MUSICAL HEAVEN

Kelly Clarkson's Album Sales Rise 200% After Controversy

2011-12-31T18:32:00.003-05:00

Kelly Clarkson's endorsement of Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul appears to be helping her record sales. By a lot.

After voicing her support for Paul, and taking heat on Twitter in the process, Clarkson's latest album, Stronger, is going gangbusters on Amazon, spiking 200 percent in sales on the e-tailer within a 72-hour period, according to the website.

To whit: on Tuesday, the album ranked 41st on Amazon's list of "Movers & Shakers in Music"; three days later, it is #13 (and possibly climbing).

Earlier this week, Clarkson sparked outrage when she professed her admiration for Paul on her Twitter and WhoSay accounts, posting: "I love Ron Paul. I liked him a lot during the last republican nomination and no one gave him a chance. If he wins the nomination for the Republican party in 2012 he's got my vote. Too bad he probably won't."

Thus ensued a firestorm of negative feedback from Clarkson's almost 1 million followers on Twitter, many of whom claimed Paul has tolerated homophobia stemming from his newsletters from the 1970s and '80s.

"Man my eyes have been opened to so much hate tonight," Clarkson responded on Twitter. "If y'all ever disagree with something I say please don't feel the need to attack me. I will listen to what you say and any articles or viewpoints you have when you say it with respect. Being hateful is not a healthy way to get people to see or hear you."

Kelly Clarkson's Album Sales Rise 200% After Controversy

2011-12-31T18:32:00.001-05:00

Kelly Clarkson Re-Arranges Old/New Songs for Upcoming EP!

2011-11-24T16:53:00.001-05:00

The band and I recorded different versions of new and old "Kelly Clarkson" songs for a special ITunes package. It was a lot of fun! We also put a Christmas song on there as well. I can't wait to make a Christmas album. It was such a tease

http://www.whosay.com/kellyclarkson/content/153377?code=KMJ1240

Lauren Bennett is part of the new PCD

2011-11-24T16:48:00.000-05:00

You heard Lauren Bennett with LMFAO & GoonRock on Billboard's No. 1 Song of the Summer, "Party Rock Anthem," now you're about to hear her with a new entourage: The Pussycat Dolls.

Talking to Billboard.com on the red carpet at the American Music Awards earlier this week, Bennett confirmed herself as a part of the newly regrouped recording group. This makes her the first member of a brand new lineup that creator Robin Antin confirmed to Billboard was in the process of being built.

"We're currently figuring out who's in the group and we're working on an album," Bennett says of the Pussycat Dolls. This will not be Bennett's first girl group: She was once a part of the ill-fated Paradiso Girls under Interscope.

In the meantime, fans can hear the future Doll on her own with solo single, "I Wish I Wish," or see her as a part of the touring Pussycat Doll burlesque troupe.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T16:47:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone has an awesome Thanksgiving.
MH

2011-11-05T20:55:00.001-05:00

Anyway, feel free to use as much or little as you think fits...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

The Top 10 Workout Songs For November

San Francisco, CA – Nov 1, 2011 – This month's top 10 list has a little of what you'd expect—and a little you might not. Flo Rida, who's no stranger to this list, shows up once again. Enrique Iglesias continues his transition from balladeer to club rocker. And Kelly Clarkson, after faltering with the first single off her new album, bounced back ferociously with the second.

As for surprises, they're mostly entries from folks relatively new on the dance scene. Highlights include songs from Tim Berg (who remixed his own track under his Avicii moniker), Skrillex (whose collaboration with Kaskade is the first dubstep track ever the make the Top 10), and Wolfgang Gartner (who's made the chart with a little help from Will.I.Am).

Here's the full list, according to votes placed on Run Hundred--the web's most popular workout songs database.

Tim Berg - Seek Bromance (Avicii Vocal Edit) - 127 BPM

Kelly Rowland & Lil Wayne - Motivation (Rebel Rock Remix) - 130 BPM

Wolfgang Gartner & Will.I.Am - Forever - 128 BPM

Britney Spears - I Wanna Go (Oliver Remix) - 129 BPM

Taio Cruz & Flo Rida - Hangover - 129 BPM

Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull & The WAV.s - I Like How It Feels - 129 BPM

Kaskade & Skrillex - Lick It - 128 BPM

Young The Giant - My Body - 130 BPM

Flo Rida - Good Feeling - 129 BPM

Kelly Clarkson - What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) - 117 BPM

To find more workout songs-and hear next month's contenders—folks can check out Run Hundred's free database of work out music. Visitors can browse the song selections there by genre, tempo, and era-to find the music that best fits with their particular workout routine.

Sent by http://www.runhundred.com/

Adele Reaches A 'Titanic' Record With '21'

2011-10-31T19:17:00.000-05:00

Soulful singer Adele's album "21" reached a "titanic" milestone this week, in spite of being forced to cancel all of her 2011 performances as a result of a planned throat surgery.
Once again hitting the coveted number one spot of the Billboard 200, "21" enjoys its 13th week atop the list. It's the first album to spend that many weeks at number one since the soundtrack for the 1998 motion picture "Titanic." Billboard.com reports that "21" is this year's biggest selling album at over 4 million copies sold.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2011/10/29/adele-reaches-titanic-achievement-in-spite-voice-issues/#ixzz1cJ7AEGzl

Drake Announces Final 'Take Care' Tracklist

2011-10-31T19:11:00.000-05:00

1. Over My Dead Body
2. Shot For Me
3. Headlines
4. Crew Love feat. The Weeknd
5. Take Care feat. Rihanna
6. Marvin’s Room / Buried Alive Interlude
7. Under Ground Kings
8. We’ll Be Fine
9. Make Me Proud feat. Nicki Minaj
10. Lord Knows feat. Rick Ross
11. Cameras / Good Ones Go Interlude
12. Doing It Wrong
13. The Real Her feat. Andre 3000 and Lil Wayne
14. HYFR (Hell Ya Fu**in Right)
15. Look What You’ve Done
16. Practice
17. The Ride

http://allthings-fresh.net/blog/2011/10/take-cares-official-track-listing-features/

Katy Perry Achieved 3rd Single That Hits 5 Million Mark

2011-10-29T23:19:00.000-05:00

Katy Perry this week becomes the first artist in digital history to sell 5 million or more copies of three different hits. She achieves the feat as "Firework" tops the 5 million mark. The exhilarating smash follows "Hot N Cold" (which is up to 5,044,000) and "California Gurls," featuring Snoop Dogg, which is up to 5,033,000). (All three smashes have topped the 5 million mark in just the past two months.)

P/s: E.T could be her 4th, since it already achieved Quadruple Platinum!

Source: Yahoo Music

Congrats Katy
MH

More of The Voice

2011-10-29T23:18:00.001-05:00

The Voice executive producer, Mark Burnett announced at at press conference on Friday that the show’s post-Super Bowl premiere on February 5 will go straight to the blind auditions. Actually, that’s also how Season 1 began, but the big news is that instead of 8 contestants on each of the coaches’ teams, there will be 12 with more weeks of blind audition rounds.

Burnett says that’s what fans really responded to in season 1, and it’s the thing that sets The Voice apart from other competition reality shows like American Idol and X Factor.

Christina Aguilera says the premiere will begin with a “kick ass” performance from her and fellow coaches, Cee Lo Green, Blake Shelton and Adam Levine. Host, Cason Daly now has a producer credit on the show.

Christina revealed that she has an opera singer on her team!

Other tidbits from my twitter feed:

The top four from last season all have albums coming out. Some of the coaches plan on collaborating with their artists on those.

“I’m an advocate of honesty and directness. Tough love is necessary every now and again.” – @CeeLoGreen on his coaching style.

Each coach made it clear that they would NOT sign on if the show was going to bring out weak singers to humiliate them.

All of #thevoice coaches say they still keep in touch with their team’s finalists from last season

Via @TVGuideMagazine, @NBCTheVoice

Katy Perry: I Still Want Rihanna Collaboration

2011-10-29T23:14:00.002-05:00

The ‘Teenage Dream’ star said she was hopeful that the duet would come off in the future, but only if the song was right.

“I hope so, one of these days,” she told Capital FM’s Showbiz reporter Kevin Hughes when asked about her plans to work with Rihanna.

“But the thing is we’re not just going to cash in on that idea unless it’s bulletproof, because you really only get one shot at that.”

Katy added: “We’re friends above and beyond all the other stuff, so if we’re going to work together it has to be dynamite.”

Meanwhile, Katy also said she was a big fan of Rihanna’s new video ‘We Found Love’.

She said Rihanna had shown a “really honest side” with the video for the first single off her new album ‘Talk That Talk’ out in November 21st.

New Info on 'The Voice' 2nd Season

2011-10-29T23:14:00.001-05:00

When NBC's The Voice returns next season, it will be bigger than ever. There will be more blind audition rounds, in which singers perform for the coaches sight unseen, and 12 contestants per team, up from Season 1's eight.

The Voice names Christina Milian as new social media correspondent

It's not yet clear exactly how many more blind audition episodes will air — they ran for two weeks earlier this year — but executive producer Mark Burnett says the decision to expand came from viewer feedback and having more time to produce them. "We put the show on so quickly last year. We only had four months," he told TVGuide.com after a press conference Friday. "And the biggest complaint that we got was, 'Awww, the blind auditions ended so early.' It was a quick blip. So I managed to make a lot more blind auditions and clearly we're responding to what our fans are asking for."

Series coaches — Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton — told reporters they remain unworried about the glut of music shows. The Voice returns in February after the Super Bowl, and after The X Factor wraps in December, but it will still have to contend with a new season of American Idol. Aguilera says The Voice's process when it comes to selecting singers -- the coaches listening only to a performer's voice and then swinging around in those huge red chairs — remains unmatched. "There's not a more suspenseful TV show out there," she said. (Burnett added: "These chairs have become stars in their own right.")

Is Carson Daly the founding father of social TV?

Asked specifically about the similarities to Simon Cowell's X Factor, Burnett told TVGuide.com he'd only seen "maybe 10 minutes" of the show. "They certainly spent a lot of money, it's certainly big. I don't think it's different from anything else I've seen," he said. So while X Factor will award its winner with a $5 million recording contract, The Voice will stick with its $100,000. "Do you know what that reminds me of? It reminds of Austin Powers. 'One meeeellion dollars,'" Burnett said. "I mean, people aren't watching the show for that."

As for the new crop of Voice contestants — all selected now that the show has finished filming Season 2's blind auditions -- the coaches say they got extra competitive when it came to filling out their rosters. "We know the game now. It's an intense competition this year," Aguilera said. She boasted that her team includes an opera singer "who makes you cry."

"You sit there wondering why these people don't have record contracts," she said.

Those contestants are also savvier than ever when it comes to picking who they want to work with. "Now, they're all like, 'What can you do for me?'" Aguilera said. "They know how it works" when more than one of the coaches want in. "All of a sudden, we're the ones pitching ourselves," Levine said.

z100 Jingle Ball Performers Announced: Gaga, Demi, and more!

2011-10-22T12:47:00.000-05:00

NEW YORK, Oct. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Today, Z100, New York's Hit Music Station, unveiled the star-studded line-up and special guest presenters for the annual holiday concert Z100's Jingle Ball 2011, presented by Aeropostale, which will take place on Friday, December 9, 7:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden. Mayor Bloomberg has issued a special proclamation officially declaring December 9, 2011 Z100's Jingle Ball Day in New York City.

This afternoon popular recording artist Demi Lovato joined Z100's JJ at Aeropostale's Times Square store to make the official announcement of the all-star lineup for Z100's Jingle Ball, which includes: Lady Gaga, Pitbull, Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, David Guetta, LMFAO, Foster the People, Gym Class Heroes and Hot Chelle Rae. Special guest hosts will include: Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian Odom, Lamar Odom and Karmin, with more to be announced.

Tickets will be sold EXCLUSIVELY to ZVIP members via Ticketmaster starting November 1 at 4 p.m. ET. Listeners can register for FREE to become a ZVIP member by logging on to Z100.com keyword: ZVIP. Any tickets not sold will be available for public purchase starting Wednesday, November 2 at 4 p.m. ET via ticketmaster.com.

"There's nothing more exciting than the reaction we see from people when they hear those three magic words: 'Z100's. Jingle. Ball!' Every year it's the must-see music event of the season, and people will do anything to get their hands on tickets," said Sharon Dastur, Z100's Program Director. "It's the perfect way to end the year: getting together with 18,000 of your closest friends and celebrating the year in music."

Popular teen retailer Aeropostale is the presenting sponsor for Z100's Jingle Ball 2011. "Aeropostale has the must-have styles and Z100 has today's hottest music," says Scott Birnbaum, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Ecommerce. "We look forward to it all coming together at Z100's Jingle Ball, the most anticipated concert of the season."

Every year Z100's Jingle Ball gives back to the community to celebrate the holiday season. This year's official charity partner for Z100's Jingle Ball is STOMP Out Bullying, (TM) a national anti-bullying/cyberbullying program for kids and teens. It is the signature program of Love Our Children USA(TM) which, since 1999, has been the national nonprofit leader and 'go-to' prevention organization fighting all forms of violence and neglect against children in the U.S.

"To be selected as the Z100's Jingle Ball 2011 charity is truly an honor," said Ross Ellis, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of STOMP Out Bullying(TM). "Not only is this a wonderful way to raise funds, but it raises awareness that bullying is wrong, the suicides are senseless, and all forms of bullying, hatred, cruelty and homophobia must end."

Z100's Jingle Ball 2011 will kick off with the action-packed Z100 & Coca Cola's All Access Lounge. The FREE event will include performances by Z100 artists and meet & greets with fan favorites. The FREE indoor festival will feature music as well as interactive displays from some of today's hottest brands and products. The event will take place from 12 - 6 p.m. ET at Hammerstein Ballroom, 311 W 34th St, New York, NY and will welcome fans of all ages.

For the second year in a row, Z100's Jingle Ball will host a nationwide search for the next big musical act called Z100's Hometown Hero presented by State Farm. Z100 has teamed up with Eventful, Inc., a leading online digital consumer and entertainment service, to launch Z100's Hometown Hero 2011. Music artists and bands alike can sign up and compete on Eventful's unique "Demand it!" service, which empowers their fans to "Demand" that they win the chance to perform live on stage at Z100 & Coca-Cola's All Access Lounge, the official pre-event to Z100's Jingle Ball and have their first official music video produced by Z100.

"Z100 has a long history of breaking new artists. It wasn't too long ago that artists like Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber were performing at Z100's All Access Lounge," said Darren Pfeffer, Director of Marketing for Clear Channel Radio New York. "With Z100's Hometown Hero, we're able to give our community a say in who gets to take the stage at this star-making event."

For more information and to register for Z100's Hometown Hero contest log on to www.Z100.com keyword: Jingle Ball.

Z100's Jingle Ball 2011 will air on Fuse, the national music television network of The Madison Square Garden Company exclusively on December 18 at 7 p.m. ET. This will be the second year music fans across the country will have the opportunity to experience the highly anticipated annual event on television.

"Z100's Jingle Ball has shared the biggest and brightest artists with audiences at Madison Square Garden since the first show in 1996," said Mike Bair, President, MSG Media. "We are thrilled that as part of the Garden family, Fuse can capture and share with music lovers the best performances from the world's greatest arena for the second year in a row."

For up-to-minute information on Z100's Jingle Ball 2011 listen to Z100, New York's Hit Music Station, or log on to www.Z100.com keyword: Jingle Ball.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/z100s-jingle-ball-2011-presented-by-aeropostale-rings-in-the-season-with-star-studded-annual-holiday-concert-2011-10-21

Dev Pushes Debut Album Back To 2012.

2011-10-22T12:42:00.000-05:00

Amazon now has the singer/rapper's debut album being released January 10th.

Source

Kelly Clarkson Interview

2011-10-17T22:02:00.001-05:00

Kelly Clarkson is STRONGER (and
absolutely adorable)!

Walking into an interview with Kelly Clarkson, Same Same immediately noticed that this southern belle has not been changed by fame one bit. ‘Come in! Take a seat y’all!’ she ushered as we sat down to chat with one of the sweetest stars we’ve ever come across (looking gorgeous, might we add!).

We caught up with her on her recent visit to Australia, to talk about her fifth studio album, Stronger, and what it’s like to be in the business for over ten years…

What is the narrative and inspiration behind Stronger?
I guess I’ve been doing it for ten years now, so I think with that came experience, and it just makes you feel more comfortable when you’re more experienced in anything. Everything ended up kind of being about empowerment and overcoming stuff so I think generally it’s inspiring, so I hope that’s what people get from it.

You’ve mentioned in interviews that Stronger was not the album you started off making. What was the original direction of the album?

It never happens. With every record you always start off thinking it’s gonna be one way, and then it’s like… (boop) all the way over here. Like, we didn’t think it was going to be that soulful honestly; it’s a lot more soulful, even with Mr. Know It All or Let me down. I’ve always had a soulful voice on stuff, but even the rhythmic pop rock thing, that’s kinda new for me, it kinda just happened!

What’s the song on Stronger that you are the most proud of?

You Love Me. Hands down. It was a really crap situation. It was just a really bad day, one of the worst ever; don’t think I’ll have a bad one like that again. I think it’s great that being an artist you can take a bad day like that and almost use it as therapy to get it out and I think a lot of people will relate to this song. The whole idea is when people are like “I love you, but this is what you need to change about yourself and this is what’s not good about you,” and it’s like “Wow I think you’re highly confused about the definition of love.” The whole song is like, “your love is like a punch in the face.” It’s very Prince, Tina Turner, pop which I love.

‘Let Me Down’ which you wrote has a really strong message, much like it has been lifted off My December. What’s the story behind the song?

There’s kind of a little bit of everything of all my previous records, like from Thankful, and then from Breakaway, so yeah it’s kind of a conglomerate of all my previous albums which we did on purpose because those are all very different sides of me. ‘Let Me Down’, I call the cooler older brother of ‘Behind These Hazel Eyes’, because it’s pop-rock but it’s a little soulful as well.

Who’s the bastard that it’s about?

Actually it’s a co-worker, it wasn’t even a relationship, it was someone that I worked with.

(NB: Same Same wouldn’t be surprised if the song’s subject was Ryan Tedder. Kelly was said to be working with Tedder again after the ‘Already Gone’/’Halo’ fiasco but nothing from their recording sessions made the final cut.)

Tell me the story behind ‘You Can’t Win’. What were you feeling when you wrote it?

I wrote it about a year and a half ago when I was touring All I Ever Wanted, and I think I was in Germany and [my makeup artist] was very annoyed with me because I wrote it during hair and make-up, and so she was trying to do stuff and I was like “I need to go to the bathroom and record this in Garageband or I’m gonna forget the melody!” so I had to go and do it; I always do that to her and she gets pissed off, but I can’t help it! You get inspired when you get inspired!

I wrote the song about having a really hard time with not even just people I was working with but just media, and the portrayal of All I Ever Wanted, fans and friends and family… everybody was like, you can’t win. If you’re the girl next door it’s like ‘boring’, or if you’re wild and crazy it’s like ‘oh you need to go to rehab’. Or people will be like ‘Oh, you’re gay, right?’, and I’m like ‘well, no’, but then it’s like ‘if you’re straight, why aren’t you married?’, so it’s like I can’t win either way! It’s that whole thing of I’m never gonna please you, so I’m going to stop trying.

Are you prepared for the can of worms you’re about to open now that you’ve recorded a drag anthem in What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger)?

I love that song! I’m not even a drag diva but I love that song! It’s one of my favourite ones I’ve ever recorded. I love that it has the beat, but its also very pop rock with guitars and such a great message. Sometimes when it’s an anthem it’s throw away lyrics, but they’re great lyrics and they’re so inspiring. Sometimes when you’re having a crap day, you just wanna listen to something that makes you feel like you can move a mountain, and I feel like that when I listen to that song.

Second single?

Hopefully! That’s what I’m shooting for. Sometimes we don’t have a say.

Over the years you’ve released some really amazing songs. What’s your favourite and least favourite single that you have released?

You know what, that’s probably the same song. My Life Would Suck Without You. It’s my least favourite because when I first heard it, it did not sound like what it sounds like now, and I really had to fight to make that song better than it was, but when I first heard it, it was nothing I would say, the verses were like “I saw you smoking pot and I thought that was cool” (she sings) and I was like… What? I didn’t even get it, it was trying so hard to be edgy and cool that I wanted to vomit! I didn’t really like it at all. But Luke, Claude and Max (Dr. Luke, Claude Kelly, Max Martin) were cool with me having a hand in that. It ended up being one of my favourites now to perform live because everybody gets up for that song. And it’s a great song now, it’s a fun song.

What track do you wish got a single release from your back catalogue?

The live version of Beautiful Disaster. It’s one of my favourites. I didn’t like the album version on the first record, total crap and I didn’t like it. The producer didn’t either! He wanted to do it how we did it live but we… weren’t allowed. But the live version, Rebecca Jordan wrote that and it’s one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever gotten to sing so I was really sad that wasn’t a single.

