Friday, July 16, 2004
Tony Hawk's Demolition Radio to debut July 20.
SIRIUS today announced a partnership with record-breaking skateboard champion Tony Hawk. Hawk will become the first host on SIRIUS Faction, the innovative music channel created by SIRIUS especially for action sports enthusiasts.
Tony Hawk's Demolition Radio will broadcast from a custom-designed SIRIUS studio at Hawk's new practice facility in California. Hawk will deliver his personal slant on the action sports lifestyle that he is largely responsible for bringing to the public consciousness. The show will launch Tuesday, July 20 at 6:00pm ET and will be uncensored and commercial-free. According to Forbes Magazine, Tony Hawk's brand generated $300 million in retail sales in 2003. The Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video games have become one of the most successful game series in the world. Hawk also enjoyed success with his 32-city US Boom Boom HuckJam action sports tour, which has successfully played to sold-out arenas for the past two years.
"I am very excited about doing a show on SIRIUS Satellite Radio," said Hawk. "Music has always been a huge part of what I do, and now I can share my influences and experiences with the world. It will also fit in perfectly with SIRIUS Faction's diverse format. Expect to hear interviews with interesting guests and a wide range of music from my world."
Scott Greenstein, President of Entertainment and Sports at SIRIUS, commented, "Tony is the world's most visible action sport athlete and he's perfectly suited to become Faction's first on-air host. Tony Hawk's Demolition Radio is yet another example of the cutting-edge programming available only on SIRIUS."
Over the next few months, SIRIUS will roll out additional star athletes who are slated to have their own shows on Faction.
Tony Hawk's Demolition Radio is available with every SIRIUS subscription at no extra charge. SIRIUS radios for the car and home are available at Radio Shack, Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Circuit City and other electronics retailers around the country. To learn more, listen to SIRIUS live or find a SIRIUS retailer in your area, click on http://www.sirius.com.
Posted by
Al on 07/16 at 10:23 AM
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Friday, July 09, 2004
If Spy Hunter is delayed, he may opt to star in another game-based movie.
From Ferrago, "In an interview with The Rock (the improbably named Dwayne Johnson in the real world) featured in Empire, the former-wrestling hard man has revealed that if shooting on Spy Hunter is delayed over Christmas because of bad weather in Prague and Amsterdam, then he may well star in Universal's Doom movie. Of course, Mr Johnson certainly has the look and quite possibly the attitude, but whether a Doom movie based around The Rock could ever do the landmark series justice on the big-screen remains to be very much seen."
Posted by
Al on 07/09 at 11:23 AM
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Monday, June 14, 2004
Charlie Rose explores the growing popularity of professional skateboarding with the sport's most awe-inspiring trendsetter Tony Hawk on 60 Minutes, Wednesday, June 16 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on CBS.
A self-described outcast as a child growing up in San Diego, Hawk turned his skateboarding hobby into a profession at age 14. Now, 20 years later, having invented over 80 tricks and becoming the first to master the 900, Hawk has become the face of modern skateboarding. At age 34, he sports an image so squeaky clean that companies are lining up to do business with him. Activision's video game Tony Hawk, Pro Skater is one of the top-selling video games in the world and Hawk's own line of skateboarding-inspired products has earned more than $20 million over the last two years alone.
Inspired by his need for constant stimulation as a child, Hawk created the ultimate answer to attention deficit disorder. "Tony Hawk's Boom Boom Huck Jam," an extreme sports spectacle packaged for arenas around the country, features the world's best motocrossers, BMX bikers and skateboarders. "I was just doing a lot of exhibitions in recent years, seeing the crowds grow and grow and I felt like there was enough interest where we could be the focus of the tour."
When asked to explain the extreme sport's popularity, Hawk says, "I think the growing appeal is constant action, constant excitement." Comparing a skateboarding competition to an auto race, Hawk says, "I think the fans like the perceived risk factor. You know, whether anyone wants to admit it or not, they like to see us take spills."
Posted by
Al on 06/14 at 05:48 PM
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Tuesday, June 08, 2004
The Fox network's Saturday morning entertainment slot will include the U.S. premiere of the Japanese series One Piece, as well as a show based on Nintendo's F-Zero racing franchise. Returning game-related shows include Kirby: Right Back At Ya! and Sonic X.
