ARTISTdirect Records Signs Rapper Phats Bossi.

Entertainment Editors/Music Writers

LOS ANGELES--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--March 11, 2002

Ted Field, CEO of ARTISTdirect, Inc., has announced the signing of West Coast-born and bred MC Phats Bossi to the ARTISTdirect Records label.

"We are extremely pleased and excited to have Phats join our roster," said Field. "He is a truly multi-talented artist who exemplifies the power and passion of hip hop's raw authenticity."

Phats Bossi's debut, tentatively titled "TRIALS & TRIBULATIONS," is scheduled for release this summer. The album is autobiographical in spirit and vividly recounts Phats' unique story of growing up on the mean streets of South Central L.A. The CD will showcase Phats' gruff, smoke-ladened voice, his ability to take creative risks lyrically, and his expert skill in crafting aural street fables.

Phats, who is a prolific writer, has already recorded thirty tracks for the collection from which the album will be crafted. "TRIALS & TRIBULATIONS," which is being recorded in Los Angeles, will be executive produced by Bosko, Phats' long-time colleague and producer. The two formed an artistic alliance when they worked together on several projects for Smoke-A-Lot/Geffen Records. Phats, who has worked with artists such as Dr. Dre and Warren G, will play host to some of Hip Hop's royalty making guest appearances on "Trials & Tribulations."

About ARTISTdirect Records:

ARTISTdirect Records is a co-venture between ARTISTdirect, Inc. and Ted Field, one of the most successful executives in the entertainment industry. Launched in the summer of 2001, ARTISTdirect Records' talent roster includes a diverse range of hip-hop, rap, alternative, and rock artists such as Custom, NAAM Brigade, The Blood Brothers, Mad at Gravity, Smilez & Southstar, No Good, Pokafase, and Phats Bossi. ARTISTdirect Records has a distribution agreement in North America with BMG, who also has a license for territories around the globe. ARTISTdirect Records is affiliated with ARTISTdirect, Inc. (Nasdaq:ARTD), a music and media company that combines an online music network with integrated offline assets to provide a single-stop solution for music fans, artists, labels, and advertisers.