April 17, 2009

“IT AIN’T OVER” VIDEO WORLD PREMIERE ON THE GOSPEL MUSIC CHANNEL

The Malaco Music Group invites you to experience an historic television event this Sunday, April 19, 2009 on The Gospel Music Channel.

“It Ain’t Over” (Until God Says It’s Over), the first ever concept video for two time Stellar Award winner, Atlanta International Records (Air Gospel) recording artist Maurette Brown Clark will make its “world premiere” debut on The Gospel Music Channel.

The “world premiere” will take place immediately following the 3 pm (est) Sunday afternoon movie, approximately 5:15 pm. (Check local listing)

“It Ain’t Over” (Until God Says It’s Over) is Ms. Clark’s 2nd consecutive R&R /Billboard & Mediabase Top 5 song, from her CD “The Dream.”

You don’t want to miss this!!!

Set your VCR, DVR or TIVO!

“The Dream” is available In Stores, iTUNES, or log on to www.malaco.com

Queen Emily in the studio


This week has been very eventful for Malaco. We have been honored to have Queen Emily from America's Got Talent in the studio working on her latest album. She recently signed to Malaco / Waldoxy and has been here all week. Joining her on this album are the renowned Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section (Jimmy Johnson on guitar, David Hood on bass, Clayton Ivey on keyboard). Lending their talent on guitar was Reggie Young and James Robertson on drums. This all star line-up came out strong and this is going to be a great album.

House Wife Hotline

Be sure to tune in to Southern Soul Radio (www.southernsoulradio.com) Monday - Friday from 12:00 - 2:00pm CST for the very popular House Wife Hotline hosted by DJ Outlaw. The House Wife Hotline is designed with house wives in mind to get their groove on each and every day. You can also have the House Wife Hotline dedicated to you and only you. To do this, simply E-Mail DJ Outlaw at outlaw@southernsoulradio.com. The House Wife Hotline is part of the "At Work Network" that comes to you Monday - Friday from 11:00am - 3:00pm CST hosted by DJ Outlaw only on Southern Soul Radio (www.southernsoulradio.com). Changing the sound of Soul!

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Dallas Rap Artist B-Hamp Takes Over The Music Scene

From the streets of Dallas to television screens nationwide B-Hamp AKA B Dash is making lots of noise throughout the country. His album entitled, B Dash, will be released May 19th, 2009 through Malaco Music Group.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) April 15, 2009 -- Dallas based rapper B-Hamp or B Dash as he is also known, is making major moves in the music industry. With his breakout single, 'Do The Ricky Bobby', Hamp has struck a cord with youngsters, teenagers as well as college kids. Not only is the single a huge hit but, the dance that Hamp choreographed to accompany it has been duplicated by teens and the like. Simply searching youtube.com will give anyone the idea of the impact this smash hit is having across the country. Videos of sorority girls, kids in their backyards, even Grambling State University all doing the Ricky Bobby dance are popping up everywhere.

B-Hamp got his break after putting out several mixtapes with the groups Texxxas Made and 20 20 Clique. It was the song 'Work Your Shoulders' that birthed 'Do The Ricky Bobby' and in the track Hamp say, "do the Ricky Bobby and we all do the same thing". People started asking what the Ricky Bobby was and Hamp was urged to explain it time and time again. He finally decided to create an entire song around that verse. Knowing Rickey Booker, CEO of Dallas based record label CKB Entertainment, he took the track over to the label to see what they thought. Within a week Hamp had 2 shows, signed a deal with CKB Entertainment and was on his way to recording his first album.

The album entitled, B Dash, will be released on May 19th, 2009 through Malaco Music Group. They are best known for their work in Gospel and Blues and B-Hamp is their first hiphop artist to sign a distribution deal with the company. B-Hamp's release is the first for Malaco's new division, which is being headed up by industry veteran Lionel Ridenour, who has run the urban divisions for majors like Arista, Capitol, BMG and others. Ridenour hopes to push B-Hamp's southern hit nationwide, after the track and the dance instructions received more than 1.3 million views on YouTube. Tremendous success of the first single also prompted a video which, recently debuted on BET's 106 & Park. The second single off the album features production from Daron Jones of the R&B group 112 and is titled, 'Put You On'. Daron also adds his voice to this soon to be smash ballad.

B-Hamp is just coming off a tour with Joe Francis' Girls Gone Wild and is preparing to continue touring the US this Spring and Summer. 'Do The Ricky Bobby' is also taking off overseas with radio stations adding the track to their rotation and Hamp is slated to tour Europe in late Summer.

Hamp has been featured in Enterainment Weekly, XXL, The Dallas Observer, Allhiphop.com to mention a few publications and the video is in rotation on BET, Music Choice and MTV Jams.

###

CONTACT INFORMATION
CJ Robinson
Tsunami Group Inc
856-269-9518
Email us Here
http://www.prweb.com/emailmember.php?prid=2321024

Derryl Williams
Cold Frunt
817-829-6653
Email us Here
http://www.prweb.com/emailmember.php?prid=2321024&e=1

Keisa Brown Collection


"I've Been Lonely For So Long," the first song on Keisa Brown's collection on Malaco Records, hit me hard the first time I heard it. Still, I had a strange feeling that I'd heard it before.

No wonder. The arrangement for Brown's rendition of the tune is almost exactly the same as the Stax Records version Frederick Knight recorded 40 years ago. That's all right, though, because Knight produced Brown's album and sang back-up on it. In fact, he wrote all 10 songs. Besides, Brown's vocals are so full and sensuous that she could have sung nursery rhymes and they would have sounded sexy.

Keisa Brown reminds me a bit of Shirley Brown, especially her spoken word introductions to several of the songs. I could live without some of the slick production, but Brown's voice cuts through it with a husky earnestness.

Highlights include "I'm Still in Love With You," "Fly on the Wall" and "Your Love is So Good."
~ Cahl's Juke Joint: A rock, blues and jazz blog

BEAT DADDYS RELEASE CLASSIC BLUES-ROCK CD

You walk into a roadhouse or casino in Anywhere U.S.A., or wipe the bar-be-que sauce off your fingers as you find a seat at a big-stage outdoor music festival, or push your way into a crowded blues club and order a beer. What you want to hear is some smokin’ blues-rock -- a fast-paced boogie romp one minute and soaring slide-guitar slow-dancing grind-your-hips-together blues the next, with lyrics to make you cry in your drink on some songs and yell with delight at others. You are hoping a band like The Beat Daddys takes the stage.

The next best thing to hearing The Beat Daddys onstage is to listen to their sixth album, Five Moons, which contains a dozen original “instant classic” blues numbers from this hard-working, constantly-touring, highly-entertaining band. Recordings by The Beat Daddys are available at their website (beatdaddys.com), at leading online webstores (amazon.com and cdbaby.com), and at internet digital download locations including iTunes.com.

The Beat Daddys are led by founder, lead singer, rhythm guitarist and chief songwriter Larry Grisham, who has fronted the band since 1986. Grisham also has played with blues singer Mighty Sam McClain (on tour), Bobby Blue Bland (in the studio) and guitarist Tom Britt (Vince Gill, Patty Loveless); and has jammed with James Cotton, Doyle Bramhall Sr., Buddy Miles, Anson Funderburgh and Sam Myers. Lead guitarist for The Beat Daddys is Britt Meacham (also playing slide guitar), who is best-known nationally for his guitar-work on Bob Seger’s classic hit “Old Time Rock & Roll.” Meacham also was a member of recording acts Jackson Highway and Storm, toured with Little Milton, recorded with Rickey Medlocke and Blackfoot, and jammed with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Traffic and Dire Straits.

The bassist on Five Moons is Barry Bays, who has played with John Mohead, Shawn Lane, Jeff Healey, Bobby Whitlock and Jim Dickinson. Drummer Paul Scott has toured in the bands Dixie Grey and The Forrester Sisters. Special guest keyboardist Johnny Neel has played with the Allman Brothers, The Dickey Betts Band, Rick Vito (Fleetwood Mac), Allen Woody and Matt Abts (both with Gov’t Mule), Marc Ford (Black Crowes), Berry Oakley Jr. and Blue Floyd. Other guests on the CD are bassist and engineer Dennis Gulley (Jackson Highway, Alabama, The Moffatts) and drummer David Parks (LoCash Cowboys, Van-Dells).

