Thursday, April 9, 2009

Support the Prince-ly Philanthropist: BUY INDIE TODAY


I admittedley start my work day by getting on Facebook to get a whiff of what folks are talking about and this note posted by hip-hop journalist Davey D was something share-worthy. I picked up my Target-sold Prince CD this past week and really enjoy it. What is so impressive is how he uses his celebrity to promote his label artists, giving them an opportunity to be heard.

Check out the story below.
------------------------

TAVIS SAYS PLEASE GIVE PRINCE SOME LOVE:
Smiley urges support for singer's new album following generous donation.
(April 8, 2009)

*Tavis Smiley sent a thank you letter to folks who attended the 10th anniversary celebrations of his State of the Black Union, as well as the Gospel Brunch and Prince concert in Los Angeles held to benefit the Tavis Smiley Foundation.

While informing supporters that the recent fund-raising efforts have brought in almost $225,000 to fund the development of young leaders, Smiley made a point to single out Prince for donating proceeds from his Feb. 28 show at The Conga Room to the cause.

Smiley wrote:

As is common for some philanthropic individuals who donate to charitable and worthy causes, Prince is one of those people who won’t tout his contributions. He just doesn’t do it. He gives to give. In our case, Prince not only donated his time but covered all expenses for the show and mysteriously enough we received another donation matching dollar-for-dollar the six-figure concert proceeds. Guess who?

By now you may know that he has released a new phenomenal 3-CD set, "LotusFlow3r," which showcases yet again his musical genius. The CD is available exclusively through Target stores nationwide and retails for $11.98 and is slated to reach No. 1 in record sales this week.

Because Prince has carved a creative niche for himself to own his music and to market directly to the public, this project does not have the traditional support of radio or a record label. Hence, you may have not heard any of the CD tracks on your local radio stations. But these circumstances should not prevent the public from hearing about or accessing the work of an artist who is perhaps the greatest of our time.

So I’m asking you as our friends to take a minute to check out his CD for yourself at a Target store or visit Target online at http://www.target.com.

And in addition, later this month Prince is scheduled to be a guest on my television show on PBS to discuss his CD and the challenges facing independent music artists pursuing their right to self-determination. Prince has given to our youth and I need your help to give a little back to him.

Thank you again for your support and for your consideration.
Keep the Faith!

Tavis Smiley

No comments: