Family & Friends Say Goodbye To Michael Jackson
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Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Dave Grohl, Josh Homme, John Paul Jones Unveil Supergroup
Them Crooked Vultures make their debut with a post-Lollapalooza set.By James Montgomery
Dave Grohl (file)
Photo: Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images
Officially, Lollapalooza ended Sunday night in Chicago's Grant Park, with dueling sets from the Killers and Jane's Addiction. Unofficially, it ended very early Monday morning, across town at venerable rock club the Metro, with a surprise show by Them Crooked Vultures.
To the unfamiliar, the Vultures might seem like an odd choice to close out Lolla weekend ... until you realize that they're made up of Foo Fighters frontman/ former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, Queens of the Stone Age mastermind Josh Homme and Led Zeppelin legend John Paul Jones. And their gig at the Metro was their world premiere.
According to some reports, the Vultures actually turned down Lollapalooza founder Perry Farrell's request to replace the Beastie Boys as headliners at the festival, opting to debut in front of some 1,100 super-psyched fans at the Metro, rather than 75,000 in Grant Park (tickets for the gig were announced via Foo Fighter/ QOTSA fan clubs). Meaning that, in a lot of ways, this was the most sought-after ticket in town.
Taking the stage just after midnight, the Vultures — Grohl on drums (of course), Homme on guitar and vocals, Jones on bass and keys and frequent QOTSA contributor Alain Johannes on guitar — ripped through 12 songs in 80 minutes, all taken from their upcoming debut, which may or may not be called Never Deserved the Future, and may or may not be hitting stores on October 23 (early "promo" videos touting both those facts were revealed over the weekend to be hoaxes perpetrated by QOTSA fans).
The songs, with appropriately Homme-ian titles like "Scumbag Blues," "Mind Eraser (No Chaser)," "Caligulove" and "Interlude w/Ludes," sounded pretty much how you'd expect, given the band's pedigree. They rocked, hard — Chicago Tribune critic Greg Kot described them as "fresh, invigorating and just plain nasty" — delving off into psychedelic, reverb-filled excursions and exploring proggy territory, "both of the old-school Yes variety, and the more modern Tool flavor," according to the Chicago Sun-Times' Jim DeRogatis.
It's not known if Monday's Metro performance was a one-off event for the Vultures — there have been whispers of a full-blown tour, but a spokesperson for Homme had not responded to MTV News' request for comment at press time. Nor was it clear whether or not they'll have an album out in October.
Early Monday, a Crooked Vultures Twitter account, which had previously posted links to the band's official-looking Web site and the Metro's online ticketing site — posted a link to what appears to be the group's first bit of official merchandise: a Deserve the Future T-shirt. Cost: $30.
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Dave Grohl (file)
Photo: Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images
Officially, Lollapalooza ended Sunday night in Chicago's Grant Park, with dueling sets from the Killers and Jane's Addiction. Unofficially, it ended very early Monday morning, across town at venerable rock club the Metro, with a surprise show by Them Crooked Vultures.
To the unfamiliar, the Vultures might seem like an odd choice to close out Lolla weekend ... until you realize that they're made up of Foo Fighters frontman/ former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, Queens of the Stone Age mastermind Josh Homme and Led Zeppelin legend John Paul Jones. And their gig at the Metro was their world premiere.
According to some reports, the Vultures actually turned down Lollapalooza founder Perry Farrell's request to replace the Beastie Boys as headliners at the festival, opting to debut in front of some 1,100 super-psyched fans at the Metro, rather than 75,000 in Grant Park (tickets for the gig were announced via Foo Fighter/ QOTSA fan clubs). Meaning that, in a lot of ways, this was the most sought-after ticket in town.
Taking the stage just after midnight, the Vultures — Grohl on drums (of course), Homme on guitar and vocals, Jones on bass and keys and frequent QOTSA contributor Alain Johannes on guitar — ripped through 12 songs in 80 minutes, all taken from their upcoming debut, which may or may not be called Never Deserved the Future, and may or may not be hitting stores on October 23 (early "promo" videos touting both those facts were revealed over the weekend to be hoaxes perpetrated by QOTSA fans).
The songs, with appropriately Homme-ian titles like "Scumbag Blues," "Mind Eraser (No Chaser)," "Caligulove" and "Interlude w/Ludes," sounded pretty much how you'd expect, given the band's pedigree. They rocked, hard — Chicago Tribune critic Greg Kot described them as "fresh, invigorating and just plain nasty" — delving off into psychedelic, reverb-filled excursions and exploring proggy territory, "both of the old-school Yes variety, and the more modern Tool flavor," according to the Chicago Sun-Times' Jim DeRogatis.
It's not known if Monday's Metro performance was a one-off event for the Vultures — there have been whispers of a full-blown tour, but a spokesperson for Homme had not responded to MTV News' request for comment at press time. Nor was it clear whether or not they'll have an album out in October.
Early Monday, a Crooked Vultures Twitter account, which had previously posted links to the band's official-looking Web site and the Metro's online ticketing site — posted a link to what appears to be the group's first bit of official merchandise: a Deserve the Future T-shirt. Cost: $30.
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?Burlesque? Releases A First Movie Poster
Back in April we got to see some behind the scenes video from the set of the new film Burlesque, which will be Christina Aguilera‘s feature film debut. In July we got our first look at the first official promo images released for the film. Today we get to check out the just released first [...]