The Beat Daddys currently onstage are Grisham, Meacham, Scott and Jon Rochner (Marty Brown). Sometimes the band includes a keyboardist (most often Johnny Neel), various female backing vocalists, or a full horn section. In addition, occasionally Grisham will play a solo show or songwriter’s showcase, and sometimes Grisham and Meacham will perform as an acoustic duo. The Beat Daddys have toured through every state in the U.S.A., Europe, Greenland, Iceland, Asia, Japan and the South Pacific. Among the many festivals they have played are the Medgar Evers Homecoming Festival in Mississippi (five years in a row), the Janis Joplin Birthday Bash in Texas (14 years), the Tucson Blues Festival, and BayFest in Mobile, Alabama. They have appeared on concert bills with B.B. King, Johnny Winter, Koko Taylor, Robert Cray, Tower of Power, Indigenous, ZZ Top and hundreds of other top acts.

Larry Grisham started writing songs in grade school, became drummer at age 12 and a guitarist when he was 14. His grandmother’s cousin was the famous finger-picking guitarist Merle Travis. Larry had a transient childhood (17 different schools) in places such as Evansville, Indiana (where he was born), Detroit, Michigan (elementary school) and the tiny town of Cloverport, Kentucky (high school). His earliest musical influence was church music followed by his mother’s record collection (Ray Charles, Dinah Washington), but soon he was listening to Elvis followed by The Beatles, The Yardbirds and The Rolling Stones. Larry, who at six-foot-five-inches-tall is a big presence onstage, received a basketball scholarship to Lander University in South Carolina, but left after the first year to be a fulltime professional musician.

Grisham joined the bands Stillwell (he worked with guitarist Tommy Stillwell for many years), Mere Image and The Phonz (which recorded a four-song mini-LP and the album Failure to Communicate for Limp Dog Records). Larry also co-owned and managed his own club in Indiana for several years (“which taught me the business side of the music business”). Grisham’s influences expanded over the years as he further explored the blues through Cream, John Mayall, Peter Green and early Fleetwood Mac, Albert King, Muddy Waters, Freddie King and Lonnie Mack. Grisham lived for many years in the town of Pass Christian on the Mississippi coast (about 60 miles from New Orleans) until it was devastated by Hurricane Katrina. He now lives in the country outside of Nashville.

The Beat Daddys recorded their first album, Houserocking Rhythm & Blues on Camelot Records, at TRC Studio in Indianapolis with guest keyboardist John Cassella (John Mellencamp, Duke Tumatoe). The success of the record (14 original tunes plus songs by B.B. King and Johnny Winter) led to their signing with top blues/R&B label Waldoxy/Malaco Records in the United States. The band’s music also has been released on other labels in Canada, Europe and Australia. Their second recording is titled No, We Ain’t From Clarksdale (taken from a lyric in Larry’s tune, “The Delta Song”). Recorded at the infamous Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in Alabama, the album featured special guests the Muscle Shoals Horns and saxophonist Jim Horn.

The third CD, South to Mississippi, was recorded at the same studio with members of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section (also known as “The Swampers”) – Jimmy Johnson, Roger Hawkins, David Hood and Clayton Ivey. One tune off that album, “How Blue Must I Get,” got extensive airplay after it was chosen by Dan Akroyd as his “Elwood Blues Brother’s Pick Hit” for The House of Blues Radio Show. The Beat Daddys then recorded a concert in Mississippi and released their Live album that included Britt Meacham for the first time along with Lewis Ross (Wet Willie) on drums. The Delta Vision CD was recorded in Florida at Kingsnake Studios and included “Ten Pounds of Love,” a duet with Sonny Rhodes that got heavy airplay on Direct TV’s Blues Channel. Another special guest was Bob Greenlee (Root Boy Slim) on bass. The CD went Top 15 on the prestigious Living Blues Magazine’s album chart. Songs by The Beat Daddys also have appeared on various compilation albums including Good Whiskey Blues, Southern Shades of Blue, Z. Zelebration: A Tribute to Z.Z. Hill and Malaco: The Last Soul Company.

Grisham’s songwriting influences not only include blues and rock’n’roll, but many other genres including country, folk and Americana. Grisham has had two of his tunes covered by Dorothy Moore and one recorded by Little Milton. In recent years, Larry has been listening to songwriters such as Tony Joe White, Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham, Russell Smith, Lucinda Williams and Brad Paisley; and Grisham also has been inspired by vocalists including Bob Seger, Delbert McClinton, Steve Earle, Jimmy Hall and Alison Krauss.

