A Shout Out to Chris Thomas of EntertainCorp

I met Chris in October of 2006. We both began working for Grip magazine based here in Atlanta. Grip had just returned from a brief hiatus and we were hired to develop a marketing department, I handled circulation/subscriptions and Chris took care of the promoting/marketing. We had our hands full because of the poor reputation the magazine had received because of reports of wayward business practices. We hit the field running and within a few months the magazine was back. Chris began by branding the magazine’s name at various social events by passing out free magazines, assuring that the DJ recognized Grip, and placing the logo on event flyers, soon you was able to hear "Grip" on radio stations such Hot 107.9 and 95.5 The Beat. Eventually He organized a run of successful Grip events with various Rap and R&B artist as well as a series of community events.

We left the magazine a year later but keep in touch on a regular basis. I remember speaking with Chris over a few “pre lunch” cocktails and we would have extensive conversations about life, loyalty, and the Atlanta party scene. He always spoke about how valuable the internet was when it came to marketing and promoting and how he wanted to go another direction with his events. He spoke of doing something for "the 30 something crowd”, something exclusive. Prior to leaving the magazine Chris began to produce more sexy events such as “Saki Sushi & Sounds” a monthly event at a chic downtown location.

If you’re in the know you have probably received an email from EntertainCorp Marketing Company, Chris is the founder and CEO. Entertaincorp has one of the most extensive and exclusive email list and has produced some of the most successful social events in Atlanta. Such as The Rolls-Royce’s “Luxury Lounge" an exclusive event that features various elite sponsors combined with entertainment. EntertainCorp took a unique approach with this one, no flyers no radio, no cover charge, very exclusive, point blank. I had the pleasure to attend this event, it took place at the “Artefacto” in Buckhead, a very elegant star studded event. Some of the notables were Jazzy Pha and Dekalb County CEO Vernon Jones who is currently running for the Georgia Senate. Chris is also in a venture with Push Music Group, in addition he provides marketing for Youngblood Timepieces and host events three nights a week at different locations, the " Perfect 10 Series” on Saturday nights at D'Jangos is my personal favorite.

Christopher Thomas is an innovative and progressive thinker and one of the premiere marketers in the Atlanta area. In fast growing Atlanta we quickly become board with our nightly activities, but don’t worry C Boogie will always come through with a intelligent, classy, and entertaining event.

DJ OX at NO I.D.'s Birthday Party

Weekend Recap June 27-29

Dreams from My Father

I'm almost finish with "Dreams from My Father" (written in 1995, Obama's first book he wrote while at Harvard) it's a good read and makes Obama appear to be a cool dude. It isn't because Obama identifies himself with being Black, he just appears to be down to earth. I never could relate to any of our Presidents. I can see me having a one on one with Barack, I can't see me having a real conversation with Bush or any other politician.

Hip-Hop Sites Hacked By Apparent Hate Group

Hip-Hop Sites Hacked By Apparent Hate Group;
SOHH, Allhiphop Temporarily Suspend Access

Owner of a lonely heart and The Matrix

In the early 80's before Hip Hop blew up, the only videos to watch were rock videos. Which means I know something about 80's rock music. One of my favorite rock joints back then was "Owner of a lonely Heart" by Yes. The other day I was putting the song on the Ipod so I decided to check the video out. I knew I seen the Matrix before......Owner of a lonely heart video used to always freak me out, and after seeing it again there are few of similarities to the movie "The Matrix".

UNIDEC’S 2008 INDUSRTY MELTDOWN MIDWEST MUSIC SUMMIT

It's confirmed: Rapper Kanye West will be in Madison on July 26 for the 2008 Industry Meltdown Midwest Music Summit.

But he's not performing. That's what Greg Doby, the Summit's organizer, has to keep telling people as he's fielded calls from all over the country and Canada since confirming West's visit last week.

Instead, West will be speaking at a 2 p.m. panel discussion about "The Message in the Music." It's part of the Summit's broader goal to bring urban music leaders together to network and talk about the future of the industry in the Midwest.

UNIDEC’S 2008 INDUSRTY MELTDOWN MIDWEST MUSIC SUMMIT is one of the largest urban music industry seminars to hit the Midwest region. This event and seminar is focused to unify artists, radio professionals, DJs, promoters, musicians, producers, retailers, record labels, & executives in the recording & urban music industry within the midwest region spanning from Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, and Wisconsin. The Summit has found its niche in creating a large-scale event stimulating awareness about the industry, connecting regional business and professionals in the urban entertainment community. This year’s event will have scheduled panels with deemed industry professionals, live performances, celebrity appearances, as well as an industry mixer with spirits and inspiring music. Youl’ll have opportunity to personally connect and interact with over 100 independent & major labels, celebrities and industry professionals that have been invited from Interscope, Universal, Def Jam, Arista, G-Unit, Kedar Entertainment, Sony, Atlantic, G.O.O.D Music, and many more.

http://www.unidecmusic.com/

CRUNK ENERGY DRINK/LIL JON STUDIO 72 Friday June 27th

Where has LIL JON been? Anyway he will be at Studio 72 located at 3965 Lawrenceville Hwy Tucker, GA 30084 (770) 934-2975 this Friday, June 27th. I've only been there once, it was Jermaine Dupri's New Years Eve party with the Jacksons. All of them were there along with Janet, with the exception of Michael (I hear he's in talks to play Vegas). It was alright ....the Jacksons looked like my old uncles......

