Press Releases
NEW YORK — Aug. 25, 2010 - Preschoolers get ready to party with Dora the Explorer,
Yo Gabba Gabba! and today's top music stars for the first annual Nickelodeon Mega
Music Fest, an hour-long prime-time concert special for the whole family, premiering
Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 6, from 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET/PT. The Nickelodeon Mega Music
Fest was shot live at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York and is hosted by
actor/comedian John Leguizamo along with Sherri Shepherd as Stage Manager. The
concert special features Justin Bieber, Dr. Phil, Colbie Caillat, Wyclef Jean, The
Roots, Dora the Explorer, Yo Gabba Gabba!, The Fresh Beat Band, The Laurie Berkner
Band and more.
The Nickelodeon Mega Music Fest presents the network's hottest preschool stars
singing a diverse mix of pop and family-friendly songs along with today's top
recording artists. The concert combines live-action performances and original
animation, plus comical vignettes. Some of the hit songs include "Walking on
Sunshine," "La Bamba," "Let's Get Loud," and preschool favorites. The premiere of
the Nickelodeon Mega Music Fest will simulcast on Nick Mobile on Monday, Sept. 6 and
the special will encore on Nickelodeon Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 10:00 a.m. ET/PT and on
Thursday, Sept. 9, at 1:00 p.m. ET/PT.
"The Nickelodeon Mega Music Fest is a great opportunity for families to get together
to sing, dance and enjoy this one-of-a-kind music spectacular," said Teri Weiss,
SVP, Nickelodeon Preschool. "The special showcases kids' favorite Nickelodeon
Preschool characters like Dora, Kai-lan, The Fresh Beat Band in a whole new way;
singing on stage with some of today's hottest music stars."
Nickelodeon's award-winning website, www.nickjr.com, will provide families with
musical activities and games to complement the premiere of the Nickelodeon Mega
Music Fest. Families will be able to upload their own music videos and the videos
with the most "likes" will air during the concert special. The site will also
feature the Mega Music Game where they can play music with their favorite
Nickelodeon preschool characters and learn music terminology. In addition, families
can view behind-the-scenes footage and music videos.
The Nickelodeon Mega Music Fest is produced by Nickelodeon Productions in
association with Bob Bain Productions. The special was directed by Michael Dempsey
and produced by Paul Flattery. Bob Bain and Teri Weiss are executive producers.
Since forming Bob Bain Productions, Inc. in 1996, Bob Bain has become one of the
most prolific music/event/variety/award producers in Hollywood. Shows produced
under his banner include Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards, Teen Choice Awards,
Critic's Choice Awards, Billboard Music Awards and Miss America. Michael Dempsey's
television production career spans over 20 years including over one hundred
television specials and series. Dempsey's directing credits include the Alma
Awards, Live Earth concert, Critic's Choice Awards and three Ellen Degeneres Variety
TV specials.
Nickelodeon, now in its 31st year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids.
It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does.
The company includes television programming and production in the United States and
around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature
films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million
households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 16 consecutive
years. For more information or artwork, visit www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related
titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA - News, VIA.B
- News).
Get ready to jump, dance and sing along to the Laurie Berkner
Band! This DVD compilation is packed with some of Laurie's
most popular tunes, including music videos from her regular
appearances on Jack's Big Music Show. Lyrical themes,
interactive music and movement will promote creativity and help
foster an appreciation for music. Created by Nickelodeon Home
Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment,
Let's Hear It for The Laurie Berkner
Band! rocks its way to shelves September 28, 2010 for
the suggested retail price of $16.99.
Laurie Berkner was the first children's singer ever to
appear in music videos on Nick Jr. An award-winning,
best-selling children's author and songwriter, she has penned
two books and released six CDs as well as a
quadruple-platinum-selling DVD. Parenting Magazine describes
Laurie as "The Pied Piper of preschool." The Laurie Berkner
Band performs across North America, with concerts held at
varied venues from the White House to Carnegie Hall.
Let's Hear It for The Laurie Berkner Band! includes:
"Who's That?"
"Victor Vito"
"Five Days Old"
"My Energy"
"I'm A Mess"
"In The Clouds"
"Pig On Her Head"
"The Cat Came Back"
"Farm Song (That's What I Did On The Farm)"
"I Really Love To Dance"
"I'm Me And You're You"
"Sneaks"
"I'm Not Perfect"
"Rocketship Run"
"Magic Box"
"Fast And Slow (The Rabbit And The Turtle)"
Let's Hear It for The Laurie Berkner Band! Fast Facts:
Street Date: September 28, 2010
DVD SRP: $16.99
DVD Running Time: 44 Minutes
Special Features:
Moose & Zee Music Videos:
"Everywhere I Go"
"Music Makes Me"
"Words of Wonder"
"We're Going on a Trip"
About Nickelodeon:
Nickelodeon, now in its 31st year, is the number-one
entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global
business by putting kids first in everything it does. The
company includes television programming and production in the
United States and around the world, plus consumer products,
online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S.
television network is seen in more than 100 million households
and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 16
consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit www.nickpress.com.
Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are
trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA - News, VIA.B - News).
About Paramount Home Entertainment:
Paramount Home Entertainment (PHE) is part of Paramount Pictures
Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed
entertainment. PPC is a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), a
leading content company with prominent and respected film,
television and digital entertainment brands. PHE is responsible
for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment
products on behalf of various parties including: Paramount
Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Paramount
Famous Productions, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, CBS and
PBS and for providing home entertainment fulfillment services
for DreamWorks Animation Home Entertainment.
Award-winning, best-selling children's performer Laurie Berkner will release her
first-ever collection of greatest hits, The Best Of The Laurie Berkner Band, (Two
Tomatoes Records, distributed by Razor & Tie Entertainment, $9.99, running time
50:15) on June 22nd. All five of The Laurie Berkner Band's CDs are represented:
Whaddaya Think Of That? (1997); Buzz Buzz (1998); Victor Vito (1999); Under A Shady
Tree (2002) and Rocketship Run (2008). Special bonus tracks including a new song,
"Open Your Heart," are also included.
Says Laurie, "After releasing five albums, I felt it was finally time to put out a
compilation of my most requested songs. There have been many changes in recording
technology, my own musical growth and the shape of the band since I released
Whaddaya Think Of That?. I hope families will enjoy taking this musical tour with
us."
