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The Story of Cash Money Records (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Terri DoughertyFounded in New Orleans in the early 1990s, Cash Money Records faced an uphill battle as it struggled to gain respect. Brothers Bryan "Baby" Williams and Ronald "Slim" Williams started the label by recording New Orleans artists who were part of the local " bounce music" scene. The label's young rappers, including Juvenile, B.G., and Turk, worked hard to deliver hits, but inner turmoil almost derailed Cash Money's success. The breakout success of Lil Wayne, who became the label's biggest star and even served as its president for a time, helped Cash Money survive during a difficult decade. Today stars like Drake and Nicki Minaj are helping to make Cash Money Records a household name in the hip-hop world.
The Story of Death Row Records (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Trey WhiteFor a few years in the mid-1990s, a small music label called Death Row stood atop the hip-hop world. Death Row Records was instrumental in introducing a hard-core style of rap music known as "gangsta rap" to mainstream audiences. Albums like Dr. Dre's The Chronic, Snoop Doggy Dogg's Doggystyle, and Tupac Shakur's All Eyez on Me sold millions of copies and influenced a new generation of artists. The money rolled in for Death Row's founder, Marion "Suge" Knight. The good times could not last, however. Tupac was murdered, Suge Knight was sent to prison for various crimes, and the label's top stars moved on. The dramatic rise and fall of Death Row Records is chronicled in this book.
The Story of Def Jam (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Brian BaughanWhen it was founded in 1984, Def Jam was a tiny operation nestled in the college dorm room of Rick Rubin. He and promoter Russell Simmons quickly built a music empire around a talented crew of groundbreaking artists and an allegiance to the "real street music" that was about to bust out of New York City's hip-hop circles. Over the course of several decades, Def Jam has helped launched many of the best acts in rap and pop music, including LL Cool J, the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, Method Man, DMX, Ja Rule, Jay-Z, and Rihanna. Over 200 gold and over 70 platinum records bear the Def Jam label. Def Jam's 25th anniversary in 2009 was just another milestone in the story of a label that helped define the sound as well as the wider culture of hip-hop.
The Story of Interscope Records (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Diane BaileyHip-hop started on the streets of New York with African American youths in the 1970s. But with its strong beats and raw lyrics, it quickly spread across the country. It became the music of a generation of young Americans. But hip-hop is more than just music. It's a lifestyle. It's also big business. When Interscope Records was formed in 1990, the company's founders saw an opportunity. Young people loved the energy of hip-hop. Interscope gave rappers like Eminem and 50 Cent their start--and it paid off. Today, Interscope is a multimillion-dollar company that handles all kinds of music. There were setbacks on the way to success. But whether it was Lady Gaga or the Black Eyed Peas, Interscope always managed to find a star!
The Story of Mosley Music Group (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Emma KowalskiSince the mid-1990s, Tim Mosley--better known as Timbaland--has been one of the most in-demand and critically respected producers in the music industry. His credits include numerous hits in hip-hop, as well as dance, R&B, pop, and rock. But that isn't the only contribution Timbaland has made to the music scene. In 2006, he became the CEO of his own record label, Mosley Music Group. Open to all kinds of acts, the label is part of, and distributed by, Interscope Records. Mosley Music Group has released several star-studded albums. The label has given new creative outlets to experienced artists like Nelly Furtado and Chris Cornell, and helped launch the careers of artists like OneRepublic, Keri Hilson, D.O.E., and MC Hayes. This book profiles all of Mosley Music Group's past and present artists and their releases, as well as the fascinating story of Timbaland's long and influential career.
The Story of No Limit Records (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Jim WhitingPercy "Master P." Miller came out of one of the toughest slums in New Orleans to found No Limit Records in Richmond, California, on a shoestring budget in 1991. Master P sold his first releases out of the trunk of his car, but he always believed in himself. Thanks to his hard work, within a few years No Limit was one of the most successful hip-hop record labels in the country and Master P was a multi-millionaire. Master P couldn't maintain this level of success, however, and in 2003 the label went bankrupt. Master P began a new label and kept going. In recent years, he has attempted to change the focus of his music to make it more positive, and started Take a Stand Records for that purpose. Now calling himself P. Miller, the rapper/entrepreneur remains active in the music business and also works to help others.
