Bob Marley, Cryout, Jerry Criner, Stondie Tropical Records - A Don Lichterman Entertainment Company

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Newsroom 2009

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JULY 2010

Sunset signs production and distribution deal with Memphis based booker and live music promoter, Papa G. Records.

Memphis based record label, promoter, booker and Production Company, Maverick Group Marketing Inc. (MGM) / Papa G. Records and Sunset Records / Sunset Distribution Company have announced today an exclusive worldwide distribution deal through Sunset Records / Sunset Distribution Company. The multi year contract and joint venture between the Memphis based multi-media record company Papa G. Records and with the New York & New Jersey based Sunset Records & Sunset Distribution Company is a deal that will bring current artists like Crushing Juliet and Chosen View to Sunset from the Papa G. label/company.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset says that “Papa G. himself (John Garrison) is one of the top A&R people in the world, and my plan is to allow him and his staff to go off to sign any artists he works personally in the Memphis areas,” and “because he books and promotes one of the best halls (The Minglewood) in one of the best music areas in the world (on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee), I look forward to having him deliver new music to Sunset for many years.” (Don) Lichterman also says that “he (Papa G.) Is on the pulse of picking up on new trends in music” and that Papa G. is also “on the pulse of hearing new bands that play live at the Memphis venues he books live shows.” Lichterman goes on to say that he is “thrilled to work with Papa G. as a great extension to my company,” let alone “watching him do his A&R for Sunset because he has brought me to hear some of the best arrays of music collectively, that I have heard in one sitting in many years.”

The new production and distribution deal will continue to develop, license, and release recorded music and any entertainment related product the Memphis based company (Papa G. Records) delivers to Sunset in any genre and/or in any format. Aside from the initial releases of the alternative rock bands, CHOSEN VIEW (The Common Thread is due in stores: September 21, 2010) and CRUSHING JULIET (Broken Cadillac is due in stores: September 21, 2010) that are being released through the Sunset Record label, Papa G. Records plans to deliver bands in a variety of genres including Blues, Americana, Art Rock, R&B/Soul, Rock N’ Roll, and World music. The first projects through the new Papa G. / Sunset deal is slated for Fall release in 2010 with two new albums, The Common Thread (In Stores 9/21/2010) which is a brand new album from the alternative rock band by CHOSEN VIEW (Sunset Records) and the Broken Cadillac (In Stores 9/14/2010) alternative album by pop rock act, CRUSHING JULIET (Sunset Connect). "Both of these artists are an enormous talent with key songs for radio so I want them out by the end of September this year,” (Don) Lichterman says about the first two Papa G. titles being released in the Sunset Distribution system, “we (Sunset) are extremely psyched to be able to bring his (Papa G.) music, his bands and his sense of direction with music he works to the next obvious level in this industry, I also want to get his music and bands out to more of a mainstream and global audience." The alternative sub modern rock song, “Under The Swell” by the Chosen View’s The Common Thread CD has already begun to impact radio in the US and radio overseas in Italy, and the UK and “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow” on the Broken Cadillac CD have already been placed through two license (to be announced this month) deals both in the United States and in Italy.

MAY 2010

Pascal G’s back, singing his “Tale Of Lola” with his English debut CD Album with Tropical Records on May 11th!

Pascal G. is releasing his “Tale Of Lola” CD which comes with a very special music video with Tropical Records.

Pascal Mania is hitting the international music world with 16 songs, plus the “Tale Of Lola” music video on a very special CD set to hit stores on May 11. The first single, “Tale Of Lola” is a captivating, hip-swirling' hit song with that Pascal G. signature Latino style of music. The Spanish version of the single is also included on the CD, along with a very special remix of the song. Every song on this CD is composed in English and in Spanish with a couple remixes of one other remixes song (Chica Latina), along with the music video of “Tale Of Lola” (English Version). And, the teen heart throb shows his own heart with the song, “Come Make A Little Step Of Peace” (Official song for UNICEF Germany), which all proceeds and revenues from the sale of downloads, ringtones, streams and sales of the CD (pro rated) will go direct to UNICEF in Germany.

“Tale Of Lola” is the first English release by the Puerto Rican teen heartthrob – Pascal G. plans on expanding from his Latin American fan base and audience, to the expanding global market around the world with his Tropical Records (a Sunset Recordings, Inc. Company) release. Pascal can sing, write and his heartfelt lyrics are attracts that global audience. Pascal is making that transition from Spanish written and performed songs, to having versions made in English. The music video for “Tale Of Lola” is being released this week. Pascal and his new label, Tropical, are ready to release the CD and music video all over the world.

With a vocal range that sounds like a seasoned veteran, let alone an adult, the teen takes his signature 'Latino sound' to a higher level with this perfectly produced 16 song CD. And, what is evident on the album is an array of pop songs and accessible lyrics that Pascal delivers with his strong vocals. People can compare Pascal G. to be the next Ricky Martin and there is also a Shakira vibe heard in his songs. The album is one to make fans of pop music want to dance and sing along with the hip shaking pop superstar. This is an album that will no doubt lift the spirit of the listener while making you want to “shake your booty” on the dance floor.

Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical says that he is “thrilled to work this international styled music artist and that for such young aged performer, he is very adult like when it comes to his music.” (Don) Lichterman goes on to say that “I also love the added value having his “Tale Of Lola” music video included on the specially priced CD.” The idea to use the music video as part of the CD came from (Don) Lichterman although he is quick to give that credit to his manufacturing arm and partner, ELS Productions. “Honestly, the fact that Mark (McClelland) at ELS said it was a no brainer to release the new CD with the music video, made it an easy decision.” The label does insist that the SRLP (Standard Retail List Price) will stay at the normal $15.98 although the label will mark it down further to a $9.99 retail base price for both digital downloads and for physical CDs. Tropical will release the “Tale Of Lola” CD worldwide to stores on May 11th!

Rachel Fine signs with Sunset Records.

Multi faceted entertainer, Rachel Fine signs a multi faceted record deal with Sunset.

In recent months, Rachel Fine has put the finishing touch on her debut album, Own Your Own, also showcasing that music to the great Village crowds at some ultra hip and avant garde music venues in downtown New York City. (Rachel) Fine’s nouveau and neo soul vocal style caught the ears of Sunset Records label head, Don Lichterman who said that “not only will we expand her distribution, her songs will be available right away for our licensing partners to work.” Fine will now join the roster at the independent label Sunset Records, the current home to quirky alternative act, the Federal Moguls (Q-Ball from The Bloodhound Gang, Troy Walsh) along with Grayscale (Featured Now on FMQB’s CD) and the Universal Music Switzerland International pop star, now at Tropical/Sunset Sunset, Pascal G. The label has also had successful efforts in the last two years with critically acclaimed artists like Richaste (Produced by Pat Aeby (Krokus)), House On The Hill, Down From Zero (Top Ten at AOL/MTV’s Our Stage) and Steve Garcia (“9 West” CD due out August 2010).

Fine’s debut CD is expected to be released worldwide this summer, with a temporary street date set for July 27. “My goal with Rachel is to not only make sure she knows that she has a home to release her music,” says (Don) Lichterman, “she also is very opened to having her music worked in some cool ways.” The label also has plans to work her upcoming release to the “college market, alternative music market and to the adult (AAA, HOT AC, AC) music markets,” says the label head (Don Lichterman). Prior to the CD release this summer, (Rachel) Fine has another very special live performance set up on June 4th at the beautiful Gallery Bar located in the lower village in New York City.

(Don) Lichterman also made hints to the artists doing “live downloads” of her shows to be released at Sunset Live (www.Sunset-Live.com). For now, the label will now begin to set up the new “Own Your Own” CD for the upstart neo soul vocal music artist, Rachel Fine.

MARCH 2010

Sing And Sign A Language: Spanish Opens up a World of Spanish Language Learning for the Children’s marketplace.

Sunset Strategic Marketing (SSM) is setting up their first release that will tap into the children’s marketplace with the Sign and Sign a Language: Spanish three (3) CD Set.

The “Sing And Sign A Language: Spanish” CD Set is not only a specially packaged three (3) CD set, the initial concept for this type of a release was also produced to create a learning kit for children in their greatest development years. The entire set was then developed by Susan Dezenhall Schwartz along with sound man, Eric Aubrey at his Red Armadillo recording facility outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The entire project was produced, performed and recorded by (Susan Dezenhall) Schwartz, a linguist, composer, vocalist, educator and mother.

