Nightclub marketing opportunity for sale

An exciting website http://www.nightclubmarketing.co.uk/ is an uncompleted project and it is a shame to see it go to waste.

Conceived originally as a resource for UK nightclub, late bars and leisure businesses, venue operators and their staff would have immediate access to suppliers of relevant products and services, artist and performers, recruitment opportunities, advice and information on marketing and promotions plus the latest industry news. The public could find their local venues, to see what's on and gain VIP access or discounted admission.

Whilst work has been done on developing some content on it’s accompanying blog, other business priorities mean that it has not reached its true potential. Headline Promotions, Press & PR are, therefore, offering the domain name for sale.

This can be an outright purchase of the name or, as we have a fully operational website design almost ready for launch, we would sell the name and the website.

If you require a fully operational website for marketing to nightclub and late bar personnel and/or customers but do not wish the hassle of maintaining the site, Headline Promotions Press & PR would be pleased to quote for supplying the content and promoting the site for you, at modest monthly fees.

For an informal discussion without obligation please call John Hicks on 07771 575 654 or e-mail him at john@headlinepromotions.co.uk

Headline Management’s Steve Wood receives international media coverage

Steve Wood featured in EAA journal



Following world record breaking aviator Steve Wood’s confirmation from the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) that he set a total of 29 world speed records in his GlaStar, during the second "four corners" flight around America in 2007 media coverage has been secured around the globe.

That achievement breaks the record for the most FAI world records ever made in a U.S.-registered homebuilt aircraft, exceeding Bruce Bohannon's 28 achieved in his modified RV-4, the Flying Tiger. Steve, whose airplane is affectionately known as GOOFY (N-600FY), flew his first four corners flight in 2005 and continues to set new records.

Headline Management issued a press release through Headline Promotions, Press & PR announcing the FAI recognition. This was picked up by a whole host of media but Steve was particularly pleased that the US’s premiere aircraft association’s magazine, the EAA featured him in this month’s issue.

Steve is represented in Europe by Headline Management of Basingstoke, England http://www.headlinemanagement.co.uk/




Read the article on-line: http://www.eaa.org/news/2008/2008-03-20_goofy.asp

Resort of Okinawa brings death to its golden beaches

Drive hunts return to Okinawa

Okinawa is the southernmost prefecture of Japan. It occupies the southern part of the Nansei (Southwest) chain of islands which stretches over 1,200 km from the southern tip of Kyushu to within 100 km of Taiwan. Okinawa prefecture consists of around 160 of these islands, 46 inhabited.

The prefecture takes its name from the largest and most populous of the three groups of islands that form it, the other two being the Miyako and Yaeyama group. The Okinawa group is centered on the largest island in the prefecture, Okinawa Island; the Miyako group on Miyako Island; and the Yaeyama group on Ishigaki Island.

But don’t be misguided by the tourist guide image.

The city has recently re-commenced dolphin hunting. Nago hunted dolphins 20 years ago but the barbaric practice was stopped due to opposition by conservation groups and bad publicity the city received for allowing these hunts. However, the practice is still alive, as a small percentage of fishermen still retain licences to kill dolphins.

A few days ago, around 100 dolphins appeared off Nago Bay which resulted in six boats setting out to sea and the fishermen driving the dolphins into the bay, where they were slaughtered. This is a sad reflection on Japan’s attitude towards the continued and rising international condemnation of drive hunts in the country.

Despite the fact that the number of dolphins killed in this instance was lower than the hunts conducted in Taiji where the number of dolphins slaughtered reaches in excess of 20,000, the practice is equally inhumane and unnecessary.

Yet the world stands by and does nothing. One marine conservation charity has spoken out. The Marine Connection (www.marineconnection.org) condemns this expansion of drive hunts in Japan and is calling on the authorities at Nago abolish the hunt with immediate effect. But will the world listen?

Just don’t go there on your holidays!




Further information can be found at www.marineconnection.org

For media-related inquiries, contact The Marine Connection:
Janja Novak
Campaigns Development Officer
Marine Connection
00 44 (0) 20 7602 1574
Email: janja@marineconnection.org

The Marine Connection is a London-based charity, working both nationally and internationally for the welfare, protection and conservation of dolphins, whales and porpoises - from the smallest to the largest species, they all need protecting. One way the charity achieves this is through a mix of campaigning, education and research. The Marine Connection has achieved – or contributed to – many important victories for dolphins and whales, however whilst an actively campaigning organisation, education and research also play a vital part of the charity’s conservation work. One of the charity's main objectives is to ensure everyone understands the importance of protecting these marine mammals and their natural habitat.

Internet radio hits the mainstream

Internet radio hits the mainstream, so says an article published on guardian.co.uk on Monday January 28 2008.

The article says that more than 8 million people in the UK listen to web-based radio services every week and nearly 2 million download podcasts on a weekly basis, according to a survey that suggests internet radio has hit the mainstream.

Commissioned by the industry's audience research body Rajar, the Ipsos Mori survey last autumn found that more than 12 million people have listened to the radio online and 8.1 million listen every week either through live streaming or "listen again" services.