Five Moons, which took five months to record, is Southern blues-rock at its best with the emphasis on blues. As you would expect, many of the lyrics have to do with relationship problems and heartache – the searing “Pale White Circle” (“that place on your finger when you take the ring off”), the slow’n’soulful “Bad Streak” (“instead of holding the bad things against me, let’s remember the good times”), and the acoustic-building-to-an-electric-climax “Lonely Road” (“about the blue-eyed vixen who broke my heart and robbed my soul”). There are the games-lovers-play tunes “Where Is She” (classic electric blues) and “Five Moons” (featuring both Larry and Britt on acoustic guitars). Larry explores humor with “Big Thighs” (“I’m a big man and I enjoy a big woman”) and the sadness of a homeless person on “She Goes Down” (“you can see them sliding on that downward spiral”).

“We play blues because the music is a universal language that everyone can feel and understand,” explains Grisham. As I say in one of my songs, ‘Blues is the common ground.’ Everybody feels blue at one time or another, so everyone can relate to the music. I wrote another song about the importance of the blues in our lives and I called it ‘Everybody Needs Some.’ It’s also a primal thing. I dare you to listen to the blues and keep your head from bobbing or your feet from tapping. Blues music gets in the blood and you can’t stop it.”

PR AGENCY: THE CREATIVE SERVICE COMPANY (CreatServ9@aol.com)
4360 Emerald Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80918 * 719-548-9872

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

DOROTHY NORWOOD "50 YEARS: IT'S BEEN WORTH IT ALL" IN STORES NOW!!!

50 Years: It's Been Worth It All by the Gospel living legend, The World's Greatest Storyteller, Dorothy Norwood is finally In Stores!!!

Millions have heard the power packed re-recording of one of the greatest congregational hymns of all time, Victory Is Mine (Obama Mix) backed by 2009 Stellar Award Nominee Ricky Dillard & New G being played on Gospel and Urban radio stations alike, leading up to the historic election, on election day, and on the day of the inauguration in honor of President Barack Obama.

Now you can bring home Victory Is Mine and the new foot stompin', hand clappin', get out of your seat single, "I Wanna Go" both taken from her latest release 50 Years: It's Been Worth It All. If that weren't enough, a 2009 "Live" version of Denied Mother also appears as a bonus track.

I Wanna Go single was mailed nationally to radio stations so be sure to stay tuned to your favorite station to be amongst the firsts to hear it debut in your area.

Nothing short of a living legend, Dorothy Norwood has been entertaining, preaching, uplifting, mentoring, writing, and producing for more than fifty years.

Dorothy Norwood officially began her gospel career in 1956, singing with Mahalia Jackson, Reverend James Cleveland, and with one of the greatest female gospel groups of all time, The Caravans, founded by The Queen Of Gospel, Albertina Walker.

In 1960, she launched her solo career with Savoy Records, recording her first album, Johnny and Jesus in 1964. This release was quickly followed by Denied Mother in 1965, earning Norwood the title, "The World's Greatest Storyteller." Both projects certified gold. All total, five albums reached gold status. 1971, she recorded Live with the GMWA Mass Choir of Northern California; Live reached #1 on the Billboard Charts. To her credit, she has also had three top ten gospel albums and been in the top forty fourteen times (Billboard).

In 1972, she became an unlikely opening act for the Rolling Stones' national tour with Mick Jagger. By 2000, Ms. Norwood was nominated for the Lady of Soul Award for her album, The Lord is a Wonder. She followed that nomination with two more at the 2001 Dove Awards for Ole Rickety Bridge (Traditional Album of the Year) and "There's Got To Be Rain" (Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year).

Honor this Gospel Legend with your support!!!
~As seen in Black Gospel Promo

Click here to purchase!

Monday, April 13, 2009

REV. TIMOTHY WRIGHT – “THE GODFATHER OF GOSPEL” IN STORES MAY 5

Over the past few months, millions of people watched the 2009 Stellar Awards, witnessed the incredible tribute medley performed by Kirk Franklin, Mynra Summers, and Rev. Milton Biggham that showed the world why Rev. Timothy Wright is affectionately known as “The Godfather Of Gospel.”

Continuing the celebratory spirit of the music ministry of Rev. Timothy Wright, Savoy Records & The Malaco Music Group is proud to release, “The Godfather Of Gospel.” (In Stores May 5, 2009)

“The Godfather Of Gospel” is a 18 track collection of songs which highlights favorites throughout Rev. Wright’s multiple decade musical recording career. Featured are the songs, “Trouble Don’t Last Always”, “Who’s On The Lord’s Side” and “We’re Going To Make It” featuring Myrna Summers which were all performed during the 2009 Stellar Awards show presentation; In addition, “We’re Going To Make It” has never been available on CD before.

