Kentucky native is racking up awards at film festivals across the country

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Ericka Nicole Malone

ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES HULU DEAL

Official Release

(Los Angeles, California) Louisville, native, former Western Kentucky University, (WKU) student, Ericka Nicole Malone of Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment, LLC, is available for interviews. The Youth Performing Arts School, (YPAS), graduate of Manual High, a JCPS school is a successful writer, director, and executive producer. He latest award-winning project is “Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story” starring Ledisi, Columbus Short, Janet Hubert, Keith David, Wendy Raquel Robinson, and Keith Robinson.

Malone says “I am so excited about this latest project; we took this film to various film festivals receiving so much attention. I am so excited to announce that this project you can now see the film on Hulu. This is a major deal for film and my production company. I am so proud of my Kentucky roots and every opportunity I get I acknowledge my home state.”

ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERTAINMENT is a production company focused on the development, production/co-production and distribution of film, television, and animated projects nationwide. 

To setup an interview via phone and/or zoom, contact Sherlene Shanklin at VIPP Communications at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502.341-7306.

To read learn more on the Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment go to www.erickanicolemalone.com.

To see the official trailer https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=remember+me+the+mahalia+jackson+story&docid=608026812518581063&mid=FE5AFC0CF9B3F0B12F5EFE5AFC0CF9B3F0B12F5E&view=detail&FORM=VIRE

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VIPP Communications is a full-service, public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele ranges from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see how we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com.  www.vippcommunications.com

TheVIPPReport: Bryson Tiller aka Pen Griffey teams up to hit a homerun with clothing line with Ken Griffey Jr.

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Louisville’s own R &B/Trapsoul artist Bryson Tiller and baseball legend Ken Griffey, Jr. have teamed up to release the S24 X Trapsoul Apparel and Accessories Collection.  The collection was released at midnight on March 24th.   The collaboration is a combination of classic swingman style gear with a R&B/Trapsoul edge. It’s bringing culture, sport and style.  It’s designed to reach the next generation of fans with a fusion of Tiller and Griffey’s style. 

The collection will include jerseys, hoodies, t-shirts, pants, ball caps and backpacks.  This is a limited edition S24 X TRAPSOUL Capsule Collection.  To commemorate Griffey’s all-star legacy with the Seattle Mariners you will see the colors teal, ocean blue, black and white in the collection.  The unisex collection ranges in sizes XS (extra small) to 3XL (triple extra-large) and it will cost you from $35 to $195. 

The photos given to me for this story we actually taken in Louisville for the launch of the collection photographed by Antonio Pantoja.  They were taken here in homage to Tiller and his hometown. 

Excitement is building around the launch.  Dorian Washington, SVP of Artist Relations for S24 says “I’ve been involved in a lot of great projects throughout my 30 year career in the music industry, but this is without a doubt the most exciting,”.

The original swingman brand was founded in 1995 reaching accolades as one of the highest grossing sports brands worldwide.  Now, with the collaboration with Tiller its expected to reach that status once again by knocking out the previous records out of the park. 

S24 X TRAPSOUL launches exclusively online at www.werunthegame.com.

The VIPP Report: The Walnut Street Revue announces new date for their concert

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UPDATE: Due to rise of COVID-19 cases in Kentucky the concert will be rescheduled to Saturday, February 26th

WALNUT STREET REVUE RETURNS TO IN-PERSON CONCERT AS WE KICKOFF BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Recognizing the contributions that Louisville natives made to music

(Louisville, KY) As we celebrate the Legacy of Black Louisville, Legacies Unlimited, Inc. presents The Walnut Street Revue “Let’s Groove Again” at 7:30pm on Saturday, January 29,2022 (moved to Saturday, February 26th) at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, (KCAAH) located at 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd. 

It’s a special evening consisting of exhibits and the historic musical contributions of African Americans from Louisville to the entertainment industry.  The Walnut Street Revue “Let’s Groove Again” will pay tribute to the achievements not only to the city but to the nation and the world. 

As we take a stroll down Walnut Street known today as Muhammad Ali Blvd., we take you back to the 1930’s, 40’s & 50’s.  We are excited to have Rob Lee, Michael Johnson, Yvette Nicole, Paulette Johnson, Erica Denise amongst other talented artists who will set the scene of yesteryear along the strip that generated stars and helped keep dreams alive for aspiring entertainers. 