(Susan Dezenhall) Schwartz, unimpressed with the educational programs available for children’s learning, decided to create a learning program herself and for the students she teaches every day. Starting this inevitable series of language learning products with Spanish became the obvious choice considering the ethnicity of children in her classes. However, Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Records / SSM says that there are “plans to franchise this concept with more languages like Hebrew and French,” and that was always “the plan with Susan and me from day one.”

After three years of study, research and development, this very special set comes out as a CD and the label has already made way for the entire set to be available as downloads and ringtones. Lichterman goes on to say that “Susan (Dezenhall Schwartz) seems thrilled to have this be placed in stores,” and “I am thrilled to be working a project for kids.” This is first educational related product released at the Sunset/SSM company and the launch of this premier Spanish set “Sing and Sign A Language: Spanish” is perfect to educate and the songs are a great listen. The set includes not only lyric’s in Spanish, there is also a translation to English in the nicely packaged inside booklet and there are lesson plans for kids to follow along with too. The label; has these booklets available online (pdf) for everyone to download and print them out for free.

What is now called, The Sing and Sign a Language Series as a concept takes a unique approach at teaching the Spanish language to children and after hearing the Spanish CD set from beginning to end, it is easy to see how teaching and learning languages can be fun, colorful, easy and enjoyable. The “Sing And Sign” approach is set up to simulate a fun learning environment by introducing easy words to learn in every day conversations, introducing vocabulary through a story, keying on commonly spoken words, terms, sentences, phrases for easy use every day, uses an array of teaching resources and materials for children’s and parents to learn these lessons in an efficient way, and most of all, the goal is to keep things fun while learning. Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset said that "the best part of about this project is the overall reaction to it, and I am confidant by the pre sales at Amazon, let alone that initial reaction to the set, that this will be a great teaching and learning tool for kids and parents."Not only do I feel this set help people teach and learn Espanol, the songs are great to listen to in general,” says (Don) Lichterman about the three CD set.

The CD includes songs that sound like classics/standards like the “Bienvenidos” and “Adios” intro and outré to each lesson plan, is not only accessible to people, it is also recognizable in some ways. And, there are a total of thirty seven (37) Spanish versions of songs that sound like there is choir of kids singing behind the lead vocals. The songs are also set up in ways for children to learn in a chronological way and to be able to follow along with throughout the entire Set. Disc one is Lesson I / Level I while the second disc is for Lesson/Level Plan II and then the third disc is the Level II lesson plan. Consumers will be able to buy all three (3) CDs in one set from retail stores that sell CDs and DVDs, and consumers will also be able to buy individual songs and the individual Discs at stores that sell downloads and streams. The overall sound is very colorful and the CD is perfect to listen to at home, in a car, as well as with teachers and parents.

Moreover, "Sing and Sign a Language" is a multi purpose type of a CD release that is to be used at home and the label also will be working with Alibris to get the product into libraries and educational facilities around the world. The label plans to work this into school programs and/or educational enrichment programs that teach the languages. And, teachers, educators and parents do not need to know the Spanish language to use this product in an effective and efficient way. Parents and teachers will learn the language too as they teach it. Both English and Spanish are translated as part of the special packaging. The lesson plans are also included in that special packaging.

The "Sing and Sign A Language: SPANISH" is the debut release and there are plans to create more multimedia educational projects at SSM. The content on the CD set tells a story in a way to help you learn every day things about life.

For more information about the “Sing And Sign A Language: Spanish” CD Set and language series, please visit www.SingAndSign.SunsetRecordings.com.

Cryout and friends record live concert from the Oklahoma Blues Hall Of Fame for a CD release set to hit stores on 4/20.

Live roots reggae from the Oklahoma Blues Hall Of Fame with Cryout and a group of top musicians record their live album to be released through on Sunset Live Recordings on 4/20 next month.

Over the last decade of music, dancehall, ska and all types of reggae music have seen much critical acclaim with a great accessibility to the mainstream marketplaces, and there has been plenty of attention given to all sorts of Jamaican styled music. On the upcoming live CD, Jerry Criner, the founding member and aka of Cryout, evokes his fine, smooth vocals as he recreates his singles, onto a live CD. From the radiant roots reggae classics, "Gee Song,” “Desire” and “Funky Rasta” (originally released on his studio albums “Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try” and “Righteous Medication For The Soul”) to songs never before released on CD, "Screw Face” and “Hook, Line & Sinker."

Cryout' singing and vocals has the classic feel of Bob Marley along with the spark of a Peter Tosh, while showcasing his own delivery style to reggae fans. The percussion (Torrence Bear Cushinberry) is layered perfectly with vocals (Cryout) that are fused into "dub" style with its rhythm tracks. The authentic reggae sound makes this the person CD for reggae lovers and for lovers of live music. To see Cryout play live, is to see a spectacle and add in the top musicians in the genre (Selby Minner, Torrence Bear Cushinberry, Buck, Tony Mathews, Richard Web and Cryout), you have the making for a huge event at the Oklahoma Blues Hall Of Fame. Not unlike an impromptu jam and jazz fest style show out on the streets, fans at the show were grinning and swaying while dancing throughout the entire set.

The live CD consists of 9 songs with an old fashioned reggae jam thrown in by the artists. And, Cryout playing live offers fans great live reggae music at a very special venue. The show came together last summer (2009) at the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame which were preceded by what were weekly jam sessions that had been broadcast all over the world from the Down home Blues Club, which is also known as one of the last remaining true juke joints in the United States. These live sessions came from the same place that plays host to the Dusk til Dawn Blues Festival, an event every Labor Day Weekend courtesy of FOR Blues Inc. and Friends Organization. The show itself has no doubt set some great standards for reggae fan, and they are trying to prove they could prove to be one of the best reggae bands in America.

Combining an array of musicians, the Cryout, Live From The Oklahoma Blues Hall Of Fame is a polished live CD with a cascade of vocal harmonies, and an array of amazing musicians. Selby Minner thrives on guitar, Richard Web plays guitar and Buck sets the rhythm on his bass with songs like “Fort Lauderdale Shuffle,” and Torrence Bear Cushinberry drums throughout the entire CD with Tony Mathews play lead guitar on “Drop Of Water.” “I am psyched to run this via the Sunset Live record label,” Says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset, and “fans of reggae will no doubt need this CD for their collection.” This is classic Roots-Rasta styled reggae music and the entire ensemble click perfectly that night.

Indie Record Label to open Merchandise Company this week offering officially licensed product and band merchandise with both new and established artists.

Online Retail Company, Sunset Vending is being launched this week by founder Don Lichterman.

New online music merchandise retailer Sunset Vending (www.Sunset-Vending.com) is being launched by Sunset Records founder Don Lichterman. The new online merch company is designed to accompany products made for his new music artists signed to the Sunset labels, with legendary branded music artists like The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix and AC/DC. Sunset Vending has also signed specific license deals to resell and offer popular branded items by iconic organizations and estates like Sesame Street, Star Trek, Marylyn Monroe, Star Wars, John Wayne, Betty Boop, DC Comics (Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman), Looney Tunes (Taz, Bugs Bunny, Tweeter and Sylvester), Snoopy and the Peanuts gang along with many more official licensed deals that are currently in place. And along with many new license deals that are coming to the company.

Sunset Vending will set up its artists from its indie labels with specific popular merchandise items that bands will be able to sell online at Sunset Vending, at their own websites, at the labels web sites, at Amazon’s store along with being able to sell these products at their live shows. Sunset distributes (Sunset Distribution Company) an array of established and brand new acts like Sekshun 8, Gina Thompson, Federal Moguls (QBall from Bloodhound Gang), Anthony Geraci, TenPenny Joke, Down From Zero, Capt. Crunk, Original Black Pantah, I Kong along with Mark Simmons, Deon Cole, Kevin Hart and other live recordings from shows at the Laff House Comedy Club. “I am in hope that the Sunset Vending Company will give us the ability to showcase some cool band merchandise," says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Vending, “and that has already begun to pay off because even just yesterday; I picked up a unique product line hand made by a fan of the band Sekshun 8.”

(Don) Lichterman then says, that he “implemented the merch company’s business plan in the same exact way that I started my other companies at Sunset, which is to accompany my new signings with established, branded and legendary music artists.” Sunset Vending plans to allow bands to get their merchandise into dedicated fans hands without having to buy them at shows and Sunset Vending will also be selling official licensed products by popular music artists.

French Reggae artist Jah Gad, signs exclusive record deal with Tropical Records.

This week, the French roots reggae artist, Jah Gad was recognized by representatives at the Indy record label Tropical Records before signing the artist to its’ multi album recording deal.

Since the signing to Tropical, Jah Gad will deliver his new tunes sung in French making up the Segregation Continues EP release set to hit stores on April 27, 2010. The Côte d’ivoire, West African native, started his career by playing percussion and guitar while composing reggae music. His underground successes started at the national music school conservatoire en route to his becoming the most well known reggae star in that underground scene.

Tropical (Records) will now release the “La Ségrégation Continue?”(Segregation Continues) EP and Don Lichterman (Head of Tropical Records) says that he “loves this signing” at his world music record label. He (Lichterman) goes on to say that “Not to detract to anything Jah (Gad) and The Lucy Sound have set in place to this day, I am considering this an initial album which is how I want it to be developed and worked from day one.”

The Segregation Continues EP is being set up in stores for an April 27th street date and the plans are to release a full length album by the world music artist on the fall release schedule this year.

JANUARY 2010

Latino pop superstar Pascal G. signs major deal with Sunset

Sunset’s Pascal G. will record a full length CD with award winning producer (Jack White) as well as releasing a very special song for the UNICEF Organization.

Latino pop singer Pascal G. is the newest world music superstar to sign a recording deal, record a full length CD with the award winning producer Jack White (Barry Manilow, Laura Branigan, Al Martino, David Hasselhoff, Paul Anka, Pia Zadora, Jermaine Jackson, more) and that shows his philanthropic ways by giving away all proceeds for the download of his first single to the UNICEF Organization.

The pop star announced a deal that will cover his recordings, distribution, production, sponsorship, merchandising and the release of a five (5) songs EP with the proceeds of all sales for the UNICEF song going direct to the UNICEF Organizations.

The value of the multi album deal was not disclosed in the press release today; the label however, plans to release an EP so it can provide revenues from the sale of downloads, ringtones and streams, to UNICEF. Also included on the upcoming release is the hit song, “Tale Of Lola,” one version is in English, and there is another version in Spanish on the upcoming CD.

At such a young age, Pascal G. is already acting like a veteran with his craft, having released his debut music video of the song, ‘Tale Of Lola,” that debuted this week online with servicing to the companies that play music videos. His English-Spanish intersections have come about due in part to this deal with Sunset. He (Pascal G.) is one of the Latin world's most popular international music artists, releasing the initially at Universal Music International, and now with Sunset Record’s world music label, Tropical Records.

“Even though we are running this though the Tropical label at Sunset,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset, I want the Interscope / Geffen distribution system to deal with that aspect of this project.” Tropical Records uses Island / Def Jam digital distribution for its artist’s releases. He also follows in the direct paths of other international superstars like Shakira, Madonna, Jay-Z and U2 by signing a wide-ranged deal versus the traditional types of deals at mainstream record labels.

In recent months, Sunset is expanding its company’s operations into booking its artists shows worldwide with travel excursions that take their artists and their fans around the world and to see and hear unique live events. The company is also expanding its merchandising effort, is creating a children’s division as well as strengthening its marketing efforts by building its artists' relationships with their fan bases.

Look for the new EP to be available for sale in early April this year.

Sunset Live (www.Sunset-Live.com) is honored to join OurStage, MTV Networks and their partners to bring our community live streaming coverage of “Hope for Haiti”.

The live concert downloads will also be available at iTunes after the show ends tonight. The Hope For Haiti Concert features live performances by Wyclef Jean, George Clooney and CNN’s Anderson Cooper will host the two-hour global telethon airing Friday, January 22 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. And, the celebrities also scheduled to appear in support of relief efforts include Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson, Shakira, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock, Keith Urban, Coldplay, Bono, The Edge, Jay-Z, Beyonce, Rihanna...Go To Sunset-Live.com to see the show!

Tropical / Sunset Record’s 'Pascal G.,' teams up with Jack White to Produce Debut CD.

Latin Music Superstar Teams Up with Jack White for him to produce his debut album with Tropical / Sunset.

Pascal G. and his new world music flavored songs are at the heart of Latin Pop Markets. For just a few years now, he's been writing and singing great pop songs that are exuberant and upbeat happy music. Pascal G. has begun building his career by singing about woman and nightlife. He has recently entered into a partnership with the head of Sunset Records, Don Lichterman, to initially release his debut pop CD with Tropical / Sunset Records. “I want this project worked through Sunset & through the Interscope / A&M distribution system,” says (Don) Lichterman, and he then says that “even though the deal is with our Tropical world music record label, I want his (Pascal G.’s) songs and I want their (Jack White) production worked by that particular distribution staff”.

For his debut release with Tropical / Sunset Records, Pascal G. is now collaborating with the award winning producer, Jack White (Barry Manilow, Pia Zadora, David Hasselhoff, Paul Anka, etc.). White is set to produce his debut album, Lichterman says “the result so far as you can see on the web site (The Tale Of Lola” music video is now posted on web site as of last week) is a perfect album of what I am calling international pop music.” Lichterman also says that “my goal is to spread this music out as far and wide as possible with the hope of attracting a complete range of worldwide pop music fans to this Pascal G and Jack Whites final product.”

The street date for the Tale Of Lola CD is set for this spring 2010.

DECEMBER 2009

Sunset moves its record label web sites to the Secure Green Web Hosting Platform and Web Servers Powered By Wind and Solar Energy

Sunset Records moved over 60 web sites last week to its new web servers powered by wind technology and solar energy

Sunset, the “greenest” record company in the world, takes its environmental campaigns to another level by using Wind Powered Technologies' and Solar Powered energies’ to provide its’ Web application security, Storage for its web servers along with its PCI compliance for its record label and artist hosted web sites. Sunset will continue to provide the current and the future artists signed to the label, their own private portals providing security, SQL relational databases and a Cross Platform Site Script. In addition, Sunset now has their servers at their specific co-location with dedicated hosting for its label web sites and artists web sites.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset say that "After using a few solutions over the last three years, and considering my vision for my online infrastructure at Sunset, dealing with this transition now was an easy decision to make this month.” (Don) Lichterman goes onto say that “moving our content to our new servers is not only the first step in becoming environmentally sound at work, it is also long overdue for us to be using an environmentally conscious, carbon neutral online business model,” and “it starts with how we house our content on its servers.” Lichterman also feels that in doing this now at Sunset, “we will always be able to cater to our growing company and this is just more incentive and added value that our staff and artists get when you work at the world's greenest record label".

Sunset is also known for starting one of the most comprehensive and critically acclaimed digital only record labels this last year with Sunset Connect (www.SunsetConnect.com). "(Sunset) Connect became very well known this year and the press has been over the top great for us gaining the recognition after starting a label like Sunset Connect this year,” says Lichterman, and “now, there is zero hypocrisy which is why I felt so good after making that change this month.” Sunset will also provide their staffers, labels and artists even more secure and even more compliant to the digital millennium Acts and “without a huge investment in resources and/or man hours,” and Lichterman ends the conversation saying that “I am so happy to have this added value implemented to our online solution."

Sunset is one of the forefront runners and one of the most innovative record labels in the world. The company’s web site infrastructure is powered with 100% renewable wind and solar energy (90% wind, 10% solar) rendering its servers and business operations carbon neutral. Don Lichterman and his Sunset record Labels take practicing social responsibility and its overall Green Movement on its daily business operations, to another level this month.

OCTOBER 2009

This Saturday on December 12th, Tropical/Sunset artist Cryout, along with DJs Bear and Selby Minner are throwing a Toys For Tots Christmas party in Eufaul, Oklahoma

The Toys for Tots benefit is being held by the Eufaula Chamber of Commerce at the VFW Hall located on Highway 9 --The special evening includes a dinner, dance and music with Cryout's full band.

Sunset Records Strikes Deal to Integrate its Mobile Content with Vio Mobile

Agreement Will Enable Vio Mobile Users and Vio Distribution Partners to Seamlessly Release Sunset Records Contextually Relevant Ringtones at Hundreds of Retailers and Mobile Carriers All Over The World!

Sunset Records announced today it has signed an agreement with Vio Mobile, one of the industry’s leaders in mobile distribution, to provide mobile ringtones across several mobile retail channels, with hundreds of mobile carriers in territories all over the world.

Under this newly signed mobile distribution agreement, Sunset Records ringtones will be integrated into the Vio Mobile distribution network, enabling millions of users globally to effortlessly discover Sunset’s mobile content. Vio Mobile is also integrating its distributed ringtone catalog with the popular electronics company, Acer, for branded purchases so buyers of the new Acer MP3 Player, can discover its music on the new Acer media player. Sunset Records will also ensure that its links to the Vio Mobile website are set up integrated on every artist page. The Sunset artist pages are set up that when fans click through the links off their artist pages, they will be offered ringtones, playback tunes, wallpaper graphics and all relevant mobile content.

