“SolAce and the Silver-screen Shine”

(I Used to Love Her)

by SolAce

Not since awaiting the release of Batman Begins have I been so excited to attend a movie! Yet this was not simply being a in a crowded audience to see a movie created by a big-budget movie production house but carried far more significance because it was THE formal premiere of a movie that I not only know the creators of but was intrinsically involved with.

The movie is “I Used to Love Her” by Mark Harris III and is a love story addressing the challenges of dealing with the desire for creative and romantic idealism amidst an imperfect system and world. The movie premiered in theatre 6 of the stadium-style seating of the Magic Johnson ICE Chatham 14 Cinema and my involvement with the film surpassed even my expectations I later came to find!

Even with this, the irony of the matter is that, due to family obligations, I STILL found myself unable to attend the premiere that I had been so anxiously anticipating. Nevertheless, I ended up not being the only on anticipating the release, as the premiere garnered such interest that it ended up being completely sold ot, leaving many to sit on the stairs and others to be turned away who hadn’t purchased their tickets in advance!

As such, the production and promotion team made the decision to add two more screenings, much to my pleasure, and it was these subsequent shows I was able to make. The second screening was last Sunday and it also proved to be a sold-out event that left a few standing in the side aisles and sitting on the stairs to view. With the anticipation of seeing that finished cinematic product, nothing could quite prepare me for what happened about 20 minutes into the film. The screen went black and the next voice I hear was… my own, followed by a close-up of my face while singing my song “Remembrance (Memoria).” As the movie showed me singing the opening lines to the chorus, the camera slowly panned to the right and then enlarged the shot to reveal the smaller version of my band, including my bass player, Wendell, and two of my background singers- Willie “Big Will” Wilson and Dinah Torres.

As the view changed to that of the main characters in the club’s hallway, my song could still be heard in the background until the view was switched to that of a neo-soul band, performing live. I am honored to say that, out of all of the bands filmed for the DVD extra features, I was only one of two bands used throughout the entire movie! Needless to say, the experience was exhilarating due to the anticipation I had already built and the unexpected nature of the surprise.

And to make me feel even more special, after the movie’s conclusion, I was called down by name to stand in a panel of the movie’s actors and actresses during a question and answer session! Therefore, I can do nothing but thank the director, Mark Harris III, for considering me for this cool opportunity and for Simeon “Simbo” Henderson for always recommending me musically, although he is an upcoming future entertainer in his own right!

For more information on “I Used to Love Her,” please visit the 555 FilmWorks MySpace page. I will also make sure to post any additional information regarding further screenings of the film and distribution of the DVD, because it is here that I was filmed performing “Remembrance (Memoria)” and “In the Club II: Move!” for the Special Features section of the DVD. Until then, I’ll be on the lookout for YOU on the silver screen!!

Click on the thumbnails below to see the full-size image (Opens in new window)

SolAce and the Marquee	The I Used to Love Her Poster	Check out SolAce's Name in the Credits!
SolAce Worrying Mark Harris III :-)	SolAce and the Lead Actor	SolAce and the Always-Funny Simbo
SolAce and THE Poster	My P.A. Carly and THE Poster ;-)	SolAce and Actress Ayisha
My BG Singer Will	Simbo and the Production Assistant Theresa

SolÅce's Green Acres… Part II

By SolÅce

August 26, 2007

Let it not be said that I, SolÅce, do not keep my word! As promised, I managed to make it back to Table Grove before summer's end for another fun-filled performance at its Bernadotte Café. As expected, many of those in attendance were different but the vibrancy of the owner, support of the staff, and enjoyment of the crowd didn't seem to change at all from the last time that I was there.

Since my last performance at the café was primarily filled with ballads and mellow numbers, I made the decision to have a little more fun with the audience this time around. Although I still performed keyboard-based tracks, I made the decision not to sit this time around but stand for the entire show so that I could dance around and get the audience more into the spirit of the festivities!

My show was a combination of cover tunes and original works. As an artist, I was most vocally proud of my rendition of George Michael's "One More Try" and Prince's "Purple Rain," but also enjoyed to see the tremendously positive audience reaction to my own songs such as "BÅby GirL," "DanceHallology," and "Remembrance (Memoria)." My manager said that this was the best show that he has ever heard me perform vocally and I take that as a big compliment because I would LIKE to believe that I am improving with every effort.

After the approximately two-hour performance, which left the audience dancing to No Doubt's "Hella Good,"  I then made my way to my manager's farm for some down and dirty farm work! Just teasing. I took in the sites, as you can see above, and enjoyed the nature of the evening before driving back to the city with my personal assistant.

I had a wonderful time in good old Table Grove and am proud to be seen as one of their new musical traditions! Who knew that an R&B Musician from Chi-town could move an audience of a farm town that first requested he only sing Country and Blue Grass music?!

SolÅce

www.SoulofSolAce.com

www.myspace.com/soulofsolace4u

..> ..>..>..>..>..>

Some fun shots of SolÅce's last Bernadotte Appearance	Let's Make that Money Son! :-P
SolÅce plays his own backing keyboard for the show	Grass-roots promotion at its finest!
SolÅce takes in the sites of the country	SolÅce being silly on the farm's tractor
SolÅce and his cute personal assistant Carly	SolÅce "Working Hard" on the farm!! :-P

Lights, Camera, Action… SolÅce!!

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

August 19, 2007

Although SolÅce is not completely nascent to the independent movie-making industry, it is still always exciting for him when any director expresses interest in having his music appear in a soundtrack. As such, there was an increased level of excitement when SolÅce was not only contacted to have two of his songs appear in an upcoming movie that is currently in production but to then be asked to appear within the movie itself!

Yes, the film shoot for SolÅce is now over and he patiently awaits the release of the feature-length work. The movie is entitled “I Used to Love Her” and is a story of love overcoming social and religious boundaries written and directed by the talented Mark Harris of 1555 Film Works (look them up on MySpace!!).

