DIANA ROSS ON CENTER COURT
Diana Ross performed in the opening night ceremony at the U.S. Open. The focus was the renaming of the U.S. Tennis Association National Tennis Center in honor of former player and pioneer Billie Jean King. Ross performed one of her classics as a tribute to King and "God Bless America." She was joined by members of the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts Concert Choir – associated press

BENSON/JARREAU TEAM UP AGAIN
On October 24th, George Benson teams with Al Jarreau for Givin’ It Up. Friends and label-mates for over three decades, this outing marks the first time that the two artists have recorded together as equal partners. Givin’ It Up was recorded between April and June, 2006. Paul McCartney, happened to be in the studio next door during one session and dropped in to join Benson and Jarreau on an impromptu romp through Sam Cooke’s “Bring it on Home to Me.” Jill Scott, performs Billie Holiday’s timeless “God Bless the Child.” Rounding out the album is an instrumental take on John Legend’s “Ordinary People” and four new compositions, including a new Jarreau and Barry Eastmond composition, “Let it Rain,” which features Patti Austin and Chris Botti.

JAMES BROWN HONORED
Musicians performing in James Brown’s hometown, may soon be getting a reminder that they're in the stomping grounds of the Godfather of Soul. The Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority voted to rename the venue's 8,500-seat arena the James Brown Arena. Augusta also has erected a statue and named a street and music festival in his honor.

BOOK CRAIG CHAQUICO  
Craig Chaquico is available for concert bookings through Rick Farrell at ICM in Beverly Hills. You can reach Rick at 310-550- 4098 to check availability or to receive promotional materials. Craig Chaquico is managed by Left Coast Music Group, who can be reached at 408.289.9333. 

HOLIDAY TOUR STARTS SOON 
Brian Culbertson is hitting the road in November and December with Bobby Caldwell, Warren Hill, Ray Parker, Jr., and Eric Darius on the A SOULFUL CHRISTMAS Tour.

WAVFEST LINEUP ANNOUNCED 
Norman Brown has been added to Day One of WavFest on Sept. 29 (The Greek Theatre – Los Angeles, CA). Other performers include Brian McKnight, Boney James and Eric Darius. Earth, Wind & Fire have been added to Day Two on Sept. 30. Other acts include Ramsey Lewis Trio and David Pack.