NBA ALL STAR NICK VAN EXEL AND RAPPER SMOOT SET TO RELEASE LONG AWAITED DVD, HIP HOP STORY: THA MOVIE

With a move that can be compared to an offensive rebound play, NBA All Star, Nick Van Exel is poised to finally release Hip-Hop Story: Tha Movie, one of hip hop's long awaited and most anticipated films. The debut production from his company, RapRock Records/Films, Hip-Hop Story: Tha Movie, (Urban Works/ Ventura Distribution) hits the streets, February 11. Exel follows the film's release with a triple double, releasing a soundtrack to the film, Hip- Hop Story: Tha Soundtrack, on April 22; the self titled debut CD from his co-CEO and executive producer, rapper Smoot, on July 8; and The Black Sheep album by Los Angeles based rapper Johnny Rourke, who is also featured on the soundtrack, on September 30.

An explosion of hip hop history, drama and live performances, Hip Hop Story-Tha Movie, features some of hip hop's biggest names, including Snoop Dogg, DMX, Shaquille O'Neal, Ice Cube, P-Diddy, Master P, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and Cash Money Millionaires. Smoot makes his performance debut in the film, readying the marketplace for his entrance in the rap game.

Chronicling the trials, tribulations and triumphs of hip hop in the aftermath of Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G. and Eazy E, Hip-Hop Story: Tha Movie, offers an insider's peak into the realm of a movement that has amassed billions in revenue and changed the face of mainstream entertainment.

As Exel explains, "I have always stated that strategy is everything in your game. We wanted to take our time to put together a major record distribution deal. We've been preparing for the launch of RapRock Records and Films, and our new deal with 2K Sounds / EMI Music Distribution warrants us a game plan that is even tighter than before. We've got more experience under our belt and we have thoroughly calculated the players. Our team is now well positioned to win! And my artist Smoot does to rap what I do to basketball."

Adds co-CEO, Smoot, "A lot of haters were questioning our game from day one. But by the time Hip-Hop Story, the film and then the soundtrack hits the streets, the public will be feigning for my album!"

For more information bounce to their website at www.RapRockRecords.com.

Note to Media: Smoot is available for interviews. Nick Van Exel is available for a limited amount of interviews.

Also, DVD and videos are available for review upon request. Email your preference, along with your mailing address (even if you think we have it!) to makeda@jazzmynepr.com .