As some of the songs have changed over time through live performances, Laurie
thought it would be fun to include alternate versions of 'Pig On Her Head'
and 'Moon Moon Moon' as bonus tracks. The final track on The Best Of The
Laurie Berkner Band is the new song "Open Your Heart." Laurie wrote it
for the national children's charity The Pajama Program (www.pajamaprogram.org), which provides new
pajamas and books to kids in need throughout the country, many of whom are entering
foster care.
The original incarnation of The Laurie Berkner Band was simply Laurie and
keyboardist Susie Lampert. Today, the band comprises Laurie, Susie, Adam Bernstein
(bass), and Bob Golden (drums/percussion). A former preschool music teacher by day
and indie rocker by night, Laurie Berkner started selling her music out of her
living room on her own label, Two Tomatoes Records. Laurie was the first artist to
ever appear in music videos on Nick Jr,, Nickelodeon's 24-hour educational,
commercial-free preschool network, and are featured in nearly all of the episodes of
the channel's "Jack's Big Music Show." The Laurie Berkner Band's debut DVD, 'We
are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band' was certified quadruple platinum. The Laurie
Berkner Band tours regularly across North America.
THE BEST OF THE LAURIE BERKNER BAND TRACK LISTING:
Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz) from Buzz Buzz
Rocketship Run from Rocketship Run
Victor Vito from Victor Vito
We Are The Dinosaurs from Whaddaya Think Of That?
I'm Gonna Catch You from Under A Shady Tree
Moon Moon Moon from Victor Vito
Pig On Her Head from Buzz Buzz
Fast And Slow (The Rabbit And The Turtle) from Rocketship Run
I'm Not Perfect from Victor Vito
I Really Love To Dance from Buzz Buzz
BOOTS from Victor Vito
Five Days Old from Rocketship Run
The Goldfish audio recording from the DVD We Are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band (2005)
Monster Boogie from Buzz Buzz
Song In My Tummy from Under A Shady Tree
I Know A Chicken from Whaddaya Think Of That?
Under A Shady Tree from Under A Shady Tree
BONUS TRACKS:
Pig On Her Head audio recording from Nick Jr.'s Move To The Music video (2004)
Moon Moon Moon audio recording from the DVD We Are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band (2005)
Open Your Heart written for the kids of the Pajama Program (2010)
Children's music superstar and Nick Jr. channel favorite Laurie
Berkner invite families to celebrate with them at "Birthday Party Concerts"
along the East Coast this year.
Kids can wear a favorite party hat and bring their own birthday cake artwork (visit
www.laurieberkner.com to download a picture to color). Families are encouraged to
bring new children's books to the venues, where they will be collected and donated
to Kids Care Clubs (www.kidscare.org). The organization's "Parties With A
Purpose" program promotes the idea of kids giving back to their communities in
lieu of receiving gifts at birthday parties. The items collected at the venues will
go directly to children in need in each city. Says Laurie, "It's important for us
to give back to the communities we perform in."
Widely recognized as one of the most popular indie children's recording artists in
the United States, Laurie Berkner was at the forefront of the current progressive
children's music movement. Her intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and
infectious melodies have won not only legions of little fans, but also parents, who
enjoy the music as much as their kids.
The Laurie Berkner Band has received tremendous critical acclaim. Time Magazine
lauded Laurie as "a kind of sippy-cup Sheryl CrowÉBerkner inhabits a kid's curious
perspective in her lyrics and pens folk-pop melodies that bear repeated - very
repeated - listenings." The Wall Street Journal called Laurie "one of the most
popular children's performer's in America... Her music is distinctive because it
speaks to kids without talking down to them, charming youngsters without boring
grown-ups."
A former preschool music teacher by day and indie rocker by night, Laurie Berkner
started selling her music over ten years ago out of her living room on her own
label, Two Tomatoes Records. Laurie was the first artist to ever appear in music
videos on Nick Jr. (formerly called Noggin), Nickelodeon's 24-hour educational,
commercial-free preschool network, and is featured in nearly all of the episodes of
the channel's "Jack's Big Music Show."
see concert dates
Children's music superstar and Nick Jr. channel favorite Laurie
Berkner will join the Pajama Program in February for a Valentine's
Day-themed fundraising and awareness campaign. Laurie has written a special song
"Open Your Heart" that will be available for free download on www.pajamaprogram.org from
February 8th through February 28th. Families can also film their kids
dancing to the song and submit to openyourheart@pajamaprogram.org in
a Quick Time or MP3 format for possible inclusion in a compilation video on YouTube.
The Pajama Program's "Open Your Heart" campaign is bringing together corporate
sponsors and individuals from across the nation, all with the goal of providing love
and comfort through donations of sleepwear and books to kids in need during the cold
winter months. Pajama Program has dubbed the period from October through March
"Danger Season," in which it is especially dangerous for a child to be without warm
clothing at bedtime.
Said Laurie, "It's an honor to be asked to write a song to help introduce the Pajama
Program to more people. I know bedtime is the most difficult and vulnerable time
of day for my daughter, I can't even imagine what it must be like for a child who
has never had the feeling of safety and love from a parent. I hope that by sharing
the song "Open Your Heart," more people will find it in their own hearts to help
these kids, along with the Pajama Program, in this very simple yet profound way."
Laurie will perform "Open Your Heart" on her February 14 webcast
(www.laurieberkner.com), with special guest Lucy Mueller (Laurie's daughter!)
demonstrating the hand movements that accompany the song.
"Laurie's music inspires so many and touches so many hearts," said Genevieve
Piturro, founder of the Pajama Program. "We are thrilled and honored to have her
write and perform this special song in support of those who need love the most this
Valentine's Day."
Since 1981, the Pajama Program has provided more than 513,000 pairs of new pajamas
and 230,000 books to children in need. Thousands of children served by the Pajama
Program live in orphanages, group homes and shelters. There are more than 500,000
children in the U.S. foster care system. Every two seconds another child enters
foster care. Many have been abandoned or abused, and have never enjoyed the simple
comfort of putting on a cozy pair of pajamas and having a mother or father tuck them
in at bedtime and read to them. Teens in the system have often spent most of their
childhood without warm sleepwear or the chance to read themselves to sleep. The
Laurie Berkner Band spent part of 2009 performing "Pajama Party" concerts across the
country, collecting over 1,700 pajamas and 1,200 books.
Widely recognized as one of the most popular indie children's recording artists in
the United States, Laurie Berkner was at the forefront of the current progressive
children's music movement. Her intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and
infectious melodies have won not only legions of little fans, but also parents, who
enjoy the music as much as their kids. The Wall Street Journal called Laurie "one
of the most popular children's performer's in America É Her music is distinctive
because it speaks to kids without talking down to them, charming youngsters without
boring grown-ups."
