Message for April 22, 2008
Praise ye the Lord...Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet...Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord.
(From Psalm 150)
Welcome to American Classic Recordings(TM*)!
American Classic Recordings (ACR) is an independent, artist-operated record label producing professional-quality recordings in all major American genres. Our earliest recordings feature country and Gospel music.
Up ahead, if all goes as planned: new singles or albums from Andrew Wartts and the Gospel Storytellers (Gospel), Tearbook Band(Christian Rock),John Perry (Beebop), JJ Rawlings (Reggae), "The Wryte One" (poet Jonathan C. Hopkins - Spoken Word), and the American Classic Gospel Chorus for Victory (Gospel). Also, look out for new stars from New York (Grace, Truth, and Deliverance band) and Atlanta (Sharon Nesbitt). Details coming soon!
The name American Classic Recordings, suggested by an early friend and future artist of the label, singer-songwriter William Hobbs, is in the process of receiving a trademark.
By selecting only the best of the best in each major American genre we hope to build the value of this enterprise, and to serve our God and country in so doing!
Album release dates:
Car Wash - Pop-Soul-Rock (1 song) May 2008
Station/I'm Not Stupid - Rock-Jazz (2 songs) April 2008
Time to Rise - Christian Rock (12 songs) March 2008
I Gotta Dawg/Gettin' Right with the Man - Country (2 songs) February 2008
Rappin' for God - Holy HipHop (1 song) January 2008
Breaking Through - Country (12 songs) November 2007
Texas/Liberty - Country (2 songs) October 2007
I Relove You/Je Retaime - Jazz (2 songs) September 2007
Day of Praise - Gospel (4 songs) April 2007
My Country - Country (14 songs) May 2006
We Thank You - Patriotic (1 song) April 2006
We want to honor God, America, and all the world by bringing under one label the most uplifting new music being generated in our times. Every album that bears the ACR label will show some evidence of the Holy Spirit at work through words and music. Over time, we hope to have at least one artist in every state of the union and in every major American genre of music.
ACR can offer artists in all phases of development a range of support. For new artists, we can sponsor and manage recording projects from start to finish, paying for studio time and for background singers and instrumentalists as needed. Established artists who have already created radio-ready tracks may find a good home in ACR as well.
Depending on the how much time, talent, and money ACR invests in the production of the sound files and manufacturing of the CDs, ACR may own the master files, or we may permit the artist to own the master files.
In all cases, songwriters maintain full ownership of their songs.
Featured musicians receive payment in the form of physical CDs for their live acts. They also get a share in any profits from the sales of their CDs, tracks, or from any royalties accruing from the sale of rights to the recordings for other uses such as television or film. In some cases, artists keep all revenues.
The label operates as a unit within Alexis Music Studio, LLC, a Virginia LLC. Ownership will disperse to founders and "Archangel" investors as the label grows, according to a plan to be developed with the advice of an expert Advisory Board now being developed.
The founders are believing Christians who feel a deep kinship with all who share a faith in the God of Abraham. They respect freedom of worship and freedom of thought, welcoming co-artists of all varieties and shades of belief and searching. Yet it is the Holy Spirit Who shall guide this endeavor. All songs will reflect the founders’ belief in a loving God.
Additionally, the owner of the label is an ardent patriot with a firm commitment to honoring and supporting soldiers and veterans. Please visit the links on this site to see how you can support American and Allied troops.
Sing Aloud Unto God Our Strength! (From Psalm 81)
About Us
We are a small group of Christian recording artists banding together for mutual support. To get a feeling for who we are, please listen to our music!
Scriptural Basis for the Label
Scriptural Basis for this Label
“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” (Psalm 100)
Joy in the Lord will infuse all of the music this label creates, in every mood and genre.
“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.”
(Matthew 15:16)
This label will help musical and visual artists show their light to others.
“The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more. So also, the one with the two talents gained two more.” (Matthew 25: 16 - 17, in the Parable of the Talents)
We will strive to enable investing stewards to gain a good return on their investment.
“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” (Psalm 100)
Joy in the Lord will infuse all of the music this label creates, in every mood and genre.
“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.”
(Matthew 15:16)
This label will help musical and visual artists show their light to others.
“The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more. So also, the one with the two talents gained two more.” (Matthew 25: 16 - 17, in the Parable of the Talents)
We will strive to enable investing stewards to gain a good return on their investment.
More About the Company and Our Artists
Company Description
American Classic Recordings (ACR) is an independent, artist-operated record label with firm plans to produce professional-quality recordings in all major American genres through nine sub-labels.
• Classica (for Opera, Chamber, and Symphonic Music)
• Heartland (for Country, Folk, and Acoustic Guitar)
• Jazzz (for Blues, Jazz, and R&B)
• Las Americas (for songs in any genre sung in Spanish)
• Liberty (for songs with international themes)
• Love (for love ballads)
• Praise! (for Gospel)
• Rock (for Rock)
• Street (for Hip Hop and Rap)
All song lyrics will be consistent with Christ-centered values, while respecting the artist's need for personal and honest expression of the truth as the artist sees it.
The founders of the label are recording artists who wish to produce excellent music out of the heart of America. We seek to serve the needs of the following types of artists who lack the funds, contacts, or experience to make recordings on their own, including:
• Singers
• Instrumentalists
• Songwriters
• Church Musicians
• Charities wishing to Sponsor Musicians
The ACR label operates on a for-profit basis, not seeking charitable grants. However, it actively seeks to become the producer of choice for charities that do have grants and need a low-cost, Christian-based company seeking to do the Lord’s will through musical service. ACR senior advisor Larry Clouse is the founder of jsftr4me (jsftr4me.com), a full-service recording studio dedicated to helping artists and churches produce music for praise and worship affordably or at no charge.