“The Sunset Records partnership with Vio Mobile emphasizes our continued expansion to get our music placed in every worldwide distribution channel and then also highlights how we can integrate our content with ease,” says Don Lichterman, the Head of Sunset Records. “I was impressed right away with what Ivan (Woodson) has built at his company,” says Lichterman about this deal and that he is “confident that Vio Mobile partners and its users will be able to find our mobile content in every network and all over the world.”

With this deal in place today, Sunset will have its catalog of recorded music available through the Vio Mobile network of over TWO HUNDRED (200) mobile carriers around the world.

SEPTEMBER 2009

The Miami Carnival Invades the Polish Club with dance hall reggae artist Alayna on October 10 as part of a weekend of festivities.

The 2009 Miami Carnival Invasion features live music all night on October 10^th featuring Alayna, Sugar band, Jam Tyme, Umb Soldiers, Showtime Band along with DJ Kevy kev, DJ Soso-HD and Ras Selah.

All over the world, Carnival is considered to be one of the most festive celebrations that actually encourage people to party in order to let that wild streak out of everyone. Miami is no different than the rest of the world and Miami is very well known for its festive partying and night club scene. And, the Miami Carnival Invasion will bring out some of the most colorful people in the world and some of the best international music artists in the world.

On October 10th, the Saturday evening of the Miami Carnival Invasion, the Polish Club will feature some of the most well known dancehall, reggae, soca, latin and island music artists for all night party! Tropical Records recording artist, Alayna is one of the headline acts on that bill and Don Lichterman (Head of Tropical) says that “we (Alayna) are so lucky to be booked to play that night with all the great international artists.”Besides Tropical’s recording artist, Alayna, the 2009 St. Croix Roadmarch winner, the Umb Soldiers and the 2009 Tortola Roadmarch winner, the Showtime Band will play live that evening. Rounding off that bill, is the Sugar Band, Jam Tyme and world renowned DJ artists, DJ Kevy Kev, DJ Soso sand Ras Selah.

The celebration and festivities will feature the Miami Carnival Invasion Concert event at the Polish Club. The show starts at 10PM on October 10^th with then over twelve (12) hours of nonstop live dancehall and live world music all night long until 10 AM the next morning. The festivities will then continue on Sunday, October 11^th with the Miami Carnival 2K9 Invasion being held in Miami’s Bicentennial Park for a day and night of parades, live entertainment, dances, and carnival games.

Tickets and all information about Alayna can be found at her official web site page at Tropical Records, http://Alayna.Tropical-Recods.com. Tickets and Information for the Miami Carnival Invasion concert event, you can go to the KM Entertainment web site www.KMuzikEnertainment.com. And, all information about the Miami Carnival 2K9 Invasion, can be found at their official web site, http://MiamiCarnival.net/fetes/event_108.html.

The Rotary Club in Orlando to Host Alayna’s Birthday Bash on October 3^rd.

The Rotary Club in Orlando Florida is set to host the Alayna birthday bash on October 3^rd this year.

Tropical Records formally invites all dancehall reggae fans to celebrate the Queen of Dancehall Reggae, Alayna’s birthday party bash in Orlando, Florida at the Rotary Club on Saturday, October 3rd.

The party will run all night and into the early morning at the Rotary Club. Other acts playing celebrate this very special live evening of music is the Soulradio DJs, Great Impact, Jah Fyah, Goldstar, Warrior Sounds, Jah Lion and Alayna will headline the birthday bash. There will be theatrics including world famous jugglers and complimentary champagne to toast the Queen of dancehall on this very special night.

Florida is very well known for embracing the reggae and dancehall club music scene. "It's going to be an incredibly fun night of music, dance and partying," says, Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical Records. "This is going to be a fun celebration for a joyous occasion and I can see by the production notes that it will be a festive night of music and theatrics. There will be free champagne given to everyone which will make for a great 'Happy Birthday' to Alayna. I was so psyched to hear that people are going to be celebrating her birthday the same week we release the album to stores. And, the lineup of people that want to play that night is overwhelming."

The Rotary Club is located in Orlando, Florida at 475 Kirkman Street. Tickets for the show are only $10 before midnight.

All information about Alayna can found at her Tropical Records Artist web site, http://alayna.tropical-records.com.

Tropical Records Presents the “Project Reggaeologist” Album Release Party Featuring the Original Black Pantah at the Club Antigua.

The Original Black Pantah plays a very special live concert on September 29^th at the world famous Club Antigua in the heart of Orlando, Florida.

Tropical Records presents “Project Reggaeologist,” CD release Party this month at the world famous Club Antigua in Orlando, Florida. The very special album Release Party featuring the Original Black Pantah is now set for Tuesday, September 29^th. The special evening with the incomparable dancehall reggae artist will also be hosted by Clay, the Granadian “Don Dadda” with his special guests, the Sexy Body Gyal Crew whom will also be celebrating his birthday that evening at the Club Antigua.

The show is in support of the new album, “Project Reggaeologist,” which already available at top retail outlets like Amazon, Target, Borders and FYE. The entire CD can also be download and streamed at popular retail outlets like MySpace Music, iTunes, Rhapsody and wherever downloads and ringtones are sold. A documentary home video will be made available at Amazon’s Videos On-Demand and the Tropical label will release a very special Project Reggaeologist CD with the Documentary DVD in on package on September 29^th. “Not only is this one of the best artists in the world,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical Records, “we have so many ways to create revenues with OBP right away.”

Also, (Don) Lichterman’s Sunset Live Entertainment Company is also very excited to announce today that the Tropical/Sunset Records recording artist, Original Black Pantah will make this very special record release party available as a “live download” at Sunset Live. The concert will be made available within a few hours after the show which begins at 10PM and is open ended for fans to be able to celebrate this birthday and CD release all night long. “We are also thinking about doing a simulcast, says Lichterman, however, “I am psyched t have the show available for his fans and I also believe in this as a great revenue source for certain music artists.”

Doors for the show will open at 8 p.m. with the performance beginning promptly at 10 p.m. The Original Black Pantah will perform songs from the newly released album “Project Reggaeologist,” including the single “We Need Love,” which was already named the number one (1) song at AOL’s Our Stage for the entire month and he will also play everyone’s favorites from this debut dancehall reggae CD. This live concert event is not only a great chance to see one of the best dancehall reggae performers; everyone will get to celebrate the birthday of Host, Clay all night.

Jamaican born Major Banton signs new recording and distribution deal for his debut CD release with Tropical Records.

Tropical Records expands its already impressive artist roster with the impressive new reggae artist, Major Banton.

Major Banton was born on the West Indies Island of Jamaica and he has started recording his debut CD with Rod Millwood producing it, in Philadelphia (PA). "Banton" is a Jamaican word referring to someone who is a respected storyteller, and that was evident to Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical Records just after “hearing about 20 seconds of the first song Rod (Millwood) turned over to me last month.” He “then watched the New Creation video which happens to be featured at My Space in their video section, and I knew that I had to release this CD at Tropical and I knew that I had to do it this year.” Lichterman and his Tropical Records went around their signing freeze that had been in place at Sunset (Tropical Records is a Sunset company) since its old distributor (CBuJ) filed bankruptcy in July. Lichterman and Tropical already boasts to having signed some of the most renowned reggae artists (I Kong, Mabrak, Cryout, Stondie) and two of the top dancehall reggae artists (Original Black Pantah, Alayna) in the world today.

Lichterman also says that is Tropical Records will get this out this year and that they are currently shooting for a mid November release day. The working title for Tropical records and Rod Millwood is New Creation.

Reggae Drumming Legend Mabrak is releasing his Roots Man CD worldwide with Tropical Records; the label will also release a live album and his Drum Talk CD through its Sunset Special Markets Division.

Tropical Records is setting up releases by one of the top reggae legends in the world, Mabrak’s Roots Man is set to hit stores on October 6th.

Along with renowned reggae percussionists like Sly Dunbar, there is not too many Jamaican styled drumming artists has created such international critical acclaim than the versatile reggae legend, Mabrak. The drumming legend is an icon today within the Jamaican World Music and Reggae Community and throughout the entire world of reggae music, Mabrak has single handedly carved out his legendary status in what is a career spanning decade. Mabrak was initially touted as the world music and reggae drumming champion before he started releasing his music with Tropical records. His award winning acclaimed instrumental Drum Talk CD is also being released and repackaged next month at Tropical. The label is also releasing a full length live CD, a Live Video on DVD and as a Video Download with strategic partner, Amazon (Amazon Videos On-Demand). And, Don Lichterman’s world music and reggae record label is also releasing Mabrak’s The Roots Man CD as a front line CD on October 6th.