A former preschool music teacher by day and indie rocker by night, Laurie Berkner
started selling her music over ten years ago out of her living room on her own
label, Two Tomatoes Records. Laurie was the first artist to ever appear in music
videos on Nick Jr. (formerly called Noggin), Nickelodeon's 24-hour educational,
commercial-free preschool network, and is featured in nearly all of the episodes of
the channel's "Jack's Big Music Show."
NEW YORK (November 23, 2009) - Spirit Music Group (Spirit) announced today the signing of a global,
multi-year publishing administration deal with songwriter/artist Laurie Berkner, widely recognized as one of
the most popular children's performers in America.
The deal, Berkner's first music publishing association since her debut in the late 1990's, covers her entire
creative output including 5 acclaimed CD's, an award-winning DVD, two music-driven picture books and all
future works.
With a background in choral and orchestral performance and pre-school music education, Berkner entered the
children's music scene in 1997 with the release of her first album, Whaddaya Think Of That? Encouraged by a
strong response in New York and her native New Jersey, Berkner formed Two Tomatoes Records for the release of
her second CD, 1998's Buzz Buzz. Berkner's third set, 1999's Victor Vito, received enormous critical acclaim
and enough national attention to warrant the artist's first significant tour for the newly-formed Laurie
Berkner Band.
Following the release of her fourth CD, Under A Shady Tree, and her first picture book-with-CD distributed by
Scholastic's Orchard Books, Berkner burst onto the national stage thanks to a recurring guest role on the
Nick Jr. cable network's popular series, Jack's Big Music Show. Buoyed by a massive new fan base thanks to
the ongoing television exposure and years of national touring, Berkner's first DVD, We Are...The Laurie Berkner
Band, entered at the top of Billboard's Top Music Video chart and eventually sold quadruple platinum.
After the release of a second book-with-CD project, a sheet music folio and production of a custom software
cartridge to accompany Fisher-Price's award-winning toy, 'Learn Through Music Plus,' Berkner released her
fifth studio CD, 2008's Rocketship Run.
In announcing the signing, Peter Shane, Spirit's VP of Creative Services & Marketing noted, "Laurie has a
one-of-a-kind ability to create timeless songs that connect with children as well as their parents. We're on
a mission to find ways to bring her music to an even wider group of young fans."
"Laurie Berkner has made an indelible imprint on children's music," said Spirit President/CEO Mark Fried "and
we are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with her and her team in bringing her music to new and
different media and identifying branding partners here and around the world to extend her reach."
Said Berkner, "I'm excited to be working with Spirit Music Group. I love their passion for music and for the
artists that create it! It's why I feel they genuinely understand me and the appeal of my songs and why they
will be great at finding situations that are just the right fit."
About Spirit Music Group
Spirit Music Group, founded in 1995, is the fastest growing independent music publisher of the last decade,
owning and/or managing more than 15,000 songs spanning 7 decades and every musical genre. The company's
repertoire reflects some of the most beloved songs and songwriters including hits and gems by Frank
Sinatra, Billie Holliday, Elmore James, Elvis Presley, Jackie Wilson, Charles Mingus, Dion, The Beach Boys,
Chicago, Alice Cooper, Pure Prairie League, Chaka Khan, The Go-Go's, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Rickey Martin,
Dido and Mary J. Blige, the complete catalogs of such iconic writer/artists as Lou Reed, The
Grateful Dead, T. Rex, The Marshall Tucker Band, Billy Squier, A Taste Of Honey, Andrea Bocelli, Angela
Winbush and C&C Music Factory and the breakthrough work of such newer artists as MGMT, the
Scissor Sisters and 311. The company has earned a strong reputation as an aggressive royalty
administrator and a peerless promoter of its songs into film, television and advertising productions as well
as a wide range of new media. Spirit Music Group is based in New York with affiliate offices all over the
world. For further information about Spirit Music Group, go to www.spiritmusicgroup.com.
Media Contact:
Alison Voetsch for Spirit
alison.voetsch@gmail.com or (914) 629-7491
Sarah Geist Rosen for Laurie Berkner
skgeist@comcast.net or (847)432-8177
Parents and preschoolers, gather 'round the television and sing along!
Award-winning, best-selling children's music superstars The Laurie Berkner Band
will star in NOGGIN's* new prime-time music special "Let's Hear It For The Laurie
Berkner Band!" premiering Sunday, July 12 from 7:00 - 8:00 PM (EST). The special
features a full hour of 17 music videos from the band, including three brand-new
videos: the first for the new song "My Family," which was created exclusively for
Nickelodeon and is not on any CDavailable anywhere, plus new music videos for
"Five Days Old" and "Fast and Slow (The Rabbit and the Turtle)" from the band's
most recent critically acclaimed CD, 'Rocketship Run' (Two Tomatoes Records,
distributed by Razor & Tie Entertainment). The show will also include preschool
favorites such as "Victor Vito" and "Pig on Her Head," while NOGGIN's Moose A.
Moose and Zee serve as hosts and play interactive music and movement games
throughout the special. NOGGIN is Nickelodeon's 24-hour educational,
commercial-free preschool network.
The Laurie Berkner Band made its' debut on NOGGIN in 2004 with a series of six
music videos airing throughout the day as part of the network's Move to the Music
series. NOGGIN then asked Laurie to be a regular guest star in its' original
half-hour series "Jack's Big Music Show."
Widely recognized as the most popular independent children's recording artist in
the United States, Laurie Berkner was at the forefront of the current progressive
children's music movement. Her intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and
infectious melodies have won not only legions of little fans, but also parents,
who enjoy the music as much as their kids.
The Laurie Berkner Band has received tremendous critical acclaim.
Time Magazine lauded Laurie as "a kind of sippy-cup Sheryl
CrowÉBerkner inhabits a kid's curious perspective in her lyrics and pens
folk-pop melodies that bear repeated - very repeated - listenings." The Wall
Street Journal called Laurie "one of the most popular children's performer's
in America É Her music is distinctive because it speaks to kids without
talking down to them, charming youngsters without boring grown-ups."
