Derrik J. Lang
Kanye West says he's not concerned about whether his new album is a blockbuster, because he's made "great art" — and he feels really good about it.
West's new CD, "808s & Heartbreak," was released Monday. It's a departure for the 31-year-old rapper because it mostly features him singing.
West says he was ready to take a risk and he thinks it paid off.
Says West: "You know people sometimes don't understand great art when they first hear it, but I am very confident in it. Whether it sells as much as the last one, or way more, I feel like I am just successful in doing something I felt really good about."
___
On the Net: http://www.kanyeuniversecity.com/
Monday, December 22, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
McCartney Lashes Out at 'meat-eating' Dalai Lama
In his never-ending fight for the cause of vegetarianism, Beatle Sir Paul McCartney has lashed out at The Dalai Lama for eating meat – and supposedly contradicting his Buddhist beliefs.The famous singer initially tried to convert the Tibetian Spiritual leader to vegetarianism, insisting that it was “wrong” to eat meat.
In his tirade, McCartney wrote to The Dalai Lama to highlight that meat eaters create suffering for animals, and that this fact contradicted a basic tenant of Buddhism that its followers should “not cause suffering to any sentient beings”.
When the Dalai Lama explained that he had been told by doctors to eat meat for health reasons, this wasn’t enough for the passionate superstar.
"I found out he was not a vegetarian, so I wrote to him saying 'Forgive me for pointing this out, but if you eat animals then there is some suffering somewhere along the line'.” He told prospect magazine.
"He replied saying that his doctors had told him he needed it, so I wrote back saying they were wrong."
The high profile champion of the vegetarian cause has not made his invective exclusive to his holiness; he recently labeled celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay “stupid” for making disparaging comments about the vegetarian cause.
Entertainment Editor Jesse Perez: So we have got Macca attacking the Dalai Lama, and Ringo Starr refusing to respond to fan mail, and abusing fans.
Is it just me, or are the remaining Beatles turning into a bunch of dicks?
Source: livenews.com.au
Monday, December 15, 2008
"American Idol" Changes Its Tune A Little
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – Fox is readying to announce some "American Idol" format changes.The tweaks have been rumored online thanks to a memo leaked to a fan site. With the show's premiere set for January 13, the network is set to reveal the plans at a news conference on Monday. The changes include:
-- Fewer audition episodes and more Hollywood-round episodes. The shift increases the show's emphasis on talented performers and shies further away from the crash-and-burn spectacle of less-talented attention-seekers.
-- To further emphasize the focus on the most talented singers, the semifinalist rounds will feature the top 36 contestants instead of 24.
-- Adding some unpredictability, the "wild card" round will return, which gives eliminated contestants a chance to come back into the competition for one of the top finalist spots.
-- The network will not air an "Idol Gives Back" charity telecast next year, but does plan to hold the event in the show's ninth season. Moving forward, "Gives Back" will become an every-other-year event.
Earlier this year, Fox announced the addition of a fourth judge (songwriter Kara DioGuardi) and the departure of executive producer Nigel Lythgoe. The network doesn't expect the changes to result in a ratings reversal for the six-year-old show -- which has withstood broadcast's overall ratings erosion better than most -- but hopes the shake-up helps stem whatever audience drain might otherwise occur.
Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
- American Idol Season 5 (Various Artists - 2006)
- American Idol 2 - All Time Classic Love Songs (Various Artists - 2003)
- American Idol Greatest Moments (Various Artists - 2002)
- American Idol Season 4 the Showstoppers (Various Artists - 2005)
- American Street Idol (Ty Wills - 2005)
- American Rap Idol (Ill Tactics - 2006)
- American Idol Season 3 (Greatest Soul Classics) (Various Artists - 2004)
No-Show Queen Of Soul Pipes Up At Benefit Concert
NEW YORK – Organizers of a military benefit concert in New York say Aretha Franklin missed an award presentation but showed up for the main event hours later.The Queen of Soul was a no-show when she was to receive the Torch of Freedom Award on Sunday in Times Square. The award was given by the Soldiers', Sailors', Marines', Coast Guard and Airmen's Club.
A spokesman for the concert organizers says Franklin went on as scheduled later at the Nokia Theatre. She performed "New York, New York," a medley of military tunes and her classic "Respect."
It's unclear why Franklin missed the earlier engagement. Her publicist didn't immediately return messages.
___
On the Net:
Military club: http://www.ssmaclub.org/
Monday, December 8, 2008
Toto - "Africa" Music Video
Music video for "Africa" by Toto. From the album "TOTO IV". This song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in February 1983.
©Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Inc
Official Toto Website -- www.toto99.com
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Kid Rock "All Summer Long" Music Video
The Official Music Video for Kid Rock's "All Summer Long" off his album ROCK N ROLL JESUS
Friday, December 5, 2008
Yes We Can - Barack Obama Music Video
Congratulations, Mr. President.
-Lyrics-
It was a creed written into the founding documents that declared the destiny of a nation.
Yes we can.
It was whispered by slaves and abolitionists as they blazed a trail toward freedom.
Yes we can.
It was sung by immigrants as they struck out from distant shores and pioneers who pushed westward against an unforgiving wilderness.
Yes we can.
It was the call of workers who organized; women who reached for the ballots; a President who chose the moon as our new frontier; and a King who took us to the mountaintop and pointed the way to the Promised Land.
Yes we can to justice and equality.
Yes we can to opportunity and prosperity.
Yes we can heal this nation.
Yes we can repair this world.
Yes we can.
We know the battle ahead will be long, but always remember that no matter what obstacles stand in our way, nothing can stand in the way of the power of millions of voices calling for change.
We have been told we cannot do this by a chorus of cynics...they will only grow louder and more dissonant ........... We've been asked to pause for a reality check. We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope.
But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope.
Now the hopes of the little girl who goes to a crumbling school in Dillon are the same as the dreams of the boy who learns on the streets of LA; we will remember that there is something happening in America; that we are not as divided as our politics suggests; that we are one people; we are one nation; and together, we will begin the next great chapter in the American story with three words that will ring from coast to coast; from sea to shining sea --
Yes. We. Can.
Bruce Springsteen "Working" On A New Hit
NEW YORK (Billboard) – Triple A radio, a format targeted at older rock fans, has been kind to Bruce Springsteen in the past decade.
The good vibes continue this week for "Working on a Dream," the first single and title track from the Boss' upcoming album, which comes out on January 27 via Columbia. "Dream" debuted at No. 13 on trade publication Radio & Records' Triple A chart, making it only the fifth title to debut in the top 15 since the chart expanded to 30 positions in August 2006.
Springsteen is also the only artist to achieve that distinction twice; "Radio Nowhere" debuted in the same position in 2007 and eventually climbed to No. 2. Since the chart launched in 1996, Springsteen has notched five top 10s, including a No. 1 with "The Rising."
Springsteen debuted "Working on a Dream" during a November 2 rally for Barack Obama in Cleveland. Excerpts from the studio version soundtracked a package of NFL highlights that aired November 16 on NBC, while the full track hit digital retailers November 24. In its debut week, the song sold 8,000 copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
A second new track from the album, "My Lucky Day," went live December 1 on Amazon and MySpace. Fresh off winning the top tour honor at the Billboard Touring Awards, Springsteen and the E Street Band will return to live duty February 1 as part of the Super Bowl halftime show in Tampa, Fla.
Reuters/Billboard
The good vibes continue this week for "Working on a Dream," the first single and title track from the Boss' upcoming album, which comes out on January 27 via Columbia. "Dream" debuted at No. 13 on trade publication Radio & Records' Triple A chart, making it only the fifth title to debut in the top 15 since the chart expanded to 30 positions in August 2006.Springsteen is also the only artist to achieve that distinction twice; "Radio Nowhere" debuted in the same position in 2007 and eventually climbed to No. 2. Since the chart launched in 1996, Springsteen has notched five top 10s, including a No. 1 with "The Rising."
