As War with Iraq Begins, Former New York Club Singer And Songwriter Dedicates Release of Inspirational Album 'Thankful' to U.S. Troops Away From Home PR Newswire -- March 20, 2003 NEW YORK, March 20/PRNewswire/ --As U.S. troops stationed abroad assume battle stations in war with Iraq, an inspirational album of songs celebrating freedom has been dedicated in honor of American servicemen and women. "Thankful," the title track of the album written and performed by Michael Farr, the son of a former army captain, will be released this week on the World Wide Web at www.IamThankful.com and to the Armed Forces Radio Network which broadcasts to the U.S. military stationed overseas. "My inspiration for this song was to counterbalance all the negative issues that have led us into war, with a celebration of all the freedoms we can sometimes take for granted," Farr said. "Even though there have been mixed emotions about taking steps that could lead us into conflict abroad, we have to be thankful for the men and women in our military, who, regardless of politics, are prepared to risk their lives for the very fabric of the freedoms we cherish," Farr added. "Thankful" was produced and engineered by Bil VornDick who has produced for over 46 Grammy finalists, eight Grammy winners, and various multiple Gold and Platinum albums. VornDick has worked for a "who's who" of artists from Bob Dylan to James Taylor and from Bela Fleck to Glen Yarborough and Ralph Stanley. His accomplishments have led to #1 records in five different styles of music. "I predict that 'Thankful' will be the feel-good album of the year," VornDick said. Independent music label, 4 elements music, has signed a multi-record recording contract with Michael Farr. "Michael's music is perfectly in tune with what we are facing as a nation and as a people," said Jack Bracewell, Executive Producer of 4 elements music. "It comes at a time that we're most in need of the powerful message of hope and promise that 'Thankful' delivers," Bracewell added. Other inspirational songs on the "Thankful" album include, "Light U Seek," "Sweet Sunshine," "Letters," "Annie," "Still With Me," and the Cat Stevens standard, "Moonshadow." Each treated with the earthy guitar style, intuitive lyrics and sweet soulful voice of Michael Farr. The album hits stores in June but can be listened to immediately at www.IamThankful.com CONTACT: Mark Hopkinson, +1-561-750-9800, ext. 15, or MHopkinson@transmediagorup.com