Mabrak’s roots music is some of the most incredible mixes of reggae and soul and his amalgamation of reggae, world, soul, R&B, dancehall, and roots rock elements into a solid sound inspired by the best artists in reggae music history. Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical Records says that Mabrak is “one of the most consistent reggae artists in the world and he really delivered a lot of incredible music to the label.” “This Roots man album is a classic,” says Lichterman “with 6 or 7 songs that are now being played on the radio and that are being considered for television shows and film and honestly, this is one f=of those albums that needs to be out for the reggae aficionado around the world.” Lichterman goes onto say that “what is best about Leroy (Mabrak) is that he has already brought us live material which I love, live concert videos which is being featured at Amazon and then also an award winning instrumental album all coming out before thanksgiving his year.”

“Come Sister Come” is the first single being worked to world music and radio stations around the world. "RootsMan," the song is the perfect reggae styled ballad and the entire CD recording is a cohesive classic reggae album. Mabrak's material at times is fundamental many senses and considering his repertoire, and when he is o grooving with his drums, it’s very easy to see that Mabrak is obviously one of the top reggae artists in the world. Such is the case with the rest of the songs on the Roots man CD. Especially on songs like the dancehall-rhythmic "Jah Love s forever," and with songs like "Envy & Jealousy," and "Blackbird.” The title track meanwhile is exceptional, like roots reggae styled song should sound like and Mabrak’s soulful infused vocals and melodies are what make Mabrak the legendary reggae music artist.

This Roots Man CD is set to hit stores on October 6th and the live album and live video comes out this month on September 22. The world famous award winning Drum Talk CD will be re releases in mid November. There are also plans to re4klease more Mabrak material before spring next year. All of the songs on the Roots man CD contain Mabrak’s soulful vocals along with incredible harmonies with that subtle soul influence and even a touch of R&B. Mabrak is a classic reggae artist and his music makes up classic reggae tunes and Mabrak adds in many world music influences in the mix. (Don) Lichterman’s goal is to make sure everyone knows that Mabrak is a legendary reggae music artist. And, the label is confident that his already classics will make up what is common place within the popular reggae music culture and society. There are not that many classic reggae artists that can capture the imagination like Mabrak does with his music. The music tells many stories and talks about political themes while being totally infectious –Mabrak vividly captures his life’s experiences and captures the life of many Jamaican's working class in his accessible and timeless music.

Alayna bursts into the international dancehall reggae music scene with Controversy!

Tropical Records sets up the debut CD entitled Controversy by the incomparable dancehall pop sensation, Alayna.

Obviously compared to top pop dancehall artists like Lady Saw and Tanya Stephens, the brand new Tropical Records artist Alayna seems to have that same recipe and formula of raw beat coupled with raw lyrics. Much more of a brash attitude than the likes of Lady Saw and Stephens, Alayna’s debut CD Controversy demonstrates her robust vocals and lively delivery of her songs. Controversy is an album filled with ten brand new songs that are real and very enjoyable dancehall tunes. The first single being released to radio by Tropical (Records) is the hit song, I Know You Like It which has absolute cross over capabilities for radio play. Other standout songs on the full length CD are the Final Talk, V.I. Soldiers and the Pretty Pussy Whine song is getting a lot of attention at radio.

It is very obvious why Alayna has already burst onto the dancehall reggae music scene. Her live show and her debut CD shows that she is nothing less than an incredible brash and energetic music artist, that could no doubt play at that high level purveyed by what is dominated by male dancehall artists. The other thing Alayna brings dancehall music fans with her debut CD is an album of some of the most political, current, and insightful lyrics in reggae music history. Controversy is an amazing debut album with an uplifting vibe and with reflective messages in every song. Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical/Sunset says that the “the album is produced almost in a down tempo sort of way, yet the melodies give many songs that chance to cross over to a mainstream audience.” Lichterman says that “not only do I love the content of her lyrics, every song also grooves with her great melodies.” Alayna certainly pushes the envelope with her lyrics and that is “part of her beauty” says (Don) Lichterman. He also says that “she goes well above the norm with her intense lyrics,” and that her “music has a spiritual message and a social message.” Most of all with Alayna’s music is that she can play alongside the top dancehall music artists that are active today.”

Alayna's debut CD is no doubt a daring, susceptible, in your face, flawed and overall is a multifaceted spirited CD not for your every day basic reggae aficionado. With Alayna and her attitude portrayed in her music, rather than falling back on predictable topics, she brings to the forefront current affairs and world leaders as a way to rebuke those of whom have not been that struggle in life. Alayna also portrays many shocking illustrations with real life scenarios that reverberate in every song 0onthe Contr9oversy CD. The music is in no way inconspicuous which is intentional and its way of allowing her to send that message in her songs, and coupled with vocals that are pristine, Alayna has delivered a s0olid CD to Tropical Records. “We basically picked up her remix CD and took out the radio interviews to create the Controversy CD,” says (Don) Lichterman and “this is a great CD with great songs from beginning to end.”

JULY 2009

Project: Reggaeologist is the worldwide CD release from the world’s most renowned dancehall, club and reggae artists, the Original Black Pantah, on Tropical / Sunset Records.

The original Black Pantah sets up to release his debut CD, Project: Reggaelogost with Sunset’s, Tropical Records on August 11th.

The greater part of the Jamaican reggae styled dance-hall records have stuck to the same beats, writing styles and overall three-beat rhythms. Many songs have lyrics bordering on raunchy and violence with so called, limitations from these experiences in life. That style of music is directly geared to being played at clubs and on the dance floor with it’s the rough-and-gritty tone of its local slang that is capable of turning a lot of heads in the music world. There are now many variations to this style of music that include rap and hip-hop to accompany in incredible groove throughout each song. Many styles of music are a major part of dance hall reggae.

A few years back, the Black Pantah had decided a few things about his new recording project, his goal was to vary off what has been set in placed with regard to dancehall and reggae music, and to add to the landscape for dance-hall DJs and reggae artists. Pantah went to record in Florida to the Nu Jamz Studio located near the Walt Disney World Orlando Studio and Themed Park. He then recorded the old traditional song, “I A Buffalo Soldier” dancehall style creating its own arrangement for the song popularized by the legend, Bob Markey and the Wailers. And, throughout the entire CD, Project: Reggaeologist, he is very much going above the norm for reggae dance-hall rhythms with amazing textures, layers and levels making every song at a high level. Pantah was never before defined by any specific metaphorical stance in life, but, it’s clear to see that the incredible dancehall artist has made a full length album for all music fans, eclectic music listeners, let alone world music and reggae fans.

In the song “We Need Love," the Original Black Pantah is the quintessential song for all music lovers and is the first single for the label to be worked right at world music radio stations. The song is already peaking in the top ten (10) at AOL’s Our Stage web site and the overall groove is what makes this a great album. The changes in the styles and arrangements creating a magic carpet ride from the verses to the hooks make this song more than your average dance-hall track. The flow with reggae, rap and dance hall – helps tells the story about what he wants in life. After preaching from the Bible to start the CD, the second track is an ode to himself as an MC with an obvious upbeat and religious roots reggae base. And, the CD continues with the "Hey Blacks," song and the album boats an extra remind version of the song. “I have been rather vocal about how excited I am to be able to work this incredible album,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical / Sunset Records.

Tropical has set up two release dates to add value to this CD release by releasing the single configuration worldwide to retail stores all over the world next month on August 11th, the label will release the CD plus DVD in late September this year. After a year of signing amazing talent at Tropical, it is easy to see how this new affiliation with Tropical Records, the East Coast reggae label at Sunset Records, is going to be for the career of the Black Pantah. This album is chockfull of opinioned and theoretical soul searching songs about life.

The debut album from dance hall's rising star, the Original Black Pantah is austerely a hardcore quintessential dance-hall reggae album. Pantah’s vocal grit and baritone spring up what are unexpected subject matters for the artist on this CD, and there is anything but that three-beat rhythm we are used to hearing ion dancehall cds. The music is what will speak for itself as this is one of the top reggae albums released this year.

Dancehall artist Alayna has signed an exclusive recording agreement with the New York based record label Tropical records, a Sunset records company.