Britney Spears - Gimme More
Gimme More
Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive/Zomba Label Group
Director: Jake Sarfaty
Album: Blackout
Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive/Zomba Label Group
Director: Jake Sarfaty
Album: Blackout
Jennie Finch Jennifer Aniston Jennifer Gareis Jennifer Garner
'Dancing With The Stars' Carries On Tradition Of Casting MTV Stars
New castmembers the Situation and Audrina Patridge join the ranks of Steve-O, Kelly Osbourne and Drew Lachey.By Kyle Anderson
Lacey Schwimmer and Steve-O
Photo: ABC
When the new season of ABC's hit competition show "Dancing With the Stars" kicks off on September 20, it will feature two names from the MTV family: "Jersey Shore" breakout star Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino and "The Hills" head-turner Audrina Patridge. The two will compete against the likes of David Hasselhoff, Brandy, former NBA star Rick Fox, Michael Bolton, Bristol Palin, former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner, Disney star Kyle Massey, "Brady Bunch" star Florence Henderson, comedian Margaret Cho and "Dirty Dancing" legend Jennifer Grey.
While we won't know how Patridge or the Situation will fair until the first step is executed when the show premieres in three weeks, they both have a lot to live up to. MTV stars repeatedly show up as castmembers on "Dancing With the Stars," and while their level of success has been mixed, they always leave an impression.
One of them even won once. Drew Lachey, the former member of 98 Degrees and a staple on the hit MTV reality show "Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica," took home the mirror-ball trophy back in February of 2006. In the finals, Lachey narrowly beat out Jerry Rice (the former NFL wide receiver and a big fan favorite) and Stacy Keibler (a former WWE performer who has a bit of MTV history of her own — she appeared on the wrestling promotion's "Heat" show on MTV at the beginning of the decade).
Another MTV reality star had significantly less success. Shanna Moakler, one of the stars of the MTV series "Meet the Barkers," appeared on the show in the fall of 2006. "Meet the Barkers" followed the lives of Moakler and her husband, Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, along with their three children. While Moakler's wardrobe certainly kept her in the minds of people watching "Meet the Barkers," she didn't leave the same kind of impression on the "Dancing With the Stars" viewers and judges, as she was sent home during the second week of competition.
Kelly Osbourne fared significantly better. Though she struggled early in the fall 2009 season, the breakout star of "The Osbournes" ended up becoming one of the better narratives of the season, as she overcame injuries and rough treatment from the judges to become a pretty excellent dancer. She performed well in the finals against Mya and eventual winner Donny Osmond.
Steve-O also became something of a dark horse during his run on the show. The "Jackass" featured player quickly became a favorite among fans of the show, and he outlasted the likes of Playboy model Holly Madison, actress Denise Richards and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. Steve-O ended up finishing in eighth place, a strong showing for a guy who has made his living hurting himself.
And even though he got knocked out during the second week of the competition, you can't overlook Buzz Aldrin's impact on "Dancing With the Stars." Though Aldrin is certainly best known for his accomplishments in the space program, he is perhaps the ultimate MTV star, as he was the model for the Moonman, the prize that winners take home at the Video Music Awards. Aldrin nabbed some of the lowest scores in the history of the show, but he did it with a great deal of charm.
How do you think Audrina and the Situation will fare on "Dancing With the Stars"? Let us know your predictions in the comments!
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'Dancing With The Stars' Season 11 Cast Revealed!
Lacey Schwimmer and Steve-O
Photo: ABC
When the new season of ABC's hit competition show "Dancing With the Stars" kicks off on September 20, it will feature two names from the MTV family: "Jersey Shore" breakout star Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino and "The Hills" head-turner Audrina Patridge. The two will compete against the likes of David Hasselhoff, Brandy, former NBA star Rick Fox, Michael Bolton, Bristol Palin, former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner, Disney star Kyle Massey, "Brady Bunch" star Florence Henderson, comedian Margaret Cho and "Dirty Dancing" legend Jennifer Grey.
While we won't know how Patridge or the Situation will fair until the first step is executed when the show premieres in three weeks, they both have a lot to live up to. MTV stars repeatedly show up as castmembers on "Dancing With the Stars," and while their level of success has been mixed, they always leave an impression.
One of them even won once. Drew Lachey, the former member of 98 Degrees and a staple on the hit MTV reality show "Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica," took home the mirror-ball trophy back in February of 2006. In the finals, Lachey narrowly beat out Jerry Rice (the former NFL wide receiver and a big fan favorite) and Stacy Keibler (a former WWE performer who has a bit of MTV history of her own — she appeared on the wrestling promotion's "Heat" show on MTV at the beginning of the decade).
Another MTV reality star had significantly less success. Shanna Moakler, one of the stars of the MTV series "Meet the Barkers," appeared on the show in the fall of 2006. "Meet the Barkers" followed the lives of Moakler and her husband, Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, along with their three children. While Moakler's wardrobe certainly kept her in the minds of people watching "Meet the Barkers," she didn't leave the same kind of impression on the "Dancing With the Stars" viewers and judges, as she was sent home during the second week of competition.
Kelly Osbourne fared significantly better. Though she struggled early in the fall 2009 season, the breakout star of "The Osbournes" ended up becoming one of the better narratives of the season, as she overcame injuries and rough treatment from the judges to become a pretty excellent dancer. She performed well in the finals against Mya and eventual winner Donny Osmond.
Steve-O also became something of a dark horse during his run on the show. The "Jackass" featured player quickly became a favorite among fans of the show, and he outlasted the likes of Playboy model Holly Madison, actress Denise Richards and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. Steve-O ended up finishing in eighth place, a strong showing for a guy who has made his living hurting himself.
And even though he got knocked out during the second week of the competition, you can't overlook Buzz Aldrin's impact on "Dancing With the Stars." Though Aldrin is certainly best known for his accomplishments in the space program, he is perhaps the ultimate MTV star, as he was the model for the Moonman, the prize that winners take home at the Video Music Awards. Aldrin nabbed some of the lowest scores in the history of the show, but he did it with a great deal of charm.
How do you think Audrina and the Situation will fare on "Dancing With the Stars"? Let us know your predictions in the comments!
