Hallmark, Grammy Winner Partner For Valentine’s Day CD Launch
Hallmark has forged a new partnership with Grammy Award-winner Martina McBride by which she is the featured artist for its 2005 Valentine’s Day CD, My Heart, to be released this month. 
The album will include eight songs, including two exclusive tracks and will be sold in Hallmark Gold Crown stores from Jan. 24 through Feb. 14. Shoppers who buy three greeting cards can purchase the CD for $6.95. The disk retails for $10.95.
“We are delighted about joining forces with such a highly-respected and talented artist,” said Ann Herrick, integrated marketing manager at Hallmark, in a statement. “Based on consumer feedback, Martina McBride was our No. 1 choice, and we think she will be a perfect fit for this year’s Valentine’s Day music CD.”
McBride earned her fourth award from the Country Music Association in 2004 as Female Vocalist of the Year award. During her career, the country music star has sold more than 13 million albums.
Kansas City-based Hallmark, RCA Record Label of Nashville and CRN International of Hamden, CT, will sponsor two sweepstakes to coincide with the CD release. The sweeps, which go live later this month, will award 50 trips for two to see McBride at the 2005 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, as well as 155 Ovation guitars autographed by the singer.
The sweeps will be supported on-air via select country and adult contemporary music stations in a total of 205 markets starting Jan. 24. TV and radio spots, Internet and in-store materials also support.