Be sure to stay tuned to your favorite local radio station to be amongst the firsts to hear two exclusive radio edits of songs taken from “The Godfather of Gospel;” The uplifting, Praise Dance Ministry anthem “Let’s Celebrate” (He Has Risen) & the powerful, heartfelt, “Praise and Worship” song ,“I Feel The Lord In This Place.”

Join with us as we celebrate the man that has dedicated his life to The Gospel and the Gospel music industry, Rev. Timothy Wright!

Funeral Arrangements for Pop Winans

TUESDAY, APRIL 14TH

7:00 p.m. - Memorial Service/Viewing
Perfecting Church
7616 E. Nevada
Detroit, MI 48234
(313) 365-3787

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15TH

10:00a.m. - Homegoing Celebration Service
Perfecting Church
7616 E. Nevada
Detroit, MI 48234
(313) 365-3787

MCFALL BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME

9419 Dexter Ave
Detroit, MI 48206
(313) 895-8900

* Flowers will be received at this location

DOROTHY NORWOOD’S '50 YEARS: ITS BEEN WORTH IT ALL' STORES NOW: World’s greatest storyteller back with new CD on Malaco Records.


Millions have heard the power packed re-recording of one of the greatest congregational hymns of all time, “Victory Is Mine” (Obama Mix) backed by 2009 Stellar Award nominee Ricky Dillard & New G being played on Gospel and Urban radio stations alike, leading up to the historic election, on election day, and on the day of the inauguration in honor of President Barack Obama.

Now you can bring home “Victory Is Mine" and the new foot stompin’, hand clappin’, get out of your seat single, “I Wanna Go.” Both tracks are taken from her latest release “50 Years: It’s Been Worth It All.” If that wasn’t enough, a 2009 “Live” version of “Denied Mother” also appears as a bonus track.

Nothing short of a living legend, Dorothy Norwood has been entertaining, preaching, uplifting, mentoring, writing, and producing for more than fifty years. She officially began her Gospel career in 1956, singing with Mahalia Jackson, Reverend James Cleveland, and with one of the greatest female Gospel groups of all time, The Caravans, founded by the queen of Gospel, Albertina Walker.

In 1960, she launched her solo career with Savoy Records, recording her first album. In 1972, she became an unlikely opening act for the Rolling Stones’ national tour with Mick Jagger and by 2000, Ms. Norwood was nominated for the Lady of Soul Award for her album, “The Lord is a Wonder.” She followed that nomination with two more at the 2001 Dove Awards for “Ole Rickety Bridge” (Traditional Album of the Year) and “There’s Got to Be Rain” (Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year).

In 2005, Norwood won the Soul Train Lady of Soul Award for “Stand on the Word” and was inducted into the International Gospel Music Hall of Fame twice for her work as a solo artist, as well as that with The Caravans. The American Quartet Hall of Fame also inducted The Caravans in 2006 and Norwood reunited with the group to produce what would become a Billboard chart topping album, “Paved the Way” (Malaco). “Paved The Way” also garnered nominations in every major industry award group including the Grammies, Doves, Stellars, and Soul Train.

For nearly every year of her professional career singing Gospel music, Dorothy Norwood has recorded an album. ~EURWeb

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Pop Winans Dead at Age 76


David "Pop" Winans Sr., the patriarchal gospel great, has died. He was 76. His family released a statement Wednesday that Winans had died quietly while in hospice in Nashville, Tenn., with wife Delores at his bedside.

Lovingly referred to as Mom and Pop Winans, the deeply rooted Detroit couple crafted an impressive career that later extended to their children and grandchildren. Michael, Marvin, Carvin and Ronald performed in the Grammy winning quartet The Winans while duo BeBe and CeCe Winans blazed their own path with songs such as "Addictive Love."

The family's music legacy also helped establish the city as the gospel capital of the world. "He was a person who loved Jesus through sickness and health," said gospel singer Vickie Winans, who was married to Pop Winans' son Marvin. "To see him sick was the worst thing but he kept on lifting up the name of Jesus. I loved him with all my heart."

Pop Winans' health took a turn for the worst late last year. He suffered a series of four strokes, seizures and a heart attack beginning in the fall of 2008 and was admitted to Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak on Sept. 30.