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Other MTV Stars Who Should Be On 'Dancing With The Stars'
'Dancing With The Stars' Season 11 Cast Revealed!
'Black August' Screening Draws Chris Rock, Talib Kweli, More
Veteran journalist Dream Hampton spotlights benefit concert for political prisoners.By Jayson Rodriguez
Talib Kweli (file)
Photo: Al Pereira/WireImage
NEW YORK — Chris Rock, Talib Kweli and Dead Prez's M-1 were among the attendees of veteran journalist Dream Hampton's screening Thursday night for her documentary "Black August: A Hip-Hop Benefit Concert."
The event, held at Lincoln Center's Walter Reade Theater, showcased the yearly tribute concert that has hosted performers such as Erykah Badu, Mos Def, Common, Dead Prez and David Banner in New York and South Africa.
In her film, Hampton features concert footage and interviews with a slew of activists.
The Malcolm X Grassroots Movement in Brooklyn powers the concerts each year, and in her doc, Hampton seeks to spotlight issues like police brutality and racial injustice. The concert series and the film seek to address awareness about political prisoners, including Mutulu Shakur, the stepfather of late rap star Tupac Shakur.
"I think the cause of political prisoners in the hip-hop community wouldn't be as relevant in the hip-hop community as it is if it wasn't for [the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement]," Kweli says in the film. "And it certainly has a long way to go from 10 years ago, and I think it's more relevant. The bridges that we build in South Africa and Cuba are important. Every year, the show is bigger and better and grander."
Hampton, who has written about hip-hop and culture for The Source and Vibe magazines, among other publications, has labored over the project for years and is finally set to release the project by the end of the year.
The event was sponsored by ImageNation and hosted by M-1.
Are you looking forward to the Black August film? Let us know in the comments!
Related Artists
Talib Kweli
Talib Kweli (file)
Photo: Al Pereira/WireImage
NEW YORK — Chris Rock, Talib Kweli and Dead Prez's M-1 were among the attendees of veteran journalist Dream Hampton's screening Thursday night for her documentary "Black August: A Hip-Hop Benefit Concert."
The event, held at Lincoln Center's Walter Reade Theater, showcased the yearly tribute concert that has hosted performers such as Erykah Badu, Mos Def, Common, Dead Prez and David Banner in New York and South Africa.
In her film, Hampton features concert footage and interviews with a slew of activists.
The Malcolm X Grassroots Movement in Brooklyn powers the concerts each year, and in her doc, Hampton seeks to spotlight issues like police brutality and racial injustice. The concert series and the film seek to address awareness about political prisoners, including Mutulu Shakur, the stepfather of late rap star Tupac Shakur.
"I think the cause of political prisoners in the hip-hop community wouldn't be as relevant in the hip-hop community as it is if it wasn't for [the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement]," Kweli says in the film. "And it certainly has a long way to go from 10 years ago, and I think it's more relevant. The bridges that we build in South Africa and Cuba are important. Every year, the show is bigger and better and grander."
Hampton, who has written about hip-hop and culture for The Source and Vibe magazines, among other publications, has labored over the project for years and is finally set to release the project by the end of the year.
The event was sponsored by ImageNation and hosted by M-1.
Are you looking forward to the Black August film? Let us know in the comments!
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Talib Kweli
Photos | New York's 2010 Summer Jam Lineup
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Sandra Bullock Shares Love For New Orleans On 'Today'
Actress talked about son Louis' hometown and the school she helped rebuild.By Gil Kaufman
Sandra Bullock on the "Today" show Tuesday
Photo: NBC
Much has been made about Oscar winner Sandra Bullock's ties to the college town of Austin, Texas, where the star has retreated to avoid the paparazzi's glare since her divorce from Jesse James. But on Tuesday (August 31), Bullock appeared on the "Today" show to discuss her love for New Orleans, where she has found another home.
Bullock, in her first televised interview since her split with James, told host Matt Lauer that the Big Easy has always been a comfortable place for her, somewhere she has gone often to visit, ring in the new year and most recently, the place where she finalized her adoption of son Louis.
But the reason she was there this week was to celebrate the successful rebuilding of the Warren Easton Charter High School, which suffered more than $4 million in damage five years ago this week during Hurricane Katrina. She sat next to Arthur Hardy, a New Orleans Mardi Gras expert and Easton board member, who said he laughed when Bullock called with an offer to help help, thinking someone was pulling his leg.
"She found us ... [and] called me on a Sunday afternoon," he said, laughing.
"I like to cold-call people, people who I think are outstanding community members ... how you doin'?" Bullock joked.
Hardy said because he's in the Mardi Gras business, "I deal with crazy people every day. So when she said, 'This is Sandra Bullock,' I said, 'This is Clark Gable,' and I was about to hang up."
Hardy said once Bullock met the kids of the school, it cemented her decision to help out however she could.
Bullock helped raise funds to rebuild the school, which has its own health clinic and close to a 100 percent graduation rate, and she spoke about how Katrina exposed the cracks in New Orleans society around the issue of poverty. "It opened up something that I don't think people knew about or maybe didn't want to see," she said. "But right here under this roof, there are souls and spirits and young people who don't come from any money but carry this extraordinary spirit to override that, suck in every ounce of education that the school provides and get out of here and create a life for them that is beautiful and fulfilling ... let this school be an example of how we don't need to leave anyone behind."
With her adoption of Nola-born Louie, whom she calls her "little Cajun cookie," finalized, Bullock explained the relief she felt to finally have him all to herself. "It felt like it was time," she said of the long process of adoption, noting that she did not cut any corners or ask for favors based on her fame. "It was nice to have someone say, 'I think you're a fit parent.' "
She also talked about his "healthy" poop schedules, the shift in priorities a child brings to a parent's life and the secret of how she kept Louie's adoption, well, a secret. "It takes good people with integrity," she said, explaining how she was able to hide the bombshell from the prying press even as she was basking in an Oscar win for "The Blind Side."
