Singer celebrates CD sales

7/28/2005

Toledo-reared singer Lyfe Jennings is celebrating his CD titled "268-192" reaching gold status by hosting a public "Certified Gold Party" in his hometown.

The event, to be held Saturday from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the downtown COSI science center, celebrates the high sales of his narrative soul CD, named after the number he was assigned in prison. The CD showcases Lyfe's acoustic guitar skills and raspy voice and tackles issues such as fatherhood, street life, and relationships.

To reach gold status, the recording industry requires an album's sales to reach at least 500,000. The album, just released in Canada and to be released in the UK in September, has sold well over 600,000 copies, according to his label, Columbia's Sony Urban Music.

"I watched the sales every week in Billboard [magazine], so I knew the exact week it was coming," Lyfe said in a telephone interview. "A couple people from Sony called and my family was excited and congratulated me."

Admission is $20 at the door. Information: 419-244-2674.

Lyfe's "Certified Gold Party" is scheduled from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. (doors open at 9 p.m.) Saturday at COSI, 1 Discovery Way, in downtown Toledo.

Celebrants are encouraged to wear gold for a discounted admission. Admission: $20 at the door. Information: 419-244-2674.