Press Releases:
Click link below for complete archived Press Release listings through PR.Log. Most current listed below
Press Releases
February 8th, 2019
Robert Venable & Jake Jones of the podcast “TURNED UP” talk with legendary artist JT Carter
Robert & Jake interview legendary recording artist JT Carter, original founding member of The Crests, as they explore the music industry as it was, compared to how it is now and the many people JT has known throughout his 60 year career.
Robert Venable & Jake Jones, both known for the success they have achieved in their careers speaks with legendary artist JT Carter, founder of The Crests.
About JT Carter and The Crests ~
Founded by J.T. Carter, the group included Talmadge “Tommy” Gough (1939-2014), Harold “Chico” Torres (deceased) and Patricia Van Dross (1943-1993) (older sister of R&B singer Luther Vandross). Carter selected vocalist Johnny Mastrangelo (Johnny Maestro) as his lead vocalist.
The Crests were discovered in 1956 while singing in the New York City subways, by the wife of orchestra leader Al Browne. Browne connected the group with Joyce Records where they recorded their first two songs, “My Juanita” and “Sweetest One”. The group had several songs appear on the US Top 100 charts including “16 Candles”, “Sweetest One”, “Six Nights a Week”, “Step by Step” and other hit songs.
About Robert Venable ~
Robert Venable is a Grammy nominated, Dove Award winning record producer/mixer/
Robert’s recording studio is just 20 minutes south of Nashville, where he produces and mixes his projects. In addition to music production, Robert has mixed sound for feature length films, television, and commercials. A few of his sound for video clients include Sony, Saturday Night Live, Lexus, Burger King, Disney/Pixar, and more. You can find out more about Robert on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms. (Source: Robert Venable.com)
About Jake Jones ~
Learning his first song on guitar at 6-years-old, Jake Jones is no stranger to the six string. As a teen living in a small town dominated by sports teams and cow tipping, musicians and musical opportunities were few and far between. With no one to jam with and a burning desire to make music of his own, he picked up a four track recorder and became his own band. From drums to piano, Jake Jones began expanding and fine-tuning his musical abilities in an effort to write and produce his own music. By the time he graduated from high school, Jake had already begun to build a clientele that would span from country and bluegrass to hip/hop and metal.
Today, Jake plays guitar for the Atlantic Records rock group “We as Human”. Having toured with a diverse array of artists from worship acts including Kari Jobe and Newsong to heavy hitters like Shinedown and Papa Roach, it has allowed him to keep a keen eye on an ever changing music industry. His attention to detail and the ability to play an array of instruments have made him a proverbial “triple threat” in an industry where budgets are shrinking and the demand is growing. (Source: Jake Jones Official Facebook Page)
About TurnedUp Podcast ~
Producer/audio engineer/professional guitarist, Jake Jones and award winning producer/audio engineer, Robert Venable bring in legendary guests to pull back the curtain and give you a peek into the behind the scenes operation that keeps the music industry running like a well oiled machine.
February 4th, 2019 pod cast (S2-EP:16) – TurnedUp
Listen to Robert & Jake’s interview with JT Carter.
Podcast at: https://turneduppodcast.podbean.com/?
Media relations/opportunities for JT Carter contact: EA Kroll Productions at: eakroll@eakrollproductions.com (Re: JT Carter)
August 15th, 2018
Senator Mario Scavello to cut ribbon at ceremony for new gym opening in Pocono Manor, PA
On August 18th, 2018 from 12pm to 5PM you are invited to join fitness expert Dwayne Martin for the Grand Opening of his new venture “Forever Fitness” located at 392 Manor Drive, Pocono Manor, PA. 18349, just off of route 314 and route 611.
Senator Mario Scavello will be attending the event and cutting the ribbon in a ceremony scheduled for 1pm. Also in attendance will be The Monroe County Veterans Affairs Office along with hip/hop dance instructor CJ Fuentes and psychic clairvoyant Bill Bradley will be on hand along with much more.
WSBG 93.5FM will be broadcasting “LIVE”from the events location. Come one, come all and tour the new facilities, meet staff and enjoy discounted sign ups. Discounts also available for veterans and seniors.
Forever Fitness will have a “LIVE” DJ on site along with raffles, giveaways and demos of classes offered! Check out the health food and snacks also presented that day.
About Forever Fitness:
Forever Fitness (F2) started as a fitness group and evolved into a family. It was formed by the people, for the people. The name of the company wouldn’t be what it is now if it weren’t for those exercising within it. The name is more than just that, it makes up the members and their values.
Monthly memberships start out at just $25.00 for a basic package with NO sign-up fee and full access to the gym with classes. The gym also offers $10.00 day passes along with spa and pool packages, basketball, zumba, dance, aerobic, yoga and so much more. Personal training also available.
About Dwayne Martin:
Dwayne discovered the transformative powers of exercise as a child. “I was always skinny and hated it, so I wanted to make a change to my body. I started curling the older model Lego boxes with the handles and, as I progressed, I’d put more and more Lego’s in the box. I would also do sit-ups and challenge my older brother to see who could do the most without resting. As I got older, I replaced the Lego boxes with 5 pound dumbbells and would watch TV while doing curls. As time passed, I increased the weights to 10 pounds, as well as the number of sit-ups. I was amazed as my muscles became significantly more defined.”
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Dwayne went on to serve his country for 10 years in the Army National Guard. He did one tour in Kuwait. His dedication to good health and fitness became his physical and mental foundation for stability as he faced the many challenges of deployment. “The workouts I performed in the gym became stress relievers; they gave me strength and turned my negatives into positives.” Through extensive research, the encouragement of friends, and experience, Dwayne says, “I learned how to eat properly, establish a workout routine, and to safely use vitamin and mineral supplements.”
As an exercise instructor with the YMCA; a Metafit™ “boot camp” coach; and a one-on-one personal trainer, Dwayne receives rave reviews from his students and clients. “I’m looking forward to this more and more.” “People like you are hard to come by.” “You’ve got soul.” His success formula consists of equal parts sweat, perseverance, proper nutrition, and positivity.
To schedule a tour or to sign up please call (570) 606-3489
More info at: http://www.foreverfitnessf2.com
Forever Fitness
392 Manor Dr.
Pocono Manor, PA. 18349
Writing credits include: Roseanne Bottone, EA Kroll Productions & Forever Fitness
August 1st, 2018
Fitness expert and US Veteran Dwayne Martin opens up new gym in the Pocono Mountains of PA
On August 18th, 2018 from 12pm to 5PM you are invited to join fitness expert Dwayne Martin for the Grand Opening of his new venture “Forever Fitness” located at 392 Manor Drive, Pocono Manor, PA. 18349, just off of route 314 and route 611.
