Hi Everybody,

Just wanted to let you know what I've been up and to fill you in about what's been going on.

First of all, many of you know that in addition to being a singer, I obtained my law degree and assist workers who are wrongfully terminated, or who suffer from discrimination or other unfair acts at work.  This summer I have had the opportunity to represent clients in a number of cases.  Two of them may go to trial this winter.  One is being brought by a female lifeguard to was subjected to sex harassment by a coach at Cal Tech.  Her supervisors and others in the athletic department retaliated against her after she complained.  The other case that is approaching trial involves a worker who was wrongfully terminated by a national health care company the day after she complained to the corporate office that she was being treated less favorably than workers who were not African-American.  These are just two of the important cases I am handling, but they have occupied an unusually large amount of my time this summer.  Unfortunately these obligations have taken my time away from music.  However, I hope that this will chance soon.

As soon as I come up for air, I will complete the work on the live album.  We are very close to it being completed.  It is a bigger job then I anticipated because we recorded so many shows, and because we wanted to take the best performances of the songs, instead of having songs from just one show.  Wyn Davis has been wonderful in mixing.  However, since he has been busy with lots of other projects, and has been traveling out of the country to China, it has been hard to coordinate everyone's schedule.

The artwork for the Karma's a Bitch limited edition vinyl release is completed.  However, there is a multi-month delay in getting vinyl out of the manufacturers.  When we have an estimate, we will put up a link for pre-sales, in case you are interested.

Earlier this week Simon, Bjorn, Ira, Scott, and myself went to the unveiling of the statue at the Rainbow Bar and Grill to honor Lemmy.  (Max was visiting his family).  I saw lots of people there and many were asking about Hellion.

Hope to have more news soon.  Thanks for your support!

Ann Boleyn

Hi Everybody,

Lots going on right now.  Sorry of not blogging in a long time.

Hellion is busy preparing for the Monsters of Rock Cruise.  Hope to see many of you there.

We also recently delivered the live tracks to Wyn Davis who will be mixing them as soon as his schedule opens up.  

Expect some announcements about some more shows this spring and more recording, too.  

Thanks for your support!

Ann Boleyn

Dear Friends:

A lot of great things are in the works.

Hellion's Karma's A BItch tour was recorded live, as you know.  There have been a number of technical difficulties, such as separating the individual tracks and also with the way the drums were recorded, so that it can be properly mixed.  We enlisted Bill Metoryer  to use some cutting edge technology to correct the technical problems and have decided to use tracks from various cities, instead of just one single concert.   Wyn Davis will be doing the mixing as soon as the technical issues are ironed out.

The Hellion show at the Arcada Theater in Chicago, IL, on May 9, 2015, was also recorded live.   We will be releasing some of those recordings as well at some point, too.  A fan-made video of Stormrider from that show can be found here.

On May 16, 2015, members of Hellion were honored to be asked to perform at the concert honoring the 5th year of the passing of Ronnie James Dio.  On the way to that event, when I was driving, a large Home Depot truck changed lanes into my car.  I normally do not mention personal matters.  But, because the accident was seen by some people behind me, who were also heading to the event, I wanted to let everybody know what happened and  that I am okay.  I declined medical treatment at the accident scene and chose to wait until after the memorial events to see a doctor.  I  and was not seriously injured, except for a concussion and some soft tissue injuries.  Some fan-made videos of the performance can be found at these two links:  (1) Video excerpt.   (2) Longer video. 

On May 30, 2015, I did some new photos with Jerry Averill.  Some of them have been posted on the Hellion Facebook page.

I'd like to also thank Brenda and Charles, who are both serving as the admins on a new Hellion discussion board on Facebook.  There are more than 13,000 people on the page.  If you have not already joined, feel free to check it out here.

Simon and I also wanted to thank everybody for all the great Happy Birthday wishes!

Hellion has just been added to the 2016 Monsters of Rock Cruise (East Coast sailing).  We are excited about this.  Our booking agent will be setting up a tour around the cruise and we are planning to visit cities on the east coast that we could not hit on the 2014 tour.

We added free daily downloads of Hellion songs on the official Hellion web page.  To get yours, go to the main page and look at the bottom right hand of the page.  Then click where it says "FREE" and enter your email, and the song will be sent to you.  

Thanks again for all your support.

Never stop dreaming!

-Ann Boleyn-


 

Hi Friends,

After a great 2014, I am determined to make 2015, even better.  As I get older I realize how short life really is, and I am determined to make my life count for something -- every day.

Max, Simon, and I started out this year with songwriting.  We are working on new songs and plan to begin recording the basic tracks as soon as we get enough songs together.  This way, myself and Max can continue the recording process (recording guitar overdubs, solos, vocals, etc.),when Simon gets busy with his sessions and other music work.   (Simon always gets busy in February and March!). 