All tracks are produced in electronic form (mp3), so the label can sell them through websites. In addition, the label produces singles and albums in physical form (wav file on manufactured CD) so artists can sell them at their live events, and the ACR label can sell them through CDbaby.com and SuperD (http://www.sdcd.com/). ACR produces both full albums and singles or mini-albums (up to four songs).
ACR can sponsor and manage recording projects from start to finish, paying for studio time and for background singers and instrumentalists as needed. Alternatively, ACR can take ownership of artist's master tracks in return for an advance payment against a royalty stream based directly on revenues. Agreements with artists may be exclusive or nonexclusive, depending on the needs of the artist and the company.
Featured musicians recorded by ACR receive payment in the form of physical CDs for their live acts. They also get a share in any profits from the sales of their CDs, tracks, or from any royalties accruing from the sale of rights to the recordings for other uses such as television or film. A similar arrangement is possible for musicians who provide their own master tracks, but in that case, the payments are based directly on revenues (not merely profits).
ACR is a unit within Alexis & Co. Music Studio, LLC, owned by Alexandra Lajoux of Fairfax, VA. Intellectual property owned by the company includes the rights to copyrighted songs, recordings, and related sheet music. Assets are protected with the help of a leading entertainment law firm, Fredrikson & Byron, Minneapolis, Minnesota, which has worked with the artist Prince, and which helped to produce the movie "Prairie Home Companion," starring Meryl Streep. All intellectual property is protected by copyright and registered with Broadcast Music International (BMI). If artists wish to retain full copyright on their songs and/or recordings, then terms can be negotiated.
Many performing artists and music lovers have expressed interest in adding their talent to the enterprise as advisors, composers, featured artists, or songwriters. Here is a list of some of our friends, both longstanding and new, including many who have already signed in some formal capacity (+).
* = has already released recording
+ = currently on ACR(recording released under ACR label)
Rob Baker, Entrepreneur from Texas (to serve on the Advisory Board)
"Billy the Kid" Elson, rock singer New York
David Bouknight, Gospel singer, Virginia
Max Bunyan, country/jazz singer-songwriter, Kansas
Ricky Byrum, rock singer-songwriter, North Carolina*+
Larry Clouse, senior advisor; musician and studio owner, Virginia
Ken Davies, award-winning composer, Mississippi (to serve on the Advisory Board)
Noreen "Tootie" Freeman, vocalist and songwriter, Maryland*+
William Hobbs, singer-songwriter, Virginia
Brian Hoey, praise rapper, Missouri
Jonathan Hopkins, spoken Word artist and guitarist, Maryland
Luanne Hunt, singer-songwriter and inspirational speaker, California*+
Darrold Hunt, fom Washington D.C., Conductor and Founder, Urban Philharmonic Society (to serve on the Advisory Board)
Grace, Truth, and Deliverance Band, New York
Freddie Johnson, country Christian singer-songwriter, Florida*+
Jude (Kevin Adamson), blues singer-songwriter, Georgia
Dr. Alexandra Lajoux, founder; singer-songwriter, Virginia*+
Dr. Laura Mann, International Concert Artist, residing in Virginia (to advise the Classica label*)
TEARBOOK Band, Pennsylvania*+
Terence McClerkin, promoter, Ohio
Kendra Miller, vocalist and arts manager, Maryland (for Advisory Board)
Jeff Moxcey, contemporary country songwriter, Maine
Sharon Nesbitt, Gospel singer-songwriter, Georgia
Johnny Owens, country singer and guitarist, Florida*+
John Perry, jazz singer, Florida*+
Wesley Robinson, singer and promoter, Virginia*+
Antony Luner Rose, American-born songwriter living in Paris
Richard Schletty, pastoral musician (Roman Catholic cantor) and multifaceted songwriter/producer based in Minnesota
Jeff Severson, recording guitarist and producer, Virginia*
Jarvis Smith, keyboard artist, engineer, and producer, Virginia*+
Wayne Snipes, Country Gospel singer, South Carolina
Sherman Tate, praise rapper, film-maker, producer, Alabama*
Doris Thomas, singer, choir president, Virginia
Eric Townsend, vocalist and performer, Virginia*
Joe Warfield, singer, composer, arranger, Virginia
Charisma Wooten, minister, producer, singer, Maryland
The Young Ones, brothers from North Carolina(Blizard and Bishop)*+
Andrew Wartts and The Gospel Story Tellers, singer-songwriters, Missouri*
AND MANY MORE!
Soon more asterisks and stars will appear as more artists release their recordings with us, Lord willing!
Of all the wonderful people listed above, we have only actually released a few albums, but have sincere plans to keep going. Let's all pray for each other.
At this time, we cannot invite new associates. First we must develop the artists we have already welcomed.
American Classic Recordings (ACR) is an independent, artist-operated record label with firm plans to produce professional-quality recordings in all major American genres through nine sub-labels.
• Classica (for Opera, Chamber, and Symphonic Music)
• Heartland (for Country, Folk, and Acoustic Guitar)
• Jazzz (for Blues, Jazz, and R&B)
• Las Americas (for songs in any genre sung in Spanish)
• Liberty (for songs with international themes)
• Love (for love ballads)
• Praise! (for Gospel)
• Rock (for Rock)
• Street (for Hip Hop and Rap)
All song lyrics will be consistent with Christ-centered values, while respecting the artist's need for personal and honest expression of the truth as the artist sees it.