Special guests for the evening will be Frankie Raymore & the Groove Masters featuring Tony Fish and Daria Raymore.

Tickets are now available for The Walnut Street Revue “Let’s Grove Again” at Better Days Records in Lyles Mall and 921 Barrett Ave., or you can purchase tickets online at Red Pin Tix | The Walnut Street Revue 2022

Masks and proof of vaccination required for entry.

This event was made possible with the support of The Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, Hardscuffle Inc., WLKY-TV, and George & Mary Lee Fischer. 

To setup an interview with Ken Clay of Legacies Unlimited, please contact VIPP Communications at 502-341-7306 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com. 

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The VIPP Report: Ball N’ Out is common for Rupp Arena but Wild N’ Out takes over in March

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There’s some shows that you just can’t turn away from. I’m surfing the channels and I always have to stop on MTV’s Wild N’ Out. I consider myself pretty knowledgeable when it comes to pop culture but I literally learn something new every time I watch that show.  It’s a rap and comedy battle on steroids, performances by top artists and the latest in trends. With its resurgence of the show Nick Cannon has decided to hit the road.

Save the date of Tuesday, March 24th for Wild N’ Out in Lexington, KY.  The show will be held in Rupp Arena.

Fans of the show can expect some standup as well as some music performances.  Some of the cast members you will get to see on tour, DC Young Fly, Karious Miller, Emmanuel Hudson, Justina Valentine and DJ D-Wreck.  The 27-city tour kicks off in March with the lineup changing up for each city along with some surprise guests.

Tickets start around $30.00.  You can purchase tickets at LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster.com and the Lexington Center Ticket Office.

If you have a story idea, send it to me at thevippreport@vippcommunications.com.  Follow us on Twitter @thevippreport @vippcomm.

The VIPP Report: Hip hop artists help their young fans with school supplies by donating their time and talents

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(Louisville, KY) This weekend music will fill the air for a great cause as area youth get the opportunity to fill their backpacks with school supplies thanks to some hip-hop artists.  Last year, Dusty Leigh and his team went above and beyond their expectations when it came to donating school supplies to area youth.

On Saturday, August 10th, they do it again thanks to last year’s response and need.  Dusty Leigh Day welcomes Bubba Sparxx, Nappy Roots, Ritz, Sean Paul of the Young Bloodz and Haystak to The Bourbon Hall, 116 W. Jefferson Street.  There will also be a special performance by Burden, Justin Time, Big Murph, Prime Suspects, Rocky Luciano, Japp Wayne and B Simm.

Doors open at 7:00 pm with the concert beginning at 8:00 pm.  You must be over 18 years old to enter the event.

The concert is FREE with a school supply donation.  If you don’t bring supplies, Leigh is asking for a minimum donation of $10.  Proceeds will benefit Shirley’s Way.  The non-profit organization assist families who have a loved one with cancer.  It gives them one less worry as they care for their loved one.

We would like to thank AT&T Fiber, Bluegrass Meds and volunteers and supporters for making Dusty Leigh Day possible.

If you would like to setup an interview with Dusty Leigh and/or request media credentials, contact at VIPP Communications at info@vippcomunications.com.

The VIPP Report: “DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH” is more than just a song its the motto of Kentucky Derby fans experiencing all things derby

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NOW, AN OAKS DAY BRUNCH WILL DO A TRIBUTE TO THE MEGASTAR THAT MADE THE SONG SO FAMOUS

(Louisville, KY) Louisville Central Community Center, (LCCC) in collaboration with VIPP Communications announces their second annual Kentucky Derby event.  On Friday, May 3rd at 11 am at Old Walnut Street, 1300 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd, it’s the Oaks Day Derby Brunch. This year’s tribute will take you through the music catalog of Gary, Indiana native and pop megastar Michael Jackson.

The Derby Brunch hosted by Sherlene Shanklin is from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm.  Some of Louisville’s top artists will perform some of the King of Pop’s 13 singles that hit number one on the charts.  Sheryl Rouse, Jason Clayborn and Jon-John Johnson will perform some of Jackson’s memorable and greatest hits.  The Youth Repertory Theater Troupe will showcase their talents after LCCC’s leadership and performing arts department prepared a curriculum giving the youth a history and music lesson on the humble beginnings of Jackson in Indiana living in a two-bedroom home with seven brothers and sisters at the time along with his parents practicing night and day to make the Jackson 5 a household name. Motown Records signed the group and the rest was history for Michael and his family.

Tickets are $45 in advance and $50 at the door.  You can purchase them at louisvilletickets.com.  Doors open at 10 a.m. and guests are asked to wear their Oaks Day attire including your fascinator and/or hat to the brunch.  There’s will be vendors with your last-minute items needed for Oaks and Derby.  If you would like to reserve a booth contact Erica Bledsaw, Oaks Day Coordinator at Erica.bledsaw@lcccnews.org or by calling LCCC at (502) 583-8821 ext. 130.  Proceeds benefit LCCC youth programs.

Last year in our inaugural event music icon and Motown legend Stevie Wonder was highlighted along with J. Holiday as our featured music guest.

The Louisville Central Community Centers is a 501c(3), private, non-profit community-based organizations.  We offer a variety of programs and services in support of children and families.  Early childhood, education, youth development, arts education and other after school programs, employment services and job training for adults, money management, and homeownership are just some of the services provided

We would like to thank the following for their support for this year’s event: Erica Denise, VIPP Communications, Manhattan on Broadway and WoodForest National Bank.

If you would like to be a sponsor, request media credentials and/or request interviews, please contact us at please contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.

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VIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele range from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com.  http://vippcommunications.com/

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Hip hop artist R. Prophet announces new single and partnership to have his own label

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It’s the “RETURN” of R. Prophet dropping knowledge while delivering a conscious message on today’s current climate with his new single

(Atlanta, GA) Two-time Grammy nominated hip-hop/rap artist R. Prophet releases his new single “Jesse James”, that speaks the truth beyond all the fog of negativity when it comes to artists and the climate of the music industry.

The former member of the multi-platinum hip-hop group Nappy Roots has inked a deal.  Prophet will have his own label which he calls it VVS Music 1.  He’s partnered with Ray Hamilton, former CEO of Legion of Doom DJ’s of That Rabbit Distribution which is a joint venture with Sony Music Orchard. Many compare Prophet’s deal similar to the landmark deal made by Master P that changed the hip-hop game when it comes to business and artist music ownership.

With the powerhouse partnership, the highly anticipate album of Prophet, “THE VOICE” with the first single and anticipated smash hit “Jesse James” will rock the radio airwaves, YouTube channels and other media platforms worldwide.  Prophet has made a name for himself in the industry and this single will give his fans a sense of hip-hop doctrine speaking the truth, going against the grain with a rebel like vibe we used to hear when rap legends NWA wanted to make a statement.

Prophet says “I just want people to know my truth and how I’m really feeling. Some folks may think it’s a diss but it’s me speaking my truth. “Jesse James” was inspired by the police brutality R. Prophet came face to face with a few years back.” The single was written to give people the power, control love they deserve and to erase the hate.  R. Prophet is an advocate against police brutality after surviving being tased 15 times at the hands of Kentucky State Police.  It was reported but not confirmed by involved parties but he was later awarded a $1 million-dollar judgment.

With the current climate in society, people are looking for a lyrical voice that can take experiences and incidents ripped from headlines that rock neighborhood across the country.  (Atlanta, GA)

To learn more about “Jesse James” visit https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/jesse-james-single/1450856886 to make a purchase or head over to Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/album/2RdXcHKo0Ppc1RuPDuZrRc.

To setup an interview with R. Prophet and/or any other media inquiries please contact Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.

Be sure to stay connected with R. Prophet on all social media platforms. Facebook.com/rprophet and Instagram.com/rprophetofficial

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About R. Prophet:

Prophet is an American Rapper, Actor and TV personality. Known by most as the former lead of Grammy Nominated Group, Nappy Roots, R. Prophet has been changing the music scene since the early 2000s. Currently R. Prophet is developing hip hop educational tools for children. He has also been acting and recording his solo album with hopes to raise awareness of police brutality. One of R. Prophet’s biggest honors, in addition to being nominated for two Grammys, is the appointment to the Board & Advisory Council of the Muhammad Ali Center where he serves as the youngest member alongside Diddy, Denzel Washington and more. Stay tuned for more to come with Rap Artist and Actor R. Prophet.

VIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele range from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com.  http://vippcommunications.com/

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: The Strength of a Woman tour makes a stop in Louisville at the KFC Yum! Center

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By Sherlene Shanklin

It’s the new anthem for ladies around the world and now R&B/Soul star Mary J. Blige will take her new album entitled “Strength of a Woman” on tour by the same name.

The Grammy and platinum selling artist will be at the KFC Yum! Center on Saturday, September 23rd.  Doors will open around 7:00pm and the show will begin at 8:00pm.  Artists Joe and Stokley, who was the lead singer of Mint Condition, will be a part of the tour and scheduled to open for Blige in Louisville.

Tickets range from $51.50 to $99.50 and they go on sale Friday, July 14th at 12:00pm.

If you have a story idea and/or you would like for me to be the first to announce or cover your show in the Midwest send me the details at thevippreport@vippcommunications.com.

You can follow Sherlene Shanklin on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Instagram @Sherlenemediapro. Follow The VIPP Report on Twitter @VIPPReport.

The VIPP Report: Janet Jackson announces tonight her return to the stage

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Janet Jackson official photo

By Sherlene Shanklin

She’s went on maturity leave and many thought she may not return.  There’s been hints all day from the multi-Grammy Award winning artist that something was brewing.  A video saying she would return but when?

Then at 10:20 pm tonight, an email pops into my inbox announcing the Janet Jackson 2017 State of the World Tour.  The 56-city tour will begin on Thursday, September 7th in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Louisville, KY is on that tour schedule.  Jackson will be at the KFC Yum! Center on Friday, December 1st.  Tickets go on sale Friday, May 5th, (Oaks Day).

Don’t forget if you previously purchased tickets for the Unbreakable Tour they will be honored for the news dates.  Janet cancelled the concert because she was expecting her first child and was told by doctors to rest.  She had that baby January 3rd of this year.

If you have a story idea, send it to me at thevippreport@vippcommunications.com.  You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Instagram @Sherlenemediapro.  @thevippreport @vippcomm.

Here’s the tour locations for The State of the World:

THE STATE OF THE WORLD TOUR:

**Denotes a New Event

Thursday, September 07, 2017               Lafayette, LA                Cajundome**

Saturday, September 09, 2017               Houston, TX                  Toyota Center

Sunday, September 10, 2017                 Austin, TX                     Frank Erwin Center

Wednesday, September 13, 2017           San Antonio, TX            AT&T Center

Thursday, September 14, 2017               Dallas, TX                     American Airlines Center

Saturday, September 16, 2017               Little Rock, AR              Verizon Arena

Sunday, September 17, 2017                 Tulsa, OK                      BOK Center

Tuesday, September 19, 2017                Albuquerque, NM          Isleta Amphitheater

Thursday, September 21, 2017               Phoenix, AZ                  Talking Stick Resort Arena**

Saturday, September 23, 2017               Anaheim, CA                 Honda Center

Sunday, September 24, 2017                 Fresno, CA                   Save Mart Center**

Tuesday, September 26, 2017                Vancouver, BC              Rogers Arena**

Wednesday, September 27, 2017           Seattle, WA                   Key Arena

Friday, September 29, 2017                   Portland, OR                 Moda Center

Sunday, October 01, 2017                     Reno, NV                      Grand Sierra Resort & Casino**

Tuesday, October 03, 2017                    Sacramento, CA            Golden 1 Center**

Thursday, October 05, 2017                   Concord, CA                 Concord Pavilion

Saturday, October 07, 2017                   San Diego, CA              Valley View Casino Center**

Sunday, October 08, 2017                     Los Angeles, CA           Hollywood Bowl

Saturday, October 14, 2017                   Las Vegas, NV              Mandalay Bay Events Center**

Monday, October 16, 2017                     Salt Lake City, UT          Vivint Smart Home Arena

Tuesday, October 17, 2017                    Denver, CO                   Pepsi Center Arena

Thursday, October 19, 2017                   Kansas City, MO           Sprint Center

Saturday, October 21, 2017                   St. Louis, MO                Chaifetz Arena

Sunday, October 22, 2017                     Milwaukee, WI               BMO Harris Bradley Center

Wednesday, October 25, 2017               Moline, IL                      iWireless Center