You’ve been working on a side project with your backup singers called Already Famous. Will we see an official release of material?

We did an EP and it’s still being mixed, but it’s just a fun side project, there’s no political crap going on, so it’s just fun.

Looking back over everything you’ve learnt over your career, what would be the one piece of advice you’d give to yourself before you walked into your Idol audition?
Never take advice from someone you wouldn’t want to switch places with.

That’s it. I learnt that from a friend, her mum told her that a long time ago, and she told me two years ago and I could have really used that! Because if you think about it, if you don’t like how someone’s life is and how they’re living it, then you don’t wanna take advice from them.

I’ve decided to start a rumour that you and Adele are working on a disco banger in the vein of I Will Survive. What do I have to do to make sure this rumour becomes a reality?

Do it! Yes! Oh my God, you have no idea, she probably thinks I’m so obsessed with her (which I kind of am), like, since Chasing Pavements , I literally flew to a different city to see her in concert… and she knows that. She probably thinks I’m nuts, but I just love her voice! And there’s something so sexy and confident about a girl that can just walk up on a stage amongst all these other wild acts, and she has a piano and microphone and a mic stand and she just kills everyone. I’m telling you, [Someone Like You] is the best freaking song written in the last decade. Her heartache is our awesome day. I feel sad for her because she writes like me, like all about what’s going on in her life but at the same time it’s like thank you, because it’s one of the best songs ever.

When are you coming back for a tour?

We start in January in the States, then after that we come here and New Zealand and everywhere.

Can you please sing Anytime from Thankful when you come back?

[Screaming] That’s [my make up artist’s] favourite song! She loves a power ballad, it’s my Céline song. It’s getting harder to make set lists though, I have 5 albums now!

Will you play Mardi Gras if you’re here in time?

You know what, we might be here around then!

You’ll have 10,000 screaming gays at your feet…

I was just saying, you’re my favourite fans! Because it’s like, they love anthems, the pop ballads, and those are my favourites too.

What are your three favourite songs at the moment?

Someone Like You, Ellie Goulding’s Under The Sheets, I love her album, Lights, um… I like Set Fire— oh I don’t want to pick her again, she’s gonna think I’m fucking obsessive… and Mary Jane from Jagged Little Pill when I’m trying to do anything but work out.

If I told you Kyle Chandler has left his wife, what would your first reaction be?

Call me! He’s so hot, I would be anything he wanted me to be! He’s so beautiful.

This week Same Same has released a list of the 50 worst pop songs as voted by our readers – but don’t worry, you’re not on it…

Damn! I love to make any list!

(Reading) What! Whip My Hair!? I love that song.

(Continues reading) Paris Hilton has a song?

Yeah, she’s got a whole album.

Oops. I mean, I knew that.

Baby? That made the worst? I think he’s so cute. I haven’t heard a lot of these… what (confused), Just The Way You Are (Drunk At The Bar)? Can I just have this to look them up? Oh my God, Who Let The Dogs Out! I hate that song, I’ve hated that song since junior high, sorry Baha Men!

Source: http://www.samesame.com.au/features/7469/Kelly-Clarkson-is-STRONGER-and-absolutely-adorable.htm

Great interview.
MH

Being..

2011-10-16T22:42:00.002-05:00

Sick + having finals coming up = annoyed as hell. i will back to posting later this week.

Billboard's 21 Under 21: Music's Hottest Minors List

2011-09-30T13:53:00.000-05:00

01 Justin Bieber
02 Tyler, The Creator
03 Selena Gomez
04 Scotty McCreery
05 Jackie Evancho
06 Mac Miller
07 Demi Lovato
08 Nick Jonas
09 Rye Rye
10 Victoria Justice
11 Lex Luger
12 Il Volo
13 Cody Simpson
14 Willow Smith
15 Greyson Chance
16 Mindless Behaviour
17 HyunA
18 Porter Robinson
19 One Direction
20 Miguelito
21 Miley Cyrus

lol at this list.
MH

VH1′s 100 Greatest Songs of the ’00s”

2011-09-30T13:50:00.001-05:00

“VH1′s 100 Greatest Songs of the ’00s” List:

1.
Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z, “Crazy in Love”
2. OutKast, “Hey Ya!”
3. Lady Gaga, “Poker Face”
4. Eminem, “Lose Yourself”
5. Kelly Clarkson, “Since U Been Gone”
6. Kanye West featuring Jamie Foxx, “Gold Digger”
7. Justin Timberlake featuring Timbaland, “SexyBack”
8. Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys, “Empire State of Mind”
9. Mariah Carey, “We Belong Together”
10. 50 Cent, “In Da Club”
11. Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, “Umbrella”
12. Black Eyed Peas, “I Gotta Feeling”
13. Green Day, “American Idiot”
14. Gnarls Barkley, “Crazy”
15. U2 , “Beautiful Day”
16. Beyoncé, “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)”
17. Coldplay, “Clocks”
18. Christina Aguilera, “Beautiful”
19. Destiny’s Child, “Bootylicious”
20. Britney Spears, “Toxic”
21. Jay-Z , “99 Problems”
22. Alicia Keys, “Fallin’”
23. P!nk, “Get the Party Started”
24. Missy Elliott, “Get Ur Freak On”
25. Nelly, “Hot in Here”
26. The White Stripes, “Seven Nation Army”
27. Usher featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, “Yeah!”
28. Madonna, “Music”
29. Foo Fighters, “The Best of You”
30. Gwen Stefani, “Hollaback Girl”
31. Amy Winehouse, “Rehab”
32. Maroon 5, “This Love”
33. Johnny Cash, “Hurt ”
34. Janet Jackson, “All For You”
35. John Mayer, “Daughters”
36. *NSYNC, “Bye Bye Bye”
37. Britney Spears, “Oops!…I Did It Again”
38. Miley Cyrus, “Party in the U.S.A.”
39. Adele, “Chasing Pavements ”
40. Fall Out Boy, “Sugar, We’re Going Down”
41. R. Kelly, “Trapped in the Closet”
42. Train, “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)”
43. Katy Perry, “I Kissed a Girl”
44. Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Californication”
45. Eve featuring Gwen Stefani, “Let Me Blow Ya Mind”
46. Kid Rock & Sheryl Crow, “Picture”
47. Christina, Lil’ Kim, Mya, Pink, “Lady Marmalade”
48. Kings of Leon, “Sex On Fire”
49. Lady Gaga, “Bad Romance”
50. Taylor Swift, “You Belong With Me”
51. Natasha Bedingfield, “Pocketful of Sunshine”
52. Shakira feautring Wyclef, “Hips Don’t Lie”
53. Blink-182, “All the Small Things ”
54. Norah Jones, “Don’t Know Why”
55. The Killers, “Mr. Brightside”
56. DMX, “Party Up (Up In Here)”
57. Mary J. Blige, “Family Affair”
58. Jason Mraz, “I’m Yours”
59. Justin Timberlake, “Cry Me a River”
60. Ke$ha, “Tik Tok”
61. Kelis, “Milkshake”
62. Avril Lavigne, “Complicated”
63. Andrew W.K., “Party Hard”
64. Jennifer Lopez featuring Ja Rule, “I’m Real (Murder Remix)”
65. Aaliyah, “Try Again”
66. Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell, “Drop It Like It’s Hot”
67. Leona Lewis, “Bleeding Love”
68. Ludacris featuring Shawnna, “Stand Up”
69. Evanescence, “Bring Me to Life”
70. Chris Brown featuring Juelz Santana, “Run It!”
71. Colbie Caillat, “Bubbly”
72. Jet, “Are You Gonna Be My Girl”
73. Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland, “Promiscuous”
74. Chamillionaire featuring Krayzie Bone, “Ridin’”
75. Gavin Degraw, “I Don’t Want to Be”
76. T.I. featuring Rihanna, “Live Your Life”
77. Nickleback, “How You Remind Me”
78. Plain White T’s, “Hey There Delilah”
79. Enrique Iglesias, “Hero”
80. Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz featuring Ying Yang Twins, “Get Low”
81. Bruce Springsteen, “The Rising”
82. Matchbox Twenty, “Unwell”
83. D’Angelo, “(Untitled) How Does It Feel”
84. Linkin Park, “In the End”
85. Macy Gray, “I Try”
86. Aerosmith, “Jaded”
87. The Darkness, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love”
88. Fountains of Wayne, “Stacy’s Mom”
89. M.I.A., “Paper Planes”
90. Mystikal, “Shake Ya Ass”
91. Creed, “With Arms Wide Open”
92. Flo Rida featuring T-Pain, “Low”
93. Ok Go, “Here It Goes Again”
94. Daughtry, “It’s Not Over”
95. James Blunt, “You’re Beautiful”
96. Pussycat Dolls featuring Busta Rhymes, “Don’t Cha”
97. Shaggy, “It Wasn’t Me”
98. 3 Doors Down, ‘Kryptonite”
99. Carrie Underwood, “Before He Cheats”
100. Sisq?, “Thong Song”

Quote:
September 29, 201 – VH1 once again declares a new “100 Greatest…” list with the best jams of “the ’00s.” Hosted by Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz, VH1 will take viewers on a ride to relieve the decade of Y2K with the 5-night, 1-hour special VH1′s “100 Greatest Songs of the ’00s” starting Monday, October 3 at 10/9c. Additional guest commentators and artists scheduled to appear include Natasha Bedingfield, Kelly Rowland, Train, Colbie Caillat, Lil’ John, The Plain White T’s and more.

Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love” featuring Jay-Z comes in at number one, hailing as the decade’s top song followed by OutKast’s 2007 song, “Hey Ya!” The following songs landed rankings three through 10: Lady Gaga, “Poker Face;” Eminem, “Lose Yourself;” Kelly Clarkson, “Since U Been Gone;” Kanye West featuring Jamie Foxx, “Gold Digger;” Justin Timberlake featuring Timbaland, “SexyBack;” Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys, “Empire State of Mind;” Mariah Carey, “We Belong Together;” and 50 Cent, “In Da Club.”

How the hell is Slave 4 U not on there. SMH at the list. And Toxic needs to be higher.
MH

Pitbull's 4th Single is...

2011-09-30T13:48:00.000-05:00

... International Love (Feat. Chris Brown)
Goes for radio adds October 11th
http://www.allaccess.com/top40-rhythmic/future-releases

Leona Lewis Interview

2011-09-17T14:53:00.000-05:00

It is early August in London and Leona Lewis is singing. It's subtle and barely loud enough to be heard, but her lips are moving and the delicate sound of her soaring voice can just be be made out. She is standing in the middle of a large photo studio for our Rollacoaster cover shoot and a nearby sound system is blasting out classic hits like Whitney Houston's "Queen of the Nile" and "Set You Free" by N-Trance and she simply cannot resist but sing along. It is easy to imagine that if she were to allow herself to project to full live-performance volume, she would easily match the vocals of the original singers - or effortlessly exceed them.

It was over five years ago that a shy Leona Lewis first appeared on our television screens as part of the third season of The X-Factor. Back before the production values were grossly inflated, hopefuls auditioned in an enclosed room in front of judges Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osborne, and Lewis' breathtaking rendition of "Over the Rainbow" made a seemingly uninterested Cowell snap to attention and declare, "That's what it's all about!" In the following weeks, the transformation between the timid girl backstage at the live shows and the powerful vocalist in front of the microphone had the nation falling in love, and on December 16, 2006, Lewis triumphed over runner-up Ray Quinn to become the first female winner of the competition.

As the photographer clicks today, the shy girl that was first on our screens is hardly visible. Appearing confident, relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera, Lewis laughs and jokes with the crew over the course of the day and is sure to thank everyone before we leave to talk at a nearby café. It had been almost two years since the release of her second album, Echo, and Lewis has been spending the last several months in recording studios in London, Sweden and LA as she works on the third.
"I can't wait for people to hear it," she says over cappuccinos. "There is a real trip-hop feel to some of it and then there is a real dance feel," she explains. Although fans of the ballads of her first two efforts need not worry as there are still enough of those to keep everybody satisfied. "you've still got to get those in there," she smiles. It was during the course of her sell-out 2010 UK arena tour, titled The Labyrinth, that Lewis decided it was time to shift gears with her music, and her forthcoming album is, in part, a result of the tour's success. "We remixed a lot of ballads into uptempo, energy-driven songs [to perform live]," she recounts. "And a lot of my fans were on Twitter saying, 'We want to hear you do something uptempo like on tour'. I really wanted that to spill over into the album, which is why we did 'Collide'."

Released last week, "Collide" is the first single to be drawn from the new album and reveals the more dancefloor-friendly beats fans can expect to accompany Lewis' signature vocals. The single was intended to be a stomping return for Lewis following months out of the charts and, although well received by critics and fans alike when it was first played on air back in July, online commentators quickly claimed the song "ripped off" the track "Penguin" from musician Avicii. This accusation was swiftly rebuffed by the record label and Lewis herself, and she explains as we talk that she and Avicii were to release "Collide" together. "It's not just in my morals," she tells us, mortified by the plagiarism accusations. "Why would I do that when it would blatantly get found out? Everything I have done is clean cut and above board and I've never done anything dodgy, so the one thing that people turn into a negative, they will. I think it's only a handful of people who want to ramble on about it, but it doesn't bother me," she states, adding defiantly, "Most people know it's not the truth. And I know it's not the truth."

Putting the situation behind her, the single nonetheless serves as a great precursor to the forthcoming album for which Lewis has worked with talents like Emelie Sandé, Sia, and long time collaborator Ryan Tedder. "He's a cool guy to work with," she breathes, still impressed by his song writing abilities. "He can do Adele and then he does One Republic, and the couple he has [for me] are properly dancy - I love that diversity." It would seem obvious that Lewis and Tedder would reunite having worked together on her biggest hit, 2007s "Bleeding Love", which rocketed to the top of music charts the world over and has sold in excess of 4.6 million copies. However, Lewis isn't pressuring herself under the success of her biggest hit. "I was so happy that it was a success and I definitely wanna have records that are as big because I want to keep going. But when 'Bleeding Love' came out there were five people who tried to make 'Bleeding Love' again. And when 'I Gotta Feeling' by Black Eyed Peas came out, ten people tried to recreate that. And it never works. Unless you do something completely different or progressive, then you are just selling yourself short - and I wouldn't want to do that." It must also be encouraging that Simon Cowell trusts her enough to allow her to create the album without him breathing down her next. "it's been amazing to have him and he has given me free reign on this to say when it's finished. Otherwise I would had to have released the album by the end of last year - which would have been really crazy," she says with a sigh of relief. "He is really good to have on side and I guess he really believed in me since the beginning and has always backed me up." Cowell remains the most famous person in Lewis's phone book ("No One tops that") and they speak on the phone "a couple of times a month - especially when the album is wrapping." Would he answer if she were to call him now? "His PA might pick up. He is crazy busy." And what would he say if he did answer? "Have you finished the album yet?" she laughs.

Although more self-assured than when she first came to the nation's attention, one of the attribute that makes Lewis so likeable is that she hasn't let her incredible fame go to her head. She still lives in Hackney, spends her allocated holiday time catching up with her family and manages to avoid desperate tabloid-grabbing behaviour. She reveals a story about one of her tattoos that demonstrates her wicked sense of humour (We nearly choke on our coffee as she offers to "get me tats out"), but then shows her compassionate side when she explains the small heart-shaped tattoo on her chest started to fade the day her tattooist died. It is not the supernatural edfe of this story that strikes us, but the heartfelt empathy she expresses for the wife and young child the tattooist left behind. Aren't celebrities of her calibre only meant to care about themselves? Aren't they supposed to make outlandish statements and attend events looking like they dressed in the dark? Doesn't she worry that some people may consider her personality a bit… boring?

"I've read it," she says. "Especially from one journalist who's never actually met me. But it doesn't bother me. I'd rather be seen like that than a harsh, brash person. If my friends said that, THEN we'd have something to worry about."

With a hectic work schedule, Lewis doesn't always have much time to spend with her friends but relishes every minute when she does. For fun she enjoys nights out at bars and clubs, hosting games nights at her house in Hackney or hanging out in parks - and hints that she might enjoy a night on the sauce more often than the press would be aware "I don't drink at events or when I know that I'm going to be photographed. I'm smart like that," she smiles, before bashfully revealing she last got drunk two days previously during a night out at London restaurant Nobu ("I had the white wine to myself and it must have been really strong…"). Exiting the dining venue, Lewis successfully concealed her intoxication when confronted by an audience of awaiting paparazzi at the establishment's doors - something she wasn't expecting. "I've never had that many paparazzi standing outside anywhere," she gasps. "I guess I've never been to Nobu before. Maybe they called them?"

Furthermore, she wasn't expecting all the positive press she received from Fashion Gossips about her "on trend" attire the following morning. "That was nice!" she beams. "Normally, they're like, 'She looks like shit!'"

Also present in the resulting paparazzi shots is German boyfriend, Dennis Jauch. The paid met while Leona was on her 2010 UK tour and Jauch (pronounced "Yow") performed as her backing dancer. Lewis roars with laughter when we point out that dating your backing dancer is a very Madonna thing to do, but appears reserved when asked if she will give more details about their relationship. "I try not to talk about it too much or give anything away. It's really important to have that as part of your private life," she states flatly, and seems pleased when we concede that we had been unsure whether she was even seeing anymore before the Nobu photographs, as her conversations about or appearances with Jauch are almost nil. "It is a definite worry that the press would want to expose anything from romantic relationships to life with your family. I don't want my brothers or nephews or anyone to be in the media because they haven't chosen to be there. They don't have a voice in it, so it's not fair on them."

Our shoot today is the first part of weeks of promotional work for Lewis and our time to talk is running out, so we quickly ask a final question while we have her in the flesh - does she keep in touch with XFactor runner up Ray Quinn? Her entire face lights up at the mention of his name. "Oh Ray!" she exclaims. "Little Ray! [A Pause] No. I haven't spoken to him in ages!" And yet she seems to know exactly what he's been doing for the last year and half, suggesting she keeps up to date with her fellow X Factor finalist's progress. We said she was compassionate.

Little over a week later and Leona Lewis is back in LA putting the final touches to her album. In the time since our shoot, London has descended into anarchy with riots raging across the capital over a three day period. Lewis' home area, Hackney, became engulfed in the street fighting and the star was at home when trouble started. Two cars were torched near her front door and her dad came close to being swept up in the carnage while traveling to her house to deliver a CD. "He saw this guy smash in a Mini's window and throw a petrol bomb in there, so he called me and was like, "Erm, how badly do you need this CD?" and I was like, "You need to run home right now!" It was insane!"

She describes the violence as both "disgusting" and "traumatising" but insists Hackney will remain her home. "You have to remember it is a very poor area and they're taking away funding for youth programmes but I just think [the rioting] was literally some hood rats that jumped on the bandwagon to go a bit insane. There are actually some really lovely areas in Hackney."

Staying in LA for ten days, Lewis is "keeping on top of things" by remaining on British time. Her resulting early mornings followed by hours in the studios and then heading to bed while the sun is still blazing show an incredibly hard working attitude. But hard work in the nature of the business and there are a number of busy months ahead with scheduled TV appearances, album promotions, performance dates in Japan and a mini tour of America - the last of which she is especially looking forward to, having initially been scheduled to support Christina Aguilera last year on her North American tour, which was cancelled at the final hour by the American following a number of personal issues ("How very dare she!" she jokes).
When she thinks back to the person she was on the X Factor, Lewis feels she's changed exponentially, but naturally. "i've come a long way since then and I've grown as a performer, as a singer, everything. I was in that weird teenage-adult stage for a long time - making decisions that perhaps weren't right, but I've realised in the last couple of years that I have grown up and I know myself so much more."
And in the time that we spoke has she got back in touch with Ray Quinn?
"No!" she wails apologetically. "i just haven't had any time. I'm sure we'll bump into each other at some point. I need to… because he's so cute!"

Very good read.
MH

Katy Perry's 6th Single Is...

2011-09-17T14:52:00.000-05:00

Nothing ventured, nothing gained."

Such is the thinking, as voiced by EMI Music/Capitol Records EVP/marketing and promotion Greg Thompson, behind the label's decision to release a sixth pop radio single from Katy Perry's album, "Teenage Dream."

The set's "The One That Got Away" goes for airplay next month.

The label stressed that it is not specifically releasing "One" with the hopes of rewriting Hot 100 history. Rather, the decision factors in Perry's fondness for the song, its ear-catching hook and her obvious track record of success at pop radio.

"If it goes to No. 1, that would be great," said Thompson. "If not, we still have a Katy song on the radio in fourth quarter," potentially fueling further sales for "Dream" in the busiest of shopping seasons.

Even if "One" is not a Hot 100 No. 1, Perry still offers her fans the gift of a Yuletide-timed release. If it does reach the apex, Perry herself opens the gift of unprecedented Hot 100 history.

Adding to the song's chart-topping potential: a "touch-up," i.e., a Dr. Luke-produced radio edit of the album version, according to Thompson, and a video. The label is currently "reading treatments" for the proposed clip. (Perry penned the song with Dr. Luke (Lukasz Gottwald) and Max Martin).