The founders of the label are recording artists who wish to produce excellent music out of the heart of America. We seek to serve the needs of the following types of artists who lack the funds, contacts, or experience to make recordings on their own, including:
• Singers
• Instrumentalists
• Songwriters
• Church Musicians
• Charities wishing to Sponsor Musicians
The ACR label operates on a for-profit basis, not seeking charitable grants. However, it actively seeks to become the producer of choice for charities that do have grants and need a low-cost, Christian-based company seeking to do the Lord’s will through musical service. ACR senior advisor Larry Clouse is the founder of jsftr4me (jsftr4me.com), a full-service recording studio dedicated to helping artists and churches produce music for praise and worship affordably or at no charge.
All tracks are produced in electronic form (mp3), so the label can sell them through websites. In addition, the label produces singles and albums in physical form (wav file on manufactured CD) so artists can sell them at their live events, and the ACR label can sell them through CDbaby.com and SuperD (http://www.sdcd.com/). ACR produces both full albums and singles or mini-albums (up to four songs).
ACR can sponsor and manage recording projects from start to finish, paying for studio time and for background singers and instrumentalists as needed. Alternatively, ACR can take ownership of artist's master tracks in return for an advance payment against a royalty stream based directly on revenues. Agreements with artists may be exclusive or nonexclusive, depending on the needs of the artist and the company.
Featured musicians recorded by ACR receive payment in the form of physical CDs for their live acts. They also get a share in any profits from the sales of their CDs, tracks, or from any royalties accruing from the sale of rights to the recordings for other uses such as television or film. A similar arrangement is possible for musicians who provide their own master tracks, but in that case, the payments are based directly on revenues (not merely profits).
ACR is a unit within Alexis & Co. Music Studio, LLC, owned by Alexandra Lajoux of Fairfax, VA. Intellectual property owned by the company includes the rights to copyrighted songs, recordings, and related sheet music. Assets are protected with the help of a leading entertainment law firm, Fredrikson & Byron, Minneapolis, Minnesota, which has worked with the artist Prince, and which helped to produce the movie "Prairie Home Companion," starring Meryl Streep. All intellectual property is protected by copyright and registered with Broadcast Music International (BMI). If artists wish to retain full copyright on their songs and/or recordings, then terms can be negotiated.
Many performing artists and music lovers have expressed interest in adding their talent to the enterprise as advisors, composers, featured artists, or songwriters. Here is a list of some of our friends, both longstanding and new, including many who have already signed in some formal capacity (+).
* = has already released recording
+ = currently on ACR(recording released under ACR label)
Rob Baker, Entrepreneur from Texas (to serve on the Advisory Board)
"Billy the Kid" Elson, rock singer New York
David Bouknight, Gospel singer, Virginia
Max Bunyan, country/jazz singer-songwriter, Kansas
Ricky Byrum, rock singer-songwriter, North Carolina*+
Larry Clouse, senior advisor; musician and studio owner, Virginia
Ken Davies, award-winning composer, Mississippi (to serve on the Advisory Board)
Noreen "Tootie" Freeman, vocalist and songwriter, Maryland*+
William Hobbs, singer-songwriter, Virginia
Brian Hoey, praise rapper, Missouri
Jonathan Hopkins, spoken Word artist and guitarist, Maryland
Luanne Hunt, singer-songwriter and inspirational speaker, California*+
Darrold Hunt, fom Washington D.C., Conductor and Founder, Urban Philharmonic Society (to serve on the Advisory Board)
Grace, Truth, and Deliverance Band, New York
Freddie Johnson, country Christian singer-songwriter, Florida*+
Jude (Kevin Adamson), blues singer-songwriter, Georgia
Dr. Alexandra Lajoux, founder; singer-songwriter, Virginia*+
Dr. Laura Mann, International Concert Artist, residing in Virginia (to advise the Classica label*)
TEARBOOK Band, Pennsylvania*+
Terence McClerkin, promoter, Ohio
Kendra Miller, vocalist and arts manager, Maryland (for Advisory Board)
Jeff Moxcey, contemporary country songwriter, Maine
Sharon Nesbitt, Gospel singer-songwriter, Georgia
Johnny Owens, country singer and guitarist, Florida*+
John Perry, jazz singer, Florida*+
Wesley Robinson, singer and promoter, Virginia*+
Antony Luner Rose, American-born songwriter living in Paris
Richard Schletty, pastoral musician (Roman Catholic cantor) and multifaceted songwriter/producer based in Minnesota
Jeff Severson, recording guitarist and producer, Virginia*
Jarvis Smith, keyboard artist, engineer, and producer, Virginia*+
Wayne Snipes, Country Gospel singer, South Carolina
Sherman Tate, praise rapper, film-maker, producer, Alabama*
Doris Thomas, singer, choir president, Virginia
Eric Townsend, vocalist and performer, Virginia*
Joe Warfield, singer, composer, arranger, Virginia
Charisma Wooten, minister, producer, singer, Maryland
The Young Ones, brothers from North Carolina(Blizard and Bishop)*+
Andrew Wartts and The Gospel Story Tellers, singer-songwriters, Missouri*
AND MANY MORE!
Soon more asterisks and stars will appear as more artists release their recordings with us, Lord willing!
Of all the wonderful people listed above, we have only actually released a few albums, but have sincere plans to keep going. Let's all pray for each other.