Springsteen debuted "Working on a Dream" during a November 2 rally for Barack Obama in Cleveland. Excerpts from the studio version soundtracked a package of NFL highlights that aired November 16 on NBC, while the full track hit digital retailers November 24. In its debut week, the song sold 8,000 copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
A second new track from the album, "My Lucky Day," went live December 1 on Amazon and MySpace. Fresh off winning the top tour honor at the Billboard Touring Awards, Springsteen and the E Street Band will return to live duty February 1 as part of the Super Bowl halftime show in Tampa, Fla.
Reuters/Billboard
Aretha Franklin Among Performers At King Concert
WASHINGTON – A free concert featuring Aretha Franklin will be held at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington to pay tribute to the Reverend Martin Luther King Junior.
The show is being sponsored by the performing arts center and Georgetown University. It will take place on January 19, which is Martin Luther King Day.
Since 2003, the program has featured Kennedy Center honorees and popular entertainers. Franklin was an honoree in 1994.
Tickets will be available at the concert hall on the day of the show.
The event will also include performances by violin duo Nuttin' But Stringz and Georgetown University's Let Freedom Ring Choir.
The show is being sponsored by the performing arts center and Georgetown University. It will take place on January 19, which is Martin Luther King Day.Since 2003, the program has featured Kennedy Center honorees and popular entertainers. Franklin was an honoree in 1994.
Tickets will be available at the concert hall on the day of the show.
The event will also include performances by violin duo Nuttin' But Stringz and Georgetown University's Let Freedom Ring Choir.
Guitarist Sues Over 2008 Coldplay Hit
LOS ANGELES – A noted guitarist has sued members of Coldplay, claiming the band's smash hit "Viva La Vida" copied parts of one of his songs.The copyright infringement lawsuit by Joe Satriani was filed Thursday in federal court in Los Angeles.
The 52-year-old claims Coldplay copied "substantial, original portions" of his 2004 song, "If I Could Fly." The Coldplay hit, which was nominated for a Grammy this week, has topped charts around the world and been used to sell iPods in commercials.
Representatives for the band and their label, Capitol Records, did not return calls seeking comment on Friday.
Satriani wants a federal judge to order an accounting so he can determine how much money he may be owed, or else stop using the song.
Aussie Dollar Plunge Stings Concert Promoters
LONDON (Billboard) – The summer festival season is heating up Down Under, but a dramatic slump in the value of the Australian dollar has promoters sweating over bookings of international talent.
After hitting a 25-year high of 98.49 U.S. cents in mid-July, the Aussie ended the week at about 65 cents.
That's "causing quite a lot of problems for all promoters in Australia," says Vivian Lees, co-promoter of touring festival Big Day Out, which will travel to five Australian cities as well as the Auckland, New Zealand, between January 16 and February 1. "Such a rapid decline has meant everyone has been caught."
Sources say negotiations over Australian tours by Paul McCartney, Neil Diamond, Green Day, Madonna and Metallica have been shelved until the financial situation settles.
Some of those acts were expected to play Sydney's 21,000-capacity Acer Arena. "We've seen a couple of tours blow out," the venue's business development manager Don Elford says. "It probably has a lot to do with the dollar."
Promoters who agreed to pay acts in U.S. dollars during the Aussie currency's ascent have been badly stung. For example, if a promoter had agreed to pay an overseas act $9 million U.S. for an Australian tour, paying half of that upfront and the remaining $4.5 million when the act arrives. The second payment would now cost almost $7 million Australian -- rather than the $4.6 million Australian it would have cost in mid-July. "We're all taking a battering," says Andrew McManus, managing director of Melbourne-based AMP.
The recent currency volatility follows two strong years for the Aussie live scene. Ticket revenue topped $1.2 billion Australian ($775 million U.S. at today's values) in 2007, up 6.1% from 2006, when revenue surged 38.8%, according to trade association Live Performance Australia. Non-classical music, musicals and theater were the top three cash-earners.
McManus wants local promoters to insist all fees are paid in Australian dollars. "That cushions the promoters and the acts share the risks," he says.
But many international touring acts demand payment in U.S. dollars and other promoters -- who wish to remain anonymous -- suggest their peers need to nail down currency conversions at the time of negotiation. Billboard has learned of other promoters aggressively renegotiating reduced appearance fees in exchange for larger shares of merchandising sales.
While the Australian dollar's plunge is on the minds of promoters as they prepare for the summer festival season, some expect to fare just fine.
"We're lucky because we've got the weight of the festival to insulate us from that," Big Day Out co-promoter Lees says. "Only a fraction of our bands are paid in U.S. dollars."
Big Day Out features such acts as Neil Young, Arctic Monkeys and TV on the Radio.
Reuters/Billboard
After hitting a 25-year high of 98.49 U.S. cents in mid-July, the Aussie ended the week at about 65 cents.
That's "causing quite a lot of problems for all promoters in Australia," says Vivian Lees, co-promoter of touring festival Big Day Out, which will travel to five Australian cities as well as the Auckland, New Zealand, between January 16 and February 1. "Such a rapid decline has meant everyone has been caught."
Sources say negotiations over Australian tours by Paul McCartney, Neil Diamond, Green Day, Madonna and Metallica have been shelved until the financial situation settles.
Some of those acts were expected to play Sydney's 21,000-capacity Acer Arena. "We've seen a couple of tours blow out," the venue's business development manager Don Elford says. "It probably has a lot to do with the dollar."
Promoters who agreed to pay acts in U.S. dollars during the Aussie currency's ascent have been badly stung. For example, if a promoter had agreed to pay an overseas act $9 million U.S. for an Australian tour, paying half of that upfront and the remaining $4.5 million when the act arrives. The second payment would now cost almost $7 million Australian -- rather than the $4.6 million Australian it would have cost in mid-July. "We're all taking a battering," says Andrew McManus, managing director of Melbourne-based AMP.
The recent currency volatility follows two strong years for the Aussie live scene. Ticket revenue topped $1.2 billion Australian ($775 million U.S. at today's values) in 2007, up 6.1% from 2006, when revenue surged 38.8%, according to trade association Live Performance Australia. Non-classical music, musicals and theater were the top three cash-earners.
McManus wants local promoters to insist all fees are paid in Australian dollars. "That cushions the promoters and the acts share the risks," he says.
But many international touring acts demand payment in U.S. dollars and other promoters -- who wish to remain anonymous -- suggest their peers need to nail down currency conversions at the time of negotiation. Billboard has learned of other promoters aggressively renegotiating reduced appearance fees in exchange for larger shares of merchandising sales.
While the Australian dollar's plunge is on the minds of promoters as they prepare for the summer festival season, some expect to fare just fine.
"We're lucky because we've got the weight of the festival to insulate us from that," Big Day Out co-promoter Lees says. "Only a fraction of our bands are paid in U.S. dollars."
Big Day Out features such acts as Neil Young, Arctic Monkeys and TV on the Radio.
Reuters/Billboard
R&B star Anthony Hamilton gets to "The Point"
NEW YORK (Billboard) – Anthony Hamilton is best-known for chronicling heartbreak on songs like "Charlene" and "Can't Let Go." But on his first album in three years, the R&B singer says it's time to rejoice.Embodying the message of "The Point of It All," arriving December 16 via Jive Records, is the first single "It's Cool" featuring David Banner, on which Hamilton sings, "You can conquer the world," over a looping, guitar-tinged beat.
"It's a down-South, feel-good track with a little island thing to it," he says. "The lyrics are about day-to-day life, the struggles and trying to make things happen without a lot. But, of course, there's a happy ending."