WSBG 93.5FM will be broadcasting “LIVE”from the events location. Come one, come all and tour the new facilities, meet staff and enjoy discounted sign ups. Discounts also available for veterans and seniors.
Forever Fitness will have a “LIVE” DJ on site along with raffles, giveaways and demos of classes offered! Check out the health food and snacks also presented that day.
About Forever Fitness:
Forever Fitness (F2) started as a fitness group and evolved into a family. It was formed by the people, for the people. The name of the company wouldn’t be what it is now if it weren’t for those exercising within it. The name is more than just that, it makes up the members and their values.
Monthly memberships start out at just $25.00 for a basic package with NO sign-up fee and full access to the gym with classes. The gym also offers $10.00 day passes along with spa and pool packages, basketball, zumba, dance, aerobic, yoga and so much more. Personal training also available.
About Dwayne Martin:
Dwayne discovered the transformative powers of exercise as a child. “I was always skinny and hated it, so I wanted to make a change to my body. I started curling the older model Lego boxes with the handles and, as I progressed, I’d put more and more Lego’s in the box. I would also do sit-ups and challenge my older brother to see who could do the most without resting. As I got older, I replaced the Lego boxes with 5 pound dumbbells and would watch TV while doing curls. As time passed, I increased the weights to 10 pounds, as well as the number of sit-ups. I was amazed as my muscles became significantly more defined.”
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Dwayne went on to serve his country for 10 years in the Army National Guard. He did one tour in Kuwait. His dedication to good health and fitness became his physical and mental foundation for stability as he faced the many challenges of deployment. “The workouts I performed in the gym became stress relievers; they gave me strength and turned my negatives into positives.” Through extensive research, the encouragement of friends, and experience, Dwayne says, “I learned how to eat properly, establish a workout routine, and to safely use vitamin and mineral supplements.”
As an exercise instructor with the YMCA; a Metafit™ “boot camp” coach; and a one-on-one personal trainer, Dwayne receives rave reviews from his students and clients. “I’m looking forward to this more and more.” “People like you are hard to come by.” “You’ve got soul.” His success formula consists of equal parts sweat, perseverance, proper nutrition, and positivity.
To schedule a tour or to sign up please call (570) 606-3489
More info at: http://www.foreverfitnessf2.com
Forever Fitness
392 Manor Dr.
Pocono Manor, PA. 18349
July 30th, 2018
14 year old Kaitlyn Booth joins the EA Kroll Productions family of actors and models
Kaitlyn Booth inks deal for services to further herself in the acting field. EA Kroll Productions is pleased to welcome her to our family of artists, actors and models.
PHILADELPHIA – July 30, 2018
Kaitlyn hails from the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania where she will start her freshman year of high school. Kaitlyn is a member of many school musical groups including jazz band, marching band, and two choirs. She also performs in school musicals.
Kaitlyn loves to write, act, sing and has been musically inclined her entire life. Her interest in musical theater began when she was in third grade and played Cinderella in a poem theater production. – She also had one of her original poems published. In Junior High School, Kaitlyn acted and sang in Singin’ in the Rain, which was her first major production, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dreamcoat, where she played the oldest brother Reuben. Kaitlyn is an accomplished trumpet player and has been playing for more than 6 years and has played in marching bands.
“My education is also one of my biggest priorities. I earned three awards this school year overall for the “Highest Work-Ethic in Science,” “Most Improved Grades,” and the “Woody Herman Jazz Leadership and Excellence Award.” I have achieved high honors every marking period this year and I’ve been a member of the gifted program since the second grade.” States Kaitlyn ~
For several years, she studied martial arts and is currently ranked as a second-degree brown belt. This practice helped her learn commitment, discipline, focus, memorization, and endurance. She uses her rank to teach children and adults of other belt ranks. “In all things I enjoy, strive for, and am committed to, I always want to be my very best. I have a great ability to multi-task and enjoy the work.” States Kaitlyn ~
Her friends and associates say she is animated, funny, quirky, and a unique person. She embrace’s the fact that she is not like everyone else.
Website: http://eakrollproductions.com/kaitlyn-booth/
Opportunities for Kaitlyn contact:
EA Kroll Productions at: eakroll@eakrollproductions.com or 313-220-4757
US mail at:
Kaitlyn Booth C/O EA Kroll Productions
P.O. Box 128
Shawnee, PA. 18356
May 29th, 2017
R & B Artist Marquis Wooten Inks Publicity Agreement With EA Kroll Productions
Recording artist and performer with The Drifters and JT Carter’s Crests, Marquis Wooten signs one year publicity deal with east coast based PR firm, EA Kroll of EA Kroll Productions.
MANHATTAN, N.Y. – May 29, 2017 –
About Marquis Wooten:
Marquis, also known as Nathaniel Wooten Junior, is an R’n’B/ Soul balladeer and songwriter who performs nationally. Marquis currently lives with his wife in Bushkill, Pennsylvania. Marquis’s musical versatility and passion for music complemented with his charming, anecdotal and comedic routine allows attain positive recognition as an entertainer within the country.
Musician
As a young child, born in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Marquis’s passion for music sprouted. He began playing a variety instruments, starting as a trumpeter at nine-years-old. His musical versatility and his vocal and instrumental performances at small, local clubs and venues, especially at such a young age, received recognition from artists and professional musician managers. This exposure presented opportunities within the music and entertainment industry.
Prior to this opportunity, Marquis’s father, Nathaniel Wooten Senior, and Duke Anderson were his mentors in is musicianship, paving his way into the music industry. These two individuals, as well as other critically-acclaimed musicians of his time, became his sole inspirations in his pursuit in the music industry.
By fourteen, Marquis played up to approximately eight-to-ten instruments, and he became the lead drummer for American guitarist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Chuck Berry, travelling and performing exclusively with his band at various clubs and venues.
After his career with Chuck Berry, Marquis was inspired to set out for his own music career. As an aspiring and starting musician, Marquis would perform at clubs, playing R’n’B and local disco house club music. Also, since he did not have anyone to represent him and was not popular enough at the time to receive representation, he would knock door-to-door at small market radio stations, asking them to play his music on air.
During the late 70’s, Marquis, in his 20’s, signed a record deal with Melba Moore as a soul vocalist.
In 1982, Marquis released his club song single entitled, “I Won’t Treat You that Way.”
In June 1985 at the Bell Plaza in Galveston, Texas, Marquis performed at the first annual “Juneteenth in the New Decade: Education, Equality, and Justice” program. The ceremony is a commemoration of the end of slavery within the United States.