At this time, we cannot invite new associates. First we must develop the artists we have already welcomed.
Christian Rock Band TEARBOOK Joins ACR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FEBRUARY 8, 2008
Tearbook, a Christian rock band from Williamsport Pennsylvania, signed today with American Classic Recordings of Fairfax, Virginia. Tearbook is 5 teen guys on fire for the Lord. In 2007, Tearbook played in about 30 live concerts, including Project 86, Falling Up, & Phil Joel at Fusion Fest in Selinsgrove Pa.
Band Members
Trevor Pool Lead vocals acoustic guitar
Taylor Pool Bass Guitar
Brandon Vartenisian Rhythm guitar vocals
Luke Brady Drums vocals
Dale Upright lead guitar
"I challenge anyone to listen to this band and come away unchanged," said Alexandra Lajoux, ACR Founder. "We give God the glory for bringing them to the label. He has a plan and we are happy to help it unfold!"
Tearbook can be heard on their web site myspace.com/tearbook, and you can see a music video that they did a year ago, before adding their 5th band member by going to youtube or Godtube and doing a search for Tearbook; it will come right up.
To book the band, contact Kevin Pool, Tearbook Band Manager,
570-601-6737
kevinpoolpa@aol.com
Tearbook, a Christian rock band from Williamsport Pennsylvania, signed today with American Classic Recordings of Fairfax, Virginia. Tearbook is 5 teen guys on fire for the Lord. In 2007, Tearbook played in about 30 live concerts, including Project 86, Falling Up, & Phil Joel at Fusion Fest in Selinsgrove Pa.
Band Members
Trevor Pool Lead vocals acoustic guitar
Taylor Pool Bass Guitar
Brandon Vartenisian Rhythm guitar vocals
Luke Brady Drums vocals
Dale Upright lead guitar
"I challenge anyone to listen to this band and come away unchanged," said Alexandra Lajoux, ACR Founder. "We give God the glory for bringing them to the label. He has a plan and we are happy to help it unfold!"
Tearbook can be heard on their web site myspace.com/tearbook, and you can see a music video that they did a year ago, before adding their 5th band member by going to youtube or Godtube and doing a search for Tearbook; it will come right up.
To book the band, contact Kevin Pool, Tearbook Band Manager,
570-601-6737
kevinpoolpa@aol.com
Luanne Hunt Joins American Classic Recordings with "Breaking Through"
For Immediate Release
Contact:American Classic Recordings
11331 Edenderry Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-9323 or 202-255-7562
email: alexandra@alexismusicstudio.com
AMERICAN CLASSIC RECORDINGS
SINGER/SONGWRITER LUANNE HUNT TOPS INDIE.COM CHART
IN JANUARY 2008
Luanne Hunt, an acclaimed singer/songwriter in the Americana and Christian genres, has continued to wow fans since signing a recording contract with the Fairfax, VA-based record label American Classic Recordings, a unit of Alexis & Co. Music Studios, LLC.
The Southern California resident’s CD “Breaking Through” released on the label November 1. The project features eight original tunes, as well as covers of the 1772 hymn “There Is A Fountain Filled With Blood,” and the 1968 Simon and Garfunkle hit “Scarborough Fair.”
“Breaking Through” was produced by Eric Uglum, who has worked with Alison Krauss, Ron Block, Cherryholmes, Nickel Creek, Sara Watkins, Stuart Duncan and other bluegrass and Americana artists.
“Luanne Hunt has inspired thousands with the touching beauty of her voice and spirit. I am so happy that she is getting the recognition she deserves,” said Alexandra Lajoux, ACR founder.
Hunt began performing, writing music and building her fan base in the mid-1990’s. She sang everywhere from county fairs to coffee houses to churches. In the early 2000’s, Luanne ventured into the recording studio to produce “Lost In Your Love,” a CD of 10 self-penned Christian songs. The project garnered rave reviews from critics and fans.
“After listening to Luanne’s beautiful CD, all I can say is ‘Wow!” said recording artist Al Jarreau.
Riding on the success of “Lost In Your Love,” Hunt released four more independent CDs: “I’m So Happy,” “Moving God, Moving Mountains!” “Chapters and Verse,” and “He Was There.” Various singles from all of the projects have received airplay on radio stations in the United States and Canada. Additionally, “I’m So Happy!” has become a fan favorite on the Internet with nearly 2,000 downloads.
Hunt recently produced her first music video, “The Miracle In You,” a track on “Breaking Through.” The video is featured on www.youtube.com, www.ourstage.com and www.myspace.com. American Classic Recordings (ACR) is an independent record label producing sound recordings in all major American genres through nine sub-labels.
Contact:American Classic Recordings
11331 Edenderry Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-9323 or 202-255-7562
email: alexandra@alexismusicstudio.com
AMERICAN CLASSIC RECORDINGS
SINGER/SONGWRITER LUANNE HUNT TOPS INDIE.COM CHART
IN JANUARY 2008
Luanne Hunt, an acclaimed singer/songwriter in the Americana and Christian genres, has continued to wow fans since signing a recording contract with the Fairfax, VA-based record label American Classic Recordings, a unit of Alexis & Co. Music Studios, LLC.
The Southern California resident’s CD “Breaking Through” released on the label November 1. The project features eight original tunes, as well as covers of the 1772 hymn “There Is A Fountain Filled With Blood,” and the 1968 Simon and Garfunkle hit “Scarborough Fair.”