"Human beings exist that have integrity, that know how to keep their mouth shut. That know the bigger picture, that don't sell out their friends," she said. "Everything passes, they know if they screw up, they're not coming up on the next vacation, I'm not gonna babysit their kids ... I will cut them. I will take them down ... I have friends and family that are filled with massive amounts of integrity. It shouldn't be an oddity."
Though Jesse James and the divorce did not come up and Lauer kept the questions mostly benign, Bullock pointedly used the word "integrity" several times in the interview, perhaps as a not-so-coded statement on her feelings of betrayal in the messy divorce caused by James' multiple infidelities.
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Sandra Bullock on the "Today" show Tuesday
Photo: NBC
Much has been made about Oscar winner Sandra Bullock's ties to the college town of Austin, Texas, where the star has retreated to avoid the paparazzi's glare since her divorce from Jesse James. But on Tuesday (August 31), Bullock appeared on the "Today" show to discuss her love for New Orleans, where she has found another home.
Bullock, in her first televised interview since her split with James, told host Matt Lauer that the Big Easy has always been a comfortable place for her, somewhere she has gone often to visit, ring in the new year and most recently, the place where she finalized her adoption of son Louis.
But the reason she was there this week was to celebrate the successful rebuilding of the Warren Easton Charter High School, which suffered more than $4 million in damage five years ago this week during Hurricane Katrina. She sat next to Arthur Hardy, a New Orleans Mardi Gras expert and Easton board member, who said he laughed when Bullock called with an offer to help help, thinking someone was pulling his leg.
"She found us ... [and] called me on a Sunday afternoon," he said, laughing.
"I like to cold-call people, people who I think are outstanding community members ... how you doin'?" Bullock joked.
Hardy said because he's in the Mardi Gras business, "I deal with crazy people every day. So when she said, 'This is Sandra Bullock,' I said, 'This is Clark Gable,' and I was about to hang up."
Hardy said once Bullock met the kids of the school, it cemented her decision to help out however she could.
Bullock helped raise funds to rebuild the school, which has its own health clinic and close to a 100 percent graduation rate, and she spoke about how Katrina exposed the cracks in New Orleans society around the issue of poverty. "It opened up something that I don't think people knew about or maybe didn't want to see," she said. "But right here under this roof, there are souls and spirits and young people who don't come from any money but carry this extraordinary spirit to override that, suck in every ounce of education that the school provides and get out of here and create a life for them that is beautiful and fulfilling ... let this school be an example of how we don't need to leave anyone behind."
With her adoption of Nola-born Louie, whom she calls her "little Cajun cookie," finalized, Bullock explained the relief she felt to finally have him all to herself. "It felt like it was time," she said of the long process of adoption, noting that she did not cut any corners or ask for favors based on her fame. "It was nice to have someone say, 'I think you're a fit parent.' "
She also talked about his "healthy" poop schedules, the shift in priorities a child brings to a parent's life and the secret of how she kept Louie's adoption, well, a secret. "It takes good people with integrity," she said, explaining how she was able to hide the bombshell from the prying press even as she was basking in an Oscar win for "The Blind Side."
"Human beings exist that have integrity, that know how to keep their mouth shut. That know the bigger picture, that don't sell out their friends," she said. "Everything passes, they know if they screw up, they're not coming up on the next vacation, I'm not gonna babysit their kids ... I will cut them. I will take them down ... I have friends and family that are filled with massive amounts of integrity. It shouldn't be an oddity."
Though Jesse James and the divorce did not come up and Lauer kept the questions mostly benign, Bullock pointedly used the word "integrity" several times in the interview, perhaps as a not-so-coded statement on her feelings of betrayal in the messy divorce caused by James' multiple infidelities.
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Usher Has A History On The VMA Stage
Singer will perform — and is up for three Moonmen — at the big show, airing live Sunday, September 12.By Jocelyn Vena
Usher at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards
Photo: Alberto Tamargo/Getty Images
Usher will certainly have fans saying "OMG" when he hits the stage at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, but it isn't the first time he's had VMA viewers shouting his lyrics.
The R&B superstar got his first taste of what it was like to perform at the VMAs in Los Angeles in 1998 when he played the pre-show, taking the stage in a leather, graffiti-print jacket and leather tuxedo pants. Usher's performance back then was incredibly low-fi, having only a few dancers behind him dressed like the ones in his "My Way" clip, which was nominated for a VMA that year.
Usher at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards
Photo: Alberto Tamargo/Getty Images
Usher will certainly have fans saying "OMG" when he hits the stage at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, but it isn't the first time he's had VMA viewers shouting his lyrics.
The R&B superstar got his first taste of what it was like to perform at the VMAs in Los Angeles in 1998 when he played the pre-show, taking the stage in a leather, graffiti-print jacket and leather tuxedo pants. Usher's performance back then was incredibly low-fi, having only a few dancers behind him dressed like the ones in his "My Way" clip, which was nominated for a VMA that year.
Beyoncé - Halo
Halo
Artist: Beyoncé
Label: Columbia, Music World Music
Director: Philip Andelman
Album: I Am... Sasha Fierce
Artist: Beyoncé
Label: Columbia, Music World Music
Director: Philip Andelman
Album: I Am... Sasha Fierce
Robert Plant And Alison Krauss Win Grammy Album Of The Year
Raising Sand, from Led Zeppelin vet and bluegrass superstar, wins five Grammys on Sunday night.By James Montgomery with MTV News staff
Alison Krauss and Robert Plant accept the award for Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards on Sunday
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
"I'm bewildered," Robert Plant said onstage as he accepted the Grammy Album of the Year award with Alison Krauss on Sunday night. "In the old days we would have called this selling out, but it's a good way to spend a Sunday."