The Laurie Berkner Band are:
Laurie Berkner, Vocals
Susie Lampert, Keyboards
Adam Bernstein, Bass
Bob Golden, Drums/Percussion
Children's music superstars and NOGGIN channel favorites Laurie Berkner, Susie Lampert
(keyboards), Adam Bernstein (bass) and introducing Bob Golden (drums/ percussion) will
perform their first-ever "Pajama Party" concert at Town Hall June 28. Kids are encouraged
to come in their pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed animals (those in the know will
put them on their heads for the band's in-concert favorite "Pig on Her Head")! The Laurie
Berkner Band will play old and new hits including songs from 2008's critically acclaimed CD,
'Rocketship Run' (Two Tomatoes Records, distributed by Razor & Tie Entertainment).
Widely recognized as the most popular indie children's recording artist in the United
States, Laurie Berkner was at the forefront of the current progressive children's music
movement. Her intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won
not only legions of little fans, but also parents, who enjoy the music as much as their
kids.
| WHO: |
The Laurie Berkner Band |
| WHAT: |
A Pajama Party Concert! |
| WHEN: |
Sunday, June 28, 1:00 P.M. |
| WHERE: |
Town Hall, 123 W. 43rd St. |
| TICKETS: |
Tickets $25.00; $35.00 via Ticketmaster |
212.307.4100 or online www.ticketmaster.com
When Ziggy Marley decided to release his first-ever children's CD, Family Time (May 5, Tuff Gong Worldwide) he knew
that he wanted fellow indie recording artist and best-selling children's singer Laurie Berkner to be a part of it.
Ziggy asked Laurie to duet with him on the track "Future Man, Future Lady." Says Ziggy, "My kids and I watch Laurie
every morning on 'Jack's Big Music Show' [the program airs on Noggin, Nickelodeon's 24-hour educational,
commercial-free sister preschool network]. I saw her so much on such a regular basis she became a part of my
family's mornings and I thought I had to ask her to do a song with me -- she was practically family at that point
anyway. She is a wonderful spirit and I am so thankful to have done something with her. "
Co-produced with Don Was, Family Time also features a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (Ziggy's
mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibberts,
Elizabeth Mitchell, Paula Fuga and two stories narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis.
Says Laurie, "I feel excited to be a part of this album and I love 'Future Man, Future Lady.' It's such a great song
and Ziggy's vibe is so laid back and warm and strong at the same time. It was fun to find my own voice in relation
to his and the feel of the song."
"Future Man, Future Lady" is about children being future stewards of our planet. Laurie continues, "I like that he's
connecting all of these ideas that kids can be superheroes by taking care of the earth and that they are also the
future of our lives, their own lives, and of what is going to happen in the world. We have a lot of faith and
confidence in our childrens' strength and ability to bring about their own changes someday." Laurie's concern for
the environment has prompted her to make the switch to "green" CD packaging using an eco-friendly package made
entirely of post-consumer recycled paper, rather than the standard plastic jewel case, and to organic cotton for the
band's t-shirts, totes and other merchandise.
With eight best-selling albums and four Grammy awards under his belt, Ziggy says his decision to do a record focusing
on children came "slowly but surely. I now realize I was always being led in this direction." Indeed, he has
contributed to several children's television series' (Sesame Street, Nick Jr.'s Dora the Explorer," and PBS'
"Arthur") as well as the feature film "Shark Tale." Ziggy has also performed many pre-concert children's shows on
tour.
Laurie Berkner's intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won legions of big and
little fans. Laurie has been widely heralded in the media for her major and early contribution to the current
"kindie rock" movement toward progressive children's music that parents enjoy as well. The Laurie Berkner Band
featuring Susie Lampert and Adam Bernstein released its first CD since 2002, Rocketship Run, (Two Tomatoes Records)
last August, to stellar reviews. The Washington Post declared, "A few mommies and daddies might even catch
themselves singing along - if you're like me, perhaps even when the CD is no longer spinning. Oops."
Laurie, Susie and Adam were the first artists to ever appear in music videos on Noggin. They can be seen daily
in-between programming, and appear in almost every episode of 'Jack's Big Music Show.'
It has been six years in the making but worth the wait! Award-winning, best-selling
children's music superstars The Laurie Berkner Band with Susie Lampert and Adam
Bernstein will release their first CD since 2002, 'Rocketship Run,' (Two
Tomatoes Records, distributed by Razor & Tie Entertainment, $18.98, run time 52:32) in
August. Widely recognized as the most popular children's music artist in the United States,
Laurie Berkner's intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies
have won not only legions of little fans, but also parents, who enjoy the music as much as
their kids.
'Rocketship Run' portrays a musical journey on a rocket ship in search of
treasure. Laurie Berkner collaborates with bandmates Susie Lampert (keyboards)
and Adam Bernstein (bass)on 20 new songs and arrangements ranging from a Brazilian
samba to an Irish jig to a folk song set against a gospel/country background. The CD takes
off with the title track - which was seen and heard this season in a NOGGIN* video -
video - and lands with Laurie's lovely solo rendition of the standard "Fly Me to the Moon."
Dialogue among Laurie, Susie, and Adam threads together all the songs, like chapters in a book.
'Rocketship Run' represents considerable growth by The Laurie Berkner Band. Says Laurie, "It's a much more
collaborative effort than I have ever done before. We arranged most of the songs as a band, Susie and Adam have both
contributed songs, and I co-produced the album with Bob Golden, who recorded/produced the sound for all our NOGGIN
videos and our 2006 DVD, instead of doing it mostly all myself. We also have a lot of talented guest artists
performing on this CD."
The Laurie Berkner Band has received tremendous critical acclaim. Time
Magazine lauded Laurie as "a kind of sippy-cup Sheryl CrowÉBerkner inhabits a kid's
curious perspective in her lyrics and pens folk-pop melodies that bear repeated - very
repeated - listenings." The Wall Street Journal called Laurie "one of the
most popular children's performer's in America... Her music is distinctive because it speaks
to kids without talking down to them, charming youngsters without boring grown-ups." The
Laurie Berkner Band performed on "The View" and "Live With Regis & Kelly" last year.
A former preschool music teacher by day and indie rocker by night, Laurie Berkner started selling her music out of
her living room on her own label, Two Tomatoes Records, and all four of her previous CDs are now best-sellers.
Laurie, Susie and Adam were the first artists to ever appear in music videos on NOGGIN, Nickelodeon's 24-hour
educational, commercial-free preschool network, and are featured in nearly all of the episodes of the channel's
"Jack's Big Music Show." The Laurie Berkner Band's debut DVD, 'We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band' (Two Tomatoes
Records/Razor & Tie Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) was certified quadruple platinum.