“Breaking Through” was produced by Eric Uglum, who has worked with Alison Krauss, Ron Block, Cherryholmes, Nickel Creek, Sara Watkins, Stuart Duncan and other bluegrass and Americana artists.
“Luanne Hunt has inspired thousands with the touching beauty of her voice and spirit. I am so happy that she is getting the recognition she deserves,” said Alexandra Lajoux, ACR founder.
Hunt began performing, writing music and building her fan base in the mid-1990’s. She sang everywhere from county fairs to coffee houses to churches. In the early 2000’s, Luanne ventured into the recording studio to produce “Lost In Your Love,” a CD of 10 self-penned Christian songs. The project garnered rave reviews from critics and fans.
“After listening to Luanne’s beautiful CD, all I can say is ‘Wow!” said recording artist Al Jarreau.
Riding on the success of “Lost In Your Love,” Hunt released four more independent CDs: “I’m So Happy,” “Moving God, Moving Mountains!” “Chapters and Verse,” and “He Was There.” Various singles from all of the projects have received airplay on radio stations in the United States and Canada. Additionally, “I’m So Happy!” has become a fan favorite on the Internet with nearly 2,000 downloads.
Hunt recently produced her first music video, “The Miracle In You,” a track on “Breaking Through.” The video is featured on www.youtube.com, www.ourstage.com and www.myspace.com. American Classic Recordings (ACR) is an independent record label producing sound recordings in all major American genres through nine sub-labels.
Rappin' with God!
Rappin' with God, featuring The Young Ones, is here at last!
These two talented brothers joined ACR in 2007, and their single album rocketed out the first week of January 2008. (We were aiming for New Year's Eve, but had to ring in the New Year with hope and faith instead of an album!).
Rappin' for God, featuring Blizard and Bishop, debuts Jarvis Smith as a producer for AmericanClassicRecordings.com
And now let's here from Cheyenne Poole, manager for the artists since their earliest days :)
“Rappin' for God is a debut album for Blizard and Bishop, but they have been rapping since they were little boys. They used to watch the other rappers on TV, and they decided that they wanted to make a career out of rapping, with God in their hearts, so they could give young people some positive role models. They recorded these tracks with Andy Pow.
Bishop, who is 18, graduated from Pine Forest High School in June 2006. He always encourages Blizard to do well in school, and they practice their music every day. Blizard, who is 14, goes to Springlake Middle School, where he has been getting all As and Bs. They are excited to be signed by American Classic Recordings.”
Cheyenne Poole
Cheyenne’s Music Management
Spring Lake, North Carolina
These two talented brothers joined ACR in 2007, and their single album rocketed out the first week of January 2008. (We were aiming for New Year's Eve, but had to ring in the New Year with hope and faith instead of an album!).
Rappin' for God, featuring Blizard and Bishop, debuts Jarvis Smith as a producer for AmericanClassicRecordings.com
And now let's here from Cheyenne Poole, manager for the artists since their earliest days :)
“Rappin' for God is a debut album for Blizard and Bishop, but they have been rapping since they were little boys. They used to watch the other rappers on TV, and they decided that they wanted to make a career out of rapping, with God in their hearts, so they could give young people some positive role models. They recorded these tracks with Andy Pow.
Bishop, who is 18, graduated from Pine Forest High School in June 2006. He always encourages Blizard to do well in school, and they practice their music every day. Blizard, who is 14, goes to Springlake Middle School, where he has been getting all As and Bs. They are excited to be signed by American Classic Recordings.”
Cheyenne Poole
Cheyenne’s Music Management
Spring Lake, North Carolina
Ricky Byrum Joins American Classics
Ricky Byrum--singer, songwriter, performer, and producer based in Virginia--has joined American Classic Recordings. His new album Time to Rise carries the ACR logo.
Ricky is grateful for the prayers that helped him through his health issue. He is performing again, and recently glorified God at a Virginia Beach show in March 2008 called Local, Global, Eternal. For Ricky's bio, see Album Notes at the end of the website.
Ricky is grateful for the prayers that helped him through his health issue. He is performing again, and recently glorified God at a Virginia Beach show in March 2008 called Local, Global, Eternal. For Ricky's bio, see Album Notes at the end of the website.
Photo of June 2, 2007 - All Photos by Rick Steele
Joy ruled when the gifted choirs of Hunter Memorial A.M.E. Church and First A.M.E. Church joined together at Cue Studios under the direction of John Tillery (recording artist with Danbla Records), Joe Warfield (songwriter with BMI), and Doris Thomas (President of the First A.M.E., Alexandria, choir). What fun it was to sing praises to the Lord! Click on the picture to feel the Spirit! PS: Photographer Rick Steele is a world-class guitarist and singer, and has served alongside U.S. troops in Iraq as a dedicated military photographer.
There Could Be No Greater Honor Than This Testimony of a Soldier Devoted to Our Freedom
Thank you, Mrs. Lajoux for your thoughts and gratitude that you have expressed in your wonderful song of thanks and dedication to all of my brothers in arms in the field and back in garrison waiting to be deployed back. I am an Army Infantry soldier and have been in the service since 1979 when I joined to get our people back from Iran but we were not allowed to then. I got out of the Army in 01 and woke up
one morning in September and turn on the tube and the next day gave back my retirement to reenlist to fight this scourge of humanity and even though there has been many close calls and many friends lost since and with the knowledge that I may pay the ultimate price myself, the values that you have said so well in your song will keep me driving on. It takes a lot to make these jaded old eyes to tear up, God knows they have seen many bad and painfull things over the years but your song
made me do just that. I hold a deep respect and love for those like you in our great nation and will continue to serve her until we are all safe and free of the threat of terror and those who would surely destroy our way of life. Let me leave with this line that I learned from my first Ranger DI who served in Korea and Vietnam and maybe you can understand more than you already do as to why I fight and
serve.
