Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” album to be launched at Imation’s ‘Green Fierce’ event on May 28!

Imation, a world leader in providing digital storage products, gears up for the final stage of Green Fierce (Wham Up The Glam In Green)—a fashion design competition that makes use of recycled Imation products to create a Lady Gaga-inspired fashion statement. The Grand Finals, featuring a fashion show that will showcase the original designs of the finalists, will be held on May 28, 2011, 3:00 pm, at the Glorietta 5 Activity Center, Makati City.

Participants who joined the contest had to buy featured Imation items such as the Wired Optical Mouse, 8X External DVD Writer, 4GB and 8GB Pocket Flash Drives and Recordable CDs and DVDs. The winning fashion designer will take home P50,000 worth of Imation products, a copy of Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” album, a sash and a trophy. The winning design will also be displayed in selected Astrovision outlets.   

Be further thrilled as this momentous event also brings you the launch of Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” special edition and standard albums! Be one of the first to have a copy of these monster albums and take home an exclusive Gaga poster when you purchase an album. On top of that, if you come in your best Lady Gaga-inspired outfit, you also get the chance of winning special prizes from Imation. MCA Music’s Acoustic Asian Sensation, Sabrina will be present as special guest. 

Green Fierce is the company’s unique way of addressing the international call for businesses to be more eco-friendly, inspired by the powerful influence of global music sensation and fashion icon, Lady Gaga. This green and glamorous fashion event is presented by Imation in cooperation with MCA Music, Astroplus, Astrovision and The Drive.

Get Lady Gaga’s hottest hits and more on your cellphones!!!

Text LADYGAGA to 2346

MATTHEW MORRISON GLEEFULLY UNLEASHES HIS SOLO DEBUT ALBUM UNDER MCA MUSIC!

Millions of fans know him as Glee's eternally optimistic high school choir director Will Schuester, but MCA Music’s newest solo artist, Matthew Morrison shows you another side of that talent on his self-titled debut album, where the Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical star proves his skills as a songwriter and even at strumming a ukulele.

On the album's first single, "Summer Rain," a rhythmic reggae tune he co-wrote with Claude Kelly [Bruno Mars, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera] and hit Norwegian duo Espionage's Espen Lind and Amund Bjorklund [Train's "Hey, Soul Sister"], Morrison looks back on his twenties, when he worked his way up from a chorus line dancer to a Broadway star, remembering an idyllic tryst up on the roof somewhere in Manhattan. "That's about an ex-girlfriend of mine," he explains. "What it's like to be young, in love and in New York City without a care in the world. It's something that, when I'm 65, I'm going to look back on and think, 'That was an awesome moment.' It was actually the first song I wrote for the album."

Morrison's debut album also includes a duet with his Glee co-star Gwyneth Paltrow on a version of the classic "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," the same song he sang at the audition-learning how to play ukulele in the process-which earned him his starring role in the hit Fox TV show. "It's my favorite song of all time," says Morrison, who says this version, on which he plays ukulele, is based on the cover by Hawaiian player Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, one he also played on the final show of the first season. "I sing the prelude, which not many people do. I feel it's equally as beautiful as the rest of the song, and that's what makes it a little different." Morrison also was joined in the studio by Sting for a cover of his gospel-flavored "Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot," featuring a full-on church choir as well as Elton John for a Glee-style mash-up of "Mona Lisa and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man."

"I love this album, but this is just the beginning," he says. "I'm still figuring things out. who I am as an artist, the stories I want to tell. It's going to be a process. As proud as I am of this record, I'm looking forward to the next one and the one after that. It's going to be a nice journey." For Matthew Morrison, it already has been, with a whole new chapter to come.

Promising a mix of originals and cover, Morrison recorded tracks for the album in Los Angeles, New York City and London, and collaborated with several writers including Steve Kipner (The Script, Cheryl Cole), JC Chasez, formerly of N Sync, and Britain's Eg White (Adele, Duffy)."When I started the process, I had a vision of what I wanted it to be, and it's now completely different," he said. "I went into it wanting a Justin Timberlake-meets-Michael Buble kind of feel, but what came out of it was something more raw." With 10 eclectic tracks which include collaborations with Elton John, Sting and Gwyneth Paltrow, this album will definitely become one’s perfect soundtrack this season!

Matthew Morrison’s self-titled debut album is exclusively released under MCA Music, Inc.

Download Matthew Morrison’s hottest hit single, “Summer Rain” as a ringback tone!!!

