Talib Kweli Launches Virtual World To Support 'Ear Drum'

Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli has found a new way to interact with fans by teaming with Second Life to launch his own three-dimensional virtual online world. The new venture will allow fans to visit his Brooklyn brownstone, which will feature online amenities such as a pool table, bar area, chill-out room, as well as a rooftop stage where the rapper will stream live concerts from around the country. Created by the San Francisco-based Linden Lab, Second Life is a site that allows users to live out alternative versions of their lives in the 3-D, computer-generated environment. "Second Life is the logical progression for online web communities and brings web interaction to life," said Corey Smyth, who co-owns Blacksmith Records with Kweli. "You are able to enter the mind of your favorite artist through online concerts, neighborhoods and basic one on one interaction. We are excited that Talib Kweli is part of such a progressive community and look forward to continue to build with Second Life." In addition to interacting with Kweli, Second Life users will also have exclusive access to new video content and material from Ear Drum, Kweli's upcoming album from Warner Bros. Records/Blacksmith, which has been penciled in for a 2007 release. Ear Drum will feature production from Hi-Tek, Rick Rubin, Mad Lib, Kanye West and guest appearances from Norah Jones, UGK, Sizzla, Jean Grae and others.