He was probably one of the few who were surprised, because Raising Sand, which won five trophies at Sunday night's show, is in many ways the perfect Grammy album. It features two respected veterans, a critically lauded producer, some sandpaper-and-velvet vocals and a baker's dozen of time-tested standards.
You're probably familiar with Robert Plant from his Led Zeppelin days, and you might be aware of producer T-Bone Burnett's work on the "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack (it won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2002). And if you don't know who Alison Krauss is, she possesses a haunting set of pipes and is one of the meanest fiddle players in the world. Oh, and she's won 21 Grammys, more than any other female artist and the seventh-most in history.
Really, she's the key to Sand's success, and not just because of her voice (or her fiddle playing). She and Plant first met in 2004, at a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame tribute to legendary bluesman Leadbelly, and the former Zeppelin man was amazed by her knowledge of American Roots music — so much so that they began kicking around the idea of recording an album together. Three years later, Sand was released.
And while Plant possesses the more famous voice, the album's finest moments radiate from Krauss. Whether she's getting bluesy on Little Milton's "Let Your Loss Be Your Lesson" or entwining with Plant's husky voice on songs like "Please Read the Letter" and Roly Salley's winsome "Killing the Blues," she more than carries her end of the bargain.
And perhaps that's also due to producer Burnett, who handpicked the 13 songs the duo cover on Sand. His arrangements are sparse — giving the two voices ample room to breathe — yet dense, warm and crackling at the same time. It's a testament to his work that he's often given just as much billing as Plant and Krauss on the project ... and it's certainly justified.
To date, Sand has sold more than 1 million copies, heaped tons of acclaim and actually earned a Grammy last year — "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" took home the award for Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals.
One expert was surprised not by the album's success, but by the fact that it's actually quite a good album.
"At first, the album seemed like a vanity project. ... Two names, clearly a one-off record, didn't have to be any good, you know?" New York Times music critic Jon Caramanica said. "Led Zeppelin fans would buy it because of Robert Plant, Alison Krauss would get a check. But it actually turned out to be a really thoughtful, really good record. So when you combine all that with the fact that the Grammys love to lionize one of their own, I could really see it taking home some awards."
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Alison Krauss and Robert Plant accept the award for Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards on Sunday
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
"I'm bewildered," Robert Plant said onstage as he accepted the Grammy Album of the Year award with Alison Krauss on Sunday night. "In the old days we would have called this selling out, but it's a good way to spend a Sunday."
He was probably one of the few who were surprised, because Raising Sand, which won five trophies at Sunday night's show, is in many ways the perfect Grammy album. It features two respected veterans, a critically lauded producer, some sandpaper-and-velvet vocals and a baker's dozen of time-tested standards.
You're probably familiar with Robert Plant from his Led Zeppelin days, and you might be aware of producer T-Bone Burnett's work on the "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack (it won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2002). And if you don't know who Alison Krauss is, she possesses a haunting set of pipes and is one of the meanest fiddle players in the world. Oh, and she's won 21 Grammys, more than any other female artist and the seventh-most in history.
Really, she's the key to Sand's success, and not just because of her voice (or her fiddle playing). She and Plant first met in 2004, at a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame tribute to legendary bluesman Leadbelly, and the former Zeppelin man was amazed by her knowledge of American Roots music — so much so that they began kicking around the idea of recording an album together. Three years later, Sand was released.
And while Plant possesses the more famous voice, the album's finest moments radiate from Krauss. Whether she's getting bluesy on Little Milton's "Let Your Loss Be Your Lesson" or entwining with Plant's husky voice on songs like "Please Read the Letter" and Roly Salley's winsome "Killing the Blues," she more than carries her end of the bargain.
And perhaps that's also due to producer Burnett, who handpicked the 13 songs the duo cover on Sand. His arrangements are sparse — giving the two voices ample room to breathe — yet dense, warm and crackling at the same time. It's a testament to his work that he's often given just as much billing as Plant and Krauss on the project ... and it's certainly justified.
To date, Sand has sold more than 1 million copies, heaped tons of acclaim and actually earned a Grammy last year — "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" took home the award for Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals.
One expert was surprised not by the album's success, but by the fact that it's actually quite a good album.
"At first, the album seemed like a vanity project. ... Two names, clearly a one-off record, didn't have to be any good, you know?" New York Times music critic Jon Caramanica said. "Led Zeppelin fans would buy it because of Robert Plant, Alison Krauss would get a check. But it actually turned out to be a really thoughtful, really good record. So when you combine all that with the fact that the Grammys love to lionize one of their own, I could really see it taking home some awards."
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Photos | 'Michael Jackson's This Is It' Premieres In Los Angeles
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Monday, August 30, 2010
Britney Spears - Radar
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Artist: Britney Spears
Label: RCA, Jive, Zomba Label Group
Director: Dave Meyers
Album: Circus
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Label: RCA, Jive, Zomba Label Group
Director: Dave Meyers
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Tom Hanks Calls Sandra Bullock 'A Magnificent Actress'
Actor says he is 'lucky' to work with his 'Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close' co-star.By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Kara Warner
Tom Hanks at the HBO Emmy afterparty on Sunday
Photo: Jason LaVeris/ FilmMagic
Tom Hanks is very excited to get work started on the film adaptation of Jonathan Safran Foer's second novel, "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close." Why? Well, aside from the story — which follows a 9-year-old boy in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks — he can't wait to work with fellow Oscar-winner Sandra Bullock.