Just text the code KJ981 and send to 2332 for Globe and Touch Mobile subscribers

Or the code SUMER and send to 2728 for Smart and Talk N’ Text subscribers

Or the code 5492057 and send to 2300 for SUN subscribers         

Tracklisting:

1.       Summer Rain

2.       Still Got Tonight

3.       Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot feat. Sting

4.       My Name

5.       Hey

6.       Somewhere Over The Rainbow feat. Gwyneth Paltrow

7.       Don’t Stop Dancing

8.       It Don’t Matter To The Sun

9.       Mona Lisas And Mad Hatters/ Rocket Man feat. Elton John

10.    It’s Over

Kiss The Bride - Stories

Kiss the Bride

These six gentlemen and have had a long-running love affair with music, playing different genres with different bands, usually performing cover music of foreign bands. While they undoubtedly enjoyed their gigs, each of them longed to play original music, to bring their love of music to a more intense and fulfilling level.  Thus, after a long ‘courtship’, the six decided to take the plunge, band together, and commit to marriage to a common bride—music that is uniquely their own.  With the blessings of friends, supporters, and fans, they are ready to embark on the next level of this love affair, and, reminiscent of the traditional culmination of the nuptial ceremony, they commit to a life dedicated to their very own music as they KISS THE BRIDE.

The music of KISS THE BRIDE is truly a marriage of hearts, minds, talents, and genres.  Defying classification, the new band’s music, which consists of original compositions, may be described as fusion yet melodic, jazz but with Latin and pop flavors, most songs devoid of lyrics but each with a story to tell.  KISS THE BRIDE promises a musical experience that will bring audiences to a deeper level of intimacy with all that they hold dear in their lives.

KISS THE BRIDE: BEYOND THE JAZZ TRADITION

By: Tinnie Esguerra

Following the road to musical nirvana isn’t something that always comes easy to jazz musicians. For most, it means a lifetime of echoing tradition, standing in the shadows of long-gone heroes who have, ironically, blazed their own paths via their own brazen acts of musical defiance.

Rare indeed is the jazz improvisor who can uncover, and ultimately channel, his truly distinct musical voice within his lifetime. A lot of so-called purists have chosen to remain shackled to stereotypes and clichés, unmindful of their own folly. But there are a few independent spirits out there who never take themselves (or jazz, for that matter) too seriously, and heed the intuitive forces that resonate within their souls.

Tony Razon is one such fiercely-independent spirit, whose prodigious pianistic chops have been honed through casual flirtations or temporary dalliances of the musical sort, whether they be full-blown jazz jams, spaced-out rock gigs, or even the occasional dance hall capers.

Through it all, he nurtured his Muse – that irresistible goddess of creativity who constantly teases, seduces or taunts with ideas so compelling that they always left indelible imprints; ideas which later on in life would be triggered and reawakened by a feeling, an image, a distant memory or even a seemingly offhand remark.

That lifelong journey finally comes full circle with Kiss The Bride, a group of talented jazz musicians who have taken upon the challenge of forging their unique musical template.

What started out as a loosely-structured quartet featuring acclaimed fusion guitar virtuoso Joey Puyat on guitar, Jobit Arguelles on drums, Kingsley delos Santos on bass, and Tony on piano soon evolved into a more cohesive unit with the recent addition of saxophonist Vince Lahorra and veteran percussionist Uly Avante. Prolific session drummer Otep Concepcion was also tapped to replace Jobit, who reluctantly left the group to pursue a different career path.

Despite the bridal reference, the band doesn’t dish out sappy heart-melting love songs. Neither do they play wedding gigs.

What they do churn out, is a hybrid style that can be rightfully called contemporary instrumental pop. It’s smooth jazz with an edge. It’s electrifying fusion interlaced with an ever-evolving rhythmic backdrop that fuses swing, bebop, Latin, Hispanic and other middle Eastern influences.

In hindsight, Tony’s compositions – forged to life by his trusty steeds – could very well have been inspired by the late night lullabies that his father, an accomplished flamenco virtuoso, used to lull him to sleep.

It’s not surprising how Tony fondly refers to his compositions as ‘Stories’ – yarns of personal vignettes and memories that he never fails to regale the crowd with during their live sets.

This is a love story like no other; an artist who has finally reaffirmed his lifelong dedication and commitment to his music; and as the wedding ritual implies, also signifies the start of a new life together, as manifested through Kiss The Bride’s potent blend of jazz that’s anything but traditional.

Jennifer Lopez Makes a Grand Comeback with the release of ‘LOVE?’ album!

International Pop Icon, Jennifer Lopez, is back! The actress, singer, American idol judge is now sexier and fiercer, as she is ready to set the world ablaze with her latest album, "Love?" According to J.Lo herself, "Love?" is one of her most personal albums up to date, branching from the inspiration of her twins, Emme and Max. The album is centered on examining and exploring the different angles and sides of love and relationships. An infectious mixture of style, beats, vocals and tantalizing compositions are bound to awaken the fans of J.Lo. 

