Press release: November 18, 2006

Miko Marks Named Best New Country Artist
Music Weekly Awards Held in Hollywood

- November 18, 2006 - Nashville, TN - - African American country recording artist, Miko Marks, dazzled at the New Music Weekly Awards, where she was named Best New Country Artist. Miko is the first black woman ever to receive an award for achievement in country music. The award comes on the heels of her successful debut album, Freeway Bound, and a busy year of touring.

Dressed in a feminine gray slip dress under embroidered black tulle, Miko walked the red carpet at Hollywood's historic Avalon Theater before the 4th annual awards program. Her dress was provided by the San Francisco boutique of Margaret O'Leary, which carries fashions by O'Leary and designers such as Cynthia Steffe, Graham & Spence, Erica Tanov and others. A Bay Area resident, Miko was thrilled to show off the work of a local designer. "Their clothes are so simple yet elegant. They really make you feel beautiful", said the rising country star.

Adding to the sparkle in her eyes, Miko was radiant in an estimated one million dollars worth of diamonds from the Varna Jewelry collection. Revered platinum-smith and jewelry designer, Garo Chividjian, personally selected two diamond solitaries, bracelets and a stunning diamond choker for the event. The Los Angeles jewelry designer immigrated to the United States from Bulgaria in 1980 and is regarded as one of the top in his field. On the red carpet, Miko flashed her "bling" and exclaimed, "I feel like a million dollars ... literally!"

As the first nominee performer of the night, Miko rocked the house with the title cut form her debut CD, Freeway Bound. The star-studded program was hosted by American Idol's Carmen Rasmusen and syndicated radio host Buck McCoy. Celebrity presenters and attendees included Steven Seagal, Judy Tenuta, Frank Stallone, Sally Savalas and others.

As a songwriter, Miko's lyrics are personal and intimate, delivered by a voice is clear and riveting. Miko is already working on songs for her sophomore album to be recorded in Nashville.

Visit Miko's site at www.mikomarks.com or at
www.myspace.com/mikkomarks

For more on Varna jewelry, visit www.varna.com For more on Margaret O'Leary designs and boutiques, visit www.margaretoleary.com For more on the New Music Awards, visit www.newmusicweekly.com