pridefest

At a statuesque 6ft 2in and slithering into an envious size 4 under the zodiac sign Pisces. An events and community co-coordinator, counselor, club/party hostess. Her latest accomplishment is the assembly of the hot new dance group Xav.E.T.A.R. A group with a diverse cast of talented , imaginative and creative individuals. Tyra known as the mother of, The New York City chapter of the legendary house of Miyake Mugler. Miyake Mugler is where beauty, runway, sexiness and sophistication reign supreme. In her spare time you can catch me also doing some modeling. www.myspace.com/xavetar

Vanessa Valtre has been entertaining audiences in the Tri-State area for almost 11 years. What started out as a Halloween joke has now made her a very well respected entertainer with a plethora of attributes. As a former Ms. Big Apple and Miss Tri-States, she now hosts her own show at the Albatross Bar in Astoria every Friday night. Though life has thrown her a couple of curve balls, her high resiliency factor has helped her maintain a respectful, humble and professional outlook in her work. Now participating in her second year at NYC PRIDEFEST, she's been given the nod to be one of the hostesses at this year's PRIDEFEST Celebration in New York City.

YOUTH PRIDE CHORUS engages the voices of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Straight-Allied youth ages 13-21 in the movement for social change. YPC concerts feature these young artists in exciting, high-energy performances of both classic and current pop, rock, and folk songs, original choreography, and spoken word pieces. Through fun and rigorous weekly rehearsals, YPC singers train in voice, dance, and song interpretation, developing both artistic excellence and leadership skills.

Paula P' Cay - the marvelous Berlin house and soul act, was born in Rumania as a niece of the most famous traditional singer Elena Roizen. When P'Cay was 18, she went to Berlin where she met many Dj's, producers and singers.Her first recordings with DJ Jay Ray was released on the 'DIVAMANIA' sampler. Paula P'Cay's roots are Jazz and Soul. Her strong and sound and soulful voice fits fabulously with House, Electro, Electronic and Hardhouse beats. The atmosphere and the power of her performance overwhelms the party people at once. Her great talent is to improvise live on any DJ set in the clubs.

www.paulapcay.com

The queen of hands-in-the-air vocal anthems, Johnston makes commercial house and does it well. "Peace" was one of the pleasant surprises of the early 90s, getting placed on the high profile compilation Red Hot and Dance next to Sly Stone and George Michael. She parlayed the song into an album deal with Atlantic.

From those lofty heights she has continued to record uplifting house with a spiritual slant for Yellorange and Equal Records. She also found the time to cut a non-dance LP for her Starbound label and perform backing vocals for Lauryn Hill. Her last two singles, "House Music" and "Lift U Up," have been collaborations with Italian producer Luis Radio.

New Album Release June 2008 ..."Freedom"

A Chicago native, Jason has been musicial since he can remember. He started playing piano at three years old, then moved on to the violin, then the saxophone and then back to the piano. This was part of the territory for Jason since he was raised in a musical family. Jason's grandfather had his own Chicago band. His father also played in the band and instruments always surrounded the entire family. Growing up, Jason wanted to continue his music education so he decided to attend DePaul University for Vocal Studies and Music Management. Cementing that he's got the chops, Jason was invited to be featured on the praiseworthy "Turn It Up America" collection. These experiences started it all and help propel Jason into his own artist with his own vision, which cannot be any more evident than in his debut recording "Start To Move."

Jason's music can be found on iTunes, PerfectBeat.com and retail nationwide. For more on Jason, please go to www.jasonantone.com or www.myspace.com/jasonantone.

Born to Dominican American parents in Washington Heights New York City, by the tender age of five, Vanessa Conde took singing lessons under her mom, an accomplished organist and music teacher. At age 17, Vanessa had been accepted into Westminster Choir College as a Vocal Performance Major, a prestigious music school in Princeton NJ. Although Vanessa Conde was trained in the finer arts, as a child growing up in Washington Heights in New York, she also grew up on a musical diet of Latin Hip-hop/Freestyle/Dance and underground House music. Jump forward to 2008 and Vanessa can be heard in International Dance clubs and radio stations with her House club hits “Let the Music Play” (Warner Brothers International) and “Peace and Love” with production by Midnight Society and Alma Matriz (of Tribal Circuit anthem fame “Rapido” and “Music Electrica”). Already having cultivated a following from her previous Freestyle/Trance song “For You”, she also has on her past belt several on stage cameo appearances and impromptu performances with fellow artist such as Amber and George Lamond. Praised by international producer Johnny Vicious as a “GRAND VOICE”, Vanessa is ready to bring her songwriting into another realm!

This award winning singer/ songwriter is best known for the #1 platinum hit "Catch Me I'm Falling" on Virgin Records. Along with co-founder, musician/producer/ arranger Whey Cooler, they are the driving force of Pretty Poison. This ground breaking late 80's pop band helped pave the way for crossover acts such as Britney Spears, Christina Agulera and Pink. Jade has been increasingly in the public eye of late; - Pretty Poison's Catch Me I'm Falling can be heard in Adam Sandler's "Don't Mess With The Zohan" and is being recognized by VH-1 as one of the Top hits of the 80s on it's Top 100 OHWs Countdown.

Jade's new single F.L.G. will be released in the Spring of 2009 with mixes by Canadian superstar DJ Cajjmere Wray. Starling and Cooler are also credited as writers on the latest Joss Stone CD" Introducing Joss Stone" on track 10 "Proper Nice". Jade recently lent her vocals to an exciting project by Hydra Productions. The song "Good Girls features Jade, Gioia Bruno of Expose' fame and Kim Esty formerly of Kon Kan. In 2005, Jade's partner in Pretty Poison co-wrote a song to help raise donations for the Hurricane Katrina relief effort. Brook Lapping Productions found the song entitled "Blue Monday" and licensed it for use in their movie "Surviving Katrina" which has been shown on the Discover Channel each year since the disaster.

http://www.myspace.com/jadeshouse

My name is Roberto Esteban Vassilarakis a.k.a. Simply Rob I am a born and raised NY'er of El Salvadoran and Greek descent. Best known as a spoken word artist I am also an actor and a photographer. The last 15 years of my life have been dedicated to mentoring the "at risk" inner city youth in The Bronx and Manhattan with the likes of such agencies as Safe Horizons The Streetwork Progect, Hispanic AIDS Forum and Montefiore Medical Center's The Adolescent AIDS Program. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with many Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgendered adolescents as well as their straight counterparts and those who might be questioning or uncertain about their sexuality. I percieve the gay scene in NY to be so wrapped up in partying, having sex and using drugs and in MY OPINION more preoccupied with fukin our youth then nurturing them. I feel very strongly about the responsability of being an openly gay role model that the youth that I work with or know in my personal life can depend on for support without the fear of being sexualized or exploited. www.myspace.com/simplyvrob

“Music is the only thing in my life that, even today, makes me the happiest.” – Christine Martucci Christine Martucci got wrapped up in music at an early age. Born into a musical family, her and her brothers learned to play multiple instruments as kids. She attributes this passion to her father, a trumpet player, and it was this love for music that tightly bonded the family together. “Because of my childhood and being brought up around music,” says Christine, “I learned to appreciate it, to really start listening to the songs, the lyrics, the hooks, the meat and potatoes of a song, what made it unique.” She started writing her own original material when she was nine years old, and she hasn’t stopped since. Christine still cites her father as her biggest influence, but from there she goes on to list a variety of artists she has been taking pointers from for years. Whether it’s classic rock (the Beatles, Bob Dylan), jazz and rhythm and blues (Bessie Smith, Howling Wolf), or Motown (Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin), she takes the best of all her influences and molds them into a style that is all her own, one that is honest and refreshing, one you can feel as much as you can hear.