One of the locales that the main characters frequent within the movie is a nightclub of which SolÅce plays one of the main performers. Even though there has been no promise that SolÅce will appear in the film itself, we ARE happy to state that footage of his performances will be contained within the DVD’s “Special Features” section!!

For this Special Features section, SolÅce performed his latest club song “In the Club II: Move!” and the multi-award-winning “Remembrance (Memoria).” He looked to not only captivate the audience with an emotionally stirring performance of his bilingual ballad but also by adding an energetic dance-break that left those on set applauding with his song “Move!”

As such, the film shoot was a smashing success and marks the first time that SolÅce has had his live performance recorded for a feature-length film, though “Remembrance” has already appeared in two prior independent movie soundtracks.

As usual, we are very proud of SolÅce’s performance and excited about the prospect of many more such opportunities to come! Furthermore, we would like to thank those who were integral to the success of this recording such as the lead background singer Willie Wilson, the bass player Wendell McCaskill, the secondary background singer Dinah Torres, and SolÅce’s personal assistant Carly Swartz. Thank you all for your dedication, time, and friendship!!

www.SoulofSolAce.com

www.myspace.com/soulofsolace4u

The Director Preps the Scene & Lighting	The Cinematographer Prepares for the Shoot
SolÅce Feels the Emotion of “Remembrance”	Power Ballad = Key Change!! :-)
SolÅce Shows How to Dance in the Club!	SolÅce Truly “Gets Down”
The Band Huddles in Preparation…	TRUE; the Local Rapper Who Performed Before SolÅce

Thanks to Director Zack Snyder, most of the world now knows the story of “The 300”
valiant stand against tyranny but it is the 10,000 that I would like to acknowledge right now! :-) When my friend Derrick of “In Chi-Town Magazine” first told me that MySpace was a great way for independent musicians to promote their
music, I thought that he was exaggerating and therefore waited a year after his suggestion to even create a MySpace page and even longer before I finally decided to take things seriously, update my page, and add music.

Needless to say, the path to where I am now has been an amazing journey. I have met people from all around the world
that I never dreamed I’d meet. From cool cats in England who never they’d like R&B, awesome fans for another group in Australia who lavished me with their support, cute supporters in Japan/ Asia, and, of course, the sexiest ladies that the world has to offer from Chi-town to L,A,, England, France, and all around the globe!

But, just when I thought that things were going well, MySpace made the decision to shut me down and, with about 3,000 fans/friends, I had to close my doors and start all over again! When I re-started, I felt as though an important part of my world had
been taken away from me, but I stayed optimistic, tried to contact my old fans/ friends and regain new ones.  Needless to say, things picked up but then, because I was sending out so many friend requests, MySpace again tried to shut me down and left me without the ability to send friend requests.

Again, I was saddened but figured that, if my music meant so much to me that I hoped it would touch people enough for them to make the decision to add me on their own. Nevertheless, nothing could have prepared me for the amount of awesome support that you all have given me. And I never thought that, just a year later, I would be here with 10,000 fans/ friends!

I do not know the statistics, but most of you may not realize that there are only a handful of Independent Artists on MySpace who have more than 5,000 fans/ friends much less 10,000 so, to have such “numbers” is a great honor to me and I do not take it with arrogance but with humility. As such, I look forward to an exciting summer of musical adventures and activities that I can share with you and many more fans/ friends to come.

I truly thank you for all of the support you have given me thus far. Know that I do not take it for granted and that I will be working hard to be the best Independent Artist you will ever come across on MySpace.

Musically,

SolÅce
www.SoulofSolAce.com

SolÅce Gets Classical…

By SolÅce

July 30, 2007

Even though I have held to the rule for the last few years that I will no longer perform unless I will be getting paid or will have the opportunity to sell multiple CD's at a particular venue, I still hold to the belief that the artistic community should support one another, regardless of the financial reimbursement. As such, on Sunday July 30, 2007 I headed down to Macomb, IL with the simple task of supporting an artist in song…

 Yet, my musical support was not in the way that most of you may be imagine me lending. I say this because I did so WITHOUT singing one single song! Lisa- the C.E.O. and primary artist of Techstyles Inc., a custom-design rug creation company, recently relocated her headquarters from Chicago down to Macomb, IL. The move was facilitated in order to be closer to family but, as such, now means that she has to break into a new market with a bang!

 How better to do so than with a major presentation of her artwork? As such, it was an exciting opportunity for her to be presented with a chance to have her amazing artistic rugs be presented throughout the lavish mansion of a couple in Quincy, IL. Having supported me in the past by brining multiple friends and relatives to my show, Lisa asked if I could return the favor by simply lending a hand (or better yet two!) to set the ambience for the posh affair.

 Of course I accepted and could think of no better way than to set the mood than with the music I grew up playing… Classical. I played a series of Mozart minuets and variations, along with Beethoven Sonatas, Sonatinas, and piano-based ballads of my own and other artists.

 As a matter of fact, I got so carried away by the endeavor that I ended up playing for three straight hours- the duration of the entire art showing! Music is one of the most joyous parts of my life so doing so was nothing. Nevertheless, I am happy to say that the event was a success for my artist friend and I took great joy in knowing that the beauty of music helped to make this a reality!

SolÅce

www.SoulofSolAce.com

SolÅce Playing Mozart for the Guests	SolÅce and the Lovely Mrs. Cherrington
SolÅce and the Talented Designer	SolÅce, the Hostess, the Designer, and SolÅce's Manager
One of the Designer's Unique Creations	Another of Lis'a Creations
Not the "Typical" SolÅce Poses with the Host Family	Some of the Guests Discuss the Artwork and Music

SolÅce’s Green Acres?!

by Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

When one thinks about SolÅce, it is rare that farm animals, green acres, and crops come to mind. Nevertheless, while taking a breather in the country this past weekend, SolÅce made the decision to share his musical skills with the receptive small-town audience of Table Grove, IL on Sunday, the first day of July 2007.