"Well, I have left a voicemail for Sandra ... Sandy. Can I call her Sandy? I can call her Sandy. I think she called the office back, but I hope to talk to her very, very, very soon," the Emmy-winning Hanks told MTV News at the HBO Emmy afterparty. "The story is magnificent. Eric Roth wrote a brilliant screenplay, which makes our lives very easy because you just read it and you say, 'I would be honored to be a part of this.' "
Although he isn't a close friend of Bullock, he does admire her work. "I am a huge Sandra Bullock fan. I've only met her a couple of times. She is a magnificent actress," he raved. "And every time we've seen her, even just as recently as 'The Proposal' and 'The Blind Side,' we've thought, 'We'd be lucky to work with her.' "
"Extremely Loud" is focused on a New York boy whose father was killed in the 9/11 attacks. The boy finds a key that belonged to his dad, but he doesn't know what it unlocks; the plot follows his attempt to answer that question. Foer's book employs an untraditional writing style that incorporates multiple interconnected story lines, photographs and the like.
The rights to the novel were first acquired several years ago. Scott Rudin is producing and Stephen Daldry ("The Hours") is attached to direct, with a script from "Forrest Gump" writer Eric Roth. Warner Bros. is the lead studio on the project.
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Tom Hanks at the HBO Emmy afterparty on Sunday
Photo: Jason LaVeris/ FilmMagic
Tom Hanks is very excited to get work started on the film adaptation of Jonathan Safran Foer's second novel, "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close." Why? Well, aside from the story — which follows a 9-year-old boy in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks — he can't wait to work with fellow Oscar-winner Sandra Bullock.
"Well, I have left a voicemail for Sandra ... Sandy. Can I call her Sandy? I can call her Sandy. I think she called the office back, but I hope to talk to her very, very, very soon," the Emmy-winning Hanks told MTV News at the HBO Emmy afterparty. "The story is magnificent. Eric Roth wrote a brilliant screenplay, which makes our lives very easy because you just read it and you say, 'I would be honored to be a part of this.' "
Although he isn't a close friend of Bullock, he does admire her work. "I am a huge Sandra Bullock fan. I've only met her a couple of times. She is a magnificent actress," he raved. "And every time we've seen her, even just as recently as 'The Proposal' and 'The Blind Side,' we've thought, 'We'd be lucky to work with her.' "
"Extremely Loud" is focused on a New York boy whose father was killed in the 9/11 attacks. The boy finds a key that belonged to his dad, but he doesn't know what it unlocks; the plot follows his attempt to answer that question. Foer's book employs an untraditional writing style that incorporates multiple interconnected story lines, photographs and the like.
The rights to the novel were first acquired several years ago. Scott Rudin is producing and Stephen Daldry ("The Hours") is attached to direct, with a script from "Forrest Gump" writer Eric Roth. Warner Bros. is the lead studio on the project.
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Did Drake and Nicki Minaj Get Married?
Did hip hop label-mates Drake and Nicki Minaj get hitched? Although the news isn't confirmed, the two tweeted each other Friday suggesting that they have tied the knot. Drake, chart-topping rapper and the former star of Canada's "DeGrassi: The Next Generation" tweeted: "Please refer to @nickiminaj as Mrs. Aubrey Drake Graham and dont stare at her too long. She's finally mine. :)" Nicki tweeted, "Yes, its true. Drake and I tied the knot."
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Japanese photo booths widen eyes for extra cute effect
Back in February we provided a guide to the perfect Valentine purikura. Now purikura machines have moved on to make life even easier, offering an option to create super-cute wide eyes.read more
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Piers Morgan Weighs In On 'X-Factor' Auto-Tune Controversy At Emmys
'Complete baloney,' Morgan says of voice altering being used on talent shows he judges.By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Jim Cantiello
Piers Morgan at the 2010 Emmy Awards
Photo: Jeff Kravitz/ Getty Images
Last week, as rumors began to circulate that Simon Cowell's British talent competition "X-Factor" used Auto-Tune to alter contestants' voices, Piers Morgan, who is a judge on both "America's Got Talent" and "Britain's Got Talent," weighed in on the employment of the vocal-altering device on reality singing competitions, insisting they had never been used on his own programs.
Morgan also addressed murmurings that Susan Boyle, who competed on "Britain's Got Talent" last year, had also been Auto-Tuned to improve her vocals. "You've heard Susan [Boyle] sing live here. Sounds the same. Complete baloney," he told MTV News on the red carpet at the "Entertainment Tonight" Emmy afterparty. "They also said we're apparently scripted with our lines as judges. News to me. It would have made life a lot easier if someone had told me what to say!"
The bottom line, as explained by Morgan, is that people are making a big deal out of nothing. "I think it's all been massively exaggerated," he explained. "I think everyone should calm down a bit. Susan sings better actually live than she does in the auditions anywhere. That's what all the fuss is about anyway. I wouldn't worry. It's an entertainment show."
According to reports last week, after Cowell heard about the allegations, he ordered an immediate ban on Auto-Tune use in future shows, while insisting to friends that he was shocked by the claims and plans to launch an investigation. But an unnamed staffer on his show said, "It was an open secret on the show that Auto-Tune was used to both make contestants slightly more on-key or off-key. On some occasions it was used to such extremes that while the contestant may have sounded like they were hitting the right note, the backing band had gone right out of tune. ... It has been used for a long time on the show, both for the auditions and the live shows."
What do you think of the controversy surrounding the use of Auto-Tune in TV talent competitions? Sound off in the comments!
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Piers Morgan at the 2010 Emmy Awards
Photo: Jeff Kravitz/ Getty Images
Last week, as rumors began to circulate that Simon Cowell's British talent competition "X-Factor" used Auto-Tune to alter contestants' voices, Piers Morgan, who is a judge on both "America's Got Talent" and "Britain's Got Talent," weighed in on the employment of the vocal-altering device on reality singing competitions, insisting they had never been used on his own programs.