In 1989, at the Rhythm and Blues Awards, Marquis performed alongside major artists like MC Hammer, Vanity, N.W.A., and Blue Magic.
On September 28th, 1999, AMBYAN Records released Marquis’s three-track album entitled “Tangalang.”
His songs can be found on YouTube and ITunes:
Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/
ITunes (https://itunes.apple.com/
Throughout his career, Marquis has opened for prominent musicians in the entertainment industry, including: Jennifer Holiday, David Peston, The Fugees, etc.
Currently, Marquis performs as solo artist in local, sophisticated venues throughout the east Coast. Not only as a solo artist, Marquis performs with the 1950’s nationally-recognized, Doo-Wop group, The Drifters and JT Carter’s Crests. So far, Marquis has written up to nine albums worth of music that he plans to perform, record, produce, and release.
More about Marquis At:
http://eakrollproductions.com/
Media – Public Relations – Bookings
Contact:
EA Kroll Productions
P.O. Box 128
Shawnee, PA. 18356
P: 313-220-4757 E: eakroll@eakrollproductions.com
Member: NARAS
January 17th, 2017
Realtor Diana C. Marcus Receives Five Year, Five Star Real Estate Award
About Diana C. Marcus:
Diana has over 15 years’ experience in the New Jersey and Pennsylvania markets. Her listings range from $50,000.00 to well over $800,000.00.
In the past 15 years Diana has received multiple awards for real estate not only in New Jersey but also in Pennsylvania. Her record is unsurpassed for service in the field of real estate excellence.
About Re/Max:
RE/MAX, short for “Real Estate Maximums,” is an American international real estate company that operates through a franchise system. The company has held the number one market share in the United States and Canada since 1999, as measured by residential transaction sides. RE/MAX has more than 100,000 agents in 6,800 offices. RE/MAX operates in about 100 countries.
RE/MAX University has been featured in Training Magazine’s Top 125 Organizations recognizing employee development.
The RE/MAX Commercial division launched a new website in 2012 and has been recognized as a Top Real Estate Brokerage Firm by National Real Estate Investor.
In 2016, RE/MAX was recognized as the top real estate franchise, for the fourth consecutive year, in the annual Franchise 500 survey by Entrepreneur magazine. The company has held the top spot for 13 out of 17 years. RE/MAX was also included as the leading real estate franchise on the Franchise Times Top 200 list for the eighth consecutive year in 2016.
Diana C. Marcus contact information
Licensed in New Jersey & Pennsylvania
Re/Max House Values
180 Howard blvd., ste 3
Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856
Cell: (973) 713-5103
Office: (973) 601-1212
Fax: (973) 601-1211
dmarcus.remax-
Re/Max Crossroads
805 Seven bridge road
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Cell: (973) 713-5103
Office: (570) 424-8850
Fax: (570) 424-8852
pacrossroads.com
January 2nd, 2017
Professor Rob McKenzie inks agent deal with EA Kroll Productions
About Rob McKenzie:
Rob McKenzie, Ph.D., is the Chairperson and a Professor of Communication at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, where he has taught for 25 years. He teaches Radio Practicum, Introduction to Mass Media, Critical Perspectives on Social Media Use, and Comparative Media (which he has also taught in several countries including the UK, France, Mexico, China and this coming summer in Sweden).
He is also the Advisor to WESS Radio (90.3 FM), recipient of the MTV Woodie Award in 2014 for being the “best college radio station in the country.” McKenzie is host of three radio shows: Rhythm Rock, The Talk Show, and the Stones Hour. McKenzie has seen the Rolling Stones in concert over a dozen times dating back to 1982. He has seen them in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Toronto, Montreal and Copenhagen.
His research focus has been mainly in international media. He has published over a dozen journal articles, delivered dozens of paper presentations at conferences, and written the book, Comparing Media from Around the World (Allyn and Bacon, 2006). Because of his research, he was hired as a consultant for the US Embassy in Mexico City, and the US Consulate in Juarez City, Mexico. McKenzie’s most recent research publication, which he co-authored with his wife, Kelly McKenzie, is called “Role Depictions of Women and Men in CCTV News,” and is coming out in the China Media Research journal in early 2017.
He has branched out of academic writing to produce a manuscript called Rounding Some Corners, which is a humorous collection of columns examining life’s oddball ironies. Each column is designed to have double meanings getting the reader to puzzle out what the columns are about. The result is that readers gain a sometimes shocking appreciation for and examination of life’s seemingly mundane circumstances. The first volume of Rounding Some Corners is complete, and he plans on writing other volumes to serialize Rounding Some Corners.
McKenzie is the son of British parents. His father was Scottish and his mother is English. McKenzie is married to Kelly McKenzie, a professor in the Department of Academic Enrichment and Learning at ESU. McKenzie has two children: Fiona, 19 years old, and Gordon, 16 years old.
EA Kroll Productions will be working closely with McKenzie on his latest manuscripts along with social media.
More info about Rob McKenzie at:
http://eakrollproductions.com/
About EA Kroll Productions:
Erik A. Kroll, founder of EA Kroll Productions, began his career in the entertainment business in 1986 when he was just 16 years old as the public relations director for a Pennsylvania-
At EA Kroll Productions we embrace the highest standards for excellence by providing our clients with innovative personal attention. We represent artists who have a strong sense of personal responsibility and a desire to benefit from the synergy of a team approach. We value ethical business practices and strive to create relationships built on trust. Our creative, results-oriented strategies are designed to guide and encourage our clients to achieve their individual career goals. We are committed to treating our artists with respect and enthusiasm.
www.eakrollproductions.com
October 27, 2016
Screenwriter DS Brechner signs contract with EA Kroll Productions for another two years
Screenwriter DS Brechner who is currently working on a multi-million-dollar movie deal has just signed for two more years with EA Kroll Productions.
DS Brechner who has recently finished a re-write on his latest movie project entitled “The Diamond Chase” and is currently funding this multi-million-
EA Kroll Productions is proud to extend Brechners contract for another two-year period. “We look forward to this amazing project by DS and support him fully in any way possible.” says EA Kroll
About DS Brechner:
He began his professional entertainment career in the “smoking hot” South Beach music scene. He became well known making hot Miami Bass tracks in the early 1990’s. Ds worked with some of the biggest names in the South Florida music scene. Musicians, Rap and Hip/Hop stars such as, Aka Jealous J “Jim Jonsin Record Producer “who did beats for Lil Jon, T.I., B.O.B., Nelly, Lil Wayne and Eminem, Trick Daddy, Pitbull, Justin Bieber, Beyoncé, Lil Jon, Usher to name a few. He also owned his own record label at the age of (16), Ozone Records Inc. and teamed up with the group called MVP with Singer/Actor Jay Leopardi MVP who did the song “Do It to Me”, which hit the charts on Always Fresh Records and was produced by Danny “D” who did “Boom I Got Your Girl-friend and also helped with All-stars of Bass of SoSo Def Records. He also teamed up with Kenny “G” from the Get Some -Crew and did a song called “Let me see you shake for Money”.