Laurie will be featured on reggae star Ziggy Marley's first children's CD, 'Family Time'
(Tuff Gong Worldwide, available March 5). Laurie and Ziggy's duet "Future Man, Future Lady"
is about children being the future stewards of our planet. Laurie's concern for the
environment has prompted her to make the switch to "green" packaging for 'Rocketship
Run,' using an eco-friendly package made entirely of post-consumer recycled paper,
rather than the standard plastic jewel case, and to organic cotton for the band's t-shirts,
totes and other merchandise (available at concerts and online at www.twotomatoes.com).
See Concert Dates >>
The Story Of My Feelings Due Out In September (Orchard Books/Scholastic)
The Laurie Berkner Songbook Out This Month (Music Sales Group)
Children's music star Laurie Berkner will release her second book in September,
The Story Of My Feelings (Orchard Books/Scholastic, $12.99, Ages 0-4), based upon
the song from The Laurie Berkner Band's third album, Victor Vito. An
expressive picture book filled with easy-to-read lyrics, it will include a CD with the
title track as well as a bonus song "Walk Along the River." Kids can read and sing along
as feelings come to life through Caroline Jayne Church's delightful illustrations.
"This is the story of when I laugh; When I'm feeling happy that's when I laugh; And it
makes me feel better; It makes me feel better; You know I feel better; After I laugh."
Growing up is not always easy, and it is important for children to be able to identify and
express their feelings. The Story of My Feelings will help kids (and parents) embrace
laughing, sighing, crying and yelling. Says Laurie, "I wrote this song to remind myself
that it's okay to express my feelings with sounds - and to remember how good it feels to
connect with my life energy that way." Laurie's first book, 2004's critically acclaimed
Victor Vito and Freddie Vasco, was released by Orchard Books in paperback this spring.
Laurie Berkner's first sheet music compilation, The Laurie Berkner Songbook (Music Sales
Group, $16.95), was released on June 1st. The book comprises 25 of the band's songs,
arranged for easy piano, voice and guitar. It also includes suggested guitar strumming
patterns and many related play activities suitable for both the home and classroom. An
instrumental sing-along backing CD, containing seven selected songs, is included as well.
The tracks include such favorites as "Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz)," "Victor Vito" and "We Are
the Dinosaurs."
In fall 2007, The Laurie Berkner Band will be featured on a software cartridge that
accompanies a Fisher-Price¨ sing-along, interactive learning system. It will be an
updated version of the current, award-winning product, Learn Through Music Plus. In its
fifth year on the market, this innovative learning platform teaches a fundamental
preschool curriculum through the rhythm, rhyme and repetition of song.
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein are regulars on the
NOGGIN channel's hit preschool series Jack's Big Music Show, a platform for kids' music
featuring videos and in-studio performances by guest musicians every week. The band's
first-ever DVD, We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band (Two Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie
Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) was certified quadruple platinum earlier this year.
Widely recognized as the most popular children's recording artist in the United States,
Laurie's honest, intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have
won not only legions of little fans but parents, who enjoy the music as much as their
kids.
Laurie has contributed to Adam Bernstein's new CD for grownups (kids like it too!), Dust
off the Timeless Night. Produced by They Might Be Giants drummer Marty Beller, the CD is
an original collection of pop gems with thoughtful lyrics and fine musicianship. Says
Laurie, "I'm proud to have been a part of this album. In listening, I am transported to a
world of soulful grooves and heartfelt melodies that have quickly become familiar
friends." It is for sale (among other outlets) at www.laurieberkner.com.
Caroline Jayne Church is the acclaimed illustrator of many books for children including
the Orchard picture book One Smart Goose. She has also illustrated Cluck, Cluck, Who's
There? by James Mayhew; Do Your Ears Hang Low; and Pudgy: A Puppy to
Love. She lives in the United Kingdom.
See Concert Dates >>
"The Laurie Berkner Songbook"
With Backing Instrumentals CD To Be Released June 1st
"The Story Of My Feelings" Book-With-CD
Due Out In September
The Laurie Berkner Band with Susie Lampert and Adam Bernstein drew a massive crowd when they gave a rare free performance for
families at the Green Apple Music & Arts Festival on Sunday, April 22 in Central Park. The Festival was part of a nationwide
Earth Day celebration. A whopping 15,000 big and little fans alike rocked out on the grass to Laurie's hugely popular songs.
New York City Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe likened the show to Woodstock, describing the line of people and strollers
that stretched all the way down to 93rd St. People were climbing over rocks to try to get around the lines on the paths, and
part of the park had to be closed off in an effort to control the crowd. Said Laurie, "Someone stopped me on the street the
other day and told me, "I'm so bummed that we missed your show in the park last week. I heard it was like Simon and
Garfunkel!"
Many of the Laurie Berkner Band's concerts this year have sold out within minutes of going on sale. The Earth Day
celebration was an opportunity for the band to give back to their fans as well as to the earth.
Laurie's first songbook, "The Laurie Berkner Songbook" (Music Sales Group), will be released on June 1st. The book is a
sheet music compilation of 25 of the band's songs, arranged for easy piano, voice and guitar. It also includes suggested
guitar strumming patterns and many related play activities suitable for both the home and classroom. An instrumental
sing-along backing CD, containing seven selected songs, is included as well. The tracks include such favorites as "Bumblebee"
(Buzz Buzz), "Victor Vito" and "We Are the Dinosaurs."
This spring, Laurie's 2004 critically acclaimed book "Victor Vito and Freddie Vasco" will be released in paperback on
Scholastic's Orchard Books imprint. Orchard Books will publish her second book in September, "The Story Of My Feelings,"
based upon the song from the band's third album, "Victor Vito." The book will include a CD with the title track as well as
the song "Walk Along the River."
Also in fall 2007, the band will be featured on a software cartridge that accompanies a Fisher-Price¨ sing-along, interactive
learning system. It will be an updated version of the current, award-winning product, Learn Through Music Plus. In its fifth
year on the market, this innovative learning platform teaches a fundamental preschool curriculum through the rhythm, rhyme
and repetition of song.
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein are series regulars on NOGGIN's* hit preschool series
Jack's Big Music Show, a platform for kids' music featuring videos and in-studio performances by guest musicians every week.
The band's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" (Two Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie Entertainment/Starbucks
Hear Music) was certified quadruple platinum earlier this year. Widely recognized as the most popular children's recording
artist in the United States, Laurie's honest, intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won
not only legions of little fans but parents, who enjoy the music as much as their kids.
