Recording artists with The Write Stuff get support from www.hiphopgivesback.org

When Shadow Play Entertainment President Cyrus A. Webb announced the creation of America's first literary reality show (The Write Stuff) in late 2008, he knew that it would be something that attracted the attention of those outside of writing as well. After all, one of the most important aspects of a good show is the music that accompanies it, and Webb knew he had the chance to do something special with the songs that were a part of this new project.

"We wanted the music and the artists to be just as unique as the concept of the show itself," says Webb, 33, "but we wanted to make sure that the songs were by those who shared our passion for literacy as well." To begin the process, he first went to recording artists he had worked with in the past that were a part of his literacy campaign called Hip Hop and Books. This included Jack Squad, Jon Boy (VH1's The White Rapper Show), Eddie Wright, Dj Down South and Omega Red. Next he went to The Patrick Smith Band who have been supporters of Shadow Play Entertainment since 2004.

Why so many, though, from the Hip Hop community? "Hip Hop is more than just what is glamorized on tv and in some music," says Larry Washington, Asst. Music Producer for The Write Stuff project. "Hip Hop is changing and just as diverse as other genres of music. The artists with The Write Stuff reflect that."


Another organization that has been created to showcase the positive side of Hip Hop is www.hiphopgivesback.org. Created by Mike D and Konata J, HipHopGivesBack.org has set itself as the premiere catalyst committed to cultivating the awareness of the positive efforts, endeavors,and accomplishments of Hip Hop Culture and its communities. Through its website it hopes to remove negative reinforcements that have been placed upon Hip Hop Culture and its communities by bringing you stories of programs, events and priceless moments that are the result of positivity within. It is now supporting The Write Stuff Reality Show and the artists that are a part of it.

"The world is not going to fix itself," says Mike D. "I think it is necessary for those of us who have been blessed in certain positions, to get the ball rolling. This collaboration is the start of a movement that will assist the future(children) in forming the future." Konata J adds this: "The collaboration between www.HipHopgivesBack.org & The Write Stuff is an example of the forward thinking that will bring about progress and change in essential areas, including literacy with urban youth and the promotion of programs. This will contribute to the overall improvement of literacy excellence in our communities." Hip Hop Gives Back will be cross-promoting the artists from The Write Stuff through its site as well.

Dj Down South, a recording artist from Mississippi is also pleased to see the marriage of music and reading. "I'm glad to be a part of projects that can show more than one side of the music that Hip hop produces. The Write Stuff is going to break alot of records, and I think that will include those that have to do with Hip Hop as well."

Other organizations that have partnered with Shadow Play Entertainment and The Write Stuff in their effort to show the positive side of music include For The People Productions, Crunk Magazine, Hype Magazine, Industry Standard Magazine, The Common Ground Foundation and The Hip Hop Chronicle.

To find out more about those who are working to make a difference along with The Write Stuff or to see how you can get involved, visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com or contact Herschel Dixon at 1.502.994.7852.

More Praise for The Write Stuff

“I believe that writing is the most powerful catalyst of ideas, feelings, philosophies and change. It also provides the context for emotions and themes that create the stimulating cinematic and television programming society craves. Reality television is no exception to the rule, as many reality programs are “scripted reality”; dependent upon a writer/producer to craft a compelling story from the ordinary. I am thrilled that Cyrus Webb has created a vehicle for talented writers to develop and emerge in front of the world. The reality of the struggles that writers endure in order to birth a great story is dramatic enough, but the unique personalities who endeavor to bear that struggle and commit to the craft will surely provide riveting television. ‘The Write Stuff’ is the right stuff!” --- Roland Jefferson, Bestselling author of Damaged Goods & White Coat Fever http://www.rolandjefferson.com



“As a national literacy and mentoring organization, Everybody Wins! USA is proud to support The Write Stuff. Learning to read at a young age is critical, especially to the development of good writing skills. We are so pleased to see that your show puts a much needed focus on the importance of literacy and writing and we hope it inspires many people, young and old, to support literacy and young writers all around the country.” --- Rich Greif, National Executive Director of Everybody Wins! USA (http://www.everybodywins.org)

Larry Washington joins The Write Stuff as Asst. Musical Director/Promoter

Shadow Play Entertainment is pleased to announce that Promoter Larry Washington has joined The Write Stuff Reality Show as Asst. Music Producer and Asst. Events Promoter for the project.

"Washington, who is the President of 1 Flo Entertainment, has an ear for music and a true eye for talent," says Stanley Clark, one of the producers for The Write Stuff. He has worked with Larry over the years and introduced him to the Executive Producer to see how they could bring his talent to the project. "We are glad to have someone like him working with us."

As Asst. Music Producer for The Write Stuff, Larry will work with the producers in selecting the music for the show as well as help in the assembling of The Write Stuff soundtrack that will be released this summer. In addition to this role, look for him to be instrumental in The Write Stuff tour that will help promote the show beginning in late May 2009. To find out more information about Larry and the work he is doing, visit http://www.myspace.com/1floent or call 1.662.891.7983.

To find out about others involved with The Write Stuff or the overall project, visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com.

Sat. Oct. 23, 2009: Rapper/Author Jacki-O Brings The Message Of Her Novel To Miami

The female Miami rapper Jacki-O hit the world stage being known for her outspokenness, lyrics and style, but in 2008 she shocked many by doing something unexpected: hitting the rode promoting her debut novel GROWN AND GANGSTA.


The book was an instant success, both with fans of the rapper's music and book lovers who were being introduced to her for the first time. Now almost one year later, Jacki-O is bringing the message of her book to her homecity of Miami in order put a spotlight on the importance of reading.

On Friday, October 23, 2009, she will host a booksiging/meet and greet at the Martini Bar (5701 Sunset Dr. Ste. 124a * Sunset Place) in Miami beginning at 6p.m.


"The book is an urban version of the show Friends," says Cyrus Webb,34. He is the lead publicist of the author/recording artist and his organization, Shadow Play Entertainment, is co-sponsoring the event. Webb took the lead on Jacki-O's tour in 2008 and has worked with the publishing company since 2007. His book club, Conversations, has also highlighted the book in the past. "GROWN AND GANGSTA chronicles the journey of six friends as they deal with their past, try to live through the challenges of the present and search for the hope offered by the future."

Admission to the event is free,however, the book is $15.00. Joining Jacki-O at the event will be up-and-coming author Mr. Mean Mug, whose book TATTOO TEARS will also be available for only $10 and Mississippi rapper C. Watts aka Playa Connected (both seen below).



Jacki-O, Mr. Mean Mug and C. Watts are hoping that their involvement in this literary event will show that you can be cool and still educated. They are all joining with Webb in participating in National Day of Reading on Sat. Nov. 21, 2009, again showcasing the importance of reading.

To find out more about the upcoming literary event in Miami or to schedule interviews, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or Herschel Dixon at 502.291.4201.