"The Winans Family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers and continued support, but would appreciate privacy at this time," the family said in a written statement.

Memorial services are planned for April 14 and 15 at Perfecting Church in Detroit where Marvin Winans is the senior pastor.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Malaco Music Group Set to Release Hip Hop Hit "Do the Ricky Bobby" from B-Hamp

Malaco Music Group is set to release the YouTube.com hit "Do the Ricky Bobby" from Dallas rapper B-Hamp. The song has become a Southern Hip Hop anthem since hitting airwaves, mixtapes and the Internet. At the request of his many fans, B-Hamp released a Ricky Bobby Instructional Dance Video that has become a hit on YouTube.com with more than 1.3 million views to date! Fans across the country have been logging on to youtube.com to hear "Do the Ricky Bobby" and learn B-Hamp's Ricky Bobby dance.

B-Hamps inspiration for the song came from actor/comedian Will Ferrell's portrayal of Ricky Bobby in the 2006 film "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby." B-Hamp wrote the song the day after seeing the comedy.

All the buzz on the Internet about "Do the Ricky Bobby" also caught the attention of the national entertainment magazine Entertainment Weekly which featured instructions on how to "Do the Ricky Bobby" in their "Music News" section. The story also highlighted the songs huge popularity with both Will Ferrell fans and fans of Hip Hop music.

"Do the Ricky Bobby" is the first single from B-Hamp's upcoming album "B Dash" due out May 5, 2009.

Brandon Hampton, a self-proclaimed class-clown, was dubbed B-Hamp for short after his first single "Two Piece" hit radio and mixtapes during his short time with the Dallas-based rap group Texxxas Made. The original version of "Do the Ricky Bobby" came from a verse on the single, "Work Your Shoulders," from the Dallas hip hop group 20 20 Clique which featured B-Hamp. After watching "Talladega Nights," B-Hamp decided to expand his one verse into an entire song inspired by the film. That song became "Do the Ricky Bobby."

When asked how he came up with the dance, B-Hamp responds: "I took the first moves that came to mind when thinking about the movie "Talladega Nights." You wave your arms in the dance like at a car race or driving a race car. The dip part in the dance is like rolling a wheel chair, like when Ricky Bobby was in a wheel chair, and I also wanted to make it easy so everyone could do it!"

B-Hamp's "Do the Ricky Bobby" will be the first Hip Hop project to be released from Malaco Music Group's through its new Urban Music Division. Malaco Music Group, a legendary maker of southern rhythm & blues and gospel hits for more than 40 years, opened its Urban Music Division earlier this year. The Division is headed up by urban music veteran Lionel Ridenour.

"Our plan is to create a new home for established independent labels as well as provide guidance to new labels," said Ridenour. "Our division is geared up and our team is ready to provide not only distribution but national urban marketing and promotion."

B-Hamp's upcoming full length CD "B Dash" will be the first Hip Hop CD to be released by Malaco in conjunction with the Dallas-based independent Hip Hop label, CKB Entertainment, to which B-Hamp is signed.

# # #
Hype Press Update

Posted by thehypemagazine at 1:48 PM

Shirley Brown at Number 1 on the Charts

According to Blues Critic, Shirley Brown is number 1 on the charts with Willie Clayton at number 3 (up from number 7), Marvin Sease at number 7 (up from number 9) and Chuck Strong is at number 9 (down from number 2).

To view the full chart listing, click here.

Maurette Brown Clark News

Maurette Brown Clark's latest single "It Ain't Over" continues to rise on the charts. Cashbox has it at Number 5. Check it out here.

On other charts she is listed at #6

This Week's Top 10 Gospel Songs
(According to the Gospel National Airplay Chart)

1. "Souled Out" Hezekiah Walker & LFC (four weeks at no. 1)
2. "I Trust You" James Fortune & FIYA
3. "Back II Eden" Donald Lawrence & Co.
4. "Peace & Favor Rest On Us" Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers
5. "Praise Him In Advance" Marvin Sapp
6. "It Ain't Over (Until GOD Says It's Over)" Maurette Brown-Clark
7. "My Name Is Victory" Jonathan Nelson feat. Purpos
8. "Get Up" Mary Mary
9. "Cover Me" 21:03 feat. Fred Hammond
10. "Praise Me Now" Kierra Sheard

Friday, April 3, 2009

American Blues Network Top 10 Playlist April 4, 2009

Malaco is proud to announce that it has 3 songs in the Top 10 on the American Blues Network playlist as of April 4, 2009