Perry's "California Dreams Tour," which kicked off in February, continues with U.S., South American and European dates through Dec. 1. Of the 40 concerts reported to Billboard Boxscore, the tour has grossed $22 million and played to 408,000 fans.

http://www.billboard.com/charts/billboard-200#/news/katy-perry-s-sixth-teenage-dream-single-1005351222.story

Nice choice.
MH

Rolling Stone: 'I Wanna Go' Best Song of Summer

2011-09-09T12:30:00.001-05:00

10. Maroon 5 featuring Christina Aguilera, 'Moves Like Jagger'
NBC's The Voice seemed like another American Idol knock-off doomed to the same reality show dustbin where Chains of Love and Love Cruise now reside. Surprisingly enough, the show found a huge audience –and managed to reinvigorate the careers of judges Adam Levine and Christine Aguilera. They teamed up on this dance song that became a much-needed radio hit for both artists. It also joins the list of recent pop songs to reference Mick Jagger – including Ke$ha's "Tik Tok" and Kanye West's "Swagga Like Us."

9. Adele, 'Rolling In The Deep'
The biggest album of the year was supposed to be Lady Gaga's Born This Way. Then Adele came out of nowhere with her second album 21 and crushed everything in its path. The LP was propelled by the single "Rolling In The Deep," which has been inescapable all year. It's been on Gossip Girl, Glee and pretty much every other show on television. "I love seeing Lady Gaga's boobs and bum,"Adele told Rolling Stone in April. "I love seeing Katy Perry's boobs and bum. Love it. But that's not what my music is about. I don't make music for eyes. I make music for ears."

8. Good Charlotte, '1979'
No, Good Charlotte didn't release a cover of the Smashing Pumpkins' "1979" this summer. This is an original song that looks back nostalgically on a simpler time. "The Clash was on the radio," Joel Madden sings. "And Mom and Dad were still in love in 1979. It was a good good year." He also references "Heart of Glass," "Rock & Roll High School" and "Dream Police." Madden was born in March of 1979, so the dude must have a pretty good memory.

7. Lady Gaga, 'Edge of Glory'
Lady Gaga wrote this song about her grandfather dying, but after recruiting Clarence Clemons to play sax on the song it's become an unlikely tribute to the the Big Man. He played the track with her on the finale of American Idol and shot a video for it shortly before he died. "She's the real deal," Clemons told Rolling Stone in February. "All the craziness and stuff, there's a purpose to all of it. She has no boundaries . . . It's a day I'll never forget. I always wait for Bruce to call and say 'come do this' and it's real exciting for me. I never saw this happening, though."

6. Red Hot Chili Peppers, 'The Adventures of Raindance Maggie'
The Red Hot Chili Peppers had a lot to prove when they released the first single from I'm With You. It was the public's first look at new guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, who has the incredibly difficult task of replacing the mighty John Frusciante. The debut single "The Adventures of Raindance Maggie" charted all over the world, and hit Number One on the American Rock Songs chart – proving the band does have life after Frusciante. For the video, they took a page out of the Beatles and U2 playbook by playing on a rooftop. Unlike those previous two rooftop shoots, nobody tried to shut them down.

5. Panic! at the Disco, 'Ready to Go (Get Out of My Mind)'
Panic! at the Disco have had a rough past few years. Their 2008 LP Pretty. Odd was a drastic change from their emo roots, and they even dropped the exclamation mark from their name. Fans were pissed, and they just got angrier when half the band left the group in the summer of 2009. On their newest album they brought back the exclamation mark and their old sound. What remains of their fanbase is very pleased.

4. Coldplay, 'Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall'
Coldplay are one of the last rock bands that can reliably release a big hit single in advance of every new album. Hell, even U2 can't pull that off anymore. Coldplay say that their upcoming Mylo Xyloto is inspired by 1980s American graffiti, and the video for "Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall" certainly plays into that theme. It remains to be seen whether Coldplay can keep up this momentum with their next few singles from the LP.

3. Foo Fighters, 'Walk'
During Nirvana's heyday few people predicted that the drummer would pull a Phil Collins and become a superstar outside of the band, but that's exactly what he's done. The Foo Fighters just seem to get more and more popular. As big as they are here in America, they're even bigger in Europe. It's truly remarkable. Their new album Wasting Light was cut in Dave Grohl's garage with Nevermind producer Butch Vig. The single "Walk" was inspired by Dave Grohl's attempts to teach his daughter to walk.

2. Foster the People, 'Pumped Up Kicks'
"Pumped Up Kicks" sounds like a sugary pop song, but when you stop and listen to the lyrics it's clear the song is about a psychotic kid who pulls a gun on the popular kids at this school. It's sort of a "Jeremy" for a new generation. Recorded by the Los Angeles indie pop band Foster the People, "Pumped Up Kicks" is one of the surprise hits of 2011, rising to Number Three on the Billboard Hot 100.

1. Britney Spears, 'I Wanna Go'
This contest wasn't even close. Britney won by a landslide, which shouldn't come as any surprise. The woman works with the most successful pop songwriters in the industry. This track was co-written by Swedish songwriting legend Max Martin – the man behind everything from "Since U Been Gone" to "I Want It That Way" to Britney's first hit "...Baby One More Time." He's a 40-year-old Swedish guy, but he knows exactly what American teenage girls want to blast in their cars. The video for "I Wanna Go" starts with Britney giving a press conference, which is hysterical because she's one of the least media-accessible singers in the world. It's easier to get a sit-down with Bob Dylan than it is with Britney.

Adele To Record Theme For James Bond Movie?

2011-09-04T19:22:00.000-05:00

http://www.torontosun.com/2011/09/03/adele-to-sing-bond-theme
http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/5560950/Adele-stirred-by-new-project

Quote:
Soul superstar Adele has sent fans into a frenzy by hinting she is next in line to record a James Bond theme.

The London-born singer teased her big secret during an interview with U.K. TV host Jonathan Ross after he asked about her upcoming projects.

Adele mentioned the recording studio, before blurting out, "It is actually a theme, what I've got to do. Wow, that's really giving something away!"

She then covered her mouth, and Ross began humming the Bond theme tune. Adele added, "It's a concept. One song."

Adele will be in good company if she does end up on the spy soundtrack - Jack White and Alicia Keys, Madonna, Sir Paul McCartney and Dame Shirley Bassey have all released 007 themes.

The full interview with Ross is due to air on U.K. TV on Saturday.

Chord Overstreet Confirms Working On Album

2011-08-31T16:44:00.001-05:00

Beside continuing to explore his talent in acting, Chord Overstreet is also trying his hands at music. The actor who played Sam Evans in the second season of "Glee" said he's currently working on an album. "I've been encouraged and excited by the interest from record labels and publishers," he told TVLine.

Revealing when the decision to make his own music came to him, Chord recalled it happened after he was offered to return to the FOX TV series. "They offered me the chance to come back for a few episodes, but there was nothing guaranteed so I decided to dive into the music thing," the 22-year-old hunk reasoned.

The son of country music musician Paul Overstreet admitted that he was initially bummed after learning he was not picked up as a regular. He, however, said, "I had the best time working on the show and I had one of the best life experiences. It was a blast. But I decided to look at it as an opportunity to dive into my music."

"I've been writing music my entire life and I had an opportunity to work on a record. It's something I have a huge passion for. I did a lot of thinking and I felt like it was a good time to work on my album and focus on that avenue of my career," he went on before adding that he hopes to "get something out there for the fans to hear pretty soon."

Britney Confirms Next Single Is "Criminal"

2011-08-31T16:42:00.000-05:00

"I don't know if i'm at liberty to tell, but I will anyway! It's Criminal.
The song, when I first heard it, its just really different and there's nothing i've heard
like this before so I really wanted to deliver this song and I was thinking of a really cool concept
for the video just to make it interesting... you'll have to see!"

SOURCE

Brandy Talks Record Deal, Guest Starring on ‘Drop Dead Diva'

2011-08-31T16:36:00.000-05:00

Brandy is getting back in the game. Fresh off announcing a new deal with RCA/Chameleon Records, the R&B singer is making her return to acting. The “Moesha” actress will guest star on three episodes of Lifetime’s “Drop Dead Diva” (starting Sept. 4), playing Elisa Shayne, the ex-girlfriend of Parker (Josh Stamberg), who comes to him for legal help.

She spoke briefly about her new record deal during her appearance on “Good Day LA” today. “I’m working with people that believe in me,” shared Brandy, whose new album is due in early 2012. “It’s hard to work with people that think you’re done. … I love what I do and if I can touch just two people, then I’ve done my job.”

Don’t expect to see the star of VH1’s “A Family Business” doing more reality television in the future. “No more reality for me. I don’t think I’m interesting enough for reality. My reality is a little boring for what reality TV is today.”

Pitbull gets sued

2011-08-22T07:19:00.001-05:00

Pitbull had everyone partying to his No. 1 single “Give Me Everything,” except for Lindsay Lohan. The actress has filed a lawsuit against the Miami rapper, claiming that the song disparages her name.

TMZ reports that Lohan is upset over the lyrics on which Pitbull makes reference to her jail stint. “Hustlers move in silence, so I’m tiptoein’ to keep flowin’/ I got it locked up like Lindsay Lohan,” he raps on the Ne-Yo and Afrojack-penned smash, which appears on his latest album Planet Pit.

In her lawsuit, Lohan claims that “the lyrics, by virtue of its wide appeal, condemnation, excoriation, disparaging or defamatory statements by the defendants about the plaintiff are destined to do irreparable harm to the plaintiff.”

She states that she is “a professional actor of good repute and standing in the Screen Actors Guild, is suing under the New York civil rights laws, which protects people from having their name exploited for commercial purposes.”

The suit seeks to prevent broadcast of the song and asks for unspecified damages.

Sia writes for Leona Lewis.

2011-08-13T22:37:00.001-05:00

The Australian native has turned her musical talents towards helping others within the industry with recent writing credits belonging to Christina Aguilera & Neon Hitch. The co-writer, Greg Kurstin, has collaborated with the likes of Ke$ha, Kelly Clarkson, Sia, Britney Spears and Lily Allen, to name a few.

Leona's album is expected to drop in the summer.

Moves Like Jagger Video Premiere date Revealed!!!

2011-08-07T22:10:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for a whole lot of shirtless Adam Levine?

Well, sorry, we're going to make you wait until Monday when E! News exclusively premieres the music video of Maroon 5's "Moves Like Jagger" featuring Christina Aguilera.

Now, the band and Xtina performed the ode to Mick Jagger's swagger on the semi-finals of The Voice but Adam kept his shirt on the whole and didn't really try out any Jagger moves. Fortunately, the video directed by Jonas Åckerlund, took care of that both those problems!

Check out the entire video this Monday on E! News at 7 p.m. ET/PT and we'll also be bringing you the online debut of the clip the same day right here on E! Online at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

http://www.eonline.com/news/sneak_peek_adam_levine_goes_very/256338?cmpid=sn-000000-twitterfeed-365-topstories&utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=twitterfeed&utm_campaign=twitterfeed_topstories&dlvrit=48939

Simon Cowell: Mariah Carey Must Have X Factor Role

2011-08-07T22:08:00.000-05:00

Simon Cowell: 'We Have to Find a Role' for Mariah Carey on The X Factor

Whatever Mariah Carey wants, Mariah Carey gets.

The X Factor judge Simon Cowell, whose new talent competition debuts this fall, is willing to give into the demands of the pop diva, whom he says "wanted to be involved in the show from day one."

"You can't say no to Mariah," Cowell, 51, tells PEOPLE. "We have to find a role for her. I'm a huge fan of hers – not just as an artist, but as a person, and I love her to death."

But Cowell also says that having Carey on the show poses a slight problem.

"We just can't shut Paula [Abdul] and Nicole [Scherzinger] up," he joked. "Add Mariah into the mix as well and you won't even have anyone singing."

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20516274,00.html

Hilary Duff talks more about new album.

2011-08-05T20:05:00.000-05:00

"It's definitely going to be pop music. I'm a sucker for a catchy song and dance music — that's my sweet spot, so I'll definitely do that … I want to collaborate. I think I'm a big believer in collaboration. I haven't done it for four years, so I'm not sure where my competence level is, of just trying to write the whole thing. If there's an amazing song that I love that's done right now, I'd sing it, or I'd love to sit down and write with people. I think it'll be a mish-mash."

Beyonce's THrid Single Is...

2011-08-05T20:02:00.000-05:00

Finally, some label confirmation on Beyonce's next single (since Sony Music hasn't been to great with updating their street dates). Her next single to receive video treatment is "Countdown" as confirmed by Complex Magazine and director for the video Adria Petty, who also directed Beyonce's "Sweet Dreams" clip. Fans were thrown off when "Party" appeared in Sony Music Central's street release catalog for a late July release for Rhythmic and Urban radio, while "End of Time" dancer rehearsals were rumored to be taking place at the Millennium Dance Studio in North Hollywood, California. Now we've learned that Parkwood has decided to fund Beyonce's "Countdown" for radio release an a video shoot. There are no words on a single release or video details, but we will surely keep you updated.

Nicki Minaj's New Single Is...

2011-08-03T22:15:00.000-05:00

FLY (feat. Rihanna)!
Will go to radio on Sept. 11th in UK, Sept. 13th in US (rumored)
Source for UK date: Digital Spy

Christina records 'killer' duet w/ Eminem!

2011-08-03T22:14:00.000-05:00

http://www.misformusic.com/index.php/2011/08/christina-aguileras-comeback-album-to-feature-killer-duet-with-eminem/

Quote:
It has been reported that Christina Aguilera’s fifth studio album will feature a collaboration with rap superstar Eminem.

The pair, who famously fell out and then made up are thought to be working on the ‘killer’ song, with Christina excited at the prospect of releasing the track as a single.
An insider said: “Christina knows after her last album bombed that she would have to do something special for fans to be interested in her music again.
“It’s a killer track and is bound to be a massive worldwide hit if released as a single, which is exactly what Christina is hoping for. She can’t wait to release the record and prove all her critics wrong”.

It has also been reported that Christina is working with producer William Orbit on the record, which is expected to be released in 2012.

idk if this is true. but thats awesome if true.
MH

Rihanna's producer talks about new album!

2011-07-31T14:18:00.000-05:00

After finding success crafting the music for Rihanna's "Man Down," the production duo known as the Jugganauts — Sham "Sak Pase" Joseph and Verse Simmonds — are looking to recapture the magic on the Bajan beauty's upcoming sixth album.

"From what I understand, she is closing the album up now, and we did two records for her that she really, really loved and I'm really excited about them as well," Simmonds told Mixtape Daily. "They are records that we wrote and produced as the Jugganauts."

Simmonds is hoping that he and partner Sak Pase land another track on Rihanna's album. And while he couldn't confirm the Jugganauts' contributions will make the final cut, he said was "99.999 percent" certain for now. For those wondering whether the singer's new tunes will sound anything like the reggae-infused "Man Down," Simmonds says no.

"Nah, definitely not, because we always try to constantly — as producers, as artists — we try to always come with something different, a whole new sound," he said without elaborating on what that new record would sound like.

MTV

First week, Kelly Rowland expected to sell...

2011-07-28T22:32:00.000-05:00

70-75k
Thats pretty good for you.

50 Cent Cancels New Album, Threatens Label Of Leaking Dre's New Single

2011-07-27T21:16:00.000-05:00

Fif takes to Twitter to put Interscope in the dog house and seeks revenge by threatening to leak Dre's new single.

50 Cent has canceled his upcoming album, which was set for a November release. The G-Unit soldier took to Twitter last night to break the news after his new single "I'm on It," produced by The Cataracs, leaked to the Internet, causing him to seek retribution by threatening to release Dr. Dre's new single "Psycho" today at 2 p.m.

Fif has had a checkered history with Interscope Records, making his beef public with the imprint over the past few months. In June 2011, he tweeted, "I'm sorry to announce I will not be releasing a new album this year if we don't get on the same page. [...] I would rather not launch my album with out a plan the whole system is executing. I don't know why they play with me they know how I get."

He later revealed that the album would arrive in November. HipHopDX will keep you updated.

Lady Gaga's 4th single

2011-07-26T20:45:00.001-05:00

Yoü and I

Quote:
@jeff1317 Jeff
You and I is Lady Gaga's 4th single from #BornThisWay.
No more asking. Send all of your hate mail to accounts not starting with jeff1317

Nickelback Album Expected to Drop In The Fall

2011-07-25T17:51:00.001-05:00

http://www.billboard.com/#/news/11-anticipated-album-updates-madonna-dmx-1005289572.story

Quote:
NICKELBACK

Anticipation is high for Nickelback's next album. After all, the group was Billboard's Group of the Decade for the first 10 years of the millennium, and its last album, 2008's Dark Horse, debuted and peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, and moved 3.1 million, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Roadrunner Records confirms that the new album is due this fall, and a world tour promoted by Live Nation, with whom Nickelback has a long-term deal, is expected for 2012. It is known that most of the recording took place at frontman Chad Kroeger's Mountain View studio near Vancouver.

Christina Aguilera working with Fraser T. Smith

2011-07-25T17:49:00.000-05:00

@TalayRiley working with Fraser T Smith today on Christina Aguilera!! : D
http://twitter.com/#!/loualchamaa

Good night everyone! bust day 2moro!!! in the studio with the Fraiser T & Autumn Rowe writing for Christina Auguilera, and then straight to Westfield to hit up the stage with some of the UK finest. Wish me well TR #MakeYouMine
http://twitter.com/#!/TalayRiley

Another Source

Should be amazing.
MH

Cobra Starship - Night Shades (Tracklist)

2011-07-24T18:55:00.002-05:00

1. You Belong To Me
2. You Make Me Feel... (feat. Sabi)
3. #1Nite (feat. Ryan Tedder)
4. Fool Like Me" (feat. Plastiscines)
5. Anything For Love
6. Middle Finger
7. Don't Blame The World, It's The DJ's Fault
8. Fucked In Love
9. Disaster Boy
10. Schwick (feat. Jump Into The Gospel)

Only ten songs? Oh well You Make Me Feel is my new favorite song ever.
MH

Shakira Was Meant To Be On "Give Me Everything"

2011-07-24T18:53:00.001-05:00

Pitbull stopped by “On Air With Ryan Seacrest” on Monday to talk about his new album, touring with Enrique Iglesias, and why Shakira wasn’t on the smash single “Give Me Everything.”

Pitbull’s hit single “Give Me Everything,” featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack, and Nayer, reached #6 on the American Top 40 chart this past weekend.

Originally Pitbull asked Shakira to be a part of this collaboration, but she declined his offer.

“I hit up Shakira and said ‘Baby, I got a record I think is going to be a monster,’ she was going through some personal things,” Pitbull explains.

“She hits me back telling me ‘Anything you want, but not now.’ I said ‘No problem baby.’ So I send it off to Ne-Yo. Ne-Yo comes back and knocks it out of the park.”

Pitbull continues, “Then I hit her back once again and said ‘Look mama, I think this is really going to be a monster, I would love for you to be a part of it, if not cool.’ That is how it worked out. Because it gave my artist that is coming up now, which is Nayer, a great opportunity for her to come out and do what she’s doing. Everything happens for a reason.”

http://ryanseacrest.com/2011/06/27/pitbull-explains-why-shakira-did-not-sing-on-the-hit-single-give-me-everything-audio/

She should have jumped on that.
MH

Rihanna Confirms New Single From Loud

2011-07-24T18:48:00.000-05:00

@PerezHilton hey boo, ur fav song is the brand new #LOUD single "CHEERS" to u being an A&R #RihannaNavy

Good song choice.
MH

Dr. Luke in the studio with Ke$ha

2011-07-24T08:19:00.001-05:00

he just tweet that an unexpected song is about to drop soon!!!!

