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发表于 24-1-2007 07:30 PM
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http://www.nationalledger.com/ar ... cle_272611157.shtml
American Idol Finalist Elliott Yamin Inks 'Partnership' Deal
By Shirley Kennedy
Jan 23, 2007
Season five of American Idol likely produced the biggest group of talent in one season in the show’s five-year history. Several recording contracts have been signed, four contestants have released albums, and debut albums from other former contestants will soon be released. Elliott Yamin, one of the most talented vocalists in the show’s history, will be one of those releasing a debut album this year. Elliott’s debut album is set to drop on March 20 through RED Distribution.
According to Jeff Rabhan, Elliott’s manager, Elliott’s recently inked deals with RED Distribution and Sony/ATV serve Elliott well. “This is a very unique deal. It’s a partnership of sorts. We are very excited,” reveals Jeff. The manner in which Elliott is releasing his album permits him to continue the tradition he began on Idol, allowing him to maintain creative involvement and to protect his artistic integrity, both of which are extremely important to Elliott. In addition, Elliott has had the opportunity to work with some of the best producers and musicians in the business.
Elliott has been literally back and forth across the country, working and recording with different writers, artists, and producers. During his travels, Elliott managed to record and release his version of Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas,” much to the excitement of his many fans. I wish that I could give the fans more about the contents of Elliott’s debut album, but that information is being kept securely under wraps until the date of release draws near. Be assured, however, that Elliott’s music will be worth the wait. His voice is still one of the best I have heard in a long time, and for those who have experienced Elliott live, just imagine what he’s going to sound like on a professionally produced album. Fans can rejoice in the fact that Elliott’s first single, “Movin’ On,” will be released via all digital service providers by February 13. Even more exciting, Elliott will be embarking on his first solo tour to promote this album in the spring/summer of 2007. Using his incredible vocal talents, newly honed songwriting skills, and knowledgeable management team, Elliott has partnered with two quite impressive entities to produce this debut album.
RED Distribution (RED) is the leading independent distributor in the U.S. This company has worked with such artists as Los Lonely Boys and Switchfoot, both of whom went on to sign with some of Sony/BMG’s major labels. Started in 1979 as a heavy metal distributor, RED released Metallica’s first two albums and now handles releases for 42 record labels. For the second year in a row, the National Association of Recording Merchandisers has named RED Distributor of the Year. RED is not your typical music distributor. Led by Vice President and General Manager Bob Morelli, RED has become somewhat of a label itself. “We're clearly a distribution company. We do quintessential distribution activities: ship records, do credit and collections; sell records; read back the marketplace – what a distribution company does. What we have though within RED is a ‘label-esque’ feel, mostly because we are artist development-oriented,” discloses Morelli.
Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC (Sony/ATV) is one of the world’s largest music publishing companies. Sony/ATV was created by virtue of a merger between Sony Corporation of America and ATV Music, which was owned by Michael Jackson. Today, Sony and Michael Jackson each own 50% of Sony/ATV. Sony/ATV owns the Northern Springs catalogue, which consists of 180 songs written by the Beatles, primarily by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Elliott is in good songwriting company with Sony/ATV. The company represents John Mayer, Beck, Fall Out Boy, Marc Anthony, and Mikkel Eriksen, who has penned hits for Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Mario Vazquez. Sony/ATV has received 11 nominations in this year’s Brit Awards and boasts 27 Grammy nominations this year, including Album of the Year (Continuum by John Mayer), Song of the Year (“Jesus Take the Wheel,” written by Brett James and performed by Carrie Underwood and which is also nominated in two other categories), and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals (“Hips Don’t Lie,” written by Wyclef Jean and performed by Shakira and Wyclef Jean).
Partnering with Sony/ATV and RED is yet another smart move on the part of Elliott and his managers. Not only do these partnerships allow Elliott to have direct involvement with the sound of his debut album, but his partnerships with RED and Sony/ATV will ensure that his album reaches the masses. “This project is a natural development of our role as a modern day publisher, helping our writers to reach the broadest audience,” reveals Danny Strick, President of Sony/ATV. In today’s music world, artists no longer necessarily need a record label, though I personally believe a recording contract will be the final deal in Elliott’s immediate future.
According to a good source—Elliott’s mom Claudette—Elliott is very excited. “His blood sugar is good. He feels good,” shares Claudette. “I talk to him almost every day. He’s working seven days a week and he’s tired, but it’s a good tired. Times are still exciting.” Now, everyone else can be excited with Elliott. The good news continues to flow, and his music will be available in just a few weeks. Considering that both Sony/ATV and RED are part of the Sony/BMG conglomerate, logic dictates that Elliott will eventually sign with a label in this family. Be on the lookout for an announcement from Elliott, which may answer some of his fans’ lingering questions. Check in for my review of Elliott’s debut album, which will stem from my love of music and not my expertise. I have every confidence that Elliott will do us all proud. |
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