Bug writer Arlo Guthrie was recently presented with the ASCAP Foundation Champion Award for music in the service of vital causes dedicated to a better world. The accolade was presented during the Foundation’s 14th Annual Awards Ceremony, held Dec. 9, 2009 at the Lincoln Center in New York. We would like to congratulate Arlo on this most prestigious award.

David Hidalgo & Louie Pérez of Los Lobos and Latin Playboys revisit their roots. During the past year and when they could find the time, David and Louie of Los Lobos and Latin Playboys fame took to the road for a series of Songwriter shows celebrating their 40 years of songwriting collaboration. The shows were a chance for them to play songs from their voluminous and varied catalog while also discussing the genesis of many of their songs and the songwriting process. The two also released a limited edition CD entitled “Unreleased Songs and Rare Recordings” which brought to light several songs written though the years which had never been released before. During the process of sifting through various songwriting notes and recordings, the guys came across a Latin Playboys track entitled “In 1964”. It’s a spoken work piece that was originally a poem published in the LA Weekly. Along with a handful of other unreleased songs it will make up a new release entitled “The Long Goodbye” which will be released Jan. 19th in select independent stores and online at www.latinplayboys.org In addition to “The Long Goodbye” CD, the guys will also be releasing a limited edition companion songbook with drawings by Louie Perez as well as new Latin Playboys shirts. Forthcoming will be a book of photography and a new Latin Playboys album! All items and information can be found on their website.

What do they say about good things coming to those who wait? Well for artist/songwriter Paul Collins and his classic power-pop album of 1979 “The Beat”, the wait may have taken 30 years, but it is now over as Sony/Get Hip reissues the band's self-titled debut album which many have cited as one of the Top 10 best power-pop albums of all time! Paul (of Nerves and Breakaways fame) is happy to see this reissue as the album has been out-of-print for the last few years, and it should please many of those who were “there” the first time around as they can now put away their long-worn copies and reach for the new one; and for those too young to remember, it will give them a chance to see “how it was done way back then”. Check out “Rock and Roll Girl”, “Walking Out on Love” and “Working Too Hard”. For a taste, you can check out this link to some incredible videos of the BEAT 1979 on American Bandstand: http://www.thepaulcollinsbeat.com/discography/videos/videos.html

Bug writer Frank Fitzpatrick wrote the song “Soul Music” which Soul/R&B artist Anthony Hamilton performed as the title song to the film and soundtrack to “Soul Men”, the film featuring Samuel L.Jackson, Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes.The song has been nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance. We would like to congratulate Frank on the song's prestigious nomination, and it should also be noted that Bug writer/producer Scott Bomar produced the track in his Memphis, TN. studios known as Electraphonic Recordings. Way to go guys!

Ever heard of a pumpkin with germs? No it’s not a joke. It’s the latest news that Smashing Pumpkin’s leader Billy Corgan is starting an as-yet-unnamed label and has signed the Germs as one of its acts along with the Electric Prunes and Strawberry Alarm Clock. The label’s co-founder Kerry Brown said “in the near future we plan on recording two songs that Darby Crash wrote with Pat Smear, “Out of Time” and “Beyond Hurt”. They were written, but then Darby committed suicide and the songs were never recorded.” The original line-up will be recording these “new” songs: Pat Smear (guitar), Lorna Doom (bass), Don Bolles (drums) and Shane West will be singing. http://pitchfork.com/news/37504-billy-corgan-launches-record-label-signs-the-germs/

The Stooges will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 15, 2010 in New York City. The band, led by Iggy Pop, came sneering out of Ann Arbor, Michigan in the late ‘60s with a primal, growling sound that paved the way for punk, new wave, grunge and other edgier music genres. This American rock band was first active from 1967 to 1974 and reformed in 2003 with bassist Mike Watt (of the Minutemen, fIREHOSE) replacing the deceased Dave Alexander, touring extensively and releasing an album of new material. In early 2009, guitarist Ron Asheton was found dead from a heart attack in his Ann Arbor home; several months later, the band announced plans to continue performing with later guitarist James Williamson replacing Asheton. Iggy has said that he will join with Mike Watt, Scott Asheton, Steven Mackay and former guitarist James Williamson and perform Raw Power as 'Iggy and the Stooges', with an openness to future projects with this lineup. He also stated that “although 'the Stooges' died with Ron Asheton, there is still 'Iggy and the Stooges’”. Thank goodness for that!We congratulate The Stooges on being part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2010.

“This sad news reached most of us while we were enjoying the holidays with loved ones and in a split second the spirit of the season took on new meaning as those of us who knew Vic were left to wonder how this could happen and to relish and remember the good times we shared with him and the beautiful music he left us. Our condolences go out to Tina and the rest of Vic’s family and friends.” – Eddie Gomez, Sr. VP of Creative Bug MusicIn 1983, at the age of 18, singer-songwriter Vic Chesnutt was in a car accident that changed his life. He was left partially paralyzed — he lost the use of his legs, and his hands and arms were compromised — but in the wake of the crash he also began to focus more on his music, and seven years after the accident, Chesnutt recorded his first album.After a 1992 PBS documentary broadcast his story, celebrated musicians — including Nanci Griffith, Garbage, Madonna and Sparklehorse — came together to record a tribute album in 1996, entitled Sweet Relief II: Gravity of the Situation.Over the years, Chesnutt recorded more than 15 albums and became celebrated for a dark vision and a Southern Gothic storytelling style. He became known, too, for songs that explored an awareness of — and flirtation with — his own mortality. In a conversation with Terry Gross in early December, 2009, Chesnutt talked about his inspiration for the song 'Flirted With You All My Life' from his latest album, At The Cut.'Well, it occurred to me that I would like to sing this song where, at the first half of it, you think I'm singing it about a lover, and then it becomes obvious that I'm singing about death. Death is my lover.'In that interview, Chesnutt acknowledged that he'd tried to kill himself more than once, both before and after his accident. But he told Terry Gross that 'Flirted With You' wasn't about wanting to die, precisely.'You know, I've attempted suicide three or four times,' he said. 'It didn't take. And this is really a breakup song with death.'Death proved a jealous lover. Chesnutt died on Christmas Day, 2009, two days after taking an overdose of muscle relaxants.

For those familiar with this classic music game in the tradition of Guitar Hero or Dance Dance Revolution, the new Tap Tap Revenge 3 follows the success of its predecessors as iPhone’s most popular game ever. Tap Tap Revenge re-launched at the end of ’09 as a free iPhone game and included the Bug Music Room as part of their online section. You can read more about the launch of the rooms here:http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/industry/e3ia146767973020e6f9851d028d5b04fe6http://www.businessinsider.com/tap-tap-revenge-3-going-free-today-as-tapulous-bets-on-virtual-goods-2009-12

Wente Wines helps Bug Music to spill the wine, spill the wine, spill the wine! But do not get it on the carpet! This past December as part of their “Discover the Wine, Discover the Music” campaign, Wente Wines helped Bug Music sponsor their annual Holiday bash in which over 400 movers & shakers from the music industry attended.We want to thank Wente Wines for their hospitality and for helping us to bring some holiday cheer to our guests – Salute!

Bruno Mars lends his smooth vocals and writing talents on B.o.B.’s new single “Nothin’ On You”. B.o.B’s album B.o.B. Presents The Adventures of Bobby Ray (Atlantic Records) is slated for a 2nd quarter release. Bruno Mars, who recently inked an artist deal with Atlantic Records, has been busy in the studio working on his debut album while continuing to write and produce the hits for other artists.

A premier banjo player, Bela is considered one of the most innovative pickers in the world and recognized for his fusion of everything from traditional bluegrass to progressive jazz. With 24 nominations, (11 of those wins) in jazz, pop, classical, country, bluegrass, Latin, spoken word, world music, etc…, Bela has more nominations in more diverse categories than any other musician, and this year he earned 3 additional Grammy nominations for:Best Pop Instrumental Performance“Throw Down Your Heart”,
 Béla FleckTrack from: “Throw Down Your Heart: Tales From TheAcoustic Planet, Vol. 3” — Africa Sessions (Rounder Records)Writer: Béla FleckBest Contemporary Jazz Album“Sounding Point” Julian Lage 
(Emarcy/Decca Records)Songs: “The Informant” (Thile, Fleck) and “Long Day, Short Night” (Thile, Fleck)Writers: Chris Thile and Béla FleckBest Contemporary World Music Album“Throw Down Your Heart: Tales From TheAcoustic Planet, Vol. 3” — Africa Sessions
, Béla Fleck (Rounder Records)Writer: Béla Fleck

Premier producer and songwriter T Bone Burnett helps to bring his late pal and collaborator Stephen Bruton’s songs to the big screen in the much buzzed-about new film “Crazy Heart”, for which actor Jeff Bridges is winning accolades for his portrayal as singer/songwriter Bad Blake, a down-but-not-entirely-out musician in desperate need of redemption. Stephen Bruton, who passed away this last May, worked closely with his childhood friendT Bone on the music for the film. Together they penned the songs “(To Get A) Hold On You”, “Gone, Gone, Gone”, “I Don’t Know” and “Somebody Else”. Stephen, who was known for and respected as a guitarist, songwriter and singer and had played with Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson, Bonnie Raitt and many others, handled music supervisor duties amongst other things for the film. T Bone has said that “Stephen’s music is the beating heart of this movie”.

Marc Nelkin cowrote “Backstabber,” on Ke$ha’s debut album on RCA, which entered the Billboard Top 200 album chart at #1!

Bug writer and artist Luke Bryan just topped the Country charts with his first #1 single “Do I” from his album “Doin’ My Thing” (Capitol Records), while Mercury Records recording artist and songwriter Easton Corbin signs with Bug Music Nashville. Easton’s debut single “Little More Country Than That” is currently at #19 on the Country Singles chart and still climbing. We congratulate Luke and Easton and look forward to a great year ahead for both of these very talented gentlemen.

Iyaz’s debut single “Replay” reached #1 on the UK singles chart and #1 on Billboard Pop Songs chart. He also reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. His debut album My Life (Beluga Heights Records/Time Is Money/WB) is slated for a March 2010 release.