Hellion is still actively promoting the new "Karma's A Bitch" Mini-album, too.  We just released a new lyric video.  More videos, which will include live performance videos will be coming soon, too.  Late last year we also released the "Betrayer" video.   We were really happy to see that "Karma's A Bitch" made quite a Radio Stations and Magazines' Top Ten lists.  The response has been GREAT.  And we are considering issuing the "Karma's A Bitch" mini-LP on a limited edition vinyl due to demand!

In 2015, will also be re-releasing some of the classic Hellion CD's that have been out-of-print for a while in the UK through Cherry Red this year.  I am also exploring making the novel for "The Black Book" available when the CD is re-released.  I will know more about this in the coming weeks.

Hellion recorded a number of shows on our North American "Karma's A Bitch" tour in 2014.  After the NAMM show, we hope to begin mixing some of the songs and plan to release them this year.

People have asked me to tell them a little bit about the new Hellion music?  It's still in the very early stages, but, it is my intention that the new record will have more shades and moods than the previous album. 

While, lyrically, "Karma's A Bitch" was about anger, I intend for the next new Hellion music to include story-telling songs -- such as what was done to a small extent on some of the songs on "Screams In The Night" or "The Black Book."  Instead of an album full of basically angry vocals, however, I also want to show a variety of moods -- calm, agony, strength, perseverance, justice, truth, power, retribution, peace . . .   with the lyrics relating different actual experiences -- all at the same time -- -- stacked on top of each other -- so I can feel the intensity of those combined moods when I am singing.  The recording process will be fun.   

This next week I will also be back in touch with our US and overseas agents, and will be making plans to do more shows.  Hellion will be playing the Arcada Theater in Chicago in early May, and there is serious talk about some shows being added around that date (possibly New York and Kansas City). We are also working our tour dates for later in 2015 in Europe and again in America.

In addition to all of this, I am also starting to write a book which is tentatively called, "The Art of Singing Loud."  A long time ago somebody once told me that all great singers have a story -- and that there is usually something in their life experience -- in addition to their raw talent -- that makes it possible for them to connect to people in a special way.   My new book will focus on the lives, stories, and unique experiences of well-known singers who perform metal, heavy rock, punk, thrash, and other music that is similarly demanding.  This is not a book about myself.  Instead, I will be simply the interviewer.  In my book, I will me asking a number of well-known singers about their inspiration, influences, hardships, triumphs, gripes, and even a little bit about recording and live performance.  I think this book is important, because the role of the singer in heavy music, and the unique challenges that singers of heavy music face, are totally unknown to most people.   Doro, Graham Bonnet, and RIpper Owens, are just a few of the people who have agreed to be featured in this book.  I will be announcing more of the names later in a press release.  There is also a chance that this book, and its concept, will lead to a documentary/reality series.

While the beginning of the year will include a lot of behind the scene work, the second half of 2015 will be devoted to Hellion's live performances. 

There is a lot going on.  I'm tired! 

Thanks for checking out my webpage!

Magic Witches,

Ann Boleyn



 
 

Dear Friends,

2014 was a damn good year.  Hellion released the "To Hellion & Back" 2-CD anthology.  Hellion released the "Karma's A Bitch" Mini-Album.  And, Hellion did our first North American tour in decade!   Pretty cool!

What did I learn this year?  I  think the most important thing I learned was that it is very important to surround yourself with people who CARE.  When I say CARE, what I mean is that there is a big difference between people who are concerned about others, and people who just don't give a crap.  I saw it in 2014 in the music business, and I see it elsewhere every day.  In short, PEOPLE WHO DON'T CARE, SUCK.

No matter what you do, it is important to care about things.  I don't care if you are the person who answers the phone when I call in to pay a bill, a promoter who has booked Hellion to perform, a musician who has to learn a song, or a judge who is presiding over the outcome of a million dollar court case.  Everyday we encounter people who care about what they are doing.  Those people make our lives good.  On the other hand, people who don't care make other people's lives miserable, and they suck!

Do I have any resolution for the new year?  My only resolution is to try my best to be a decent human being and to make every day count for something.  Today I spent 15 hours drafting a legal document.  Was it fun?  Hell no!  But, I did my best to represent a worker who was wrongfully terminated from a job and I did my best to make sure that make sure that his story will make sense to the judge who will decide if his case is worthy of going to trial.  Even though the task is time consuming, and even though I'd rather be writing music, I made a commitment to my client to do my best.  I am now hoping that the judge who will ultimately make a decision about my client's lawsuit will care enough about her job to read what I have written and will properly rule in my client's favor.  

I have big plans for 2015.  A couple days ago, Max, Simon, and I began the process of writing new music that we will record and release in 2015.  This is just one of the many plans Hellion has.  

Now I am off to sleep with more work planned for tomorrow.  Before I end this blog, I want to thank everybody who not only supported Hellion in 2014, but who took pride and care in what you did in 2014, no matter what it involved.   I also want to thank the awesome musicians and crew with whom I had the privilege of working with in 2014!   Your care and commitment to your craft as musicians, crew members, booking agents, promoters, and everyone else who cares, makes life good.  

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn

Hi Friends,

Sorry for the delay in posting news.  It's been a crazy few weeks ever since returning from tour!

As, many of you know, in addition to being the singer of Hellion, and of running New Renaissance, I am also an attorney.   I was back to work, and in court on the following Monday after the tour.  However, a lot of work has now paid off with the successful resolution of a major case.  Now its time to get back to working on more creative endeavors and on planning for a great 2015.

In between all of that, Hellion released our first official video in over a decade.  The video is of our new song, Betrayer, and includes fan-filmed video from our shows in Toronto, Los Angeles, Boise, Seattle, and a few more cities.  If you haven't already seen it, check it out here.

Maxxxwell Carlisle, Simon Wright, and myself are already writing new music.  I will also be singing a cover-version of a Scorpions song on Max's new solo CD.  I will be recording the vocal track for that in the next week or two.  

Hellion also recorded the shows from the recent Hellion tour.  So, over the holidays, we will be mixing those tracks and will eventually release them on a live CD.

As far as live shows, Hellion will be playing May 9, 2015 at the Arcadia Theater in St. Charles, IL with Y&T and Quiet Riot.  More US shows will be added, too in 2015.   We will also be doing shows in Europe and the UK.  In fact, we have bookings now through 2016.  Due to our contracts with some of the promoters, I can't announce some of the shows until the promoters officially announce them.

2014 has been a very productive year.  We released two new CDs:  (1) Hellion's "To Hellion & Back" 2-CD anthology; and, (2) "Karma's A Bitch."  Both CDs are available at all major outlets.  We did our first tour in North America, as well.

Both myself and the band have a lot in store for 2015.  We will be releasing our first vinyl releases in over a decade soon (in limited edition).  We will have a new live album, some more re-releases, and of course new music for you, too.

I am also going to start work on a book.   The book will be entitled "The Art of Singing Loud."  The book will focus on the unique challenges that are faced by singers of hard rock, thrash, metal, punk, etc.  An important part of this book will include interviews from well-respected singers,  I have already received commitments from a number of great singers and will be announcing more details in the coming weeks.

I will give everybody more updates, soon.  Meanwhile, please make sure you are on the Hellion mailing list so you don't miss out!  

And, don't miss out on our awesome sale in the Hellion Store, too.  We've put together some killer fan bundles with limited edition tour merchandise.  And, as an added bonus, we will be adding some special gifts with each order.

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn 
On Behalf of Hellion

Dear Friends,

All of the members of Hellion, and the crew, are safe and at home (except for Lee Hollister - who is on tour with the Dead Daisies).  It is good to be back, but I am adjusting to daylight savings time, combined with a "normal" schedule.

I fully intend to tell you more about the tour, but right now I am getting caught up a lot of things -- such as making sure the merchandise orders shipped out, doing interviews, and firming up offers that Hellion has received into 2016! 

I am going to post a few pictures below tonight that were taken on the tour by our friends. Please check back later!

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn



Ann Boleyn

Will post a tour blog soon.  But in the meanwhile, hope to see all the Southern California Hellions tonight!

Hi Everybody!

Hellion arrived this morning in Austin after an overnight drive from Tulsa, Oklahoma.  The people in Tulsa were awesome.  Their hospitality was great and it was wonderful to meet many of the friends who post regularly on our Facebook page, in person.


          Today is our bus driver's birthday.  We all agree that Jeff Bullard (our driver) is THE BEST.


Right now Hellion is preparing for tonight's show in Austin, Texas at a venue called The Dirty Dog.  Check out the pictures (below).



If you are anywhere near Austin, Texas, some out out and say hello.

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn

Hi Everybody,

It's been a busy week with six shows in a row and very bad internet connections.  It is now almost 5 in the morning and we will be leaving soon to head toward Tulsa, Oklahoma for tonight's show.  Since I need to get some sleep, I am just going to post some pictures.  I promise a better detailed update soon.  And, I want to thank everybody who's made it out to our recent shows.

Best Witches,

Ann

Hi Everybody,

Right now Hellion is on the road, heading to Philadelphia.   The picture below is taken from the front widow of the tour bus.