Hamilton's brand of tell-it-like-it-is R&B and soul found an audience on his 2003 So So Def debut, "Comin' From Where I'm From," which has sold more than 1.3 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The follow-up, 2005's "Ain't Nobody Worryin'," has moved 639,000.
Now, Hamilton is looking at the other side of love on the piano-based, uptempo "Feel Like Falling in Love," which he describes as a combination of an Elvis Presley and James Brown track, and the title cut, a love ballad in contention to be released as a single early next year.
"Be careful when listening to it," Hamilton warns of the latter cut. "If you don't have kids, you might have some after this one."
The 37-year-old singer also addresses the current economic crisis ("Souls on Fire") and the dangers of infidelity ("Please Stay With Me"). "We must not forget things can still go on in the world that affect you and even in your own relationship," he says.
Hamilton is currently on a U.S. club tour , with dates booked through December 14 in Atlanta, and is also scheduled to play this month on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and "Good Morning America." A second leg, in larger venues, is envisaged.
In the meantime, Jive is working to align him with either a high-end liquor company or a female lifestyle brand to help broaden his audience.
"I just want to make sure it's some real smart stuff that I believe in," Hamilton adds. "I'm not trying to put people in the slaughterhouse, but an occasional glass of wine or cognac won't kill you. I want to make sure it's responsible branding."
Hamilton's guest spots on recent albums have also kept him visible while his own album, which was delayed on a couple of occasions, was nearing release. He appears on Young Jeezy's new "The Recession"; two songs on Al Green's "Lay It Down," receiving a Grammy nomination this week for one of them; the "Soul Men" soundtrack; and, oddly enough, on songs with country artists Josh Turner and Big & Rich's John Rich.
"I love country," Hamilton says of the collaborations. "I wrote the song for Josh Turner -- he's a good friend of mine -- and he said he'd be honored if I duetted with him."
It all ties in with an old-school approach to music, one that seems unconcerned with deadlines or deals for the sake of making deals. "Sometimes deadlines get in the way of some really good things," Hamilton says. "That's why I didn't want to rush it. Now, it feels complete."
Reuters/Billboard
New classical music prize established in Sweden
STOCKHOLM, Sweden – The late Swedish soprano Birgit Nilsson will be commemorated through the establishment of a $1 million classical music prize.The Birgit Nilsson Foundation said Friday the prize is being created according to the singer's wishes and is the largest in classical musical history.
The first Birgit Nilsson prize winner will be announced in 2009.
Nilsson picked the first winner herself; the name is being kept in a sealed envelope.
Singers and directors in opera and concert, along with specific productions by an opera company, are eligible for the award, which will be handed out every two or three years.
Nilsson died three years ago after having spent almost 40 years on the world's opera stages from New York's Metropolitan Opera to La Scala in Milan.
- Fidelio Opera Op. 72- Abscheulicher Wo Eilst Du Hin (Nilsson Birgit, Masters of the Voice Soprano - 2:01)
- Fidelio Opera Op. 72- Komm Hoffnung? Meister Rocco (Nilsson Birgit, Masters of the Voice Soprano - 5:07)
- Die Walkuere (the Valkyrie) Opera Wwv 86b- Nun Zaeume Dein Ross Reisige Maid (Nilsson Birgit, Masters of the Voice Soprano - 1:10)
- Die Walkuere (the Valkyrie) Opera Wwv 86b- Dir Ratich Vater Rueste Dich Selbst (Nilsson Birgit, Masters of the Voice Soprano - 1:44)
105-year-old singer says Hitler was a `good guy'
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands – A 105-year-old singer whose past as a singer in Nazi Germany has dogged his reputation for decades is back in the spotlight after telling a Dutch television show Adolf Hitler was a "good guy."
The Dutch-born Johan Heesters, who now has Austrian citizenship and is still popular and performing in Germany, was asked by a Dutch journalist what he thought of Hitler.
"A good guy, that's what he was," he said on the clip shown Thursday on the current affairs show "De Wereld Draait Door" ("The World Keeps Turning").
His wife, Simone Rethel, immediately corrected him, saying that Hitler was the worst criminal in the world.
"I know, doll," Heesters responded. "But he was nice to me."
Rethel protested after the clip was aired, telling Dutch papers that he had been tricked into making the remarks, and that the program had cut out other parts of the interview where Heesters condemned the Nazi regime.
Heesters has made headlines twice in the past year for attempts to repair his reputation internationally, though he has remained popular in Germany throughout the war and after.
In February, he braved protests to perform in his native Netherlands for the first time in more than 40 years. In his previous attempt, in 1964, he was booed off the stage in Amsterdam when he tried to appear as Nazi-hating Captain Von Trapp in "The Sound of Music."
Last month, he filed a lawsuit to clear himself of allegations he sang for SS guards at the Dachau concentration camp. Heesters acknowledges he visited the camp outside Munich in 1941, but the suit will try to force a German author to retract statements that the singer entertained SS troops while there.
"It never happened," Heesters said in a lengthy statement explaining his connections to Nazi-era Germany on his Web site.
The author, Volker Kuehn, maintained Heesters performed for the troops, basing the assertion on a 1990 interview he did with former Dachau inmate Viktor Matejka. Matejka died in 1993.
Heesters was never accused of being a propagandist or anything other than an artist willing to perform for the Nazis, and the Allies allowed him to continue his career after the war.
But in his native country — which was occupied by Germany for most of the conflict — some view him as irredeemable.
Heesters said it gave him a "heavy heart" to know he was "not wanted in my homeland."
"Sure, I wanted to build my career. But...through no fault of my own, Adolf Hitler was one of the fans of my art. What have I done?"
(This version CORRECTS Corrects spelling of Hitler's first name to Adolf sted Adolph in lede, last graf.)
The Dutch-born Johan Heesters, who now has Austrian citizenship and is still popular and performing in Germany, was asked by a Dutch journalist what he thought of Hitler."A good guy, that's what he was," he said on the clip shown Thursday on the current affairs show "De Wereld Draait Door" ("The World Keeps Turning").
His wife, Simone Rethel, immediately corrected him, saying that Hitler was the worst criminal in the world.
"I know, doll," Heesters responded. "But he was nice to me."
Rethel protested after the clip was aired, telling Dutch papers that he had been tricked into making the remarks, and that the program had cut out other parts of the interview where Heesters condemned the Nazi regime.
Heesters has made headlines twice in the past year for attempts to repair his reputation internationally, though he has remained popular in Germany throughout the war and after.
In February, he braved protests to perform in his native Netherlands for the first time in more than 40 years. In his previous attempt, in 1964, he was booed off the stage in Amsterdam when he tried to appear as Nazi-hating Captain Von Trapp in "The Sound of Music."
Last month, he filed a lawsuit to clear himself of allegations he sang for SS guards at the Dachau concentration camp. Heesters acknowledges he visited the camp outside Munich in 1941, but the suit will try to force a German author to retract statements that the singer entertained SS troops while there.
"It never happened," Heesters said in a lengthy statement explaining his connections to Nazi-era Germany on his Web site.
The author, Volker Kuehn, maintained Heesters performed for the troops, basing the assertion on a 1990 interview he did with former Dachau inmate Viktor Matejka. Matejka died in 1993.
Heesters was never accused of being a propagandist or anything other than an artist willing to perform for the Nazis, and the Allies allowed him to continue his career after the war.
But in his native country — which was occupied by Germany for most of the conflict — some view him as irredeemable.
Heesters said it gave him a "heavy heart" to know he was "not wanted in my homeland."
"Sure, I wanted to build my career. But...through no fault of my own, Adolf Hitler was one of the fans of my art. What have I done?"