The decision for SolÅce to perform came at the last minute but the venue was set on Saturday for him to do a set of music at the Bernadotte Café- the only restaurant within a small fishing town, adjacent to the Spoon River.

 

For an audience that prefers to hear Bluegrass and Country music, the turnout and support of SolÅce’s mostly-reggae/ R&B set was so pronounced that he found himself needing to stop midway through his set to personally autograph CD’s for audience members for close to 30 minutes! And the fanfare continued afterward, almost making SolÅce late to retrieve his passageway back to Chicago.  

 

Leaving with a smiling face from not only his unexpected new fan base, a energetically comical dancing restaurant owner, and a wonderful talapia sandwich lunch, SolÅce has been invited to return and perform at a much larger venue this summer and is strongly considering doing so. Maybe “Green Acres IS the place to be!” :-)

 

P.S. For those of you who live within the Macomb area, SolÅce’s CD is now available for sale at the Capitol Records store in the heart of downtown!

 

Click on a thumbnail below to view a larger image from this unexpectedly fun event!

SolÅce poses with one of the owners	The Cutest Dancer There
SolÅce by the Pond	SolÅce Reflects on Nature
SolÅce autographs his CD	SolÅce Soulfully Sings
Not the "Typical" SolÅce Fans

Written by Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

We are happy to announce that the Drop Hit Records compilation CD to which SolÅce was accepted to be a part of on June 9, 2006 has finally been released! The release came as a pleasant surprise after a couple months of delays and shipping problems. Nevertheless, the compilation has been manufactured and SolÅce is delighted to be a participant in this promotional effort with his sultry track, "Prelude-2-Å-Kiss!"

Although the release is sure to reach thousands of listeners, it is unavailable for "public consumption" and sale. The compilation CD is actually a tool designed and targeted for radio promotion of artists only. Therefore, it will be distributed to numerous college, professional, local, regional, and national radio stations in an effort to expose the talent that Drop Hit Records has discovered and gain much-needed radio play for the independent recording market.

Therefore, if you happen to live near a region that airs "Prelude-2-Å-Kiss," please do not hesitate to call-in your request!  Until then, we thank you for all of your continued support of "Prelude-2-Å-Kiss," the "RedempXn" CD, and all of the works that have been released by SolÅce thus far!!

Bezaleel Entertainment has teamed up with  Pollo al Carbon, one of Chicago's Premiere Restaurants, to not only bring you SolAce's signature sound but the great cuisine of Chef Luciano!! Thanks to the head Chef and owner, you can now find SolAce's promotional material throughout the entire restaurant.

Pollo al Carbon and Chef Luciano have agreed to display SolAce 's signed head shot and a 2 foot by 2 foot display of the "RedempXn" album cover within the restaurant, play his music periodically, and have the promoted CD available for sale to any customer!!

 Chef Luciano has been serving his Gypsy style of gourmet cuisine in Chicagos South Loop since 1991. Chef Luciano uses only the finest quality of chicken, shrimp, fish, and fresh vegetables in his kitchen. Additionally, he utilizes only the freshest herbs & spices, such as garlic, rosemary, and basil. Our mission is to cook healthy, gourmet food at affordable prices. For this reason, Chef Luciano exclusively caters to carry-out clientele, enabling you to enjoy fine cuisine in the comfort of your own home.

Chef Lucianos signature item include: Spicy Jerk Chicken served with Plantain, Baked Chicken marinated in Garlic & Herbs Pollo al Carbon Caesar Salad with Chicken or saut��ed Shrimp, Black Beans, Red Beans & Rice, and fresh Stir fried Vegetables. I serve what I enjoy eating say Chef.

Chef Luciano has two entrance located along Cermak Rd. The first entrance takes you to Pollo al Carbon where the focus is on serving its signature Pollo al Carbon spicy baked chicken served with Pilav Rice & Red Beans, Fried Whole Tilapia, Fried Gourmet White Fish, Farm Raised Fried Catfish, Fried Calamari, and Fried Chicken Wings. Only fresh herbs and botanicals are used in preparing all of the Gourmet Foods.

The second entrance, located two doors east of Pollo al Carbon, is where you will find Chef Luciano. Here, the focus is on pure olive oil cooking; nothing is deep fried in this kitchen. Featured dishes includes Linguine or Angel Hair Pasta with Marinara, Olivio, Alfredo or Pesto sauces with Shrimps or Sea Scallops, Jerk Chicken with Plantains, Black Beans, fresh Salmon, Tilapia Fish Fillets, Cajun Catfish Fillets, Fresh Chilean Sea Bass, Spicy Lamb, Spicy Ground Turkey, Lentil Soup, and lots of fresh vegetables. Or, if you prefer Chicken, we offer Premium Chicken, Chicken Piri Piri with Okra, and so much more to choose from. Follow the menu link to see all of our wonderful offerings. There is so much going on in our kitchen - stop by and taste our rue Gypsy cuisine.

"SolAce: The EmancipaXn Debut!"

by Jefford "SolAce" Humes

          Even amidst heavily promoting one project, a musician will let you know that, everyone once in a while, a song idea comes along that affects you so much emotionally that you cannot but be stirred to create it! Such is the case with my latest song "EmancipaXn (Emancipation)." Marking my 216th musical creation of 218, "EmancipaXn" comes as a unique gem amidst the other songs that I treasure.   

          What sets "EmancipaXn" apart, though, are the same elements that I hope draws a new group of listeners to my music while preventing current ones from being pushed away. In my current CD project, my focus is on delivering R&B-styled vocals, midst intricate melodies interspersed with beat-driven instrumentation. In "EmancipaXn," I find myself not only drawing upon the production style I have developed on the "RedempXn" CD but hoping to musically and vocally expand my sound to new horizons, achieved by the incorporation of more organic instrumentation and a live un-quantized delivery. Achieved is what I believe to be one of my most powerful productions to-date!         