Vic Chesnutt, whose darkly comic songs about mortality, vulnerability and life’s simple joys made him a favorite of critics and fellow musicians, died Friday, December 25 in a hospital in Athens, Ga. He was 45 and lived in Athens. Chesnutt gave us plenty of beautifully poetic dark tinged songs. We at Bug had a long relationship with Vic. He will be sorely missed.

Bruno Mars’ song “Wavin’ Flag” as performed by K’Naan has been named as the official anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. A remixed version of the track called “Wavin’ Flag: The Celebration Mix” will soundtrack the campaign, which kicks off in South Africa on June 11 next year. “Wavin’ Flag: The Celebration Mix” will be used globally during the tournament.

Prolific songwriter and legend joins the Bug roster.

New Bug client Thao Nguyen gets 'Cool Yourself' into NBC hit show.

Song 'Hot Mess' is star on tour.

The song, covered by Latin Pop artist Ednita Nazario, appears on her new album, 'Soy'.

We’d like to congratulate Bug writer Shawn Mullins on the success of his co-write “Toes” which the Zac Brown Band has taken to #1 on the Billboard Country Singles Chart. The song from the band's 2008 release “The Foundation” (Atlantic) just continues to ride the charts. Shawn, who’s had much success on his own as an artist & writer, penned the classic song “Lullaby” in 1998 and continues making great albums, his latest being last year's “Honeydew” on the Vanguard label.

Bug/Windswept writer Ashley Gorley was named ASCAP’s Songwriter of the Year at ASCAP’s annual Country Music Awards. He was also the recipient of three song awards including one for Brad Paisley & Keith Urban’s song “Start A Band”, another for Darius Rucker’s song “It Won’t Be Like This For Long’ and the third one for Trace Adkins' song “You’re Gonna Miss This” which also captured ASCAP’s Song of the Year Award. Way to go Ashley!

Record of the YearUse Somebody
Kings Of Leon
Jacquire King & Angelo Petraglia, producers; Jacquire King, engineer/mixer
[RCA Records]Writers: Jared Followill, Matthew Followill, Caleb Followill, Nathan FollowillSong of the YearUse Somebody
Caleb Followill, Jared Followill, Matthew Followill & Nathan Followill, songwriters (Kings Of Leon)
[RCA Records]Writers: Jared Followill, Matthew Followill, Caleb Followill, Nathan FollowillBest Female Pop Vocal PerformanceSober
Pink
Track from: Funhouse
[LaFace Records]Writer: Kara DioGuardiBest Male Pop Vocal PerformanceThis Time
John Legend
Track from: Evolver
[G.O.O.D. Music/Columbia]Writer: Kawan PratherBest Pop Collaboration With VocalsSea Of Heartbreak
Rosanne Cash & Bruce Springsteen
[Manhattan]Client: Rosanne CashBest Pop Instrumental PerformanceThrow Down Your Heart
Béla Fleck
Track from: Throw Down Your Heart: Tales From The Acoustic Planet, Vol. 3 — Africa Sessions
[Rounder]Writer: Béla FleckBest Pop Instrumental AlbumPotato Hole
Booker T. Jones
[Anti]Writer: Booker T. JonesBest Pop Vocal AlbumBreakthrough
Colbie Caillat
[Universal Republic Records]Songs: Fearless, Begin Again, What I Wanted to Say, I Never Told YouWriter: Kara DioGuardiAll I Ever Wanted
Kelly Clarkson
[RCA Records / 19 Recordings LLC./ S Records]Song: I Do Not Hook UpWriter: Kara DioGuardiFunhouse
Pink
[LaFace Records]Song: SoberWriter: Kara DioGuardiBest Traditional Pop Vocal AlbumMichael Bublé Meets Madison Square Garden
Michael Bublé
[143/Reprise]Song: I’ve Got the World on a StringWriter: Ted KoehlerYour Songs
Harry Connick, Jr.
[Columbia]Song: Who’s Sorry NowWriter: Harry RubyBest Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With VocalsUse Somebody
Kings Of Leon
[RCA Records]Writers: Jared Followill, Matthew Followill, Caleb Followill, Nathan FollowillBest Rock Instrumental PerformanceWarped Sister
Booker T. Jones
Track from: Potato Hole
[ANTI]Writer: Booker T. JonesBest Rock SongUse Somebody
Caleb Followill, Jared Followill, Matthew Followill & Nathan Followill, songwriters (Kings Of Leon)
[RCA Records]Writers: Jared Followill, Matthew Followill, Caleb Followill, Nathan FollowillBest Rock AlbumLive From Madison Square Garden
Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood
[Reprise/Duck]Songs: Them Changes (Miles), Sleeping in the Ground (Myers); Pearly Queen (Capaldi); Tell The Truth (Capaldi); No Face No Name, No Number (Capaldi); Dear Mr. Fantasy (Capaldi)Writers: Buddy Miles, Sammie Myers, Jim CapaldiBest Female R&B Vocal PerformanceGoin' Thru Changes
Ledisi
Track from: Turn Me Loose
[Verve Forecast]Writer: Ledisi YoungBest Male R&B Vocal PerformanceThe Point Of It All
Anthony Hamilton 
Track from: The Point Of It All
[So So Def]Writer: Bobby Ross AvilaBest R&B AlbumThe Point Of It All
Anthony Hamilton
[So So Def]Song: The Point of it AllWriter: Bobby Ross AvilaTestimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics
India.Arie
[Soulbird/Universal Republic]Songs: Ghetto (Ramsey), Yellow (Ramsey), Better Way (Barnes)Writers: Drew Ramsey, Cornelius BarnesTurn Me Loose
Ledisi
[Verve Forecast]Writer: Ledisi YoungUncle Charlie
Charlie Wilson
[Jive Records]Songs: Love Love Love (Boyd), Let You Go (Boyd), Back to Love (Fleurimond), What You Do To Me (Don’t Stop) (Nelkin)Writers: Luke Boyd, Farrah Fleurimond, Marc NelkinBest Contemporary R&B AlbumIntuition
Jamie Foxx
[J Records]Songs: Love Brings Change (Burwell), I Don’t Know (samples Passing Me By (Boone, Sebastian))Writers: Celester Burwell, Steve Boone, John Sebastian,Best Rap AlbumR.O.O.T.S.
Flo Rida
[Poe Boy/Atlantic]Song: Right RoundWriter: Bruno MarsThe Ecstatic
Mos Def
[Downtown Records]Song: HistoryWriter: Talib KweliBest Female Country Vocal PerformanceJust A Dream
Carrie Underwood
Track from: Carnival Ride
[Arista Nashville]Writer: Gordie SampsonBest Country Collaboration With VocalsStart A Band
Brad Paisley & Keith Urban
Track from: Play
[Arista Nashville]Writer: Ashley GorleyBest Country Instrumental PerformanceThe Crystal Merchant
The Greencards
Track from: Fascination
[Sugar Hill Records]Writer: Kym WarnerBest Country AlbumThe Foundation
Zac Brown Band
[Home Grown/Big Picture/Atlantic]Song: ToesWriter: Shawn MullinsTwang
George Strait
[MCA Nashville]Songs: Twang (Marvel, Lauderdale), I Gotta Get To You (Lauderdale)Writers: Jim Lauderdale, Kendell MarvelCall Me Crazy
Lee Ann Womack
[MCA Nashville]Songs: Either WayWriter: Kendell MarvelBest Contemporary Jazz AlbumSounding Point
Julian Lage
[Emarcy/Decca]Songs: The Informant (Thile, Fleck); Long Day, Short Night (Thile, Fleck)Writers: Chris Thile, Béla FleckBest Jazz Instrumental Album, Individual or GroupThe Bright Mississippi
Allen Toussaint
[Nonesuch]Song: SolitudeWriter: Eddie De LangeBest Tropical Latin AlbumBach In Havana
Tiempo Libre
[Sony Classical]Songs: Tu Conga Bach, Timbach, Fuga, Air On A G String, Clave In C Minor, Gavotte, Mi Orisha, Minuet In G, Olas De Yemaya, Baqueteo Con Bajo, Kyrie, BachapellaWriter: Jorge GomezBest Americana AlbumTogether Through Life
Bob Dylan
[Columbia]Song: My Wife’s Home TownWriter: Willie DixonElectric Dirt
Levon Helm
[Dirt Farmer Music/Vanguard Records]Songs: You Can’t Lose What You Ain’t Never Had (Morganfield), The Stuff You Gotta Watch (Morganfield), Heaven’s Pearls (Helm, Patscha, McBain, Isaacs, Leone)Writers: McKinley Morganfield, Amy Helm, Glenn Patscha, Fiona McBain, Byron Isaacs, Anythony LeoneWilco (The Album)
Wilco
[Nonesuch]
Writer: Jeff Tweedy, Glenn Kotche, Pat Sansone, John Stirratt, Mikael Jorgensen, Nels ClineBest Bluegrass AlbumCould We Get Any Closer?
Jim Lauderdale
[Sky Crunch Records]Writer: Jim LauderdaleThe Crow / New Songs For The Five-String Banjo
Steve Martin
[Rounder]Songs: Daddy Played the BanjoWriter: Gary ScruggsBest Traditional Blues AlbumA Stranger Here
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
[ANTI]Songs: Rambler's Blues (Johnson), Grinnin’ In Your Face (House)Writers: Lonnie Johnson, Son HouseRough & Tough
John Hammond
[Chesky Records]Songs: My Time After Awhile (Badger, Geddins) Slick Crown Vic (Hammond), Come To Find Out (Hammond)Writer: John Hammond, Ronald Badger, Robert GeddinsStomp! The Blues Tonight
Duke Robillard
[Stony Plain Records]Songs: Do Me Right (Fulson), Tore Up (Base/Turner)Writers: Lowell Fulson, Ike Turner, Ralph BassClient: Duke RobillardChicago Blues: A Living History
(Various Artists)
Larry Skoller, producer
[Raisin' Music]Songs: Feel Like Going Home (Morganfield), Sugar Sweet (Dixon), My Love Will Never Die (Dixon), One More Mile (Morganfield), The Healer (Rogers)Writers: McKinley Morganfield, Willie Dixon, Roy RogersBest Contemporary Blues AlbumBack To The River
Susan Tedeschi
[Verve Forecast]Songs: Back to the River (White), Talking About (Bramhall II)Writers: Tony Joe White, Doyle Bramhall IIAlready Free
The Derek Trucks Band
[Victor Records]Songs: Maybe This Time (Bramhall II), Get What You Deserve (Bramhall II), Our Love (Bramhall II)Writer: Doyle Bramhall IIBest Traditional Folk AlbumHigh Wide & Handsome: The Charlie Poole Project
Loudon Wainwright III
[2nd Story Sound Records]Songs: High Wide & Handsome (Wainwright III), Took My Gal Out Walkin (Wainwright III), I'm The man that Rode the Mule Round the World (Poole, Woodlieff), Bill Mason's Bride (Poole, Woodlieff), Goodbye Booze (Poole, Woodlieff), Mother's Last Farewell Kiss (Poole, Woodlieff),  If I Lose, I Don't Care (Poole, Woodlieff), Where The Whippoorwill is Whispering Goodnight (Poole, Woodlieff), Old and Only In The Way (Poole, Woodlieff), Way Up in NYC (Wainwright III), No Knees (Wainwright III), The Deal (Wainwright III), Charlie’s Last Song (Wainwright III), Rowena (Wainwright III), The Man in the Moon (Wainwright III)Writers: Loudon Wainwright III, Charlie Poole, Norman WoodliefBest Contemporary Folk AlbumTownes
Steve Earle
[New West Records]Writer: Townes Van Zandt (all songs)Best Zydeco Or Cajun Music AlbumAlligator Purse
Beausoleil Avec Michael Doucet
[Yep Roc Records]Songs: Rouler Et Tourner (Doucet), Carriere Zydeco (Bebe Carriere, Eraste Carriere), Little Darlin (Julie Miller), Bosco Stomp (Doucet), Theogene Creole (Doucet), Les Oignons (Doucet), Alligator Purse (Doucet), Valse A Thomas Ardoin (Doucet, Breaux)Writers: Michael Doucet, Bebe Carriere, Eraste Carriere, Julie Miller, Jimmy BreauxLay Your Burden Down
Buckwheat Zydeco
[Alligator]Songs: Time Goes By (Dural Jr., Fox), Ninth Place (Dural Jr., Fox), Don't Leave Me (Dural Jr., Fox), Throw Me Something Mister (Dural Jr.), Finding My Way Back Home (Dural Jr.)Writers:  Stanley Dural Jr., Ted FoxStripped Down
The Magnolia Sisters
[Arhoolie Records]Client: Ann SavoyLive At 2009 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Pine Leaf Boys
[MunckMix, Inc.]Writers: Wilson Savoy, Joel Savoy, Ann Savoy, Steve Riley, Cedric WatsonBest Contemporary World Music AlbumThrow Down Your Heart: Tales From The Acoustic Planet, Vol. 3 — Africa Sessions
Béla Fleck
[Rounder]Writer: Béla FleckBest Musical Show AlbumAin't Misbehavin'
Robert Sher, producer (Various, composer; Various, lyricist) (30th Anniversary Cast Recording With Ruben Studdard, Frenchie Davis & Others)
[Rhino]Songs: Mean to Me, I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a LetterWriter: Fred AhlertBest Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual MediaCadillac Records
(Various Artists)
[Music World Music/Columbia]Songs: I’m a Man aka Manish Boy (London/Morganfield), I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man (Dixon), My Babe (Dixon)Writers: Willie Dixon, McKinley Morganfield, Melvin LondonTrue Blood
(Various Artists)
[Elektra]Song: TwoWriter: Ryan AdamsBest Historical AlbumThe Complete Chess Masters (1950–1967)
Andy McKaie, compilation producer; Erick Labson, mastering engineer (Little Walter)
[Hip-O Select/Geffen Records]Songs: Shuffle (Morganfield); The following songs are all Willie Dixon: Too Late, I love You So (Oh Baby), Oh Baby, I Got to Find My Baby, Mercy Babe (My Babe), My Babe, Who, It’s Too Late Brother, My Baby is Sweeter, Crazy Mixed Up World, I Don’t Play, As Long As I Have You, I’m A Business Man, Dead Presidents, Southern FeelingWriters: Willie Dixon, McKinley MorganfieldMy Dusty Road
Scott Billington, Michael Creamer & Bill Nowlin, compilation producers; Doug Pomeroy, mastering engineer (Woody Guthrie)
[Rounder]Writer: Woody GuthrieWoodstock — 40 Years On: Back To Yasgur's Farm
Cheryl Pawelski, Mason Williams & Andy Zax, compilation producers; Dave Schultz, mastering engineer (Various Artists)
[Rhino]Song: FreedomWriter: Richie HavensBest Engineered Album, Non-ClassicalSwan Feathers
Richard Alderson, Chris Allen, Roman Klun, Lawrence Manchester, Rob Mounsey, Jay Newland & Gordie Sampson, engineers (Leslie Mendelson)
[Rykodisc]Client: Gordie SampsonProducer Of The Year, Non-ClassicalT Bone BurnettProducer: Moonalice (Moonalice)Producer and Writer: Secret, Profane & Sugarcane (Elvis Costello)Songs: Sulphar to Sugarcane, The Crooked LiarClient and Writer: T Bone BurnettBest Remixed Recording, Non-ClassicalDon't Believe In Love (Dennis Ferrer Objektivity Mix)
Dennis Ferrer, remixer (Dido)
[Arista]Client: Dennis FerrerBest Long Form Music VideoJohnny Cash's America
(Johnny Cash)
Robert Gordon & Morgan Neville, video directors; Robert Gordon & Morgan Neville, video producers
[Columbia/Legacy]Artist: Johnny Cash

