New Mexico based acoustic/ pop duo Poema just signed to Tooth and Nail Records. They are the 50th most popular unsigned acoustic band on MySpace, and are the number one most popular acoustic band in New Mexico. The band has upcoming Cornerstone Dates. Go listen to the track Blue Sweater. Contact: bcmclane@aol.com

Following the break-up of Budapest in 2006, John Garrison moved to New York City and immersed himself in the city’s music scene in search of a new sound. He recorded a solo album on his own label then left for 15 months to tour with James Blunt as well as playing bass for Leona Lewis and Gary Barlow. While on tour he wrote this album and recorded it with grammy winning producer Matt Shane ( Dashboard Confessional, Rosanne Cash, The Wreckers, Elvis Costello). He is showcasing songs from the new album for labels in London at Monto Water Rats on July 2nd and will be playing in NYC in August. Check out the track Go and Rendezvous. Contact: justin@kiqstartmusic.com

Michael Jackson was a force in the music world, defining the eighties. Michael was a true musical genius and visionary – artists that we don’t experience anymore and will probably never again. In fact, I have always used Michael Jackson as a reference point for “GREATNESS” with my discussions with artists.

Michael left us legendary songs along with timeless videos. Billy Jean, Beat It, and Thriller are some of the best directed music videos of all time.

Those videos were mini movies, giving us a narrative to the song that we haven’t seen before. How many videos can you close your eyes and literally replay the whole video in your mind? Each frame had relevance, created for perfection.

Although Michael was a gifted human being, it certainly came with a host of problems. Let us learn of the darkness that can come along with the fame and fortune. As one philosopher said, “How does one live on the inside when everything one wants on the outside is within reach but has left one emptier on the inside than before?”

We all know the famous songs from Michael, with that said, let me leave you with one of my favorite obscure songs with the King of Pop singing the chorus in the track called Somebody’s Watching Me.

My condolences goes out to his family.

Los Angeles/UK girl group Pretty Little Problem are creating a solid buzz for themselves. Jeff Fraso at CAA Booking (Miley Cyrus, Jonas Brothers ,Leona Lewis,) just picked up the act and they just finished performing for Warner Brothers and Interscope. Also, these girls play their own instruments and write their own material. Check out the tracks I Am What I Am and Don’t Wanna Cry No More.
Contact: Roger@bam-ent.com (US) or matt@bam-ent.com (UK)

Taylor Warren following in the foot steps of pop songwriters including Mraz and Mayer has had a busy year. His music was placed on MTV and Animal Planet, opened up for Sugar Ray and has been performing for labels recently. His myspace has been garnering 25k plays a day. Has a Key Club performance on July 14th in Hollywood. Contact: rgisborne@gmail.com