(This version CORRECTS Corrects spelling of Hitler's first name to Adolf sted Adolph in lede, last graf.)
Bye George! Crooner Guilty of False Imprisonment
In the eyes of a British jury, Boy George really did want to hurt him.
A London court found the former Culture Club crooner guilty on Friday of falsely imprisoning a male escort whom he hired for an erotic porn shoot.
The 47-year-old George, who's full name is George O'Dowd, was accused of handcuffing 28-year-old Audun Carlsen to a wall in his apartment last April and then roughing him up before the model managed to wriggle free of the restraints, flee the flat and seek help.
During the two-week trial, jurors heard testimony from Carlsen how the "Karma Chameleon" purveyor invited him over to his home to take nude photos, then locked him up and accused the escort of swiping pictures off his computer.
According to Carlsen, the accusations were merely an excuse for George and another man to get nasty. He claimed the two then held him down and punched and beat him repeatedly with a metal chain because he refused to have sex with the singer.
While the Norwegian native did admit to having a previous sexual liason with George that involved some bondage, he rejected suggestions made by the '80s popster's attorney that he had acquiesced to another such tryst.
The jury agreed and around noon GMT time Thursday began deliberating George' fate before settling on today's guilty verdict.
The entertainer, who declined to take the stand in his own defense but had previously admitted to police that he handcuffed him while he went to check his computer, will now almost certainly tumble to the slammer.
Per CNN, Judge David Radford allowed George to remain free on bail while he awaits his punishment, but he also cautioned him that he would likely face prison time.
"The fact that your bail is being continued does not imply that this will be dealt with by a non-custodial sentence," he said. "I don't want any false expectations created."
A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 16.
Source: eonline.com
A London court found the former Culture Club crooner guilty on Friday of falsely imprisoning a male escort whom he hired for an erotic porn shoot.
The 47-year-old George, who's full name is George O'Dowd, was accused of handcuffing 28-year-old Audun Carlsen to a wall in his apartment last April and then roughing him up before the model managed to wriggle free of the restraints, flee the flat and seek help.During the two-week trial, jurors heard testimony from Carlsen how the "Karma Chameleon" purveyor invited him over to his home to take nude photos, then locked him up and accused the escort of swiping pictures off his computer.
According to Carlsen, the accusations were merely an excuse for George and another man to get nasty. He claimed the two then held him down and punched and beat him repeatedly with a metal chain because he refused to have sex with the singer.
While the Norwegian native did admit to having a previous sexual liason with George that involved some bondage, he rejected suggestions made by the '80s popster's attorney that he had acquiesced to another such tryst.
The jury agreed and around noon GMT time Thursday began deliberating George' fate before settling on today's guilty verdict.
The entertainer, who declined to take the stand in his own defense but had previously admitted to police that he handcuffed him while he went to check his computer, will now almost certainly tumble to the slammer.
Per CNN, Judge David Radford allowed George to remain free on bail while he awaits his punishment, but he also cautioned him that he would likely face prison time.
"The fact that your bail is being continued does not imply that this will be dealt with by a non-custodial sentence," he said. "I don't want any false expectations created."
A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 16.
Source: eonline.com
Coldplay Sued By Joe Satriani For Allegedly Plagiarizing 'Viva La Vida' Melody
By Gil Kaufman
Guitarist claims the Grammy-nominated song is a rip-off of his track 'If I Could Fly.'
Not long after Coldplay's Viva la Vida album hit shelves this summer, the blogosphere exploded with suggestions that the title track bore a striking resemblance to a 2004 instrumental track by rock guitarist Joe Satriani titled "If I Could Fly."
Now, Satriani has accused the band of copyright infringement in a lawsuit filed on Thursday in Los Angeles federal court, according to a Reuters report.
A day after the Coldplay album was nominated for seven Grammys, including Record and Song of the Year for "Viva la Vida," Satriani's suit claims that "Viva" incorporates "substantial original portions" of his track "If I Could Fly," from the Is There Love in Space? album.
Satriani, 52, is seeking a jury trial in the dispute, as well as damages and "any and all profits" attributable to the alleged copyright infringement. The songwriting credit on the Coldplay song is attributed to the band's four members: singer Chris Martin, bass player Guy Berryman, guitarist Jonny Buckland and drummer Will Champion. A spokesperson for Coldplay could not be reached for comment at press time.
Satriani isn't the only artist who has claimed the Coldplay song was eerily familiar. Around the time of the album's release, a lesser-known New York band named Creaky Boards claimed that Martin had attended one of their gigs and would have heard the tune "The Songs I Didn't Write," which also bears a similar melody. At the time, Coldplay's spokespeople denied that Martin was at the gig and said the band had written "Viva" several months before that show.
Source: mtv.com
Guitarist claims the Grammy-nominated song is a rip-off of his track 'If I Could Fly.'
Not long after Coldplay's Viva la Vida album hit shelves this summer, the blogosphere exploded with suggestions that the title track bore a striking resemblance to a 2004 instrumental track by rock guitarist Joe Satriani titled "If I Could Fly."Now, Satriani has accused the band of copyright infringement in a lawsuit filed on Thursday in Los Angeles federal court, according to a Reuters report.
A day after the Coldplay album was nominated for seven Grammys, including Record and Song of the Year for "Viva la Vida," Satriani's suit claims that "Viva" incorporates "substantial original portions" of his track "If I Could Fly," from the Is There Love in Space? album.
Satriani, 52, is seeking a jury trial in the dispute, as well as damages and "any and all profits" attributable to the alleged copyright infringement. The songwriting credit on the Coldplay song is attributed to the band's four members: singer Chris Martin, bass player Guy Berryman, guitarist Jonny Buckland and drummer Will Champion. A spokesperson for Coldplay could not be reached for comment at press time.
Satriani isn't the only artist who has claimed the Coldplay song was eerily familiar. Around the time of the album's release, a lesser-known New York band named Creaky Boards claimed that Martin had attended one of their gigs and would have heard the tune "The Songs I Didn't Write," which also bears a similar melody. At the time, Coldplay's spokespeople denied that Martin was at the gig and said the band had written "Viva" several months before that show.
Source: mtv.com
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Rolling Stones insider pins Altamont fracas on cops
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – December 6 is a day that will live in infamy in the annals of rock 'n' roll.On that day in 1969, the Rolling Stones gave a free concert at the Altamont Speedway, east of San Francisco, and watched helplessly as their gesture of goodwill spurred random beatings and the fatal stabbing of a fan by a Hells Angels member.
The events are captured in the Maysles brothers' 1970 documentary "Gimme Shelter," the world's first rock 'n' roll snuff film. And "Altamont" has become a byword for chaos, the gold standard for how not to organize a concert.
Many commentators have dissected Altamont, generally blaming either the Stones, because they should have handled things better; or the Angels, because clubbing fans with pool cues is never a good idea.
The Stones themselves have generally shied away from the issue. But a new memoir by their former tour manager, Sam Cutler, is the closest thing to an insider's view.
Cutler appears in "Gimme Shelter" as the mustachioed roadie who coolly pleads with fans to climb off the scaffolding or get off the absurdly tiny stage. His bold forecast to the 300,000-strong crowd that "this could be the greatest party of 1969" turns out to be a little off the mark.
In "You Can't Always Get What You Want" (Random House Australia), Cutler blames the disaster on "criminal cowardice" by the authorities. Law enforcement departments wanted the event to be a disaster to create a backlash against politically radical elements in the rock 'n' roll world, the British native said in a recent interview from his new home in Australia.
"The feds were there, there was all kind of people, all kinds of heavy law enforcement people and they chose absolutely not to do anything during the event," Cutler said.