Ipsos Mori found that 75% of users do not listen to less live radio as a result of listening again online, with 50% tuning into new shows as a result.

The same was true of podcasting, with one-fifth of respondents saying they now listen to more live radio and nearly one-third saying they listen to new radio shows after sampling them via podcasts. Only 8% of those surveyed said they listened to less radio because of the availability of podcasts. Of the 4.3 million who have downloaded podcasts, around 1.87 million people listen to at least one podcast each week. Two-thirds of podcast listeners subscribe to their favourite shows through iTunes, with nearly half tuning in during the evening. Of these, 80% listen through their computers and 61% copy the podcasts to their MP3 players.

Music and comedy are the most popular genres, with each user subscribing to more than three podcasts, on average, and listening to 53 minutes each week.

"This survey is very much a toe in the water," said the Rajar research director, Paul Kennedy. "Although we already knew that listen again, personalised online radio and podcasting had many advocates, we knew nothing of their standing in the mainstream.

For Headline Promotions, Press & PR client CMR Nashville Radio, this is good news. Station Manager Lee Williams said: “This survey proves what we in the radio industry already knew! We have had over a million hits over the last 12 months and the rate of increase in our listenership shows no sign of diminishing.”

PR template for events and launches

Communication Plan & Event Exposure

I was recently asked to advise on devising a communications plan for a major event.

You would need to consider how the profile of the event is to be addressed, with marketing and public relations activity highlighted and costed as necessary, which will ultimately feed into the projected revenue figures.

An event PR plan should be written down and should include:

* A description of the “market” for the event, for example:
Who is the target audience? The profile of the target audience/potential attendees. For instance, are they already dedicated fans, enthusiasts, or casual participants? The geographical elements of the target audience. For instance, are they local, regional, national or international?

* A marketing plan outlining the objectives on pricing policy, advertising and promotion and target audience for the event;

* Sources/requirements for sponsorship – financial or services (from hair stylists for photo-calls to host venues)

* A public relations plan for raising the profile of the event locally, regionally, nationally and internationally as applicable; design of a media kit for quick response to enquiries;

* The image of the event that is to be portrayed to the public including the involvement and use of celebrities;

* The communication campaign in detail – from advertising and press releases through to social networking e.g. Facebook and MySpace;

* PR input into corporate or event website(s) and links to news coverage worldwide;

* How public awareness will be monitored;

* How media opportunities will be identified - and the anticipated exposure from all media outlets - television, radio and press incorporating:
.....National broadcasters – likely provider and extent of coverage incorporating any minimum requirements (such as free-to-air exposure/peak time programming etc.)
.....Overseas broadcasters – source, guarantees to be (or already) provided to the event organiser and/or hosts; and
.....Requirement for broadcasting sponsorship rights including the impact on event exposure and other anticipated partners;

* Detailed PR management “on the day” of events;

* PR budget with accountability and authorisation processes for budget lines.

Photos: Headline Promotions team out with the VK Balloon Team

What’s On in Basingstoke on New Year’s Eve?

IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
Basingstoke, Hampshire UK
27th December 2007.

What’s On in Basingstoke on New Year’s Eve?



New Year’s Eve is a family affair at The Academy Basingstoke when adults will be treated to a disco and a performance live on stage by a top party band, 60’s pop legends Marmalade. But children are not forgotten as there is a childrens’ disco in the Function Room.

Over the last year, the Worting Road venue has seen an amazing array of celebrities –including household names such as Paul Young, Toyah Willcox, Spike Edney and George Hamilton IV – performing at the family entertainment venue. There have also been some of the top tribute bands performing the music of an equally wide range of stars, from George Michael and Madonna through to Queen and Meatloaf. Plus, of course, local bands and upcoming pop singers such as Natalia have also been given the opportunity to showcase their work.
So, it is only fitting that they end the year with original stars who will treat the audience to a polished performance including some of their top ten hits such as ‘Ob La Di Ob La Da’, ‘Falling apart at the seams’, ‘Reflections of my life’ and ‘Cousin Norman’.

The show starts at 8pm with a disco from DJ Ivan Axford taking it through to 2am close. The childrens’ disco is for 8 years of age and older.

Tickets are available priced £15 for the show, £25 for VIP tickets to include a full Chinese buffet and glass of Champagne, and £5 for the childrens’ disco are available from the club.


Further information is available at http://www.academyclubs.com/ or by telephoning 01256 327273.

ENDS



Note to Editors

There are three Academy's currently in the South - Basingstoke, Boscombe and Eastleigh. All operate 24 hours, 7 days a week, and offer extensive Snooker, Pool and Nine Ball. Uniquely to The Academy venues, they now show live premiership football on Saturday & Sunday afternoons. In addition to this, professional Darts are available as well as huge satellite screens with surround sound showing live sporting events. Discreet but loaded fruit machines offer maximum payouts and that all-important thrill! The Sport Bars with their light refreshing décor offer a variety of entertainment for all ages, definitely not to be missed! The Basingstoke venue also boasts a function room and superb Chinese Restaurant.
(http://www.academyclubs.com/).