There are far too many to mention, but our writers this past year made us mighty proud!Going Gold, we had songs on the following albums this year: John Legend’s Evolver, David Archuleta’s David Archuleta, Ludacris’s Theatre of the Mind, Keri Hilson’s In A Perfect World, George Straight’s Twang, and Whitney Houston’s I Look To You.Hitting Platinum, we had songs on the following albums this year: Britney Spears’ Circus, Rascal Flatts’ Unstoppable, Darius Rucker Learn To Live, Hannah Montana Soundtrack, Jamie Foxx’s Intuition, Zac Brown Band’s The Foundation, Pink’s Funhouse, and Kings of Leon’s Only By The Night

If you ever wondered what Iggy Pop might look like as a Lego character;well wonder no more. It seems that the manufacturers of Lego thought enough of the punk icon to cast him as a Lego character. No word though on whether it will be anatomically correct.

And speaking of the Ig, there's word that Iggy & Co. will keep The Stooges going after the recent death of guitarist Ron Asheton. Iggy and Ron's brother Scott will continue performing with James Williamson, Raw Power era Stooge guitarist and co-writer of that seminal album's songs, and Mike Watt, who joined the band on their last several tours (both are of course also Bug writers). The band will feature Raw Power and other songs from that era which have not been performed by the original Raw Power Stooges line up in over 30 years. The landmark album, mixed by Pop's friend David Bowie, has been cited by Nirvana's Kurt Cobain and many other rock stars as their favorite album and is considered one of the most influential in rock history. Pop, who has had a largely successful solo career for the past 30 years, has just released a jazz-influenced album, Preliminaires (Virgin Records), inspired by French writer Michel Houellebecq's novel, The Possibility of an Island.

That's right!  Miranda Lambert knows what she's doing as Revolution, her third album, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart. This makes her one of three country artists in SoundScan history to have each of their first three albums enter at No.1 on that chart. She also knows her songs and songwriters as she elected to include a few from the Bug catalog on her latest effort. Julie Miller's song "Somewhere Trouble Don't Go" and John Prine's "That's The Way The World Goes Round" both made the cut. Check out the album and hear her fresh take on these two gems. 

Master singer/songwriter Richie Havens recently had his song "Hands Of Time" used to full-effect in the premiere episode of NBC's new drama series "Trauma".  The show centers around paramedics and their weekly adventures in the city of San Francisco.  Richie is touring most of the eastern seaboard throughout the rest of the year, and don't forget that Richie also recorded a new version of "Freedom" for the "Taking Woodstock" soundtrack to the Ang Lee film by the same name.

Jay Farrar (of Son Volt) & Ben Gibbard (of Death Cab For Cutie) penned 12 songs to be featured in One Fast Move or I'm Gone: Kerouac's Big Sur - an ode to Beat author Jack Kerouac. The 12-song set will be released October 20 by F-Stop/Atlantic and will serve as the soundtrack to a Kerouac documentary of the same name.

Alex Gimeno, the mastermind behind the turntables of Ursula 1000, has seen a lot of recent activity with his songs. "Kinda Kinky" and "Kaboom" are currently playing in the trailers for ABC's new and hugely successful show "Modern Family", while "Riviera Rendezvous" will be featured in the new ad spots for Grand Marnier liqueur. Cheers and listen responsibly!

Jorge Gomez of the much beloved and Grammy-Winning Cuban Timba group Tiempo Libre has something to celebrate. His song "Para Ti" was just covered by Joshua Bell for his new album "At Home with Friends" which was just released on Sony Classical. Not to be left out, Bug writer Chris Thile's co-written song with Edgar Meyer, "Look Away", and the Sam Bush, Mike Marshall, Edgar Meyer co-written song "Maybe So" also made the album.

2K Games/2K Sports, creator of last year's #1 selling and #1 rated NBA videogame NBA 2K9, are back on the court this season with NBA 2K10. Just released on October 6th, it looks to be another championship season for this game and Bug Music writers Bruno Mars and Tonyo Szabo (of the Hungarian band The Moog) have a lot to cheer about as their songs are included in the game. Mars' songs "Wavin' Flag" by K'naan and "One Day" by Matisyahu are included as is The Moog's "Joyclad Armies". This particular song is from the band's new release Razzmatazz Orfeum out now on MuSick Recordings.