MTV Video Music Awards Nominees 2011

2011-07-22T21:49:00.001-05:00

Video Of The Year:
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Beastie Boys - Make Some Noise
Bruno Mars - Grenade
Katy Perry - Firework
Tyler, The Creator - Yonkers

Best Pop Video:
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Britney Spears - Till The World Ends
Bruno Mars - Grenade
Katy Perry - Last Friday Night
Pitbull f/ Ne-Yo, Nayer, and Afrojack - Give Me Everything

Best Female Video:
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Beyonce - Run The World (Girls)
Katy Perry - Firework
Lady Gaga - Born This Way
Nicki Minaj - Super Bass

Best Rock Video:
Cage The Elephant - Shake Me Down
Foo Fighters - Walk
Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks
Mumford & Sons - The Cave
The Black Keys - Howlin' For You

Best Hip-Hop Artist:
Chris Brown - Look At Me Now
Kanye West f/ Rihanna and Kid Cudi - All Of The Lights
Lil Wayne - 6 Foot 7 Foot
Lupe Fiasco - The Show Goes on
Nicki Minaj - Super Bass

Best New Artist:
Big Sean
Foster The People
Kreayshawn
Tyler, The Creator
Wiz Khalifa

Best Male Video:
Bruno Mars - Grenade
Cee-Lo - Fuck You
Eminem - Love The Way You Lie
Justin Bieber - You Smile
Kanye West - All Of The Lights

Best Collaboration:
Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes - Look At Me Now
Kanye West f/ Rihanna and Kid Cudi - All Of The Lights
Katy Perry f/ Kanye West - E.T
Nicki Minaj f/ Drake - Moment 4 Life
Pitbull f/ Ne-Yo, Nayer, and Afrojack - Give Me Everything

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best Art Direction:
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Death Cab For Cutie - You Are A Tourist
Kanye West f/ Dwele - Power
Katy Perry f/ Kanye West - E.T
Lady Gaga - Judas

Best Choreography:
Beyoncé - Run The World (Girls)
Britney Spears - Till The World Ends
Bruno Mars - The Lazy Song
Lady Gaga- Judas
LMFAO f/ Lauren Bennett & Goon - Party Rock Anthem

Best Cinematography:
Thirty Seconds To Mars - Hurricane
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Beyoncé - Run The World (Girls)
Eminem f/ Rihanna - Love The Way You Lie
Katy Perry - Teenage Dream

Best Direction:
Thirty Seconds To Mars - Hurricane
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Beastie Boys - Make Some Noise
Eminem f/ Rihanna - Love The Way You Lie
Katy Perry f/ Kanye West - E.T

Best Editing:
Thirty Seconds To Mars - Hurricane
Adele - Rolling In The Deep
Katy Perry f/ Kanye West - E.T
Manchester Orchestra - Simple Math
Kanye West f/ Rihanna and Kid Cudi - All Of The Lights

Best Special Effects:
Chromeo - Dont Turn The Lights On
Katy Perry f/ Kanye West - E.T
Kanye West f/ Dwele - Power
Manchester Orchestra - Simple Math
Linkin Park - Waiting For The End

Britney only got 2. And a lot of other viseos should be nominated as well.
Music Heaven

Shontelle reveals details about new album, single, label, etc

2011-07-22T21:46:00.000-05:00

Decked out in a seriously fierce mirror ball-bejeweled soldier’s hat and a fresh-to-death poofy pink jacket, the Barbadian chanteuse cheerfully tackled our overly eager (and perhaps ever-so-slightly alcohol induced) series of rapid-fire questions, resulting in a deluge of some rather juicy Excluusives along the way.

Once the boys and I stopped buzzing about Shontelle’s general ferociousness and probing for details about her wardrobe (we here at MuuMuse always have our priorities in order), we got down to business: The set-list for the night. As we got on the subject of “Say Hello To Goodbye,” we asked: Would this be the last song from the No Gravity era?

“I think that will probably be the last one from that album,” she said of her latest single. She also confirmed the rumor that a re-release was in the works for No Gravity–that is, until Motown Records folded. “Now I’m on Republic. It’s a brand new label, brand new situation, which is probably going to mean a brand new album.”

“Actually,” she continued with a smile, “we just decided which single is going to be next.” And–after all three of us began incessantly demanding the title of the song, she finally caved in: “My new single–look out for it, it’s called ‘Reflection.’ It’s coming out soon. You guys are the first people to hear that!”

And how will it sound? “It’s not a ballad. I’m not going to be emo on this one–for once!” she joked. “It’s like the happy song–it’s going to be everybody’s happy song, I’m telling you.”

Aside from the new single, Shontelle also revealed that she’s been spending plenty of time in the studio cooking up brand new tracks. “I’ve been working with a lot of good people, like Tony Kanal from No Doubt, The Runners…Rockwilder (“Lady Marmalade,” “Dirrty”), and a bunch of other people,” she explained, noting: “Yeah, this is all fresh. You guys are getting a lot of juice!”

So there you have it, Muusers: A new (non-ballad) single called “Reflection” due out shortly, along with an upcoming studio album with a producer’s list that includes Tony Kanal, The Runners and Rockwilder. Not too shabby for a backstage interview, eh?

After the boys and I said hello to our goodbyes and shuffled out, the songstress took to the stage just minutes later to perform several tracks to an energized audience, including “Perfect Nightmare,” “T-Shirt,” “Say Hello to Goodbye,” an acoustic moment of “Battle Cry,” “Impossible,” and even a good chunk of Rihanna‘s “Man Down,” the song she co-wrote for her Bajan buddy’s last studio album, LOUD.

Kelly Clarkson and Jason Aldean Breaks Record!

2011-07-22T21:43:00.001-05:00

After the return to Billboard's Hot 100 this week , Don't You Wanna Stay broke a record. The song is the best selling country collaboration in the history of digital sales.

There was a total of 1,476,000 copies sold digitally. The mix of Country with pop worked!

To bad the song works my nerve after hearing a thousand times.
MH

Beyonce's producer trashes Kelly Rowland

2011-07-19T19:38:00.000-05:00

It’s a good thing Jeff Bhasker isn’t destiny, because if he was, it’d be clear that he had chosen a favorite child. The “Party” producer (who worked on a number of other 4 tracks, too) took to Twitter to trash Kelly Rowland’s slinky single “Motivation”: “How can this kr song with the weakest beat and melody of all time be the #1 song on urban!? Oh yeah. Wayne.” (Guess he’s not a Weezy fan either.) But why such harsh words for “Motivation”? Find out more below.

There are a lot of songs out there that probably deserve his criticism even more, so what’s his beef with “Motivation”? Maybe he’s just trying to Bey a leg up, since so many of us are keeping an eye on how the two ladies’ singles and albums are measuring up against each other.

Bhasker followed up with this tweet: “I just listened to Motivation again to see if I was to harsh in my critique. I wasn’t. The lyrics are horrid as well.” (C’mon, Jeff, tell us how you really feel.)

And, finally, calling out the controversy: “Come on twitter you know you live for the negative tweets.

How rude.
MH

BEP Taking a Break.

2011-07-18T21:27:00.000-05:00

The quartet is taking a break, but assure fans that it doesn't imply a break-up.

Black Eyed Peas has announced that they will be taking an indefinite hiatus from music. Fergie, will.i.am, Taboo and apl.de.ap broke the news during a recent concert in Staffordshire, England earlier this week, explaining that it isn't the end of the group but that they'll be calling it quits for the time being.

"We want you to know that we love you and thank you for the support you've given from the beginning," will.i.am told hte crowd. "This isn't going to be the last time you'll see us," added Fergie.

Will.i.am later clarified that the group will take a break just as it's done in the past.

Music Heaven

Forgot to Mention

2011-07-18T21:26:00.002-05:00

I was on a breif vacation. Thats why I have not been posting.

Fraser T. Smith wants to work with Xtina & Rihanna

2011-07-12T19:47:00.000-05:00

Fraser T Smith reveals plans for new production collective

Sony/ATV composer Fraser T Smith has laid out plans for a new production collective after joining forces with Changed The Way You Kiss Me producer Michael Woods and publishing stablemates Chris Loco and Igloo.

Smith said the group planned to work differently from already established songwriting and production cooperatives such as the Smeezingtons (Bruno Mars, Philip Lawrence and Ari Levine) or StarGate (Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel Eriksen).

Rather than spending time in the studio together as a quartet, Smith said he planned to pitch ideas for projects to his partners based on their specific strengths.

“The idea is to get different producers’ input on releases where it feels right – rather than getting a bunch of us in the studio together,” explained Smith.

“As a producer, it’s all about moving things forward and bringing the newest sounds to the table, and when you’re talking to a 20-year-old producer it’s clear that they will have a different take on a track.”

Already this has seen Smith work with the trio on songs, which Smith said his role in the new outfit would be to act like a sweeper on the football pitch – cleaning up tracks and making them complete.

“I have the ability to work equally well on lyrics, beats or mixing and it will be nice to be able to take a step back and collaborate with someone on a production level and then work with them to bring the final track over to the finishing line.”

His plans came as the British songsmith enjoyed a brief spell at the top of the US iTunes chart earlier this month, with Inventing Shadows – a track co-penned with US songwriter Josh Kear for American television show The Voice.

He added he was keen to continue with the collaborations and work with his collective over the coming months as he looked to build on his US success following productions on Adele and Britney’s current albums.

Smith said he was aiming to get tracks on the next Christina Aguilera and Rihanna albums.

“And it would be great to get some things in America off the back of what’s happening out there at the moment,” he said.

“The beauty of my current success there is that I’m not really getting asked to necessarily repeat one particular thing – the success of Adele has meant that we are working with a lot more singer-songwriters but on the flip side I have done a lot with Britney and Tinchy [Stryder] which featured a lot of cutting-edge beats. My options are still wide open.”

http://www.musicweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=1045897&c=1

Jason DeRulo to take break from music after album.

2011-07-09T18:54:00.000-05:00

Jason Derulo has exclusively told MTV.co.uk that after his sophomore LP, Future History drops later this year, he is planning on taking a break from music.

The singer-songwriter, who is currently No.1 in the Official UK Singles Chart with Don't Wanna Go Home, confessed to that he turned down the role of Jimi Hendrix in a forthcoming biopic as he wants to dedicate more of his time to films in the near future.

Speaking of his decision to reject the opportunity to play Hendrix, Derulo explained: "Future History is my main focus right now, it’s the greatest accomplishment of my life so far."

"I really wanted to make sure it gets the exposure it deserves. It has to be heard by everybody. After this album, I will dive full-throttle into movies for a while. I will ultimately take a break from music."

Jason added: "I just really want to continue on the same intensity of work ethic, I don’t want to slow now. I'm 21-year's old and I feel like this era and a few years to come are my prime years, so I want to utilise them."

MTV

Michelle Williams releases new buzz single

2011-07-09T10:21:00.001-05:00

Fresh off the theatrical stage, Michelle Williams has been working hard in the studio on her new project, still untitled at the moment. Michelle is following up her #1 Dance album, Unexpected with the buzz single “Love Gun,” produced by Druski.

When asked about the sound of her new album, Michelle says:

“My album will be ‘inspirational pop.’ Think of Katy Perry’s ‘Fireworks’ or Natasha Beddingfeld’s ‘Unwritten.’ I want to give people a message of hope while at the same time get them moving with dance inspired tracks.”

Michelle is currently working with Jim Jonsin and Rico Love, with whom she worked with on Unexpected. Michelle’s album is slated to drop this winter with an official single release in August/September.

Source: CL MUSIC EXCLUSIVE: MICHELLE WILLIAMS – “LOVE GUN”

So excited!
Music Heaven

MTV's Best Songs of 2011 (So Far)

2011-07-06T21:14:00.001-05:00

1. Adele, "Rolling in the Deep"
2. Lady Gaga, "Heavy Metal Lover":
3.Britney Spears, "Till the World Ends":
4. Katy Perry (featuring Kanye West), "ET":
5. Nicola Roberts, "Beat of My Drum"
6. Kreayshawn, "Gucci Gucci":
7. Foster the People, "Pumped Up Kicks"
8. Lykke Li, "Get Some"
9. Bright Eyes, "Ladder Song"
10. Beyoncé, "Run the World (Girls)"

The rest are here : http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1666833/britney-spears-adele-best-songs-of-2011.jhtml?xrs=share_twitter

I can't deal with some of these.
Music Heaven

Madonna refuses to work with RedOne

2011-07-06T21:08:00.000-05:00

Madonna has allegedly refused to work with Lady GaGa producer RedOne on tracks for her new album.

The 52-year-old pop icon started work on her 12th studio album on Monday, which was confirmed by her long-time manager Guy Oseary on Twitter.

However, Madonna has reportedly ruled out collaborating with producer RedOne after her record company suggested that she do so.

According to her fan site Queen Madonna, the performer refused to work with established producers, opting for up-and-coming music-makers instead.

"She's the writer of almost all of the new lyrics. Producer Joe Henry is involved in two songs so far. Most of the other producers are not so famous. Her record company wanted her to work with renowned producers such as RedOne, which she refused to do."

The site's studio insider also suggested that one track has already been recorded, as well as listing a number of musical influences.

"One of the demo tracks that have already been recorded in the last few days starts off with some piano and violins then turning into a dance track," they said. "Its title may be 'Way Back Home', which is a demo tape from Diagram Of The Heart.

http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a328487/madonna-refuses-to-work-with-lady-gaga-producer-redone.html

idk how relieable digital spy is though.
Music Heaven

Ke$ha: ‘I have 200 songs for my second album’

2011-07-05T20:13:00.000-05:00

Ke$ha has revealed that she has written over 200 songs for the follow-up to her 2010 debut album ‘Animal’.

The ‘Tik Tok’ has also explained that her second album will see her traveling more in a rock direction, influenced by the likes of Led Zeppelin, Iggy Pop and AC/DC.

“I have so many songs! Songs will leak and I don't even remember writing them. I've written about 200,” she told Digital Spy. "I'm writing constantly about all my crazy experiences across the world, so I have a lot of music I've already written. I haven't turned that material into a record yet, but it's definitely coming along."

When asked about the sound of the album, Ke$ha said the record would be “experimental”.

“I definitely want the next record to be experimental and I would love to play with all the different sounds of the music I listen to. I really want some dirty guitar and I wouldn't mind if there were elements of blues.”

"I've been playing a lot of guitar and so it's quite exciting to think about threading that into the new material and just making it better and better. I've been listening to a lot of Led Zeppelin, AC/DC and probably the one CD I haven't taken out of my record player in a long time is Iggy Pop's 'The Idiot'."

Ke$ha will play this weekend's T In The Park festival before embarking on her own mini tour of the UK.

Should be exciting.
Music Heaven

I Wanna Go Review

2011-07-05T20:11:00.001-05:00

This is not the best or most adventurous song from Britney Spears'album Femme Fatale, but where a breezy, summer pop tune is needed, it nicely fits the bill. Lyrically "I Wanna Go" represents Britney Spears wanting, like any human being, to let her hair down without being judged. The Chris Marrs Piliero directed music video is a brilliant complement to the sentiment of the song. Keeping with the overall quality of the Femme Fatale project, "I Wanna Go" is one of the outstanding single releases of the summer.

Pros
•Summery dance pop goodness
•Britney's statement of her humanity
•Irresistible melodies

Cons
•Lacks a clear knockout punch

Description
•Written by Max Martin, Savan Kotecha, and Shellback
•Produced by Max Martin and Shellback
•Released June 2011 by Jive

Guide Review - Britney Spears - "I Wanna Go"
Pulsing synths, stutter mixed vocals, a whistle melody, and irresistible sing along chorus. It sounds like Britney Spears and Max Martin are continuing their working relationship of creating pure pop pleasure. "I Wanna Go" will not stand out as one of the top Britney Spears singles, but neither would you want to leave it out of an extended set of her work. In the lyrics, she firmly states that she is a human being with a need to embrace her wilder side on occasion. Musically, she wants to make us dance and sing along.

Don't miss the music video that accompanies "I Wanna Go." It brims with tongue in cheek humor beginning with a somewhat testy press conference handled with spot on sarcasm and then it moves into Britney Spears' battle with the ever present paparazzi. Among the clever pop culture references is a surprise straight out of Michael Jackson's classic "Thriller" video.

The Femme Fatale project is Britney Spears firing on all cylinders artistically. She also sounds the most relaxed she has been in her career. "I Wanna Go" is catchy and fun with a somewhat serious message. However, it avoids any sense of bogging down in lecture mode. Put "I Wanna Go" on your summer fun playlist. That is what Britney Spears is looking for here - fun.

4 out 5

Courtsey of about.com Top 40
Music Heaven

Ke$ha talks about possible Cannibal Single & Music Video

2011-07-04T20:44:00.001-05:00

Are you planning to release any more singles from Cannibal?
"I would love to release 'The Harold Song', but I actually don't know what the next single is going to be. It's all being discussed at the moment. I wish I could tell you, but I don't actually know yet."

Quote:
Have you thought about what a music video for 'The Harold Song' would be like?
"I have actually. I've written the video treatment, but I can't tell you! It's very dramatic. I'll keep you guys posted. I think I'm going to make a video for it either way, because I have a really beautiful video idea. Whether it's a single or not, you can definitely be looking out for a video."

Quote:
You wrote Britney Spears's last single 'Till The World Ends'; did you get to meet her?
"I didn't get to see her record the track, but I have met her and she's super sweet. She's the queen of pop music, so it was quite a compliment that she wanted to record it. For her to then put it out as a single is f**king amazing. That song was written specifically for Britney - I put my brain in Britney Spears land and wrote that whole song for her."

Source: http://m.digitalspy.com/music/interviews/a326631/keha-interview-i-want-to-be-fking-perfect.html[/u]

Nayer To Release 1st Single Ft Pitbull & Prod By RedOne

2011-07-03T18:46:00.001-05:00

Nayer_Music

My single will be out this summer ft @PlanetPit and prod by @RedOne_Official #smash 6 minutes ago via Twitter for iPhone

Should be amazing. BTW its the girl from Pitbull's Give Me Everthing song.
Music Heaven

JLo Annouces 3rd Single from Love?!

2011-07-02T22:55:00.001-05:00

Jennifer Lopez appeared on HSN at midnight yesterday to launch and sell her new fragrance, Love & Light! While there, Jennifer shared stories and some new information!

The most newsworthy is that “Papi” has been selected as the 3rd single off of her album, LOVE?. “Papi” is one of our favorites, so we are very excited that it will be the next single! “Papi” was produced by RedOne, who also produced Jennifer’s first single and worldwide smash, “On The Floor”. “Papi” was also featured in the “I’m Into You” video.

Jennifer also revealed that she will be featured in the September issue of Vanity Fair, so look out for that!

You can watch her segment and buy Love & Light exclusively on HSN here. Over 17,500 bottles have been sold so far! Jennifer will also be appearing LIVE on HSN today at 12:00 PM and 9:00 PM Eastern! You don’t want to miss it!

Great single choice and she will be releasing her 4th single at the time. But the 4th single has not been chosen at the moment.
Music Heaven

Dev - The Night the Sun Came Up (Tracklist)

2011-07-01T11:27:00.000-05:00

1. Getaway
2. Heatstroke
3. Kiss My Lips
4. Me
5. Lightspeed
6. Shadows
7. Perfect Match
8. In My Trunk
9. Take Her From You
10. Dancing Shoes
11. Bass Down Low
12. In The Dark
13. Stay Awake
14. Killer

Release Date: September 20, 2011

Can't wait for this.
Music Heaven

Beyonce ties Britney's Billboard 200 Record

2011-07-01T11:25:00.000-05:00

When In The Zone debuted at Number One on the Billboard 200 album chart, Spears became the first female in Soundscan history to have her first four studio albums debut at Number One in a row. Today, ladies and gentlemen, Beyonce Knowles makes history, with HDD confirming '4' will in fact debut at #1. Beyonce becomes the second female in Soundscan history to have her four studio albums debut at Number One in a row. She is also the first African American female artist to have that record.

ATRL HDD

To bad the album is hoffically bad. And Alicia Keys tied her first.
Music Heaven

Columbia Records speak out on Beyonce's 4

2011-06-30T12:44:00.001-05:00

After reports of dissatisfaction, panic and other pre-release drama, executives at Columbia Records are feeling vindicated by the positive early returns for Beyonce's new album, "4."

"All the speculation that gets around is frustrating when it's just not true," Columbia/Epic Label Group Chairman Rob Stringer tells Billboard.biz. "The story about us being unhappy with the record and stuff is just not true. There's never been any doubt or conversations about moving the record or changing it... Those conversations never existed. We're really, really happy with it."

The label is particularly pleased with sales reports from "4's" initial days of official availability. Stringer says early indications are that the album will debut at No. 1 in as many as 14 countries, including the U.S., and in the Top 3 worldwide. It went triple-platinum in Brazil on its first day of sale, while U.K. projections have it selling "well over" 90,000 copies in its first week -- which more than doubles "I Am...Sasha Fierce's" roll-out in 2008 -- and 1.6 million over its lifespan. The album's second single, "Best Thing I Never Had," is No. 1 on the U.K. iTunes charts and currently sits at No. 58 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 29 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts.

"The numbers are very good everywhere," Stringer notes. "We thought the record is great from the beginning, and some of the stuff that is happening now is vindication of it."

Columbia did scramble when "4's" first single, "Run the World (Girls)," leaked and was released ahead of schedule, peaking at No. 29 on the Hot 100. The album, meanwhile, leaked in full on June 7, three weeks ahead of its June 28 release date, leading to reports that "4" would be delayed and possible altered -- particularly after a tepid response from the blogosphere and a feeling that, with more than 70 songs worked on for the album, there would be ample material to create something markedly different than what was being distributed online.

"We didn't want the leaks to happen," Stringer says. "But there was never any discussion of this album moving. It has always been that date (June 28 ). It's been that date for four months now. There was never a conversation about pushing it back, bringing it forward, changing the songs -- none of it."

Stringer says the company is looking at an 18-month campaign for "4," which will include "extensive touring" by Beyonce. Just back from a successful overseas run that included three concerts in France and a closing-night gig at the U.K.'s Glastonbury Festival, she'll roll out a documentary, "Beyonce: Year of 4," on Thursday on MTV and BET, then perform Friday on ABC's GMA Summer Concert Series. She'll head back to the U.K. for a July 9 show at Scotland's T in the Park and a stop the next day at the Oxegen Festival in Ireland.

"The main concentration for the next few months is to get this record working everywhere," Stringer says. "She's well versed in being a global artists. The touring plan is extensive. The promo plan is extensive. We also know we're going to put out a lot of singles and...shoot a lot of videos from the record. There's enough positive information that we think we can work the record for another 18 months, and hopefully over that period we'll all be proved right that this is an important record and a commercially successful record."

Beyonce & Selena Gomez predicted first week album sales

2011-06-29T22:46:00.000-05:00

Fresh off her triumph on closing night at Glastonbury, Columbia diva Beyonce’s 4 will debut at #1 next week on the HITS album chart with between 275-300k in first-week sales. Her previous album, ‘08’s multiple Grammy winning I Am… Sasha Fierce, debuted with 463k, but that was during the Q4 sales rush in November. Those figures are based on one-day sales from those music retailers around the country not augmenting their income by selling illegal fireworks out of the back door.

SoCal rapper Big Sean’s Finally Famous: The Album, his feature-length debut after a series of critically acclaimed “Finally Famous” mixtapes, is the first release under Kanye West’s new deal for his G.O .O.D. Music label, through Island Def Jam Music Group, and should do in the 90-95 range.

Hollywood’s Selena Gomez & the Scene return with a third album, When the Sun Goes Down, which will debut with an estimated 75-80k in sales.

Seventh season American Idol winner David Cook’s second 19/RCA/RMG album is looking at estimated sales in the 35-40k range, a far cry from the 280k debut for his first album.

Ryan Tedder Plans New OneRepublic Material for Early 2012

2011-06-28T22:12:00.000-05:00

After he finishes up a loaded songwriting slate that includes work with B.o.B, Carrie Underwood and Cobra Starship, Ryan Tedder plans on focusing solely on his band OneRepublic's follow-up to 2009 sophomore album "Waking Up."

"We have probably eight or nine ideas, but we start the writing process for OneRepublic in about two weeks, and that's when I really dive in and start doing it and go until it's done," Tedder tells Billboard.com. "Our goal is to have the first single on the next album out by the beginning of 2012, or sometime in the early portion of 2012."

Tedder has seen a few recent collaborations become pop singles, including "Not Over You," the lead single from Gavin DeGraw's forthcoming album, and Colbie Caillat's latest hit, "Brighter Than the Sun." Meanwhile, Tedder was approached during the Billboard Music Awards to help flesh out a new Beyonce song, "I Was Here," barely a month before her new album "4" came out.

"There was one song came in at the last minute that was a Diane Warren-written song," says Tedder. "It was just a vocal, just Diane singing basically, and didn't have any real music behind it. We did the entire thing on two airplanes, from Vegas to Boston and then returning from Boston to Vegas two days later. It was absolutely bizarre, but the song sounds great."

Tedder says that he's wrapping up work on Cobra Starship's next album, and that he worked on five songs for K'naan's sophomore effort, which will feature producers like Will.i.am, Benny Blanco and RedOne. He also collaborated on three new songs with Carrie Underwood, whom he calls "one of the top three vocalists I've ever worked with."

However, Tedder seems most excited about his contributions to B.o.B's new album: the rapper worked with producers like Stargate and Benny Blanco on the follow-up to 2010 debut "The Adventures of Bobby Ray," and Tedder says that "there are some monsters" on the forthcoming disc.

"The last song I did with Bob sounds like nothing he's ever done," says Tedder. "It's almost like if Bob got in the room with Fleet Foxes and Mumford & Sons, or something like that. It's a total trip, and musically divergent from anything I've ever done."

So excited.
Music Heaven

Cee-lo Green drops out of Loud Tour

2011-06-26T15:00:00.001-05:00

The singer has dropped out of Rihanna's Loud tour partly due to his commitment on NBC's The Voice, as well as preparation for a new album and a book.

His rep says:
"He always puts 100 percent into his work and with the requirements and time commitment to The Voice, on top of heading back into the recording studio and an upcoming book. He feels that he wouldn't give his fans the show that they deserve."

http://perezhilton.com/2011-06-26-cee-lo-green-drops-out-of-rihanna-loud-tour

David Guetta Wants to work with Gaga

2011-06-24T21:01:00.000-05:00

David Guetta may not be a household name, but over the last two years his music has dominated many household stereos, and clubs, and coffee shops and pretty much any place music could be heard. If you're wondering how the Black Eyed Peas went from ripping off pop songs to writing the perfect pop song in 'I've Got A Feeling,' he's the man to blame. Dig Nicki Minaj's fresh house-flavored beats? That's Guetta, house music superstar.

"I don't come from pop music but I'm trying to create new pop music that I like, that fits my world," The DJ/Producer tells AOL Music. "I made lots of [dance] hits before with people who are not famous so I'm not obsessed by super famous people."

That being said, Guetta, who is set to release his star-studded fifth album, 'Nothing but the Beat' in August, has his eye on arguably the most famous musical person on the planet right now.

"Of course I'd want to work with [Lady] Gaga," he enthuses in his light french accent. "She's amazing."

If the Mother Monster would agree, she would stand in pretty good company. Along with will.i.am, 'Nothing but the Beat' will also feature the vocal talents of Snoop Dogg, Akon, Jennifer Hudson, Sia, Timbaland, Dev and Guetta's favorite vocalist, Usher.

http://blog.music.aol.com/2011/06/24/david-guetta-nothing-but-the-beat/

Ke$ha Talks Gaga and rapping

2011-06-24T20:59:00.001-05:00

In a recent interview, Ke$ha was asked about Lady Gaga. Here's the question below.

Quote:
Rolling Stone magazine said the EP proves you “would kick Lady Gaga’s ass in a freestyle battle.” Do you think that's true and how do you feel about being compared to other female artists?

Y’know, I get it all the time. I get compared to everyone and their brother. I’m really not trying to be anyone else. I’m rapping when I wanna rap, I’m singing when I wanna sing, I’m screaming when I wanna scream. Compare me to whoever you want and comparing me to a successful, strong woman like Lady Gaga is a huge compliment but I do think I’m very different to anybody out right now. Everyone has their talent but I think what I bring is very different.

http://www.4music.com/news/interviews/644/Keha-talks-Glasto-Britney-and-her-next-album

Chris Mars "I Wanna Go" Director Talks Britney

2011-06-23T09:56:00.000-05:00

The director of “I Wanna Go,” Chris Marrs Piliero, opened up to the New York Post about Britney’s new music video. Check it out:
Quote:
PoNYPrap: How did you team up with Britney?
Chris Marrs Piliero: She hit me up and asked me to put together a concept for the song. Simple as that. Having been a fan for a while, I was stoked to get the call since I’ve always thought she was one of the cooler pop artists.

NYP: Where did the idea for this video come from?
Chris: The song is really fun, really upbeat with lots of sexual undertones — but the key lyric for me was “be a little inappropriate.” That stood out but I didn’t want to make a video that was all about sexual inappropriateness – that wasn’t the vibe that either of us wanted. We were on the same page about exploring fun ways for her to be inappropriate. She’s Britney Spears – how would you react if you asked for an autograph and she grabbed your ass?!?

NYP: Were you worried that this might feel like “ugh, another paparazzi blasting video?
Chris: No. I’ve seen all of her videos and really wanted to pull what I loved about Britney from those, but give it something fresh. One thing that stood out to me was all her references to the paparazzi were always more of a statement than an action. She’d never embraced the opportunity to lash out, fight back. I thought this was the perfect chance to be tongue in cheek but also get her to say “f*** off!”

NYP: Literally! Was there any pushback from her or her camp about the F-bombs?
Chris: I wrote the beginning not knowing if she’d be down to do it, but I was stoked at how game she was. Being a fan, I’ve seen her on “How I Met Your Mother” and “Saturday Night Live” – I feel like no video has really taken advantage of her comedic timing. Even when her videos have a narrative, they never embraced that aspect of her. She never had a music video where she could show her acting chops and have fun with comedy while being super badass. That was my goal from day one: I wanted her to be funny, badass and super cool.

NYP: There have been lots of rumors about how Britney is just being propped up by her team and pointed at the stage. As someone who has worked with her, how much truth is there to that?
Chris: Let me tell you, all of that is bulls***. Every artist has management, that’s their job. It’s what they’re paid for. I work with the artist. Your question goes along perfectly with the whole concept of the video and that press conference – it’s a ridiculous, exaggerated rumor about her life and career. I met with her, talked with her, went over the concept with her. It was extremely collaborative. She suggested alternatives and tweaked other things. As much as the management is there, this was a concept that Britney really dug. She was a big part of the decision-making process.

NYP: Lastly, the video features a marquee for “Crossroads 2: Cross Harder.” I love that, where did it come from?
Chris: I needed a movie title for the marquee and thought that would be perfect. It’s a fun Easter egg for fans. Plus, “Die Hard 2: Die Harder” is the most ridiculously awesome way to title a sequel. It just felt like the right thing to do. When Britney saw it, she loved it.

LOVE the video.
Music Heaven

Lil Wayne Plans To Retire

2011-06-23T09:54:00.000-05:00

Weezy explains that he'd rather focus on raising his kids than putting out new music.

Lil Wayne has kept fans waiting on his upcoming album Tha Carter IV, but it might be the last time they get a new offering from Weezy. The Young Money chief covered XXL Magazine’s latest issue, revealing that TC4 could be the end of the line for the platinum rapper.

“I’m bowing out still on top,” he says. “I’ma make y’all want me when I retire. I’ma make y’all be like, ‘Nooo!’ I ain’t leaving out this bitch when y’all be like, ‘Yeah, it’s about time, dawg.’ Carter IV might be my last one. I’ma make y’all be like, ‘Fuck!’ Yeah, nigga, I’m gone.”

The 28-year-old elaborated by explaining that his children would be the cause for him quitting the music business.

“Honestly, this is the real truth,” he says. “I honestly think it’s unfair to my kids. I’m super dedicated into what I do. Like, it’s no questions—it’s hands down, I do this. I live this. I don’t have a day out my week that I do something else. I do this every day of my life, and I’m not about to stop, ’cause that’s the only way you can succeed in this business, is to do it the way I do it. I want to succeed the way I want to succeed. You can succeed. You can put out a hit… But to do it the way I want to do it, to be comfortable to do what the fuck I want to do, you’ve got to work like no other. Like I said, it’s unfair to my kids. So about 30, 31, 32, I gotta get ready.”

Cee-Lo Confirms New Gnarls Barkley Album

2011-06-21T16:54:00.000-05:00

Gnarls Barkley fans can prepare for a new album from the group. Cee-Lo Green confirmed this in an interview with US Magazine.

“There is a new Gnarls Barkley album coming out!” Cee-Lo tells Us’ Charles Thorp. “There is a whole bunch of stuff with the collaborations. Hopefully people will like what I am doing, that is always a plus.”

This new album will serve as Cee-Lo and Danger Mouse's follow-up to the 2008 Grammy-winning album, The Odd Couple.

As for what fans can expect to hear from the “Crazy” duo, Cee-Lo reveals, “I would hope it would break more grounds. Knowing the nature of the space that we shared I am pretty sure it will be somewhat similar.”

Until then, fans can catch Cee-Lo on NBC's singing competition “The Voice,” his own talk show Talking with Strangers, his forthcoming documentary entitled Distilled, and of course, live on the ‘LOUD’ tour with Rihanna and J. Cole.

And most recently, Cee-Lo made headlines with his anti-gay Twitter comments, which he later deleted and apologized for. Guess we won't be forgetting you anytime soon, Cee-Lo.

http://prod.vibe.com/posts/cee-lo-green-confirms-new-gnarls-barkley-album-collabo-heavy

Swwet. Can't wait to hear it
Music Heaven

Naya Rivera of 'Glee' talks about upcoming solo album, songwriting

2011-06-20T17:08:00.001-05:00

Naya Rivera, who plays the fiery Santana on Fox's musical comedy series "Glee," is getting to work on her upcoming solo album.

The actress and the rest of the cast of "Glee" began a summer concert tour of the United States, the United Kingdom and Ireland in May. Rivera signed a record deal with Columbia Records earlier in the month and plans to focus on her solo album during the month of July.

"I won't have anything I'm working on until after the tour is over," Rivera told Entertainment Weekly. "So July 4th, when I get back home in L.A., is when I'll hunker down and spend that whole month hammering out the details and the creative process of that. I'm really excited about that."

The 24-year-old actress told the magazine that she would love to enlist some of her "Glee" cast mates to collaborate with her on the album but is still trying to figure out what direction she will go with the style.

"I know what I sound good on, and I know what I like to write," Rivera said. "I've been writing for years, so I have a catalog of songs that I've written over the years, and it's just a matter of getting with the right producers and other writers to develop the sound that is me."

Rivera got her start on the Eddie Murphy-produced CBS series, "The Royal Family" when she was 4-years-old. She also made appearances on "Family Matters," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "The Bernie Mac Show."

Fellow "Glee" cast-members Matthew Morrison and Mark Salling have also embarked on solo careers.

The "Glee Live! In Concert" tour includes cast members Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, Amber Riley, Chris Colfer, Kevin McHale, Jenna Ushkowitz, Mark Salling, Dianna Agron, Naya Rivera, Heather Morris, Harry Shum Jr., Chord Overstreet and Darren Criss. The 16-city tour kicked off on May 21 in Las Vegas, check out the full list of cities here.

A concert documentary shot during the summer tour entitled "Glee Live! 3D!" is slated for release in theaters nationwide on August 12, 2011.

http://www.ontheredcarpet.com/Naya-Rivera-of-Glee-talks-about-upcoming-solo-album--songwriting/8197262

Should be interesting.
Music Heaven

Katy Perry To Release "California Dreams" EP

2011-06-19T17:19:00.000-05:00

Can Katy Perry pull off another hit as blockbuster as 2010's Teenage Dream?
We'll find out very soon since the Perry has returned to the studio with uber-producer
Dr. Luke to put final touches on her new EP album.
ASCAP 2010 Songwriter of the Year caught up with EW to discuss his newest projects but he was most excited about new Katy Perry project.

According to Luke "California Dreams" is the name of the new Katy Perry release that is
set for November 2011 release.Famous producer says they've been working on it since November 2010 and it will contain 9 new tracks including 3 new "Luke produced" songs, as well as production from StarGate,Tricky Stewart and Fernando Garibay.

"We've just finished first single in February and it's a super-collabo but that's all I'm going
to say.(Laughs) Expect it late August.

Don't forget to check the full Dr.Luke interview in the new issue of Entertainment Weekly.

Source - Katy Perry Forums

Can't wait!!
Music Heaven

Hilary Duff Talks Recording New Album in the Summer in Interview

2011-06-17T11:40:00.001-05:00

This has been a year of firsts for Hilary Duff. The singer/actress tied the knot for the first time last August and released her first novel in October. Heck, last month, she even tried melon bowling as part of SoBe's Try Anything celebration. (There really is a first time for everything!) Hilary also had her first chat with Wonderwall

recently, during which we talked about her upcoming one-year anniversary, her advice for Disney's most recent grads and what she'd never try.

On the craziest thing she's tried recently:

"I tried foie gras, which I never had before, and I was really terrified. It had cotton candy wrapped around it, so that seemed even more weird to me, and then I ate it and I was like, 'Oh my God, this is amazing,' so I think you have to try everything once, whether it's skydiving, which I'm about to do in a month and I'm very excited and

nervous about, or food or a new outfit or going up and talking to someone that maybe you would be scared to talk to in the first place -- it really just applies to life in general."

On what she'd never try:

"I'm pretty daring. I'm pretty an active person; I like [taking] risks, I like adrenaline rushes, so there's probably not too many activities I wouldn't try, and I'm pretty willing to try any kind of food. I'm scared of [bungee jumping]. I don't know why I'm more scared of that than jumping out of an airplane. That big cord it

could just snap or something! That doesn't mean I wouldn't do it, but I'd still be terrified."

On her first year of marriage:

"We lived apart for the first year, which was unique. He plays hockey in Pittsburgh all year, and I was back and forth. I just went back through my calendar and realized I flew to Pittsburgh 15 times last year. So it was pretty busy, but it was good. A lot of people tell me the first year you get married is really hard, and I think the only

thing we struggled with was just not getting to be together and spending as much time together as we'd wished."

On how being married differs from just dating:

"There's definitely a giddiness after you get married, how you feel towards each other. You're like, 'Oh my God, we just did that!' It's a really exciting, loving time, and I think that lasted for a while, especially since we were apart and then we'd like be together for three days [or] a week -- it just really trying to enjoy one another with the time

that we got. Now it's pretty normal. I mean, it's still exciting to say, 'Oh, he's my husband.' We were really committed to each other before, so it wasn't like that whole thing where getting married made it more serious than it was."

On her and Mike's anniversary plans:

"We are the worst planners. I always joke with him that if it wasn't for the last minute, he wouldn't get anything done. So we don't have any plans set in stone right now, but we have a few ideas. We either want to go back to where we got married because it's an hour outside of Los Angeles, and it's so beautiful. We also have never been

to Napa Valley to go wine tasting -- we'd really like to do that. We don't really like the pressure; we just like to have a good time. It's fun to be last minute. He's always like, 'Pack your bag, we're going here,' and I'm like, 'OK, let's do it.'"

On long-distance relationships:

"You get to a point where you get really strong without the person. I've done it for so long that I get to this point where I'm like, 'Well, I'm just doing fine by myself.' He's home for the summer, so sometimes I expect an adjustment period where I'm like, 'OK, wait a minute. You're coming into my place, and this is how I do things,

and now you're coming in and doing it this way,' but I think I'm just so happy to have him home. We're lucky. We're super compatible."

On how she'd advise Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez on transitioning out of their Disney phase:

"I still feel like I'm transitioning! It's a long process. I think about the frustrations I have sometimes -- if I don't get a certain part that I want or someone's like, 'Oh my God, I know you. You're from Disney!' I'm like, 'Yeah.' You have to accept where you come from and be proud of it. The

best advice is not railing against your past. Just move forward and take your time and be conscious about the steps you take before you take them, because every move you make is so crucial. It's really important to just sit back and really enjoy your success [and] not be embarrassed of where you came from."

On what she thinks her new music will sound like:

"It's hard to say until I get in the studio with a producer and a writer that I'm in love with and feel like really gets me. A pop/rock dance sound is where I want to go because it's what I like. And strong hooks, I think that's the most important -- songs that get stuck in people's heads and that are catchy and make you feel good."

On her foray into indie films:

"I need to put my time in, to be taken seriously as an actress. When I made those big-budget movies, I was 15 and playing a lot of the same characters, and it was perfect for who I was at the time, but now I don't want to continue doing those same projects. It just gives me experience on a smaller scale and gives me a place to

showcase what I'm capable of and learn and play and figure out who I am as an actress."

On what she's looking forward to most this summer:

"Travel. We always make big travel plans over summer. I don't know where we're going yet. We just got back from Hawaii, which was great, but that was like a quick trip. He's never been to Italy before, so I think we might want to go there. And I'm going to start making my record -- that's going to happen like sooner or later. I won't [be

going to Pittsburgh]. I got plenty of Pittsburgh this year. I had a good time, the people were really nice and just crazy about hockey, but no. I'm looking for a place a little sunnier."

http://on-msn.com/mfUcp9

Can't wait to hear it. PS. I will at the beach tomorrow so no posting tomorrow.
Music Heaven

Play-N-Skillz Sues Lil Wayne For $1 Million For Unpaid Royalites

2011-06-17T11:39:00.000-05:00

Weezy faces another lawsuit for stiffing producers for his double-platinum album.

Following David Kirkwood’s lawsuit earlier this week, producers Play-N-Skillz have filed a $1 million suit against Lil Wayne for unpaid royalties stemming from work on his double platinum album Tha Carter III.

The Dallas, Texas producers produced “Got Money” featuring T-Pain for the project. They claim that they are owed at least $1 million in unpaid royalties from their work.

Kirkwood filed a similar suit earlier this week after he claims he got stiffed for producing “Love Me or Hate Me,” featured on the deluxe version of the LP. In 2007, Bangladesh (“A Milli”) sued for the same reason, as did Darius “Deezle” Harrison in March, seeking $20 million.

Not good for him at all.
Music Heaven

Britney Spears Proves She's Got It at 'Femme Fatale' Tour

2011-06-17T11:37:00.001-05:00

Britney Spears is a dozen years into her career, and yet the kickoff of her Femme Fatale tour at the Power Balance Pavilion in Sacramento last night managed to propel her forward. She's wisely focusing on the present – she sang nine songs from her latest album Femme Fatale and snagged Nicki Minaj as her opening act – while offering possibly her flashiest, fastest moving, and most entertaining production yet.