Maybe a half-dozen uniformed policemen were on duty at the speedway, Cutler said, and they were more interested in towing away cars. And thus it fell upon the Hells Angels to provide a semblance of order at the hastily organized event. As legend has it, they were paid $500 worth of beer for their services.
'STONES CAME TO PLAY'
The Rolling Stones' set, along with those of opening acts such as Jefferson Airplane, was interrupted from the start by brawls. The Hells Angels did not exactly feel kinship with the flower-power crowd, and they were also anxious about their beloved Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the crush of humanity.
As the Stones performed "Under My Thumb," 18-year-old Meredith Hunter appeared to pull out a gun, perhaps for self-defense. Hells Angels member Alan Passaro pounced on Hunter with impressive athleticism, stabbing him multiple times as the Maysles' cameras rolled. Hunter was whisked away, and soon pronounced dead. The Stones, unaware of the gravity of the situation, kept playing.
The band and their entourage were lucky to escape with their own lives after the show was over. They piled on top of each other in a small helicopter.
Almost immediately, Altamont triggered recriminations. Hell's Angels leader Sonny Barger said Stones frontman Mick Jagger "used us for dupes." The band was also pilloried by the media, even though the Stones had little to do with the show's organization. Since they were on tour, the management of local rockers the Grateful Dead handled such issues as the hiring of the Hells Angels.
"The Rolling Stones came to play music for people, to bring people a good time, and it all went pear-shaped," Cutler said. "I don't think it was the fault of the Rolling Stones."
No official enquiry was launched into Altamont, which Cutler considers shocking.
Nonetheless the band hurriedly left the country, fearful of legal action. A penniless Cutler stayed behind to clean up the mess, and never saw Jagger again. In his book, he details how he risked his life to attend a basement summit with a dozen angry Hells Angels members. After everything was settled, Cutler went on to work for the Dead, and he devotes the second half of his book to his exploits with them.
Passaro went on trial, and was acquitted after claiming self-defense. He was later found drowned under suspicious circumstances with a large amount of cash in his pockets, according to Cutler.
The movie, at least, was a hit. Co-director Albert Maysles often tells the story of a group of Hells Angels members who attended a theatrical screening and laughed hysterically during the death scene.
"It's not one of my favorite movies of all time," said Cutler.
(Editing by Mary Milliken)
Jennifer Hudson says she's honored by Grammy nods
NEW YORK – Jennifer Hudson says she's honored to be a Grammy nominee. The Oscar-winning actress and singer, who has been in seclusion since the killings of her mother, brother and nephew, was nominated Wednesday for four Grammy awards for her self-titled debut album.
Says Hudson: "It's been a childhood dream of mine to release an album, so to receive four Grammy nominations is truly a blessing. I am extremely honored and humbled by the nominations."
The nominations came a day after her estranged brother-in-law, William Balfour, was formally charged with murder in the killings of Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson; her brother, Jason Hudson; and her 7-year-old nephew, Julian King.
Hudson has declined through a spokeswoman to speak about the arrest.
___
On the Net:
http://www.jenniferhudsononline.com
Says Hudson: "It's been a childhood dream of mine to release an album, so to receive four Grammy nominations is truly a blessing. I am extremely honored and humbled by the nominations."The nominations came a day after her estranged brother-in-law, William Balfour, was formally charged with murder in the killings of Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson; her brother, Jason Hudson; and her 7-year-old nephew, Julian King.
Hudson has declined through a spokeswoman to speak about the arrest.
___
On the Net:
http://www.jenniferhudsononline.com
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Acoustic Guitar is the magazine for all acoustic guitar players, from beginners to performing professionals. Through interviews, reviews, workshops, sheet music, and song transcriptions, the monthly's readers learn music from around the globe and get to know the artists who create it. With product reviews and expert advice, Acoustic Guitar also helps its readers become smarter buyers and owners of acoustic guitars and guitar gear.Acoustic Guitar Subscription
2. Alternative Press Magazine
Alternative Press Magazine is the ultimate authority on new music and style. Each issue is jam packed with celebrity and anti-celebrity interviews, exclusive photos, in-depth and (often brutally) honest reviews and so much more that only Alternative Press Magazine can give you. Alternative Press Magazine helps you get in tune with new music, new films, new styles and new trends. If you're a hip young adult Alternative Press Magazine is published just for you.Alternative Press Magazine Subscription
3. Bbc Music
BBC Music Magazine is the world's best-selling classical music magazine. BBC Music Magazine is for the serious and not so serious collector of classical music. Each issue features numerous photographs of musicians and reviews of current classical and semipopular CD's.Bbc Music Subscription
4. Blender Music Magazine
Blender is a new music magazine put out by the publishers of Maxim. Blender is a publication that salutes the unique brilliance of rock & roll in all its forms - new metal to hip hop, rock to R&B - and they do it all with an energy and panache that other corporate music magazines lack.Blender Music Magazine Subscription
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6. Down Beat
There are many roads to jazz, as any collection of fans will demonstrate. But for many of those fans, whose age today can fall anywhere between 10 and 80, that road has been paved with issues of Down Beat magazine.Over the decades it has instructed, recommended, criticized, praised, condemned, advocated and, in the aggregate, honored the most dynamic American music of the twentieth century. Millions have been led to records and artists on the strength of a Down Beat review, news tip, or profile. It has shaped young tastes in need of guidance and challenged older ones in need of a wake-up call. In the 1930s, before any important book on jazz had yet been written, Down Beat collected the first important body of pre-1935 jazz history. It became a monthly, then semi-monthly, a diary of the swing era as it happened, then tracked the progression of bop, pop, rock, freedom, fusion, and nineties neoclassicism, all from the perspective of the musician. Hard to believe it began by selling insurance.
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8. Guitar World (non-disc Version)
Guitar World is the #1 guitar magazine in the world designed for all guitar players - professionals, amateurs, hobbyists and fans of the guitar world. Each issue covers music ranging from rock and heavy metal to blues and jazz. You'll find in-depth interviews, song transcriptions, private guitar lessons, product reviews, record reviews, columns written for the guitar player and much more. If you love the guitar, you'll love Guitar World. Please note: Does not include CD. Guitar World (non-disc Version) Subscription
9. Hit Parader
When you crave the latest in hard rock news Hit Parader is there! Each issue features all the latest news in the hard rock world, exclusive interviews with metal's biggest stars and the most exciting photos on earth. You'll also find incredible on-the-spot reports, exciting behind-the-scenes talks, music premieres, chat, concerts and Hit Parader's unmatched saavy for digging up the dirt on the inner-workings of the heavy metal scene. Hit Parader is better than a front row seat at the hottest show in town. Hit Parader Subscription
10. Hm Heavy Metal
HM: The Hard Music Magazine is an American bimonthly publication focusing on both Christianity and hard rock. Articles include news, reviews and interviews with Christian artists. The recurring "So and So Sez" interviews focus on artists who often are not Christians and play in secular bands, in order to discuss their music, upcoming tours, albums, and to determine their views on Jesus Christ and other spiritual matters.Hm Heavy Metal Subscription
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JazzTimes is a music magazine that covers jazz. It was founded by Ira Sabin in 1970, as a newsletter publication called Radio Free Jazz. In 1980 its name was changed to JazzTimes. Today the magazine is widely regarded as a leading jazz publication.Jazz Times Subscription
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Remix is the magazine for the underground music artist and enthusiast. Covering everything from hip-hop, house, trance, techno, experimental, electronica, drum-bass to down tempo, each issue of Remix includes all the latest informative tips and tricks to help readers understand the latest technologies whether it's mixing techniques, sampling tips, sequencing strategies, or making vinyl records. In addition, Remix gives you the 411 on all the latest gear including synths, samplers, turntables, CD players, mixers, software, effects processors and more. Remix keeps producers and lovers of underground music up-to-date and inspired.Remix Subscription
13. Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone is the granddaddy of rock and roll magazines. It serves up the latest news in popular culture, music, celebrities, and politics. Each jam-packed issue includes music, film, and book reviews. With an unabashed eye, the magazine's writers go backstage and report on what's hot and up-and-coming in the music industry. With its musical savvy and humorous tone, Rolling Stone will amuse and edify you.Rolling Stone Subscription
14. Spin Magazine
Spin is a contemporary rock and roll magazine that focuses on the progressive new music scene and young adult culture involved with alternative music. Spin gives you the edge on music and youth culture. Each issue includes reviews, essays, profiles and interviews on a range of music from rock to jazz. Spin is a great choice for music lovers! Spin Magazine Subscription
15. Stereophile
Stereophile is a high-end audio magazine devoted to testing high-performance audio components and how they sound in the listener's home. Each issue also features articles on audio and recorded music, interviews with audio engineers and musicians, news on the developments in sound reproduction, and scholarly and entertaining record reviews. Stereophile Subscription
16. Strings
Strings is written by and for players and teachers of bowed stringed instruments. Each issue features lively interviews with such luminaries as Itzhak Perlman, Edgar Meyer, and Yo-Yo Ma. Plus, it's filled with music to play, from long-forgotten pieces to new works. Strings Subscription
17. Teen Strings
Teen Strings is the only magazine published for the next generation of violin, viola, cello, bass and fiddle players. Teen Strings is designed for beginning and developing string players ages 11-18. Each issue is a useful tool for both students and string teachers and includes articles on young players and school string programs. You'll also find practical advice on technique, performance and instrument care written specifically for this unique audience.Teen Strings Subscription
18. Word Up
Word Up focuses on rap music and performers.Word Up Subscription
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Hip-hop star Common in a party mood on "Control"
NEW YORK (Billboard) – Veteran rapper Common, long known for his pensive lyrics, is trying out a new style on the upcoming "Universal Mind Control."