"Men and Woman sleep more soundly in their beds at night because hard men are willing to do violence on their behalf."
That is a statement made by Sir Winston Churchill back in WWII. I am proud to be one of those men on your behalf and on all of America's behalf. Thank you once again for your faith and gratitude for our service I think I am safe to say it for all of us in this historic struggle.
Your servant,
Sgt. Russell E. Massey
Co. B, 3/7 Infantry, 3rd ID
Fort Stewart, Ga.
one morning in September and turn on the tube and the next day gave back my retirement to reenlist to fight this scourge of humanity and even though there has been many close calls and many friends lost since and with the knowledge that I may pay the ultimate price myself, the values that you have said so well in your song will keep me driving on. It takes a lot to make these jaded old eyes to tear up, God knows they have seen many bad and painfull things over the years but your song
made me do just that. I hold a deep respect and love for those like you in our great nation and will continue to serve her until we are all safe and free of the threat of terror and those who would surely destroy our way of life. Let me leave with this line that I learned from my first Ranger DI who served in Korea and Vietnam and maybe you can understand more than you already do as to why I fight and
serve.
"Men and Woman sleep more soundly in their beds at night because hard men are willing to do violence on their behalf."
That is a statement made by Sir Winston Churchill back in WWII. I am proud to be one of those men on your behalf and on all of America's behalf. Thank you once again for your faith and gratitude for our service I think I am safe to say it for all of us in this historic struggle.
Your servant,
Sgt. Russell E. Massey
Co. B, 3/7 Infantry, 3rd ID
Fort Stewart, Ga.
Sheet Music for ACR Tunes Now Available
Would you like to play one of our songs at your next concert?
Sheet music is now available for the following songs:
FROM MY COUNTRY
Borderline
Heart on My Sleeve
My Man
Just Not Now
One Shoe
Every Mountaintop
Daddys Crown
Mi Teddy
Who's Walkin' Who?
Magdalena - Coming Back
Good Guys
Get Up and Go
We Thank You
FROM DAY OF PRAISE
Holy Spirit
If you have heard another song and would like sheet music for it, please let us know and we will prepare it.
The sheet music is in lead sheet style, showing the notes to play for the melody, as well as the chords (letter name of chord) to play for piano or guitar.
Upon request, we can email you a PDF (for $1.95 per song) or mail you the sheet music (for $2.95 per song). In return, we would ask that you mail us a check for the indicated amount, after you recieve the music.
You may make as many copies as you like.
Sincerely,
Alexandra Lajoux
President
American Classic Recordings
Fairfax VA
Sheet music is now available for the following songs:
FROM MY COUNTRY
Borderline
Heart on My Sleeve
My Man
Just Not Now
One Shoe
Every Mountaintop
Daddys Crown
Mi Teddy
Who's Walkin' Who?
Magdalena - Coming Back
Good Guys
Get Up and Go
We Thank You
FROM DAY OF PRAISE
Holy Spirit
If you have heard another song and would like sheet music for it, please let us know and we will prepare it.
The sheet music is in lead sheet style, showing the notes to play for the melody, as well as the chords (letter name of chord) to play for piano or guitar.
Upon request, we can email you a PDF (for $1.95 per song) or mail you the sheet music (for $2.95 per song). In return, we would ask that you mail us a check for the indicated amount, after you recieve the music.
You may make as many copies as you like.
Sincerely,
Alexandra Lajoux
President
American Classic Recordings
Fairfax VA
Album Notes
AMERICA WELCOMES YOU
We are an all-American label, featuring American artists who love this country, but if you are visiting from another land, please know that your heart full of hope is welcome here. Our song LIBERTY welcomes you.
And now, here is some information about ...MY COUNTRY,
The Debut Album of American Classic Recordings-- a unique blend of country, folk, gospel, and bluegrass conveying the joys and sorrows behind the scenes of ordinary life in America. The album's title song, "We Thank You," gives a venue for a community chorus to express heartfelt appreciation for the men and women serving in our nation's armed forces. "Good Guys" reinforces the theme of valor in service to God and country.
Song themes include trials of codependency ("Borderline"), heartbreak and healing ("Heart on My Sleeve," "Just Not Now"), joys of adoption ("Mi Teddy"), anguish of temptation ("My Man"), despair of addiction and hope of recovery ("One Shoe," "Every Mountaintop"), a changing neighborhood seen in walks with a faithful dog ("Who's Walkin' Who"), zeal for worship and service ("Get Up and Go"), and the nature of true love--seen in Jesus's love for Mary Magdalene: "Magdalena: Coming Back" is the Christian answer to the Da Vinci code! The secret bonus rockabilly track about scorned love could make you laugh or cry, depending.
