Countdown Entertainment - Press, Company News

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Press Releases

“AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE - - -”

“We opened nominations earlier this year for our “Award of Excellence,” to honor the person who actually helped writer/artists with their careers in 2006. We had a plethora of nominations, and it made me wish I could meet every one of the people you suggested for an award. Congratulations to the three finalists: Marc-Alan Barnette, James Citkovic, and Jamey Whiting.

“I think it’s an incredible honor, as the many letters we’ve received over the past months are sincere and convincing! Thanks to anyone who contributes their excellence, which helps elevate songs and performances, which in turn elevates the enjoyment of music, which elevates the quality of the world - you are an obvious winner in the scheme of things, whether you have a token nod from our company or not. Thank you.

— (Janet Fisher, of Goodnight Kiss Publications, an Active Music Publisher newsletter created for SONGWRITERS and MUSIC BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS, contains information on the Music Industry and Career Related Topics.)”

“ELVIS IS IN THE HOUSE! - NEW DVD A DONE DEAL, THANKS TO CREATIVE CONTENT MANAGEMENT”

“New York, NY, December 18, 2004 - Elvis can now be in the house with a new DVD entitled True Stories, An Elvis Presley Anthology, thanks to Creative Content Management (CCM), a New York and Florida Management and Intellectual Properties firm. CCM and associate Don Grierson brokered the deal between Peter Barton's Elvis Presley Library and Delta Music UK, Kent, England, and the latter is set to release the disc immediately, first in the UK, followed by Europe and the US. CCM Partners, James Citkovic, Al Brodie and David Brodie, teamed up with A&R bigwig Don Grierson (The Jacksons, Joe Cocker, Alice Cooper, Social Distortion, Queen) to secure this DVD deal, originally initiated by Citkovic.

“This impressive Elvis DVD collection celebrates the legendary star with four one-hour documentaries (re-digitized), never before seen video footage, candid interviews with such music greats as B.B. King, Tom Jones and Sammy Davis, Jr., photos by fans, as well as vintage Movietone Newsreel footage plus much, much more. For more information about the DVD visit Delta Music as http://www.deltamusic.co.uk/.

“Creative Content Management has established itself as an industry leader in the area of brokering intellectual properties. The company maintains offices in both Orlando and New York City. For more information, contact James Citkovic at Creative Content Management 212 645-3068.”

“RAMONES DVD DEAL SECURED, BY CREATIVE CONTENT MANAGEMENT”

“New York, NY, December 16, 2004-Creative Content Management (CCM), a New York Management and Intellectual Properties firm, have announced a recent DVD deal celebrating the legendary punk band, The Ramones, with Image Entertainment. CCM's Partners-James Citkovic, Al Brodie and David Brodie-teamed up with A&R bigwig Don Grierson (The Jacksons, Joe Cocker, Alice Cooper, Social Distortion, Queen) to secure the deal. James Citkovic initiated the deal through Chuck Bernal of Artists Worldwide, a management and booking agency representing Ramones drummer, Marky Ramone, who provided the exclusive footage.

“Due out this Spring, the DVD will feature live performances, interviews and the backstage antics of the 1979 originators of punk. For two decades, The Ramones ruled the rock and hardcore scene, becoming one of the best-known mascots for New York City's legendary club, CBGB's. Although the passing of two of the original members, Joey and Dee Dee Ramone have dashed hopes for a reunion tour, the DVD aims to be the next best thing. As the stepping stone for bands from The Clash to The Offspring, music buffs will appreciate an exclusive look back on a band that broke the barriers of rock and remain, to this day, one of the greatest rebels in music history.

“Creative Content Management maintains offices in Orlando and New York City. For more information contact James Citkovic at Creative Content Management 212/645-3068.”

“Hire A Consultant Opens New Doors, With Contacts and Opportunities”

“New York, NY, December 18, 2004 -- James Citkovic, President of Hire A Consultant, a division of Countdown Entertainment, recently secured a film soundtrack deal for one of his clients, Bill Giakas of Jag Wired Music, LLC., based in Rockford, Illinois. Giakas has two songs, "Boys at Play" and "Foreign Girl" will be heard in the film titled, "Desert Cemetery," by Flash Dog Entertainment.

“Bill Giakas, a talented Singer/Songwriter/Producer/Musician composing in the Pop, Dance and Country genres, has been a songwriter for many years. Now, due to the expertise provided by Hire A Consultant, Giakas has found a new avenue for his music -- TV and Film Soundtracks. "Many artists forgot to explore all the opportunities for music that exist today," says Citkovic. By securing this particular deal for Giakas, and other deals for its clients, Hire A Consultant has a track record for opening new doors.

“"Desert Cemetery," a hard hitting film in the tradition of Hitchcock's "Stranger's On A Train," is an action adventure thriller with twists, turns and quite a few surprises.

“Hire A Consultant provides fee-based services to artists looking for new opportunities and contacts, to advance their careers Internationally.