A Japanese performance duo in France, Ishitobi (Tobi) and Miyamaé (Miya). In Tokyo 1996, 1st stage. Les Romanesques made known by their kitsch songs and choreographies in the Japanese capital. In 2000, 1st arrival in Paris. In keeping essence of humor, les Romanesques sing songs in French for the new public. Since, they’ve made different shows blending with French style (baroque satiric cabaret), and also their appearances on French TV and CM. Now, their performance is accepted not only in France but also in Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Dutch. Les Romanesques have become one of the most famous Japanese in Europe.

Gerald Goode is a New York Metropolitan Area-based musician known for his incredible voice, dynamic production work, Billboard-chart-topping remixes and his long-time tenure as the lead singer of the rock band Simple Jim. With just one listen to his self-produced debut solo CD, “For Those Who Have,” it is evident that his passion for music is strong; his artistic vision - bold. The record is a refreshing return to Album Oriented Rock: it flows seamlessly from song to song, along the way blending Gerald’s soulful voice with his brooding piano riffs, his often dark & reflective lyrics, his sweeping orchestral landscapes and guitar-infused electronica. Released September 2008 on Gerald’s own imprint Vessel Music, this recording offers the commercial appeal of artists in the vein of Coldplay and Rob Thomas, but also has the dark, emotive strains of a performer like Fiona Apple. Throughout the 14 self-penned tracks on “For Those Who Have,” Gerald puts his heart out on the line as he sings about failed relationships, addiction, self-respect, the ins & outs of love and the loss of innocence.

For the past five years Jasper has graced the stages of various well-known music venues including, CBGB's, Crobar Miami and has participated in the prestigious CMJ Music Festival. Recently she has performed at such New York Underground Hotspots Santos Party House, VANDAM, Touch Nightclub, and abroad at the world renowned nightclubs HEAVEN and DUCKIE in London. Jasper will be playing NYC Fashion Week this February, and will be touring the Southwest March 15-24 and the West Coast through April 15.

Her song, "This House" was featured on the soundtrack to John Cameron Mitchell's controversial feature film "Shortbus" (2006). The song shared space with established acts such as Yo Lo Tengo, The Ark, Justin Bond and The Animal Collective.

Song writer, rapper, actress, model, producer, and to some a poetess. Sonia Bladez's has an extremely versatile style. At a young age Sonia Bladez participated on talent shows, dance performance, modeling and sports. Resided in Brooklyn when she was 8 years old. Two years later moved to Jersey City where she discovered her passion for music. Performed in grammar school on several talent shows. In high school played the snare drums obtaining more experience as a musician. Before persuing a professional performing career, after high school became a United States Marine. Achieving so much during those four years in the military, in 2002 made the decision to return to performing. Since then she has been writing lyrics, has been doing collaborations, working in films and also photo shoots. She has gotten to this point, having full control of her music, lyrically and creatively. Managing every step of her career whether is acting or music performance. Soon she'll be releasing her album independently under her ownlabel, Strong Forces Headquarters.

Who is Xavier-Raye? One Word-Entertainment. So what can you gather from a Delaware born star by the name of Xavier-Raye? Natural Superstar. Born on June 1st, and raised to a Dominican father and Indian mother in the small town of Houston, Delaware, Xavier always knew music was in his blood. Always aware of his talents, Xavier-Raye maintained the traditions of a natural star from shower operas, to mirror serenades, and the ever used performing for family and friends. Needless to say, he had the gift early. Drawing on diverse influences ranging from Stevie Wonder to Michael Jackson, from Patti to Marvin, Xavier performs with the same ferocity as he did as a youth maintaining his love for entertaining. His melodic voice escapes from the mic and fills the room wowing the audience as they immediately begin to rock in tune with the track. Xavier sings about real life issues of love, and relationships from being in the club to regret. The sexy, seductive, and provocative sounds of “iCandy” is the first single being release off his debut album "Formal Introduction". Xavier-Raye's music has a maturity that appeals to an older demographic while maintaining its core fan base in young America. With naturally good looks, this entertainer with additional interest in clothing design and acting is on a great path. Talented and blessed by God, Xavier-Raye is a rising star headed straight to the top. Are you ready to be introduced to Xavier Raye?
www.myspace.com/xavierrayemusic

