November 6, 2002

CONTACTS: Pauline Stack (212) 621-6278 pstack@ascap.com

The ASCAP Foundation and The Heineken Music Initiative proudly announce the selection of songwriting collaborators
Kevin Davis, Robbie Odom and Jon Wesley as the beneficiaries of a special R&B grant program. Launched earlier this year, The Heineken Music Initiative/The ASCAP Foundation R&B Grant program is designed to assist emerging R&B songwriters in furthering their careers and will benefit up-and-coming songwriters in five key music markets across the country (New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago and Miami). The winning songwriters from each of the markets will be awarded a $3,500 grant.

The grant was presented to Kevin Davis and Robbie Odom at The Gig in Hollywood during ASCAP's Rhythm & Soul SWAPmeet. On hand to make the presentation were The Poetess, radio personality/DJ from KKBT’s The Beat 100.3 and ASCAP VP Creative & Film/TV Special Projects Jeanie Weems.

"We congratulate the recipients of this newly-created R&B grant program, said Jeanie Weems. "We are grateful to The Heineken Music Initiative for making this possible and would like to thank the panel of judges that helped in the selection process. This new program is the latest example of The ASCAP Foundation’s commitment to developing and nurturing the musical talent of the future."

Kevin learned about the grant program while visiting the ASCAP Membership Office in Los Angeles. He teamed up with Robbie, his brother and co-writing partner of 10 years, and together they provided the music to Jon’s lyrics to complete the winning song "Special Lady," a tribute song to that special person in your life.

Between them, they cite their music influences to include Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Earth, Wind & Fire, Patrice Rushen, Marvin Gaye and Usher.

Kevin was inspired at an early age to take music lessons through observing his local church organist/singer. In addition to writing music and lyrics, he’s a master of the keys and has played for Montell Jordan, Tamia, Kelly Price and LL Cool J.
Robbie earned a major in music at USC. He was inspired to become involved in music through Locke High School, which has a rich history of great musicians. Like his brother, he writes music and lyrics, plays keyboard and he also plays drums.
As a lyricist and singer, Kevin’s commitment and passion for music is fuelled by the R&B sounds of today. He has been writing for the past five years and has participated in numerous talent shows and open mic sessions across the country.

"The grant program gives a voice to the artists in the trenches who don’t necessarily have avenues and resources to be heard in the industry," said Jon. "Winning the grant is an acknowledgement and helps to validate your work."

"It’s a good opportunity for unsigned writers to get recognition," added Robbie, "and I hope it will lead to bigger and better things."

The ASCAP Rhythm & Soul SWAPmeet is a national event held at various times and locations throughout the year and is designed to give writers, producers, lyricists and artists an opportunity to network, develop collaborations, meet industry music professionals and discover as yet unheard talent. Participants in the SWAPmeet series have included She'kspere, Cody ChesnuTT, Warryn Campbell, DJ Quik, Jean Norris - formerly of Zhane, Big Jon Platt of EMI Music, Max Gouse of Epic Records, LaRonda Sutton of Universal and Big Chuck at Aftermath Records.

Later this month, the Heineken Music Initiative will release a new CD, Red Star Sounds Vol. 2. Funds raised from the sale of that record will go to support urban music related causes - including providing additional resources for Heineken Music Initiative/ASCAP Foundation grants for emerging R&B songwriters.

The Heineken Music Initiative was founded as a non-profit organization by Heineken USA Inc. Its board includes representatives from Heineken USA and the music industry.

Since 1975 The ASCAP Foundation has been dedicated to supporting American music creators and encouraging the development of American music through educational and talent development programs. Included in these are songwriting workshops, grants, scholarships, music education programs, and public service projects for senior composers and lyricists. The programs of The ASCAP Foundation are supported by contributions from ASCAP members and from music lovers throughout the United States.