Taking her entrance atop a moving platform in the first of many skimpy and sparkling Barbarella-esque outfits, Spears kicked off her performance with "Hold It Against Me." Flipping her massive blonde locks/weave/wig in what the Glee kids call "hairography," Spears shook what her hairdresser gave her while dancing hunks in policeman gear suggestively wielded truncheons around her. For "Up n’ Down," she and her female dancers reappeared in several cages made of poles, and were soon to be joined by the cops executing jungle gym acrobatics atop the cages. White satin fedoras and trench coats were donned for "3," and for "Piece of Me" she flew over the stage until the cops ripped off their shirts to reveal S&M bondage harnesses.

It was that kind of show, and the largely female audience sprinkled with some enthusiastic guys liked it that way: Throughout her set, the screaming from the fans rarely relented. Just about every number offered a different a visual theme more over-the-top than the one before it. "Big Fat Bass" featured giant speaker cabinets with woofers circled by flashing, color-changing lights. Spears took her entrance during "How I Roll" in a car that resembled a pink Mini Cooper. The hood folded into steps that allowed Spears to walk over and down the car – one of many agile moves Spears executed without twisting an ankle.

Her set was half over before she sang a track older than four years; this was "Boys (Remix)," followed by the sole slowie, "Don’t Let Me Be the Last to Know," which she sang on a swing. Here her mike was clearly turned on, and the results confirmed why Spears typically relies on prerecorded vocals. Her surprise cover of Madonna’s early single "Burning Up" lacked Madge’s authority, but it did feature Spears straddling a giant glittering guitar 10 or so feet high and twice as long. Her encore of "Toxic" featured a booming Dance Dance Revolution-styled remix with Japanese kimonos and dancing ninjas to match while "Till the World Ends" included Minaj rapping via video — an odd choice, since she was likely still backstage.

Minaj’s own set lacked Spears’s budget or sharp choreography. Instead, the rapper tottered around on lime green platform shoes that threatened to tip her balance. Although she’s styled as a dance-pop diva, Minaj did little dancing — or singing, or even live rapping. Like Spears, much of her vocals were clearly prerecorded, which got a little too obvious during "Monster." Obviously she doesn’t have Kanye West with her, but throughout even her part in the song she sat nearly immobile, not bothering to hold a mike or move her lips.

Minaj clearly has stage presence, and the fact that fans cheered through abbreviated versions of her hits means that she’s doing something right by just showing up. But as a showcase for her considerable talents, her Thursday night performance lacked the commitment of her records. Surely the wild woman of "Did It On’em" can do better.

But really, the night belonged to Britney: She managed to prove that she's still progressing as a showgirl. Not only that, she's doing it better than even diehard defenders would’ve predicted. At 29, the pop star whose career seemed in danger of ending just a couple years ago has shown that she's back – hopefully this time to stay.

Source: Rolling Stone

Can't wait to see her in August!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Music Heaven

Beyonce's 4 WILL be in store June 28.

2011-06-16T15:53:00.001-05:00

Over the last few days, the Internet has been running wild with rumors that Beyoncé‘s latest album, 4, had been pushed back by Columbia Records from its planned June release date to the fall. According to unsubstantiated reports that appeared on various gossip blogs, an “emergency meeting” was called after execs at her label declared the album to be “too concept edgy and extreme” for American tastes. After the difficulty that the first single from the record, “Run The World (Girls),” had gaining traction on radio and in sales, these rumors seemed especially viable.

Adding fuel to the fire was Beyoncé’s Facebook statement last week after 4 leaked and started appearing on file sharing services, a message that included her stating that “this is not how I wanted to present my new songs.” Some interpreted that to mean that she was just upset about the leak, while others theorized that she had not completed work on the songs yet.

However, we here at VH1 decided to go straight to the source to find out once and for all whether or not 4 was officially being pushed back until fall. Sony Music, the parent company of Columbia Records, has yet to make an official statement on the matter, but we went directly to Beyoncé’s publicist this morning and received this statement from her team:

“Beyoncé’s album, 4, will be released on June 28.”

Well, Beyoncé fans, there you have it! Important distinction: As you’ll note, they didn’t say “is scheduled to be released on June 28,” they definitively said “will be released on June 28.” We will keep you abreast of any further developments to this story as they happen.

http://blog.vh1.com/2011-06-16/exclusive-beyoncs-camp-insists-4-will-arrive-on-june-28/

Alrighty then. Glad that was cleared up.
Music Heaven

Christina Aguilera's Awful Year, Explained By Christina

2011-06-16T09:38:00.000-05:00

It has been anything but a stellar year for one time teen queen, Christina Aguilera.

It's been mishap after mishap for months now, first with her album 'Bionic' flopping, then in October, when news first broke that she and husband of five years, Jordan Bratman had split -- from then on it was a downward spiral no one saw coming. Now, the 'Beautiful' songstress is finally talking, addressing each and every unfortunate incident.

'The Voice' judge opens up in the July issue of W magazine, reliving her most disastrous moments from the last year and giving her side of the story.

Aguilera explains, "Sometimes, especially in the last six months, I still feel like going to the window and singing out all my troubles. I laugh a lot lately. People expect me to cry, but I always laugh when things go wrong."

While the world was laughing and speculating about the singer, it seems she had a clear understanding of what was happening to her, one of the worst bad luck streaks, ever. She's picked herself up and dusted herself off, and now she is ready to set the record straight.

When W asked about her failed marriage, she was anything but subtle, hinting that both she and Bratman had been unfaithful: "At one time or another we were both not angels. It got to a point where our life at home was reminding me of my own childhood." She then declared, "I will not have my son grow up in a tension-filled home. I knew there would be a negative reaction in the press to my divorce, but I am not going to live my life because of something someone might say. That goes against everything I sing on my records. I have to be myself."

Bad press about her divorce was the least of her troubles. It was not long before she was out in the public eye with another man, 25-year-old Matt Rutler. The pair met on the set of her disappointing film debut in 'Burlesque.' But a new man wasn't enough to give Aguilera a new start -- it wasn't long before she found her name back in the headlines, detailing her stumbles and unflattering accusations.

It was reported that she passed out in actor Jeremy Renner's bed, during his 40th birthday party. When Renner went into his room, he found her slurring her words, laying in his bed with Rutler rubbing her back. Aguilera's response to this story is simple, "At one point I sat on the edge of a bed. It was a guest room. But it only takes one person to start the negativity, and then everyone wants to hop aboard and continue the story."

It only snowballed from there. The pair made one of their first appearances as a couple at the Super Bowl in February, where Aguilera so famously flubbed the lyrics to 'The Star-Spangled Banner.'

"I got lost in the emotion of being there and I messed up the lyrics to the song." But from her reaction to the incident, she doesn't seem to take herself too seriously. "I went to dinner after the Super Bowl with Matt and I laughed about how I'd made myself into a Trivial Pursuit question: 'In 2011 what female singer flubbed the lyrics to the national anthem?'"

A few weeks later, her stumble on stage during the Grammys put her back in the headlines. Was she intoxicated, or exhausted?

"I know what everyone was saying," Aguilera said. "And during that Grammy moment, when I nearly collapsed, I was thinking, Are you kidding me? I've always been really good with my heels. Even pregnant, I could perform in heels. Note to self: Never wear a train onstage. My heel got caught in my train, and if it wasn't for Jennifer Hudson, who picked me up as I went down, I would have fallen to the floor. When it happened, it was just like, What else, God?! What else?! I threw my hands up in the air and started smiling, because what else could go wrong?"

She had become the butt of every late night joke and the next train wreck to keep an eye out for, but her involvement in the newest singing reality show sensation, 'The Voice,' might just be the boost she had been so desperately in need of.
Let's hope we can give this year's turnaround award to Aguilera.

http://www.popeater.com/2011/06/15/christina-aguilera-explains-awful-year/

Glad she's doing better.
Music Heaven

Pitbull's 3rd single is...

2011-06-16T09:32:00.001-05:00

Rain Over Me (Feat. Marc Anthony)
goes for adds on July 19th http://www.allaccess.com/top40-mainstream/future-releases

Amazing song. Can't wait for it to smash.
Music Heaven

Christina working with Emeli Sandé.

2011-06-14T21:26:00.000-05:00

http://www.musicweek.com/story.asp?s...de=1045513&c=1

As Virgin developed material for her launch as a solo artist, Sandé has been in demand to write for a variety of other artists, including Tinie Tempah, Cheryl Cole, Tinchy Stryder and Professor Green.

She has also attracted the interest of the Syco stable – recently she has been writing for Leona Lewis, Cher Lloyd and Susan Boyle – and last week Christina Aguilera cut one of her tracks for her next album.

While Sandé’s idols include Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, Roberta Flack and Lauryn Hill, much of her material has a distinct Nineties influence, comparable with Massive Attack and Portishead.

“I find it hard to describe my music,” Sandé said. “Lyrics are the most important thing to me. The last two years I have been working on my album but learning my craft, writing for other rappers and singers. It’s an amazing opportunity to write for other people.”

Her material is lavished with string instruments, brass sections and trip hop beats, underlying Sandé’s soaring vocals.

Much of the production is being handled by Jim Abbiss (Arctic Monkeys, Adele) who has been setting up musicians around Sandé to record live. Also involved are Mike Spencer (Jamiroquai, Kylie Minogue) and Naughty Boy.

The first single is the feel-good summer track Heaven (released August 15).

Should be interesting.
Music Heaven

Kelly Rowland's Second Single Is...

2011-06-14T21:21:00.002-05:00

"LAY IT ON ME"
(Feat. Big Sean)

It's an Up-tempo Urban/Rhythmic song which will keep the "Motivation" fans happy yet get much more play on Rhythmic and Pop radio! I HEAR A SMASH!!!

Can't wait to hear it.
Music Heaven

Review of When The Sun Goes Down - Selena Gomez

2011-06-13T18:13:00.000-05:00

SELENA GOMEZ & THE SCENE
WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN
HOLLYWOOD RECORDS (2011)
WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN

WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN – SELENA GOMEZ & THE SCENE
Selena Gomez erupted onto The Scene with bratty synth-pop *and a spawn of Lizzie Mcguire-esque punk attitude on 2009′s Kiss & Tell. The bubble gum pop-tart, whose lyrics once gave off the impression that she bought jelly *bracelets and chokers from Claire’s in hope to be looked at as “bad-ass,” and attempted to further the image on a duet with scene-punk act Forever The Sickest Kids, ultimately without success. Selena & The Scene released their followup, A Year Without Rain in 2010. The album displayed a universal sound, finally, garnished with euro-dancehall influence and glorious lyrics about love, bad days, and how the devil is roaming around in today’s music.

When The Sun Goes Down is a musical succession showcasing Gomez’s progression and how she has grown into a mature, respectable pop artist who can still manage to have the youngster candy-floss sass of an ex-Disney princess.

“Love You Like A Love Song” accelerates into full speed with icy Rock Mafia dubstep wobbles that spotlight during a a swift chorus claiming of being so in love with a lover, that you want to replay the highlights of the love, like clicking play on a CD player. Gomez’s metamorphosis comes to form in the middle 8 where her lush vocals ride the wave of a dreamy faux-trance moment. “No one compares, you stand alone to every record I own.”

Toby Gad’s 80s video-game synths are lavish with confident retro tunage. A constant brag about Selena’s new boy between verses is both silly and cute: “My new boy he’s got more swagger than you.. My new boy used to be a model,” holding over unborn R&B inspired verses/vocals. Writer Pixie Lott’s delicate touch on a bundle of crystal-clear “Woah-oh-ohs” in “Bang Bang Bang”‘s chorus is both necessary and charismatic.

“Who Says” is acoustic and polished, but yet another “I *ME” anthem. It’s a track to listen to when you’re facing a breezy summer day filled with troubled looks or self-esteem issues. “Who says you can’t be in movies, listen to, listen to me, who says you can’t past the test” is a cry of hope to troubled youth, on top of a sparkly chime as the end approaches makes it less sappy and more empowering and, well, believable.

“We Own The Night” is paired with Toby G’s composition of simplified guitar, modified piano, and a singing drum that reminisces of 2001′s Top 40. The track is a calming celebration of spending good times with good friends, putting our day-to-day problems aside, and becoming an A.I. addition of ourselves as the night starts to appear. “Do whatever, be whoever we like, We sleep when we die! Don’t worry about nothing, we own the night!” It’s a husky serenade glimmering over the starry main moment. The cryptic robots spewing words back and forth during the last chorus before the song climbs to its apex turns things around last minute and rubs off an electronic certainty.

From start to finish, you can easily tell that Dr. Luke both produced and wrote “Hit The Lights”. A drum that is being forced to move in the same direction and that same ol’ flashing-fire synth with lyrics that are surprisingly witty. The song presumes that we have a second chance at something we’ve missed out on by converting the energy and losing our regrets on the dance-floor.. “It’s a mad mad world, got to make an escape..” The oblivious shouting in the chorus is tasteless, though, and the lack of ear-striking production puts the lyrics to waste.

Mega pop connoisseur Greg Kurstin’s odyssey “Whiplash” is rancid, hypnotic, and mysterious in the sense that the sounds are playing a game of hide-and-go-seek on a back lit dance floor. With its provoking ambiance, Gomez could’ve possibly recorded it above the pit of a volcano. At times, the song emulates the actual voyeuristic feeling of someone watching you. The pre-chorus is completely berserk, rapidly spoken with British accents, and purrs transitions into a chorus that sincerely bleeds pop: “I’m so in love I think I’m going to crash again! Whiplash-lash-lash,” chants of vocal repetition, space-house “la la la la’s” and cheerleader chants of “Whiplash” makes this track the albums keeper.

The catch to all of this? “Whiplash” was co-written by Britney Spears, the original sex-kitten school girl who clearly cut the song before Gomez, as there is no way Selena could do such a spot-on signature Britney vocal impersonation, with whispers, croons, and audible lip smacks, unless SGo spent her childhood singing along to In The Zone with a brush as the microphone.

Max Martin and Dr. Luke join forces –a rarity, for pop music’s Jesus and Moses– in “When The Sun Goes Down”. Co-penned by vixen Bonnie Mckee with a so-effing-hip ode to Steve Jobs, (“I checked my iphone.. Let me see whats going on!”) Selena preludes to the party-starter chorus where her vocals are nothing but comfortable as she excitingly speed-sings, “The party doesn’t start till the sung goes down!” The track reprises the familiar effects of robots chatting in-verse, as well as cheerleader chants.

“My Dilemma” is a straight 80s-inspired disco dilemma where Gomez complains about being attached to someone who is nothing but bad for her. The fizzle of a bubbly pop-punk rasp in unison with The Knack’s immortal rhythm invention “M-m-m-m-y”. “Dilemma” is a listenable, but ultimately open-and-shut pop track, filler for the album.

Selena is Katy Perry’s dress-up doll on “That’s More Like It”, an oddly out of place feminist song that could be a perspective on gender roles in a relationship. “Make me dinner, bring it to me, that’s more like it!,” she thwacks with an invisible wink on top of the laid back Billy Steinberg jitterbug.

Penultimately, “Outlaw” is a hazy motion upon airy rave characteristics that squander over Gomez’s dark howl disclosing a modern day Casanova who’s dying inside — “The next girl who leaves gets smaller in your rear view mirror.”

The finale is “The Middle Of No Where” a techno love confessional matched with a 80s arena-ready chorus that could be drifted away due to an unlevelled bass line that can’t decide if it’s going to shut up and let Selena own the final track, or not, on When The Sun Goes Down.

( source: http://alexkazemi.com/2011/06/when-the-sun-goes-down-selena-gomez/ )

Can't wait to hear it.
Music Heaven

LMFAO - Sorry For Party Rocking [Official Tracklisting]

2011-06-12T10:57:00.000-05:00

The Californian dance duo are their second studio record on the world. The band shot to fame in 2009 with their hit "I'm In Miami Bitch" and have since had a number one around the world with the single "Party Rock Anthem" - as well as singing the theme to MTV's hit show Jersey Shore.

The band recently shot a video for their second single "Champagne Showers", due for release soon.

Album drops June 20th.

Tracklisting
1. Rock The Beat II
2. Sorry for Party Rocking
3. Party Rock Anthem
4. Sexy and I Know It
5. Champagne Showers
6. One Day
7. Put That A$$ To Work
8. Take It To The Hole
9. We Came Here To Party
10. Reminds Me Of You
11. Best Night
12. All Night Long
13. With You
14. Hot Dog

Excited for this.
Music Heaven

Katharine McPhee Inks Solo Deal With Columbia Records

2011-06-12T10:52:00.000-05:00

Columbia Records Teams With NBC For 'Smash' Music Albums, Inks Solo Recording Deal With Co-Star Katharine McPhee

EXCLUSIVE: Following in the footsteps of Fox's Glee, NBC has signed a deal with Columbia Records for the soundtrack of the network's new musical drama series Smash. Additionally, Columbia has signed a solo recording pact with Smash breakout star and American Idol alumna Katharine McPhee. I hear Columbia, which also handles the soundtracks for Glee and the upcoming X Factor, landed the rights to Smash after a bidding war. The deal, brokered by NBCUniversal Television Consumer Products Group, gives Columbia Records worldwide, digital and physical rights to the first season of Smash, with options to subsequent seasons. It includes both original songs, written exclusively for the TV series by the Tony Award-winning duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, and covers of hit songs featured on the show. "Our Columbia Records partners will guide the soundtrack of Smash into a big component of the show’s success,” said NBC chairman Bob Greenblatt. Added Rob Stringer, Chairman of Columbia/Epic Label Group, "Music is at the heart of Smash, and with our wonderfully creative broadcast partners, we will develop innovative strategies to present this music to a huge audience."

Smash, slated to air in mid-season behind The Voice on Mondays, stars Debra Messing, Christian Borle, McPhee and Anjelica Huston and follows the creation of a Broadway musical about Marilyn Monroe. Playwright/screenwriter Theresa Rebeck wrote the pilot and is executive producing the series with Steven Spielberg, on whose idea the show is based, Craig Zadan & Neil Meron, Darryl Frank & Justin Falvey, Shaiman & Wittman and David Marshall Grant. Following her runner-up finish on American Idol in 2006, McPhee has released 2 albums, a self-titled one in 2007, which premiered at the #2 spot on the Billboard 200, and Unbroken in January 2010, which debuted at #27.

http://www.deadline.com/2011/06/columbia-records-teams-with-nbc-for-smash-music-albums-inks-solo-recording-deal-with-co-star-kathatine-mcphee/

So excited for her.
Music Heaven

Cheryl Cole says NO to Girls aloud Reunion

2011-06-12T10:48:00.000-05:00

CHERYL Cole’s career was in crisis last night after she refused to rejoin Girls Aloud for a comeback album and tour.

The axed X Factor judge, 27, angered pal Sarah Harding by spurning the deal – and has been snubbed from her wedding.

Cheryl was contacted by record label executives just hours after it was confirmed she had been dropped from American X Factor.

But in a shock move she snubbed a six-figure deal to join Sarah, 29, Nicola Roberts, 25, Kimberley Walsh, 29, and Nadine Coyle, 25, for the band’s long-awaited comeback.

An insider said: “Cheryl has made it very clear she has no intention of rejoining the girls next year – or ever. She turned the offer down within minutes, barely even considering it.

“She’s admitted to friends she’d see going back to Girls Aloud as a massive step backwards.

“Cheryl is convinced she can still crack America with her solo material, so she wants to focus on that.”

Industry experts now fear the babe’s career could be over as she continues to snub big money deals.

Our insider said: “Cheryl has now turned down UK X Factor and a Girls Aloud reunion, so it looks like she’s forgotten they’re the reasons she’s famous in the first place.

“It’s highly unlikely she ever had the offer to go back to US X Factor but if she did and turned that down too, she really is losing her grip on things. She’s acting like no job is good enough for her. Getting stroppy won’t win her any fans.”

Pal Sarah has also dealt Cheryl a crushing blow by not inviting her to her wedding next month.

Sarah, who is set to marry DJ Tom Crane, 31, fears involving Cheryl will turn the bash into a “media circus” and take the focus off her.

Despite being a bridesmaid at Cheryl’s wedding to Ashley Cole, 30, in 2006, Sarah has told one wedding guest she will snub Cheryl.

Our insider, who is invited to the ceremony, said: “It’s no secret Sarah is jealous of Cheryl and all the attention she gets.

“This is supposed to be her big day and, for once, she wants it to be about her and not Cheryl.

“Sarah wants to keep details of the day quiet so she and Tom can have a relatively private wedding – she isn’t bothered about a big showbiz guest list.

“But if Cheryl comes there will be no chance of that, it will be a media circus.”

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/view/195527/Cheryl-Cole-turns-down-a-Girls-Aloud-reunion/

Kelly Rowland Announces Album Release Date!

2011-06-09T23:26:00.000-05:00

The Destiny’s Child diva has settled on a July 26 release date for her third solo album Here I Am, Universal Motown exclusively confirms to Rap-Up.com. The new date comes as her Lil Wayne-assisted single “Motivation” continues to soar, hitting No. 1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

The album features contributions from Rico Love, Tricky Stewart, Dr. Luke, Stargate, Salaam Remi, Jim Jonsin, RedOne, Ester Dean, and more. Kelly was recently announced as a judge for Britain’s “X Factor,” which is currently taping in London.

