Pitchfork

With iPhone-mania currently sweeping the geekier sectors of the nation, what's a (sorta) rival gadget to do to compete? If you're the Zune, the answer is unplugging for a second and using your brand to host a series of live, non-streaming/buffering hip-hop shows in Chicago, L.A., and New York City.

"Live at the BBQ" is the name of the series, and the shows will take place tonight (July 12) in L.A., July 21 in Chicago, and August 4 in NYC. The venues are secret, but the "BBQ" organizers will reveal them two days prior to the shows to those who sign up here.

Likewise, specific lineups are unconfirmed except for the event in L.A., which will feature Common, David Banner, UGK, E-40, Collie Buddz, and other special guests. Performers in other cities include Clipse, Lupe Fiasco, Mos Def, Lil Jon, Cham, Large Professor, and Joell Ortiz.

Other than these shows' existence, one more thing is confirmed: there will indeed be barbecue.