Guest artists on the MY COUNTRY album with Alexandra (whose friends call her variously Alexis, Alexandria, and Alex) include guitarists Andrew Acosta, Steve Magnusen, and Jeff Severson; virtuoso string player and pianist Christopher Sexton (appearing courtesy of Pinecastle Records); trumpet player Curt Christensen (a trumpeter with a premier military band in Washington, D.C.); and bass player Mark Lysher. In 2007, Chris was named Fiddle Player of the Year by the National Society For The Preservation Of Bluegrass Music In America. Congratulations, Chris! Joining Alexandra as vocalists are gospel singer Doc McKenzie of Doc McKenzie and the Hi-Lites, mountain music impresario Andrew Acosta, and rocker Eric Townsend. Co-produced by Alexandra Lajoux and Jeff Severson, with special contributions from Andrew Acosta, Stu Gardner, and Darryl Henley. For a list of choral singers, please see the credits to "We Thank You," posted on this site. Recording Engineer for this project was Mike Andreski, Cue Recording Studios, Falls Church, Virginia, managed by Dusty Rose.
With the exception of her French song, Je Retaime, Alexandra's songs are mostly American in spirit; yet they have attracted visits from neighbors to the north - Canada - and south - Mexico,Venezuela, Brazil, Peru and Argentina--and other continents--Africa (Benin, Cameroon, Egypt, Uganda),and the Middle East (Israel, Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates), Europe (Croatia, the Czech Republic, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, the Scandanavian countries--Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden), and the United Kingdom), greater Asia (China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Phillipines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam, plus India and Pakistan), as well as Russia, Kazakhstan, the Ukraine, and "down under" --Australia and New Zealand....and many more. (A current list is on her singer's website on soundclick.com.) Fluent in French, German, and Spanish, with rudimentary knowledge of Italian, Japanese, and ancient Latin, she has traveled to and lived in some of these places, but there's no place like home...USA!
TIME TO RISE (a note from Ricky Byrum)
Due to the passing of Jeff Preziotti -Apostolos drummer and my long time FRIEND and former Gangway band mate on Jan 8th 2008, my next cd will be entitled ( Time To Rise ). Dedicated to the nicest dude I ever met! Miss ya bro. Save me a spot in the band... It will be released on my new label ( American Classic Recordings ). Hear the new single here on Myspace and look for the "Time To Rise" cd at : http://cdbaby.com/cd/rickybyrum .This is Ricky Byrum. Thanks for checking me out. I am a singer; guitarist and bassist. I have been fortunate enough to write and record my music with bands and as a solo artist. I have been writing an array of music for some time now. I like all kinds of music and enjoy working w/ most styles. I ’ve been in many great bands. See my bio @ www.rickybyrum.com. Metal; rock, funk, R&B, acoustical etc. I’ve posted a song on 01/26/07 " Only You" which was mixed with my friend Blake. He’s the man! Thanks also to my friend Rob Blankenship who helped get the basic tracks and drums. Thanks guys! Looking forward to the next ones. I’ve also posted " It won’t be long now" edited version, and " Briana" which have passed the first screening for TV and Film work. They were from my cd " Clarity". Take a look and listen and give me a shout back. The plan is to see the music continue on internet radio as well as college and other stations. We have been played around the world so let’s keep the music moving forward. Peace to you and yours, Ricky Byrum www.rickybyrum.com A portion of all proceeds will go to the Children’s hospitals and the Red Cross and other charities. It’s what I do to give a little something back. Thanks for making a difference any way you can. I’d like to create a way of donations which would include other means such as can goods; clothing, time etc. Many people still need prayer and support in each community we live. Once again thanks, especially for the kids; the sick, and GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY !!!!!!!
COMING SOON
Descriptions of other albums on American Classic Recordings
We are an all-American label, featuring American artists who love this country, but if you are visiting from another land, please know that your heart full of hope is welcome here. Our song LIBERTY welcomes you.
And now, here is some information about ...MY COUNTRY,
The Debut Album of American Classic Recordings-- a unique blend of country, folk, gospel, and bluegrass conveying the joys and sorrows behind the scenes of ordinary life in America. The album's title song, "We Thank You," gives a venue for a community chorus to express heartfelt appreciation for the men and women serving in our nation's armed forces. "Good Guys" reinforces the theme of valor in service to God and country.
Song themes include trials of codependency ("Borderline"), heartbreak and healing ("Heart on My Sleeve," "Just Not Now"), joys of adoption ("Mi Teddy"), anguish of temptation ("My Man"), despair of addiction and hope of recovery ("One Shoe," "Every Mountaintop"), a changing neighborhood seen in walks with a faithful dog ("Who's Walkin' Who"), zeal for worship and service ("Get Up and Go"), and the nature of true love--seen in Jesus's love for Mary Magdalene: "Magdalena: Coming Back" is the Christian answer to the Da Vinci code! The secret bonus rockabilly track about scorned love could make you laugh or cry, depending.
Guest artists on the MY COUNTRY album with Alexandra (whose friends call her variously Alexis, Alexandria, and Alex) include guitarists Andrew Acosta, Steve Magnusen, and Jeff Severson; virtuoso string player and pianist Christopher Sexton (appearing courtesy of Pinecastle Records); trumpet player Curt Christensen (a trumpeter with a premier military band in Washington, D.C.); and bass player Mark Lysher. In 2007, Chris was named Fiddle Player of the Year by the National Society For The Preservation Of Bluegrass Music In America. Congratulations, Chris! Joining Alexandra as vocalists are gospel singer Doc McKenzie of Doc McKenzie and the Hi-Lites, mountain music impresario Andrew Acosta, and rocker Eric Townsend. Co-produced by Alexandra Lajoux and Jeff Severson, with special contributions from Andrew Acosta, Stu Gardner, and Darryl Henley. For a list of choral singers, please see the credits to "We Thank You," posted on this site. Recording Engineer for this project was Mike Andreski, Cue Recording Studios, Falls Church, Virginia, managed by Dusty Rose.