     Hellion would like to thank all of the people who have been coming out to the shows and making  them all very special.  The people at the venues in EVERY CITY we have played so far have been very welcoming.  This includes not only the crowds, but also the staff at the venues.

     Last week Hellion did a special show at Ripper's Rock House in Akron, Ohio.  As a special surprise, Tim "Ripper" Owens came on stage with Hellion.


Hellion would like to thank Ripper, and everybody at Ripper's Rock House for the hospitality, for the great food, and for the old times.  If you are ever in Akron, Ohio, be sure to check out Ripper's Rock House.

We are posting some pictures below that were taken during the last few days:





Check back soon for more updates!  

Best Witches,

Ann

Hi Friends:

Hellion just arrived in Seattle, Washington, after an all-night drive from Spokane.  Tonight we will play at El Corazon, which looks like a kick-ass rock club inside.  Kind of reminds me of the old London Marquee -- but bigger.


Last night we played in Spokane, Washington at "The Hop" (pictured below).  Thanks to everybody in Spokane, Washington for your hospitality and warn welcome!  





On October 7th we played in Chico, California.  Thanks so much to everybody who came out to that show.  I didn't get a chance to take pictures, so if anybody has pix, please post them on Facebook.

Below are some odds and ends of pictures that people have sent to me and/or posted on Facebook.  I'm sorry, but I don't know everybody's names or the locations.




This is a photo that we took before we left L.A. and headed to Chico, CA.




See you all soon!

Ann

Just a quick update.  Today is a day off on this tour.  We are all back in L.A. before heading out on the road again tomorrow at the crack of dawn for Chino, CA at LaSalles.  The first three shows went great.  Meanwhile, I will post some pictures below from those shows (below).







Thanks to Jerry Averill and Rok for the great pictures.

A high point of the tour was seeing two of my favorite people in the world at the show in Vegas . . .

 . . . and having Brenda and Stephanie on board!

Hope to see you at one of the upcoming shows.

-Ann-



 

Hi Everybody,

Hellion's "Karma's A Bitch" tour is underway.  We started out Thursday, October 2nd, at The Whisky!  It was a great show!  My favorite memories include getting to meet old and new friends.  It was GREAT to see Val Gaina, Allie Jorgens, Willie Basse, Charlie Clinger, Johnny Hayes, and so many others.  There is not enough space to name everybody by name.  Thanks also to Jerry Averill for the photo below)!



After the show at the Whisky, the band climbed on the tour bus and headed out o the highway to pick up a trailer to tow behind the bus, before heading off to Vegas.  Between the gear, and the merchandise we are hauling, there just was not enough space on the bus for people to sit!  After getting the trailer, we have more space for the band and crew.

Last night Hellion played at Vamp'd!  Thanks to Leah for the photo (above).  Again, the best part of the show was seeing old friends.  Thanks so very much to Chris Cochrane, Vinny Polselli, and Stephanie Selesnick for coming out to Vamp'd.  Your being at last night's show meant more to me than you can imagine.  



Right now the Hellion tour bus is on the way to Mesa, Arizona, where we will be doing a meet-n-greet, and then a show at Cactus Moon.  I have never done a show in Arizona, so I am really looking forward to it!

I will be posting more blogs as I have time and an internet connection.

Best of Everything,

Ann



 

Hi Friends,

Tomorrow the Hellion North American tour begins at The Whisky.  Fireball Whisky heard a rumor that there are a few Hellions who like their product.  So, they surprised us with a box of Fireball collectables that we are going to share with our friends. 

Its been a hectic week, so this is going to be a short post.  Greg Smith arrived last Sunday, and we rehearsed the same day.  Then we had to change rehearsal studios (not fun), and had two days of rehearsal at a different studio.  I am a big fan of Glenn Hughes, and it was really nice to walk out of our rehearsal room and hear him singing "Burn."  

I have my clothes in order.  My custom-made mic stand arrived.  However, I am still making last minute changes to the set list.  And, Scott is still making edits to the introduction song.  So, there's a lot to do before tomorrow night!

I will be posting updates, as they occur, from the road.  Hope to see you soon.

Best Witches,

Ann

PS:  Thanks to all who voted in Noisecreep's Poll.  We missed the #5 position by 1 vote!  Now a bad start for a band that hasn't had a new album in more than a decade.

Hi Friends,

Just wanted to share the great news.  As of a few minutes ago Hellion's "Karma's A Bitch" became the #2 Most Added song on Metal Radio.  Check out the stations that are playing it! 
 