Ds moved on to the Atlanta, GA club scene and one of the biggest parties in the ATL for SoSo Def Records at SoHo Night Club again making his mark as a top-notch club “DJ”. Ds worked in and out of the studio cutting CD’s with some of the top names on the east coast, but something was missing and Ds knew exactly what it was. He wanted to write and so it began…
First, just short outlines which developed into full blown screenplays. Ds had the ambition but he needed to learn the technique. In 1999, Ds took his passion for the written word to the next level and started to write feature film scripts. He worked at the craft, day and night perfecting his own unique style. He became a student of best-selling author and screenwriter, Lee Shargel. Ds attended Lee’s creative writing course entitled, “Peeling the Onion,” this was the catalyst. He then went on to write his first major screenplay, “Breach”. The year was 2002 and the place was the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Ds kept at it, honing his writing craft and learning the ropes of the film business. From there, he continued working on screenplays for feature films and went on to write several pilot projects. Television /Film:
In 2006 Ds started working with Blake Snyder who wrote the book “Save the Cat”. He worked hand and hand with Blake learning the ropes in Hollywood, acquiring the tools needed to move ahead as a screen writer. In 2007 Ds linked up with Darice Rollins best known for movies “College Road Trip” (associate producer) 2008, “Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins” (associate producer) 2007, “Wild Hogs” (associate producer) 2006, “Big Momma’s House 2” (associate producer) 2005, “Rebound “(associate producer), “Mo’ Money” (assistant to producers) 1992, “Bad Boys II” (executive assistant: Mr. Lawrence). In 2010 Ds worked with Scott Storch on a few projects and then took a hiatus. Ds is represented by the talent agency Avail Talent, out of Orange County California with agent Joaquin Sahaghun who Ds is signed too now. Ds has also been signed to publicist EA Kroll of EA Kroll Productions for the last two years. In 2016 Ds wrote two scripts, the film Runner and the film The Diamond Chase. He is currently working on getting the film produced in 2017.
Media Relations for DS Brechner Contact:
EA Kroll at: eakroll@eakrollproductions.com
Recording Academy Member – Philadelphia, PRSA Member
EA Kroll Productions
P.O. Box 128, 818 Hollow Rd
Shawnee, PA. 18356
Office (313)-220-4757
Management/Public Relations/Social Media
Agent info at:
Joaquin Sahaghun – Office (714) 545-1473
SAG – AFTRA – WGA-west
Office (714) 545-1473 Cell (714) 206-5759
Avail Talent
More info about DS Brechner and EA Kroll Productions at:
http://eakrollproductions.com/
September 18, 2016
Jordan White “High Road” EP Release Party
Come celebrate the release of Jordan’s new EP “High Road” with Pangea Records and EA Kroll Productions. Special guest performance by Carly Clark.
Pre-order your EP/T-shirts and get the early bird prices by contacting, kelly@ipangearecords.com Food and drink specials along with prize giveaways ~ Meet and great with Jordan and autograph session.
About Jordan Whites new EP “High Road”:
More info at: www.jordanwhitemusic.com
Album title: “High Road”
Track order listing (with proper spellings)
1) High Road
2) Like The Rain
3) 12/26
4) September
5) Comin’ Round Again
6) Random Hearts
Song writing credits:
1)High Road: Music & Lyrics by Jordan F White and Eric Sanicola ©℗2016 Pangea Records
2)Like The Rain: Music & Lyrics by Jordan F White, ©℗ 2016 Pangea Records
3)12/26:
4)September:
©℗ 2016 Pangea Records
5) Comin’ Round Again: Music & Lyrics by Jordan F White ©℗ 2016 Pangea Records
6) Random Hearts: Music & Lyrics by Jordan F White ©℗ 2016 Pangea Records
Electric guitar: Mike Mulieri
Acoustic guitar: Jordan F. White
Bass guitar: Marc Russell
Harmonica: Jordan F. White
Piano: Jordan F. White
Percussion: Shawn “Salchi” Dieppa Freytes
Recorded January 2016 at Logos Studios in Massapequa, NY
Recorded, Produced & Mixed by Jim Annuziato
Co-produced by Scott Gross and Don D. Belch, courtesy of Equinox Studios, Dallastown, PA
Mastered by Glenn Thomas at iTune Audio in Springdale, Newfoundland, Canada
Eric Sanicola appears courtesy of RedOne Productions
Investor/Promoter Nick Song of X-Treme Party Team
Management: Kelly Entertainment Booking & Promotions- Kelly-Jo Taylor (Jordan F White’s Manager)
Record Label: Pangea Records
About Pangrea Records:
Pangea Records is an indie label with backing from the greatest “Movers & Shakers” in the business. Pangea produced Jordan White’s EP with Grammy Award Winning Producer, Jim Annunziato, and co-producers Eric Sanicola, Scott Gross, and engineer Don Belch.
Jim Annunziato has had a very successful career and intends on raising the bar for the future. Jim’s work has been recognized by both the RIAA as a multi-platinum selling engineer, and The Recording Academy as a Grammy Award Winning Engineer, and most recently Jim was awarded a Grammy for “record of the year” in Marc Anthony’s record entitled “Vivir Mi Vida” 2013.
Eric Sanicola produced and wrote songs for, One Direction, Dizzee Rascal, Panama Wedding, Cher Lloyd, Banners, Big Time Rush, Cascada, Paulina Rubio, Bonnie Anderson, Yanni, SHINee, and other well-known Artists. Pangea Records is currently in talks with Eric Sanicola about possibly becoming a partner on the record label. This hasn’t been made official as of yet but we are excited at the possibilities of partnering with him, and another producer.
Co-producer Scott Gross, former lead guitarist and songwriter for From Autumn to Ashes and picked up by Warner Bros. until his almost fatal accident that finally ended his career. He now produces records with Jim Annunziato and Don Belch and has his own business Scott Gross Productions.
Engineer, Don Belch former songwriter and lead guitarist for the band Ninetail is now working on a current project with the former singer, Jay Heitmann of Ninetail. Don is currently working on another music project, Seraphine in which he composes music and is the lead guitarist for this project. Don Belch is a music producer/partner on the label.