“For more information, please contact: James Citkovic, Hire A Consultant HireAConsultant@aol.com CountdownEntertainment.com”

“Grammy Nominated Producer Chris Conway, Teams Up with UK's Big Life”

“New York, NY, August 19, 2002 - James Citkovic, President of Countdown Entertainment, a long-standing New York-based music management & consultant firm, recently announced that his client, Grammy nominated Producer/Mixer/Songwriter Chris Conway, will now also be represented by Big Life Management. Considered one of the UK's premier artist and producer management company, Big Life will represent Conway exclusively in the United Kingdom and Europe, while Countdown Entertainment will continue on Conway's behalf in the North and South American territories. This co-management agreement was struck to expand Conway's accessibility worldwide. "It's a great opportunity to be with the UK's number one producer management firm, and I'm looking forward being part of the Big Life roster," says Conway. Zak Biddu of Big Life Management is delighted with the co-management arrangement "Chris is a genuine talent with the undoubted ability to succeed in all territories. He represents a very exciting addition to our roster."

“Conway has received a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year for Eminem's "Marshall Mathers"/Interscope. His producing and/or mixing credits include working with Biggie and Eminem for Bad Boy Records on the "Dead Wrong" song, also include work for Mary J. Blige, Lauren Hill, S.W.V., Busta Rymes and Big Pun, to name a few.

“For North/South America: James Citkovic, Countdown Entertainment, James@CountdownEntertainment.com http://www.countdownentertainment.com/”

“Music Consultancy Firm Continues to Help, Up & Coming Artists Secure Deals”

“New York, NY, July 29, 2002 - James Citkovic, President of Hire A Consultant, a division of Countdown Entertainment, recently announced that the services of his firm Hire A Consultant, have assisted yet another up & coming artist in securing a deal. This time, it is an International licensing contract from UK's Urban Gospel Records for the artist "Da Klik" of Divinity Music Works, Inc. (DMWI).

“Kaine Grant, founder and CEO of DMWI, offers this testament to the power (and success) of Hire a Consultant. "Although the premise of your services is quite sound, I had no idea that it would work so fast! In the three weeks that I've used your services I've gotten an abundance of contacts, sent out many packages and have actually received a legitimate music-licensing offer! I will recommend you and your services as a bright alternative to the uncertain and expensive contemporary music-shopping scene. Thanks for everything and please keep up the good work!"

“Hire A Consultant offers fee-based services to artists, small record companies and music publishers, filmmakers, producers and managers to assist them in attaining the success they deserve in this very competitive marketplace by providing advice, contacts and even specific leads.

“For more information call 212-645-3068 or visit the website at CountdownEntertainment.com”

“Hire A Consultant Does It Again”

“New York, NY, October 15, 2002 - James Citkovic, President of Hire A Consultant, a division of Countdown Entertainment, recently announced that, through the services provided by Hire A Consultant, yet another deal has been secured on behalf of a client.

“David Barela of DGB Records has been offered an international licensing contract from Vancouver's Realia Music Inc. The company's focus is instrumental world music with a recent particular emphasis on TV-friendly composers.

“David Barela, founder of DGB Records, offers this testament to the power (and success) of Hire a Consultant. "With Mr. James Citkovic at the helm, 'Hire a Consultant' has taken on the burden of finding industry contacts for me. My association with the 'Hire a Consultant' firm has been brief but productive. As a result of the contacts established through my association with Hire a Consultant, I have a greater distribution of my recordings and have even signed with an international licensing company for the release of my musical compositions. If it were not for Mr. Citkovic, I wouldn't have such global exposure."

“Hire A Consultant offers fee-based services to artists, small record companies, music publishers, filmmakers, producers and managers to assist them in attaining the success they deserve in this very competitive marketplace by providing advice, industry contacts and even specific leads.

“For more information call 212-645-3068 or visit the website at CountdownEntertainment.com”

“Securing Deals & Looking for New Talent: Countdown Entertainment Does It All”

“New York, NY - James Citkovic, president of COUNTDOWN ENTERTAINMENT (CDE) is currently scouting for two major labels and is seeking new talent. Style of music is not as important as is the quality of the individual and his or her level of talent.

“The list of talent Citkovic's company represents and the deals it has inked are impressive. Most recently, Citkovic secured DVD deals for a Ramones' product, and also for an Elvis Anthology. Additionally, CDE obtained a deal for the Canadian pop/rock band CIRCUIT with Top Sail Productions (Warner Bros./Time-Warner), then contracted major producer Dale Penner to produce the group. CDE also represents producer CHRIS CONWAY, most noted for receiving a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year for Eminem's "Marshall Mathers." The company also handles hot sought-after remixer SONIC STATE. And the list goes on.

“Citkovic's distinction as a manager and the head of CDE for the past 20 years is that he also brokers intellectual properties, including major publishing catalogues, masters of platinum artists and films to key decision makers around the world. Additionally, his thriving consulting business, HIRE A CONSULTANT, is also responsible for providing a leg up to more than a hundred budding and established artists from Kentucky to Kuwait.

“As a professional courtesy, James is offering a free initial consultation, now or in the future, to anyone who needs advice on a contract they have been offered. Those interested in taking advantage of this offer can email CDE at James@CountdownEntertainment.com.