Last This Artist Title Label
Week Week

1 1 Shirley Brown - Upside Down - Malaco

2 2 JOUS Band - What You Gonna Do - Tuskk

1 3 Barbara Carr - It’s Only You - CDS

4 4 Ricky White & Betty Padgett - Come Back Home - Brimstone

7 5 Archie Love - Help Me Get That Woman - Right Now

3 6 Black John - Holiday Inn - Electo Groove

8 7 Willie Clayton - Body Talk - Malaco

6 8 Nellie Travis - Don’t Talk to Me - CDS

9 9 The Revelations - I Don’t Want to Know - Decision

11 10 Mel Waiters - Everything Going Up - Waldoxy

What Dorothy Norwood Said………….

According to an article in the Sun News, gospel music artist Dorothy Norwood said that some record companies forbid gospel artists to use the name of God on their tracks. She said that is not the kind of company she would want to be affiliated with.

Good for her. All gospel artists should have that kind of conviction. If you are going to be called a gospel artist, you have to walk the talk.

Here is more of what the gospel music legend had to say:
Gospel has really grown by leaps and bounds,” Norwood said. “Gospel isn’t going nowhere.” Some gospel lovers believe contemporary gospel is too secular, but Norwood said she believes contemporary gospel has its place.

“I always tell people there are different strokes for different folks,” Norwood said. “I don’t have anything against contemporary gospel music, although I don’t sing it. However, there is some of it that you have to stop listening and wonder if it’s really gospel music.”

Dorothy Norwood will be in concert on Saturday along with The McDonald Sisters. It will be held February 28th at the Mason Temple Church of God in Christ in Conway, NC. There is no cost and you can contact Reggie Dyson at 340-7927 or 450-3091 for more info. ~ Dominique www.1800gospel.com

Celebrating 50 Years in the Gospel Music Biz with Dorothy Norwood

Wow, it’s been 50 years in the gospel music biz for Dorothy Norwood! She started her gospel career in 1956, singing with Mahalia Jackson, Reverend James Cleveland, and The Caravans. That’s a long time, ya’ll!

Her latest CD, Fifty Years: It’s Been Worth It All, is now available for purchase.

50 Years: It’s Been Worth It All by the Gospel living legend, The World’s Greatest Storyteller, Dorothy Norwood is finally in Stores!!! Nothing short of a living legend, Dorothy Norwood has been entertaining, preaching, uplifting, mentoring, writing, and producing for more than fifty years.

In 1960, she launched her solo career with Savoy Records, recording her first album, Johnny and Jesus in 1964. This release was quickly followed by Denied Mother in 1965, earning Norwood the title, “The World’s Greatest Storyteller.” Both projects certified gold.

In 1971, she recorded Live with the GMWA Mass Choir of Northern California; Live reached #1 on the Billboard Charts.
In 1972, she became an unlikely opening act for the Rolling Stones’ national tour with Mick Jagger.

In 2005, Norwood won the Soul Train Lady of Soul Award for Stand on the Word, and was inducted into the International Gospel Music Hall of Fame twice; for her work as a solo artist as well as that with The Caravans.

The American Quartet Hall of Fame also inducted The Caravans in 2006 and Norwood reunited with the group to produce what would become a Billboard chart topping album, Paved The Way (Malaco). Paved The Way also garnered nominations in every major industry award group including the Grammies, Doves, Stellars, and Soul Train. Malaco Music Group. ~Dominique www.1800gospel.com

Malaco Music Group Set to Release Hip Hop Hit "Do the Ricky Bobby" from B-Hamp

The “Do the Ricky Bobby” Instructional Dance Video has received more than 1.3 million hits on YouTube.com to date Jackson, Miss. - March 16, 2009 – Malaco Music Group is set to release the YouTube.com hit “Do the Ricky Bobby” from Dallas rapper B-Hamp. The song has become a Southern Hip Hop anthem since hitting airwaves, mixtapes and the Internet….
~ Heist, Spanish Hip Hop

Malaco Music Group Set to Release Hip Hop Hit "Do the Ricky Bobby" from B-Hamp

The "Do the Ricky Bobby" Instructional Dance Video has received more than 1.3 million hits on YouTube.com to date

Jackson, Miss. - March 16, 2009 – Malaco Music Group is set to release the YouTube.com hit "Do the Ricky Bobby" from Dallas rapper B-Hamp. The song has become a Southern Hip Hop anthem since hitting airwaves, mixtapes and the Internet. At the request of his many fans, B-Hamp released a Ricky Bobby Instructional Dance Video that has become a hit on YouTube.com with more than 1.3 million views to date! Fans across the country have been logging on to youtube.com to hear "Do the Ricky Bobby" and learn B-Hamp's Ricky Bobby dance.