 

Atlanta Market

WCHZ - Augusta

WKPX - Sunrise

WPRK - Winter Park

WRAS - Atlanta

 

Baltimore Market

WVUD - Newark

WXJM - Harrisburg

 

Boston Market

WHEB - Port Smith

WKKL - West Barnstable

WMPG - Portland

WSCA - Portsmouth

WTCC - Springfield

WUML - Lowell

 

Chicago Market

KFAI - Minneapolis

KIWR - Council Bluff

KSRQ - Thief River

WORT - Madison

WRST - Oshkosh

WSUP -  Platteville

WWSP - Stevens Point

WXAV - Chicago

 

Cleveland Market

WBGU - Bowling Green

WBWC - Berea

WCSB - Cleveland

WJCU - Univ Heights

WRUW - Cleveland

 

Dallas Market

Hard Radio - Dallas

KNON - Dallas

 

San Antonio Market

KSYM - San Antonio

 

Denver Market

KMSA - Grand Junction

KRCL - Salt Lake

Detroit Market

WRIF - Detroit

WHFR - Dearborn

WXUT - Toledo

 

Kansas City Market

KJML - Joplin

KRSA - Claremore

 

Los Angeles Market

KTUH - Honolulu

KXCI - Tucson

 

New York Market

WKGB - Binghampton

WKLL - Utica

WVOX - New Rochelle

WDWN - Auburn

WHPC - Garden City

WONY - Oneonta

WSOU - South Orange

WXCI - Danbury

 

Philadelphia Market

WARC - Meadville

WGLS - Glassboro

WLFR - Pomona

WLVR - Bethlehem

WMUH - Allentown

WRKC - Wilkes Barre

WTSR - Trenton

WXAC - Redding

WXLV - Schnecksville

 

San Francisco Market

KCSS - Turlock

KSFR - Fresno

KGAR - Lemore

 

Seattle Market

KZZE - Medford

KEOL - La Grande

KGLT - Boseman

KWVA - Walla Walla

 

 

 

Hi Friends,

This blog is dedicated to all of the people who get up in the morning, go to work, and keep working when you come home . . . until you have to sleep!  Small business owners . . . students . . . athletes . . . musicians . . . parents . . . artists . . . teachers . . . writers . . . you know who you are!

My day started with a trip to the Los Angeles Superior Court, where I am representing an employee who is suing a major corporation.  My client (who is a woman of color) was a long-term employee of a major corporation and held a management position.    She was denied her annual bonus and fired shortly after she sent an email in which she informed the company that she was being subjected to racism by her supervisor.  She later learned that she had been receiving about two-thirds of the salary as her white-coworkers.   In California it is against the law to retaliate against an employee who reports to their employer that they are being subjected to discrimination.  It is my job to hold the company accountable!





Once inside the court building the attorneys must wait in the hall for the staff to unlock the door of the department (court room) where the case we are "appearing on" is assigned.  As I was waiting in the hall, I could not help notice that most of the support staff at the courthouse (security guards, paralegals, file clerks, assistant clerks, etc.) are women or minorities.




 
On the other hand, most of the attorneys in the hall of the courthouse are old white men with little creativity when it comes to making a wardrobe selection.   Most all have a very phony demeanor consisting of fake chuckles and plastic smiles on the rare occasions when they want to appear polite.  

Today I was appearing on a civil rights case.   The opposing attorney was a young woman who I am guessing is only a year or two out of law school.  She works for one of the largest law firms in town and carries one of the largest Louie Vuitton handbags I've ever seen.  The major law firms pay their young associates well, but they also typically demand that they work 12 - 16 hours a day.  Some firms even have sleeping rooms available for the attorneys who have to work around the clock and don't have time to go home.  

Even though the opposing attorney did a good job, the Judge's "tentative decision" went my way.  However, there is no way to know what the final decision will be until the judge issues his ruling.





It was a beautiful fall morning when I left court.  The picture above is of the City Hall of Los Angeles.





I could not help but think about the 9-11 anniversary as I saw this flag on a crane that is standing over a construction site.





Back at "the office" I began the job of doing more legal work, and packaging posters for the Hellion tour, which will be sent to the promoters.   I am no where near closed to being done.  





As I was working on legal and music business matters, Max, Georg, and Simon got together to go over some of the old Hellion songs that we will be performing live on tour.  We will be playing some old songs as well as the five new songs from the "Karma's A Bitch" mini-album.

Speaking of the new "Karma's A Bitch" CD, iTunes is offering s special deal:  preorder the mini-album for only $2.99 -- and get the "Karma's A Bitch" single today instantly (before everybody else).  Or, you can now buy the single for 99 cents and have it instantly.  To take advantage of this offer click here.



By almost 9:00 p.m., I was still working on "mail outs" -- when I ran out of envelopes.  Thankfully the local office supply place is open until 9:00 p.m.!







After that, I had to make a quick pit-stop for food.