J.Lo's latest single "On the Floor" is currently sitting at the number 1 spot of Youtube's Top 100 Music Chart. The track features reknowned rapper, Pitbull and a rendition of Kaoma's 1989 hit single, "Lambada". The single reached top-five in most countries around the world, and number one in eighteen countries. J.Lo also marked this single as her third number one single in the UK and first since "Get Right" from 2006. “On The Floor” also became an instant top hit here in the Philippines with the song cutting across radio station formats and becoming a universal song that people from all walks of life enjoy listening and dancing to!  

"Love?" deluxe edition features 16 tracks that will truly sizzle the dance floor. It includes the hit songs "On The Floor" featuring Pitbull and "Im Into you" featuring Lil Wayne. The album debuted at #5 on Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart and up to date has sold 80,305 copies!!!

Love? Indeed. Multi-threat J.Lo returns with her 8th studio album that is set to break records with party-rockin hits and explosive dance-floor themed tracks.

Get a giant limited edition J.Lo poster when you purchase “Love?” album, available in selected music outlets, brought to you by MCA Music, Inc. 

Dance to J.Lo's current hit singles on your very own phones by downloading them as your ringback tones!

SONG TITLE	GLOBE (send to 2332)	SMART (send to 2728)	SUN (send to 2300)
On The Floor feat. Pitbull	KJ829	ONJLO	5492097
I’m Into You feat. Lil Wayne	KK340	INTOU	5492429

BIEBER FEVER HITS MANILA BY STORM TO AN ASTOUNDING CROWD OF 50,000 FILIPINO FANS!

Thousands of Filipino fans anticipated the much awaited concert of the year. Months of extensive preparation and suppressed excitement paved the way for a successful one night showcase of the phenomenal YouTube sensation turned top-selling and highly-admired international artist, Justin Bieber!

At the age of 17, Bieber proved that he is worth more than 10 minutes of fame. Acclaimed for chart-topping hits and singles that reign countdowns, Bieber is bound to be bigger and more exceptional. And this has been remarkably proven and manifested during his first-ever ‘live’ concert at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds in Manila.

May 10, 2011 – Justin Bieber graced The Philippines as one of his stops for his My World Tour. Bieber’s press conference was held on the same day of the concert, which has raved pertinent media personalities as he gladly opened up and answered questions while admitting that he appreciated the overwhelming support of Filipino fans. MCA Music, Inc. (Universal Music Philippines) headed by their President, Ricky Ilacad also awarded Justin Bieber a 7x Platinum Award, by giving him a guitar-shaped plaque (specially-designed by Grassroots, Inc.,) for the massive success of his released albums: My World, My World 2.0, My Worlds, My Worlds-The Collection, Never Say Never: The Remixes.

A number of winners and lucky fans from various contests were also able to personally meet and greet Justin Bieber. To top it off, they also had their once-in-a-lifetime chance to have their photos taken with their ultimate idol. Eager screams and a festive vibe filled the atmosphere of the backstage area where these fortunate fans waited for their turn to see Bieber up-close!

May 10 was truly unforgettable for all the fans of Justin Bieber. The concert was opened by Poreotics, America’s best dance crew season 5 winner, with the following of Justin’s proud-to-be-Pinoy back-up singers, Legaci. Despite of his unwell feeling, Justin Bieber gave an all-out amazing performance that left Manila in a blanket of Bieberiffic surprises.

With the all-time #1 hit single, “Baby” topping off his concert repertoire and with over 50,000 attendees, Justin Bieber’s My World Tour in Manila 2011 capped off the Ultimate Justin Bieber experience for all the Pinoy Beliebers. 

What time is it? It's 1:43!

JIM PAREDES’ “LARO”

He is a renowned musician, producer, educator, writer, television personality, workshop facilitator, and activist. After conquering Filipino audiences as one third of the legendary group APO Hiking Society, he tries his hand being solo with his debut album entitled “Laro.”

Released under MCA Music, Jim Paredes says this about “Laro”, “I wanted to do an album out of pure joy and fun. I didn't care to find out what people were buying or listening to. It was not important to me. I wanted something honest and direct. I wanted to be free.”

Though this time there is no Danny Javier and Buboy Garovillo to record with him, he still considers his solo effort a delight to make and the “most enjoyable recording he has ever done.” 

“It's strange to record an album without my two friends. But it is exhilarating to be 100% responsible for what came out. All the songs are original. I worked with Ernie Baladjay, APO's arranger and friend of many years. Actually it wasn't work. We played,” Jim said.

The songs that make up “Laro” are “OPM Rap,” “Butong Pakwan,” “Ang Ganda Mo,” “May Araw Ka Rin,” “Sinungaling,” “Feeling Guilty,” “Libog Lang Yan,” “Lumisan Na Siya,” “In My Heart,” “Basic Love,” “Sumpa,” “Live Your Own Life,” “Mangarap at Managinip” and “Palagi-lagi.”