With the exception of her French song, Je Retaime, Alexandra's songs are mostly American in spirit; yet they have attracted visits from neighbors to the north - Canada - and south - Mexico,Venezuela, Brazil, Peru and Argentina--and other continents--Africa (Benin, Cameroon, Egypt, Uganda),and the Middle East (Israel, Bahrain, Iran, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates), Europe (Croatia, the Czech Republic, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, the Scandanavian countries--Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden), and the United Kingdom), greater Asia (China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Phillipines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam, plus India and Pakistan), as well as Russia, Kazakhstan, the Ukraine, and "down under" --Australia and New Zealand....and many more. (A current list is on her singer's website on soundclick.com.) Fluent in French, German, and Spanish, with rudimentary knowledge of Italian, Japanese, and ancient Latin, she has traveled to and lived in some of these places, but there's no place like home...USA!
TIME TO RISE (a note from Ricky Byrum)
Due to the passing of Jeff Preziotti -Apostolos drummer and my long time FRIEND and former Gangway band mate on Jan 8th 2008, my next cd will be entitled ( Time To Rise ). Dedicated to the nicest dude I ever met! Miss ya bro. Save me a spot in the band... It will be released on my new label ( American Classic Recordings ). Hear the new single here on Myspace and look for the "Time To Rise" cd at : http://cdbaby.com/cd/rickybyrum .This is Ricky Byrum. Thanks for checking me out. I am a singer; guitarist and bassist. I have been fortunate enough to write and record my music with bands and as a solo artist. I have been writing an array of music for some time now. I like all kinds of music and enjoy working w/ most styles. I ’ve been in many great bands. See my bio @ www.rickybyrum.com. Metal; rock, funk, R&B, acoustical etc. I’ve posted a song on 01/26/07 " Only You" which was mixed with my friend Blake. He’s the man! Thanks also to my friend Rob Blankenship who helped get the basic tracks and drums. Thanks guys! Looking forward to the next ones. I’ve also posted " It won’t be long now" edited version, and " Briana" which have passed the first screening for TV and Film work. They were from my cd " Clarity". Take a look and listen and give me a shout back. The plan is to see the music continue on internet radio as well as college and other stations. We have been played around the world so let’s keep the music moving forward. Peace to you and yours, Ricky Byrum www.rickybyrum.com A portion of all proceeds will go to the Children’s hospitals and the Red Cross and other charities. It’s what I do to give a little something back. Thanks for making a difference any way you can. I’d like to create a way of donations which would include other means such as can goods; clothing, time etc. Many people still need prayer and support in each community we live. Once again thanks, especially for the kids; the sick, and GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY !!!!!!!
COMING SOON
Descriptions of other albums on American Classic Recordings
Praise Continues
American Classic Recordings has sponsored a continuation of the Day of Praise project, featuring many notable Gospel musicians local to the Washington, DC, area. Recent recording sessions have been hosted by Larry Clouse, a "living Mozart, and owner of the Skyline Music Studios in Falls Church, Virginia. It all started thanks to Wesley Robinson, a founding Artist of the label. He introduced ACR management (Alexandra Lajoux) to the First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) Choir of Alexandria Virginia, headed by Doris Thomas, visionary president; and directed by gifted composer,arranger, and singer Joe Warfield. These four joined the chorus along with other singers from FAME as well as Woodstream Church (MD), Ebenezer AME, Hunter Memorial Baptist (MD), to be led by the best Executive Producer: The Holy Spirit! The first two songs to be released on the album will be the ones directed by Brother Joe: What a Friend We Have in Jesus and He is Great. In addition to the four mentioned, other choral singers on the projectt include Missionary Charisma Wooten, Vanessa Hester, Connie Walker, Gayle McMahan, William Whitfield III, Violet Stith, Rose Lewis, Sheila Williams, Octovia Davis, Sheila Walter, Robert Maddox, Fexis Wilson, and Roxanne Anderson. Other songs to be featured in time will be the song Victory, co-written by Wesley Robinson and Jarvis Smith, as well as Every Mountaintop and Holy Spirit, written by Alexandra Lajoux (writer of He Is Great). ACR sends special thanks to Larry, who provided studio time and a warm welcome, and who has offered to mix and master the project; Keith Burrous of Cue Recording, the site of the original recording. Jarvis Smith, an accomplished Gospel and R&B musician, as well as noted Gospel recording artist John Tillery, also provided their professional services to this project. We thank you all, as each person made a valuable contribution! If anyone has any questions about this recording series, or wishes to participate in future ones, feel free to call American Classic Recordings at 202-255-7562. Be Blessed, ARL
Music Links
Christian Country
LUANNE HUNT - signed
http://luannehuntmusic.com/
JOHNNY OWENS - signed
ttp://www.johnnyowens.net/
FREDDIE JOHNSON - invited
www.freddiejohnsonsmusic.com
Christian Rock
TEARBOOK - signed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-DrZMXkkWE
RICKY BYRUM - signed
http://www.rickybyrum.com/RickyByrum/Home.html
Christian HipHop
BLIZARD AND BISHOP - signed
http://cdbaby.com/cd/blizardbishop
Gospel
DAY OF PRAISE – produced by ACR
http://cdbaby.com/cd/wradops
Jazz Standards
JOHN PERRY - signed
[cdbaby link coming soon.]
Variety - All of the Above
ALEXANDRA LAJOUX
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lajoux1
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lajoux2
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lajoux3
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lajoux4
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lajoux5
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=525166
MUCH MORE MUSIC TO COME!