May 13^th, 2002 (12:00am) - Microsoft Game Studios announced today it will partner with legendary musician and producer Nile Rodgers to distribute and market the audio soundtrack for its mega-hit Xbox video game, "Halo: Combat Evolved". Thanks Music 4 Games. Under the agreement, Rodgers’ Sumthing Distribution will manufacture and handle retail marketing, sales, and distribution of the "Halo: Combat Evolved" soundtrack CD on the Sumthing Else Musicworks label. The soundtrack is set for release on June 11 at music retailers nationwide. The editors of Rolling Stone recently named "Halo: Combat Evolved" as the video game with the "Best Original Soundtrack" for 2001.

Legendary producer/artist/entrepreneur Nile Rodgers, CEO of Sumthing Distribution, said "Our expertise in distribution to our national retailers in combination with Microsoft’s online capability will guarantee a successful launch of the soundtrack for ’Halo: Combat Evolved’."

Andy Uterano, president of Sumthing Distribution, envisions a long-lasting relationship with Microsoft: "This soundtrack has a lot of elements to it - cool drum beats, techno sounds and orchestral score - that weave a recurring theme. Bungie composer Marty O’Donnell approached this soundtrack like he would a film, and the outcome is awesome!"

We are ecstatic to have the soundtrack for Halo: Combat Evolved available to our fans," said Steve Fowler, Bungie product manager. "With well over one million copies of ’Halo: Combat Evolved’ sold, we are sure there will be great demand for this amazing soundtrack."

Award winning record producer Nile Rodgers is one of the most prolific music producers in history. Nile’s production accomplishments include such diverse artists as Diana Ross, Madonna, David Bowie, Duran Duran, The B52’s, David Lee Roth, Grace Jones, Mick Jagger and many more. Records produced by Nile Rodgers have sold well over 100 million worldwide. As a founding member of the perennial Rhythm & Blues dance band, Chic, Nile co-wrote many of its big hits including "Le Freak" and "Good Times", as well as "We Are Family" for Sister Sledge. In addition to records, he has also scored or produced music for numerous films, including "Coming to America", "Thelma and Louise", "The Flintstones", "Beverly Hills Cop" and "Rush Hour II" as well as a variety of television shows and commercials. Nile is a board member of several organizations including the National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS). Currently, Nile is producing a new album for Duran Duran, yet still finds the time to run his own record label and distribution company.

The Halo Soundtrack’s official release date is June 11th.