Media enquiries to:
John Hicks M.IDM
Headline Promotions, Press & PR
Mobile: 07771 575 654
Fax: 0707 520 9717
john@headlinepromotions.co.uk
http://www.headlinepromotions.blogspot.com/




This press release was distributed through PRESSBOX: http://www.pressbox.co.uk/detailed/Entertainment/What_s_On_in_Basingstoke_on_New_Year_s_Eve__163782.html

Taxation specialist in Indian sub-continent appoints Europe PR consultancy

TaxAcademia of India has announced the appointment of UK-based Headline Promotions, Press & PR as its European marketing and public relations consultant.

Mr V.M.R.Vincent (pictured above) is the proprietor of TaxAcademia offering professional management & advisory solutions in indirect taxation of India. Mr. Vincent has a statutory qualification as ‘Authorized Representative’ to represent clients before the Departmental authorities and the Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunals in the whole of India.

Mr Vincent, a leading indirect taxation expert in India, made the announcement in Bombay following discussions with John Hicks, Managing Director of Headline Promotions, Press & PR.

In view of the complicated taxation problems faced by the UK & European multi-nationals in respect of their operations in India on account of constant changes in Policy and Law, the firm has now decided to offer its expert management & advisory services to the global clients. Mr. Vincent has the benefit of over 20 years of intense professional experience in implementation of Central Excise, Customs & Service Tax laws in most part of India viz. Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Union Territories.

Mr Vincent’s expertise will be of particular benefit to :

i) Manufacturing industries
ii) Service and Financial Industries
iii) Marketing & Distribution entities
iv) Import-export clients
v) International Traders
vi) Policy makers on international taxation
vii) Legal Advisors and Consultants

The expert services are provided in respect of independent and ancillary manufacturing units, 100% Export-Oriented Units, Free Trade Zone Units, Hardware & Software Technology Park, Bio Technology Park, Special Economic Zone units, prescribed under the Foreign Trade Policy of India from time to time.

The management & advisory services embrace the following areas amongst others:
1. Assistance in initial setting up of business units in India
2. Facilitation in obtaining statutory registration from respective Tax Departments, maintenance of statutory records, filing of periodical returns, CENVAT and VAT credits scheme, special permissions and representation to Government on specific issues
3. Professional advice for adoption of correct Transaction Value for the purpose of tax assessment along with statutory abatements, if any, and latest case laws
4. In respect of import-export activities, expert advice in respect of the most beneficial scheme under Advance Licence, Advance Authorization, Duty Exemption Entitlement Scheme, Duty Free Replenishment Scheme, Duty Exemptions Pass Book Scheme, Export Promotion of Capital Goods Scheme, 100% Export-Oriented Units Scheme, prescribed under the Foreign Trade Policy of India from time to time as well as Special Economic Zone units
5. Comprehensive Revenue Risk Assessment Audit and statutory compliance
6. Day-to-day monitoring of changes in laws, notifications, policy, procedure, and dynamic evolution of case laws
7. Training package to the management professionals for critical compliance and assimilation
8. Complete handling of dispute resolution by representing matter before the departmental authorities with defence submissions, filing of Appeals and arguing the case before Commissioner (Appeals), Appellate Tribunal, Settlement Commission, Central Board of Excise & Customs, etc
9. Special study on industrial problems and effective representation

The role of Headline Promotions, Press & PR will be to raise the profile of the practice and to facilitate easy access to their specialist advice. It is hoped that Mr Vincent will be a regular visitor to Europe during 2008 to undertake personal consultations and to speak at important import-export business events.

Mr Victor Vincent may be contacted direct at: vmrvincent@rediffmail.com. The website www.TaxAcademia.com is under construction presently.

All media enquiries to john@headlinepromotions.co.uk. Invitations to speak at conferences or seminars should also be addressed to John at this e-mail address.

Press release published through Pressbox

Michael Jackson live at The Academy

IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
Basingstoke, Hampshire UK
18th December 2007.

Michael Jackson live at The Academy



The performer Navi, who has appeared alongside the legend himself, will bring his Michael Jackson tribute show back to The Academy Basingstoke this Saturday evening.

This is not Navi’s first visit to The Academy as he entertained at the venue earlier in the year and was so well-received that he was invited back for a Christmas special.

Navi has travelled extensively around the globe performing in over 100 major cities, his show is truly world class. He has received global exposure on many TV networks and his involvement in this field has ranged from interviews to adverts, pop videos to film appearances and magazine front covers.

In the VH1/MTV documentary “The fabulous life of Michael Jackson”, Navi was credited as Michael Jackson’s ‘clone’, this was aired across their global network.

Navi’s greatest achievement was being a decoy for Michael Jackson on several occasions. He has also performed in front of Michael Jackson in New York (2002) and had the honour of being the opening act at Michael’s 45th birthday party in Los Angeles (2003) in which he received a standing ovation from the man himself. After being invited as a guest, Navi visited ‘Neverland Ranch’ the following day.

Tickets are available priced £10 on the door (over 18’s only); there is a discount of £3 for members of the club. Further information is available at http://www.academyclubs.com/ or by telephoning 01256 327273.