See Concert Dates >>
Band To Headline Children's Concerts
At Free Green Apple Music & Arts Festival,
The World's Largest Earth Day Celebration In Central Park, April 22
The Laurie Berkner Band with Susie Lampert and Adam Bernstein will give a rare free
performance for families at the Green Apple Music & Arts Festival on Sunday, April 22 in
Central Park. The Festival is part of a nationwide Earth Day celebration.
Many of the Laurie Berkner Band's concerts this year have sold out within minutes of
going on sale. Says Laurie, "This is a great opportunity for us to give back to our fans
by putting on a free show, and give back to the earth by further raising awareness of the
dire need for us ALL to be environmentalists. I'm really looking forward to being a part
of Green Apple and hopefully inspiring renewed dedication to protecting our planet and
ourselves."
Entering its second year, The Green Apple Music & Arts Festival was founded by producer
Peter Shapiro and Relix Magazine in partnership with Earth Day Network and presented by
JPMorgan Chase. The mission of the event is to increase awareness for Earth Day by
combining top-tier live musical performances with educational programs to elevate
activation of crucial environmental issues on both local and global levels.
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein are series regulars
on NOGGIN's hit preschool series Jack's Big Music Show, a platform for kids' music
featuring videos and in-studio performances by guest musicians every week. The band's
first-ever DVD was recently certified quadruple platinum. Widely recognized as the most
popular children's recording artist in the United States, Laurie's intelligent
songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won not only legions of
little fans but parents, who enjoy the music as much as their kids.
WHO: The Laurie Berkner Band with Susie Lampert and Adam Bernstein
(Opening act Brady Rymer and The Little Band That Could)
WHAT: Green Apple Music Festival Earth Day Celebration
WHEN: April 22, 1:00 P.M.
WHERE: Central Park, The Great Hill (enter from 103rd/Central Park West).
INFO: Visit www.greenapplefestival.com
New Tour Dates Added For 2007
Season Two Of Noggin's Hit Music Series Jack's Big Music Show Underway
Laurie To Appear on American Public Television Fund Drive
"We are É The Laurie Berkner Band" DVD Certified Quadruple Platinum
The Laurie Berkner Band with Susie Lampert and Adam Bernstein is ringing
in the New Year with a host of activities.
Laurie, Susie and Adam have returned to the concert stage in 2007 with
performances scheduled in Chicago, New York, Florida and Boston. Since
their tour schedule began late last year, many concerts have sold out
within minutes of going on sale.
The band has returned to NOGGIN's hit preschool series Jack's Big Music
Show, a platform for kids' music featuring videos and in-studio
performances by guest musicians every week. The commercial-free,
educational preschool network from Nickelodeon kicked off the second
season of its original half-hour music show on January 6. Laurie
Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein are series
regulars, and are featured in almost every episode of season two.
NOGGIN continues to premiere new episodes on Saturdays and Sundays
throughout January and February. The regular time slot for Jack's Big
Music Show is every day, Monday through Sunday from 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
(ET/PT).
Laurie is also set to appear on a live fundraising special for public
television on February 11 that will air on KQED in San Francisco.
Laurie will talk about the importance of children's television
programming. Select videos by the band will also be featured. Those
who pledge their financial support to public television will receive as
a gift the band's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band"
(Two Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music).
American Public Television, a prime source of programming for public
television stations, will distribute the program nationwide beginning in
March (check local listings).
"We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" (Two Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie
Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) was released in 2006 and has just
been certified quadruple platinum. A collection of 11 new music videos,
"We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" is packaged with a bonus CD of
five songs (including a brand-new track, her first on CD since 2002).
The DVD was chosen by Parenting magazine in its February 2007 issue as a
Parenting Mom-Tested! DVD Of The Year.
This spring, Laurie's 2004 book "Victor Vito and Freddie Vasco" will be
released in paperback on Scholastic's Orchard Books imprint. Orchard
Books will publish her second book in the fall, "The Story Of My
Feelings," based upon the song from the band's third album, Victor Vito.
Also in fall 2007, the band will be featured on a software cartridge
that accompanies a Fisher-Price® sing-along, interactive learning
system. It will be an updated version of the current, award-winning
product, Learn Through Music Plus. In its fifth year on the market, this
innovative learning platform teaches a fundamental preschool curriculum
through the rhythm, rhyme and repetition of song.
The trio performed last year on Good Morning America, The Today Show and
Live With Regis & Kelly, as well as at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day
Parade®. Widely recognized as the most popular children's recording
artist in the United States, Laurie's intelligent songwriting,
captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won not only legions of
little fans but parents, who enjoy the music as much as their kids.
See Concert Dates >>
Season Two Of Hit Music Show For Preschoolers
Premieres Saturday, January 6
New Tour Dates Added For 2007
The Laurie Berkner Band with Susie Lampert and Adam Bernstein will return
to NOGGIN's hit preschool series Jack's Big Music Show next year. The
commercial-free, educational preschool network from Nickelodeon will kick
off the second season of its original half-hour music show on January 6,
2007 at 12:00 P.M. (EST).
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein are
series regulars, and are featured in almost every episode of season two.
The band will perform in several music videos including two new songs, "The
Farm" and "Rocketship Run." Laurie also appears in two episodes of Jack's
Big Music Show in which she sings original songs at Jack's clubhouse,
"Little Rhythm," and "Let's Samba."
Jack's Big Music Show, produced by Spiffy Pictures for NOGGIN, is a
live-action series hosted by Jack, a preschooler puppet and his cast of
friends who play every day in his clubhouse. The mission of Jack's Big
Music Show is to expose and foster an appreciation of music in young
children. The series is a platform for kids' music and features videos and
in-studio performances by guest musicians every week.
Nickelodeon Preschool and General Manager of NOGGIN. "Jack makes learning
about music fun and season two will introduce a new, diverse group of
amazing musicians who raise the bar for quality preschool music."
The Laurie Berkner Band made their debut on NOGGIN in 2004 with a series of
six music videos airing throughout the day's programming as part of the
network's Move To The Music series.
Laurie, Susie and Adam recently made their first-ever appearance at the
80th Anniversary Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®. The band performed on
Fisher-Price's® "Magic of Childhood" float. Laurie's songs will be
featured on a software cartridge that accompanies a Fisher-Price®
sing-along, interactive learning system, which is scheduled to hit stores
in the fall of 2007. It will be an updated version of the current,
award-winning product, Learn Through Music Plus. In its fifth year on the
market, this innovative learning platform teaches a fundamental preschool
curriculum through the rhythm, rhyme and repetition of song.