Hitco writer Poo Bear (Jason Boyd) helped to pen Chris Brown's new 1st single "I Can Transform Ya" (Transformer) featuring Lil' Wayne & Swizz Beatz.

They get songs featured on NBC's "Mercy" and the new Miramax film "Extract".

"Who's Got Your Money" appears in two TV episodes.

The Twilight Saga sequel showcases "Slow Life" in the upcoming film and soundtrack.

Bug Music has 94 songs on 36 of the top 75 country albums this week!

Jim Dyke began his association with Bug Music after enjoying much UK chart success with artists Judy Cheeks, Maya the Tamper and Flip N Fill feat. Kelly Llorenn. Jim's Bug Music catalogue activity includes'I Don't Care' by The Bratz (2005); 'Say It Again', Marie Digby's debut single from Unfold on Hollywood Records (2008); and 'In A Heartbeat', the new single from Sandra (the mysterious voice on Enigma) (2009). His most recent release, 'Throwin' Rocks At The Moon,' is the debut single from Rachel Millman's release 'If I Believe' on Gila Enterprises LLC / KeyMedia Group (2009). In addition to these successes, Dyke has just finished mixing his newest project,'FREAK', by Freakboy featuring Maya and anticipates a 2010 release.

Bob Schneider will rock your ass off! - that's what his website says, and we concur, and if you're not sure, then you need to listen to his latest effort 'Lovely Creatures' released Sept. 29th (Kirtland Records). Bob will be taping a performance for the Rachael Ray show which will air during the week of October 19th.You can find our more about Bob, his music and his new release by checking out www.bobschneider.ning.com

Bug writer Loudon Wainwright III writes his tribute to Charlie Poole (also a Bug writer) with 'High Wide & Handsome, The Charlie Poole Project'. Released Aug. 18th on 2nd Story Sound Records. Billed as 'A Grand Gathering of Songs Both Old and Original' Vols. 1 & 2; Loudon Wainwright III revisits The Life, Times and Recorded Legacy of Legendary Singer and Banjo Picker Charlie Poole (1892-1931).Loudon and producer Dick Connette immersed themselves in the Poole canon and they also penned nine new songs about the life and times of the country music pioneer. Connette and Wainwright drew inspiration from Kinney Rorrer's definitive biography of Poole, 'Ramblin' Blues', and even visited Poole's hometown of Spray, NC. Check out Loudon's website for more info. http://www.lwiii.com/

Bug writer Mike Judge, the man behind 'Beavis and Butt-Head', 'King of the Hill' and the cult smash film 'Office Space' woos both fans & critics with his new film 'Extract' (Miramax) starring Jason Bateman as vanilla factory owner, Joel Reynold. The comedy also stars Mila Kunis (of That 70's Show), and Ben Affleck. Judge returns to the fertile territory of the American workspace, rotating his perspective away from the white collar cubicle warriors of 'Office Space' and towards a blue collar boss; a small business owner who employs an odd cast of losers, loners and misfits in his vanilla flavor extract factory.

Ellie Greenwich, author of classic pop songs such as 'Chapel of Love','River Deep, Mountain High,' 'Da Doo Ron Ron,' 'Hanky Panky,' '(And) Then HeKissed Me,' and 'Be My Baby', has died at the age of 68. As one of themajor influences of 1960's Pop music, Ellie's songs earned her over 25 goldand platinum records during her outstanding career. She will be rememberedand missed deeply by all of us here at Bug/Windswept.

Playing for scares - Bug writer Tyler Bates just finished the score for Rob Zombie's new film 'Halloween 2' (Dimension Films). The score soundtrack is currently available on Tyler's new label imprint, Abattoir Recordings, distributed by Koch/E1 (digital only release). The physical CD release will coincide with the DVD release of the film.Tyler provided the score to last years successful 'Watchmen' film, and is also the composer for the highly praised Showtime series 'Californication', currently scoring season 3.

'It Might Get Loud', the new documentary film from Davis Guggenheim on the influences and careers of renown guitarists Jimmy Page, Jack White and The Edge centering around a one-day 'summit,' turns up the volume on Bug writers Muddy Waters and Son House. The film highlights Son House and his song 'Grinnin' in Your Face' when Jack White plays it for Jimmy Page and The Edge, proclaiming it to be his all time favorite song! Later in the film Jimmy Page plays some music that inspired him and one of the songs highlighted is Muddy Waters' 'I Can't Be Satisfied'.

What do Bug writers Ryan Adams and Okkervil River frontman Will Sheff have in common? Well for one, they're both working with Norah Jones on her forthcoming guitar-driven record which also features some impressive behind-the-scenes players including producer Jacquire King (Tom Waits, Be Your Own Pet, Modest Mouse), drummer Joey Waronker (Beck), keyboardist James Poyser (D'Angelo, The Roots, Erykah Badu), and Smokey Hormel (Johnny Cash). The as yet-untitled new LP is due this November, so keep your eyes and ears peeled.

Ledisi cuts 'loose' on her sophomore album - 'Turn Me Loose' (Verve Forecast) and debuts at #1 on Billboard's R&B/HipHop chart.Read more about Ledisi and her new album at: www.Ledisi.com

Kara DioGuardi has four songs on Colbie Caillat's new album, Breakthrough, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Top 200! The 'Bubbly' singer/songwriter's sophomore album sold 106,000 copies in its first week, giving Caillat her first topper. Bruno Mars and Kara DioGuardi each have 2 songs on Cobra Starship's latest album which debuted at #4 on both Billboard's Top 200 and Soundscan's Sales chart. They co-wrote the title track, 'Hot Mess' and Kara also co-wrote the first single, 'Good Girls Gone Bad', which is currently in the top 10 on Billboard's Hot 100 and is a platinum digital single. Bruno also co-wrote 'Living in the Sky with Diamonds.'Bruno also has 4 songs on the upcoming Sean Kingston album Tomorrow which will be released September 22nd on Epic Records. The songs include: 'Tomorrow' (slated to be the next (3rd) single) 'Island Queen,' 'My Girlfriend,' and 'Twist Ya Around.' In addition to these hot new releases, Bruno Mars co-wrote the current single 'Get Sexy' for the UK girl group, Sugababes. The song is blowing up on UK radio and is currently #2 on the UK Sales chart, right behind Jay-Z!

Giles Martin, son of Sir George Martin (and both clients of Bug Music), took the lead in producing legendary Beatles tracks for the hugely anticipated Beatles 'Rockband.' Giles had a huge hand in the development and realization of the new interactive video game which premiered 09/09/09. This is the first time that the Beatles have allowed their songs & likenesses to be used in this way. Read more about Giles and his approach to the project as well as his thoughts on the new remasters, his involvement with the musical 'LOVE' and his dad.

Bug writer Danny Barnes and his gang of musicians known collectively as The Bad Livers had their song 'Death Trip' used on the Aug. 2nd episode of HBO's highly successful series 'True Blood'. The song appears on the band's 2000 Sugar Hill release 'Blood & Mood'. Known for their mutated Bluegress, their sound blows any illusions of traditionalism out the window. Some have described them as being Neo-Traditional/Alternative/Punk/and Progressive Bluegrass. Don't try to figure it out; just enjoy it.

Bug writer Marc Nelkin co-wrote indie artist Chloe Temtchine's "Girlfriend." The song was featured in the music critic's USA Today playlist for the week of 7/27/09. You can check out the list at http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/reviews/2009-07-27-playlist_N.htm. Marc also co-wrote indie artist Rachel Millman's new single, "Throwin' Rocks At The Moon." In addition to this recent U.S. activity, Marc Nelkin has made a splash overseas with G.E.M., one of Hong Kong's top female pop artists who recently topped her country's charts with his song "All About U." Marc's past successes include "What You Do To Me" on Charlie Wilson's most recent release, which debuted at #1 on the Top 200 Billboard Chart earlier this year, three cuts on Corinne Bailey Rae's multi-platinum self-titled debut album, as well as the single "Say It Again" off of Marie Digby's debut album"Unfold" (Hollywood Records).

Girl in a Coma wakes to find themselves at Bug. Hailing from the Lone Star State, the band has just released their sophomore effort, Trio B.C., on Joan Jett's Blackheart Records. Trio B.C., the follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut, includes tracks produced by Grammy-Award-winning producer Greg Collins (U2 and Gwen Stefani) and Gabriel Gonzalez (formerly of Sparta and one of the producers of the band's debut Both Before I'm Gone). Joan Jett and Kenny Laguna produced two special tracks on the CD, "Vino," and "Joannie in the City,"; a snarling, post-punk rock cut featuring Joan Jett on guitar along with Jett's distinct vocals on background.

"500 Days Of Summer" (Fox Searchlight) - there's still time to catch what critics are calling "An unpredictable film from start to finish, this will be the breakout picture of the summer due to its charm, originality and lovely performances." It's your classic scenario of Boy meets Girl. Boy falls in love. Girl doesn't!" With great performances from Joseph Gordon-Levitt & Zooey Deschanel. The film utilizes the Spoon song "The Infinite Pet" from their 2005 release"Gimme Fiction" (Merge).

We congratulate Bug writer Dean Fertita on the success of his new Nashville-based band The Dead Weather which also includes Jack White, Alison Mosshart, and "Lil'" Jack Lawrence. The band has just released their debut album "Horehound" on Third Man/Warner Bros. Records to great reviews and great sales out of the gate. The album debuted at an impressive #6 in the Billboard Album Charts, #1 on the Alternative Charts, #2 on the Rock Charts, and lucky #13 on the overall Internet Sales Chart. The band is in the midst of a national tour and have been playing to sold out venues around the country. Dean has several co-writes on the album including the current single and video "Treat Me Like Your Mother".

We'd like to congratulate Bug/Windswept writers Jim Lauderdale and Kendell Marvel for getting their songs included on the new George Strait album 'Twang' released August 11th. Jim Lauderdale & Kendell Marvel co-wrote the title track 'Twang' while Jim also contributed the song 'I Gotta Get To You'. The album debuts this week at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart and the Top Country Albums chart.

