Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) today announced a series of three summer events to celebrate hip-hop music and the community that surrounds it. The Zune Live at the BBQ series will give fans an opportunity to see top hip-hop artists for free in a unique outdoor environment with music, games and, true to the series' name, a barbecue. The concert hits Los Angeles on July 12, Chicago on July 22, and New York City on Aug. 4. Viral invitations will be sent to fans, and they will be asked to register at a special Web site to receive their ticket.

"These summer concerts are a great way for Zune to bring fans together with the artists they love," said Chris Stephenson, general manager of Global Marketing for Zune at Microsoft. "It's a way to show our appreciation to the hip-hop community for its support of the Zune(TM) brand and to bring the music to life for fans."


Artists confirmed to participate in Live at the BBQ include Common, David Banner, UGK, Mos Def, Bilal, Clipse, Collie Budz, E-40, Cham, and Large Professor. Additional artists are being confirmed, and fans can expect a few surprises along the way.


"Live at the BBQ is helping to bring hip-hop back to a golden age where records were produced and iconic artists rose directly out of their local communities," said UGK member Bun B. "It's a chance to put singles, ringtones and industry hype aside and just get a bunch of our friends together for some great music and barbecue. Let's eat."


More information about Live at the BBQ is available at http://www.zune.net/.