The band performed this year on Good Morning America, The Today Show and
Live With Regis & Kelly. Widely recognized as the most popular children's
recording artist in the United States, Laurie's intelligent songwriting,
captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won not only legions of
little fans but parents, who enjoy the music as much as their kids.
The band's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" (Two
Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) was
released in February of this year. It has been certified triple platinum,
and is fast approaching quadruple platinum status. A collection of 11 new
music videos, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" is packaged with a
bonus CD of five songs (including a brand-new track, her first on CD since
2002).
Laurie recently made the decision to resume live performances after taking
an extended hiatus to spend time with her young daughter. The band marked
its first public performances of 2006 this fall with sold-out concerts on
the East Coast
See Concert Dates >>
The Laurie Berkner Band will make their first-ever appearance at the 80th
Anniversary Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade® in New York City on November
23. The band will perform on Fisher-Price's® "Magic of Childhood" float.
The Parade is broadcast on NBC from 9:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. in all time
zones. Says Laurie, "I'm excited to be a part of such a great holiday
tradition. The fact that it takes place here in New York City, where my
daughter can watch in person, makes it even more special."
Laurie will also give a reading of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" at
Macy's Herald Square on November 19 at 3:00 P.M. The reading is part of
"Macy's Lights Up The Holidays," which culminates with the unveiling of the
store's annual holiday window display.
The Laurie Berkner Band will be featured on a software cartridge that
accompanies a Fisher-Price® sing-along, interactive learning system, which
is scheduled to hit stores in the fall of 2007. It will be an updated
version of the current, award-winning product, Learn Through Music Plus. In
its fifth year on the market, this innovative learning platform teaches a
fundamental preschool curriculum through the rhythm, rhyme and repetition
of song.
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein
performed this year on Good Morning America, The Today Show and Live With
Regis & Kelly. Widely recognized as the most popular children's recording
artist in the United States, Laurie's intelligent songwriting, captivating
vocals and infectious melodies have won not only legions of little fans but
parents, who enjoy the music as much as their kids.
The Laurie Berkner Band can be seen on NOGGIN's hit preschool series Jack's
Big Music Show where they are featured in almost every episode of the
original half-hour music show. The commercial free, educational preschool
network from Nickelodeon will kick off their second season of Jack's Big
Music Show in January 2007, which will feature two new music videos by the
band in addition to show appearances by Laurie.
The band's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" (Two
Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) was
released in February of this year. It has been certified triple platinum,
and is fast approaching quadruple platinum status. A collection of 11 new
music videos, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" is packaged with a
bonus CD of five songs (including a brand-new track, her first on CD since
2002).
Laurie recently made the decision to resume live performances after taking
an extended hiatus to spend time with her young daughter. The band marked
its first public performances of 2006 this fall with sold-out concerts on
the East Coast. More dates are being scheduled through early 2007.
See Concert Dates >>
Fisher-Price, Inc., a subsidiary of Mattel, Inc. (NYSE: MAT) and located in
East Aurora, New York, is the leading brand of infant and preschool toys in
the world. The Company has a 75-year legacy of high-quality toys that
enhance early childhood development. Its often-emulated Play Laboratory
was the first child research center of its kind in the toy industry,
allowing researchers to observe the way children play and how play benefits
their development. Some of the Company's best-known "classic" brands
include Little People®, Power Wheels® and View-Master®. Fisher-Price is
also a leading developer of baby gear products (nursery monitors, infant
swings, high chairs) as well as a wide array of character-based toys
inspired by high quality children's programming such as Sesame Street®,
Dora the ExplorerTM and Winnie the Pooh. The Company's web site, at
www.fisher-price.com, provides valuable information and resources to
parents.
NOGGIN, the commercial-free, educational preschool network from
Nickelodeon, currently reaches 52 million households via cable, digital
cable and satellite TV. NOGGIN, which airs from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
(ET), is like preschool on TV, with educational programming both on-air and
online at www.noggin.com. NOGGIN and all related titles, characters and
logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.
The Laurie Berkner Band will hit the road for the first time this year! Laurie has made the
decision to resume live performances after taking an extended hiatus to spend time with her young
daughter. The band will mark its first public performances of 2006 this fall with sold-out concerts
in New York and New Jersey. More dates are scheduled through early 2007.
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein recently performed on "Good
Morning America," following appearances on "The Today Show" and "Live With Regis & Kelly." Widely
recognized as the most popular children's music artist in the United States, Laurie's intelligent
songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won not only legions of little fans but
parents, who enjoy the music as much as their kids. The Laurie Berkner Band can be seen each week on
NOGGIN's* "Jack's Big Music Show." The commercial-free, educational network for preschoolers will
premiere the series' second season in early 2007, featuring three new songs by the band.
The band's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" (Two Tomatoes Records/Razor & Tie
Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) was certified triple platinum, with shipments totaling 400,000
units. A collection of 11 new music videos, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" is packaged with
a bonus CD of five songs (including a brand-new track, her first on CD since 2002).
See Concert Dates >>
* NOGGIN and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom
International Inc.
The Laurie Berkner Band will hit the road for the first time this year! Laurie has made the
decision to resume live performances after taking an extended hiatus to spend time with her young
daughter. The band will mark its first public performance of 2006 with a concert on Staten Island
in New York on September 24. They will make their Orlando, Florida debut at SeaWorld on October 15,
and will appear in New Brunswick, New Jersey on November 11. More concert dates will be announced
shortly.
The band's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" (Two Tomatoes Records/Razor &
Tie Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) has now been certified triple platinum, with shipments
totaling 300,000 units. A collection of 11 new music videos, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band"
is packaged with a bonus CD of five songs (including a brand-new track, her first on CD since 2002).
Laurie Berkner, keyboardist Susie Lampert and bassist Adam Bernstein will perform on "Good
Morning America" on Saturday, August 26, following recent appearances on "The Today Show" and "Live
With Regis & Kelly." Widely recognized as the #1 children's music artist in the United States,
Laurie's intelligent songwriting, captivating vocals and infectious melodies have won not only
legions of little fans but parents, who actually enjoy the music as much as their kids. The Laurie
Berkner Band can be seen each week on NOGGIN's* "Jack's Big Music Show." The commercial-free,
educational network for preschoolers will premiere the series' second season in early 2007.