Seven really is a magic number! That's the number of songs Bug/Windswept writers have on the new Brad Paisley album "American Saturday Night (Arista Records). The album debuted at #1 on Billboard's Country Album Chart, and #2 on its Top 200 Album Chart and sold an impressive 130,000 units in its first week of release. Songs on the album include the title track "American Saturday Night", "Catch All The Fish" and "Then" by Ashley Gorley, Tim Owens' "I Hope That's Me", "The Pants", and "You Do the Math" and Robben's Ford's co-write "Oh Yeah, You're Gone".

"Surf's Up at Bug!" That's right. We are proud to announce that Bug Music has just acquired the worldwide rights to the early Beach Boys hits "Surfer Girl", "Surfin' Safari" and "Surfin'". Both "Surfin'" and "Surfin' Safari" (Mike Love/Brian Wilson) appeared on the band's debut album "Surfin' Safari" (Capitol) in 1962. "Surfin'" was the band's debut single, and while it was a bit of a national hit for them, it also showed the garage-like quality of the band, and afforded listeners a glimpse of the group as they sounded when they were still a "true band" in the studio.

Bug Music is proud to announce the signing of Tim & Bob. Growing up in Peoria, Illinois, Tim was raised on R&B through his father's band and was heavily influenced by pop radio, while Bob's deep roots in the church brought a wealth of gospel music to the duo. They initially got their start in Detroit, moved to Atlanta and honed their chops under the tutelage of Dallas Austin. They developed their signature sound and production style and have been some of the most in-demand and consistent urban producers in the last 16 years. Songs of theirs have appeared on more than 170 million albums and they continue to produce hits for some of the music industry's most accomplished artists. Some of the artists they've worked with include TLC, Monica, Boyz II Men, Sisqo, Jennifer Lopez, Brian McKnight, Nas, Musiq Soulchild, Brandy, Mya, Usher, Jamie Foxx and many others. Tim & Bob say "we have been fortunate to work with some of the best. One of the lessons we learned from Dallas, L.A Reid, and Jimmy and Terry is that those producers always defined what a radio hit is and what constitutes an album track, and they encouraged us to always experiment, but create our signature sound". We are very happy to be working with them.

I say "Platinum", you say "Kings". That's what we're all screaming over here as we congratulate the Kings Of Leon on their milestone achievement of reaching Platinum status on their latest release "Only By The Night"; (RCA). They were nominated last year for three Grammys and won their first for "Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals"; for their song "Sex On Fire."

The Kings of Leon's new label partnership with Bug Music and 429 Records, (a subsidiary of the Savoy Label Group) released the upcoming album "Some Kind of Salvation" by the Nashville-based band The Features on July 28th in the US and it's slated for August 28th in Australia and September in the UK and Europe. The inventive new label venture allows the Kings Of Leon to sign and develop artists with Bug Music. The Features have long been supported by the Kings of Leon, having previously opened tours for them in the UK and US in 2007 and they are set to open more shows this fall in the D.C. and New York areas. The critically lauded band recently performed at Bonnaroo and is happy to be releasing this new record. It was produced by Grammy-Award winning Jacquire King (Modest Mouse, Kings Of Leon, Tom Waits, Sea Wolf) and Brian Carter at his Paradox Production facility in Murfreesboro, TN. The band features Matthew Pelham, Roger Dabbs, Mark Bond and Rollum Haas.

Bug writer, artist, producer Buddy Miller leads the Americana Music Association award nominations with five nods. The eighth annual Americana Honors & Awards show will be held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN. on Sept. 17th and hosted by Bug writer Jim Lauderdale. 
Bug writer/artist Alejandro Escovedo has three nominations, including one for Album of the Year, and one for Artist of the Year. Best of luck to all of our writers!

George Thorogood & The Destroyers return to Capitol/EMI for their new release “The Dirty Dozen” (July 28th), a new album paring new studio recordings with fan favorites & rarities.
Being a huge fan of vinyl, George sequenced the release just like an LP – just as they would be placed for a classic vinyl album. So the new recordings are Side One and the rare tracks make up Side Two. 
Launching the new recordings on Side One is Willie Dixon’s swaggering “Tail Dragger”, vividly illustrated by Thorogood’s vocals and guitar, Also on Side One are Thorogood’s new recordings of Muddy Waters’ “Born Lover” and the Wendell Holmes/Holmes Brothers’ song “Run Myself Out of Town” (Gardenville Music & Foggy Day Music). Side Two’s fan favorites open with Thorogood’s previously out-of-print guitar and sax-propelled take on Willie Dixon and Howlin’ Wolf’s “Howlin’ For My Baby”.  Check this one out!

Activision’s hugely successful videogame “Guitar Hero” is about to release “Guitar Hero 5” in the fall, and there will be music from 85 different bands included. A few of those making the cut are Bug Windswept artists Kings of Leon and Sunny Day Real Estate. So go n’ get your “guitar on”. 

Drew Barrymore’s directorial debut film “Whip It” (adapted from the book “Derby Girl” by Shauna Cross) with Ellen Page & Juliette Lewis looks like they’ll be using a handful of songs from the Bug catalog including the Turbo Fruits (Jonas Stein of Be Your Own Pet’s new band), Peaches song “Boys Wanna Be Her”, the Dept. of Eagles song “In Ear Park” and the Young MC’s classic “Know How” (Matt Dike). The film centers around an indie-rock loving misfit from Bodeen, Texas, who finds a way of dealing with her small-town misery after she discovers a roller derby league in nearby Austin. The Fox/Searchlight film is slated for release on October 9th.

Bug/Windswept writer Bruno Mars co-wrote the new Matisyahu single “One Day”.  The song hit the digital stores on June 16th, and the album is due to follow on August 25th. (Epic).  A few radio stations have already started to play it and response has been great! Hard to explain unless you’ve seen him before, but Matisyahu is serious about what he does, and what he does is rap about traditional Judaism over reggae beats in a dancehall style directly from Jamaica. 
Expect more of that on his upcoming release.

Ang Lee’s new film “Taking Woodstock” (Focus Features) starring Liv Schreiber, Emile Hirsch, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan is a comedy about a young man working at his parents motel in the Catskills who inadvertently sets in motion the generation-defining concert in the summer of 1969. As you can imagine, there will be a lot of music in the film, and we have several songs included. Bug writer, artist Richie Havens who was one of the pivotal performers at the original Woodstock recorded a new version of his classic song “Freedom” for the film.  He also contributes “Handsome Johnnie” & “High Flying Bird”. The Ellie Greenwich/Jeff Berry classic “Do Wah Diddy Diddy” performed by Manfred Mann is in the film, as is Arthur Lee & Love’s classic song “The Red Telephone” and Bobby Darin’s version of the Tim Hardin classic “If I Were A Carpenter”. 
The film is slated for release August 14th. 

Debuting at #1 a few weeks ago, the song “Bonkers” by Dizzee Raascal and Armand Van Helden is a massive single in the U.K. After spending 2 weeks atop the U.K. singles chart, the song is currently #4 and is the #1 most downloaded song in Europe at the moment. 
Look for Universal Records to be putting it out throughout the world very shortly. 

Bruno is the mockumentary comedy film produced, cowritten and starring Sacha Baron Cohen as the eponymous flamboyant gay Austrian fashion journalist. This film is the third based on characters from Da Ali G Show, following Ali G Indahouse and Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. The Trailers and ads will feature the classic Walter Murphy song “A Fifth Of Beethoven” as performed by Count Dee’s Hit Explosion. This Universal offering is slated for release on July 10th. 

The beautiful Mort Dixon, Ray Henderson standard “Bye Bye Blackbird” can be heard in the upcoming Michael Mann film “Public Enemies” starring Johnny Depp (as John Dillinger) & Christian Bale (as Melvin Purvis).  Also starring Channing Tatum, Giovanni Ribisi & Billy Crudup. The film follows the true life story of how the Feds tried to take down the notorious American gangsters John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson and Pretty Boy Floyd during a booming crime wave in the 1930s.The Universal film opened nationwide July 1st

Why do I have this sudden urge to shop at Target? -
It must have something to do with Lindsey Ray’s song “Brand New Day” which is keeping everybody smiling (and singing along).  The song continues to lead this latest campaign and shows no signs of slowing down.  Wait until you hear Lindsey’s other songs!  If you’d like to find out more about her and her music, you can go to www.myspace.com/lindseyraymusic

Cat Power’s version of the Michael Hurley song “Werewolf” can be heard in the new film “Powder Blue” starring Jessica Biel, Forest Whitaker, Ray Liotta, Kris Kristofferson and Patrick Swayze.  It has a short theatrical run this month and then will be released on DVD.  Anyone who is familiar with Chan Marshall’s song interpretations will want to catch this one!

Someone was definitely hung up on using BugWindswept songs in the new Warner Bros. feature “The Hangover” starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zack Galifianakis, and Heather Graham and opening June 5th.   From the director of “Old School” comes this comedy about a bachelor party in Vegas gone horribly wrong.  During all the shenanigans can be heard five classic songs from our catalog including:
”Yeah” (Sean Garrett) performed by Usher featuring Ludacris & Lil Jon,
“Fever” (Eddie Cooley/John Davenport) performed by The Cramps,
“Iko Iko” (Barbara Ann Hawkins/Rosa Lee Hawkins/Marie Johnson) performed by The Belle Stars,
“What Do You Say?” written & performed by Mickey Avalon, and the song
“Right Round” (Bruno Mars) performed by Flo Rida plays during the end-credits.
Whew!  Beer goggles anyone?

The NBC hit show “30 Rock” will be using the Pete Ham/Tom Evans penned Badfinger classic “Without You”.  The song was made a hit by Harry Nilsson in 1971 when his “Nilsson Schmilsson” album was released.  It featured a highly emotional arrangement and soaring vocals to match.  It’s a performance that was rewarded with a Grammy Award.

The successful AMC original show “Breaking Bad” with Bryan Cranston will be using Townes Van Zandt’s song “Waiting 'Round to Die” in an upcoming episode.  In more TVZ news, we want to let everyone know about the new Steve Earle release entitled “Townes” (New West Records).  It features Earle covering fifteen Townes Van Zandt classics.  They were close friends, and Earle once said of Townes “he’s the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that.”  Townes responded with “I've met Bob Dylan's bodyguards and if Steve Earle thinks he can stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table, he's sadly mistaken.”

