PHOENIX, Jan. 26, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Viastar Holdings Inc. (OTCBB:VISH) announced today that the Company has signed an exclusive worldwide distribution agreement with Florida-based Acclaim Records. The record label, whose management includes Andre Dawson (All-Star Baseball Legend), James McManus (former President/CEO of Radio City Music Hall) and Joseph Danna (former Radio City Music Hall executive), is focused on developing new artists for both the Country and R&B genres, and is committed to release multiple titles over the initial five (5) year term of the agreement.
In addition, Acclaim is building on the career of legendary Country songwriter Charlie Craig, who has written hits for Travis Tritt, Reba McIntyre, Alan Jackson, Lorrie Morgan, Johnny Cash, George Strait and Dolly Parton, to name a few. Charlie Craig's debut album, "Old Memories and Me," is slated for an early spring street date. Charlie is also working with the label in developing the career of newcomer Tyler Alexander, a 19-year-old Country sensation preparing to launch his first album in spring 2004.
Acclaim, through Executive Producer/Vice President of Marketing, Andre Dawson, is also developing its R&B roster which includes the stunning vocal debut of Mesha. The artist is currently in production on her album "Broken Glass."
The principals of Acclaim Records are veterans in the music and entertainment industry, with the company's President Joseph Danna having cut his teeth at Radio City Music Hall in the mid-80s. Mr. Danna has also worked on the Grammy Awards, MTV Awards and numerous other major industry related events. In 2002, Mr. Danna was joined by James McManus, former President and Chief Executive Officer for Radio City Music Hall. While at Radio City, Mr. McManus produced numerous productions including the Super Bowl Half-Time program with Michael Jackson and Diana Ross.
Courtney Proffitt, Senior Vice President of Viastar Distribution Group, stated: "We are very proud to have the opportunity to work with a label which has such a solid management team, commitment to business and artist development, and the ability to execute its business plan -- all of which were significant factors in Viastar's decision to enter into a long-term agreement with Acclaim as we are focusing our efforts on building a strong distribution catalog for our retail partners and a strong revenue stream for our shareholders."
For more information visit Viastar's web site at http://www.viastarcorp.com/
About Viastar:
Viastar Holdings, Inc. is engaged in development, production and distribution of entertainment-related media for film, television, music and publishing interests. The Company's portfolio currently includes ownership of Viastar Distribution Group, A.V.O. Studios, Moving Pictures International, Viastar Records, Quadra Records, Light of the Spirit Records, and Viastar Classical.
Except historical matter contained herein, matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties, which may affect the Company's business and prospects and cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements.