“My name’s Jamie one half of Biljanaires. The other half belongs to Eddie Biljan. People pass through, but the two of us are the core. A band, song writing collective, and friends, we are all of these. This started one day on my way to work, making music was the farthest thing from my mind. As I went to cross the street a car I recognized drove past and Eddie pulled over and got out. It was like dropping the needle back on the record. I say that because I hadn’t seen him in a long time and we have a history tied up in a band that was called Crush Groove. A fitting name for what it was and will remain. Good times.

So groove to the music. It was written for you, wherever you are.”

The Biljanaires (pronounced billionaires) is an extension of vocalist Jamie’s account of their inception. The songs are about where they live, in a city beside the Pacific Ocean. Some are about the people that have passed through their lives and how they get remembered. Stories told with words and rhythm. Good clean rock.

This is the band Biljanaires.
Welcome to the family guys.
You deserve to be heard!

Until the site is ready: www.myspace.com/biljanaires

2009’s going to be a big year for Pro Soul, so we thought we’d kick it off with a bang – and how better to do this than to have a party…

You’re invited to our official Pro Soul Launch Party!

Here are the details:

WHO: Artists, fans, music industry pros, media, friends of Pro Soul… Everyone’s welcome!

WHAT: Our official launch party!  In support of the MusicBC Charitable Foundation.

WHEN: Sunday, January 25, 2009 at 8 pm to 12pm

WHERE: Backstage Lounge, Vancouver - 1585 Johnston (Granville Island)

WHY: To celebrate the official launch of Pro Soul Alliance.

HOW: Just come to the Backstage Lounge; you can enjoy the company of awesome music lovers in the community, take in the entertainment provided by our fantastic Pro Soul artists, and support a worthy cause.  Cover is by donation to the MusicBC Charitable Foundation.  We’ll even have info about the charity on hand so you know where your money is going.

We know, you’re wondering why a “record label” is donating its cover to charity.  ”What are they thinking?!” you ask.  Well, we care about artists and their rights, we care about musicians in the community, we care about sharing good music with others.  We’re not your ordinary record label.

You don’t need to RSVP, but we’d love to hear if you’re planning to come!  You can either comment here or become a fan of Pro Soul Music on Facebook, where you’ll see our event info and a list of others attending the event.

Don’t miss it!  This is history in the making.

Pro Soul opens its doors today as a progressive, 21st century record label to combat the exploitation of artists by major label conglomerates. Led by music industry veteran, Jarome Matthew, Pro Soul’s approach of providing services to artists without taking the rights to their music or earnings will revolutionize the music industry, providing welcome relief to artists who are struggling to develop their career without professional help.

“Despite being perceived as the holy grail of the music industry, major label deals are accessible to very few artists. Unfortunately, the artists who sign these contracts often aren’t aware that the labels are taking advantage of them,” explains Jarome. “There is something wrong when a million selling, top 5 charting artist has to declare bankruptcy. Pro Soul is helping to put the power in the industry back where it belongs – in the hands of artists. The music industry has changed; the Internet allows music lovers to show how they want to consume music. Unlike the major labels, Pro Soul is embracing that change. It’s time to give both artists and fans what they want: accessible, high quality music and meaningful interaction. This is a wake up call for the industry; start living in the 21st century!”

Pro Soul’s official launch party is open to the public and will be held on January 25 at the Backstage Lounge in Vancouver.