Under the terms of their recording agreement, the upstart reggae and world music record label will release the brand new full length Controversy CD from the artist on September 22. The CD will be made available at every major retail outlet on the world along with every digital distribution outlet that sell downloads, ringtones, streams and playback tunes. The label will also seek licensing deals through its media outlets that include placement at feature films, television shows, video games, movie trailers and even ringtones and advertising commercials. The financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed to the press and Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical / Sunset says it’s a potential 5 album deal with all the option periods in place.”

Alayna will include duets with artists like Nina Nyce, and the “I Know You Like It” song is the first single being worked to reggae, world and to dance and club stations. (Don) Lichterman says, “We will keep an eye on the first single over the next few months to see if we have any chance to cross that song over to top 40 stations.” Alayna has recently opened up shows for powerhouse music artists, Pressure and is headlining at the Summer Splash Festival 2009 on the Virgin Islands.

Alayna not only mesmerizes reggae, dancehall and world music fans in the United States with her live music, the plan for the record label is to make this album available abroad with the potential hit song.

REGGAE LEGEND MABRAK SIGNS NEW RECORD DEAL WITH TROPICAL/SUNSET RECORDS

Award-winning roots reggae drumming legend, Mabrak, has signed a new recordings deal to distribute his Mabrak Music company with the Tropical/Sunset Record Label.

The brand new record deal includes the re-releases of up to potentially eight (8) MABRAK catalog titles (THE ROOTSMAN, MABRAK LIVE, DRUM TALK, MIRRORS OF MY MIND, 1000 YEARS, IT IS ELECTRIC , GIVE THANKS & PRAISE, THE EARLY YEARS), and the label will release the Rootsman as a front line CD on October 6^th this year. The label will also release four (4) other Mabrak catalog titles before the end of this year. The newly released CDs will include brand new tracks not that have not been made available on previous versions and the song listing on the Rootsman CD will vary compared to the original release of the CD. There will also be new remixes and mixes of his popular songs used as promos and giveaways to reggae fans. Also included in this deal will be the release of the Mabrak re-mastered live album along with his award winning and world famous Drum Talk instrumental CD, both to be re released later on this year at Tropical. The 2004 World Reggae Drumming Champion of the World, Mabrak’s The Rootsman will be released as a brand new front line CD under this new deal in October.

"What that does for the label is gives is something to work and besides, his music has not been seen in stores in many years,” says Don Lichterman, the head of the Tropical / Sunset Records. “And, its always a crying shame in this industry for any music on this level to be sitting around someone’s house collecting dust so to speak.” “I am very much looking ahead towards what will be a long relationship between Mabrak and Tropical.” “Plus, I get another living legend signed to what is already an amazing label,” states Lichterman about the newly signed distribution deal.

2009 celebrates another decade of Mabrak's many years playing reggae music. The artist first debuted on the initial I Kong, How Sweet It Is CD. I Kong is another legendary Tropical Records artist with his Forgotten Man CD being release this month on July 14^th. And, now look for the initial Mabrak CD, The Rootsman, to be released at Tropical/Sunset, on October 6th.

Visit Mabrak's official label website at www.mabrak.tropical-records.com

JUNE 2009

Dancehall Reggae Artist the Original Black Pantah releases Project: Reggaeologist two times with Tropical Records this year!

The Project: Reggaeologist CD hits stores worldwide on August 11 and then again as a very special CD w/ DVD dual disc on September 29.

One of Jamaica’s top dancehall music legends, the Original Black Pantah will release his new album, Project: Reggaeologist two times in August and September this year. The regular single configuration CD will be available in stores worldwide on August 11, 2009 and then the label will release the same CD with additional DVD on September 29, 2009. Both releases will be on Tropical Records, the world music record label at Sunset.

The single configuration CD was always to be released on August 11^th this year. And, rather than delay that street day for the dancehall reggae artist’s CD release, the label has decided to make another configuration with the added value of video on DVD. The latest release by the Black Pantah is now generating a huge buzz in the reggae world and with radio play around the world. “We were always going to release the single configuration the normal way on August 11,” says Don Lichterman, the Head of Tropical / Sunset Records, “but then I realized they had been trying to release this amazing video footage and decided to add this value to the Project Reggaeologist release without it affecting any street days this summer.” The CD and video touches into a range of subject matters along with having brand new live footage, discussions about music, self-reflection and this brand new 11 track CD features Pantah’s strong vocals blending perfectly with upbeat melodies—the entire CD was self produced by Pantah himself.

Meanwhile, Pantah has been setting up lives shows this summer including his Orlando show with the controversial dancehall styled reggae artist, Movado. The label has already begun setting up and working the new CD being released on August 11. And, whether it is dancing and/or romance and/or reflection, the Original Black Pantah’s Project: Reggaeologist reveals the next chapter en route to becoming an obvious reggae icon.

Reggae Legend I Kong set ready to release extended CD with Sunset’s Tropical Records on July 14!

Reggae legend I Kong has been through more than his share of life’s experiences over the last few decades, and the new Tropical Records release of the extended 19 song Forgotten Man CD will prove to be one of the best opportunities for Kong’s positive messages of true love, world peace, and total unity amongst humans to the world.

The I Kong vibe and energy is unmistakable on this extended CD album entitled, The Forgotten Man (Release date: July 14, 2009), this is the latest release by I Kong in what is a lengthy and prolific career that began decades ago and today, I Kong has now reached a place being a part of reggae history. And, personally, Kong is at total peace with everything which is evident in the songs on the new CD.

I Kong’s musical journey began in Jamaica, where he first heard legend Bob Marley music which gave the inspiration to be able to convey his own message in his own music and then to the music world.“Kong is legend. His music is amazing and his new material is the best music he has done to date,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical / Sunset Records. “The most incredible part of me hearing the final work on this new CD is that our first single is actually the 19th and final song on the CD. That is not only a great testament to putting together a great full length album, this is also a great roots reggae CD that every world music fan will have as part of their collection. And, Kong is a legendary artist that will be around forever in the history of music.”

Lichterman (Don) goes onto say that he picked up the Forgotten Man CD and then added four (4) brand new songs recorded by the legendary reggae artist. I Kong also originally released The Way It Is in 1978, which is the only album recorded by Errol Kong, the nephew of the famous Jamaican producer Leslie Kong. Now, almost 30 years after that album release, these nineteen tracks (expanded for this reissue) are being worked as a new album by the upstart Tropical Records. The album's lead track and first single is a brand new song by I Kong entitled, "Are You Lonely For Me Baby," is a quintessential reggae song that is sure to be a standard.

After years of making music and playing endless amounts of live shows being on the road, let alone multiple successful albums in the reggae music scene, and his endless durable work ethic, Kong spent a lot of time writing his music back on the Jamaican island. And, after working with his old record labels and distribution companies in the music industry along with his management and booking agents, he finally found his home at the Tropical Record label (a main subsidiary of Sunset). And no matter how legendary and how strong Kong’s songs are in his career, let alone his ongoing growing popularity every year, getting paid for that work seemed to be a problem for this artist. Lichterman says, “the one thing he will get at Tropical is paid for his work and the way we structured this deal is that he will get paid day one (so to speak) for that work.” Lichterman then goes onto to say that “sales today, mean nothing to me” because he “expects” that eventually, “every artist at Sunset will be multi platinum status and the last couple years have been a complete set up for the rest of our lives.”

Prior to this deal last month, Kong started his own company to handle his own business affairs. He created and founded the Kong Music label with Gee Cee Management founder, George Campbell. And, Lichterman embraced the model for the independent reggae musician. And, the label head proceeded to sign a few artists (Original Black Pantah) through the new label deal. “Considering the landscape of distribution today and considering the reach of the internet for music artists and us Indy labels, Kong is one of those artists that need to be out and available to everyone in the world.”

The label has the CD set up at major retail stores and is getting ready to begin work on radio play this week. I Kong is featured in the newsletter given out to over 80,000 people at the Bonnaroo Music Festival next week (Bonnaroo Beacon Newsletter). The CD is set to hit stores on July 14th. The downloads and ringtones will also be available wherever they are sold online.

And, Kong’s obvious messages on the Forgotten Man nineteen (19) song extended CD is of total self-confidence, financial independence, and his great self-confidence that has gradually taken on new meaning for Kong. And, as Kong’s career continues to grow and blossom even to this day, he will reap of release a solid reggae CD to the world.
About Tropical Records / Sunset Records

Cryout has Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try hitting stores on June 9!