          Apart from the differences in production technique, "EmancipaXn" also delves into new ground lyrically. As the title would imply, my latest song encompasses the topic of freedom. Yet, the freedom discussed is not only a description of the physical one achieved through the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863 . No, the freedom dealt with is also that which comes as a spiritual effect of turning one's life from sin's shackles to a liberating righteousness through God. Indeed, the song deals not with light matters, such as picking a girl up in the club or the physical attraction toward her but is rather hoped to catalyze and nourish social and spiritual discussions of what "freedom" truly is . . .

 "EMANCIPAXN (EMANCIPATION)" IS SET TO DEBUT HERE

AND ON MYSPACE IN MID TO LATE AUGUST 2006!!

Credits:

"EmancipaXn (Emancipation)" was completely composed, produced, arranged, and performed by me, Jefford "SolAce" Humes, with lyrics written by me as well. The background music was recorded at Bezaleel Entertainment's ConstanSound Studios, of Chicago's South Side, on June 16 and 21st, 2006. The background music was later mixed at Studio Chicago of Chicago's North Side, on July 1st, in the exotic Studio A. After this, studio B was utilized to initiate the vocal recording session, which was completed on July 24th, immediately followed by the overall (background music AND vocals) mixing session, the same day. Mark Yoshizumi served as the processing and mixing engineer for the background, vocal, and overall mixing sessions. The song was later "inflated" (ALMOST mastered :-) by Dave Feltenberger on July 31, 2006.

The following is a transcript of an article written about SolÅce from Chicago's July 12, 2006 Hyde Park Herald newspaper:

"Hyde Park R&B Singer

Finds Own Musical Style"

By Amanda Koger

Contributor

Hyde Park Herald- July 12, 2006

SolÅce is a UniSong Finalist!!

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

We are happy to announce that SolÅce has been awarded the distinction of being a finalist for the 2005 Unisong International Songwriting Competition! The award came for his R&B classic entitled “Prelude-2-Å-Kiss” and is a special honor because only 20 finalists were selected. This has led to SolÅce's song being featured on their website. (Unisong International Competition Site )

“Prelude-2-Å-Kiss” is the seventh track off of SolÅce’s sophomore project “RedempXn (Redemption)” and deals with the passion evoked by a simple kiss. It is, by far, the most provocative track on the “RedempXn (Redemption)” CD but still approaches the topic with a sensitivity and romanticism of such precedents set by Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, and Stevie Wonder.

Just as “Rememberance (Memoria)” before it, “Prelude 2-Å-Kiss” has been garnering songwriting credibility for SolÅce. This is now the third distinction that the song has provided for SolÅce and we hope/ know that many more are to follow. As such, join us in congratulating SolÅce on yet another unexpected musical achievement!!

More information on the Unisong International Songwriting Competition:

Back in 1996, songwriter Alan Roy Scott (Music Bridges), publisher David Stark (SongLink International) and songwriter/promoter Brett Perkins (Brett Perkins Presents) set out to create a different kind of song contest. The 1997 Unisong International Song Contest was the first truly international song contest created "by songwriters...for songwriters”.

Unisong's Grand Prize is consistently unique among song contests. Past Unisong Grand Prize winners have had the opportunity to write with the likes of Burt Bacharach, Peter Buck, Jimmy Buffet, Gary Burr, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Stewart Copeland, Rodney Crowell, Lamont Dozier, Mick Fleetwood, Peter Frampton, Indigo Girls, Montell Jordan, Gladys Knight, Lisa Loeb, Me'Shell Ndegeocello, Joan Osborne, Lee Roy Parnell, Bonnie Raitt, Brenda Russell, Andy Summers, Don Was, and many others at "Music Bridges" retreats organized by Unisong co-founder Alan Roy Scott.

We've also made sure our entrants' music gets in front of people who matter. Previous Unisong judges & friends include: Lamont Dozier, Diane Warren, Bonnie Greenberg, K.C. Porter, Dave Koz, Peter Frampton, Fee Waybill, Allan Rich, Randy Bachman, Lester Sill, Don Grierson, Andrew Gold, Barry Mann, Randy Sharp, Harriet Schock, Mike Stoller, John Braheny, Michael Jay, Jorge Corrante, Don Was, John Kalodner, Bruce Lundvall & Desmond Child, Pat & Pete Luboff, and Dan Kimpel among many.

Drop Hit Accepts SolÅce’s “Kiss”! :-)

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

          Now don’t let the title of  this article cause you shock and alarm; SolÅce has not gone the way of Nelly Furtado’s new song and become a “promiscuous boy!” :-) No, the kiss of which we refer is none other than his song “Prelude-2-Å-Kiss.”

On January 19, 2006 we wrote an article entitled “ To Compilate or Not? That is the Question,“ which detailed some of the musical opportunities that SolÅce was being considered for. One such opportunity involved inclusion onto a well-known CD compilation by Drop Hit Records. For the last 13 years, Drop Hit Records has sought out a selected number of unsigned recording artists for inclusion onto their CD compilation.

And this projected is not uselessly created nor is it simply done for the joy of having multiple recording artists share their craft with one another. On the contrary, this compilation is a promotional tool that has been used to effectively promote up and coming artists on a nationwide level, in hopes of garnering attention of the artist and the Record Label as the source for finding the future stars of tomorrow!

It is for this reason that SolÅce was hoping to be a part of this project but was a little disheartened to find that, though his song was enjoyed by the staff, he had to be waitlisted until all entries were received. Therefore, SolÅce was overjoyed by the news that his project was finally, formally accepted!

SolÅce is one of only 80 finalists to be considered for appearance on this prestigious compilation CD and only one of 10 Sonicbids members to receive the distinction! As such, please join us in congratulating SolÅce on his latest achievement and in the hope that his inclusion on the project will lead to far more exposure than we could ever hope for…

THE TOWER OF POWER

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

This is just a quick note to let you all know that, due to the awesome negotiating skill of SolÅce’s management, Tower Records has agreed to carry ALL of SolÅce’s projects within their on-line AND retail stores throughout the nation!