Now it's close to midnight, and It's time to start thinking about sleep.  Thanks so much to everybody for your support!

Best Witches,

Ann

 


 

Hi Friends,

This is going to be a short update because I am tired and its time for bed.  One of the outfits that I designed is now complete, thanks to the help and artistry of Al Bane.  The shirt/dress above is an updated version of a shirt I designed years ago.   For the new one, we made the length longer.  And, instead of purple feathers, I chose these ones which are blue and black.  You can't see it, but the garment laces up the sides.  So far, this is my favorite piece of the new items.



In between all the work, Garfiled is forever reminding me that he is hungry and/or wants snacks!  I will miss Garfield and Gizmo when I am on tour.



When I got home after running errands today I had a very very, nice surprise!  As you probably know, quite a few people in the Hellion organization like Fireball Whisky.  The nice folks at Fireball Whisky learned about this and sent us some fireball collectables to help us make Hellion's first show of our tour (which is also our Record Release Party!) extra fun!  We will have to think up a good slogan.  Any ideas?  

Got to get to bed!  After all, tomorrow's Fireball Friday!

Best Witches,

Ann

Hi Everybody,

It's been a hectic last few days!  Last week we announced that Greg Smith (pictured above) will be joining us on our North American tour due to Bjorn Englen having a prior commitment to play with Tony McAlpine (which created a schedule conflict).  Many of you most likely know Greg from his work with Alice Cooper, Rainbow, Blue Oyster Cult, and other great bands.  



Last Thursday myself, Maxxxwell Carlisle, and some friends were guests of Allie Jorgen and Roc Boyum from (La' Reverie) at the wrap party for the up-coming haunted house movie entitled Lake Eerie.  The event was held at the Foundation Room of the House of Blues in Hollywood.  While we were there, we also got to hear Allie and Roc's band, who contributed music to the movie's soundtrack.

In between the fun, however, was a lot of work.  Some of the mundane activities included getting prices and placing orders for new Hellion tour merchandise, making sure that deadlines are being met with respect to the printing of posters, key chains, and other Hellion merch items, checking in progress of clothing that is being made for me to wear on the tour, selecting a list of Hellion songs to learn before our rehearsals begin, doing interviews, listening to Hellion songs (and making sure I remember the words), reviewing contracts, answering email, talking with Brenda Starr (our street team coordinator), and so much more.

 
The "generic" posters for Hellion's North American "Karma's A Bitch" tour arrived this afternoon.  These posters are being provided to the promotors, and to the members of our street team in the cities where Hellion will play in October.  The white space at the bottom of the poster is intentionally left blank to allow people to write in the date and name of the venue where Hellion will be playing.  

A few people have already been asking if they can buy one of these posters.  We will be putting these posters up for sale in the Hellion store for $5.00.    



We also just received these key-chain/bottle-openers which have the "Karma's A Bitch" logo on them.  We are including these along with a "Karma's A Bitch" tee-shirt, sticker, and CD in a fan-pack.  They may also be purchased separately.



Simon Wright has been on tour this last month with Geoff Tate's band, Operation Mindcrime.  He arrived at Los Angeles International airport last Sunday -- just in time for the holiday weekend.

 
Shotty, who was also on tour with Geoff Tate, returned to Los Angeles with Simon.  Shotty is one of the people who will be part of Hellion's entourage in October.  



On Labor Day, Simon and I celebrated by going to Stout Burgers & Brew, and then to the Rainbow Bar & Grill for their famous pizza.   Yes, it was dark inside the Rainbow - but the picture seemed to best capture holiday spirit.  (No -- this was not the result of too much Fireball Whisky!).

Well the week is already here, and I have lots more work to do before bed!  Look for another update soon!

Best Witches,

Ann 

Hi Friends!

Another super-busy day!  Started off with a trip to the company that manufactures the Hellion CDs for New Renaissance Records.  


Happy to say that the Hellion promo CDs are on their way to Munsey at Skateboard Management in New York.  Munsey is handling out radio promotion in the USA and Canada.


Next stop was a visit to my favorite cheese shop to pick up a salad and . . . cheese.  Kirstan is saying "hi" to Simon Wright, who also likes cheese.  Simon's on the road right now with Operation: Mindcrime (formerly known as Geoff Tate's Queensryche).  No cheese for Simon, at least from this shop, until he gets back to L.A. in September.


Next stop is at the gym for a workout with my trainer, Ann.  Ssshhhhhhhhh . . . don't tell her about the cheese!

Don't forget to sign up on the Hellion Mailing List.  Also, remember to get your free download of a Hellion song each day from the Hellion Web Site.  (You can get your free download two ways:  Either click the link on the bottom of the Hellion page where it says "free," or follow the links at the top of the Hellion Official website, which will take you to a Soundcloud page.)