New releases from Fischerspooner & Peaches.  Bug Music is proud to announce the release of these two hotly anticipated records.  Both are artists who continue to rapidly grow and develop into household names.  Fischerspooner’s new album “Entertainment” (Worlds Fair) is quickly finding its audience and new fans, while Peaches “I Feel Cream” (XL Recordings) is really exploding her fanbase around the world.  We wish both artists much success with their new albums & tours.  Check out the tracks “The Best Revenge” on Fischerspooner’s new album, and Peaches “Talk To Me”, and you’ll have a good idea of what everybody’s talking about.

Ini Kamoze’s anthem “Here Comes the Hotstepper” appears in the new Buick/General Motors ads.

Judd Apatow’s new film “Funny People” (Universal Pictures and Columbia Pictures) starring Adam Sandler, Seth Rogan and Jason Schwartzman and releasing July 31, will feature the Ted Koehler & Howard Arlen standard “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea” in its end-titles. 

The current trailers for the film feature the Wilco song “Nothing’severgonnastandinmyway (Again)”, while the band's song “Jesus, etc…” (from “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot”) can be heard in the film. 
And speaking of Wilco, their new album “Wilco (the album)” will be released June 30th (Nonesuch Records).

Kara DioGuardi co-writes Idol finale song, "No Boundaries." Also co-writes the song, "Not Meant To Be," for Transformers follow-up film.

Native Tongue writer/artist Gin Wigmore had her song “Hallelujah” featured over a montage scene in the season finale of “One Tree Hill” which aired May 18.  Her EP “Extended Play” is out now, and her full-length debut on Motown/Island should be out before the end of the year.

We’d like to take a moment to mention one of our favorite writers and artists, Mr. Peter Case. Peter is rebounding from his recent emergency open-heart surgery, and like so many musicians, he doesn’t have health insurance. Though Peter is on the road to recovery, he is, in his own words, “in deep.” As the publishers and caretakers of Peter’s music, we’d like to invite you to revisit his rich catalog of songs and, if you’d like to request it in its entirety, just let us know and we’ll send you a flash drive with the entire catalog for your listening and licensing pleasure. We want to do whatever we can to ensure that these songs get heard and get used, so just let us know how we can help. If you’re interested in donating money directly to help offset Peter’s medical bills, you can check out http://www.hiddenlovemedicalrelief.com/

One of Nashville's best kept secrets is secret no more. Welcome to our new award-winning writer and producer. Bug Music has entered into a publishing agreement with award-winning producer and songwriter Carson Chamberlain. Under the terms of the deal, Bug Music will represent future songs as well as Chamberlain’s chart-topping country music songwriting catalogue featuring his #1 hit songs “Love’s Got A Hold On You,” Everything I Love” and “Between The Devil and Me” recorded by Alan Jackson, “The Best Day” by George Strait and “Country Ain’t Country” by Travis Tritt. As a producer, Chamberlain has worked on hit singles for Mark Wills “I Do (Cherish You),” “Don’t Laugh at Me,” and “Wish You Were Here,” all #1 songs from his platinum certified album “Wish You Were Here”. Chamberlain also produced Billy Currington’s sophomore album, garnering #1 singles with “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right” and “Good Directions” from the platinum selling album “Doin’ Somethin’ Right.”

We’ve got three songs in the new Zac Efron, Matthew Perry film “17 Again”. Spoon’s song “The Underdog”, Fergie’s “Fergalicious” (Juanita Monroe, Fatimah Shaheed) and the Young MC’s late 80’s staple “Bust A Move” (Matt Dike).

Dave Derby of Gramercy Arms enlightens commercial and NBC show 'Chuck'. Bug writer Dave Derby (of the band Gramercy Arms) has his band's song “Looking At the Sun” in two places at once as it’s appearing in the new Lenscrafters commercial and in an episode of the NBC show “Chuck”. Check out the band's self-titled release on Cheap Lullaby Records. You can hear the song right here, right now!

Exene Cervenka enters into admin deal for new album and future songs. Exene Cervenka is an American musician, writer, and artist, most famous as the co-lead vocalist of the Los Angeles punk rock band X, and the American Roots band The Knitters. She is currently putting the finishing touches on her new solo album (Bloodshot Records Summer ’09.), and has just entered into an administration agreement with Bug for her new album and future songs. She recently came by the Bug offices to sign her deal and brighten our day.

Joan Jett brings her catalog & Blackheart Records to Bugmusic. Bug inks deal with Joan Jett and Blackheart Records – we are incredibly happy to announce that Joan Jett and Blackheart Records have joined the Bug/Windswept family. We now administer all of Joan’s renowned publishing catalog, including her influential work featuring “Bad Reputation” and “I Hate Myself for Loving You.” We will also represent Blackheart Records Group masters non-exclusively for synchronization opportunities along with pursuing ongoing creative collaborations with Blackheart Records artists under the Bug Music umbrella. The Blackheart Records roster currently includes Girl in a Coma, The Dollyrots, The Eyeliners, The Cute Lepers, and The Vacancies. As a founding member of The Runaways, Jett wrote and co-wrote much of the band’s music during their four year, five album career. Following the break-up of the Runaways, Jett produced The Germs’ highly influential and only studio recording “(GI).” That same year, she began pursuing her solo career. In 1980, following the universal rejection of her debut solo album, Jett released the then self-titled record on the Blackheart Records label, an outlet formed by Jett and manager Kenny Laguna. The follow-up, “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” would go on to top the Billboard charts and become a rock n’ roll staple. Over the course of her career, Jett has charted nine Top 40 singles from eight platinum and gold albums which include her own compositions as well as renditions of “I Love Rock N’ Roll” and “Crimson and Clover.” Jett has worked with The Gits, Peaches, Bikini Kill and Paul Westerberg among others and has been named one of the 100 Greatest Guitar Players of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine.

#1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 6 weeks is something to celebrate. So much so, we've signed him again. Bug/Windswept writer Bruno Mars (co-writer of FloRida’s “Right Round”) recently came by the Bug offices to accept his plaque commemorating reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for 6 weeks! We also took the opportunity to extend Bruno's contract. We're looking forward to working with Bruno more in the future.

His song, 'It's America' performed by Rodney Atkins tops the Country Song chart. Windswept writer Angelo Petraglia currently has the #1 Country song (2 weeks in a row now) “It’s America” on Rodney Atkins new album by the same title on Curb Records.

We will miss him. After fighting a long battle with throat cancer, Stephen Bruton passed away Saturday morning, May 9, 2009. He was 60 years old. The immensely talented songwriter/producer/singer/guitarist was highly respected in many music circles. As a songwriter, Bruton’s songs were recorded by musical icons including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Jimmy Buffett, Patty Loveless, Willie Nelson, Martina McBride, The Highwaymen and long-time musical companion Kris Kristofferson for whom he played guitar for nearly 40 years. Stephen also toured with Bonnie Raitt for several years. As a producer, Bruton worked with artists such as Alejandro Escovedo, Chris Smither, Marcia Ball, Hal Ketchum, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Storyville. He passed away peacefully at the home of his childhood friend T Bone Burnett. Burnett who has recently been producing a new film entitled Crazy Heart, enlisted Bruton to produce the music for the film. Bruton was able to complete the project just prior to his passing. He will be greatly missed by the Bug family and those that knew him and his music.

Paste & Blenders 'Best of 2008' includes numerous from the roster including: Paste #48 R.E.M.'s 'Acelerate' (Warner Bros.) (features the Scott McCaughey co-write 'Airliner') #44 Kathleen Edwards 'Asking For Flowers' (Zoe/Rounder) #17 Bonnie 'Prince' Billy (a.k.a. Will Oldham) 'Lie Down In The Light' (Drag City) #15 Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds 'Dig, Lazarus Dig!!! (ANTI/Epitaph) #12 of Montreal 'Skeletal Lamping' (Polyvinyl) #5 Okkervil River - 'The Stand Ins' (Merge) #1 She & Him - 'Volume One' (Merge) (Honorable mention as Bug writer/artist/musician/producer M. Ward collaborated with, & produced Zooey Deschanel's #1 album) Blender #33 Hayes Carll - 'Trouble In Mind' (Lost Highway) #31 Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds - 'Dig, Lazarus Dig!!!' (ANTI/Epitaph) #16 Be Your Own Pet - 'Get Awkward' (Eclectic Peace) # 7 of Montreal 'Skeletal Lamping' (Polyvinyl)

Bug Music is now the proud owner of the Perma Music catalog which consists of numerous scores and songs composed by the late Ronald Stein, a true innovator in motion picture scoring. Stein’s unique and sometimes avant garde scores graced such films as Attack of the 50 Foot Woman, The Rain People and Francis Ford Coppola’s Dementia 13. Most of the scores feature full 110 piece orchestras and provide Bug and its newly acquired subsidiary Selectracks with a top-of-the line original music library.

Influenced by the Rolling Stones just as much as the Beatles, and Bowie just as much as Cheap Trick, the Stone Temple Pilots have been labeled everything from Hard Rock, Alternative, Pop and Grunge, to Pop Rock and Post-Grunge. We just think they ROCK! And frontman Scott Weiland's writing has been called brooding & intense. Dramatic and bittersweet and of course rousing. We think that Weiland & Co. are all of these things and more, and we're proud to be working with Scott and representing his interest in the STP catalogue.

Bug Music's Bruno Mars has co-written and co-produced (with Rodney Jerkins) the upcoming Brandy single, 'Long Distance' (Epic Records). The single was just released and is available on iTunes, while the album, entitled 'Human', will be released on Dec. 9th. Brandy recently had an on-air performance of the song on MTV's The Hills, and performed it on The Tyra Banks show on Nov. 26th.