After releasing one of the most critically acclaimed (and perhaps most overlooked) reggae albums of 2007, Cryout seeks to make another big splash with his latest CD, Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try.

Once again, working his CD through the Sunset records system, the new CD will be released at the Tropical Records world music Indy label. The Cd is of course self produced seeking the aid of Rudy Love and all-around musical songwriter and performer, Andrew Summers for the recording of the Nothing beats A Failure But A Try CD.

“It's not that Jerry (pka Cryout) needs any push or magical touch per say,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical Records and Sunset Records. “This is his third album that I know he has produced in the world of reggae over the past several years, but recording this music in that spiritual and even inspirational way is the key to a great reggae album. When his fans hear the Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try CD, it’s the perfect progression for this staff producer / A&R person because the entire CD is filled with songs that are classic roots reggae.”

"Dance With Me" and "Island Girl" in specifically remind you of being on any island in the world, with soothing vocals and a laid-back reggae and Caribbean vibe. The instrumentation is also fluent; we get some eclectic dubs (remix work created and produced by Jerry Criner pka Cryout), plus extended musical mixes such as the Dance With Me remix song that is also been placed on the CD.

As the CD states, Nothing beats A Failure But A Try is relevant to him personally and very much accessible to all reggae fans -- and often upbeat, yet the songs are kindhearted, gentle which is the case in songs like "My Angel" and "Greyhound" -- that showcase the reggae artist's lovers side of himself.

Cryout’s latest release is set to hit stores on June 9th. The CD is a sure thing for reggae aficionados and for world music fans that complain that reggae music is not what it used to be as far as its roots. And, for the reggae fans that have not yet heard Cryout’s first two (2) CD releases, Cherokee Nation and Righteous Medication For The Soul, should get those albums for their collection. Tour plans for Cryout are being planned now and there are a few record release shows being played in preparation for the live tour slated for later this year.

APRIL 2009

Tropical Records Inks A Landmark Distribution Deal With The Newly Formed Gee Cee Records and Dancehall Superstar Original Black Pantah.

The Original Black Pantah signs worldwide recording deal at Tropical Records.

Don Lichterman of Tropical / Sunset Recordings, Inc. announces a well publicized landmark recording and distribution deal with the newly created reggae, dancehall and world music record label Gee Cee Records to market, promote and distribute dancehall superstar, Original Black Pantah. "The Original Black Pantah is one the greatest dancehall reggae performers in this specific style of music. When I saw him on You Tube playing live, I knew that I had to whatever was needed to get him signed to the label. Pantah is an incredible addition to our artist roster at Tropical," Don Lichterman said from New York City. The first release from the Original Black Pantah under the newly signed Tropical/Sunset Records venture with Gee Cee is setting up to record and release brand new material later on this year in 2009.

The well known artist is known for his high-level of energy at his live shows, the Original Black Pantah a/k/a Neville Folkes is one of the few dancehall acts that have the ability to crossover his music into mainstream styles and over many radio formats. The newly recorded CD, Project Reggaeologist is expected to be a top seller for the Tropical Record label. In addition to the new CD in the works, Original Black Pantah has plans to play a major music festival in Montego bay, Jamaica, will also hit the road supporting the new CD due out later this year. Pantah says that he is “thankful for the Sunset Records connection; SWEET!”

A long time partner with George Campbell, the Original Black Pantah signed with his Gee Cee Marketing Company, and now his Gee Cee Records and the upstart label / Management Company is ready to have this artist crossed over into more of a mainstream audience with his current underground UK dance club hit single "I Am A Buffalo Solider." And Gee Cee’s other artist is the legendary, I Kong, also signed to the label this week. Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical / Sunset says regarding the distribution and label deal with Tropical / Sunset, “the Original Black Pantah is one of the most excited artists in the world and I cannot tell you how psyched I am to work this music this year. And, for many years because I am planning on announcing a label deal with George’s (Campbell), and with his two signings at Gee Cee, we are not only gonna take this style of dancehall music to another amazing level, we get to work a legend with I Kong.” “These are two of best signings at the label to this day and I cannot wait to start working these guys. I expect big things from both artists for many years,” says Lichterman.

George Campbell, President of Gee Cee Records says about his artist: "Original Black Pantah has worked internationally his entire life playing his music, but I have noticed so much motivation to succeed with his music today. I welcome this signing and Don Lichterman's guidance for both Pantah and I Kong. I look forward to a lasting successful relationship with Sunset and Tropical Records. This is the level we need to be at making sure this music in major retail and worked to more than one radio format." Tropical Records / Sunset Records Founder Don Lichterman comments that, "it’s great to now be working with George (Campbell), Pantah, I Kong and creating an A&R driven label with Gee Cee Records and I can now feel that my business plan for the world music label has taken great shape in one swoop."

Tropical Records, established in 2007 on the island of Jamaica is the stand alone world music, reggae styled and Caribbean Music Record Company at Sunset Records. Sunset is fast becoming one of the largest independent labels in the United States, and can boast to having top 50 songs playing on the Urban Radio Stations with its up and coming hip-hop-flavored and upbeat dancehall style of music. The 2007 release of Cryout’s catalog of recorded music and Stondie’s Indy Island hit song paved the way for these two signings. The label also released the Pleasure Of The Caribbean CD with the Menus and Music Production Company and these releases helped catapult the Jamaica-born label to have the ability to sign two of reggae music’s household names today.

Sunset Records is one of the world's pre-eminent independent entertainment companies in the world today. Sunset already has innovative ventures including more than distributing music and the label encompasses a wide range of businesses including music publishing, a digital only record label, a live download company, an all live radio network, an Urban record company, a jazz label, a classical record label, a home video company, a special markets company, a company that sells environmental goods and company that sells products never tested on animals. Sunset is the label that has signed legends Gina Thompson, I Kong, Federal Moguls (QBall from Bloodhound Gang), as well as current chart toppers TenPenny Joke and up and coming brand new artists Richtaste, Cryout, Don Ward, LR-60 & Mr. Moods, House On The Hill, Lil Dynomite, The New Surreal, Steve Tilleli, Capt. Crunk, Stondie, and now the Original Black Pantah.

Visit Original Pantah’s official website at www.BlackPantah.Tropical-Records.com.

REGGAE LEGEND I KONG SIGNS NEW DEAL WITH TROPICAL/SUNSET RECORDS.

Award winning roots reggae legend, I Kong, has signed a new distribution deal with Tropical/Sunset Records this week. The deal gives the Tropical Records label a re-release of the Forgotten Man catalog title to begin the multi LP deal in April. Forgotten Man will include new tracks not available on any previously released CDs by the reggae legend. This initial CD will give the label the ability to begin work on the I Kong account which will then set up releases for future albums by the legendary artist whom is in the studio preparing for a brand new CD to be released later on this year.

"They (Tropical Records) are a highly regarded new record company to bring new I Kong music to reggae music fans. I am looking to having a long relationship with my music and Tropical/Sunset, and I appreciate that Don (Lichterman) works very close with his artists making sure their music hits the marketplace in a major way and on with professionalism," comments I Kong on his new deal.

“Everyone that I know has heard me say that I am searching for a legendary reggae music artist for us to sign at Tropical,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical / Sunset Records, and “we have exceeded anything that I was trying to sign on that level and we have done that in a very big way. The signing of I Kong is one of the best signings of my life and I expect him to see successes for him to stay with Tropical for the remainder of his incredible career.” The label expects some great things by this artist and this deal gives I Kong great resources to have his catalog of recorded music placed in major retail and at major radio.

2009 marks I Kong’s celebration of more than 40 years of making music in the music business, which he started as one of the founding members of the Jamaicans reggae act. Kong's 63^rd birthdays is this year and not only is his Forgotten man being re released in July at Tropical Records, the living reggae legend has plans for a live United States tour this year along with key bookings and placements at major music festivals this year. Initial summer dates will be announced in the next month.

Visit I Kong’s official website at www.IKong.Tropical-Records.com.

MARCH 2009

Reggae Artist Cryout Announces A Very Special Live Show as the pre curser for the new CD being released this summer at Sunset’s Tropical Records.

Well known respected reggae artist, Cryout is playing live to promote his new album, “Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try.”

Cryout merged in the last decade, and rapidly has become one of the more influential music artists of the modern reggae music scene. Along with hardcore reggae legends Burning Spear and Peter Tosh, he is doing his part to keep his overall style to the musical and spiritual influences of hardcore roots reggae artists, showing off natural construction and heavily influenced Rastafarian themes and massages in his songs.

