BATTLING THE BRITNEY EFFECT, FRED PENNER RELEASES NEW SING-ALONG CD TORONTO, Ontario, September 10, 2002 – Sing with Fred hits stores Tuesday, September 24, 2002! "Fred's graceful, folk-laced pop music, envelopes listeners like a warm hug. His hard-core fans are known as "Fredheads" and that includes pretty much anyone who has ever attended one of his rollicking, high-energy live performances. – Childfest - 2002 Toronto, Canada – After a six-year hiatus from recording, Canada's foremost family entertainer, Fred Penner has created a very special recording which is poised to be one of his most popular offerings to date. Sing with Fred is a lively collection that is overflowing with the kind of sing-along songs kids love to learn by heart. They are songs that Fred has always wanted to record and now, with his trademark style, Fred makes classic songs like Over the Rainbow, Puff (The Magic Dragon), and You Are My Sunshine his own. Whether exploring languages with the Spanish classic Des Colores or the French classroom favourite Alouette, Fred Penner fans both young and old will enjoy the diversity, the energy and the interactive elements of this dynamic new recording. Produced by fellow Canadian children's entertainer Jack Grunsky, Sing with Fred brings together the combined experience and unique musical styles of these two much-loved performers. Audiences may be surprised to see these celebrated musicians come together for this project, a somewhat unusual step in the world of children's entertainment, but they will no doubt delight in the results of this successful partnership. Fred is also thrilled to have had his own family participate in this project with his own children providing back-up vocals on most of the tracks. "One of my greatest joys in life is to see families enjoying their time together and having fun with music. Singing is such an important part of human interaction; and particularly in young children, music not only contributes to a strong sense of self, but also can teach them how to enjoy life and the world around them. Through-out my career I have tried to impart this belief" said Mr. Penner, "and I hope the introduction of karaoke tracks will motivate children to sing with their families, with their classmates, and to develop their own musical talents making music a central part of their lives". Sing with Fred is the first album from Fred Penner to offer the interactive option of karaoke tracks. It is a great companion for birthday parties, long road trips, and classrooms. Producer Jack Grunsky, who is also a noted educator believes that, "With the cut backs to special education programs in this country, this album is something that will become an important tool in early childhood education. As a children's music specialist who has worked with children of all ages, I know that music is a language which is so beneficial for children to learn at a young age. But, more importantly this a cheerful, fun album full of really great music – it's something that can be enjoyed by the whole family." In a new world of consumerized children's entertainment, Fred Penner stands apart from the mass marketed entertainers now targeting younger audiences. Fred continues to offer families a clear, simple message that emphasizes strong values. He is one of the most popular children's entertainers in the world. He is recognized internationally as an exceptional artist whose powerful music resonates with family values and imaginative style. He has released 12 albums, which have sold approximately one million copies, has written several children's books and an interactive CD Rom. Fred Penner has starred in 12 seasons of the children's television show Fred Penner's Place and 11 home videos, and most recently has hosted a 12-episode series on simple living. He tours children's festivals throughout North America, and has given back to the community as a spokesperson for Easter Seals, UNICEF and Down Syndrome. Fred Penner lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba with his wife and their 4 children. Sing with Fred, will be available across the country on Tuesday, September 24th. For further information please contact: Victoria Lord - Casablanca Kids Phone: 416-484-9047 Email: victoria.lord@sympatico.ca |