ENDS



Note to Editors

There are three Academy's currently in the South - Basingstoke, Boscombe and Eastleigh. All operate 24 hours, 7 days a week, and offer extensive Snooker, Pool and Nine Ball. Uniquely to The Academy venues, they now show live premiership football on Saturday & Sunday afternoons. In addition to this, professional Darts are available as well as huge satellite screens with surround sound showing live sporting events. Discreet but loaded fruit machines offer maximum payouts and that all-important thrill! The Sport Bars with their light refreshing décor offer a variety of entertainment for all ages, definitely not to be missed! The Basingstoke venue also boasts a function room and superb Chinese Restaurant.
(http://www.academyclubs.com/).

Navi’s website can be found at: http://www.kingofpop.co.uk/




Media enquiries to:
John Hicks M.IDM
Headline Promotions, Press & PR
Mobile: 07771 575 654
Fax: 0707 520 9717
john@headlinepromotions.co.uk
http://www.headlinepromotions.blogspot.com/

Christmas Eve treat for Windsor clubbers

Okay, so it's not a Wednesday, but WOW! Wicked on Wednesday season at Chicago Rock Cafe Windsor ends the year with news that hearthrob PC Will Fletcher from The Bill, is to see his Christmas Day in at the popular nightclubs and bar.

Well, actually it is actor Gary Lucy, a firm favourite with fans who have followed his TV career right from "Hollyoaks" through "Footballers' Wives" to his current success in ITV's hit series "The Bill".

He will be joining customers at Chicago's on Christmas Eve to help everyone get into the festive mood, complete with a disco through til 2am.

We hope to see you there!

Media enquiries to Headline Promotions, Press & PR

Gary Lucy to see Christmas in at Windsor venue

Hearthrob PC Will Fletcher from The Bill, is to see his Christmas Day in at Chicago Rock Cafe Windsor.

Well, actually it is actor Gary Lucy, a firm favourite with fans who have followed his TV career right from "Hollyoaks" through "Footballers' Wives" to his current success in ITV's hit series "The Bill".

We hope to see you there!

Media enquiries to Headline Promotions, Press & PR

Snooker legend Willie Thorne takes to the road

Snooker legend, Willie Thorne, is to offer sports venues the opportunity to participate in his unique "WT-UK Tour 2008".

Sports venues can take the opportunity to build customer loyalty, raise their public profile in a very positive way and to reach a new audience by engaging in Willie's UK Tour next year.

It is planned as a series of day long events - limited to 12 in number across the UK - where Willie will spend time through an exhibition and tricks shots, coaching Masterclass sessions and acting as the after-dinner speaker at evening dinners (possibly as charity fuindraisers to support the venue's favourite local cause).

He would be available for media interviews prior to the day to give publicity to forthcoming events and pre-event PR would be handled by Headline Promotions, Press & Public Relations.

All events would all be listed on Willie's website: http://www.thegreatwt.co.uk/.

Don't miss out - to book your special event with the living legend that is Mr Willie Thorne please call John Hicks 07771 575 654 or e-mail him john@headlinepromotions.co.uk

Headline Promotions goes global with Dr Planet

Steve Hennessy is Dr. Planet and he has always had his head in the stars!



An entertainer of international experience for 38 years Steve has developed "Dr. Planet" - a combination of musical culture and curriculum-based information on the solar system.A parent and former school board member he is keenly aware of the need to supplement the subjects taught in school with material that is innovative and fun.

Dr. Planet captures the children's imagination with cleaver lyrics, catchy songs that combine useful information with having fun. Music is a common denominator that can be used to convey subject material as well as the pure enjoyment derived from listening and participating.

As a world traveled and now, interplanetary musician Steve has found the response to music is the same everywhere, creating an impact that has no bounds or limitations. Music presented in a variety of styles and forms also enhances the discovery of the art itself.

Combined with curriculum based subject matter makes it all the more special.

Steve lives with his wife and family at his spaceport nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. He is currently planning a tour of Europe in 2008 and has enlisted the support of the well-respected Headline Promotions, Press & Public Relations agency in the UK to pave the way for that exciting new development in the exposure of Dr Planet to a whole new audience.

John Hicks, Managing Director of Headline Promotions said: "Dr Planet plans to continue to update his travels through the solar system on his website which Headline Promotions, Press & PR will help promote across Europe! We are delighted at this opportunity to work with such a renowned, globe-trotting, educator and entertainer".

Further details about Dr Planet can be found at http://www.dr-planet.com/


This article first appeared in Basingstoke Business News - November 2007

Award Winning US Comedian Don Barnhart appoints UK Management

IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
Basingstoke, Hampshire UK
November 21st 2007.


Award Winning US Comedian Don Barnhart appoints UK Management

Basingstoke-based performer management and representation agency, Headline Management, has been appointed by the 2007 winner of the American Idol Comedy Contest to trailblaze for a planned tour of Europe in 2008.

A resident of Las Vegas, DON BARNHART JR is an award winning comedian, author and filmmaker.

He is the 2007 winner of the American Idol Underground's Big Push 2 Comedy Contest and recently wrote, directed and stars in the independent film, "China Dolls".

