By OnMilwaukee Staff Writers   Published Feb 19, 2009 at 3:13 PM

The other day, we told you about Banshee Music's foray into greeting cards.

Today, it's the Kentucky Derby -- the Super Bowl of horse racing.

Banshee announced a strategic partnership with Churchill Downs Inc., parent company of the historic racetrack that hosts the Kentucky Derby, to formulate an official soundtrack for the 135th Run for the Roses.

Banshee Music has composed 15 full songs in a multitude of musical styles for thoroughbred racing's premier event, which takes place May 2 in Louisville. The selections include the official infield party anthem and the theme for the Derby's companion event, the Kentucky Oaks, which runs May 1.  

The complete Kentucky Derby 135 Playlist will be available here in March.

"Music is an important element of the Kentucky Derby experience, as is evidenced by the long-standing and dearly held tradition of Derby guests singing ‘My Old Kentucky Home' prior to the race's start," said Dave Tompkins, Churchill Downs Incorporated's chief marketing officer.

"Banshee has been instrumental in helping us develop music as another extension of the Kentucky Derby brand.  Banshee's creative team has created a playlist of unique, catchy and highly entertaining songs that our fans can associate with the Kentucky Oaks and Derby, whether they are celebrating our marquee events in the infield ‘People's Party,' along Millionaires Row or at home with their friends and family at Derby parties around the world.

"We believe music is a fantastic way to connect with younger fans and expose them to the Derby brand through an entertainment option they regularly consume.  We are excited to release the official Kentucky Derby 135 playlist next month and build anticipation for Derby week in the weeks leading up to ‘The Run for the Roses'."

Mountain Dew has announced plans to give away free downloads of the official infield party anthem on 12 million regionally-distributed cans leading up to Derby Weekend.

Banshee has earned raves for its innovative, non-traditional approach to the music industry. Its growing list of clients include professional and collegiate sports teams and venues, as well as brand clients.

"The Kentucky Derby represents one of the greatest traditions and most iconic events in all of sports," said John Canaday, Banshee Music's director of sports marketing.

"We are thrilled to partner with Churchill Downs Incorporated to deliver original and unforgettable music that will give fans, spectators, viewers and sponsors a new platform to experience the Derby and remember it on a year-round basis."