LOS ANGELES, CA (By
Maria Alamillo for J.E.P.) - Multi-Grammy Award winner Verdine White (of Earth, Wind & Fire) and prominent businessman Scott Julion, have teamed up and formed J.E.P. Entertainment, a new Artist Management/Music Production Company. Julion is a fashion industry veteran whose clients have included Eddie Murphy, Chris Tucker, Halle Berry, Chris Rock,
Adam Sandler and Arsenio Hall, just to name a few as well as corporate giant SEARS. The company will be based in Los Angeles.
"Scott and I have over 25 years of experience in the entertainment business," stated White. "J.E.P. will develop the raw talent of vocalists and musicians in order to prepare them for today's competitive and ever- evolving music market."
The first release from J.E.P. will be a six piece band from Orange County, California, SlapBak. "When Scott and I heard SlapBak's music and saw them perform, we knew they had the talent and passion that we were looking for. We are proud to present them as the first release from J.E.P. Rooted in old-school musicianship, SlapBak is bringing back the funk for the new millennium. With three critically-acclaimed underground CDs under their belt, their music returns to their roots of funky grooves and melodic hooks, revitalizing a genre that is still in demand."
SlapBak is a six piece band headed by singer/songwriter/musician Jara Harris (he plays drums, bass, guitar and keyboards), rapper/vocalist TJ Quake, co-lead singer Aleida, guitarist Jeff "J-Rok" Harris, drummer M.A.T.T. and turntablist DJ Ruffnek. Their new CD, "The Key," contains 16 tracks including the first single, a funky remake of the WAR classic, "Lowrider."
"SlapBak's infectious sound and high energy will attract today's pop culture, as well as 'seasoned' music lovers," stated Julion. Their live performances prove that their CD is "The Key."