NO. I.D. Birthday celebration @ the "Artistry" Sat. June 28th

NO I.D. and Mogie Isreal

Hey I just got a text...this Saturday (June 28th)......Super Producer NO I.D. is having his Birthday celebration the "ARTISTRY" 942 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30309 (404) 888 0101. I confirmed the event, I spoke to Jill over there...she was like who is NO I.D.? That's funny!!!! Can my man get the respect he deserves? You think Kanye will come out and show some love?

The Democratic Party

(I got this email from the Democratic Party, just passing it along)

Dear Rollie,

Our unprecedented primary season helped build our infrastructure in all 50 states -- not just for Barack Obama, but for all of the Democratic candidates.

Now it's time to bring all of that energy together around our common goal of change.

Obama for America is launching a nationwide day of action this Saturday, June 28th, called "Unite for Change." Across the country, Democrats who supported all of the candidates in the primary -- and those who are just tuning in now -- will come together to focus on party unity and victory in November.

There are more than 3,000 events in all 50 states -- find a Unite for Change house meeting near you and RSVP today:

http://my.barackobama.com/democratsunited

House meetings are a great way to get to know your fellow Democrats and help build a united volunteer organization in neighborhoods all across the country.

It doesn't matter if you've been with Barack since the beginning, if you supported another candidate in the primary, or if you're just getting involved now -- our goal is to reach out to anyone who is tired of the politics of the past and looking for new solutions to the challenges we're facing.

Democrats like you have already signed up to host events and talk about the common values we share. All you need to do is show up on Saturday -- and maybe bring a friend or two.

Lil Wayne performing at the BET Awards 2008

Yo wuddup yung world,
Okay, now is it just me or did they cut my man Weezy F. Baby's grand finale performance a lil shawt last night at the BET Awards? During his set ...towards the end of his smash hit single "Lollipop" ( T-Pain rendition ) R.I.P. Static Major....the transition appeared to go smoothly as they both transitioned into Weezy's banga (#3 on his Carter III album)..."A Milli"! Then, at least it appeared as though half-way thru his first verse....just as the crowd became entrenched in the bangin' ass basslines of a song that I think is very illmatic-(shout out to Big Fraze-Shatter Proof-"Bangladesh" on production) and a perfect close out song ...they cut him off. I mean completely off! Now, was that the end of his set? Quite possible, but judging by Weezy's facial expression and considering that they had already ran over their regularly scheduled time into the "Diddy Hour" afterparty with the stars sponsored by Diddy and his "Ciroc Vodka" staple ....makes you kinda wonder? Just another one of those things that make you scratch ya temple and say ...HMMMMMMMNNNNNNN?????

Adero Dawson
Ozone Magazine

Here at 48 Bars, we are always looking for new music, sounds, and video
to share with the world. For more information on interviews etc.
please send emails to measuredmedia@gmail.com

A Shout Out to Ms. Dia

I'm giving this one up for Ms. Dia, one of hardest working ladies in the ATL. You can catch her on the "Casual Conversation" show on WRFG 89.3 FM, each and every Wednesday (Tuesday night/Wednesday morning) from 3am-6am. She also host the Wednesday's edition of "Night Watch" from 12am-3am and serve as one of the co-host on the "Beat & Lyrics" show with Jay Force Twice Born & Montez every Saturday from 10pm-1am. In addition you can find her hosting the Apache Cafe every third Sunday of the month. I first met Ms. Dia last year when we were pushing the "Honor Society" project. She interviewed the "Society" and we had a very interesting conversation over the air. We also performed at her celebration at Sugar Hill for Hip Hop Appreciation Week. More recently Adero, Mogie, and Nemesis appeared on her "Night Watch" show and debuted two new singles, as always Ms. Dia gave her honest opinion on the joints. She describes herself as a "Motor City Peach", I would describe her a a success story in the making. It is people like Ms. Dia that represent Hip Hop to the fullest and what makes Atlanta so fresh musically, so Ms.Dia continue to do your thing and I will continue to support ya.

WWW.WRFG.ORG

Obama switched the Seal up...if they hate?