The Story of Roc-A-Fella Records (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Emma KowalskiWhen Shawn Carter, an aspiring rapper with the stage name Jay-Z, couldn't get his career off the ground at a major record label, he didn't get discouraged. He and his partners Damon Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke created a hip-hop label of their own. They named the label Roc-A-Fella Records. Originally intended as a one-time project to release Jay-Z's full-length debut album, Reasonable Doubt, Roc-A-Fella Records expanded into a true hip-hop powerhouse. Roc-A-Fella Records has introduced listeners to the unique talents of artists like Kanye West, the Young Gunz, and the State Property crew. Other artists, such as Jadakiss and the O.D.B., have received another chance to kick-start their careers. This book describes the musical contributions of Jay-Z, Kanye West, and Roc-A-Fella's other past and present artists, as well as the record label's complex behind-the-scenes history.
The Story of So So Def Recordings (Hip-Hop Hitmakers)
by Rich MintzerDuring the early 1990s, successful music producer Jermaine Dupri started So So Def Records. The Atlanta-based label began at a time when Southern hip-hop music was just beginning to get a lot of attention. Dupri signed distribution deals with much-larger record companies like Columbia and Arista. This allowed him to focus on what he did best: finding talented unknown artists and producing hit music. Some of So So Def's biggest stars included Da Brat, Lil Bow Wow, and Jagged Edge. Today So So Def Records is completely independent, and Jermaine Dupri is working hard to introduce a new generation of hip-hop stars.
Prince: Singer-Songwriter, Musician, and Record Producer
by David RobsonIn a music industry where one-hit wonders come and go, Prince, son of a black father and a white mother, is a long-running exception. With his monster guitar work, suggestive songs, and a fashion sense that is all his own, this biracial achiever has spent over thirty years as a pop culture icon. His albums Purple Rain, Sign "O" the Times, and Musicology set new standards for pop music showmanship. His work in filmmaking and multimedia proved him to be one of the more progressive artists in the business, all the while earning him millions of dollars and legions of avid fans. Yet Prince's prodigious talents have sometimes fallen victim to his excesses and obsessions. Explicit lyrics and squabbles with record executives are but two of the more controversial chapters in a long and rich career. Through it all, Prince has forged an extraordinary musical legacy and brought fans of all races together to enjoy his unique combination of rock, funk, and R&B. This new biography offers an in-depth look at a living legend and explores his genius through interviews as well as his timeless music.
Beyonce: Singer-songwriter, Actress, and Record Producer
by Chuck BednarFrom the earliest moments of her childhood in Houston, Texas, it was clear that Beyoncé, of mixed African-American and Louisiana Creole descent, had a special gift when it came to performing in front of a crowd. At the age of seven, she dominated much older kids in a local talent show, and appeared on national television before she was even a teenager. She went on to become a part of the super group Destiny's Child and was one of the key reasons they eventually became one of the most popular female musical groups of all time. The road to success wasn't always easy, however, as Beyoncé managed to overcome many obstacles on the road to superstardom, and go on to find both success and happiness in her professional and private lives. Beyoncé is a multiple Grammy-award winning superstar, an incredibly talented and successful singer-songwriter, an accomplished actress, and a successful businesswoman. In short, Beyoncé is an extraordinary achiever.
Keeping Secrets (Disney's Hannah Montana #1)
by Beth BeechwoodHannah Montana might seem like a regular girl next door But she's got a big secret. When the lights go down. Miley is the pop star Hannah Montana! But keeping that secret--and balancing school and homework with her newfound fame and fortune--is harder than Miley ever thought it would be. And when her friend Oliver becomes totally obsessed with Hannah Montana, Miley doesn't know what to do. How can she possibly keep her super star identity hidden with Oliver constantly in her face in her limo, everywhere?!
Face-Off (Disney's Hannah Montana #2)
by Alice AlfonsiHannah Montana aka Miley Stewart, has been recruited as the face of Magic Glow skin cream--everyone's favorite zit zapper! But when she sneaks a peek at their huge new billboard the night before it's unveiled, she's horrified. It shows Miley with a zit the size of an extra-large pizza! She tries not to freak out, but her spotty face is up there for the whole city to see! Will Miley remember that it's what's inside that counts, or will she let her inner diva take control?