See Concert Dates >>
* NOGGIN and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom
International Inc.
Children's music phenomenon Laurie Berkner's first-ever DVD, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner
Band" (Two Tomatoes Records, LLC/Razor & Tie Entertainment/Starbucks Hear Music) has been certified
platinum, with shipments exceeding 100,000 units. The DVD continues to top the Billboard Music
Video DVD chart, holding the #1 spot for six straight weeks since its release. This week's sales are
up by 17%. The DVD marks the first time Starbucks Hear Music has promoted a family entertainment
title. A collection of 11 new music videos, "We are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" is packaged with
a bonus CD of five songs (including a brand-new track, her first on CD since 2002).
Berkner has been at the forefront of the recent explosion in children's music and has cemented
her position as the #1 children's music artist in the United States. Over the past several years,
Laurie's intelligent yet accessible songwriting, warm, captivating vocals and infectious melodies
have garnered weekly appearances on Noggin on "Jack's Big Music Show," a national touring base, rave
reviews from the press, appearances on "The Today Show" and "Good Morning America," and huge CD
sales on her home-grown label Two Tomatoes Records, which is distributed by Razor & Tie.
Co-release is Starbucks Hear Music's First-Ever Family Entertainment Title
"One of the biggest names in alternative children's music." -Child Magazine
"Laurie Berkner's 'Victor Vito' video rocks hard. Minivan hard." -Entertainment Weekly/CNN.com
On February 14th, 2006, Razor & Tie Entertainment/Two Tomatoes Records/Starbucks Hear Music will
co-release the first-ever original music video collection from children's music superstar Laurie
Berkner and her band entitled "We Are...The Laurie Berkner Band," a collection of 11 original music
videos packaged with a bonus CD of five songs. Berkner, whose videos have become a staple on NOGGIN
(Nickelodeon's educational, commercial-free network for preschoolers), is now the top-selling
children's singer in the country. This new music video collection marks the first time Starbucks
Hear Music has co-released a family entertainment title. "We Are...The Laurie Berkner Band" will be
available at Starbucks Company-operated locations in the U.S. and Canada as well as traditional
retail outlets in February.
The Laurie Berkner Band received significant media attention in 2005, with segments on "Good
Morning America" and the "Today Show," and a headlining slot on the first-ever Jamarama Live!
Kidsfest tour, a unique interactive kids' musical experience. Time Magazine lauded Laurie as "a kind
of sippy-cup Sheryl Crow...Berkner inhabits a kid's curious perspective in her lyrics and pens
folk-pop melodies that bear repeated - very repeated - listenings." Child Magazine called Laurie
"the kind of kids' singer whose songs parents sheepishly play even when their children aren't
around."
"Starbucks Hear Music is proud to collaborate with Laurie Berkner, Two Tomatoes Records and
Razor & Tie Entertainment to offer an engaging family entertainment music title, "We Are . . . The
Laurie Berkner Band," says Ken Lombard, president, Starbucks Entertainment. "This co-release further
demonstrates our commitment to helping our customers discover new, quality music in all genres,
including innovative music for families."
"We are very excited about releasing the new Laurie Berkner DVD," Razor & Tie co-owner Cliff
Chenfeld added. " She has built a significant fan base of loyal parents and kids and they are going
to love this collection of music videos. That Starbucks has chosen to collaborate with Two Tomatoes
Records and Razor & Tie to release "We Are . . . The Laurie Berkner Band" as their first
family-entertainment music title adds to her credibility and accomplishments."
The music video collection is produced by award-winning producer Jane Startz. Jane Startz's many
film credits include Miramax's "Ella Enchanted," Disney's "Tuck Everlasting" and Paramount's "The
Indian in the Cupboard," and her television credits include the multiple Emmy Award-winning PBS
show, "The Magic School Bus."
A New York City-based mother, Laurie Berkner turned her experience as a preschool music
specialist by day and rock singer by night into a career as one of the biggest names in music for
families. Over the past several years, Laurie's intelligent yet accessible songwriting, warm,
captivating vocals and ridiculously infectious melodies have garnered awards, rave reviews, a
national touring base and huge CD sales on her home-grown label Two Tomatoes Records, which is
distributed by Razor & Tie. "I have always thought that making videos would be another good way to
connect musically with kids," said Berkner. "The visuals add a new dimension to the songs, and my
hope is that by watching us while they are listening to the music, kids will be even more encouraged
to move their bodies. I'm excited to finally be able to put out this DVD! "
"We Are...The Laurie Berkner Band" is a collection of 11 music videos, including "Bumblebee
(Buzz Buzz);" "Victor Vito;" "We Are the Dinosaurs;" and "Pig on Her Head." Included in the package
is a five-track bonus audio CD of some of The Laurie Berkner Band's best-known hits and the new
song, "Walk Along The River." Laurie wrote the song shortly after the birth of her first baby. "At
that time I was taking many walks along the Hudson River. I was inspired both by watching the water
and watching my daughter Lucy smile whenever I played it for her." Bassist Brian Mueller (and
Laurie's husband) takes the lead vocal on the traditional song, "O Susannah." The collection also
contains extras such as a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the making of the videos, a live on-the-set
version of "I'm a Mess," and hand movements to "Moon Moon Moon."
The Laurie Berkner Band is: Laurie Berkner (vocals, guitar), Brian Mueller (bass) and Susie
Lampert (keyboards).
"We Are...The Laurie Berkner Band" music video collection track listing:
1. "I'm Gonna
Catch You"
2. "We are the Dinosaurs"
3. "Victor Vito"
4. "Walk Along The River"
(previously unreleased)
5. "Under a Shady Tree"
6. "Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz)"
7. "O Susannah"
8. "The Goldfish"
9. "Pig on her Head"
10. "Moon Moon
Moon"
11. Credits/ "Telephone" (live)
Bonus audio CD track listing:
1. "Walk Along the River" (previously unreleased)
2. "We are the Dinosaurs" (from "Whaddaya Think of That?")
3. "Telephone" (from "Buzz
Buzz")
4. "I'm Gonna Catch You" (from "Under A Shady Tree")
5. "The Happiest Song I
Know" (with Tom Chapin from his album "Some Assembly Required")
Contact Sarah Geist Rosen at SKG Publicity,
847.432.8177 or publicity@twotomatoes.com
| 
For kids' music cd
"We are...The Laurie Berkner Band" Continues To Top Billboard Music Video DVD Chart Since Release