Morgan also addressed murmurings that Susan Boyle, who competed on "Britain's Got Talent" last year, had also been Auto-Tuned to improve her vocals. "You've heard Susan [Boyle] sing live here. Sounds the same. Complete baloney," he told MTV News on the red carpet at the "Entertainment Tonight" Emmy afterparty. "They also said we're apparently scripted with our lines as judges. News to me. It would have made life a lot easier if someone had told me what to say!"
The bottom line, as explained by Morgan, is that people are making a big deal out of nothing. "I think it's all been massively exaggerated," he explained. "I think everyone should calm down a bit. Susan sings better actually live than she does in the auditions anywhere. That's what all the fuss is about anyway. I wouldn't worry. It's an entertainment show."
According to reports last week, after Cowell heard about the allegations, he ordered an immediate ban on Auto-Tune use in future shows, while insisting to friends that he was shocked by the claims and plans to launch an investigation. But an unnamed staffer on his show said, "It was an open secret on the show that Auto-Tune was used to both make contestants slightly more on-key or off-key. On some occasions it was used to such extremes that while the contestant may have sounded like they were hitting the right note, the backing band had gone right out of tune. ... It has been used for a long time on the show, both for the auditions and the live shows."
What do you think of the controversy surrounding the use of Auto-Tune in TV talent competitions? Sound off in the comments!
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Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment close deal on I��rritu?s ?Biutiful?
Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment have acquired U.S. rights to Alejandro Gonz�lez I��rritu?s latest drama, ?Biutiful.? Maple Pictures, Roadside?s Canadian partner, will release the film in Canada.
The film had its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes in May, where star Javier Bardem was honored with the best actor award. After the film [...]
The film had its world premiere at the Festival de Cannes in May, where star Javier Bardem was honored with the best actor award. After the film [...]
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Britney Spears - Gimme More
Gimme More
Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive/Zomba Label Group
Director: Jake Sarfaty
Album: Blackout
Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive/Zomba Label Group
Director: Jake Sarfaty
Album: Blackout
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Britney Spears Tweets A Picture From 'Glee' Set
'Can't wait for you guys to see the episode!' Spears writes on Twitter.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Britney Spears and her assistant Brett Miller
Photo: Twitter
For fans who may have doubted whether the Britney Spears "Glee" episode is happening, the pop sensation has just provided photographic proof.
The star gave fans a glimpse of her inner-"Gleek" on Wednesday (August 18) by posting a TwitPic of herself next to her assistant Brett Miller, a Spears doppelgänger, both sporting similar specs and wavy blond locks.
After devoting episodes to the dance-floor-filling repertoires of Madonna and Lady Gaga, "Glee" is hard at work bringing Spears' string of hits to William McKinley High. So far, Spears, who makes a cameo in the upcoming episode, is enjoying the process.
"About to do my first shot of the day for Glee tweeties! Here we goooo!" Spears tweeted. The "Circus" singer later added, "What's up GLEEKS? Having so much fun on set!! Can't wait for you guys to see the episode!"
The "Glee" cast is also pumped to turn out Spears' smash-hit catalog. "I get to do Britney Spears!" Heather Morris exclaimed to MTV News earlier this month. "I like 'Toxic' the best or the 'Slave' video. It was always her best performance. She's rocking! I don't care what I do."
Jenna Ushkowitz confirmed that Lea Michele would take on Spears' star-making debut hit, " ... Baby One More Time." Aside from Spears' TwitPic — in which she's presumably in costume — and "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy's recent comments that Spears will "kind of" play herself, details about the episode have remained under wraps.
"Some old Britney, some new Britney, some Brittany of our Brittany from the glee club. So it should be funny," Ushkowitz hinted about the song selection. "We're really excited. I love Britney Spears."
What role do you think Britney will play on "Glee"? Let us know in the comments below!
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Britney Spears and her assistant Brett Miller
Photo: Twitter
For fans who may have doubted whether the Britney Spears "Glee" episode is happening, the pop sensation has just provided photographic proof.
The star gave fans a glimpse of her inner-"Gleek" on Wednesday (August 18) by posting a TwitPic of herself next to her assistant Brett Miller, a Spears doppelgänger, both sporting similar specs and wavy blond locks.
After devoting episodes to the dance-floor-filling repertoires of Madonna and Lady Gaga, "Glee" is hard at work bringing Spears' string of hits to William McKinley High. So far, Spears, who makes a cameo in the upcoming episode, is enjoying the process.
"About to do my first shot of the day for Glee tweeties! Here we goooo!" Spears tweeted. The "Circus" singer later added, "What's up GLEEKS? Having so much fun on set!! Can't wait for you guys to see the episode!"
The "Glee" cast is also pumped to turn out Spears' smash-hit catalog. "I get to do Britney Spears!" Heather Morris exclaimed to MTV News earlier this month. "I like 'Toxic' the best or the 'Slave' video. It was always her best performance. She's rocking! I don't care what I do."
Jenna Ushkowitz confirmed that Lea Michele would take on Spears' star-making debut hit, " ... Baby One More Time." Aside from Spears' TwitPic — in which she's presumably in costume — and "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy's recent comments that Spears will "kind of" play herself, details about the episode have remained under wraps.
"Some old Britney, some new Britney, some Brittany of our Brittany from the glee club. So it should be funny," Ushkowitz hinted about the song selection. "We're really excited. I love Britney Spears."
What role do you think Britney will play on "Glee"? Let us know in the comments below!