Bug Music just signed a new publishing agreement with Kevin Barnes, primary songwriter for Athens, GA-based indie-pop group OF MONTREAL. This new deal extends his existing agreement with Bug. When asked to comment, Kevin said: 'I'm super psyched to renew my Bug deal. The future tastes like golden dragons!' The band's latest Polyvinyl release 'Skeletal Lamping' is making many of the critics year-end lists, and the bands song 'A Sentence of Sorts in Kongsvinger' will be featured in an upcoming series of TV spots for Comcast Cable Communications.

besides the fact that Bug Music & ArtHouse Entertainment writer Kara DioGuardi has two co-writes on the new Tom Jones release "24 Hours" (S-Curve). This new album is getting Tom some of his best reviews & notices ever. The songs are "Give A Little Love" and "Never". Check it out!

Bottom of the 9th, and the heavy hitters of Hitco are up to bat. Before this year closes, we see that Sean Garrett, Jason Boyd and Patrick “9th Wonder” Douthit have a total of three songs on the new Ludacris release “Theater Of The Mind” (DTP Records) out now. Sean’s song “What Them Girls Like” is the first single.

Alan Gordon We here at Bug/Windswept are very sad to announce the passing on November 22nd of classic songwriter Alan Gordon, who along with songwriting partner Gary Bonner, penned Happy Together by the Turtles. Happy Together stayed on top of the Billboard charts for three weeks in 1967 and was named one of the Top 50 Songs of the 20th Century by BMI in 1999. Mr. Alan Gordon also co-wrote other chart- toppers such as, She'd Rather Be With Me by the Turtles and Celebrate by Three Dog Night. He also wrote, on his own,My Heart Belongs to Me, for Barbara Streisand. Mr. Gordon's songs have been recorded by a very diverse and talented litany of artists, including Bobby Darin, Alice Cooper, The Righteous Brothers, Petula Clark, Helen Reddy, Judy Collins, Mel Torme, Simple Plan and Frank Zappa. Ron Asheton The music world was stunned and struck severely a few weeks ago by the untimely and tragic passing of Mr. Ron Asheton, the seminal and hugely influential guitarist of the Stooges. Ron Asheton, along with brother Scott, bassist Dave Alexander and iconic vocalist Iggy Pop founded the Stooges in 1967 and had recently re-formed to great acclaim. The following quote from the Los Angeles Times sums it up best: "In many ways Ron was the heart of the Stooges, and the Stooges were the creators of punk rock," Paul Trynka, author of the 2007 biography "Iggy Pop: Open Up and Bleed," said Thursday. 'If you don't understand Ron, you don't understand the Stooges, and if you don't understand the Stooges, you don't understand punk rock." We understand. Rest in Peace, sir.

The Lew Pollack/Ray Gilbert song "That's A Plenty" (Lew Pollack Music) from the Fred Ahlert catalog appears in the new Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett film "The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button". The film centers around the story of Benjamin Button, a man who starts aging backwards with bizarre consequences.

The Lenny Kaye/Patti Smith song "Till Victory" can be heard in the new Gus Van Sant film "Milk" starring Sean Penn & Josh Brolin. The story of California's first openly gay elected official, Harvey Milk, a San Francisco supervisor who was assassinated along with Mayor George Moscone by San Francisco Supervisor Dan White has been drawing great reviews for Penn's portrayal of Milk.

Bug writer Bruno Mars wrote the song "Again" which is performed by Natasha Bedingfield in the new film "Confessions Of A Shopaholic" starring Isla Fisher.

The High Strung's song "The Luck You Got" is currently featured in the new TGI Friday's commercials which features everyone's favorite chef Guy Fieri. The song appears on the bands 2005 album "Moxie Bravo". Their new Park The Van release "Ode To The Inverse Of The Dude" comes out in April.

The Blind Boys of Alabama were asked to perform the National Anthem at this year’s Fiesta Bowl held in Glendale, AZ. For those that tuned in, you were treated to a very special performance. The group has won four Grammys to date, is nominated for another for the 2008 album "Down in New Orleans" and will also be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year's ceremony.

Their self-entitled LP (Def Jam Records) features the song "Ghost" written by HITCO writers Thabiso Nkhereanye and Sam Salter.

Those of us here at Bug Music are terribly saddened to announce the passing of yet another musical giant from this plane of existence. Lux Interior, lead singer of seminal psychobilly band, The Cramps, died from complications of an existing heart condition at 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 04, 2009. Emerging from the original punk rock scene of CBGB’s and Max’s Kansas City in 1976, Lux and his guitar playing wife, Poison Ivy, kept The Cramps at the forefront of the punk and psychobilly scene for over 30 years. They coined the now popular term “psychobilly” on their 1976 gig posters. Onstage, Lux was always a proud member of the Iggy Pop school of self-sacrificing showmanship, giving every performance his absolute all. Largely because of this commitment to his craft, one would be hard pressed to find more devoted and dedicated fans than those that The Cramps counted as their own. A true original and completely fearless front man, Lux Interior turned each stage he stepped on into a showcase of pure passion, fire and beautiful abandon. He will be sorely missed.

The Blind Boys Of Alabama [Time Life] Writers: Chris Goldsmith, Jimmy Carter, Joey Williams, Eric McKinnie City That Care Forgot Dr. John And The Lower 911 [429 Records] Writer: David Carson “City That Care Forgot,” “Dream Warrior,” “My People Need a Secondline” and “Say What” Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album Raising Sand Robert Plant & Alison Krauss [Rounder Records] Writers: Townes Van Zandt – “Nothin’” ‘Little Milton’ Campbell – “Let Your Loss Be Your Lesson” Sam Phillips – “Sister Rosetta Goes Before Us” Producer: T Bone Burnett Best Zydeco Or Cajun Music Album Live At The 2008 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival BeauSoleil & Michael Doucet [MunckMix] Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media Juno (Various Artists) [Fox Music/Rhino] Song: “Sea of Love” (Trio) And also to those nominated: Best Electronic/Dance Album Bring Ya To The Brink Cyndi Lauper [Epic] Writer: Richard Morel X Kylie Minogue [Capitol/Astralwerks] Songs: "Like a Drug", "Speakerphone", "No More Rain", "All I See", "Nu-di-ty" (Crosstown Writers) Best Rock Song Sex On Fire Caleb Followill, Jared Followill, Matthew Followill & Nathan Followill, songwriters (Kings Of Leon) [RCA Records] Writers: Jared Followill, Matthew Followill, Caleb Followill, Nathan Followill Producer: Angelo Petraglia Best Rock Album Only By The Night Kings Of Leon [RCA Records] Writers: Jared Followill, Matthew Followill, Caleb Followill, Nathan Followill Producer: Angelo Petraglia Best Hard Rock Performance Lords Of Salem Rob Zombie Track from: Zombie Live [Geffen/UMe] Producer: Scott Humphrey Best R&B Album The Way I See It Raphael Saadiq [Columbia] Writer: Bobby Ozuna - "Sometimes", "100-yard Dash", "Love That Girl" Back Of My Lac' J. Holiday [Capitol Records] Writers: Sean Garrett - "Betcha Never Had," and Patrick "JQ" Smith - "Fatal" First Love Karina [Def Jam] Writers: Chasity Nwagbara - "90's Baby" Gordon Chambers - "Can't Bring Me Down" Farrah Fleurimond - "Can't Find The Words" Best Female R&B Vocal Performance Me, Myself And I Beyoncé Track from: The Beyonce Experience Live Audio [Columbia/Music World Music] Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance Love That Girl Raphael Saadiq Track from: The Way I See It [Columbia Records] Writer: Bobby Ozuna Best R&B Album Love & Life Eric Benét [Friday/Reprise] Lay It Down Al Green [Blue Note] Songs: "Take Your Time" and "Stay With Me" (Global Talent Writers) Best R & B Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals "Words" Anthony David featuring India Arie Track from: Acey Duecy [Soulbird /Universal Republic] Writers: Anthony David Harrington, Cornelius Barnes, India.Arie, Branden Burch, Eddie Stokes Best Rap/Sung Collaboration Green Light John Legend & Andre 3000 [Columbia/G.O.O.D. Music] Writers: Kawan Prather "KP" and James "Malay" Ho Best Rap Album American Gangster Jay-Z [Roc-A-Fella] Writer: Dwight Grant - "Ignorant Shit" Best Country Album That Lonesome Song Jamey Johnson [Mercury] Writers: Wayd Battle, Kendell Marvel, Jamey Johnson-"That Lonesome Song" Best Male Country Vocal Performance You're Gonna Miss This Trace Adkins Track from: American Man, Greatest Hits Volume II [Capitol Records Nashville] Writer: Ashley Gorley through Combustion Best Country Instrumental Performance Sleigh Ride Béla Fleck & The Flecktones Track from: Jingle All The Way [Rounder] Writers: Béla Fleck, Jeff Coffin, Victor Wooten, Roy Wooten Two Small Cars In Rome Jerry Douglas & Lloyd Green Track from: Glide [Kock] Writers: Jerry Douglas Best Country Song Dig Two Graves Ashley Gorley & Bob Regan, songwriters (Randy Travis) Track from: Around The Bend Writer: Ashley Gorley through Combustion You're Gonna Miss This Ashley Gorley & Lee Thomas Miller, songwriters (Trace Adkins) Track from: American Man, Greatest Hits Volume II [Capitol Records Nashville] Writer: Ashley Gorley through Combustion Best Country Album Around The Bend Randy Travis [Warner Bros.] Writer: Ashley Gorley - "Dig Two Graves" Best Bluegrass Album Wheels Dan Tyminski [Rounder] Writer: Ron Block - "It All Comes Down to You" and "The One You Lean On" Best Traditional Blues Album Skin Deep Buddy Guy [Silvertone Records] Writer: Buddy Guy All Odds Against Me John Lee Hooker Jr. [Steppin' Stone Records/CC Entertainment] Writer: John Lee Hooker Jr. Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album This Moment Steven Curtis Chapman [Sparrow Records] Songs: "Miracle of the Moment", "Something Crazy", "My Surrender" Writer: Matt Brownleewe Best Contemporary Blues Album Peace, Love & BBQ Marcia Ball [Alligator Records] Writer: David Egan "Peace, Love & BBQ" Simply Grand Irma Thomas [Rounder Records] Writer: David Egan "Underground Stream" From Now On Michael Doucet [Smithsonian Folkways Recordings] Homage Au Passé Pine Leaf Boys [Lionsgate] Writer: Wilson Savoy through Tradition Music Live At The 2008 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys [MunckMix] Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media Walk Hard (From Walk Hard -- The Dewey Cox Story) Judd Apatow, Marshall Crenshaw, Jake Kasdan & John C. Reilly, songwriters (John C. Reilly) Track from: Walk Hard The Dewey Cox Story [Columbia] Writer: Marshall Crenshaw Best Surround Sound Album Sensurround + B-Sides Toru Takayama, surround mix engineer; Ryuichi Tanaka & Yu Yamaguchi, surround mastering engineers; Keigo Oyamada, surround producer (Cornelius) [Everloving] Best Recording Package Radio Retaliation Neal Ashby, Matthew Curry & Patrick Donohue, art directors (Thievery Corporation) [ESL Music] Writers: Rob Garza, Eric Hilton Best Short Form Music Video Honey Erykah Badu Erykah Badu & Mr. Roboto, video directors; Megan Gutman, video producer [Universal Motown] Writer: Bobby Ozuna Best Long Form Music Video Respect Yourself -- The Stax Records Story (Various Artists) Robert Gordon & Morgan Neville, video directors; Mark Crosby, Robert Gordon & Morgan Neville, video producers [Stax/Tremolo Productions/Concord Music Group] Writer: Al Jackson Jr. Amazing Journey: The Story Of The Who The Who Paul Crowder & Murray Lerner, video directors; Murray Lerner, Robert Rosenberg & Nigel Sinclair, video producers [Universal Home Entertainment] Writer: Pete Townshend