After having various experiences with several music genres, LALA became very versatile but her love is still R&B/Pop. The range of learning and musical challenges is never enough for her. LALA joined a Chinese singing talent contest put on by the leading Chinese TV station, FAIRCHILD TV, in Canada. LALA competed and sang in Mandarin and Cantonese. Because she is westernized and did not speak Cantonese or Mandarin well, LALA worked very hard learning the songs phonetically and won second place in the contest. She is now showcasing her originals, appearing on the radio and music videos, recording and collaborating with other artists and musicians, DJs, choreographers, dancers and gigging with wedding/corporate cover bands.

LALA is driven to become a success story. An interviewer once asked her what fuels her to be so unstoppable and driven, and LALA answered, "God has given me a talent, and I am going to take it to the fullest!"

Since her Coming Out in March of 2006, Michaels has taken Me & The Girls from coast to coast to the biggest pride festivals, club shows, music festivals, appearances, benefits, etc. all over the country. She has been non-stop with her LIVE OUT LOUD PRIDE TOUR (which kicked off at Dinah Shore Weekend in April 2008). While on tour, Lori Michaels has graced the cover of GLBT magazines from NY to LA - including: GO! (cover & 2 features), SHE (2 features), Curve (mentions, features & Entertainer of the Year) IN LA (cover & feature), San Francisco Bay Times (feature), GirL (cover & several features) and more. She has also been interviewed and had her songs played on Clear Channel radio stations, satellite and internet radio such as: Sirius OUT Q, Z-100- NY’s # 1 Hit Music Station, WEOW 92.7, 99.5 The Sun, Energy 92.7, G.I.R.L. Radio, AOL Radio, Voice of America, and more. Vlog interviews have included Afterellen.com’s All Access Pass & GirlRock. SheWired.com’s “What’s Your Problem?” features a 3 part series on Lori (& the girls) with a theme song written and performed by Lori Michaels. With various television networks (LOGO, TLC, Style, CW11, here! Networks and more) showing footage of Lori, we can see why everybody wants more than music from Lori Michaels!

Houston Bernard is a performer and activist, and has been touring the world promoting human rights and free speech since April 2003. Houston has worked as a musical supervisor and actor for movies such as '2 Minutes Later' and 'Will You' with director Robert Gaston. Houston's first album was in the Top 10 Indie Albums for Advocate Magazine, and his video for SAY GOODBYE ( Kaz Gamble Remix feat. Raistalla) was voted 2 Video of 2007 on Mtv/LOGO.

You can purchase his music on his website www.HoustonBernard.com

Vim artist Deli was born and raised in The Bronx. She is a 24 yr old out Lesbian performer. She hosts an open mic party in the city called "Tempermental" for the LGBT Community. Deli has been performing at Pride events for a couple of years starting with Brooklyn Pride , Queens , Fairground out at Night, Aqua Party Fla. and lots of other girl parties. She has wow the crowd every time and continues to do so . Deli is looking forward to bringing it back to NYC Stagefest She has just released her third album. Check out Deli on her my space page www.myspace.com/vimartistdeli

Project L.E.G.A.C.Y. In the city where dreams come true, the big apple, from where cold concrete sounds rumble from the underground lesbian Hip-Hop and R&B scene .It is as if sunny Hollywood were right amongst us. This melting pot of artist from different beginnings and pursuits inspired two who have risen determined to conquer the night and emerge the greatest of their time. They are Project L.E.G.A.C.Y.—the definition.

Take a powerful combination of funky dance, bluesy rock & urban pop, add high energy performances, and you get the music of Farrad – a potent performer and songwriter who leaves crowds mesmerized, inspired, and bumping in unison to the beat. Farrad recently debuted his first single, "The Way U Do", off his first self-titled solo album at Joe's Pub on New Year's Eve. Farrad commands a stage with precise choreography, unbridled passion, boundless energy and the singular focus to give the crowd more than they bargained for – infusing every song with power, theatrics, and ridiculously catchy hooks. A regular in the downtown New York City performance scene, Farrad frequently plays to audiences that have a taste for the underground and a finger on the pulse of what inevitably becomes mainstream. Get ready for clever, heavy-hitting, urban-crossover jams that won't leave you sitting for long. Raw emotion, precise delivery, and a whole lotta soul.
www.farrad.com

Countre Black from Jacksonville, Fa now resides in Los Angeles, Ca has been singing since she could talk. She writes all her lyrics from start to finish. She has placed written songs on NBC Hit TV show "Ugly Betty" and Bravo's Hit show "Step It Up And Dance". She has collaborated with the Top Producers & Artists in the music industry and NOW working with Ms. Linda Perry. She has hit the stage from Ford Amphitheater, The Key Club, House Of Blues (Sunset & Anaheim), and The Cat Club to the hottest dance clubs & lounges in Los Angeles. Graced the stage along side of national recording artists Twista, GhostFace Killa, Too Short and pop star Macy Gray. “Get Ready, She's Here.”

Kayne is 20yrs old she was born on October 15,1998. Kayne hails from Brooklyn NY and was raised in Long Island. Kayne started rhyming at the age of 12. It wasn't a serious thing at first, she would kick flows about her basketball games. At the age of 14 she put the ball down and offically picked up the microphone forever. Her first cousin helped her craft her art. Derelect Camp the queens group put her on and MI aka Mr Mizzac showed her the way. As Kayne would say its been on since then. Nowadays Kayne has changed her style she is a smoove flowed ladies lady. In Kayne's words "I am the lesbian poster child focused, ready,and willing so lets get it GET MONEY baby yes sir!

Twenty-two years ago Soneboy, walked into a gymnastics facility with big dreams and aspirations. Young Soneboy (sonni boy), as his grandmother would call him, started his artistic journey in one of the toughest sports for any athlete, mentally and physically. He loved the challenge of getting his body strong and flexible enough to perform such amazing skills. As he grew up, he continued to use the skills and discipline he acquired through gymnastics to enhance his creativity and passion for dance and music. Soneboy's unique and catchy sound is inspired by the great artists of the 80's and 90's, along with his parent's 50's, 60's, and 70's music which made up the soundtrack of his youth. He began singing and songwriting at a very young age and always had a knack for performing. For the past 6 years, he has been performing with a multimedia performance ensemble where he has learned various styles of rhythms and dance. Soneboy is currently in the studio finishing his debut album.

http://www.myspace.com/soneboymusica

Brooklyn has had its share of groundbreaking entertainers. First there was Big Daddy Kane and MC Lyte, then there was The Notorious BIG and Lil Kim, and next to put his mark down is the infamous Shorty Roc. Shorty Roc burst on the scene in 2003 with his underground smash "Ten Gay Commandments", his rendition of the classic DJ Premiere produced Biggie joint "Ten Crack Commandments". He took his music to the streets with the banger and performed at clubs such as, Langston?s, The Legendary Warehouse, The Clubhouse, and Sunday Nights at The Lab, gaining underground praise for his street delivery, catchy punch lines and his heavy performance along the way. He has put out at an initial mix tape called, "The Mix tape: Jackin' Beats", which he put hot flows on top of some of the hottest hits, which made its way through the NY gay circuit.Shorty Roc believes his purpose is to talk to the Community about issues in their lifestyle such as, safe sex, dating, troubles with society, and pride for self. His long term goal is to cross over as a hip hop artist, regardless of sexual orientation.