Due December 9 from Geffen after numerous delays (which Common blames on his burgeoning acting career), the album forgoes Common's usual stable of producers -- among them No ID and Kanye West. Instead, the Neptunes' Pharrell Williams and OutKast producer Mr. DJ are behind the boards for Common's most pop-driven work to date.
First single "Universal Mind Control (UMC)," featuring Williams, plucks its rhythm from Afrika Bambaataa's "Planet Rock" as Common rhymes about "booties dropping ... styling and being fly."
"I wanted to do what I felt was missing from my catalog -- songs that could be played at parties internationally," Common says. "I just came off tour with N*E*R*D, and crowds really felt 'Universal Mind Control (UMC).'"
Common is revered in hip-hop circles and beyond for his creative storytelling. His witty 1994 single "I Used to Love H.E.R.," chronicling the changes that hip-hop has endured as a genre, is hailed as a classic and emulated by many new artists. But he has never been shy about taking chances with his sound.
His fifth album, 2002's "Electric Circus," drew its beats from new wave and Count Basie-style jazz, but it sold just 65,000 copies in its first week of U.S. release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The artist spent the next two albums --2005's "Be" and 2007's "Finding Forever" -- returning to his roots, and fans responded big-time: The two albums combined have sold 1.5 million copies.
"When you come up with a new sound, it takes time for people to take a liking to it," Common says. "The music is the future of progressive hip-hop. It's colorful and a little electronic."
With Williams and Mr. DJ as the sole producers, the album showcases the catchiness of the Neptunes and the alternative quality of OutKast. "Everywhere" features a guitar line reminiscent of Pat Benatar's "Love Is a Battlefield," while "Gladiator" finds Common fiercely rhyming over a '20s-style horn wail, driving drums and thick bass. "Punch Drunk Love," possibly the second single, features a catchy chorus from West, who is otherwise absent.
"Kanye was focusing on his Glow in the Dark show, so he wasn't able to make it to the studio to weigh in," Common says.
Beyond his music, the rapper continues to be busy with film work. He has acted alongside Jeremy Piven in "Smokin' Aces," Denzel Washington in "American Gangster" and Angelina Jolie in "Wanted," and will play the character Barnes in the 2009 action film "Terminator Salvation."
Having achieved Hollywood success, Common knows he can take artistic chances with his music in a way few other rappers can. "A brother isn't just relying on hip-hop to pay my bills anymore," he says.
Reuters/Billboard
Due December 9 from Geffen after numerous delays (which Common blames on his burgeoning acting career), the album forgoes Common's usual stable of producers -- among them No ID and Kanye West. Instead, the Neptunes' Pharrell Williams and OutKast producer Mr. DJ are behind the boards for Common's most pop-driven work to date.First single "Universal Mind Control (UMC)," featuring Williams, plucks its rhythm from Afrika Bambaataa's "Planet Rock" as Common rhymes about "booties dropping ... styling and being fly."
"I wanted to do what I felt was missing from my catalog -- songs that could be played at parties internationally," Common says. "I just came off tour with N*E*R*D, and crowds really felt 'Universal Mind Control (UMC).'"
Common is revered in hip-hop circles and beyond for his creative storytelling. His witty 1994 single "I Used to Love H.E.R.," chronicling the changes that hip-hop has endured as a genre, is hailed as a classic and emulated by many new artists. But he has never been shy about taking chances with his sound.
His fifth album, 2002's "Electric Circus," drew its beats from new wave and Count Basie-style jazz, but it sold just 65,000 copies in its first week of U.S. release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The artist spent the next two albums --2005's "Be" and 2007's "Finding Forever" -- returning to his roots, and fans responded big-time: The two albums combined have sold 1.5 million copies.
"When you come up with a new sound, it takes time for people to take a liking to it," Common says. "The music is the future of progressive hip-hop. It's colorful and a little electronic."
With Williams and Mr. DJ as the sole producers, the album showcases the catchiness of the Neptunes and the alternative quality of OutKast. "Everywhere" features a guitar line reminiscent of Pat Benatar's "Love Is a Battlefield," while "Gladiator" finds Common fiercely rhyming over a '20s-style horn wail, driving drums and thick bass. "Punch Drunk Love," possibly the second single, features a catchy chorus from West, who is otherwise absent.
"Kanye was focusing on his Glow in the Dark show, so he wasn't able to make it to the studio to weigh in," Common says.
Beyond his music, the rapper continues to be busy with film work. He has acted alongside Jeremy Piven in "Smokin' Aces," Denzel Washington in "American Gangster" and Angelina Jolie in "Wanted," and will play the character Barnes in the 2009 action film "Terminator Salvation."
Having achieved Hollywood success, Common knows he can take artistic chances with his music in a way few other rappers can. "A brother isn't just relying on hip-hop to pay my bills anymore," he says.
Reuters/Billboard
Prosecutor: Jealousy behind Hudson family killings
CHICAGO – The brother-in-law of Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson killed three of her relatives — with a gun stolen from one of the victims — because he was angry his estranged wife, the star's sister, was dating another man, prosecutors alleged Wednesday.William Balfour appeared in court for the first time in connection with the deaths and was denied bond. His attorney said authorities have no forensic evidence linking Balfour to the killings, but prosecutors said witness statements and the suspect's own lies and threats helped lead them to him.
Balfour was charged with murder Tuesday after being held for weeks on a parole violation. The slightly built man, wearing a yellow jump suit, stood quietly Wednesday as prosecutor LuAnn Snow described how he allegedly killed his 7-year-old stepson, Julian King, Hudson's mother, Darnell Hudson Donerson, and Hudson's brother, Jason Hudson.
Snow said Balfour had been at the Hudsons' South Side home early Oct. 24 and confronted his estranged wife, Julia Hudson, about a birthday present he believed she had received from a boyfriend.