For those of you who want to pre-order the new Hellione "Karma's A Bitch" CD, the link is here.  Have a great weekend!

Thanks again,

Ann Boleyn
on behalf of Hellion

Dear Friends,

I don't generally post pictures of food, but, tonight is an exception.  After a very long day of work, having some sushi was my well-deserved reward. 

I worked until about five in the morning last night with the goal of adding a little surprise that will make our October tour dates extra fun for our friends.   After being awakened at seven in the morning, I continued at my various tasks on about two hours of sleep.  And, a little while after waking up learned that my hard work paid off.  I am not in the position to tell you the details now, but I will be sharing my reason for excitement as the tour approaches. 

That's all for tonight folks.  I'm off to sleep!

Best Witches,

Ann
 

Hi Friends,

Another busy day getting read for the Hellion tour.   I started the day getting some exercise (see above).  After that I went to purchase some feathers that are needed to complete one of my new wardrobe items.  And, I met with the designer, Al Bane.

After that, I met with a company that I am working with to provide some jewelry items.  Over the years a lot of people have asked me where they can buy some of the jewelry items that I wear when I perform.  We will soon be adding a Hellion logo necklace to our merchandise items, as well as some other items that are sterling silver with crystals and semi-prescious stones.  My goal with regard to the jewelry items is to keep the cost down, while providing nice quality items.  


The picture (above) is a nice sized quartz crystal with four semi-prescious stones that are attached with sterling silver.  It is pictured here with a "snake" chain.   I like the snake chain because it does not get tangled up in my hair.  


The second necklace (pictured above) is an amethyst crystal that can be used for a necklace.  This is like one that I frequently wear.  It is just under two inches long.  It is available with or without the chain.  For more information, please see the Hellion Store.

By the way, please make sure to obtain your free MP3 download.  Every day until the "Karma's A Bitch" tour begins, we will be giving away a different Hellion song for free download.  We are hoping this will spread the word about our music, and if you like it, you will purchase more music from the Hellion Store.  Today's free download is "Run For Your Life."  You can obtain your free download by clicking on the "free" button at the bottom of the pages on the official Hellion site, or by clicking here, and then clicking again on the link that says free download (which will connect you to the sound cloud page).

Also, please make sure to check out our new contests.  And, make sure you are on our mailing list.

Right now I am going to sign out, since I have a lot more work to do tonight.  Among other things, Hellion is working on some brand integration (sponsorship) deals for the tour and other future events.  More news on that soon!

Thanks again for visiting our web page!  

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn
on behalf of Hellion

 

Hi Friends,

Started the day off having breakfast on the patio of a local cafe.  During breakfast Simon sent a text with a picture of the Mississippi river where he was sitting - watching it flow by.  (See Below).



Simon is touring with Operation: Mindcrime, formerly known as Geoff Tate's Queensryche.  Today is a day off for them.  They are heading for Dallas after an excellent show yesterday.

By the time my food was brought to my table, it was already too hot on the outside patio.  I ate quickly and took my coffee to go.  

By the time I got back to my office, Al Bane, a clothing designer was on the phone.  He is re-creating and updating some of my favorite stage clothing items.  He was on his way to purchase some leather and reminded me that I need to purchase the feathers that are necessary to recreate one of the garments I am particularly fond of.  (Add that to my to-do list).

Every day before Hellion's tour, we are giving away a free-download of a different Hellion song.  Today's free download is "Screams In The Night."   Naturally we want you to buy Hellion's CDs.  But, we also are aware that many people already have some CDs (which they purchased) but that they don't have the files on their iPhones, etc.  

This is our way of saying thank you for your support.  Take advantage of this while you can by clicking here.  We usually change the song around mid-day.  Tomorrow, there will be a different song in the afternoon, and today's free song will no longer be free.

Next up, I learned that the "tray cards" and "CD booklets" which were supposed to have already been delivered to our CD manufacture in Los Angeles, had not been.  Even though Hellion's "Karma's A Bitch" CD is not set to be released until October 7, 2014, we need to make the actual CDs in time for them to be reviewed.  (This could be a problem!)

Next, I spoke with Brenda Starr, who coordinates our Street team.  It looks like Hellion's HELL-Pers are hard at work.  For example, in Seattle, one of Hellion's HELL-pers is posting flyers up at Microsoft, where he works.    (See the picture below).

 

Next up was a phone call with Todd Nakamine, who is in charge of our media relations.  He told me I will be doing a series of interviews and the first ones start up tomorrow.  I also will be interviewed on Willie Basse's radio show, Tales From The Sunset Strip tomorrow night at 9:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.  This will be live (streaming) on the internet.  If you want to listen, please click here.