Don is also a contributing author on the book , "I Killed: True Stories of the Road from America's Top Comics". He can be heard regularly on The Bob & Tom Show, XM and Sirius and was seen frequently on MTV, Friday Night and An Evening at The Improv.

He is a regular headliner at the top comedy clubs across the country like The Improv and Punchlines.

Don also tours regularly for The USO and Comics On Duty entertaining the troops around the world. He has also been a guest speaker for such top corporate clients as DARE, Prudential, PartyPoker.Com and Alanon.

A graduate of the infamous Second City Conservatory Program in Los Angeles, Don has written, produced and directed several sketch shows and comedy DVD's along with writing several original sit-coms and feature films.

Venues wishing to book Don are invited to contact Astrid at Headline Management (www.headlinemanagement.co.uk) on 07881 708975 or e-mail her on astrid@headlinemanagement.co.uk

ENDS


Note to Editors:

Check Don out at:
http://www.donbarnhart.com/Don Barnhart's WebsiteDon Barnhart on MySpaceDon Barnhart's Company - Chucklehut EntertainmentDon Barnhart's Feature Film - China Dolls





Media enquiries to:
John Hicks M.IDM
Headline Promotions, Press & PR
Mobile: 07771 575 654
Fax: 0707 520 9717
john@headlinepromotions.co.uk

http://www.headlinepromotions.blogspot.com/
http://www.headlinepromotions.co.uk/
http://www.headlinemanagement.co.uk/

Headline Promotions negotiates special deal for radio advertisers

Advertising and Sponsorship on CMR Nashville Radio
– across Europe, the US and Canada



Headline Promotions, Press & PR are pleased to announce a special deal for clients’ campaigns booked with CMR Nashville Radio by 21 December 2007.

The promotion is suitable for performers wishing to promote new albums or businesses wishing to reach audiences in Europe and the US/Canada.

CMR Nashville recently celebrated its first year broadcasting 24/7, featuring the best mix of Country Music from over 20 presenters from around the world, by welcoming its millionth visitor to their ever-popular website.

They pride themselves in covering all styles of Country Music and reflect the popularity from various parts of the world with programmes from our studios in the USA, England, Ireland, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Brazil and Scotland.

To celebrate their first Birthday they have extended schedules and included four new shows from the USA, and the UK.

Take a minute to look at their new schedule on their home page, and see the vast variety of shows to suit all tastes. They have today’s Country, Classic Country, Americana, Bluegrass, Texas Music, Indie Country, Irish Country, and Australian Country along with so much more. We also make it possible for most shows to be repeated at different times to suit various time zones around the world. CMR Hot is their other 24/7 service broadcasting non-stop country hits without presenters.

Internet Radio listeners have increased world-wide and Internet Radio is now globally accepted by the industry and public alike. The growth of stand alone Internet Radios have also increased in sales, with over 20 models available with prices as low as £40 UK for some basic models.

We have just been invited by Nokia Phones to have both CMR Nashville and CMR Hot added to their Internet Radio network of stations that are now available world-wide to their mobile phone users. This also means that with the use of Bluetooth you can listen to your favourite radio station in the car. This will again increase the listeners to Europe’s #1 Country Music Service.


CD Promotion for Artists and Labels
Budgets can be tight for promoting a new CD with various media outlets available. So, we are offering a month’s promotion for £300 ($600). You will receive the following…

· A 30 second commercial played at least 100 times
· A banner on the site with the album sleeve with a click through to your site.
· Album of the week featured in the Album Zone show, with a full track played each weekday of that week. The album sleeve featured on the home page as part of the 3 albums picked for that week.
· Interview with one of the presenters to back up the promotion

Sponsorship of a Programme by commercial sponsors
CMR Nashville Radio have a wide range of various programmes each week of various styles of Country Music and now some of the programmes come from other countries including Australia, Ireland, Brazil, Germany and soon Spain and France. Current sponsors include The Tennessee Tourist Board, Just Tennessee, The Americana International Festival, Guilfest, Acoustic Energy, Mad Gold, FM Footwear, and Paragon Associates

The cost is £100 ($200) per hour per week with a minimum contract of 13 weeks. You will receive the following…

· A 30-second commercial made or we will use one you may already have, and this will be played a minimum of 100 times in each month.
· A banner on site, with a click through to your site for the duration of the contract.
· Your name will be associated with the programme and will be added to all schedules with a click through to your site. The presenter will talk up your company or product within the programme and refer to the sponsorship at each junction. Competitions or promotions can also be included in the shows.

All commercials will also be played on their other radio service CMR Hot, which will mean you will get a further 100% plays included in the price. CMR Nashville and CMR Hot have just been added to the Nokia Mobile Phone Internet Radio Service available on all Nokia Phones.

Each package will include a press release announcing the promotion. This will be distributed across the music industry and the worldwide web by Headline Promotions, Press & PR free of charge!

Destination Basingstoke for Dutch singer from the US

PRESS RELEASE:

Tuesday 13th November 2007

Basingstoke UK

Destination Basingstoke for Dutch singer from the US

She is beautiful. She is a singer. She is hugely popular. She is from Holland. She currently works in the US. She has a new CD on sale now. And she is on her way to Basingstoke.

Dutch singer Shannah has really found her mission by performing, writing, and singing having worked with several rock’n’roll, 60’s music and country bands since she was 17 years old but a passion for country music has brought out her song writing skills to great effect.

Shannah has appeared in a number of DVD recordings, major shows, radio/magazine interviews and now her new CD "Don't Move” from which she is hoping that "Mi Destino" will be released as a single later this year. In the meantime, this popular singer will appear on the stage of The Academy in Worting Road, Basingstoke on Saturday 24th November when she makes a special guest appearance.

Shannah’s website is a huge hit on the worldwide web and can be viewed at Shawn Harvey from the US and blind Christian singer Tony Frost from the UK are also making guest appearances.

This spectacular show is a fundraiser for The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, the only charity in the UK dedicated to defeating lung cancer which is surprising considering that lung cancer is the biggest cancer killer of both men and women. Despite this, they receive neither government nor lottery funding for their research and, therefore, rely very much on the goodwill and support of the public, including support from events such as this special event.

The Academy Basingstoke, on the Moniton Trading Estate in Worting Road, is the area’s only 24 hours, 7 days a week, Snooker, Pool and Nine Ball centre and live music venue. The doors open at 8pm and goes on til late with live DJ entertainment from special guest DJ and MC, Lee Williams. Admission is a £5 donation to the charity. Further details are available on the Academy website (http://www.academyclubs.com/).

ENDS

Note to Editors There are three Academy's currently in the South - Basingstoke, Boscombe and Eastleigh . All operate 24 hours, 7 days a week, and offer extensive Snooker, Pool and Nine Ball. Uniquely to The Academy venues, they now show live premiership football on Saturday & Sunday afternoons. In addition to this, professional Darts are available as well as huge satellite screens with surround sound showing live sporting events. Discreet but loaded fruit machines offer maximum payouts and that all-important thrill! The Fun Bars with their light refreshing décor offer a variety of entertainment for all ages, definitely not to be missed! The Basingstoke venue also boasts a function room and superb Chinese Restaurant.(http://www.academyclubs.com/).

Further details of the charity are available at: http://www.roycastle.org/

Tickets are available on-line at www.academyclubs.com

Media enquiries to: John Hicks M.IDM

Headline Promotions, Press & PR

Mobile: 07771 575 654Fax: 0707 520 9717

john@headlinepromotions.co.uk

Author Greg Waggett appoints media consultant

Author Gregg Waggett is pleased to announce the publication of his first book "In My Blood".

A true story, this book is about a man drawn into the world of private security and logistics after he is forced to quit his business. He encounters different cultures, searing temperatures, bombs, menacing officials, and the threat of expulsion.

An erstwhile warlord in Africa becomes an unlikely ally. At one point, he is arrested, escapes – but is then faced with an agonising dilemma.

There are many lighter moments, too. His fascinating and vivid accounts are written with verve and pace. They take you not just to Iraq, but also to Libya when it was a rogue state, Kuwait, East Africa and the Sudan. In summary, ‘a rich account, skilfully blending a life in security with military tactics, political commentary, travelogue and high comedy’.

Much more than a ‘bang-bullets-and-blazes’ story, this book is a must-read with broad appeal.

Greg Waggett’s enthusiasm for experiences abroad was kindled by an overland trip to Nepal in 1970, a time when going through places like Afghanistan and Iran was comparatively staightforward.

Following this, he joined the British army, firstly as a rifleman, then as an infantry officer. He left after eight years which saw six tours in Northern Ireland, and worked in Libya in agri-business operations for another eight years. (He was in Tripoli, the capital, when the US carried out punitive bombing raids in 1986 – a dramatic and terrifying event which is described in one of the book’s chapters.)

After his time in North Africa, he set up and ran a design and advertising agency in Cambridge.

Two fundamental changes in circumstances led to him working overseas in the insecure world of private security in 2004.

The book, published by Oak Publishing, is a compelling read and is available from them or direct from Greg's website.

Media relations for the publication are being handled by Headline Promotions, Press & PR of Basingstoke.

Read about Greg's book in The American Chronicle - November 2007

RASASC - PR and media relations for a not-for-profit organisation

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre is a charity, founded in 1992, with the aim of helping male and female survivors of rape or sexual abuse across Surrey. Clients can talk in confidence using the Helpline or through attending individual counselling sessions or same sex group self-help meetings.

Guildford-based RASASC provide a confidential and caring range of services to anyone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual abuse, whether recently or in the past. Sexual abuse can affect people in many different ways. Often there is no one for the abused person to turn to, no one with whom to share their feelings. Sometimes it is easier to talk to a skilled helper. Someone who can be relied upon to listen carefully and sympathetically, without making judgements.

Headline Promotions, Press & PR are delighted to support the admirable work of this invaluable charity by providing PR and media relations support.

Our initial work has been to come up with a ten-point action plan for 2008 which we are steadily working our way through with the help of staff, volunteers and management.

No faking it for rock fans in Basingstoke

IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
Basingstoke, Hampshire UK
2nd November 2007




No faking it for rock fans in Basingstoke

The Academy Basingstoke is featuring rock music’s current talking point, “NEVER THE BRIDE”, live on stage on Saturday 17th November 2007, back by popular demand.

Never the Bride's Nikki Lamborn and Catherine Feeney first met on stage at a jam session in a London pub.

Instant rapport and a similar taste in music and direction, lead to more jamming before Nikki from Bristol and Catherine, better known as Been, from Glasgow, formed a song writing collaboration.

Nikki commuted to write, gig and busk in Covent Garden. Never the Bride was born and the duo built up a core following around the capital.

Their live reputation went from strength to strength and big support slots followed from The Who, ZZ TOP and The Pretenders. After successfully supporting The Who, a personal call from Roger Daltrey lead to Nikki and Been joining Daltrey, Alice Cooper, Paul Rodgers, Peter Frampton and a few more rock gods on The British Rock Symphony Tour. The band toured the UK, Europe and Australia with the Orchestra, making a huge impression with their interpretation of Led Zeppelin's Kashmir and Stairway to Heaven.

Their first performance at The Royal Albert Hall is a key moment in Nikki and Beens' lives. Roger held up both their arms and said to the audience who were going crazy, "What d'ya reckon then? Nikki Lamborn has the best female rock voice since Janis Joplin and I know what I'm talking about, I knew Janis."

"After The Rock Symphony Tour ended in Australia, we decided to stay awhile and write some songs," explains Been. "We did a Thelma and Louise, rented a car and drove across the country drinking tequila in small bottles.”

"The money had run out by the time we reached Sydney, but luckily it was around the time of The Olympics and there were lots of people to entertain. Our busking skills paid for the song-writing trip and some of those songs are on our album, Surprise!"

Nikki's powerful presence and strong vocals has been described as Tina Turner and Robert Plant rolled into one. Her incredible voice came under the spotlight while coaching a Cambridge choir girl in the ways of rock for Channel 4's “Faking It” series.

Been, keyboard player and occasional guitarist, is the main composer behind the songs that, together with Nikki's voice, make Never the Bride unique.

Other band members include Murray Gould on guitar, who has played with Elton John, Dido and Faithless, and Greg Harwood on bass, who has played with every one from Ronan Keating to James Brown. Drummer John Tonks repertoire includes Steve Winwood and the Sugarbabes.
As a response to their growing fanbase worldwide, the band have recorded a DVD rockumentary, entitled For Richer For Poorer, highlighting life for a rock band on the road both at home and abroad.

The band may have been one of rock’s best kept secrets but, following widespread exposure as Dame Shirley Bassey reached the charts at number 10 with a cover of their song “The Living Tree” and they appeared with her at Glastonbury earlier this year, they are playing selected dates across the UK, including The Academy in Worting Road Basingstoke. Visit www.neverthebride.com for details.

This event is sponsored by Mad Gold Barbados Rum which is a firm favourite amongst rock fans but is growing in popularity generally as more and more bars and venues across the UK are putting it on their shelves.

Full details of this event and other original artists appearing live at The Academy in 2007, alongside their popular tribute band shows, are available on the venue’s website (http://www.academyclubs.com/) which is updated regularly or by telephoning 01256 327273.

Tickets are priced £10 on the door.


ENDS


Note to Editors

There are three Academy's currently in the South - Basingstoke, Boscombe and Eastleigh. All operate 24 hours, 7 days a week, and offer extensive Snooker, Pool and Nine Ball. Uniquely to The Academy venues, they now show live premiership football on Saturday & Sunday afternoons. In addition to this, professional Darts are available as well as huge satellite screens with surround sound showing live sporting events. Discreet but loaded fruit machines offer maximum payouts and that all-important thrill! The Fun Bars with their light refreshing décor offer a variety of entertainment for all ages, definitely not to be missed! The Basingstoke venue also boasts a function room and superb Chinese Restaurant.
(http://www.academyclubs.com/).

Further details of “Never The Bride” can be found at http://www.neverthebride.com/
Photographic images are available on this site.

Further details of Mad Gold Barbados Rum can be found at http://www.mad-gold.com/






Media enquiries to:John Hicks M.IDM
Headline Promotions, Press & PR
Mobile: 07771 575 654
Fax: 0707 520 9717
john@headlinepromotions.co.uk
http://www.headlinepromotions.blogspot.com/

Charity fundraising tribute to Cliff Richards and The Shadows

Charity fundraising tribute to Cliff Richards and The Shadows

“Stars In Their Eyes” contestant Jerry Richards followed up his television performance by appearing at Sir Cliff’s 60th birthday party at the Dorchester Hotel in London and will shortly appear live on stage at The Academy Basingstoke together with The Evening Shadows to raise money for the Roy Castle Lung Foundation.


This spectacular show, on Saturday 24th November, also includes, direct from the US, rock’n’roll and country singer Shannah (pictured above) who was born in Holland but who is pursuing her career Stateside. Shannah will be performing tracks from her recently-released album.

Also supporting the main act is singer/songwriter Tony Frost who managed to progress through several stages of television’s “X Factor”. His repertoire is endless and he has entertained many different audiences with R&B, New Age, Jazz and Soul and his mentors, the great Terry Callier, Josh Groban, Marti Pellow and Michael Buble.