Balfour, Snow said, also had shown up to Julia Hudson's workplace earlier in the month to confront her about dating another man.
"He told her at the time that her family would suffer if she saw other men," Snow said after Wednesday's hearing.
Balfour threatened Julia Hudson again that morning at the home, Snow said, adding that Hudson did not take the threat seriously because he "had not followed through on any of those threats" before.
The two left the home together that morning, with Hudson driving away as she saw Balfour walking toward his own car, according to documents prosecutors filed with the court.
But Balfour's car broke down and two acquaintances gave him a ride to a gas station — during which time Balfour told them he had a handgun, but had left it in his car, Snow alleged.
In fact, the prosecutor said, the gun belonged to Jason Hudson and Balfour allegedly stole it during the summer. "Several people observed defendant with the gun in the late summer of 2008," Snow said.
Balfour was taken back to his disabled car after the trip to the gas station, "although he was offered a ride to other locations," Snow told the court.
In the stark language of a legal document she was reading from, Snow described what allegedly happened next:
"Defendant then entered the home at 7019 S. Yale at gunpoint," she read. "He shot Darnell Donerson several times while she was in the living room area. He then went into Jason Hudson's bedroom and shot him two times in the head."
Jason Hudson, she said, was still in bed when he was shot.
Balfour allegedly then took 7-year-old Julian and put him in Jason Hudson's white SUV. "Defendant shot Julian King in the head while the 7-year-old was laying behind the front seat of the Suburban," Snow read. His body was found three days later in the SUV.
Balfour's attorney, Joshua Kutnick, criticized the first-degree murder and home invasion charges against his client, saying no fingerprint, blood or other forensic evidence links the 27-year-old to the slayings.
"There is no direct evidence of Mr. Balfour committing these crimes," he said, adding that a girlfriend who claims Balfour confessed to her and asked her to provide him with an alibi is "highly suspect."
Snow said there is evidence linking Balfour to the crimes, including gunshot residue on the steering wheel of the car that had broken down.
Further, she said, Balfour has made statements to authorities that detectives have disproved. For example, while Balfour claimed he used a transit card to ride a train from the Hudson residence to his home, "The card was last used two days before the murders," Snow said.
Balfour also does not appear on surveillance video of the train station he said he rode to, Snow said.
Cell phone records and gas station surveillance video show Balfour was in the immediate vicinity of the Hudsons' home until shortly after 9 a.m., according to the court documents. Snow said Balfour claimed he was at his West Side home at 10 a.m. the morning of the killings but cell phone records show he did not return there until just before 1 p.m.
Kutnick argued that none of that means his client killed anyone. He told the judge Balfour has not confessed and no one has come forward saying they saw him commit the crimes.
As for the gunshot residue, Kutnick said after Wednesday's hearing that Balfour's car had been left unattended the day of the killings and it wasn't known if anyone else had used it. He also said witnesses linking Balfour to Jason Hudson's stolen gun are unreliable.
Balfour previously went to prison for seven years for attempted murder and vehicular hijacking. His next court date in the murder case is set for Dec. 30.
Jennifer Hudson was a finalist in the 2004 season of "American Idol" and won an Oscar in 2007 for best supporting actress in "Dreamgirls." She has mostly stayed out of the spotlight and close to her family since the killings.
Her publicist said Wednesday that the actress would not offer any comment.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Kylie wows fans at first Beijing concert
By Ben Blanchard
BEIJING (Reuters) – Kylie Minogue, who went from soap actress to become one of the world's most famous female recording artists, wowed fans on Monday at her first performance in Chinese capital Beijing with an electric show.
A beaming Minogue, who recently overcame breast cancer, belted out a series of her biggest hits, including "Can't get you out of my head," "Better the devil you know" and "I should be so lucky."
"It's my first time ever here in Beijing and you've made me feel so welcome," she told the crowd of some 6,000 who had gathered to see her at the Beijing Workers' Gymnasium.
"I'm very happy today," Minogue said in broken Chinese, to roars of approval from the crowd. "Well, it's true!"
Her Beijing date was part of the KylieX2008 tour, a $16 million production that has already been to more than 21 countries, and included a Shanghai date last weekend.
Nicknamed by local media the "pea princess" in reference to her diminutive size, "Kaili Minuo" as she is known in Chinese barely rested during the two-hour show, dressed to the nines in a dazzling and constantly changing Jean Paul Gaultier wardrobe.
While not as well known in China as Madonna or Celine Dion, Minogue packed in the crowds with the most expensive ticket going for 2,580 yuan ($376.5), well out of the price range of the average Chinese.
"I asked some of my colleagues and they all said they didn't know much about Kylie because not many people know her, but most of them know Madonna," said Chinese fan Hao Chenguang.
The Australian became a household name in Britain in the 1980s after starring as Charlene in the TV soap "Neighbours."
She turned to music after leaving the popular show, releasing her first single "Locomotion" in 1987 and has continued to enjoy huge chart success with songs such as "Love at first sight" and "Spinning around."
In 2005 she was diagnosed with breast cancer but returned to performing after recovering from surgery and chemotherapy.
Visits by Western singers and bands to China are still fairly rare, though increasing, with the likes of the Rolling Stones and the late James Brown performing in the world's most populous country in recent years.
Their shows don't always go off smoothly.
Earlier this year, Icelandic singer Bjork shouted "Tibet! Tibet!" at a Shanghai concert after performing her song "Declare Independence," angering the government and local fans alike.
Artists are forbidden to perform content that would harm "national unity" or "stir up resentment" and promoters are asked to submit set-lists and lyric sheets for approval.
Performers deemed to have hurt national sentiments are put in the freezer indefinitely, or until seen to have made due penance.
Last year, a Beijing concert for U.S. rock act Sonic Youth was nearly scuppered at the last minute after local authorities were tipped off that it had played at "free Tibet" concerts.
But Minogue avoided any hint of politics with her bouncy pop.
"Oh Beijing, you're so wow!" she told the appreciative audience.
($1=6.853 Yuan)
(Additional reporting by Hanna Rantala, editing by Paul Casciato)
BEIJING (Reuters) – Kylie Minogue, who went from soap actress to become one of the world's most famous female recording artists, wowed fans on Monday at her first performance in Chinese capital Beijing with an electric show.
A beaming Minogue, who recently overcame breast cancer, belted out a series of her biggest hits, including "Can't get you out of my head," "Better the devil you know" and "I should be so lucky.""It's my first time ever here in Beijing and you've made me feel so welcome," she told the crowd of some 6,000 who had gathered to see her at the Beijing Workers' Gymnasium.
"I'm very happy today," Minogue said in broken Chinese, to roars of approval from the crowd. "Well, it's true!"
Her Beijing date was part of the KylieX2008 tour, a $16 million production that has already been to more than 21 countries, and included a Shanghai date last weekend.
Nicknamed by local media the "pea princess" in reference to her diminutive size, "Kaili Minuo" as she is known in Chinese barely rested during the two-hour show, dressed to the nines in a dazzling and constantly changing Jean Paul Gaultier wardrobe.
While not as well known in China as Madonna or Celine Dion, Minogue packed in the crowds with the most expensive ticket going for 2,580 yuan ($376.5), well out of the price range of the average Chinese.
"I asked some of my colleagues and they all said they didn't know much about Kylie because not many people know her, but most of them know Madonna," said Chinese fan Hao Chenguang.
The Australian became a household name in Britain in the 1980s after starring as Charlene in the TV soap "Neighbours."
She turned to music after leaving the popular show, releasing her first single "Locomotion" in 1987 and has continued to enjoy huge chart success with songs such as "Love at first sight" and "Spinning around."
In 2005 she was diagnosed with breast cancer but returned to performing after recovering from surgery and chemotherapy.
