Sum 41 To Kick-Off New Run Of Guitar Center Sessions Episodes 5/28

Guitar Center (http://www.guitarcenter.com), the world's largest musical instrument retailer, and DIRECTV, the world's most popular video service, today announced a new series of episodes of the award-winning music series Guitar Center Sessions . Guitar Center Sessions features exclusive performances and intimate, enlightening conversations conducted by revered musical tastemaker Nic Harcourt. The first of seven episodes features Sum 41, premiering Saturday, May 28 at 10pm ET/PT in 2D hi-definition on DIRECTV'S The 101 Network (channel 101) and in 3D on DIRECTV'S n3D powered by Panasonic. A sneak preview of the Sum 41 episode and exclusive performance of their hit single "Screaming Bloody Murder" can be seen at http://www.guitarcenter.com/session. Other upcoming episodes include: Peter Frampton, Bad Religion, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Saint Motel, Social Distortion and the incomparable Blondie.

Continuing its commitment to inspiring musicians, each episode of Guitar Center Sessions is filmed live in front of a studio audience in the world famous Guitar Center Hollywood Vintage Room. The show gives real music fans a rare peak inside the minds of their idols, with Harcourt's thoughtful, conversational questions drawing out new and intimate details from their storied careers. Audiences hear first-hand accounts from each artist about their personal and musical journeys and the influences that molded them into the icons they have become. "Sitting down to talk with Nic felt like a great discussion with a friend, not an inquisition," says Peter Frampton. "I can honestly say it was the best interview of my entire career to date."

"In addition to the incredible live performances Guitar Center Sessions captures, the conversations with these artists are about delving deeper and by providing a window into the creative process, inspiring other musicians," says Harcourt. "Hearing the stories behind some of the great artists of our time--from their perspective--is revealing and fascinating"

Started by high school friends who found a common bond in their love of punk bands like the Sex Pistols and the Ramones, Sum 41 is now in the second decade of a career highlighted by multi-platinum worldwide sales, two JUNO Awards (Canada's equivalent of a GRAMMY) and a devoted fan base. Sitting down with Harcourt, lead singer Deryck Whibley discusses the band's beginnings as he cherry-picked the best players from other local groups to form Sum 41, how touring and a love of performing is the driving force for the band today, and what success means in an uncertain music business climate.