Obama is really flipping the script in this 2008 general election. Last week Obama spoke at a meeting of Democratic Governors at the Chicago History Museum in Chicago. He debuted a new seal on his podium. He flipped the iconography used in the U.S. presidential seal which is very similar the the seal founded on the back of a dollar bill. The seal had the blue background, the eagle clutching arrows on left and olive branch on right, but with symbolic differences. Instead of the Latin 'E pluribus unum' (Out of many, one), Obama's says 'Vero possumus', rough Latin for 'Yes, we can.' Instead of 'Seal of the President of the United States', Obama's Web site address is listed. And instead of a shield, Obama's eagle wears his 'O' campaign logo with a rising sun representing hope ahead.

The last time a President switched the style up on the Seal was President Harry Truman in 1945. President Truman modified the Seal by turning the eagle's head to its right as opposed to its left. The right is the direction of honor toward the olive branches. The left is towards the arrows which is symbolic of war.

Unfortunately Obama's Seal had an early retirement, the campaign was facing more ridicule than it was worth or was it?

A Shout Out to Erykah Badu

Since I'm on this Grambling tip I have to give up it to Ms. Badu! In 1991, When I arrived to GSU located in Grambling Louisiana, I was this wide eyed kid from Chicago that was dropped off in deep woods of the South. I found my way very quickly with my eyes on the prize, which was to pledge Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Badu studied theater arts at Grambling, but left the university in 1993 to focus on music full-time. I used to see Badu, (back then Erica Wright) on the yard wearing fatigue jackets, jeans with holes in them, and combat boots. I used to think to myself that she was a very fresh and intriguing person. From what I can remember her image is not an act, she sells herself to the world. In 1992, she and two other sisters performed for the Miss Omega pageant. I was very tuned in to her performance but I noticed that there was a lot of talking going on in the room, people in attendance not knowing they had a future Grammy award winner amongst them. A few years later while still in Grambling, I'm sitting on the couch watching some shit on B.E.T. getting mad blunted and I saw her pretty face on D'Angelo's remix of Lady. Badu is an inspiration for me. I know that she walked on the same dirt that I walked on, the same way I know that Obama walked the same streets that I walked. Truth be told I will only purchase a few artists CD and Badu is definitely one of them.

Her latest CD New Amerykah Part One (4th World War) is a Classic but I think it is downplayed because of it's theme, her appearance at a press conference in Tel Aviv, and her support of Louis Farrakhan. But hey, two tears in a bucket fuck it, the CD is hot. The most commercial song on the CD is the first single "Honey" produced by North Carolina's 9th wonder, the rest of the CD confronts the social ills of America. My favorite songs are Amerykahn Promise (produced by Roy Ayers) Soldier (they be trying to hide the history/but they who we are), and Master Teacher, (What if there was no niggas only master teachers?).

A rap music request

I think this is a thought provoking topic, my fellow Gramblinite sent this to me. To each his own, but I would have attacked this issue from another angle. You see the music industry is controlled by the "Big Four Music Groups" which are:

* Universal Music Group (France based) — 31.71%
* Sony BMG Music Entertainment, inc.
(Japan/Germany based) — 25.61% (13.83% Sony,11.78% BMG)
* Warner Music Group (USA based) — 15%
* EMI Group (UK based) — 9.55%
* independent labels — 18.13%

Nielsen SoundScan reported that the big four accounted for 81.87%

The above mentioned companies puts the bullshit out!!!

"Mindless music for the masses makes ya think less of the one that hates ya"
Paris (Wretched)
The Devil Made Me Do It
1990

"I am making a rap music request to hear more rap songs that attack other races and ethnicity's in this country instead of JUST black people. I want to hear a "racially attacking" balance in the rap songs that are currently being played at rap stations across the country and in Memphis, TN".
Rico Rivers




http://www.ricosopinionation.blogspot.com

CUT IT OUT! "Southside Country Club" featuring Adero

The Class of 1991

"How fresh is my life"? Those are my man's words. Check this out, I have six of the childhood homies from Chicago living here in Atlanta and we all fucks with the music! We all work in the industry from marketing managers, promoters, producers, MC's, singers, and song writers. The nice part about it is that we're all doing it on "our" terms, you won't catch the homies in no hard bottoms! Sometimes when we're kicking it, I just sit back and get the feeling I used to get when I was in 6th grade, same brothers with the same mannerisms from back in the day. During this blog you will get to know the crew a little better....for now check the picture, cause the world will be checking in a minute.

48 Bars

Hey young world? I finally decided to jump into the Matrix and join in on the Blogging. First I would like to explain the name of this blog 48 Bars...3 16's. .. Hip Hop... you do the math. I'm originally from Chicago but I been down South for some years, don't get it twisted I rep the Chi to the fullest but I live in the ATL. Atlanta is a really fresh city with a lot of culture, opportunity, great music, and a ton of shit to do. While in the ATL I've been on the grind for a minute with this music thing and have met some very talented and interesting people along the way.... so why not keep an account of my daily/nightly activities? Currently I'm working on two projects. The first is the "Southside Country Club". The "Club" is a collection of artists, producers, promoters...u get the picture. The second project is Measured Media which is a marketing/promotions agency, because working for someone is so 80's. Peace!