Nick Song, promoter/ investor and partner on the label is a graduate of Red Lion Area Sr. High School in 1991, and currently the investor/partner of Pangea Records. He is an entrepreneur of several businesses to include International Project Management LLC, Song Global, Extreme Party Team, Pangea Records, Contracting Solutions, and Kimchi Marketing. Nick currently holds a bachelor’s of Science degree at Drexel University, graduated 1993.
Kelly-Jo Taylor a graduate of Red Lion Area Sr. High School in 1990, and currently the founder of Pangea Records. She is an entrepreneur of several past and present business projects to include Pangea Records, Farner Entertainment, Kelly Entertainment Booking & Promotions, Kelly’s Maid Service, Contracting Solutions, Kimchi Marketing, and Taylor Art & Photography. In the summer of 2006 Kelly was named “Entrepreneur who made second street” in the entertainment section of the patriot news in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Kelly currently holds an associate’s degree in Business Management from Colorado Technical University, and is currently studying for her bachelor’s degree in Business Development & Marketing.
Producers of Jordan Whites EP
Jim Annunziato, Grammy Award Winning Producer at Logos Studio, Massapequa, New York
Eric Sanicola, Producer/Songwriter at Thundaxtraxx/
Scott Gross, Producer at Logos Studio & Equinox Studios
Don Belch, Producer/Engineer/
About EA Kroll Productions:
EA Kroll Productions offers integrated publicity, promotional and management services to musicians, bands, actors, small businesses and for events.
Erik A. Kroll, founder of EA Kroll Productions, began his career in the entertainment business in 1986 when he was just 16 years old as the public relations director for a Pennsylvania-
www.eakrollproductions.com
August 17, 2016
Fitness Model and Trainer Dwayne Martin inks publicity contract with EA Kroll Productions
Dwayne is one of only 100 elite Metafit™ certified instructors in the US and the only one within a 50 mile radius of his hometown of Stroudsburg, PA. His students – both men and women – are of all ages and physical abilities. He is also authorized to train fitness professionals looking for the workout that gets big results and increases client retention and revenue. The Metafit™ program was created by a former Royal Marine Commando; it combines the latest high intensity interval training techniques with traditional bodyweight exercises. It is not a home workout, nor is it available on DVD. The instructor-led routine is designed to set the metabolism on fire! The effects of this workout last more than 24 hours, boost the metabolism and burn body fat at the same time.
As an exercise instructor with the YMCA; a Metafit™ “boot camp” coach; and a one-on-one personal trainer, Dwayne receives rave reviews from his students and clients. “I’m looking forward to this more and more.” “People like you are hard to come by.” “You’ve got soul.” His success formula consists of equal parts sweat, perseverance, proper nutrition, and positivity.
Dwayne discovered the transformative powers of exercise as a child. “I was always skinny and hated it, so I wanted to make a change to my body. I started curling the older model Lego boxes with the handles and, as I progressed, I’d put more and more Legos in the box. I would also do sit-ups and challenge my older brother to see who could do the most without resting. As I got older, I replaced the Lego boxes with 5 pound dumbbells and would watch TV while doing curls. As time passed, I increased the weights to 10 pounds, as well as the number of sit-ups. I was amazed as my muscles became significantly more defined.”
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Dwayne went on to serve his country for 10 years in the Army National Guard. He did one tour in Kuwait. His dedication to good health and fitness became his physical and mental foundation for stability as he faced the many challenges of deployment. “The workouts I performed in the gym became stress relievers; they gave me strength and turned my negatives into positives.” Through extensive research, the encouragement of friends, and experience, Dwayne says, “I learned how to eat properly, establish a workout routine, and to safely use vitamin and mineral supplements.”
Dwayne’s journey has evolved to include a Men’s Physique Competition planned for 2017. In addition, his outstanding look and dynamic personality caught the attention of Philadelphia’s premier casting agent, Roz Fulton. He has signed with her Direction & Exposure Casting Agency with plans to model, and act in films and commercials.
Bio/Article by: Roseanne Bottone
You can find more on Dwayne Martin at:
http://eakrollproductions.com/
Opportunities contact: eakroll@eakrollproductions.com
About EA Kroll Productions:
EA Kroll Productions offers integrated publicity, promotional and management services to musicians, bands, actors, small businesses and for events.
Mission Statement
At EA Kroll Productions we embrace the highest standards for excellence by providing our clients with innovative personal attention. We represent artists who have a strong sense of personal responsibility and a desire to benefit from the synergy of a team approach. We value ethical business practices and strive to create relationships built on trust. Our creative, results-oriented strategies are designed to guide and encourage our clients to achieve their individual career goals. We are committed to treating our artists with respect and enthusiasm.
Erik A. Kroll, founder of EA Kroll Productions, began his career in the entertainment business in 1986 when he was just 16 years old as the public relations director for a Pennsylvania-
Today EA Kroll Productions boasts a roster of pure, raw talent that encompasses the rock and roll sound of MaddaM Ink and the hard-rock talent of the nationally acclaimed artist, Tom Martini and Boston rockers Age of End. We’re proud to offer a non-violent hip/hop act, G.Sol, Recording Academy Member Rihki Kennebrew along with Billboard legends JT Carter of The Crests, Ernest Wright of Little Anthony and the Imperials among others to include models, actors, screenwriters and authors. These artists are unique, talented, successful and on the verge of exploding onto the world-wide music scene. Each artist gives generously to the charity of their choice through music downloads. We also wish to acknowledge the endorsers which stand behind some of our artists including: Morley Pedals, Sonic Fusion Pedals, Zoom, Samson, Lava Cables, Hartke, EB Tech, Steve Clayton Picks, Free Will, Mayones Guitars, Rock Box Pedals, Silverfox Drum Sticks, Arnar Clothing and recently Ibanez Guitars.
www.eakrollproductions.com
June 20, 2016
Former American Idol Inks PR Deal with EA Kroll of EA Kroll Productions
Jordan White inked a deal with EA Kroll Productions for public relations and social media leading up to his digital EP release later this month.
About Jordan White ~
White was born in Cranford, New Jersey but his family moved to Pennsylvania around the age of 12. White moved with his family to Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Nazareth Area High School and went on to graduate with an A.A. from Northampton Community College and received a B.A. from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania;
White explained that some periods of depression experienced as a teenager led to composing original music, stating that music “saved me from being another statistic.”
White says his musical influences “started with singer-songwriters out of the 1970s,” referencing Van Morrison, Jackson Browne and Billy Joel. He also cites Guns N’ Roses, Counting Crows, Tom Petty, The Beatles, Ritchie Valens and The Clash. His music is considered a mixture of alternative, acoustic-confessional pop-rock.