Thursday, October 26, 2017                   Chicago, IL                   Allstate Arena

Saturday, October 28, 2017                   Toledo, OH                   The Huntington Center

Sunday, October 29, 2017                     Detroit, MI                     Little Caesars Arena**

Wednesday, November 01, 2017            Grand Rapids, MI          Van Andel Arena**

Thursday, November 02, 2017                Toronto, ON                  Air Canada Centre**

Saturday, November 04, 2017                Buffalo, NY                   KeyBank Center**

Sunday, November 05, 2017                  Boston, MA                  TD Garden

Tuesday, November 07, 2017                 Providence, RI              Dunkin Donuts Center

Wednesday, November 08, 2017            Manchester, NH SNHU Arena

Friday, November 10, 2017                    Atlantic City, NJ            Boardwalk Hall

Saturday, November 11, 2017                Bethlehem, PA              Sands Bethlehem Events Center

Monday, November 13, 2017                 Philadelphia, PA            Wells Fargo Center

Wednesday, November 15, 2017            Brooklyn, NY                Barclays Center

Thursday, November 16, 2017                Washington, DC            Verizon Center

Saturday, November 18, 2017                Baltimore, MD               Royal Farms Arena

Sunday, November 19, 2017                  Newark, NJ                   Prudential Center

Sunday, November 26, 2017                  Indianapolis, IN             Bankers Life Fieldhouse

Tuesday, November 28, 2017                 Columbus, OH              Schottenstein Center

Wednesday, November 29, 2017            Pittsburgh, PA              PPG Paints Arena

Friday, December 01, 2017                    Louisville, KY                KFC Yum! Center

Sunday, December 03, 2017                  Cleveland, OH               Quicken Loans Arena

Monday, December 04, 2017                 Lexington, KY               Rupp Arena**

Wednesday, December 06, 2017            Memphis, TN                 FedEx Forum**

Thursday, December 07, 2017                Nashville, TN                 Bridgestone Arena**

Saturday, December 09, 2017                Birmingham, Al              The BJCC

Monday, December 11, 2017                 Fort Lauderdale, FL       BB&T Center

Tuesday, December 12, 2017                 Jacksonville, FL            Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena

Thursday, December 14, 2017                Norfolk, VA                   Norfolk Scope Arena

Saturday, December 16, 2017                Columbia, SC                Colonial Life Arena

Sunday, December 17, 2017                  Atlanta, GA                   Philips Arena

 

The VIPP Report: Lil Wayne announces his tour and it starts in Louisville

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lilwayne

Kloser 2 U Tour  featuring Lil Wayne will start his tour in Louisville, Ky

By Sherlene Shanklin

The Kloser 2 U Tour is announced and Louisville is on the schedule for this Spring.  Grammy award winning hip hop artist Dwayne Carter Jr., stage name Lil Wayne will be in concert at the Louisville Palace.  Save the date of Friday, April 14th.  If you noticed his schedule Louisville kicks off the tour.  It’s scheduled to end on May 11th in Detroit.  There’s a total of 12 dates on the list but others will be added at a later date.

Louisville hip-hop fans know Wayne well because Louisville native, the late Stephen “Static Major” Garrett wrote the song “Lollipop” for Wayne’s Tha Carter III album.  In 2008, Lil Wayne won four Grammy Awards, including best rap album and best rap song, which he won for “Lollipop”.

Tickets start at $39.50 and the pre-sale starts Tuesday but public tickets go on sale Friday, March 3rd.

If you have a concert announcement send it to me at The411@whas11.com.  You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Facebook @SherleneShanklin for real-time announcements.

 The VIPP Report- Twitter: @thevippreport  @vippcomm  Story ideas send them to thevippreport@vippcommunications.com 

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Mary J. Blige’s father remains in critical condition after being stabbed

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The VIPP Report: Multi-platinum R & B/Soul artist Mary J. Blige’s father is currently in critical condition in a  Michigan hospital.  Police say 63 year old Thomas Blige was allegedly stabbed by his ex-girlfriend.  The incident happened around 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning in Blige’s apartment.  The suspect is currently in a Calhoun County jail charged with attempted murder and she is expected to be arraigned Friday.  
Follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm for the latest in this story and other entertainment and community news.