[WhiteRob]

Essential Records reissues the debut album by BEC Recording artist KJ-52. Available to consumers Feb. 24, 7th Avenue features five previously unavailable tracks as well as contributions by several guest artists.

KJ-52 debuted with Essential Records in April of 2000. Produced by Todd Collins, of Beatmart Productions and Gotee Brothers fame, 7th Avenue garnered industry acclaim, earning a Dove Award nomination that year for best Rap/Hip Hop Album.

His mission to bring Christ's message to hip-hop communities nationwide first manifested itself with the release of 7th Avenue. Four years later, KJ 's calling remains unchanged. In addition to his own version of dc Talk's "The Hard Way" and appearances by Knowdaverbs, Amani as well as Cross Movement, the '04 edition of 7th Avenue boasts many new songs.

Additions to the latest recording include "Lift Me Up," KJ's take on the hit tune "Flood" by Jars of Clay, and" All Around the World," featuring rapper John Reuben and former L.A. Symphony member Pigeon John. Also unique to the album are "Need Someone" with Silage and "Twelve-Round Knockout," written and recorded for the feature movie "The Champion."

Bob Wohler, VP of A&R for Provident Label Group, comments, "KJ-52's popularity has risen dramatically since 7th Avenue. He has an established name and a national audience who love his music. Many newer fans are either unaware of or unable to get their hands on his first project. This album is for them as well as for KJ' s longtime followers."

In the past four years, KJ-52 has broken down many of the barriers existing between traditional urban music and Christian consumers. What began as a Florida-based street ministry has grown to include magazine covers, successful radio singles, movie soundtracks and national tours. KJ-52 has also had a significant impact on culture resulting from the uncompromising "Dear Slim" (from Collaborations, released through BEC), a song which challenges mainstream rapper Eminem's outlook on the world.

For more information on KJ-52, visit, www.KJ52.com.

Nashville-based Essential Records was founded in 1992 to provide relevant music from a God-centered perspective. Essential Records is part of the Provident Label Group, distributed through Provident Music Distribution and through partnerships with BMG.