Visits by Western singers and bands to China are still fairly rare, though increasing, with the likes of the Rolling Stones and the late James Brown performing in the world's most populous country in recent years.
Their shows don't always go off smoothly.
Earlier this year, Icelandic singer Bjork shouted "Tibet! Tibet!" at a Shanghai concert after performing her song "Declare Independence," angering the government and local fans alike.
Artists are forbidden to perform content that would harm "national unity" or "stir up resentment" and promoters are asked to submit set-lists and lyric sheets for approval.
Performers deemed to have hurt national sentiments are put in the freezer indefinitely, or until seen to have made due penance.
Last year, a Beijing concert for U.S. rock act Sonic Youth was nearly scuppered at the last minute after local authorities were tipped off that it had played at "free Tibet" concerts.
But Minogue avoided any hint of politics with her bouncy pop.
"Oh Beijing, you're so wow!" she told the appreciative audience.
($1=6.853 Yuan)
(Additional reporting by Hanna Rantala, editing by Paul Casciato)
Second Spears comeback almost as good as the first
Britney Spears, "Circus" (Jive)
It's time for another Britney Spears comeback: Call this one the remix version.
It was only last year that our damaged diva attempted to put the focus back on her once spectacular music career with "Blackout." A tight collection of sexy club-oriented grooves, "Blackout" was a delight, and had so much hit-worthy material even Janet Jackson could have been resurrected with it.
But "Blackout" never had a chance at success because its star wasn't as well put together as the album. (It's hard to generate hits when your personal life is in turmoil.)
Now Spears — while still very different from her previous superstar incarnation, circa 1998-2003 — seems on the road to recovery, thanks to court-appointed guidance from her dad and other positive developments. She seems ready for a rebirth, so it's fitting that "Circus" — her sixth studio album — makes its debut as she celebrates her 27th birthday.
And like any good circus, Britney's version will leave you thoroughly entertained. Though "Blackout" was a gem, it seemed like the album was mainly due to the creative and technological wizardry of its producers, with minimal vocal effort from Spears. This time around, her pleasant yet thin voice comes through more clearly, not aided by as many layers and studio manipulations. She is also credited with co-writing two tracks.
Spears spends much of her energy trying to get people in the mood to groove, and it works on fun disco tracks like "Womanizer," "Shattered Glass" and the cleverly titled "If U Seek Amy" (say it fast and you might need your mouth washed out with soap). She teams up with former collaborators like Max Martin (who wrote her career-making hit "... Baby One More Time") and Nate "Danja" Hills, who was responsible for some of the best music on "Blackout." But newcomers also help out, like the Outsyders (on "Womanizer").
A few songs hint at the media circus her life has become, including "Kill the Lights," where Spears takes on the paparazzi.
But she strikes the most personal and emotional chords on the slower tracks, most notably on the dreamy, synth-centric "Unusual You," on which she coos, "Baby you're so unusual, didn't anyone tell you you're so s'pposed to break my heart, I expect you to, so why haven't you?" Though she didn't write the song, it's hard not to wince in empathy when you think about the string of users who have filtered in and out of her life.
The most poignant track is the ballad "My Baby," co-written by Spears. On it, she sings to her "precious love." It's an ode to one of her sons, with lines like, "How did I get through all of my days without you?" Considering she doesn't have full custody of her two boys and is trying to strengthen her parental bond after a period of turmoil, it's especially touching — so much so that we can forgive the song for being just a little bit sugary. After all her recent drama, Spears deserves something sweet in her life.
___
CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: Acknowledging that many fans probably didn't hear her best work on "Blackout," Spears includes "Radar," one of the standout tracks from that CD — as a bonus track on "Circus." She should have included the whole CD and done a double disc.
It's time for another Britney Spears comeback: Call this one the remix version.
It was only last year that our damaged diva attempted to put the focus back on her once spectacular music career with "Blackout." A tight collection of sexy club-oriented grooves, "Blackout" was a delight, and had so much hit-worthy material even Janet Jackson could have been resurrected with it.
But "Blackout" never had a chance at success because its star wasn't as well put together as the album. (It's hard to generate hits when your personal life is in turmoil.)
Now Spears — while still very different from her previous superstar incarnation, circa 1998-2003 — seems on the road to recovery, thanks to court-appointed guidance from her dad and other positive developments. She seems ready for a rebirth, so it's fitting that "Circus" — her sixth studio album — makes its debut as she celebrates her 27th birthday.And like any good circus, Britney's version will leave you thoroughly entertained. Though "Blackout" was a gem, it seemed like the album was mainly due to the creative and technological wizardry of its producers, with minimal vocal effort from Spears. This time around, her pleasant yet thin voice comes through more clearly, not aided by as many layers and studio manipulations. She is also credited with co-writing two tracks.
Spears spends much of her energy trying to get people in the mood to groove, and it works on fun disco tracks like "Womanizer," "Shattered Glass" and the cleverly titled "If U Seek Amy" (say it fast and you might need your mouth washed out with soap). She teams up with former collaborators like Max Martin (who wrote her career-making hit "... Baby One More Time") and Nate "Danja" Hills, who was responsible for some of the best music on "Blackout." But newcomers also help out, like the Outsyders (on "Womanizer").
A few songs hint at the media circus her life has become, including "Kill the Lights," where Spears takes on the paparazzi.
But she strikes the most personal and emotional chords on the slower tracks, most notably on the dreamy, synth-centric "Unusual You," on which she coos, "Baby you're so unusual, didn't anyone tell you you're so s'pposed to break my heart, I expect you to, so why haven't you?" Though she didn't write the song, it's hard not to wince in empathy when you think about the string of users who have filtered in and out of her life.
The most poignant track is the ballad "My Baby," co-written by Spears. On it, she sings to her "precious love." It's an ode to one of her sons, with lines like, "How did I get through all of my days without you?" Considering she doesn't have full custody of her two boys and is trying to strengthen her parental bond after a period of turmoil, it's especially touching — so much so that we can forgive the song for being just a little bit sugary. After all her recent drama, Spears deserves something sweet in her life.
___
CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: Acknowledging that many fans probably didn't hear her best work on "Blackout," Spears includes "Radar," one of the standout tracks from that CD — as a bonus track on "Circus." She should have included the whole CD and done a double disc.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Jonas Brothers - SOS Music Video
Jonas Brothers "SOS" music video. Taken from their new album in stores Aug 7th, 2007.
Madonna On Track To Set Record With Sticky & Sweet Tour
Singer is three weeks away from finishing the highest-grossing tour by a female or solo artist.
Madonna has a lot of records under her sequin-studded belt. Now she can add another. With the Mexico/South American dates on her Sticky & Sweet Tour wrapping up in three weeks, Madonna is on track to take in about $282 million from the jaunt, which would give her the crown for the top-grossing tour ever by a female artist or solo artist, Reuters reports.
The 28 dates on the North American leg of the tour -- which came amid the turmoil of the singer's separation and subsequent divorce from filmmaker Guy Ritchie -- grossed around $91.5 million, with the concert being seen by almost 550,000. That leg of the tour wrapped up last Wednesday with a show in front of 50,000 fans at Dolphin Stadium in Miami. On Saturday and Sunday, the tour hit Mexico City, where, coincidentally, the man Madonna is rumored to be dating, Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez, was in town to teach local children how to swing a bat, according to >The Associated Press.
Before the South American dates, Madonna had already grossed around $207.5 million between the North American and European shows on the tour, according to Reuters. The run wraps up with a three-night stand in Sao Paulo, Brazil, beginning December 18.
Despite her massive expected take, Madonna still has a long way to go before she catches up to the undisputed top touring act of all time, the Rolling Stones, whose A Bigger Bang tour from 2005-2007 grossed more than $558 million.
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