Cryout’s early success came with the release of Cherokee nation back in the early 2000’s. This album still gets constant sales at retail for Don Lichterman’s world music record company, Tropical Records. Extensively considered one of the top modern reggae albums, “Righteous Medication Of The Soul” was immediately surpassed by this sophomore release last year. The single on the Righteous Medication CD was an AOL hit gaining top ten numbers with many songs from that CD at AOL’s Our Stage. Cryout is fast becoming a cultural reggae legend. Cryout continues to release new music this year at Tropical / Sunset with the “Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try,” the spiritually driven, quintessential reggae sounding full length CD. With a catalogue of three albums after this year, Cryout remains one of the most widely respected figures in all of reggae music. The Nothing Beats A Failure But A Try CD hits stores on June 9, 2009.

The following Cryout live show with Rudy Love will be available as live downloads after the show at Sunset Live (www.Sunset-Live.com)

SHOW DATES

4/24/2009 - Kelly's Pub, Wichita, KS (with Rudy Love)

FEBRUARY 2009

The Founder of Sunset Records Opens One of the World’s Most Extensive Animal Friendly and Vegan Related Web Sites

Veg Hed opens its online store providing products never used with animals and strategic partners with activists that are against all forms of animal cruelty.

A New Jersey based organization with shared office space at Sunset in New York City, Veg Hed is now the best resource for “vegan” product and related care products from top brands, and is also set up as a very precise way to find out about pivotal animal activist companies. The company also extended its range of releasing music and video by releasing organic and eco friendly related DVD titles.

Known for its quality of music and innovative record label structure, Sunset is finding ways to use its resources for various forms of activism and awareness. Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset is also the founder of the Sustainable Action Network and the Green Junkee online retail store. Lichterman says, “Veg Hed is an extension within our office and we are doing a series of special markets CDs with a concept of using only music artists that eat veggie every day and artists that are against animal cruelty. This is my way to fulfill my larger dream of being able to do more for humans and animals in this world. Having the ability to promote and distribute products with top retail outlets like Amazon and Target gives us an instant reach at 12% of the online retail marketplace.”

Veg Hed not only will release its own product line, the site brings together other vegan product lines and links to vegan fashion stores. Veg Hed also has up to date information with a few of the top animal activist companies in the world. Without many great resources for shopping for vegan items online, and to gain information about vegetarian living and organizations that do incredible things for wildlife, Veg Hed brings this together on one web site.

Lichterman says, “Unless you are looking for a specific item that you use all the time, using products not tested on animals and using products, let alone products that have no animal product could be difficult to find online and in stores. I am trying to find ways to make this so easy for people to buy these types of products all together in one order. I am also trying to use top brands that manufacturer product without any animals. And, I want to make sure people know they have easy choices to buy every type of product that does not use animals. This is more about awareness and reaching out to a more mainstream consumer while explaining this to them in a very easy way.”

Consumers are able to buy Sunset DVDs and Sunset CDs that are related to wildlife as well as strategically partnered companies with products that manufacturer vegan styles clothing, cosmetics, and clothing along with products from the PETA (People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals) Mall, the ASCAP store, the Sea Sheperd online store and items from the North Shore Animal League. The store is also affiliated with the Dr. Foster and Smith Company to resell their product line.

JANUARY 2009

Sunset Continues To Develop Music Through Its Digital Record Label

Sunset has just launched a digital record label this month, finding, signing and developing music artists with the overall objective of breaking them through its distribution system, licensing network, radio promotion, press and media departments along with its live download company and radio network.

Sunset Connect is the now the backbone for the Sunset Records digital division and moreover, this is one of their best ways for the label to find new music. The label will function as a newly created division at the Sunset record label based in New York City. The label started this month by releasing full length albums by D’Cyple, Obka, Ric Laue, Kan’Nal, Starr Cullars, Cryout, a Cracker / David Lowery type of songwriter from England named Clayton Road; and many compilations that feature popular music artists (The Crystal Method, Fatboy Slim, Sneaker Pimps, Gavin Friday, Eve Gallagher, Boy George, Leftfield, Death In Vegas and more), and will now begin to sign more music every month during this first year.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Records, will run the digital only label during the key launch stages in the first few months, finding new talent and implementing the A&R and lead time administration. The Sunset Connect digital label is set up to develop bands working everything to major radio, press, retail and for licensing opportunities in film, TV and commercials in an automated way. Lichterman’s Sunset Live download company will be run through the Sunset Connect distribution system although it will be a standalone company run by its own staff. The live concert download company has just released a very special live concert by the world famous comedian, Roz (Last Comic Standing, Laff House Live).

Lichterman said about the digital label that it is a convergence of many factors with regard to the landscape of distribution and working music today-- including promotional mailings and mailings for music-licensing opportunities, and today, every aspect of a record label can be distributed to radio, retail, press and licensing companies all digitally -- made it the perfect climate to start Sunset Connect. The label will provide the ability to purchase physical CDs for placement at Amazon, Target and its own CD / DVD Store, through its On-Demand system powered by Amazon’s Create Space.

"We have every aspect of what a record label does for its music artists at Sunset Connect, and working music this way is cost effective for artists that it will no doubt be the standard model for record labels," Lichterman said in a press release with Billboard Media Wire. "We are poising Sunset for that time by starting the label today and at the same time, this label pays its artist 70/30 splits on net sales, which will keep everyone recouped making money every pay period.” Sunset Connect will look to hire a label head and other staff members for A&R acquisitions with the label feeding off the Sunset Records divisions for its promotion, licensing, marketing and administration.

While Sunset Records has made great progress in the last year with its new music – the Federal Moguls (QBall from Bloodhound Gang and Troy Walsh (MTV.com) new project and platinum recording artist Gina Thompson’s new project as run through the main label (Sunset Records and Sunset Urban accordingly) -- the Sunset Connect record label will be committed to developing new talent and up-and-coming music artists. Each of the artists on the label has already released indie albums and Sunset Connect distributes the entire catalogs of these artists. "We have great lee way now to develop new music without getting them thousands of dollars in the unrecouped column, and we can take on so many more projects today," Lichterman said.

Sunset Connects business plan has taken the same shape as the rest of the Sunset labels. There is a perfect mix of brand new talent in with established artist signings that are legends in the industry. Of the new bands, Kan’Nal’s “Gypsy” was the number one song played on the Radio Italia Network last year for a few weeks and D’Cyple’s two songs “My Life” and “Don’t Wanna Be” have broken the top 50 on the Indy Record Pool charts last year and is still being featured in clubs charting every month. Clayton Road also now has two songs in Pure Play’s Music Network and every artist is featured at Pandora. Sunset Connect has digital deals with every top online retailer including iTunes, Real/Rhapsody, eMusic, Amazon MP3, Napster, Shockhound and over 40 outlets. The digital only label does make physical product via Amazon’s On-Demand system making CDs available at Amazon, target and the Sunset Store, however, it will not carry any stock inventory.

Top industry people at major labels and at Indy labels admit there is no set formula for a digital only record label. Lichterman says that he has “found the perfect way to make everyone money and work this music at Sunset Connect as close to what you would do for an artist that has a traditional record deal.” He also was quick to say that the idea of doing this now is almost “overdue, but for us at Sunset, this the perfect time for this type of label considering our label wide rosters at this time. Our traditional label is working like a machine and our artists and staff producer (Rod Millwood) were named on the Grammy Nomination Ballot 68 times leading up to December 5th. We now have the formula to make sure this label works like a cost effective machine and ironically speaking, I could see this label being the one that is the main label as the industry phases out physical DVDs and CDs."

Sunset Live Will Presents The Laff House Comedy Tour in 2009 along with a brand new live Comedy CD by one of the worlds top comedians, Kevin Hart!

Kevin Hart (Soul Plane, Scary Movie, Epic Movie, 40 Year Old Virgin) will release a brand new Full Length comedy album in Spring 2009. The Laff House and Sunset Live are planning a nation wide tour with comedians from BET's Comic Review, Def Jam Comedy Show ion HBO and with Kevin on the bill. Hart is playing three nights at the world famous Punchline Comedy Club in San Francisco from 2/5 to 27/. Kevin's last comedy CD, I'm A Grown Little Man is a top selling CD at Sunset!

all Sunset artists chart on the aol powered our stage last month!

Thirteen (13) Sunset artists broke the Top 100 at AOL's Our Stage for December 2008. Eight (8) Sunset artists broke the Top 50 and four (4) Sunset artists broke the Top 25 for the last month in 2008!

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Sunset Corporate Communications & News Archives - Newsroom 2008 - Click Here.

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