Source

So Excited.
Music Heaven

Michelle Williams shooting new music video

2011-06-09T10:53:00.000-05:00

She's been recording a new song in Germany for the past week or so and is going to Ibiza, Spain today to shoot a video OMG

I AM SO SLAIN RIGHT NOW, THIS IS ALL SO SOON. TENITRA, THE UNDERRATED, THE INCREDIBLE OMG.

June 3rd
RealMichelleW (Michelle Williams) wrote:
@Reez_Md A music video for a song I just recorded here n Germany a few days ago! It's called On The Run!! @gawouz

June 4th
RealMichelleW (Michelle Williams) wrote:
Alright....it's 2:57 AM in Munich. I am beat! Goin to Ibiza, Spain tomorrow! CAN NOT WAIT! Goodnite world!

Michelle Williams' Official Twitter

Can't wait! I love her music.
Music Heaven

Is Beyonce's 4 Cancelled???

2011-06-09T10:49:00.002-05:00

Well it’s official, Columbia Records started making strides to push Beyonce’s fourth Studio album titled “4″ back to September. The record label made the decision late Wednesday evening in an emergency meeting. Record executives at Columbia Records felt that a leak of the 3 weeks was too severe and would hurt record sales. Columbia records cancelled all printing orders for the album until further notice.

Solid sources tell us that Jay Z who is reportedly head of Beyonce’s new management team agrees with the record label but Beyonce does not. Beyonce reportedly called her own emergency meeting in London. Word around Beyonce’s Camp is that Beyonce is now contemplating making an emergency trip back to the states to personally plead her case to Columbia Records.

Sources say that Jay Z wants to pick an entire new set of songs (minus the singles that have already been released). However, Columbia wants Beyonce to redo the entire album over because they feel the other songs Beyonce turned in are too concept edgy and extreme and fear they want play well in America and Beyonce, sources say is worried about making the Grammy’s September deadline.

This story is still developing but check back with Black Media Jungle for more updates. We have a feeling more is to come. Remember where you heard it first from.

http://www.blackmediajungle.com/breaking-news-columbia-records-pushes-beyonces-album-back/

I don't know if this true but her album was very dissapointing.
Music Heaven

Gwen Stefani confirms "no more solo career"

2011-06-08T19:02:00.001-05:00

Gwen Stefani has revealed that her days of being a solo artist are over.

The 'Bubble Pop Electric' singer spoke to Entertainment Weekly about her solo career, calling it a phase that has now passed.

"That was a moment in time," Stefani said of her solo career. "It went on a little longer than we all thought it would, because it was inspired and you have to go with wherever you're at in that time in your life... [But] everything works out how it should."

Now that Stefani has come to the end of her solo career, No Doubt is finally getting back together. The group will announce their plans for the future this Friday.

The 41-year-old teased a "happy" No Doubt album in April, revealing that she believes the record will hit shelves later this year.

Stefani's child Zuma was recently rushed to the hospital after suffering a broken right arm from a fall in the kitchen. The 2-year-old is now fine, according to Stefani's husband Gavin Rossdale.

Boo. I want another album from but I'm super excited for what No Doubt has coming.
Music Heaven

AOL's 25 Best Pop Songs of 2011

2011-06-08T19:00:00.001-05:00

We're halfway through 2011, which means it's time to name the top 25 pop songs of the year (so far). From apocalyptic club hits like Britney Spears' 'Till the World Ends,' to star-studded collaborations like Chris Brown's 'Look at Me Now' with Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne, to fist-pumping anthems like Lady Gaga's 'Born This Way' -- here are the 25 best pop songs of the year to date.

25 'Backseat' New Boyz Feat. Dev and the Cataracs
Hip-hop duo the New Boyz rap about bumping in the backseat in this Cataracs-produced jam. The track is filled with suggestive double entendres like, "I wanna get beside ya/ In the backseat/ So I can be your backseat driver" and the Boyz solicited the vocals of fellow-Californian Dev for the hook to get the party poppin'.

24 'Price Tag' Jessie J Feat. B.o.B.
Brit-import Jessie J came to make a splash on this side of the pond with her song 'Price Tag' that's "not about the money (money, money)." JJ got American rapper B.o.B. to help her deliver the anti-materialism message in her stateside debut. Though her UK chart performance outshines her US numbers, there's no denying this song's catchy hook and feel-good vibe.

23 'Dirty Dancer' Enrique Feat. Lil Wayne and Usher
Smoldering Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias teamed up with rapper Lil Wayne and club hit-making vet Usher to produce a sexy single about getting down and dirty on the dance floor. The RedOne-produced track debuted at No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is sure to keep you sweating through the summer.

22 'The Lazy Song' Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars was anything but lazy when he made this reggae-inspired mid-tempo track. The mellow third single from his debut album 'Doo-Wops & Hooligans' has thus far peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Lay the '50s-style crooner's vocals over a beach-easy island beat and you've got the perfect summer jam.

21 'Right There' Nicole Scherzinger Feat. 50 Cent
Ex-Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger hit it 'Right There' with her third solo single overseas, but it wasn't until she joined forces with rapper 50 Cent that she re-released the song as a remix in the US. Co-writer and producer Jim Jonsin makes his first of two appearances on our list for his work on the track, which 50 calls "just another No. 1."

20 'Sure Thing' Miguel
Miguel's velvety vocals call out for the "cash" for his "rubberband" and a "lighter" for his "blunt" in this sultry ode to soul mates. 'Sure Thing' marks the neo-soul singer's first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and is his most successful single to date. Who wouldn't want to be loved "like a brother," treated "like a friend" and respected "like a lover?"

19 'Super Bass' Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is her always flirtatious self in this lighthearted love song with a pop hook. 'Super Bass' has so far peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100. The lyrical mastermind keeps it playful as she raps about her dream guy who's "always in the air, but he never fly coach" and compares her heartbeat to a boomin' bass speaker.

18 'Motivation' Kelly Rowland Feat. Lil Wayne
This song is contemporary baby-making music at its best. 'Motivation' is Kelly Rowland's biggest solo hit on the Hot 100 chart, reaching a current peak at No. 21, and landing the No. 1 spot on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart. Producer Jim Jonsin and frequently featured rapper Lil Wayne helped Kelly make the remix-ready slow jam.

17 'Best Love Song' T-Pain Feat. Chris Brown
Auto-tune extraordinaire T-Pain teamed up with Chris Brown in an attempt to make "the best love song she ever heard in her life." According to Pain and C-Breezy, "It's gotta be the crunkest/ It's gotta be the loudest," and this song fits the bill. We're not sure we would necessarily call it the "best love song ever," but it definitely earns a spot on our top 25 pop songs of the year (so far).

16 'Run the World (Girls)' Beyonce
Beyonce's anthemic dance hit is an ode to women who are "smart enough to make these millions/ Strong enough to bear the children then get back to business." With heavy sampling of the Major Lazer track 'Pon de Floor,' B co-penned the single with a star-studded group of writers including, Diplo and Switch (who make up Major Lazer), The-Dream, Afrojack and Adidja Palmer. "My persuasion can build a nation," sing Beyonce. All hail Queen B!

15 'Judas' Lady Gaga
Gaga ruffled a few feathers with her take on the betrayal of Jesus with this provocative single. Gaga wrote 'Judas' about ex-boyfriend, heavy metal drummer Luc Carl, and explained, "I began to write a song about an ex-lover who betrayed me ... And then I thought about the biblical implications and how Judas was the betrayer." Gaga later defended her work from critics who condemned her hit as blasphemy.

14 'Blow' Ke$ha
Glitter goddess Ke$ha peaked at No. 7 on the Hot 100 with this synth-heavy, electro-pop dance track. "Go insane/ Throw some glitter/ Make it rain," Ke$ha insists of her party posse. Ke$ha collaborated with a star production team of Dr. Luke, Max Martin, Benny Blanco and Kool Kojak to produce this dance-all-night hit.

13 'Moment 4 Life' Nicki Minaj Feat. Drake
Nicki and Drake took their much-publicized but ultimately fictional romance to the next level in this song about two kids growing up together and sharing a dream of becoming famous rappers. Drake raps, "f--- it me and Nicki Nick gettin' married today/ And now you b-----s that be hatin' can catch a bouquet." The rap-romance hit claimed No. 1 slots on both Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and its US Rap Songs charts.

12 'On the Floor' Jennifer Lopez Feat. Pitbull
Commercially, 'On the Floor' is Jennifer's most successful single to date, topping more than 18 national single charts and peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. JLo teamed up with rapper Pitbull, to make this song for "a new generation of party people." Producer RedOne is churning out the club hits this year and makes his second appearance on our list with his work on this fiery track.

11 'Hold It Against Me' Britney Spears
'Hold It Against Me' is the trance and dubstep-influenced hit lead single from Britney's 'Femme Fatale' album. The Dr. Luke and Max Martin-produced banger debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 1, making Spears the second artist in Billboard's history to debut at No. 1 more than once (after Mariah Carey). An unabashed Brit is on the prowl asking, "If I said I want your body now/ Would you hold it against me?"

10 'The Edge of Glory' Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga's third single from 'Born This Way' is a Bon Jovi-meets-Bruce Springsteen fist-pumper. The song was so successful as a promotional single, that it was given a full release and hit No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Gaga's powerful and passionate vocals paired with an uber-inspirational hook and a saxophone solo make for the perfect rock-pop anthem.

09 'F-----' Perfect' P!nk
P!nk rips into the song with her rasping rockstar vocals and somehow endearing potty mouth declaring beauty is in the eye of the beholder. "Pretty, pretty please, if you ever, ever feel like you're nothing/ You're f---in' perfect to me," P!nk insists with her signature take-it-or-leave-it attitude. Pop's powerhouse producer Max Martin strikes yet again, helping the track chart at No. 2 on the Hot 100.

08 'S&M' Rihanna
Rihanna reveals her X-rated sexual fantasies in this song, which she insists are a metaphor for her love-hate relationship with the media. Produced by Stargate and Sandy Vee, the naughty track peaked at No. 2 until the remix featuring Britney Spears pushed the song to the No. 1 spot, giving RiRi her 10th No. 1 single. We love this jam for its infectious hook and unabashed sexual openness.

07 'Till the World Ends' Britney Spears
Britney strikes again with this Ke$ha-penned, apocalyptic club hit about dancing until an impending apocalypse. Brit Brit used her 'Hold It Against Me' production dream team of Dr. Luke/Max Martin for the track, which landed the No. 3 spot on the Hot 100. The super-catchy track got a raging remix treatment from its writer Ke$ha and Brit's Femme Fatale tourmate Nicki Minaj.

06 'Give Me Everything' Pitbull Feat. Ne-Yo, Nayer, Afrojack
Pitbull appears again on our list, this time as the principal act with featured artists Ne-Yo and Nayer on the hypnotic hook. Pitbull has thus far peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 with the help of popular party-jam producer Afrojack. Reminiscent of Briney's 'Till the World Ends' message, the Cuban rapper wants it all and he wants it tonight, 'cause "for all we know we might not get tomorrow." All in all, the perfect summer lovin' that may just be a one-night-stand track. So, "Grab somebody sexy, tell 'em hey."

05 'Look at Me Now' Chris Brown Feat. Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne
Chris Brown tries his hand at rapping with a couple of hip-hop's finest -- Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne -- on this Diplo, Afrojack and Free School-produced track. The eerie, down-tempo beat makes your stomach want to turn while the cocky trio's neck-breakingly fast rhymes keep you on your toes. Wayne's rhymes are in high demand -- Weezy makes his third appearance as a featured act on our list with this C-Breezy hit.

04 'E.T.' Katy Perry Feat. Kanye West
Katy Perry and Kanye West get supernatural on this Hot 100 No. 1 about alien sex. Katy sings the story of falling in love with a foreigner -- we're guessing British-born hubby, comedian Russell Brand -- by way of extraterrestrial metaphors. Dream production duo Dr. Luke and Max Martin strike yet again, this time with the help of DJ Ammo, producing the "stomp-stomp-clap" beat, reminiscent of Queen's 1977 hit 'We Will Rock You.'

03 'Just Can't Get Enough' The Black Eyed Peas
BEP frontman will.i.am produced this video game-esque electro-dance hit with DJ Ammo and Rodney Jerkins for the Peas. The song opens with orchestral strings and Fergie's wispy, airy vocals before Will and Taboo break it down with the help of auto-tune. The best part of the track? The head-banging "mega switch-up" hyping up the tempo for the big euro-dance, electro-pop-infused finale.

02' All of the Lights' Kanye West Feat. Rihanna
Produced by Kanye West himself, 'All of the Lights' is a triumphant, epic symphony featuring the layered vocals of 15 different artists. Rihanna is the only credited artist on the track, but the song includes additional vocals from artists including Alicia Keys, John Legend, The-Dream, Drake, Fergie, Kid Cudi, Elton John, and more. The song received rave reviews from music critics who recognized its detailed production and applauded its dramatic style. And if anyone knows drama, it's Kanye.
Kanye West
Amazon

01 'Born This Way' Lady Gaga
"Put your paws up" for our No. 1 pop song of 2011 so far. The lead single from 'Born This Way' spent a total of six weeks topping the Hot 100 and became the fastest-selling song in iTunes history, selling one million copies in five days. Since its release in February, 'Born' has faced Madonna rip-off allegations and had an entire episode of the hit show 'Glee' dedicated to it. In addition to its success in the US, the single was an international hit, landing No. 1 in 19 countries.

I like almost all of the songs but wtf with gaga at #1. But whatever great list overall.
Music Heaven

Lady Antebellum Sets September Release for 'Own the Night'

2011-06-07T22:01:00.000-05:00

Country trio Lady Antebellum have announced their highly anticipated third album, "Own the Night," which will be issued Sept. 13 through Capitol Nashville.

"We've spent the last year, year and a half writing for it, and we're really proud," Charles Kelley -- who comprises Lady A along with Dave Haywood and Hillary Scott -- told Billboard.com about the new album on the red carpet at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards.

The group released the new album's first single, "Just a Kiss," last month, and performed the track on "American Idol" and at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards. "Kiss" debuted at No. 7 on the Hot 100 last month, and currently sits at No. 15 in its fourth week on the Country Songs tally.

"We're just excited. With the first single debuting in the top 10, we never expected that, so hopefully off to a good start," says Kelley. "You never know until it gets out there with the fans. We feel good about it, but they'll let us know if they like it or not."

"Own the Night" follows "Need You Now," the group's breakout sophomore disc that spent four weeks atop the Billboard 200 and notched the group five Grammy awards last February. Since its Jan. 2010 release, "Need You Now" has moved 3.5 million copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Music Heaven

Katy Perry announces US Arena dates!

2011-06-06T22:49:00.000-05:00

American songstress Katy Perry has announced a short arena tour of the US at the end of November. British newcomer Jessie J has been announced as the opener.

Katy is scheduled to begin a four month tour of North America tomorrow.

Tickets on sale June 17th

November 15th - XL Center - Hartford, United States
November 16th - Madison Square Garden - New York City, United States
November 19th - Mandalay Bay Events Center - Las Vegas, United States
November 21st - Oracle Arena - Oakland, United States
November 22nd - Staple Center - Los Angeles, United States

Wish I could go.
Music Heaven

Mickey Factz x The White House Band Live In NYC

2011-06-06T22:42:00.000-05:00

July 7th - #RapRocksNYC w/ The White House Band, Mickey Factz + More!

You are receiving this because you cover live music concerts and post important music news. If you feel this email has reached you in error, please unsubscribe at the bottom of this email.
Here it is! Another amazingly eccentric lineup! This time we bring you Mickey Factz as our co-headliner with the always awesome White House Band for this edition of #RapRocks!
Tickets are onsale. There will be some giveaways via FLUD Watches, and KarmaloopTV.
Please alert your audience about this amazing event, and if you want to cover this event for your website we are confirming media as we speak and press passes are limited!
PS. Please Include The White House Band's latest video "#Wasup!" in the post with the flyer. LINK
Details are below :
When - July 7th Doors @ 730pm
Where - Studio @ Webster Hall - 125 E 11th St NY
What - #RapRocks w/ The White House Band, Mickey Factz, Nyle Vs The Naysayers, Rocky Business + More
Why - The best concert experience mixing both genres, indie and major.
How - $10 adv / $12 day of show. Limited amount of press passes available.

Not really my thing but thought I would post anyway.
Music Heaven

Jessica Sutta interview

2011-06-04T10:00:00.001-05:00

The Pussycat Dolls are an international sensation with a string of pop/R&B/dance hits including "Don't Cha," "Buttons," and "Stickwitu." While lead doll Nicole Scherzinger has released a few solo singles, the dance world is focused on Jessica Sutta who has scored number one singles working with dance producers Paul Van Dyk ("White Lies"), Dave Aude ("Make It Last") and her first promo single for the album (I wanna be bad).

DJ Monza : So tell us about the album, how excited are you about it?
Jessica Sutta: I am extremely excited about this album, I have been working none stop producing this and making it happen. I live in the studio daily, I would write my own music and try to create a dance-inspired record with top music producers in the industry.

DJ Monza: How would you describe the sound of the album?
Jessica Sutta: Well, my friends calls it "True dance music". I try to add alternative rock, R&B with a little pop into this record. I want to show my fans and gain new ones. I have a feeling that this is my time to shine, not as a girl from pussycat dolls but a true musical, recording artist.

DJ Monza: Which is your favorite song?
Jessica Sutta: That's a tough one. I love them all. Well when I first released my promo single, "I wanna be bad" a lot of fans were shock by this song. I had fantastic feedbacks. It was a huge hit. People thought I can only dance for Nicole. (Laughed) Their words not mine.

DJ Monza: Speaking of Nicole, how do you feel about her becoming a judge on the x factor US?
Jessica Sutta: To be perfectly honestly with you, myself and Nicole haven't been in contact for awhile now. We had what we called a business relationship. It kind of ended when we stop working together. I have no bad feelings against her. She's an amazing singer.

DJ Monza: Are you trying to avoid the question?
Jessica Sutta: (Laughed) NO. I think she will make a great judge.

DJ Monza: What do you think of Cheryl Cole?
Jessica Sutta: Who?

DJ Monza: She was replaced by Nicole on the x factor.
Jessica Sutta: Honestly though, I haven't been following the news lately. I've been trying to get this album done in time for this year, maybe early next year.

DJ Monza: Tell us more about the album, any featured artist?
Jessica Sutta: Talking about featuring, I have been in contact with many top singers right now. I'm signed to Hollywood records just recently. I wanna make sure that this album will go out with a bang.

DJ Monza: Can you give us some name?
Jessica Sutta: My label has been sending details to Gaga's team for some of the songs that I wrote. I used to work for Interscope records, with the PCD, so we're trying to make it happen. As of now, nothing has been heard from her team.

DJ Monza: Would you consider a duet with Nicole?
Jessica Sutta: Who knows..

Music Heaven

Nicole Interview

2011-06-04T09:56:00.000-05:00

The former Pussycat Doll on her X Factor boss, why her and Lewis Hamilton are well matched and wearing skimpy clothes

For someone voted one of the world’s sexiest women, Nicole Scherzinger doesn’t set much store by her appearance.
‘A lot of people think you get into this position in life because of looks, but looks mean nothing without the right attitude and the ability to work 24/7 for what you want.’
These days she’s rarely out of the headlines, not least because of her position as No 1 female pop icon on the U.S. version of The X Factor following Cheryl Cole’s unexpected departure.
She was born in Hawaii, where her Filipino father left the family when she was two. At six she moved to Kentucky with her mother and stepfather, Gary Scherzinger, who became a great supporter.
‘He’d drive me to auditions in beaten-up old cars, and he always knew what to say if things went well or they didn’t.’
She found fame with the Pussycat Dolls – known for outrageous performances in skimpy outfits – before becoming a solo performer. Next year she’s starring in Men In Black III.
Aged 32, she has been dating Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton for three years.

I’m not at all nervous about The X Factor.
Simon (Cowell) has this unbelievable way of making you feel at ease. At the same time it’s this huge deal. There was a rumour of a feud between me and Cheryl, which is totally untrue. I also think you have to remember that The X Factor isn’t about the judges; it’s about those people out there with their dreams, and to be part of their journey makes me feel very humble.

Simon Cowell is a genius – he’s also very funny.
He and Louis Walsh were amazing to work with. They’d sit together and say incredibly awful things to each other and then burst out laughing, like brothers. There’s never a dull moment around Simon, because there’s always something going on; his brain never stops working.

Being a Pussycat Doll was like being an Olympic athlete who has to perform every day for years without sleep.
I spent four years with these superwomen and it was the toughest thing I’ve ever done. We performed and performed and performed – one night in one country, the next in a new country. In between we were travelling, rehearsing, learning new routines – there was often no time to sleep or eat or call your family. It was utterly brutal and the best training camp for anyone who wants to work in this business.

People thought we had non-stop catfights, but those girls will be my sisters for life.
We slept, breathed, sang and shared the same tiny space together for years, and honestly there was no time or room for fights. I went from being this shy little girl with hang-ups about wearing a bikini to this creature who performed in the teeniest clothes with total confidence. Being a Pussycat Doll turned me from a girl into a woman.