“Some songs were written as I did the album. Some were done more than 10 years ago. They weren't ready then. Now, they are more than ready,” Jim said.

“Laro” is now out in CDs under MCA Music.

MANNY PACQUIAO SINGS “SOMETIMES WHEN WE TOUCH”

He is a boxing champion, a congressman, an actor and a singer. There is no stopping the Filipino pride as Manny Pacquiao adds another feather on his cap with his recording “Sometimes When We Touch”.

It features its original creator and singer Dan Hill, who made the song a top 10 hit in the 70s. Artists such as Tina Turner, Tammy Wynette, Rod Stewart, Barry Manilow and Engelbert Humperdinck are among those that have covered the song. Hill was inspired to record the song with Pacquiao when he heard him sing the song during a guesting at the U.S. late night show Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Pacquiao recorded the song at Capitol Studios in Texas last year as he prepared for his fight with Antonio Margarito 

The single will be out globally before his WBO welterweight title bout in Las Vegas against Shane Mosley. Here in the Philippines, MCA Music will be releasing a CD + DVD of the recording. “Manny Pacquiao Sings Sometimes When We Touch” CD + DVD features 7 versions of the hit song plus a DVD featuring the making of the single, his recording session with Dan Hill and the official music video of Manny singing “Sometimes When We Touch.”

        “MANNY PACQUIAO sings SOMETIMES WHEN WE TOUCH” featuring Dan Hill will be out at major record stores nationwide under MCA Music. For more information on the DVD, log on to www.facebook.com/mcamusic.

The Official Recording of THE ROYAL WEDDING

Available May 2011, released by MCA Music

The Royal Wedding is without doubt the most anticipated royal event of the past 30 years, and Decca Records is recording the entire wedding ceremony, as it happens, to make it available to download across the globe on the same day.   This is the first time in the long history of such royal occasions that everything – not only every piece of music but all the readings, blessings and of course the all-important vows – will be available to be enjoyed immediately, and for all time.

The Official Album of the live recording of the event, held in Westminster Abbey on 29th April, will then be on sale in British stores and across the rest of the world from May 2011, with advance orders already in excess of 250,000 copies.

Enhancing the emotion of the occasion, the musical choices of Prince William and Catherine Middleton cover the best of British: both traditional and newly commissioned works, regal, joyous, uplifting and moving. Among Britain’s most famous composers Elgar (Pomp & Circumstance March No.5), Vaughan Williams (Rhosymedre Prelude) and Walton (Crown Imperial) are each represented, whilst Sir Hubert Parry contributes not only Jerusalem and I Was Glad (both, incidentally, heard at the 1981 Royal Wedding), but also Blest Pair of Sirens, and a march from The Birds. There is a specially- written world premiere from one of today’s most gifted and popular composers, John Rutter (This Is The Day), and – the special choice of Kate – a recently composed piece from the 35-year-old Welsh choral composer, Paul Mealor. His original work, Ubi caritas, was premiered at St Andrew’s University last year, where the couple met. Of course Mealor has had to keep this a secret, even from his family, until the moment it is actually performed at the service:

“I was deeply moved to hear that the Royal couple had enjoyed my recent composition, and am honoured and humbled to present 'Ubi caritas' for their very special day...’’

 (Paul Mealor, composer)

The performers at the ceremony include The Choir of Westminster Abbey, The Chapel Royal Choir of St James’ Palace, The London Chamber Orchestra and The Fanfare Team from the Central Band of the Royal Air Force. The Choirs will be under the direction of Mr James O’Donnell and The London Chamber Orchestra conducted by its Music Director and Principal Conductor Mr Christopher Warren-Green.

The record producer will be one of the world's most experienced, Anna Barry.  Grammy-nominated Ms Barry has produced over 500 recordings over 25 years, ranging from works by Andrew Lloyd Webber to opera at the Mariinsky Theatre with Valery Gergiev, and many other legendary artists including José Carreras and Zubin Mehta.

The album presentation will include a special booklet featuring the complete Order of Service, the readings, vows, hymns and blessings, and all the music from what is expected to be a global event attracting the biggest audience in television history. The album cover is expected to be an exclusive photograph from the ceremony itself.

Decca Records, locally distributed by MCA Music is a part of Universal Music, the world's leading record company, which also released the recording of The Wedding of Charles and Diana, Prince and Princess of Wales in 1981, and the Funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales in 1997. The uniquely original new recording will be the next in a historic line to mark major milestones for our royal family, and as such it will enter the homes of millions across the whole world.

The Official Recording of THE ROYAL WEDDING available May 2011 in music stores for Php459.