Super Sneak (Disney's Hannah Montana #3)
by Laurie McelroyWhen Miley is invited to a sneak preview of a local new movie, she's sure that her dad won't mind a bit. After all, she's famous. He can't say no, right? Wrong! It's exam time, and Miley's dad wants her to stay home and strictly study. But Miley just can't resist. She sneaks out of the house and off to the movies with Lilly and Oliver. Then, when her dad shows up at the same movie theater, Miley realizes that she's not the only one who has a secret. Mr. Stewart--who is single--is there on a date with a mystery woman! Who could she be, Miley wonders? And why would her dad hide from her? Maybe Hannah Montana can help Miley get to the bottom of things!
Nightmare on Hannah Street (Disney's Hannah Montana #7)
by Laurie McelroyPart 1: Miley Stewart loves being teen pop-star sensation Hannah Montana--but when her scheming, look-alike cousin Luann pays a visit, suddenly Miley isn't the only one who wants a taste of fame. At first Luann is on her best behavior, and might have gotten over the rough patch from their childhood. She even invites Luann to the coolest Halloween party in town. But when Luann hog-ties Miley in her secret Hannah Montana closet, Miley realizes she's made a big mistake! Can Miley's friends rescue her in time? Or will Luann crash the party of the year--dressed as Hannah Montana--and reveal her secret identity? Part 2: Mr. Stewart's mother comes to visit; Hannah has a command performance for the Queen, and Jackson has a volleyball tournament.
Seeing Green (Disney's Hannah Montana #8)
by M. C. KingEgomaniac! All the girls at Seaview think fellow student and TV actor and Jake Ryan is a hottie, but Miley thinks his ego is out of control. So when he asks her to a school dance, she says no. Then Miley appears as Hannah Montana on his TV series and realizes she might have misjudged him. Before she can admit a change of heart, Jake asks out her friend Lilly! After Miley's jealousy leads to a major fight with Lilly, she realizes she may have lost her best friend and her dream guy! Is it too late to get them back
Wildcat Spirit (High School Musical: Stories from East High #2)
by Catherine HapkaWho's got spirit? It's Spirit Week at East High, and everyone is psyched. There will be dress-up days, a pep rally, and finally, the the Crowning of the Spirit week King and Queen. But the best part of all is the Sadie Hawkins dance: the girls get to ask the boys! Troy is fending off invitations left and right,, and wondering why Gabriella hasn't asked him yet. He'll have to be patient, though; Gabriella has a lot on her mind. She overheard something her mom said on the phone, and is too devastated to even think about the dance. Could it be that they're moving again? Gabriella is so happy at East High. Would her mother really take her away from all her friends?
Poetry in Motion (High School Musical: Stories from East High #3)
by Alice AlfonsiEveryone at East High is freaking out. In one week, the students in Ms. Barrington's English class will have to recite an original poem in front of the whole school! Chad is usually happy to ham it up no matter who is watching, but the embarrassing memory of a past poetry performance is seared onto his brain--and he's not sure he'll be able to pull off this assignment. Troy enlists Gabriella to teach Chad and the other basketball players that there's more than one way to bust a rhyme. But will she be able to save them from schoolwide humiliation?
Crunch Time (High School Musical Stories From East High #4)
by N. B. GraceThe pressure is on! The students of East High are preparing for SATs, and Gabriella has the unfortunate honor of tutoring Sharpay--who shines much more brightly onstage than she does on her practice tests. Luckily, the school's upcoming Halloween Festival is taking everyone's mind off the SAT crunch. This year's theme is Future Fantasy, and the students will wear costumes that represent what they would like to be someday. Gabriella and Troy are both wondering what kind of future the other foresees, but they'll have to wait until the party to find out. Bookshare has all of the books in this series about the kids at East High. Check out: #1 BATTLE OF THE BANDS, #2 WILDCAT SPIRIT, #3 POETRY IN MOTION, #4 CRUNCH TIME, #5 BROADWAY DREAMS, #6 Heart to Heart, #7 Friends 4Ever, #8 Get Your Vote On, #9 Ringin' It In, and #10 Turn Up The Heat.