I absolutely love having money, because I grew up without it.
I came from a very working-class family, and money for me and my sister Ke’ala was very tight. Our clothes came from sales shops, and for me to have dance or acting lessons was a very big sacrifice. But it hit me very early on that if I could earn money from doing auditions and commercials, then that would pay for my classes, which was what I did. My parents helped me in every way they could. The first thing I did with my first pay cheque was buy a house for my mum.

I lived through college eating only pancakes and noodles.
I can exist on practically nothing because of how I grew up. I got a place at a performing-arts school, but I paid the fees by working my way through it. Food was something I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on. I’d buy bulk packs of pancake mix and use water instead of milk – and I’d alternate with cheap packs of noodles. I love to eat out now, and when I go into a very expensive, glitzy restaurant I still savour every mouthful.

Don’t complain – be positive, despite all the rejections you face.
If things don’t work, keep on going. You never know when you’re going to get your lucky break. Before Pussycat Dolls I won a reality TV contest to be part of a band – Eden’s Crush. I thought that was it, but it didn’t work out and the band broke up. It wasn’t a great time for me. But this is what happens in life, and you always just have to work as hard as you can.

Lewis and I are well suited because we come from very similar backgrounds.
Like me he grew up in a very humble family and he was incredibly focused on what he wanted to do. We were both kids with big dreams who achieved them through a lot of hard work and determination, and both of us really appreciate what we have because of that.

Looking sexy was a big shock for me.
I came from quite a strict and religious family in Hawaii and my grandad was a preacher. I was known as ‘nice little Nicole’ and I always went for good-girl roles in plays and shows, because that was how I saw myself. When I got the opportunity to be part of the Pussycat Dolls, I saw it as my big chance – and then I saw the clothes. The first time I did a photo shoot I cried all the way through it. They had to keep refixing my make-up, and I kept pulling at my tiny clothes, trying to get a bit more coverage out of them. I called my mum to tell her and to warn her. She just kept asking me if I could get them to change the name of the band.

My nickname at school was ‘Cry baby’.
I was the most fragile, vulnerable kid and very easily hurt. I’d burst into tears if anyone was mean. It always amazes me how this kid who was so easily knocked also had this burning desire to perform. I wanted to sing, to act, to get up on a stage and show what I could do, but when I was off that stage I was hurt by the slightest thing. I see that same contradiction in so many of these X Factor hopefuls.

If I want to look really sexy I’ll wear a sophisticated dress and heels – not a Pussycat Doll outfit.
I think real sex appeal is all about being a bit more demure. Since leaving the Dolls I’ve actually got to wear dresses below my knee, and I think that’s a lot more sexy. The real me is a big-haired Eighties rocker with skintight jeans and a guitar. I’m such a sad rock chick underneath everything, and if I could really dress as I wanted to I’d be straight out of an Eighties heavy metal video. The best time I’ve ever had on stage was rocking out with Slash from Guns N’ Roses.

I was very rude to Tim Rice-Oxley from Keane and I’m so embarrassed about it.
I spent a week in a studio with him, and for hours we’d laugh about how the British said ‘Mojito’ and how the Americans did. It was like our big private joke. A year later we were both at an event and he came up to me and said ‘Mojito’ and started laughing. I just looked at him blankly and he said it again and again. I said, ‘Tim, why do you keep saying “Mojito”?’ He looked totally stunned and said, ‘But Nicole, it’s our joke.’ I was so embarrassed. In my defence, I have the world’s worst memory.

I can drink with the big boys.
My mother is half Russian and I can drink like a Russian. Some of the best shows I’ve done were with the worst hangovers. You think you can’t possibly crawl onto a stage but then you push yourself because you have to and with all the adrenaline, the dancing and singing, that hangover is history.
Nicole’s new single ‘Right There’ is out today

Great interview
Music Heaven

Wynter Gordon - WTMID EP News/Tracklisting

2011-06-02T21:19:00.001-05:00

Wynter Gordon has unveiled details of her eagerly anticipated new EP! "WITH THE MUSIC I DIE" will arrive in stores and at all DSPs on June 28th!

The EP is highlighted by the breakout single, "Til Death," alongside a number of new songs and previously unreleased remixes (tracklisting below!). "Til Death" – which is already available at iTunes, as is an exclusive collection featuring remixes by Dan Castro, R3hab, PolenRockers, Ken Loi, Denzel Park, and WaWa – is currently blowing up at dance clubs nationwide! In addition, the track’s companion video – directed by Adam Donald – recently had its world television premiere on Logo’s NewNowNext Music, and can be viewed HERE.

"Til Death" has quickly proven a sensation in Australia, where Wynter will release a full-length international debut album, also titled "WITH THE MUSIC I DIE," on June 17th. The single follows Gordon’s previous Down Under smash, "Dirty Talk," which earned #1 airplay and 3x-platinum ARIA certification.

Here in the US, "Dirty Talk" topped Billboard's "Dance Club Play Songs" chart upon its 2010 release, while also spending countless weeks as a Top 10 favorite on iTunes' "Top Dance Songs" chart. The track's success came hot on the heels of Wynter's popular collaboration with Freemasons' on the UK dance hit, "Believer."

Wynter will also be making an array of North American live appearances throughout the summer, including the Colossus Pride Weekend at San Francisco's Sound Factory on June 25th and the "Dance on the Pier 25 Festival" at the NYC Gay Pride Parade on June 26th, where Wynter is the featured performer!

Keep it locked onto WynterGordon.com for info on Wynter's upcoming "WITH THE MUSIC I DIE" EP and check out the official tracklisting below!

"WITH THE MUSIC I DIE" EP (Big Beat/Atlantic)

1. "Til Death"
2. "Buy My Love"
3. "Don’t Stop Me"
4. "Still Getting Younger"
5. "Til Death (Rocket Scientist Remix)"
6. "Buy My Love (Axwell Remix)"

Released in the US and UK on June 28th.

Source: WynterGordon.com

Hope its good. Some of her past songs are amazing. Others are meh.
Music Heaven

Kevin Rudolf on new music for Rihanna, Lil Wayne

2011-06-01T21:03:00.000-05:00

Some of music’s biggest names have come to Kevin Rudolf in search of their next hit. The Cash Money singer-producer reveals that Rihanna, Leona Lewis, and Lil Wayne are among those enlisting his services.

The “Let It Rock” hitmaker has been submitting material for the “S&M” singer’s sixth album. “[I'm] writing some stuff for Rihanna right now,” he told Rap-Up.com. “I hear she’s back at it.”

In addition to working on RiRi’s next project, he contributed to Lil Wayne’s long-awaited Carter IV. “Wayne records a lot of records and no one knows but Wayne until the very end what ends up on the album, but we did a couple things together that are pretty exciting,” he shared. “Wayne is actually one of the few artists that keeps getting better and better, so I’m just happy to be along for the ride and be part of Cash Money.”

And if that wasn’t enough to keep him busy, Rudolf has been in and out of the studio writing for Leona Lewis and B.o.B while recording a follow-up to his 2010 album To the Sky. “I’m working on a new album right now actually,” he said. “[I'm] in the midst of it, so we’re looking to drop a single probably in the next few months. I’m not gonna rush it, but definitely keep an eye out for it.”

Muaic Heaven

Selena Gomez & The Scene When The Sun Goes Down Tracklist

2011-05-31T18:23:00.001-05:00

"When The Sun Goes Down" is third studio album from Selena Gomez & The Scene. Universal confirmed the album had begun last February followed by the release of "Who Says" in March. The album was originally called "Otherside" but was changed for unknown reasons.

Album drops June 28th.

Tracklisting
1. Love You Like a Love Song
2. Bang Bang Bang
3. Who Says
4. We Own The Night
5. Hit The Lights
6. Whiplash
7. When The Sun Goes Down
8. My Dilemma
9. That's More Like It
10. Outlaw
11. Middle Of Nowhere
12. Dices ("Who Says" Spanish Version)

Can't wait. She has a really good voice. PS I am back from vacation.
Music Heaven

Fernando Garibay talks Paris Hilton, GaGa and and more

2011-05-31T18:22:00.001-05:00

Starting out at the mere age of sixteen years old, Fernando Garibay wasted no time curating a dominant career for himself in the music industry. Garibay first broke through by catching the eye of the millennium Latin-Pop scene, and worked with artists such as Mya and Enrique Iglesias. As the mid-2000s arrived, Garibay continously collaborated with Enrique Iglesias, and by the time 2006 hit, he created a memorable reggae-pop effort… Paris Hilton’s “Stars Are Blind.” In 2007, a newfound musical romance walked into his life, Lady GaGa. Together they made “Dance In The Dark,” one of GaGa’s most notable tracks (as well as the intro track for world renowned Monster Ball Tour) to date due to its combination of vampiric-chic vulnerability. Garibay is now taking on the lead of head-chief musical director alongside GaGa on 2011′s most anticipated pop record, “Born This Way.” It was completely necessary for me to call and chat about his views on millennium pop, the sacred writing process him and GaGa uphold, and who had dibs on “Stars Are Blind” first.

Alex Kazemi: You started producing music during the glory days of late 90s and early 2000s pop… Mya, Enrique, Marc Anthony, Beck… Latin pop, a bit. Do you feel that in 2005-2008 pop music took a switch from that pure-bubble gum pop, (Jessica Simpson, Britney, Spice Girls, N*SYNC) to a more electronic-techno based sound? Possibly music that fell into the genres of Dance, Techno and House in the 90s, could be considered what mainstream pop is like today?

Fernando Garibay: Yes, but actually before that I was putting out techno/house records. I was developing a bit of a name for myself doing underground records when I started getting calls from labels asking me to remix some pop stuff. Inadvertently, pop music was going through a bit of a Latin invasion at the time, which happened to coincide with my goal of proving to my Mexican family that I could actually succeed at this. I knew they wouldn’t know who Beck or Mya were, but they sure as hell know who Enrique Iglesias was. After the Latin invasion, I felt pop music migrated to a more urban phase in American pop radio and definitely a more electronic direction in the U.K. I liked both so my remixes and productions where directly inspired by a hybrid of those two elements.

Kazemi: How do you feel about the birth of millennium pop? N*SYNC, Spice Girls, what is known as “Classic Britney”, does that extravagant-pop songwriting/production stand out to you today?

Fernando: I grew up in South Central LA; there was nothing about Millennium pop I could relate to. All we listened to growing up in the hood was anything by Dr. Dre, hard techno records from Europe like Prodigy, and believe or not New Wave records from the likes of Depeche Mode and Duran Duran. I heard subtle Dr. Dre influences in the Max Martin productions of Britney and N*SYNC, which did perk my ears up. I am grateful we got great artists like Justin and Britney out of that period. Justin is always incredible, and everyone, including myself looks forward to the records he makes.

Kazemi: You were part of that pop-wave in a way, working with Mya as I mentioned before, remixed Ashlee Simpson and of-course Paris Hilton . Do you ever look back at how different the industry was then, such as how people were buying CDs or how music videos were religiously played on MTV? Do you think it was a healthier state, and easier to make music? [laughs] Do you understand the genius of “Stars Are Blind” in retrospect? It’s an amazing pop record; such a summer-reggae pop tune.

Fernando: Thank you. Well I always loved reggae, especially when paired with the imagery of paradise. That’s why I named my studio Paradise, by the way. I loved how British artists like The Police and Culture Club were infusing reggae with pop music in the 80s so I felt that I could attempt the bridge that gap again. Hence why “Star’s Are Blind” was born. It was originally written for Gwen Stefani, but as it turns out she decided not to release an album at that point in time. Next, I played it to Paris Hilton whom I met through mutual friends and that was it. To be honest with you, I do very much miss the album cover as an art form and the excitement of buying a CD, especially one that I worked on. But on the flip side, I do enjoy the convenience of my iTunes library. I try not to think of the former music industry too much, it’s kind of heart breaking. We had budgets back then, to make records and to develop artists. Even though I was still struggling to compete with multi-million dollar earning producers at the time, there was that optimism that you could possible write songs that could potentially change your life financially. In order to do that now, you need to be a lot more innovative, and you have to definitely work much harder in comparison. Funny, at the time I thought I couldn’t work any harder.

Kazemi: I could not agree more about the art form of buying a physical CD, the excitement was some type of natural high. In 2008, you worked with Britney Spears on “Amnesia,” which is very Britney, by the way. How did you come up with the concept?

Fernando: It was one of those songs that my songwriting friend Kasey Livingston and I came up with one evening after she asked me how my weekend was. My response was “I can’t remember,” her response, “that good huh? Amnesia.” As soon as I finished it, I sent it over to Teresa Labarbera Whites (Britney’s A&R) who asked for a record for Britney. She played it for her and we cut it two weeks later. That’s how I’ve always worked. I approach all my music as if I were scoring a movie about myself. I guess I have always seen music that way, as a soundtrack to my life… and hopefully everyone else’s.

Kazemi:When did “Quicksand” come up? Did you call GaGa up for some help? Was this around when you first got to know each other and were writing for other artists?

Fernando: “Quicksand” was one of the first songs Gaga and I wrote. We started working together right after she had just finished The Fame album with Red One. Gaga and I were both artists at Interscope and Jimmy Lovine had asked me to meet up with her at my studio. That same night in came a blonde girl in her underwear who would eventually change my life. Her and I were going through a bit of heartbreak in our lives and I was playing this piano motif right as she walked into my studio for the first time and she just started writing, “baby, because you and me are sinking like quicksand.”

Kazemi: I think basically after that, it was all up-hill! The second public Gaga-Fernando collaboration was “Dance In The Dark” off The Fame Monster, the concept behind the lyrics puts us in the eyes of someone who has sex in the dark and is ashamed on their body. But then again, someone else could interoperate it in a whole different way. Are these songs intentionally supposed to be puzzle pieces?

Fernando: It’s interesting how Gaga’s songs are very open for interpretation yet very specific. That is her true talent. It relates to everyone. It tells her story and your story all at the same time. And she is successful because it’s real, it is who she is, and it is who we are at times.

Kazemi: Do you like the CeCe Peniston mix of “Dance In The Dark” from The Monster Ball Tour? Did you have to approve it before it became the introduction to the concert?

Fernando: That was an edit for The Monster Ball. It’s perfect, approved!

Kazemi: Why didn’t “No Way” make The Fame Monster? How do you feel about the whole leak culture spreading different information and often leaving everyone confused? Was it ever finished?

Fernando: Gaga is holding onto “No Way” at moment and saving it for something special. No, that was a demo that leaked, unfortunately. Leaks are not my favorite thing in the world. It’s like showing the world a sketch of a painting for people to judge as the masterpiece.

Kazemi: When did the Born This Way sessions begin? Was it a particular night? Did GaGa just call you up and ask to work on the second album or was it more complicated?

Fernando: It was more like she called me and said “I have this song I just wrote and I want to play it for you.” Two hours later I was on a flight to Australia. She’s super spontaneous like that; I just go with the flow and try to capture every moment of her creativity to tape, so to speak. I guess you can say that’s how my role of Music Supervisor for the Born This Way album came to fruition. Before I knew it I was traveling the world producing the album with her.

Kazemi: You wrote most of the record on the road, right?

Fernando: That is correct. The whole album was done on the road. From the American leg, to the European leg, and back… we recorded it all along in a bus with a purpose-built studio in it. We recorded with laptops backstage in her dressing room, in her hotel room, you name it. That’s how we were able to get it done in the middle of a worldwide tour.

Kazemi: Could you explain how your writing/creative process coincides with her many influences/inspirations? Do they go hand in hand? You co-wrote almost every song on the album.

Fernando: Well most of the time she’d come in with completed songs, so my job was to facilitate in executing her vision. Sometimes she heard a song in various forms, i.e. a rock version, a techno version, a full electro version, so we had to do many revisions of a song to get to a point that made sense for her. I’ll never forget the way she would describe the way she wanted her records to be like… sometimes she would dance it out for us, other times she’d describe an emotion or give us a visual, and many times she would flat out program the parts. Insane, right? Who does that?

Kazemi: [laughs] Only GaGa, only GaGa! When you released “Born This Way” a lot of “in the know” publications named it as a carbon copy of Madonna’s “Express Yourself”. Did it just end up sounding like that? Do you have anything to address? It is a common-found disco chord progression though, if we put all of the passé “comparisons” bullshit to the side.

Fernando: We take any comparisons to Madonna as a compliment. We are all big fans of her. One of my favorite songs is “La Isla Bonita.”

Kazemi: [laughs] In the studio, what is a natural session like with GaGa? How does a song like “Marry The Night” happen?

Fernando: “Marry The Night” was inspired by two things. For her, it is her metaphoric husband that is New York; for me, I was just trying to outdo the feeling I got when I first saw “Dance In The Dark” performed live as the opening number for the Monster Ball. It was the look on the audiences’ faces the minute that intro started; it was like I saw her for the first time and she was bigger than life. I felt like the audience was going to church, as if they were having a religious experience. I just kept hearing church bells in my head. It’s strange how her and I were so on the same page; upon hearing the track she instantly made to correlation with it being ceremonious and still dark. She looked at me, pointed, and sang, “I’m going to marry the night, I won’t give up on my life…”

Kazemi: Was “Marry The Night” an experiment at all? I’ve noticed the mix of 80s hair-band based choruses over massive pop beats pattern throughout the album worked out really well; was this intentional or unintentional?

Fernando: It was no experiment; she knew exactly what the vision was. That never wavered.

Kazemi: The obscure melodies overpower some of the huge pop production at times through the record; would you agree?

I wouldn’t say it’s the obscure melodies, I would say it’s the power of her songwriting that stands out. And that right there is what a good production should be; it should highlight the song, not the tricks. Anyone with Ableton and a laptop can do tricks; the magic is in the song… that’s where it counts. The rest is fashion, and we do have a good fashion sense I think.

Kazemi: Was it a strange feeling knowing that you were producing an album that was self-proclaimingly aimed as the album of the decade? Did that add any pressure to the job?

Fernando: Pressure? No pressure! It’s not like… I was asked to be responsible for executing the vision of the most influential woman on the planet… All joking aside, once I was over the initial shock of being asked to oversee the album, I quickly got into soldier mode and committed to a mindset that we were not going to fail, no matter what.

Kazemi: [laughs] “Heavy Metal Lover” is, without a doubt, the production highlight on the album. The rave essence of it, the manic vocal shreds, and all the smutty talk makes it an incredible pop track. If “Heavy Metal Lover” were to get on the radio, it would change the state of pop music and open a lot of doors for Top40 artists. Would you say that you and GaGa have created control with pop music, changing it for the better?

Fernando: Wow, you think so! I’m flattered!, but I really think a lot of the songs on this album could potentially have that power, from “Marry The Night” to “Bloody Mary” to “Americano.”

Kazemi: I honestly do believe that..When GaGa cut “Heavy Metal Lover” were you like, “whoa… what have I done? Did I really just make that?” Does she inspire you to make productions like you’ve never before?

Fernando: I just go for it! She would expect nothing less.

Kazemi: I’m sure other artists other than GaGa want to work with you. .

Fernando: Yeah.

Kazemi: You are always going to be a bit more involved with GaGa. How do you create balance? Will an outside artist be getting a more toned down product? Are those productions only as amazing as they are because you and Gaga have such incredible chemistry?

Fernando: I’m passionate about every record I do with whatever artist I work with. I try to take myself and my biases out of the equation for the sake of the artist’s vision I’m working with. I’ll go as far or hard as an artist would like me to go; I see myself as a catalyst for their artistry. Gaga is a producer; I make records with her, and that’s why our records will always sound like Gaga records. She’s not part of the equation, she is the equation.

source: http://alexkazemi.com/2011/05/fernando-garibay/

Gaga sells over 1 Million plus copies!

2011-05-31T18:20:00.001-05:00

http://gagadaily.com/2011/05/born-this-way-debuts/

Quote:
Lady Gaga has earned her first number one album in the United States. The freshly-released Born This Way debuts atop the Billboard 200 with more than 1,110,000 copies sold in its first week, outselling the rest of the top 20 combined.

Born This Way scores the biggest first-week sales since 50 Cent’s The Massacre (2005) and becomes only the ninth fastest-selling album in the U.S. ever. What makes Lady Gaga’s achievement even more impressive is the fact that album sales have decreased 65% over the last ten years. With sales going down year after year, do you think Gaga will be able to deliver another 1 million opening week with her next record? Let us know in the comments below!

It should be noted that least 300k copies came from Amazon’s promotion, which made Born This Way available for just 99 cents to draw interest in the company’s new cloud service. However, Lady Gaga’s manager Troy Carter does not view the deal as a chart manipulation, but rather as an opportunity to get more fans listen to the music legally. “Although we weren’t aware of Amazon’s deal, I applaud them for their efforts,” he said. “Anytime we can get people to purchase music legally, it’s a good thing for the business.”

Born This Way has also made its debut at number one on official charts in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Crap. That is very impressive.
Music Heaven