White has performed as a solo artist and with cover bands, an acoustic trio, and an alternative rock.
Kinetic Blu formed in Allentown, Pennsylvania in 2008 although inactive until the acoustic act Foreplay, in which White, guitarist Brian Kibler and vocalist Tara Crowe, had been performing with merged with drummer Rob Lilly. White was performing a solo show in the Lehigh Valley when he was approached by Lilly about a new band he was forming. The media had once dubbed Kinetic Blu “The Lehigh Valley’s Sexiest Rock Band”.
Kinetic Blu was named Alternative Addiction’s “Next Big Thing” for the month of October 2010 and performed at the fifth annual Bethlehem Harvest and third annual Blue Mountain “Rock The Fall” Festivals and in February 2011, performed at the 15th annual Millennium Music Conference & Showcase in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, an event which draws nearly 300 musical acts from across the country.
During the summer of 2015, White signed with Flexitone Records and began recording the upcoming single “Crazy Girl” with producer David Ivory. The track was mastered by Tom Coyne. The song was released nationally on the Flexitone label in September 2015.
In January 2016, White recorded a new six song EP entitled “High Road” with Grammy-award winning producer Jim Annunziato at Logos Studios in Massapequa, NY. Contributing to the recording included multi-platinum selling producer and songwriter Eric Sanicola and From Autumn to Ashes rhythm guitarist Scott Gross. The EP is expected to be released in the spring of 2016
Overall, critical reviews of White’s “Four Songs” has been mixed to positive and the lead single “Maybe Amy” was placed into rotation at hundreds of U.S. and U.K. radio stations. In an interview on Philadelphia radio he explained the EP was an “attempt to fuse the confessional singer-songwriter vibe stemming from Southern California during the 1970’s with a 1990’s alternative, full band sound. The Sentinel’s Stacy Brown remarked that “Four Songs” “contains moments of pop and flavor of southern rock paired with plenty of clean guitar licks amongst White’s clear and distinctive vocals.”
White is a Nissan racing enthusiast, and has custom Datsuns, Nissan Sentras and 200sxes that are powered by the SR20DE and SR20VE engines. He mentioned that if he wasn’t a musician he “would love to work on race cars.” White says that when he first purchased a brand new Chevrolet Corvette he soon returned it “because it just wasn’t me.” He is also a registered independent and animal lover, owning Chihuahuas, Dobermans, Siamese cats, and recently adopted a 2lb chihuahua from a rescue. His mother also raises seeing-eye German Shepherds.
White also is a lifelong Philadelphia Phillies fan and in an interview with Mike Viso from “Through The Fence Baseball” when asked about the teams’ 2008 World Series victory he replied “I’ll always know exactly where I was when it happened. I had waited for it for 20 years. The 1993 World Series loss to the Blue Jays crushed me. I was just a little kid. I stood there in shock as I watched Joe Carter round the bases jumping up and down. The Phillies winning it all was something I thought I’d never see in my lifetime. When you break it down it really is just a game, but it was one of the few things not in my control I wanted to witness before I’m gone and I’m really thankful.”
White has also spoken about hearing loss in performing musicians, saying initially he did not use ear protection but added “it’s something to think about more as I older and want to protect my senses. After shows, I’ll have this ringing in my ear where it sounds like there’s a television on.”
Media Relations for Jordan White:
Contact: eakroll@eakrollproductions.com
Bookings for Jordan White:
Contact: Comments@jordanwhitemusic.com
On Itune’s at: https://itunes.apple.com/
More info at: http://www.jordanwhitemusic.com/
March 28th, 2016
Hip/Hop Lyricist Gabriel Solano (G.Sol) Signs Publicity Deal with EA Kroll Productions
Yesterday afternoon in the Pocono mts of Pennsylvania, Hip/Hop Lyricist G.Sol inked a deal for publicity services with PA based EA Kroll Productions. This deal is expected to launch G.Sol’s music career to it’s next level in the industry.
G-Sols interest in music started as a toddler when he received a keyboard for Christmas, shortly after he picked up a guitar and started to practice. He quickly learned this was not for him and took up creative writing. As he got older he excelled in sports but his career was cut short due to medical reasons.
At this time G. Sol took the opportunity to leave school and fully invest himself in his music career. He’d always been known for being in the streets and had built a certain reputation so he decided to use this to his advantage by embodying the lessons he learned and turning them around into well thought out, eye opening lyrics. Considering he’s been writing since he was young he finds solace in incorporating intricacy in his lyrics to set himself apart. From incredible complex rhyme schemes, to double, triple and occasionally even quadruple entendres.
G. Sol makes it clear; he’s ahead of his time.
More at: http://gsolmusic.com/
About EA Kroll Productions:
EA Kroll Productions offers integrated publicity, promotional and management services to musicians, bands, actors, small businesses and for events.
Mission Statement
At EA Kroll Productions we embrace the highest standards for excellence by providing our clients with innovative personal attention. We represent artists who have a strong sense of personal responsibility and a desire to benefit from the synergy of a team approach. We value ethical business practices and strive to create relationships built on trust. Our creative, results-oriented strategies are designed to guide and encourage our clients to achieve their individual career goals. We are committed to treating our artists with respect and enthusiasm.
Erik A. Kroll, founder of EA Kroll Productions, began his career in the entertainment business in 1986 when he was just 16 years old as the public relations director for a Pennsylvania-
More about EA Kroll Productions at: http://eakrollproductions.com/
March 10th, 2016
Metafit Launch at Pocono Family YMCA on April 2nd, 2016 at 2pm with Fitness with D
Burn fat in your sleep with Metafit. Designed to work the whole body and last for over 24 hours. Metafit is a 30 minute workout which burns fat, boost metabolism and improves strength, speed and cardiovascular fitness.
Metafit is NOT A HOME WORKOUT OR AVAILABLE ON DVD, IT IS A CLASS TAUGHT LIVE BY QUALIFIED COACHES.
In 2007 Metafit was created by a former Royal Marine Commando, it combines the latest HIIT training techniques with traditional ‘Old school’ bodyweight exercises to set the metabolism on fire! Metafit is the original 30 minute, non choreographed, bodyweight only HIIT workout, with over 10,000 coaches teaching worldwide.This kind of workout last over 24 hours which boosts the metabolism and burning body fat at the same time.
The Metafit™ group workout is an effective and simple tool for fitness professionals looking for the workout that gets big results and increases client retention and revenue. To burn fat you need to change the resting metabolism, work big muscle groups with simple un choreographed, high intensity intervals and get quick results for your clients. The Metafit workout can be taught as a studio class, small group or as a one to one/personal training session. Our trademarked, branded media are now recognised as the original HIIT workout.