B-Hamps inspiration for the song came from actor/comedian Will Ferrell's portrayal of Ricky Bobby in the 2006 film "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby." B-Hamp wrote the song the day after seeing the comedy.

All the buzz on the Internet about "Do the Ricky Bobby" also caught the attention of the national entertainment magazine Entertainment Weekly which featured instructions on how to "Do the Ricky Bobby" in their "Music News" section. The story also highlighted the songs huge popularity with both Will Ferrell fans and fans of Hip Hop music.

"Do the Ricky Bobby" is the first single from B-Hamp's upcoming album "B Dash" due out May 5, 2009.

Brandon Hampton, a self-proclaimed class-clown, was dubbed B-Hamp for short after his first single "Two Piece" hit radio and mixtapes during his short time with the Dallas-based rap group Texxxas Made. The original version of "Do the Ricky Bobby" came from a verse on the single, "Work Your Shoulders," from the Dallas hip hop group 20 20 Clique which featured B-Hamp. After watching "Talladega Nights," B-Hamp decided to expand his one verse into an entire song inspired by the film. That song became "Do the Ricky Bobby."

When asked how he came up with the dance, B-Hamp responds: "I took the first moves that came to mind when thinking about the movie "Talladega Nights." You wave your arms in the dance like at a car race or driving a race car. The dip part in the dance is like rolling a wheel chair, like when Ricky Bobby was in a wheel chair, and I also wanted to make it easy so everyone could do it!"

B-Hamp's "Do the Ricky Bobby" will be the first Hip Hop project to be released from Malaco Music Group's through its new Urban Music Division. Malaco Music Group, a legendary maker of southern rhythm & blues and gospel hits for more than 40 years, opened its Urban Music Division earlier this year. The Division is headed up by urban music veteran Lionel Ridenour.

"Our plan is to create a new home for established independent labels as well as provide guidance to new labels," said Ridenour. "Our division is geared up and our team is ready to provide not only distribution but national urban marketing and promotion."

B-Hamp's upcoming full length CD "B Dash" will be the first Hip Hop CD to be released by Malaco in conjunction with the Dallas-based independent Hip Hop label, CKB Entertainment, to which B-Hamp is signed.

# # #

donna torrence
mediasavvy pr, inc
201.854.7082
donna@mediasavvypr.com
www.mediasavvypr.com

Thursday, April 2, 2009

B-Hamp's 'Ricky Bobby' Dance Goes Nationwide


Dallas rapper B-Hamp is set to take his track and dance “Do the Ricky Bobby” national via a new record deal with the CKB Entertainment/Malaco Music Group.

B-Hamp, born Brandon Hampton, recently signed with Malaco’s urban division off the strength of “Ricky Bobby.”

The dance and song is being played in numerous clubs throughout the south.

B-Hamp’s release is the first for Malaco’s new division, which is being headed up by industry veteran Lionel Ridenour, who has run the urban divisions for majors like Arista, Capitol, BMG and others.

According to Ridenour, Malaco is aggressively seeking new artists and labels to distribute.

“Our plan is to create a new home for established independent labels as well as provide guidance to new labels,” Ridenour told AllHipHop.com. “Our division is geared up and our team is ready to provide not only distribution but national urban marketing and promotion.”

Ridenour hopes to push B-Hamp’s southern hit nationwide, after the track and the dance instructions received more than 1.3 million views on YouTube.

B-Hamp created the track and accompanying dance just one day after viewing Will Ferrell portraying the character Ricky Bobby in 2006’s flick Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.

“I took the first moves that came to mind when thinking about the movie Talladega Nights, B-Hamp explained. “You wave your arms in the dance like at a car race or driving a race car. The dip part in the dance is like rolling a wheel chair, like when Ricky Bobby was in a wheel chair, and I also wanted to make it easy so everyone could do it!”

“Do the Ricky Bobby” is the first single from B-Hamp’s upcoming album B Dash, which is due in stores May 5.

By Roman Wolfe ~ AllHipHop.com