My next jobs were very mundane -- the kind you like to put off!  I had to put in a call to my car insurance company to make a claim (after somebody sideswiped me a few days ago).  I also need to have my cell phone repaired or replaced.  I also had to return numerous email messages and handle enquiries from customers about their merchandise orders, and to following up on my enquiries about pricing for new merchandise items we are ordering for the tour.

Later this afternoon I also spoke on the phone with Georg Dolivo, who is playing rhythm guitar as a special guest on Hellion's tour in October.  He and Maxxxwell Carlisle are working together to learn the songs and arrange the guitar parts for the tour.  Meanwhile I am also putting together a set list so that Maxxxwell, Simon, Georg, Scott, and Greg can learn the songs in time to be prepared for rehearsals.  We will only have less than a week to rehearse before the tour, so everybody will have to come prepared, and with their homework done.

By the end of the day I learned that the missing CD booklets and tray cards had not yet shipped from the printer, who is in Canada.   Hopefully they will ship tomorrow.  (Add that to the list for tomorrow!)

Right now its almost 8:30 p.m. in Los Angeles and it's time to answer some email before returning back to work on the set list  and also reviewing and "red-lining" a contract that must be returned to our booking agent (sorry Jan and Mark!)!

Til tomorrow!

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn
on behalf of Hellion



 

 

Hi Friends,

Another busy day getting ready for Hellion's "Karma's A Bitch" tour!

Early in the morning, Simon Wright emailed me that he was in Salem, Mass. and keeping his eyes out for witches.  He said that the Operation: Mindcrime show was packed last night.  

Next, I handled a very mundane task -- getting a device so I can strap my cell phone to my arm so I don't lose it when I'm on the road!  Back in my days of marathons I used one of these things and it seemed to work well.  Mission accomplished!

By the time I was able to get to a place I go to get exercise it was close to 100 degrees!  Too hot to run, so I walked the 5 miles!  

During my walk I talked to Brenda Starr on the phone.  Brenda is organizing Hellion's street team and she is doing a great job.   PS:  Brenda told me that the street team in Ottawa, Canada, are doing an especially great job.  (Can't wait to play there!)   

We also discussed some contests and ways that our friends can participate is spreading the word about the new CD and tour -- even if you do not live near a city where Hellion will be playing.  

The first contest is very simple.  Just sign up for Hellion's e-mail mailing list between now and September 15, 2014, and you will be entered into a raffle for free merchandise.  You can sign up for Hellion's mailing list here.  We will be announcing a new contest tomorrow.

Also, beginning on Sunday, August 17th there will be a link at the top of the official Hellion page where you can download Hellion music for FREE.   Each day the songs will change.  Many of the songs are ones that Hellion will be performing live on tour.  Take advantage of this while you can!  This is the link to get your free song.

Later in the day I went to see Al Bane who is helping me with the design and creation of leather items for my tour wardrobe.  I designed 80% of the clothing I have worn over the years.   However, some of my favorite items are worn out.  Al is helping me re-create and update some of my favorite pieces.  

After I got home, I listened to an excellent soundtrack that Scott Warren is working on.  I also continued putting together the Hellion set list for the tour.

Right now its getting close to 10:30 p.m. and I can feel a slight sunburn!  Time to sign off the computer and get back to work on preparing the set list.

Until tomorrow!

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn



 

 Hi Friends,

My day started early today at 6:45 a.m. with loads of email to answer.  Right now I am getting the stage props together, getting a new backdrop made, and other such things. 

This morning I also approved two new merch items for the upcoming Hellion tour.  These are keychains and also a Hellion logo necklace.   When they arrive, they will be available in the Hellion Store.

Among the many pre-tour tasks, I am also working on the set list for the tour.  If you want to hear any songs, please post on the Hellion Facebook page.

This weekend we will also be posting details about some new contests and a link for those of you who want to be on our street team. 

I will be interviewed this Tuesday evening on Willie Basse's Tales From The Sunset Strip internet radio program.  It will be streaming live.  It can be heard anywhere in the world as long as you have internet.  For more information, click here.

In a few minutes I will head out to see my personal trainer for a pre-tour get-in-shape session at the gym. I am working out using an innovative program that requires 2 to 3 minutes of continuous very heavy lifting in each muscle section without a break (and usually to the point of muscle failure).  This is different than the typical gym session which involves repeated sets with breaks in between.  It's a great program.  But, after each session, my muscles are so spent that I'm usually shaking, which makes typing and thinking a little difficult.  Therefore, I'm posting now.

Have an awesome weekend and Don't Take No For An Answer!

Best Witches,

Ann Boleyn
on behalf of Hellion