Broadway Dreams (High School Musical Stories From East High #5)
by N. B. GraceBIG APPLE, HERE WE COME!! Troy, Gabriella, Chad, Taylor, Sharpay, and Ryan are headed to New York City on a class trip! Everyone is eager to bask in the lights of Times Square and explore the bustling streets of Manhattan. Then some unexpected opportunities arise: Sharpay and Ryan put on their dancing shoes and try out for a real Broadway musical, and Gabriella and Taylor vie for scholarship money on a game show. But are any of them ready for the level of competition they'll face? Bookshare has the other books in this series. Look for: #1 BATTLE OF THE BANDS, #2 WILDCAT SPIRIT, #3 POETRY IN MOTION, #4 CRUNCH TIME, #6 Heart to Heart, #7 Friends 4Ever, #8 GET YOUR VOTE ON, #9 Ringin' It In, #10 Turn Up The Heat. And #11 In The Spotlight.
Heart to Heart (High School Musical: Stories from East High #6)
by Helen PerelmanFor five years in a row, the East High Wildcats have lost out to their rivals at West High in raising money for the United Heart Association's annual Valentine's Day fund-raiser, Heart to Heart. But this year, Sharpay is determined that East High will reign supreme! Each club gets to work figuring out what they can do to bring in the most cash. The Drama Club will sell flowers, and Taylor and Gabriella will organize a cupcake sale with the Scholastic Decathlon team. With Gabriella baking nonstop and Troy practicing for the upcoming basketball game against West High, can they find a moment to celebrate Valentine's Day? And will Sharpay's dreams of victory be fulfilled?
High School Musical 2: The Junior Novel
by N. B. GraceGood-bye, school and Hello, summer! But for Troy, Gabriella, Chad, and Taylor, this vacation is no day at the beach. That's because they're all working at a country club founded by Ryan and Sharpay's family! And with the club's annual talent show right around the corner, Sharpay's competitive instincts are sizzling. She dumps her brother Ryan as her singing partner and starts wooing Troy to join her onstage instead. Gabriella is less than thrilled that Troy has agreed to sing with Sharpay. How could he do that to her? She never sees him these days. He's too busy on the golf course, dining in style, playing basketball with a college team and all of it managed by Sharpay. Things are heating up on the lawns of high society. Will Troy and Gabriella realize that they're meant to be?
Face the Music (Disney's Hannah Montana #9)
by Beth BeechwoodMiley Stewart looks like a regular girl-next-door, but she's got a big secret. When the lights go down, Miley is the famous teen pop sensation Hannah Montana! Miley may be a celebrity when she's on stage, but she wants the rest of her life to be as normal as possible. The only people who know the truth about Miley's dual identity are her father, brother, and best friends Lilly and Oliver. But keeping that secret and balancing school with her new found fame and fortune is harder than Miley ever thought it would be.
On the Road (Disney's Hannah Montana #14)
by Kitty RichardsSeries Description: Miley Stewart looks like a regular girl-next-door, but when the lights go down, Miley is teen pop sensation Hannah Montana! Off stage, Miley wants her life to be as normal as possible, so only a few people know the truth about her dual identity. But keeping that secret is harder than Miley ever thought it would be. Hannah Montana #14: On the Road. Miley is totally disappointed! Her dad canceled Hannah Montana's European concert tour because she is flunking biology. But if she can ace her midterm, Hannah's tour is back on! Miley is determined to go to Europe, so she creates song and dance routines as study techniques for the test. Will Miley's preparations earn her an A, or will she be left singing the blues? Plus, when Miley's dad forbids her to travel alone for a Hannah Montana charity concert, she decides to take matters into her own hands-and goes anyway!
Rock the Waves (Disney's Hannah Montana)
by Suzanne Harper"The Surf Series" is coming to Malibu, and that means boards, boys, and summer concerts. For Hannah it also means a summer of drama and romance, in this all-new, original novel based on the top-rated Disney series "Hannah Montana".
Wildcats Forever
by Lara BergenThe High School Musical phenomenon leaps onto the big screen with the much-anticipated; theatrical release of High School Musical 3, which finds high school seniors Troy and Gabriella facing the prospect of being separated from one another as they head off to different colleges.