This fall, Fox Box is bigger than ever when the Saturday morning kids broadcast network from 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. unveils a new look, an exciting host and its most awesome lineup ever including the U.S. launch of one of the hottest children֒s animated series in Japan, One Piece, from Toei Animation Co., Ltd.
While Fox Box will shortly announce the identity of its hip new host, the networks fall programming is ready to rock: A billion-dollar franchise in Japan, One Piece ranks as one of JapanҒs most successful properties in the past few years. Beginning this fall, Fox Box is the exclusive home for this exciting series. The Fox Box fall 04 excitement continues with the television premiere of NintendoҒs F-Zero GP Legend, based on the high-speed, high performance video game. Fox Box also is proud to air two back-to-back, all-action animated series that feature girls as the lead heroes direct from Italy Ŗ the fashion, fun and magic of the Winx Club and the Japanese animated hit Tokyo Mew Mew. The Winx Club is set to launch June 19, 2004.
Returning Fox Box favorites include Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Shaman King, Kirby: Right Back At Ya! and Sonic X, featuring all-new adventures starring the high-energy characters kids love. Plus, appearing throughout the four-hour block are The Incredible Crash Dummies, back from their successful run in the early 1990s to star in a new series of fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek animated interstitials.
"This fall, Fox Box has the look, the attitude and the programming that is sure to capture kids imaginations," said Alfred R. Kahn, Chairman and CEO of 4Kids Entertainment. "We are delighted to bring One Piece to the U.S. and make Fox Box the network for this popular property. One Piece features a rich storyline with well-developed characters and takes place on the high seas, which gives the property a unique look and feel."
4Kids has been named the agent for One Piece, representing merchandise licensing rights and television distribution rights in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.
As a young boy in a small port village, Monkey D. Luffy was inspired to become a pirate by his childhood hero "Red-Haired" Shanks. But when he accidentally ate the cursed Gum-Gum Fruit, he gained the power to stretch like rubber ҅ at the cost of never being able to swim again! Despite this limitation, Luffy vowed to grow up to become the king of the pirates, and find the greatest pirate treasure of all - the pirate Gold Rogers legendary "One Piece." Created by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece was introduced in ShueishaҒs Weekly Shonen Jump, which has a weekly circulation of three million, in 1997. One Piece graphic novels in Japan have sold more than 100 million copies in 33 volumes. It has already gained a wide fan base in the U.S. through the monthly Shonen Jump magazine, as well as the four graphic novels that have been released to date by VIZ, LLC. The property also boasts five theatrical releases, eight video games and more than $1 billion in retail sales in Japan since 1999, with more than 70 licensees producing toys, games, apparel, stationery, home furnishings, collectibles and more.
Introducing the race to end all races: Nintendos F-Zero GP Legend. The year is 2201 and across the universe rabid fans flock to F-Zero tracks everywhere. The prizes are enormous and the stakes grow even higher when the outlaws compete to win ҅ at any cost! But the Elite Mobile Task Force, a team of high-risk racers, stands at the ready. Driven by a need for speed and a thirst for victory, the Task Force is determined to keep the prize money out of evil hands by defeating the menacing Black Shadow and bringing peace to the entire galaxy. The licensing campaign is expected to launch in 2004/2005.
The Winx Club tells the story of five fantastically fashionable teenage girls who use special powers to transform into magical fairies and save the day. Influenced by top Italian designers, the series ties together key girls topics of love, friendship, magic, music and fashion. Master toy licensee Mattel is scheduled to debut its magical line of dolls and accessories this fall. The toy line is expected to be complimented by video games and trading cards specifically designed and engineered for girls, as well as exciting fashion, apparel, shoes, accessories, stationery and jewelry to debut in Spring 05.
Tokyo Mew Mew -- This Japanese animated property follows the adventures of five girls who possess the powers of endangered animals. They must battle aliens who want to destroy mankind җ when theyre not busy with homework and boyfriends, that is. Fifty-two half hour episodes are now in production and a licensing program is planned to launch in 2005.
Fox Box airs at 8:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM CT/PT to Noon ET / 11:00 AM CT/PT.
Posted by
Al on 06/08 at 06:12 PM
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Atari has reached an agreement with Epic Records and Nimrod Productions to create a dynamic and artistically unique soundtrack for DRIV3R, the third-installment in the best-selling Driver video game franchise. Titled DRIV3R - The Soundtrack, the stand-alone soundtrack is scheduled for U.S. release on June 21, day-in-date with the launch of the DRIV3R video game on the Xbox and PlayStation2.
"With their ability to provide a complete entertainment experience coupled with the scope of their enormous popularity, video games have quickly advanced to the vanguard of entertainment," said Wim Stocks, Executive Vice President for Atari. "Atari recognizes this vast potential and we are thrilled to work with Epic Records and Nimrod Productions in creating an innovative soundtrack whose songs completely complement the gritty onscreen action of the DRIV3R video game."
"The DRIV3R soundtrack includes a compelling combination of new and established artists that forms a perfect complement to this fast-paced and exciting game," commented Steve Barnett, Executive Vice President, General Manager, Epic Records. "We see this as an important opportunity to build new audiences for our artists, and we look forward to working closely with Atari as we introduce this innovative soundtrack to the market place."
Plundering the depths and the edges of the music world, DRIV3R - The Soundtrack includes 14 cutting-edge tracks from acclaimed stars, such as a Iggy Pop, as well as up-and-coming acts in the U.S. and Europe, including Phantom Planet, Hope Of The States, Syntax, among others. The soundtrack will also feature a 12-minute "Making Of DRIV3R" documentary narrated by actor Michael Madsen (who voiced "Tanner," the lead character in the Driver franchise).
Featuring Hollywood-caliber production values and a gripping, narrative story line, DRIV3R casts players once again as undercover cop Tanner who, alongside his partner Tobias, must infiltrate a global car theft ring, an assignment that leads to tire-squealing chases and fierce on-foot firefights while tailing gangsters, chasing witnesses, stealing cars and unloading massive clips of ammo to bring the criminals to justice.
Additionally, each original CD will contain n-CD technology that will grant exclusive access to a special vaulted website where cheats for the game, a special deleted scene and competitions can be accessed.
Following is the DRIV3R - THE SOUNDTRACK track listing:
1. Mellowdrone "C'mon and Try"
Be prepared for an explosion as Mellodrone kick offs the opening Miami scene with 'c'mon and try', a blisteringly claustrophobic and dense opening track. Mellodrone has been described by UK music Bible, NME, as "utterly deranged but deeply compelling". The U.S. band is now set for world domination with its forthcoming EP 'go get 'em tiger' set for release in spring 2004.
2. Phantom Planet "Big Brat"
California's coolest rock band's track 'Big Brat' is by-the-gut loud, brash and taut, recorded in a log cabin deep in New York's Amish community and produced by Dave Fridmann (famous for his work with The Flaming Lips). 'Big Brat' features in the Face Facts scene and is taken from the much anticipated self-titled 'Phantom Planet' LP due for release in June 2004.
3. Iggy And The Stooges "Gimme Danger"
'Gimme Danger' blasts through the Good Guys scene in DRIV3R. The track comes from Iggy And The Stooges' third album, 'Raw Power' released in 1973, which marked Pop as the 'Godfather of Punk'. 'Gimme Danger's' sonic collision of garage rock and punk carved out the roots of Iggy Pop And The Stooges' rock royalty status.
4. The Raveonettes "Bowels Of The Beast"
Danish duo The Raveonettes are hailed as one of the most exciting and 'as cool as it gets' bands around. 'Bowels Of The Beast' is a slow twisted, malevolent crash of sounds set against spine-chilling lyrics "it will find you and take you home tonight". The Raveonettes are a post pop-punk, Jesus And Mary Chain for a new generation. The track from their acclaimed EP Whip It On, 2002 features in the Bagman scene.
5. SLO-MO "Boy from the City"
The pace quickens and uplifts with the jangly punk guitar-fueled 'Boy From The City' from Sheffield band SLO-MO. The band is hailed as a savior of the independent music scene, and one of the hottest acts around at the moment. SLO-MO's 'Boy From The City' manages to define the sound of 'alternative,' features in the Escape scene, and taken from the band's self-titled debut album released in 2003.
6. Syntax "Destiny"
British band Syntax is poised to be one of the most effective crossover groups out there, creating a new genre of music out of its unique rock and electronic clash. The filmic and kinetic rush of 'Destiny', a thrilleresque track, fits perfectly with the mood of the Destiny scene in DRIV3R. Destiny has been taken from Syntax's album, Meccano Mind, released in the spring 2004.
7. Okuniev "Ripe For The Devil"
The edgy hypnotic 'Ripe For The Devil' creeps like ice that's come to life, a mesmerizing, gripping and totally immersive track from newcomer Okuniev. The duo from East London formed only six months ago combines a visual artist and musician to make music that reaches deep into your psyche and messes with your soul. 'Ripe For The Devil' has been plucked fresh from the heart of Okuniev's debut album, set for release in the summer of 2004. 'Ripe For The Devil' features in the Istanbul scene.
8. Teddybears STHLM "Move Over"
From harsh to soft, 'Move Over' displays the talents of Stockholm's biggest secret, the Teddybears STHLM. The band started out as a hardcore punk band but 'Move Over' shows its playfulness and wizardry with synths, drum machines and samplers, as well as more hip hop, contemporary techno and funk influences. The song's made with a glint in the eye, and a very strong line of pure coolness. The trippy melodic 'Move Over' a concoction of brittle, sweet synth melodies features in the menu screens. The Teddybears STHLM recently completed its latest album, Fresh!
9. Narco "The 2nd Evolution/Stand Off"
Narco is the house band of Nimrod Productions and was commissioned to complete the overall music design in DRIV3R. The band selected tracks and also wrote the original score of more than 90 minutes of original music within the game. The in-your-face '2nd Evolution' struts in with a ballsy swagger of synth rock, like Bowie at his most animated. Lifted from Narco's 'Control Of The Stereo' album to be released summer 2004.
10. Narco "Evil Brother"
Another track from Narco thrashes in with hyper Hammond organ and raging guitars clashing. Narco's 'Evil Brother' is a genius slice of punk, garage rock that could easily be a hit from another decade.
11. Los Halos "Black Thread"
Los Halos from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is one of the most credible and revered bands around from the noise-rock genre. 'Black Thread' has been lifted from the band's self-titled debut of 2002 to raise the stakes in the Hostage scene in Driv3r. "Victim, I'm a victim" is repeated in a brooding whisper over repetitive guitar riffs, both soothing and disturbing, and constantly threatening.
12. Stateless "Exit"
This Leeds five-piece is set to a make major impact within the music industry and is currently recording its debut album with Jim Abbis (DJ Shadow, The Music). Stateless signed to Sony Music in 2003 after grabbing the label's attention when one of its tracks was included on the Radio 1's playlist. 'Exit' is a fusion of dreamy and distorted rolling keyboards, uplifting strings and eclectic scratching. An epic and skillfully crafted debut that should see the band take the lion's share of best newcomer awards on release of its first album due late in 2004. This is definitely a band to watch out for. 'Exit' features in the Face Facts and Drop site #2 scenes.
13. The BellRays "Zero PM"
Hailing from California, The BellRays formed 10 years ago and was first outed in the UK with the release of the acclaimed 'Meet The BellRays' album on Alan McGee's Poptones label in 2002. Tagged by the NME as the future of the "New Rock Revolution", The BellRays now has a huge cult following. 'Zero PM' has been lifted from this album and is a storming mix of pure soul, rock and blues which features in the end credits to DRIV3R.
14. Hope Of The States "Static In The Cities"
The last track of DRIV3R - The Soundtrack the explosive 'Static In The Cities' by Hope Of The States. This is a blinding and epic finale from a brand new British band. Hope Of The States is already commanding rapturous praise in musical circles, the NME gushes that its "Intellectual, political, hugely ambitious, the whole thing will translate magnificently onto a grander stage, it's not a question of if, but when". Hope Of The States - 'Static In The Cities' is a soaring orchestral-led track that rinses through every emotion known to man, and will take you and make you worship at their feet. Hope Of The States is set for major stardom with the release of its debut album due to be released in the summer of 2004. 'Static In The Cities' features in the Contacts scene in DRIV3R.
Developed by Reflections Interactive (an Atari studio), the masterminds behind DRIVER and DRIVER 2 - which have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide - DRIV3R is an action-packed driving adventure game that stays true to its roots, incorporating the cinematic gameplay and gritty street crime of its predecessors with ground-breaking graphics and three mammoth, wide-open city environments: Miami, Florida; Nice, France; and Istanbul, Turkey. In addition, major Hollywood talent such as Michael Madsen, Ving Rhames, Mickey Rourke and Michelle Rodriguez will play the lead roles in the third installment of the Driver video game series.
Posted by
Al on 06/08 at 09:47 AM
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