House of Blues and LG Mobile Phones Team Up for "Ones to Watch Powered by LG"; Major Concert Series to Spotlight Acclaimed Artists and Tour Throughout U.S.

LOS ANGELES, April 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- House of Blues, a music industry leader in introducing new artists, and LG Mobile Phones, one of the fastest growing mobile phone brands, have joined forces for "Ones to Watch Powered by LG," a partnership of musical and technological innovation that will include tour sponsorship and other multi-platformed exposure for new artists. It was announced by Ben Weeden, House of Blues and Carl Brown, director of trade marketing for LG Mobile Phones.

The Dirty Heads are the debut artist.  Originating from Huntington Beach, CA, The Dirty Heads made headlines with their recent record breaking #1 modern rock hit, "Lay Me Down" which lends the talents of Sublime with Rome frontman Rome (Ramirez).  They were also was named one of the "Best New Bands of 2010" by Rolling Stone.

The Dirty Heads have been a featured artist on Fuel TV and their songs have been featured in the movie and soundtrack for Surf's Up (Sony); and the television drama, "Shark" starring James Woods (CBS). Actor Matthew McConaughey selected the band's music to be in his film, Surfer Dude. In addition, they can be heard in Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam video game (Activision), and several other music compilations and surf/skate videos.

The first of many "Ones to Watch Powered by LG" events, attendees of the House of Blues concert will be the first to experience the innovative partnership between LG Mobile Phones and Live Nation. Delivering the sounds of break-out artists from across the nation, the integrated partnership engages music enthusiasts through intimate, one-on-one entertainment events, online social and media efforts, and LG product demonstrations.

"We are really excited to take the 'Ones to Watch' program to the next level," Ben Weeden said.  "House of Blues has always been committed to developing new talent and LG is a proven leader in cutting edge technology, so this partnership will allow us to expose fans to new, exciting music and products.  Artists that are selected for this program will benefit from the expanded exposure through House of Blues and LG's social and digital networks."

"LG is thrilled to be teaming up with the 'Ones to Watch' program and to celebrate the powerfully unique blend of music and technology with such talented artists," said Carl Brown, director of trade marketing for LG Mobile Phones. "Together with House of Blues, we look forward to sparking strong social and digital interest for up-and-coming artists who are paving the way for the music of tomorrow."

Hailing from Tempe, AZ, Sire recording artists The Maine have released two well-regarded albums, Can't Stop, Won't Stop, in 2008 and Black & White in 2010.  In December 2010, the band issued In Darkness & In Light, an iTunes exclusive box set that includes a short film written, scored and created by the band, home recordings, acoustic versions of songs and B sides.

Over the course of their eight years as a band, Epic Records artists Augustana have become known as quality purveyors of well-crafted, melodic piano-driven rock, as evidenced by the success of their Top 40 singles, the digital platinum "Boston" and "Stars and Boulevards" from their 2005 debut All the Stars and Boulevards (which reached No. 1 on Billboard's Heatseekers chart), and "Sweet and Low" and "I Still Ain't Over You" from 2008's Can't Love, Can't Hurt.  The band's third album, the self-titled Augustana, will be out April 26

Acclaimed Universal Republic recording artist Owl City will release a second album, All Things Bright And Beautiful, May 17. The platinum-selling debut, Ocean Eyes, was released in July 2009 and earned some of the best notices of the year (New York Times, Rolling Stone, People, Entertainment Weekly, USA Today, etc.)  Ocean Eyes' sales were led by the runaway single "Fireflies" which is currently quadruple platinum in the U.S.  "Fireflies" hit #1 on the Hot 100 twice and found its' way to the #1 spot in 24 countries around the world leading to several sold out worldwide tours – keeping Owl City on the road for over a year and a half.

Vices & Virtues, released March 2, is the new album from Fueled By Ramen recording artists Panic! At The Disco.  The well received CD marks the band's innovative new incarnation as a duo with vocalist Brendon Urie and drummer Spencer Smith.  Panic! At The Disco's debut album, A Fever You Can't Sweat Out, was released in 2005, reached number 13 on the Billboard chart and sold over 2.2 million copies worldwide.  The band won the 2006 MTV Music Awards Video of the Year for "I Write Sins Not Tragedies."

Mercury/Island Def Jam recording artists Neon Trees released Habits, their debut album, in 2010.  The first single, "Animal," rose to number one on the Billboard Alternative Rock Chart and number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"The House of Blues and LG partnership will include multi-pronged exposure on both House of Blues and LG's social and digital media communities and retail outlets," Weeden said.

About House of Blues

Founded in 1992, The 13 House of Blues are located throughout the United States and form the country's pre-eminent group of intimate music venues.  Each features state-of-the-art sound and lighting technology in one-of-a-kind custom designed environments aimed to bring fans as close as possible to the artists.  Every location's restaurant and bar is adorned with signature original folk-art – part of the world's largest collection – combined with the House of Blues legendary hospitality and tantalizing cuisine.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 80,000 people working in over 115 operations around the world. With 2009 global sales of 55.5 trillion Korean won (USD 43.4 billion), LG comprises four business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning and Energy Solution. LG is one of the world's leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.

About LG Electronics Mobile Communication Company

The LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company is a leading global mobile communications and information company. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design capabilities, LG creates handsets that provide an optimized mobile experience to customers around the world. LG is pursuing convergence technology and mobile computing products, while continuing its leadership role in mobile communication with stylish designs and smart technology. For more information, please visit www.lgmobilephones.com.  

Contact:
Carla Schalman
Breakwhitelight
818-907-8950
[email protected]

Elizabeth Latham
LG Electronics Inc.
LG MobileComm U.S.A., Inc
(858) 805 - 6701
[email protected]

SOURCE House of Blues