NEW YORK, NY. (Top40 Charts/ Hennessy Group) - Hennessy, the number 1 selling cognac in the world, will host the star-studded Hennessy artistry finale event featuring inaugural curator
Ne-Yo at the iconic Gotham Hall in New York City on Wednesday, October 15th.
Leona Lewis and
Fabolous will join
Ne-Yo on-stage for a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration performance. Guests will experience a unique blend of music, atmosphere and energy while enjoying signature Hennessy cocktails.
Last year, the Hennessy artistry finale event was held at the treasured Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, which was transformed into an international stage for two of music's biggest acts Fall Out Boy and Pharrell. For the first time this year, the Hennessy artistry concert series involved a curator, Ne-Yo, which illustrates Hennessy's role as an unparalleled leader in innovative experiences. Hennessy and Ne-Yo used their distinct taste to create unique concert experiences throughout the series with both class and urban style. At Gotham Hall, Ne-Yo will oversee the guests' experience from decor and lighting down to the servers' attire. Ne-Yo also hand-selected the performers with whom he will share the stage.
The Hennessy artistry concert series has, for the past two years, garnered attention from a number of celebrity fans. This year's concert series will be no different. Celebrities who have attended previous Hennessy artistry events include: Drew Barrymore, Jay-Z, Hilary Swank, David Arquette, Carmen Electra, Lance Armstrong, Ewan McGregor, Jessica Alba, Rosie Perez, Mandy Moore, Kirsten Dunst, Kevin Connelly, Kim Kardashian and Kelis.
Leona Lewis will perform songs from her debut album "Spirit," including "Bleeding Love" and "Better in Time." Hennessy artistry curator Ne-Yo co-wrote Lewis' debut single "Bleeding Love" which was number one on the Billboard charts in the U.S. for over four weeks. Ne-Yo will also be joined onstage by hip-hop star Fabolous. Fabolous, whose most recent album "From Somethin' to Nothin'" debuted number one on the Billboard charts, will perform a number of his notable hits including "Can't Deny It" and "Make Me Better." DJ Jazzy Jeff and DJ Cassidy will also perform.
The invitation-only event is the culmination of the 2008 Hennessy artistry concert tour, a series of six private shows which featured musical acts such as LL Cool J, Ashanti, and Fat Joe. The series kicked off in Los Angeles on September 17th, 2008, the day after Ne-Yo's third album "The Year of the Gentleman" was released.
"We are thrilled that Leona Lewis and Fabolous will be joining Ne-Yo for our finale event this year. Hennessy artistry is all about mixing; mixing music, cocktails and audiences together for a unique event experience," says Andy Glaser, SVP of Hennessy U.S. "This year's Hennessy artistry finale is sure to be an event to remember."
"Hennessy and I are a good mix. Hennessy is known for its skilled blending of tradition with trendy innovation in its drinks and in its appeal. That's a lot like what I try to do with my music. I'm always trying to find the right balance of class and urban style," said Ne-Yo. "To participate in the finale, with Leona Lewis and Fabolous is a vision that I've had since I signed on as curator."
Ne-Yo debuted in 2006 with his album "In My Own Words," which became a certified RIAA double-platinum album. In 2008 Ne-Yo won a Grammy for the Best Contemporary R&B Album for his second CD "Because of You." Ne-Yo has also been recognized for his remarkable songwriting, writing songs such as Rhianna's "Unfaithful," Beyonce's "Irreplaceable" and songs for Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Britney Spears and Enrique Iglesias.
The event is hosted exclusively by Hennessy which boasts a long and supportive partnership with emerging and established music talent. The tour will also feature the brand's signature cocktails: Hennessy Sidecar, Hennessy Mojito and Hennessy Ginger showcasing the cognac's classic and modern flavor celebrating Hennessy's art of global mixing.
