Run-D.M.C.’s Rev. Run has signed a worldwide recording deal with U.K. independent label Craze Productions. His new album is being recorded in New York and is due in the first quarter; it features a guest spot by Kid Rock, with whom Run will tour this spring.
Simmons will also tape the fifth season of his MTV show “Run’s House” later this year.
Craze Productions has an extensive digital catalog of hip-hop tracks and has previously focused on Web and mobile downloads as well as ringtones. The new signing marks a move into physical releases for the London-based label, which will Run’s album in stores worldwide.
— Andre Paine, London
Jose Gonzalez and St. Vincent are the first performers confirmed for the Plug Independent Music Awards, to be held March 6 at New York’s Terminal 5. The event will be hosted by comedian Patton Oswalt, who records for Sub Pop.
Gonzales and St. Vincent have also been nominated for several awards, joining multiple nominees such as Of Montreal, Justice, Arcade Fire, Band Of Horses and El-P. Voting for the 2008 Plug Awards is open until Feb. 8 at PlugAwards.com.
— Jacob Smyle, N.Y.
Burger King is sponsoring a new online contest, “My Song, My Way,” in league with the ninth annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC). Slated for Feb. 1 at Phoenix Symphony Hall in Phoenix, the celebration will feature performers like Donnie McClurkin, CeCe Winans and Patti LaBelle.
Working in conjunction with Burger King is Atlanta-based entertainment production company Results, Inc., whose president Melanie Few is the founder and executive producer of the SBGC.
Contestants logging onto mysongmyway.com are required to upload a solo a cappella video of themselves singing any song their way. At stake is a Super Bowl XLII VIP package that includes two tickets to the game, first-class hotel accommodations and roundtrip airfare with ground transportation. In addition, the winner will earn the chance to sing live with the first-ever NFL All-Star Players Choir. The entry deadline is Jan. 28; the winner will be announced on Jan. 30.
— Gail Mitchell, L.A.