“For others wanting their material to be reviewed and considered, Citkovic says "send your best" to Ms. Lovie Jones, COUNTDOWN ENTERTAINMENT, The Music Building, 110 West 26th Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10001-6850 USA, 212-645-3068.

“Creative Content Management Secures Distribution Deal with Lions Share Pictures”

“New York, NY, August 20, 2002 - James Citkovic, a partner in Creative Content Management (CCM) along with Al and David Brodie, recently announced that CCM, which brokers intellectual properties, has secured a distribution deal on behalf of Tumbleweed Productions for its film, Big Hopes, Little Lies, with RGH/Lions Share Pictures.

“This gem of an independent film involving a cheatin' husband, an ex-con, the owner of near bankrupt flower shop and murder is both touching and funny. It has been screened at 15 festivals internationally and has garnered such notable awards as: Best of Festival, Dances with Films Festival; and Silver Award, Comedy, Houston Worldfest Film Festival. The critics also seem to favor the film with LA Weekly declaring it, "...brisk, witty and fun," while Variety writes, "A perfectly scaled tale of small town murder, alienation and floral arrangement..."

“Distribution for Big Hopes, Little Lies is available in all territories, and for more information, contact Lions Share Pictures at (310) 652-2893.

“Creative Content Management is experienced in matching buyers and sellers of all types of intellectual properties including music publishing catalogues, master recordings, films and entertainment companies, large and small. The firm is also involved in artist management and entertainment consulting, and has offices in both New York City (212-645-3068) and Orlando, FL (407) 461-4466.”

“NO SHORTS, AS CIRCUIT SIGNS US RECORD DEAL”

“New York, NY, June 27, 2002. - James Citkovic, a partner in Creative Content Management (CCM) along with Al Brodie and David Brodie, this week announced that CIRCUIT, a Canadian pop-rock group represented by CCM, has signed a recording contract here in the States.

“CIRCUIT inked the deal with LA's Top Sail Productions, LLC (serving as both the production company and record label) thereby becoming the first band out of Ottawa -- in more than five years -- to simultaneously plug into a major US record deal and representation by US management. Top Sail is distributed by WEA, an AOL/Time Warner company.

“There's no power shortage here. CIRCUIT's high voltage pop rock and boundless natural energy ensure that fans stay connected to this group, which blends contemporary sounds with high voltage vocals. Record producer Dale Penner (Nickelback, Econoline Crush, Holly McNarland and Matthew Good) has been working CIRCUIT in the studio, while A&R honcho Don Grierson (The Jacksons, Joe Cocker, Celine Dion, Alice Cooper, Social Distortion) has been brought in to A&R the tracks. A fall release is scheduled.

“President/CEO Chuck Gullo, and partner Michelle Meena, VP Product Management are the two principals of Top Sail Productions. Gullo a 30 year veteran of the music industry, formerly serving as president of All American Music Group/Scotti Bros. Records and vice-president of A&M Records. Meena has had nearly 20 years experience in the industry and last served as product manager at All American Music Group/Scotti Bros. Records. Gullo was first introduced to CIRCUIT by legendary radio personality Casey Kasem, who partnered with Top Sail Productions to release a series of hit compilation CDs entitled "Casey Kasem Presents America's Top Ten Through The Years." "Our goal is to continue to release an exceptional series of compilations with Casey, and to break our first new artist, Circuit. We have taken great care in choosing our first signing, and we feel CIRCUIT has an incredible sound, enormous talent and the ability to become a worldwide phenomenon" says Gullo.

“"CIRCUIT has been working hard on their own for many years now, writing songs, performing and building a following," says Gullo. "The fact that they spend so much time helping various charities just shows what great guys they are. We have great admiration for CIRCUIT as a band and as individuals. We are proud to be working with them."

“Sign on the Dotted Line”

“To be sure, lawyers can be expensive, but there are many ways of knocking those costs down, especially if artists already have a good manager who understands the industry basics. ‘What I like to do is actually save the artist money,’ says James Citkovic, president of New York City-based management firm Countdown Entertainment. A contract with 50 clauses may contain mostly standard fare. ‘I can do 45 of those,’ says Citkovic, noting that the attorney can then concentrate on those five really tough clauses that require extensive negotiation (your lawyer should, of course, also double-check those other 45 clauses as well). In the end, this can lead to fewer billed hours for legal work.

“This scenario, however, requires a good manager, which is easier said than done. "A new artist is often not in the position to get a big famous manager," acknowledges Citkovic. But he notes that some of the biggest managers are also some of the busiest and may have lots of clients demanding their attentions. ‘The best thing is just to find someone who’s hungry,’ he says. ‘A hungry person is going to work harder.’ But always—and we mean always—check that person’s credentials and get references from past and current clients (especially clients who worked with that manager to negotiate deals similar to the ones you might face). ‘Your grandmother can get you a record contract,’ says Citkovic. ‘What I and other experienced managers can do is cut through the red tape and make things happen quicker.’”

Read the complete article from Musician's Atlas: “Business & Legal: Sign on the Dotted Line” — Mike Grebb, Musician's Atlas, January 2005:
http://www.musiciansatlas.com/newsletter/january05/Contracts01_05.htm

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