At the moment there is only about 100 certified Metafit instructors in the US, Fitness with D (Dwayne Martin) being one of the them. He is also currently the only Metafit coach within a 45 mile radius of the greater Pocono Mountains region.
Metafit Class Fitness with D –
April 2nd, 2016 at 2pm
Pocono Family YMCA –
Address: 809 Main St, Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Phone:(570) 421-2525
Hours: 5:30am to 9PM
More info about Metafit at:
http://www.metafit-
Fitness with D:
https://www.facebook.com/
February 12th, 2015
Actor/Model Mickeay Wil Burns cast for a Paramount Pictures production in Los Angeles
Earlier this week Mickeay Wil Burns received confirmation from casting director Helen McCready that he was cast in an untitled Paramount Pictures feature film mainstream release and will start production in Los Angeles California in August of this year. In preperation Burns is working with world renound celebrity photographer Gary Boas in Hollywood Florida on his 2015 photoshoot in the comming days.Besides his casting role with Paramount, Burns has also been cast in the following independent films: “In The Dark” (Horror), “Dude” ( Comedy) and “Through Mara’s Eyes” (Drama) also to be filmed in California but unrelated to Paramount Pictures.About Mickeay Wil Burns:Mickeay first started his career in acting through print modeling & was inspired to further his career when Tim Allen visited his hometown to film “For Richer & Poorer”.
Film/TV:
He auditioning for John Casablancas, in Philadelphia, PA for advanced acting; graduating in 2003 & auditioning for various roles in states that include Richmond, VA; Orlando, FL; New York City, NY; & Corpus Christi, TX. Mickeay landed his first debut in a Michael Herb’s production called “Made to be Broken” filmed out of Fort Lauderdale, FL, which is featured on Lifetime channel. Most recent he has been called to attend an audition for “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” out of New York, NY FOX Network.
Modeling:
His print modeling career took him to JCPenny in their Quicksilver modeling attire. Later down the road led to Kohls, Helix, and American Eagle LTD for web based advertisements.
Music:
He was the lead singer in “Mickeays Mistake” which gathered the attention of Allen Parsons from Santa Barbara, CA, who was the audio engineer for the Beatles & Pink Floyd, their Dark Side of the Moon album & behind the Allen Parsons Project; that landed him on stage with Rev Theory and Shinedown in two separate events. He is currently in the group Obnoxious Kingdom.
About Casting Director Helen McCready:
Helen McCready, C.S.A.a Canadian citizen, began working as an actor in 1985 in Vancouver, British Columbia. She started out as an extra on the hit TV show “21 Jump street” as well as assisted in extra casting at the Denise Love Talent Agency. She moved to Arizona in 1994 where she continued her career working as a casting director assistant. In 1999, Helen launched Helen Wheels Productions, LLC in Arizona. Since then, her company has successfully been expanding into other states and Canada. Now residing in Burbank, Los Angeles,California Helen’s success as a casting director has continued with Director Sam Mendes “Away We Go” and being in charge of the additional casting in Meryl Streep’s and Alec Balwdwin’s 2009 “It’s Complicated”
In 2010 Helen McCready has already cast a number of movies including the soon to be hit “Zombie drugs” as head Casting Director and “Suspicion” a Thriller/Drama. As well as working on big budget and independent films Helen has seen the potential and new talent that comes through in low budget exciting productions for the internet known as a “webseries” she is casting two “webisodes” one extremely popular and disturbingly interesting “The Resolve” and a brand new project “Writers Block”. Also new for 2010 a few potential big hit movies have landed on the desk at “Helen Wheel Productions”
February 12th, 2015
Amaryllis Santiago, The Latin Phoenix®™ to present at the 16th Annual Lehigh Valley Music Awards
After presenting, her travels will take her to Chicago Illinois to record her Smooth R&B album in mid March.About the Lehigh Valley Music Awards (LVMA) ®The Lehigh Valley Music Awards (LVMA) ® is a prestigious annual extravaganza that honors, rewards and celebrates the music industry of the greater Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. The LVMA ® is produced by The Greater Lehigh Valley Music Association (GLVMA) ®, an official non-profit 501c3 volunteer organization designed to produce music related events throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley along with providing grants for music education.Additional info at:
www.lehighvalleymusicawards.org
www.glvma.orgAbout Amaryllis Santiago aka The Latin Phoenix®™Amaryllis, aka The Latin Phoenix ®™
, is best known in the Latin community throughout the world for her sexy Latin image, and has received acclaim for her music in the Smooth R&B and Latin Salsa markets.Amaryllis’s inspiration for music began at an early age in Lebanon, PA. Music was not encouraged in her home due to a strict church upbringing. Her brothers, Ivan and Luis, would cover for her if she was involved in music. She learned how to rig the old cassette players to the main stereo to record herself singing. At times her brothers would scream, “ENOUGH already!” Ivan understood Amaryllis loved singing and promised that when she turned 21, he would take her to “Woofer Magoo’s” in Lebanon to sing Karaoke. He kept his promise and a life-long “family” relationship began with Woofer Magoo’s original owners, Georgie, Charles Bundy, and some of the patrons.
In the early 90’s, Amaryllis promised her Woofer Magoo’s “family” when she was on the big stage, they would be there as her VIPs. Charles Bundy escorted her on stage to sing her first song, and saw her go from singing Karaoke to sharing the stage with Jose Feliciano in 2013. The Woofer Magoo’s “family” was in the audience. Back in the day, Charles used to put a screen in front of Amaryllis while she sang karaoke with her hand inside her jean pockets because she was shy. Those who know Amaryllis today might raise an eyebrow if the word “shy” is used to describe her. She’s lead conga dances while handing out promo material, and, in some music circles, is affectionately known as the “aggressive queen of follow-up” because of her fierce passion for connecting people for projects.
Amaryllis’ hero, and most important inspiration, is her daughter Desa-Rhea Jefferson who was diagnosed with liver cancer at age two. As a single mother, Amaryllis promised Desi that she would never give up on her education or her music. True to her word, Amaryllis earned her MA in Music and Third Sector Leadership, and is a fierce advocate for women and children. Twenty six years later, Desi is in her third remission of battling cancer, a proud mommy of two boys, and an MBA graduate.
Her upcoming 2015 projects and collaborations are with Ray Fry, lyricist and CEO of Midas King Productions (London, UK) and his team, and Grammy Award-winning Italian producer Giampaolo Pasquile and Michele Garutti, who are currently collaborating on her next Smooth R&B Album due to be released by Play Records in early 2015.