Therefore, Tower Records will carry his 2002 self-entitled CD “SolÅce,” the 2004 single “Remembrance (Memoria)” AND his latest project “RedempXn (Redemption).” So, if you want an alternative to purchasing through our On-Line Store… just look to the TOWER!!

Links to SolÅce at Tower Records (Click Below):

1.      RedempXn (Redemption) 

2.     Remembrance (Memoria)

3.     SolÅce

Spring finally appears to be formally here within 2006 and, as the flowers blossom, the grass grows, and new fauns are born, it also means that the season has come for many to take a vow of unity and love before God and selected witnesses. In light of the powerful symbolism that marriage holds, SolAce was no less than honored to be asked to perform his song "The Marriage Blessing," at the wedding of Judy and Shaun Green in Madison, Wisconsin on April 15, 2006. SolAce passionately performed his work prior to the reception's toast by the Best Man and was met with unexpectedly thunderous applause along with quite a few teary eyes. May their matrimony truly be blessed and filled with a happiness only few have known!

SolAce originally composed "The Marriage Blessing" during a night of inspiration only days before the wedding of one of his closest high school friends. That summer, SolAce was asked to play and sing an original composition at the wedding and was initially prepared to sing a song entitled "Wish I Could," which can be found on his debut project. Though the bride and groom enjoyed this song and were looking forward to its performance, the bride let it slip that she and the groom were hoping for a song that was more spiritual in nature.

Taking this concern to heart, SolAce soon found himself searching for a way to compose a more spiritual song that expressed the symbolism of marriage and his hope for their success. At this moment, SolAce realized that all of his desires could easily be summed up if he simply encapsulated the song within an element that was created for just such expressions- a prayer. With the prayer created, SolAce then sought out Biblical sciptures that described the significance of marriage and decided to quote them directly within his composition. It was then, on that late Thursday night that the "The Marriage Blessing" was created for a Saturday performance (yes, "necessity is the mother of invention!")

With experience in four independent films, multiple stage plays, a starring role in a few musicals, and serving as a dancer in the half-time show of the Super Bowl and other shows, it may seem as though SolAce has indeed been in training to become a "paisa vasool" within what can be considered the world's most prolific film industry- Bollywood!! Though this may be the case some day, we must admit that SolAce has no such plans to "take India by storm" but may soon be seen nationally within that country in the near future.

By what can amount to no more than fortuitous coincidence, SolAce is set to appear in a commercial for a national campaign for Unilever's new Sunsilk Shampoo line. Unfortunately for us in America, the nation that this campaign will be geared toward is India! Within the commercial, SolAce acts as a biochemist/ microbiologist who is working to extract fruit nutrients in order to place them into a new Sunsilk product. And though the chemical solutions were nothing more than colored water, the fruit made of synthetic material, and the laboratory was constructed in a cafeteria, SolAce's excitement of being involved in such a major production was completely real!

As such, one of the most exciting parts of the shoot was the fact that SolAce had the opportunity to work along side of the Indian actress and singer Manasi Scott. Ms. Scott is the beautful entertainer who played a lead role within the Indian soap opera "Millee," has released three albums, the last of which is an Indi-Pop album entitled "Naach Le" that has climbed as high as number 3 on the Indian charts, and who has been reviewed as a "pakka Indian Britney Spears" and "India's answer to J-Lo." As such, it was a great honor for SolAce to appear beside one who has achieved many of the dreams that he aspires to still accomplish.

There has been no formal confirmation of the date in which the Sunsilk commercial is set to be aired but there will be a screening of the recording at Unilever Home and Personal Care in Rolling Meadows, IL once the editing has completed and we at Bezaleel Entertainment will make all efforts to catch a "leak," if at all possible.

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

We realize that it may have seemed as though not much was happening within the Entertainment world for SolÅce BUT, if you thought this was the case, you couldn’t be any more wrong. . . As is often the case in the “music biz” one goes through stages of waiting in expectation for great things to happen and we are happy to say that they now are!

With that said, take a look at the latest review received from the President of one of the nation’s premiere booking and talent agencies- Brower Entertainment:

Review:

Name:  SolAce
Genre:        R&B/Pop
Sounds like:        ?
Scores (1 - 10 ascending)
Technical Grade:        8
Commercial Value        10+
Overall Talent Level        10+
Songwriting Skills        10
Performance Skills:     ?  
Best Songs:        "In The Club II" and "Prelude-2-A-Kiss"
Weakness:        Music doesn't sound mastered to me

Other comments:

You definitely have it!!!!  I love your look.  Your photoshoot is off the chain!!!  Your songwriting skills are great.  The only fault I could possibly find is that the music didn't sound mastered to me which took away from the excitement.  I may be completely wrong but that what I thought I heard.  After reading all the accolades in the review I believe my expectations were really high once I began to listen to the music.  "Remembrance (Memoria) didn't grab me much like In the Club II did.  That song is hot!!!  I can see a lot of different scenarios of people/club DJ's/promoters grabbing on to that song and running with it.  Prelude-2-A-Kiss does the same.  These are both great dance songs with strong motivation.  On "In the Club II" I couldn't help but imagine what a live show with great choreography would look like.  I imagine the crowd going wild!   Prelude-2-A-Kiss definitely makes you move "and I'm not a mover".  Overall you have a great look, pretty darn good sound, professionalism is present and great reviews.  Great! for you!!!  

End of Review

IMPORT ...

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

Are you into hot cars, hotter models, and the hottest music from SolÅce’s latest project “RedempXn”? If your answer to this question is “yes” then we invite you to attend the cool… better yet HOT event that SolÅce has been invited to be a part of!

The event is Hot Import Nights and will take place this Saturday March 25, 2006 from 6:00 p.m. ‘til midnight. SolÅce has been offered a booth at this exciting annual, one-night-only event to be held in Chicago’s famous McCormick Place Convention Center.

There, he will be able to showcase his latest project and, if you stick around long enough you may be in for his special performance on the main stage at this urban, tuner-car extravaganza. So, if you’re up for taking the chill off of this cold new Spring, come on down at support SolÅce this Saturday night!!

SolÅce Performs at US Cellular Field

for the Annual  Walter Payton Auction

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

Performing a selection of low-key piano-based ballads, SolÅce crooned for a two-hour period on Saturday night, including such original songs as Remembrance, BÅby Girl, and Slow Song and cover tunes such as One Love, Tiny Dancer, and The Night Time’s the Right Time/ Heartbreak Hotel.

The venue was none other than the World Championship White Sox’s US Cellular Field VIP Suite and the event was the Annual Walter Payton Magnet College-Preparatory High School Auction.  Established to supplement funding for the high school’s budget, the auction proved to be a financial success and was attended by numerous local figures, including two Alderman, four members from the Super Bowl Winning Chicago Bears/ teammates of the late Walter Payton himself, and other reputable attendees.

Having performed at the event last year, SolÅce was excited to receive a call asking for his return, as the event leads to a nice amount of exposure for an up-and-coming artist seeking to expand his breadth of fans. As such, even though he was not the center of attention, SolÅce went to put on a highly esteemed show that was later praised by many in the audience and received something he still has not grown accustomed to… Tips :-)

In the end, a fun night was capped off by a wonderful dinner and the knowledge that SolÅce helped serve a worthy cause…. The funding to help educate our future leaders!

“SolÅce Considered one of

‘December’s Top Songwriters’!”

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

What a pleasant way to enter an evening! After an arduous day of work and musical production, SolÅce was a little disheartened but then immediately happy to receive the following bitter sweet news.

In mid-December of last year, SolÅce entered his bilingual single “Remembrance (Memoria)” to the Song of the Year competition. The bitter or sad part of the tale is that SolÅce’s entry did not win for the month that he entered  And, sadly, this means that he is no longer within the competition. To remain within the competition, one winner is selected every month until those finalists are judged for an annual prize.

Nevertheless, the part of the tale that did lift SolÅce’s spirits and that we are proud of is to state that he was given an Honorable Mention and has been posted on the Song of the Year website. SolÅce joins a select handful of musicians, as being one of “December’s Top Songwriters!”

In a message sent to SolÅce, the following was stated, “though your material did not place in the top 5 within it’s respective category, your material was still quite impressive. You did make our Honorable mention list [which]… means that the preliminary judges and/ or professionals offering the critiques have found your submission exceptional for… lyrics, melodies, music, etc… If a Song of the Year receives a lot of positive responses from our judges about a song, you will be place[d] in the Honorable Mention category.”

Once again, please join us on congratulating SolÅce on his latest accomplishment for we know that far more positive accolades and recognition are yet to come!!

CONNECT TO SOLÅCE TOLL-FREE

Would you like to place a phone order for a SolÅce CD, video, or performance, contact Bezaleel Entertainment in order to get information about an upcoming show, fax in information, or simply contact us with your question or concern?

If your answer to any of these questions is “yes” or “maybe,” we are happy to announce that you can now connect to SolÅce toll-free!! The new number is as follows:

(866) ENTER-1-2

(866) 368-3712

LET THE PROMOTION EXPLOSION BEGIN!!

No matter how great the musician he or she will never succeed if no one is ever able to hear the music that they create. Some of the greatest musicians are failures not due to lack of talent but simply because enough people did not hear their music to allow their artistic to become financial viable and credibly widespread. It is for this reason that SolÅce now realizes the dire need to be externally promoted as greatly as possible because he does not desire to have his greatest work fall by the wayside…

For this reason we are happy to announce that his online EPK of SolÅce has been selected to receive a most promising promotional opportunity through CWW Enterprises based right out of Chicago IL. The following is the letter that was sent to SolÅce and a description of the company. Once again join me in congratulating SolÅce in this latest musical achievement and to the start of a New Year that he prayed would be his most exciting to date…

Hello!!

Thank you very much for your EPK submission to CWW Enterprises.  CWW digs what you are doing and would like the opportunity to spread more of your music to the world!!  Please contact me asap via e-mail or by phone to schedule an initial consultation so that I can get a better idea of what your needs are.  Thanks again, and I look forward to hearing from you soon!  :-)

Regards,
Michele L. Whitney
CWW Enterprises

CWW Enterprises Marketing & Promotions Services 

Want more exposure for your music??
Want your music to be heard by an untapped market but just don’t have the time to make it happen??
What good is your music if nobody hears it??
CWW Enterprises can help…

Based out of Chicago, IL, CWW Enterprises takes a "personal approach" in the development and promotion of artists. We cater to the artist that desires to increase exposure of their music, but may not have time to put a lot of effort in getting their music heard. A personal consultation, which includes image consulting, goal setting, bio preparation, promotional expectations and publicity needs, target market identification, and periodic strategy meetings is included with each package.

Artists should have professional quality music (in either mp3 format or on CD) and professional quality photos to work with. CWW Enterprises can also provide professional writing services including biography preparation and press releases.

Our acts have gained global exposure as well as local opportunities for performance at venues such as the Apple Store on North Michigan Ave.

All services will be discussed in more detail at initial consultation. Although the core services are web-based, other services can be added based on the artist’s needs.

ENTER THE VIDEO REALM

WITH SOLÅCE!!

By Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

Have you ever come to the SolÅce website and just felt as though “something” was missing but wasn’t quite sure what it was? Well, if you couldn’t put your finger on the matter, we think that we know what you were wanting… VIDEO!!

Yes, we would like to invite you to join us in opening one of the most exciting pages of the new “Soul of SolÅce” website, the www.SoulofSolAce.com/Video.html page. Here, you will find up-to-date clips from the latest SolÅce performances that you will be able to stream or download from ANY location.

We at Bezaleel Entertainment know that SolÅce is far more than a “recording artist” or “stage singer.” He is also an actor, dancer, choreographer, and stage pianist but you may never know these things unless you saw him live.

Well, whether you are in Chicago or in Japan and have not been able to make it to a performance, now is your time to experience SolÅce “live”! We hope that you enjoy this new page and the many recent updates that have been made to the site in general. As usual, we thank you for your support and again wish you a Happy and blessed New Year!!

To Compilate or Not?

That is the Question

by Bezaleel Entertainment Staff Writer

The announcement that will now be made is, unfortunately, bitter/ sweet, with the sweet not being as sugary as we would like… but it could be! Confused? Well, in keeping with the normal tradition of delivering bitter/ sweet messages, we will begin with the bitter...

Unfortunately, SolÅce’s song “Remembrance (Memoria)” has not been selected to appear on the “Best of Drop Hit 2006 Compilation” CD that he was hoping to be a part of. Yes, you may all sigh sadly now. The good news, though, is that he was wise enough to submit two songs for consideration and the alternate was… well… that is what we are here to discuss.

The song is “Prelude-2-Å-Kiss” and it is the beat-driven, seductively suggestive track 7 of SolÅce’s latest CD “RedempXn.” We would love to say that the song has been selected to definitely appear on the Compilation CD but can now only say that it almost has. The song is currently in what is called “Standby.”

This means that, of the entries that have been received, the song is considered one of the most likely to be added, comparatively. Unfortunately, it is still possible that SolÅce’s “Prelude” will be bumped from the compilation. More information about this can be found below but, for now, all we can ask is that you keep your support strong for good times are just around the corner!!

The following is the letter sent to SolÅce regarding their selection of “Prelude-2-Å-Kiss” and information about the compilation CD:

Your submission has been reviewed and has been chosen for final consideration.

The status of this track has been moved to "Standby"

Once our second round of reviews comes up, and tracks are assigned to the comp, you will be informed as to the final status of this submission.

Thanks again and good luck!
DropHit.net

CONFERENCE  WATCH 2006

Yes, SolÅce  has had quite enough of dancing around the apartment to his own music while the world outside looks cold and lonely. On the contraire, he would like thousands of onlookers and listeners to be dancing around to his music in their… parks??!! J

Indeed, the time has come in which artists all around the nation and globe, for that matter, are preparing for those wonderful summer festivals and conferences. The purpose and possibilities of each festival or conference is unique unto itself but there is one common motif that cuts through it all: if accepted to be a performer, you will have the opportunity to be not only heard but seen by thousands of new onlookers and fans.

And what narcissistic star-wannabe wouldn’t want that, right? This is what we have asked SolÅce  and he has taken the challenge to perform in at least six conferences and or festivals between now and the Fall!! In other words, he would average one festival or conference a month, allowing him to perform in six different parts of the globe, as if he were U2 seeking to sellout 90 shows within 2005 (yes, they DID do that)! Okay, even we know that SolÅce  is nowhere near U2 sell-out status… yet… but we believe that he can be one day.

Therefore, below and above are images of the conference/ festival icons that SolÅce  hopes to be a part of. All that we ask is that we lend your support and visit one of the shows when SolÅce  is performing in an area near you. As usual, we will update this site on the status of his endeavor and let you know if he has been accepted to a performance slot. Once again, thank you all for your support!!

We are happy to announce that SolÅce’s on-line Sonic Bids EPK  (Electronic Press Kit) has been selected by Igneous Music for a possible promotion and distribution deal!! Though the company is currently reviewing SolÅce’s physical press kit to see how they can best serve him, as a selected artist, he has been automatically submitted to IDC and IODA, as well as to licensing and distribution companies in LA, San Francisco and Boston!

This is one of the most exciting opportunities that has come SolÅce’s way in a while and, as such, he would like to thank those of you have believed in his new musical direction and have supported his endeavors to let the world here what he has to offer. 2006 is bound to be an exciting year for SolÅce and his project “RedempXn” so keep your eyes peeled and ears open for more exciting news…

-------------------------------

The following is additional information on Igneous Music and IODA:

Igneous Music has been growing rapidly since its inception 6 months ago, receiving hundreds of great submissions, and beginning to work with some amazing musicians from across the country. Because of the wealth of opportunities that await Igneous Music clients, we’ve moved from the San Francisco Bay Area to Los Angeles. We are still booking shows in San Francisco, Southern California and the Pacific Northwest, and will continue to book showcases in SF and LA. Igneous Music has recently added IODA Alliance  digital distribution services to its list of music industry contacts, and is days away from launching a fully functional website featuring new artist pages, venue listings, management clients, licensing opportunities, and free downloads!

INDEPENDENT ONLINE DISTRIBUTION ALLIANCE

IODA is the industry-leading digital distribution company for the global independent music community. Run by an experienced team of digital music experts with a passion for independent music, IODA distributes thousands of releases from independent labels to digital music outlets around the world.

IODA provides a full range of services to independent record labels, physical distributors, and artists, including:

Independents comprise over 20% of the multi-billion dollar global music industry, while the multinational major labels control the rest. The “iota” of the music world represented by indies has long been the breeding ground for the trailblazing artists that consistently drive the music world's innovations and trends. IODA enables the independent community to take advantage of the opportunities in digital music today, ensuring their place in the digital music future.

Partners (short list):

iTunes, AT&T Wireless mMode Music Store, musicmatch, T-Online, amazon.com, Starbucks HEAR Music,  emusic, napster, liquid difital media, iplay.pl, TOUCHMEDIA, KOODO MUSIC,  SNOCAP, wm-Qube, betterPropaganda, Live365.com, singy, Audio Lunchbox, loudeye, SOUNDBUZZ, VMS, moderati, Xringer, MusicNet, CONNECT, ecast, Karmadownload.com, LAMPSHADE MUSIC, puretracks.com, dancetracksDigital, infospace, RUCKUS, Bleep, passalong, PEERIMPACT, wippit, RHAPSODY, Daiki, msn, gofish, HUDSON MOBILE, GROUPIETUNES, calabash music, BIG POND, destramusic.com, DOWNLOADPUNK, TOuchTunes, and musicnow.

AND THE WINNER IS…?

Even though he is no longer on a basketball, track, or volleyball team, SolÅce realizes that even singers and songwriters need to kick a little butt and get a few wins in order to be recognized for the talent that they possess!! :-P As such, SolÅce has taken it upon himself to do just that and has decided to step up his number of Songwriting Contest entries within the year of 2006.

And, the possibilities of such an action are endless. Not only could SolÅce simply receive the honor of winning a contest but the stakes are much higher as winning artists may also receive deals with major and minor labels, credit to record and produce at some of the world’s greatest studios, the opportunity to pitch his project to a major distributor or manager, billing on a major concert tour or performance, thousands of dollars in cash, and/ or simply the joy of knowing that his songs were appreciated.

Therefore, for your viewing pleasure, we have combined icons from the major songwriting/ lyrics contests that SolÅce has entered thus far and will make sure to update them if the status changes and definitely when he receives a response, whether positive or negative from the reviewers. As usual, please feel free to send e-mails and messages of support to SolÅce because the path of a creative mind and desire is often filled with rejection and failure. Still we at Bezaleel Entertainment believe in him and know that he can one day make musical history!!

I just wanted to take the time in order to wish you a...

HAPPY, HAPPY, NEW YEAR!!

May your year be blessed and filled with joy!!

Sincerely,

SolÅce

SolAce Finds Cotton-Filled Redemption!! :-)

Photos used by kind permission of Letitia Plothe.

The cold night air and snow-filled ground was no deterrent to the numerous audience members who came to support SolÅce at the historic Cotton Club for the release of his second project entitled “RedempXn (Redemption).” As a matter of fact, every table, spare seat, and bar bench was filled prior to the start of the 7:30 p.m. Sunday December 4, 2005 function, in which the scent of the Corky’s-catered dinner and the sound of original background music by DJ Rao filled the air.

Due to some minor technical difficulties, the live acts were not able to start performing until 8:15p.m. but, once these minor kinks were worked out, there was nothing that posed a threat to the building excitement leading up to one of SolÅce’s best performances to date! A local Jazz-Funk band by the name of 5 O’Clock Shadow started the evening off with a couple numbers replete with soulful melodies and stirring guitar lines.

The crowd was even more enthused by the second opening act whose visual appeal was only surpassed by her vocal ability. This second performer was none other than Columbia College’s own Nicki G (www.nickig.com). Performing only a week after releasing her own debut project “Versatility,” Nicki G carried herself with grace while infusing each song with her well-trained voice, lyrical passion, and natural stage presence. She bowed to a hearty reception as the audience awaited the headlining act of SolÅce.

After a brief introduction by Simeon “Simbo” Henderson (www.simeonhenderson.com) and Teefa, of Chicago’s “Home of Hip-hop and R&B,” 107.5 WGCI (www.wgci.com), the stage was set for the focus of the night! SolÅce was led to the front of the room by his primary background vocalist Khary Laurent, an aspiring opera singer who, hours earlier, returned from Soldier Field after singing the Star Spangled Banner to open the Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers Game. Yet the Bears victory was only the start to a day that would see another great performance in action!

SolÅce initiated his hour-long set with the Hip-hop laden title track “RedempXn” and immediately set the stage for high-energy renditions of original and cover material, performed with an explosivity that surprised most of those in attendance. For the second song, SolÅce invited his background dancers to the stage and performed “In the Club II: Move!” filled with synchronized, choreographed dance steps that left the audience applauding for more. This track was followed by the sultry “Prelude-2-Å-Kiss,” introduced by Baby Einsteins Koala ?! (You would have HAD to be there) and displayed more of the dancing ability that SolÅce has clearly worked to develop over the last few years.

The four-piece band was now invited to the stage. Slowing the set down, the heart-wrenchingly stirring “Remembrance (Memoria)” was performed followed by Bob Marley’s “One Love,” which evoked a surprising impromptu dance by various members of the audience. Speeding the set back up once more, the mood was changed by the beat-driven deliveries of the soon-to-be-Dance Hall-classic “DanceHallology” and the southern-charmed “Southern Style,” which showcased SolÅce’s main background dancer, Nicki and a dance-break of booty-shaking choreography that thrilled the audience and left the room buzzing.  The excitement was later tempered by the live-backed, soulful reggae piece simply entitled “Slow Song,” and was followed by the emotionally powerful “Purple Rain.”

And just when the intensity of the show seemed to be overwhelming, SolÅce ended his show with an 80’s surprise that brought the audience to their feet and cemented the memory of this evening in the minds of all on-lookers for quite some time to come. Taking the time to chat with the audience while performing his costume-change on stage, SolÅce clothed himself with each component of Michael Jackson gear (penny-loafers, and gloves present) before performing Billie Jean with the original choreography, a dance break of classic Michael Jackson dance routines, and a segue into No Doubt’s “Hella Good.”

Needless to say the end of the night was brought to a close with a musical bang of synergistic energy that few artists can create! This CD Release Party of SolÅce was, to us, one of if not SolÅce’s most memorable show to date and one that will be remembered for times to come. Still, SolÅce did not arrogantly take all of the credit for the show’s success but, after closing remarks by Simbo and Teefa, took the time to thank all of those whose participation in the show led to the realization of his dream’s reality. Therefore, if you were there, we thank you and, if not, then you will have to find “RedempXn (Redemption)” in a store, club, or party near YOU…

COME JOIN US FOR

THE PARTY OF THE YEAR!!

The long-awaited debut of SolAce's sophomore project,

"RedempXn" has finally arrived and...

we want you there to celebrate with us.

Tickets are now available on-line!!

$15 = Student Discounted Price (MUST present i.d.)