The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is the only charity in the UK dedicated to defeating lung cancer which is surprising considering that lung cancer is the biggest cancer killer of both men and women. Despite this, they receive neither government nor lottery funding for their research and, therefore, rely very much on the goodwill and support of the public, including support from events such as this special event.

Jerry’s musical career started at the age of 8 when his father taught him some guitar chords. Later an aunt asked him to sing Cliff’s ‘The Next Time’ - no doubt feeling he would be able to make an impressive rendition. These events helped to set Jerry on the way to many years of music and singing and, of course, with his natural voice being so like early Cliff.

Jerry’s first band was State Patrol which saw him singing and playing guitar. In 1994 he appeared on Granada TV’s ‘Stars In Their Eyes’ as Cliff singing ‘The Young Ones’. Around the same period he was with a Shadows band called The Reflections alongside ex. Shadow Alan Jones (coincentally, with whom I worked in the 90's when I organised a cancer charity gig with the legendary Bruce Welch).

He later teamed up with The Evening Shadows, and during this time appeared at many venues including a Shadows event at The Bonnington Hotel in London playing to an appreciative audience which included some members of The Shadows past and present.

In the later 90’s when The Evening Shadows ‘retired’, Jerry got a new Shadows band together known as The Shadz.

Along the way Jerry has often guested with other bands and musicians, and has been asked on numerous occasions to do guest and solo spots at a variety of functions and events.

Now back with the recently re-formed Evening Shadows the future’s looking busy for Jerry as one of the finest early Cliff performers.

The Academy Basingstoke, on the Moniton Trading Estate in Worting Road, is the area’s only 24 hours, 7 days a week, Snooker, Pool and Nine Ball Hall and live music venue. The doors open at 8pm and goes on til late with live DJ entertainment from special guest DJ and MC, Lee Williams.
Admission is a £5 donation to the charity. Further details are available on the Academy website (http://www.academyclubs.com/).

Further details of the charity are available at: http://www.roycastle.org/

Tickets are available on-line at http://www.academyclubs.com/

Country music radio station is selling ice to Eskimos!

I do like success stories, especially English businesses doing well in this adverse economic climate so the success of internet radio station, CMR Nashville, led by the human equivalent of a cat with nine lives, Lee Williams, is a tale worth telling.

A year ago, Lee (pictured left, with me) and I shared a coffee and doughnut (neither of us had started our diet then, and the truth is, we still haven’t!) and he told me of his plan to establish the world’s leading country music radio station. I was sceptical as I knew that Lee had worked on several projects to develop a country music radio station and they had never quite worked out.

So, what was different this time? Well, it was the internet. Previous projects had to bear the huge costs of either hiring analogue radio frequencies or renting space on satellite TV platforms. These huge costs made making money a huge nightmare. The increasing sophistication of the internet meant that broadcasting costs were slashed.

So, I wished Lee well and, because we share a passion for live music, especially country music of all genres, we have kept in contact. My only query was whether or not listeners in the US and Canada would like to tune in to country music on a European radio station.

CMR Nashville, available on www.cmrnashville.net, is now celebrating its first year of broadcasting 24/7, featuring the best mix of Country Music from over 20 presenters from around the world. They rightly pride themselves in covering all styles of Country Music and reflect the popularity from various parts of the world with programmes from their studios in Tennessee, London, Ireland, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Brazil and Scotland.

The play the best of today’s Country, Classic Country, Americana, Bluegrass, Texas Music, Indie Country, Irish Country, and Australian Country along with so much more. They also make it possible for most shows to be repeated at different times to suit various time zones around the world.

So, how have they done? Remarkably, CMR Nashville has recently reached its first millionth visitor, with the monthly figures steadily rising each and every month. That is impressive by any standard.

The fact that a large proportion of listeners are in the US and Canada is equally impressive. It’s like selling ice to the Eskimos but the proof is there in the listener statistics!

Lee is excited about the future. Internet radio listeners have increased world-wide and Internet Radio is now globally accepted by the industry and public alike. The growth of stand-alone Internet Radios shows little sign of slowing with over 20 models available at prices as low as £40 UK ($80 US) for some basic models.

For CMR Nashville there is a new and exciting development opening up new opportunities for listeners and advertisers. Nokia Phones have added CMR Nashville and CMR Hot, their sister country releases show broadcasting 24/7 without DJ’s, to their Internet Radio Service. This is a network of stations that are now available world-wide to their millions of mobile phone users. It also means that, with the use of Bluetooth, people can listen to their favourite radio station in the car. This will again increase the listeners to Europe’s #1 Country Music Service.

David Allan, a hugely respected UK journalist, TV and Radio Broadcaster is quoted as saying: “CMR Nashville offers the most satisfying all-round programming. It’s my idea of a good country radio station, hugely enjoyable and entertaining (Country Music People magazine November 2007).

Congratulations to Lee and his team. I look forward to another successful year of broadcasting American music back to America!

This article also appears in John's blog in The Telegraph newspaper, London.

and in the American Chronicle syndicated series