BET NETWORKS MUSIC MATTERS ANNOUNCES FALL 23-CITY TOUR WITH KENDRICK LAMAR

Kendrick Lamar’s First Album “good kid m.A.A.d. city” Scheduled

For Release October 2, 2012

New York, NY– July 19, 2012 – BET Networks’ Music Matters has teamed up with Kendrick Lamar for a 23-city tour that kicks off this fall in Norfolk, VA on Friday, September 7, 2012.

From Bonnaroo to the Pitchfork Music Festival, California native Kendrick Lamar has spent 2012 spreading his brand of “HiiiPoWeR.”  Schooled on the streets of Compton, Lamar grew up in the 90’s era of west coast hip hop and the influences are clear.  He’s quickly become a favorite of musicians, hip hop bloggers, tastemakers and fans alike. Personally signed by Dr. Dre to Aftermath Entertainment by way of Top Dawg  Entertainment in March, the Music Matters Tour featuring Kendrick Lamar kicks off in time for the release of his first studio album with Aftermath Entertainment/Interscope Records “good kid, m.A.A.d. city,” which drops October 2, 2012.

“Kendrick is one the most prolific and phenomenal artist emerging today. His music, style and flow brings a fresh and important perspective to hip hop and we are proud to leverage the BET Music Matters brand to expose his amazing talents to the masses,” said Kelly Griffin, BET Senior Director Music Programming.

“More than a hip hop show, it’s an experience worth a life time,” said Kendrick Lamar about the upcoming tour.

BET Networks’ Music Matters is an initiative dedicated to seeking out emerging artists devoted to creating music of the highest quality.  By being associated with BET Networks, the #1 Ad-supported Cable Network among Blacks 18-49 for 12 consecutive years, Music Matters is a powerful way for new musicians to connect with existing fans and to be introduced to a wider audience.

The BET Networks’ Music Matters Tour employs a multi-platform approach to engage our audience including on-air promotions that reach over 90 million households, live appearances on 106 & PARK, the BET.com online portal and our award-winning mobile applications.

Concert Dates and Cities:

For Music Matters Tour updates and ticket information, go to www.bet.com/musicmatters

For continuing information on all BET Networks programming, check out our website at www.betpressroom.com and follow us on Twitter at @BET_PR.