Congratulations are in order for Bruno Mars on co-writing the #1 Record on the Hot 100 and also for debuting at No. 1 on the Hot Digital Songs chart with 636,000 units first week sales - setting a record for most weekly digital downloads. Some of you may recognize that this song is based on Dead Or Alive's 1985 No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)". This single will be included on Flo Rida's upcoming album R.O.O.T.S, due out April 7th, 2009 on Poe Boy/Atlantic.

Bug client Lyrics Born had his song “I Like It, I Love It” (from his ANTI release “Everywhere At Once”) included in the film & digital soundtrack to the remake of “Friday the 13th”. The Warner Bros. film opened over the Presidents Day weekend and posted $43.6 million. The most ever raked in by a so-called slasher flick!

Kings of Leon have just won Best International Group and Best International Album at the 2009 Brit Awards. Besides their Brit win, they graced last weeks Billboard magazine w/ the header "How The Southern Rock Band Went From European Favorites To American Stars"

"Extra Cheese" is the name of Ryan's new EP released Feb. 10th on iTunes only. It features seven tracks, (one never before released) and will surely warm those fans who never know when they're going to be getting another dose of Ryan. p.s. Don't blame us if your order doesn't come with a side of breadsticks!

The upbeat song "Break My Stride" co-written by Matthew Wilder and Greg Prestopino appears in the recent film. Keep your ears open for the tune in the Baltimore-set movie of interconnecting story arcs that deal with the challenges of reading or misreading human behavior.

Melissa Manchester will be participating in the Legends and Lyrics series on APT set to air this fall. Will be participating in the Legends and Lyrics series which tapes in Nashville at the end of February. This new American Public Television (APT) performance series honors the true creators of the most popular genres of commercial music. Melissa will perform on the show and take part in an in-depth interview focused on the art and craft of songwriting. These new shows are scheduled to air nationally in the fall season of 2009.

Bug Music Publishing has acquired a portion of Murrah Music and its associated catalogs, while hiring its founder Roger Murrah as senior VP, overseeing the company's Nashville operation. In addition to directing the overall objectives of Nashville, Murrah's key responsibilities will include managing the Bug Music collection of copyrights, developing staff writers with VP John Allen and creative director Sara Johnson, as well as continuing his own songwriting. Murrah, who formed Murrah Music in 1990, is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and chairman of its Foundation; and he is a BMI Songwriter of the Year and Songwriter of the Decade ('90s). Murrah's songwriting contributions include "We're in This Love Together," "Goodbye Time," "Where Corn Don't Grow," "High Cotton," "Ozark Mountain Jubilee," "Stranger Things Have Happened," and "Don't Rock the Jukebox."

Stuart Hart, SVP for Bug Windswept composed the theme for Rockstar Games Grand Theft Auto IV: "The Lost And The Damned". The Lost and Damned is the highly-anticipated first episode of Grand Theft Auto IV downloadable content for Xbox 360R and will be available exclusively on Xbox LIVER on February 17th, 2009 worldwide.

Lester was a part of both the Earwig Records family and Bugmusic, and he will be sorely missed by all.

Both win big at the Austin Music Awards. Alejandro took home Musician of the Year, Album of the Year for "Real Animal" and Best Songwriter While Bob was recognized for Band of the Year with Bob Schneider & Lonelyland, Best Bluegrass for Bob Schneider's Texas Bluegrass Massacre, and Best Male Vocals. Reckless Kelly took home the award for Best Country Artist. We congratulate the other Bug nominees Dale Watson, Guy Forsyth, James McMurtry & Hayes Carll, and The True Believers (Alejandro Escovedo, Javier Escovedo & Jon Dee Graham) who were all inducted into Austin's Hall of Fame.

Nashville contributes big time to Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart this week (4/4) with the #1, #4 & #5 songs. #1 "It Won't Be Like This For Long"- Darius Rucker (ASHLEY GORLEY, D. Rucker, C. Dubois). #4 "Don't Think I Can't Love You" - Jake Owen (KENDELL MARVEL, J. Ritchey). #5 "It's America"- Rodney Atkins (ANGELO PETRAGLIA, B. James).

Bug writers Tim Owens, Derek George, and Adam Tefteller have come up with the song "Let's Do This" which Miley Cyrus has covered for her upcoming film "Hannah Montana: The Movie". The song appears on the films soundtrack and has been receiving heavy airplay on Disney Radio.

The film "Sunshine Cleaning" includes the Golden Smog song "Cure For This" in its opening titles. The film stars Amy Adams and Emily Blunt; while the song was written by Marc Perlman (of Golden Smog & The Jayhawks).

The Universal film "Duplicity" starring Julia Roberts and Clive Owen includes the Thievery Corporation song "Holographic Universe" by Rob Garza & Eric Hilton.

We are delighted to have entered into an exclusive, worldwide agreement to represent Strange Music, the publishing company which owns and controls the Rory Gallagher catalogue globally. Rory Gallagher (2 March1948-14 June 1995) was the hugely successful blues/rock guitarist, singer and songwriter whose records have sold in excess of 30 million copies worldwide. Born in Ireland, he is known both for his solo albums, and for his tenure in the band Taste during the late 60s, but his influence on contemporary and subsequent guitarists is probably best illustrated by the ready accolades afforded him by the variety of players recognized as amongst the most important in their own rights: "The man who changed my musical life was Rory Gallagher, I picked up a guitar because of him." Johnny Marr "The man who got me back into the blues." Eric Clapton "Playing on stage with him in LA was one of the biggest thrills for me ever." Slash "A beautiful man and an amazing guitar player. He was a very sensitive man and a great musician." The Edge "So these couple of kids come up, who's me and my mate, and say 'How do you get your sound Mr. Gallagher?' and he sits and tells us. So I owe Rory Gallagher my sound." Brian May

Polly Jean Harvey joins her long-time collaborator John Parish at Bug Music as their new album "A Man a Woman Walked By" (Island) is generating great reviews. A Woman A Man Walked By is only the second album wholly co-written and jointly performed by new Harvey and long-standing Bug client, Parish and comes over 12 years after 1996's Dance Hall At Louse Point. Over the years, John co-produced the PJ Harvey albums To Bring You My Love (1995) and White Chalk (2007), and was the featured musician on 1998's Is This Desire? (while also finding time to release 3 solo albums of his own, and collaborate with artists as varied as Goldfrapp, Eels and Giant Sand). Released worldwide by Island/Universal on the 31st of March, both the album and first single, "Black Hearted Love" are already gathering superlative reviews.

What a week!! Bug writer's ran the tables and scored across genres on the Billboard charts for the week 4/4/09. Kelly Clarkson is #1 on the Top 200 (Song "I Do Not Hook Up" co-written by Kara Dioguardi), Flo Rida is #1 on the Hot 100 and Hot Digital Songs with the song "Right Round" co-written by Bruno Mars. And Darius Rucker scored #1 on Hot Country Songs, "It Won't Be Like This For Long", co-written by Ashely Gorley. Congratulations to our All Star line-up.

Bug inks deal with Joan Jett and Blackheart Records – we are incredibly happy to announce the Joan Jett and Blackheart Records have joined the Bug/Windswept family. We now administer all of Joan’s renowned publishing catalog, including her influential work featuring “Bad Reputation” and “I Hate Myself for Loving You.” We will also represent Blackheart Records Group masters non-exclusively for synchronization opportunities along with pursuing ongoing creative collaborations with Blackheart Records artists under the Bug Music umbrella. The Blackheart Records roster currently includes Girl in a Coma, The Dollyrots, The Eyeliners, The Cute Lepers, and The Vacancies. As a founding member of The Runaways, Jett wrote and co-wrote much of the band’s music during their four year, five album career. Following the break-up of the Runaways, Jett produced The Germs’ highly influential and only studio recording “(GI).” That same year, she began pursuing her solo career. In 1980, following the universal rejection of her debut solo album, Jett released the then self-titled record on the Blackheart Records label, an outlet formed by Jett and manager Kenny Laguna. The follow-up, “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” would go on to top the Billboard charts and become a rock n’ roll staple. Over the course of her career, Jett has charted nine Top 40 singles from eight platinum and gold albums which include her own compositions as well as renditions of “I Love Rock N’ Roll” and “Crimson and Clover.” Jett has worked with The Gits, Peaches, Bikini Kill, Paul Westerberg and has been named one of the 100 Greatest Guitar Players of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine.