DMC launches first hip-hop virtual world: where’s my digital Adidas?

I just got word that Hip hop artist Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-DMC fame is opening the first hip-hop oriented virtual world, called DMC World. Officially launching next week, the 3d environment will include a rooftop club overlooking a "crazy NYC skyline", a VIP screening room, a "VIP
access-only backstage hangout", and a stage to see DMC rocking the mic. So expect DMC himself to make special appearances in-world for his fans. (But not his fans on a Mac. DMC World is based on the PC-only Worlds.com engine. Boo!)

I am interested in the idea of old skool hip-hop artists connecting with fans old and new using social media… even if it's MC Hammer. I think there are interesting possibilities for 3D spaces where music fans and artists can connect with each other, listen to music, and have fun.  But does each artist need their own virtual world?  Should Myspace go 3D?  Do we need to resuscitate failed vSide venture "The Lounge"?

Frankly, this seems like a vanity project that will not make it past Q2.

Hit up the press release after the jump…

Noël Thelander
815-353-9416
accentuatepr@att.net

MEDIA ALERT

SNEAK PREVIEW OF HIP HOP LEGEND DARRYL “DMC” McDANIELS’ 3D VIRTUAL WORLD AT ENGAGE! EXPO IN NYC, MARCH 10

WHAT:              
Hip hop artist and co-founder of Run-DMC Darryl “DMC” McDaniels  –to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this April — is opening a whole new world to his fans: DMC’s 3D Virtual World. On the leading edge of the trend for musical artists to engage with their fans via the interactive media world, DMC will host a sneak preview for invited media and special guests of his very own 3D virtual world, www.DMCWorlds.com, – immediately following Engage Expo’s “Music Goes 3D: The Music Industry’s Next Great Frontier ” panel session with execs from leading 3D virtual world and entertainment companies.

With technology melding Darryl McDaniels’ real and virtual worlds, attendees can jump onto computers and navigate their avatars (virtual personas) through a simultaneous adventure in DMC’s 3D Virtual World.  Your personal avatar can join others to explore DMC World’s rich on-screen spaces that replicate the actual venues from DMC’s personal and professional life as a Hip Hop artist, including backstage at a concert, performing on stage, a night at a Hip Hop club, and an NYC rooftop party.

WHEN:            
Sneak Preview March 10, 2009, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. – immediately following Engage Expo’s “Music Goes 3D” panel discussion (2:30-3:30). Official public launch of DMC’s Virtual World is slated for March 31.

WHERE:           
Engage! Expo VIP Lounge, Room 1E03, Javits Center, NYC

WHY:           
With virtual worlds on the forefront of social media and entertainment, DMC’s World is a perfect forum for DMC and his fans to interact with one another and his music and just have fun in an innovative way. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for DMC to raise awareness and support The Felix Organization   501c3 charity, which DMC co-founded to provide positive life experiences for foster kids, including opportunities to go to summer camp.  A portion of DMC World’s subscriptions are being donated to The Felix Organization.

DMC was responsible for igniting the hip hop/rock revolution in 1986 with the incredible Run-DMC/Aerosmith collaboration on “Walk This Way” and now he is the first hip hop artist to lead the charge into the virtual worlds arena. 

CONTACTS: 
Julie Shepherd: 815.479.1833, julie@accentuatepr.com
Noel Thelander: 815.353.9416, accentuatepr@att.net