While on a media/radio tour with Jose “Coco” Solis, her promoter in the Dominican Republic, she was introduced to Jose Peña Suazo, international merengue artist and creator of the group, “La Banda Gorda.” Suazo wrote, composed, and arranged a song for her upcoming EP album. The album will also feature original music by Julio “Gunda” Merced who is recognized as one of the most accomplished Salsa producers. (Among his accolades are over a hundred hits and seventy record productions in collaboration with Nino Segarra, Tito Gomez, Luisito Carrion, Gilberto Santa Rosa, MP All Stars, Puerto Rican Power Orchestra, Mimi Ibarra, Roberto Roena, and Willie Rosario.) This will be her third Latin Salsa music project. Her previous albums, “Sabor Latino” and “No Me Doy Por Vencida” wereGRAMMY and LATIN GRAMMY submissions for consideration in 2011 and 2012.
The “Sabor Latino” album was produced in collaboration with Aaron “El Kosherican” Levinson, winner of the Grammy for Salsa Album of the Year 2005. Edy Martinez, also a Grammy nominee, arranged and played piano on her song. (As musical director he’s accompanied icons Ray Barreto, Gato Barbieri, Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaría and Dizzy Gillespie. As a pianist, he has played with many legends of the salsa and Latin jazz world including Rubén Blades, Jerry Gonzalez, Celia Cruz, Alfredito de la Fé, Paquito de Rivera and others.)
The album “No Me Doy Por Vencida” reached #34 in The Tropical Latin Charts in 2012. It was produced in collaboration with Erben Perez (Mark Anthony’s Bass Player for 20+ years), and Craig White who is a 30-year veteran of all phases of the entertainment industry. (His engineering credits include projects with Celine Dion, Kool and the Gang, Gerald Levert, Wendy O. Williams, and most of the Philadelphia International Records roster; Phyllis Hyman, Dexter Wansel, The O’Jays, and Lou Rawls.)
The Next Level CD was her first original studio recording andreceived a special mention at Marché International du Disque et de l’Edition Musicale (MIDEM), the Cannes, France music trade fair. Amaryllis is the first jazz Latina to have 2 songs in the Top 10 of MIDEM’s Preview Magazine in 2008. (#6 – Simply Me and #10 – VFW.)
Amaryllis’ company, Syllirama Entertainment, LLC, produced the Jose Feliciano “World Tour 2013” at The Forum Auditorium in Harrisburg, PA, where she performed as his special guest. She’s aGRAMMY & Latin Academy of Recording Art and Sciences (LARAS) voting member, and former Governor for the Philadelphia Chapter of the Recording Academy. She is also a member of theHACC-Central PA Community College Music Industry Advisory Board.
To listen and purchase music visit: www.syllirama.com
February 11th, 2015
Legendary Bass Vocalist JT Carter founder of The Crests to Perform at Regional Awards Ceremony
Carter, who is the founder of the 1950’s musical group The Crests, who has over 16 million albums sold, with such famous hits as “16 Candles”, “The Angels Listen In”, “Step By Step” and many more will be performing at this year’s 16 Annual Lehigh Valley Music Awards with 20 year music veteran award recipient, June Thomas.Carter, a Vocal Hall of Fame Inductee was honored at last year’s Lehigh Valley Music Awards (15) with a lifetime achievement award presented to him by Vini Lopez of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band.This year’s awards ceremony will be held at the Artsquest Center, Steel stacks complex, Musikfest Cafe’ in Bethlehem Pennsylvania on Sunday, March 8th, 2015 at 4pm. Tickets available at www.steelstacks.org (http://www.steelstacks.org/)
About the Lehigh Valley Music Awards (LVMA) ®
The Lehigh Valley Music Awards (LVMA) ® is a prestigious annual extravaganza that honors, rewards and celebrates the music industry of the greater Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. The LVMA ® is produced by The Greater Lehigh Valley Music Association (GLVMA) ®, an official non-profit 501c3 volunteer organization designed to produce music related events throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley along with providing grants for music education.
Additional info at:
www.lehighvalleymusicawards.org
www.glvma.org
About JT Carter and The Crests:
JT Carter’s The Crests were a New York R&B doo-wop group of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Their most popular song was “16 Candles,” which rose to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959. It sold over one million copies, earning a gold disc. The interracial group had three black members (one female), one Puerto Rican, and one Italian-American. JT Carter was the 1st African American to create an interracial vocal group in The United States.
The band was founded by J. T. Carter and included Talmoudge Gough, Harold Torres, and Patricia Van Dross (older sister of R&B great Luther Van dross). Carter selected vocalist Johnny Mastrangelo (shortened to Johnny Mastro and later to Johnny Maestro) to perform as lead vocalist for the group. Maestro’s vocal style on the group’s recordings became instantly recognizable and a juke box favorite of the national teen audiences. Maestro’s quality vocals, great song selections, and recordings with dance-easy beats made the winning combination for charted hits. The group had several Top 40 hits in the late 1950s and early 1960s on Coed Records, including “16 Candles,” “Six Nights a Week,” “The Angels Listened In,” “A Year Ago Tonight,” “Step By Step” and “Trouble in Paradise.” They also charted with “Sweetest One” (Joyce label) in 1957. The Crests appeared and performed several times on national teen dance television shows in the late 1950s to include The Dick Clark show and The Joe Franklin Show.
In 1978, the group split. Carter went on to sing with Charlie Thomas’ The Drifters. Carter then reformed the group in 1980. He auditioned over 200 singers, finally settling on lead Bill Damon, Greg Sereck, and Dennis Ray and New York drummer Jon Ihle. Carter continued the group well into the 1990s.
In 1984 John Hughes teen film, Sixteen Candles, took its title from The Crests’ song, which was re-recorded by The Stray Cats for the Sixteen Candles soundtrack.
The Crests were inducted into the “United in Group Harmony Association (UGHA) Hall of Fame” in 2000. The Crests were then inducted into “The Vocal Group Hall of Fame” in 2004.
On May 9, 2012, Johnny Maestro was honored by the House of Representatives of the United States of America by Congressman Jerrold Nadler of New York.
In 2013 JT performed for Cousin Brucie at his “1st Annual Palisades Park Reunion” with Ronnie Specter, Neil Sedaka, Lesley Gore and Bobby Lewis. 13,000 attended and it was broadcast “live” on SiriusXM Radio and 2.5 million Tuned in.
On November 12th, 2013 Carter was recognized on The Pennsylvania State House Floor by Speaker of the House Sam Smith and Rep Rosemary Brown for his lifetime in the music industry and the 1stAfrican American to create an interracial vocal group in America.