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Sunday, August 29, 2010
Paris Hilton Arrested For Cocaine Possession
The star was busted in Las Vegas Friday night.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Paris Hilton in Las Vegas police custody on Friday
Photo: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
Paris Hilton was arrested in Las Vegas Friday night for cocaine possession. Police found a small amount of the substance on the socialite and reality-TV starlet after a black Cadillac Escalade she was riding in was pulled over. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed the arrest to MTV News.
A traffic officer stopped the SUV shortly before midnight on Las Vegas Boulevard near the Wynn Hotel Casino after noticing the scent of marijuana billowing from the vehicle. An officer told MTV News that cocaine fell out of Hilton's purse as she pulled out some lip balm. She was booked into the Clark County Detention Center and later released Saturday (August 28) at 2:45 a.m. on her own recognizance. Cy Waits, who is reportedly dating Hilton, was arrested for with driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol and remained in custody Saturday morning.
Hilton would likely receive probation if convicted, according to The Associated Press. The star's attorney, David Chesnoff, said that he was still getting information about the situation, and added, "I caution people not to rush to judgment."
The heiress tweeted early Saturday morning but didn't appear to be shaken up by the incident.
"In bed watching Family Guy. Love this show.! So hilarious! Stewie is my favorite :) love his accent," Hilton wrote around 6 a.m. "Going to bed. Sweet dreams everyone. Xoxo Paris :)."
Hilton had another run-in with the law over alleged drug possession earlier this summer. The star was detained in South Africa at the World Cup for marijuana possession, but the case against Hilton was later dropped after officials learned that someone else in her group was smoking.
The heiress has a history of getting in trouble for possessing substances and hitting the road. Hilton served 23 days in jail in 2007 for violating probation stemming from a 2006 DUI bust.
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Paris Hilton in Las Vegas police custody on Friday
Photo: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
Paris Hilton was arrested in Las Vegas Friday night for cocaine possession. Police found a small amount of the substance on the socialite and reality-TV starlet after a black Cadillac Escalade she was riding in was pulled over. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed the arrest to MTV News.
A traffic officer stopped the SUV shortly before midnight on Las Vegas Boulevard near the Wynn Hotel Casino after noticing the scent of marijuana billowing from the vehicle. An officer told MTV News that cocaine fell out of Hilton's purse as she pulled out some lip balm. She was booked into the Clark County Detention Center and later released Saturday (August 28) at 2:45 a.m. on her own recognizance. Cy Waits, who is reportedly dating Hilton, was arrested for with driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol and remained in custody Saturday morning.
Hilton would likely receive probation if convicted, according to The Associated Press. The star's attorney, David Chesnoff, said that he was still getting information about the situation, and added, "I caution people not to rush to judgment."
The heiress tweeted early Saturday morning but didn't appear to be shaken up by the incident.
"In bed watching Family Guy. Love this show.! So hilarious! Stewie is my favorite :) love his accent," Hilton wrote around 6 a.m. "Going to bed. Sweet dreams everyone. Xoxo Paris :)."
Hilton had another run-in with the law over alleged drug possession earlier this summer. The star was detained in South Africa at the World Cup for marijuana possession, but the case against Hilton was later dropped after officials learned that someone else in her group was smoking.
The heiress has a history of getting in trouble for possessing substances and hitting the road. Hilton served 23 days in jail in 2007 for violating probation stemming from a 2006 DUI bust.
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Hot Dude Of The Week: Nick Ayler
It is time, once again, for us to partake in the wondrous time of the week where we collectively gawk and gander at the Hot Dude of the Week. This week’s Hot Dude was photographed by Richard Gerst and he graces the cover and inside pages of the new issue of hawt Aussie magazine DNA. [...]
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13 ways to have fun when stranded overnight
In many parts of the world -- Japan and Thailand, for instance -- missing the last train means you?re stuck until dawn. Bummer? Not necessarily. Unlike being stranded at the airport, nothing stops you from taking a bite out of the area?s night culture. So rather than mope around like a grump waiting for the first coffee house to open, get off your haunches and aboard one of these overnight adventures. You might end up having a better time than you did all evening.read more
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Drake And Nicki Minaj: A Timeline To Twitter Matrimony
A look at the 'super-close' Young Money stars' relationship.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Drake and Nicki Minaj
Photo: MTV News
Drake and Nicki Minaj are two of the biggest MCs reppin' Young Money and on Friday, the hitmaking rappers made major headlines when they tweeted that they had tied the knot. Even if unions announced on social-networking sites aren't recognized by law, the duo's strong bond is undeniable.
Here's a timeline of Drake and Nicki Minaj's moments in the spotlight on their road to Twitter matrimony:
»Minaj told Mixtape Daily in August 2009 that she and Drizzy are "super-close." "Before all of this started, I would tell him, 'You're a star.' And he'd be like, 'You're a star.' And we'd kinda been each other's biggest fans. To see his dreams come into fruition, it makes me very happy," she said.
»In fall 2009, Minaj battled criticism for reportedly penning her freestyles beforehand; an issue that Drake also dealt with earlier in the year.
»In March 2010, Drizzy and Minaj joined Young Money boss Lil Wayne onstage at New York City's famed Madison Square Garden. "This means the world to me -- to be there with Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy and Drake," Minaj said. "It was the stuff that dreams are made of for a girl."
»Drake and Minaj appeared together on the May issue of XXL magazine with the caption, "Domination: The Rebirth of Rap Royalty."
»Drake stuck up for Minaj in June amid her drama with fellow femcee Lil' Kim and said he "didn't respect" the Queen Bee's swipes.
»Drake said that he and the Young Money Barbie have a "playful relationship" when asked about the infamous "Miss Me" lyric in which he spits about wife-ing up Minaj. "That line on the album is just me playing with her. I'll be playing with her for years until she's ready to go, and then I'm ready," he said.
»Drake dropped Thank Me Later on June 15. Nicki Minaj appears on the track "Up All Night."
» On August 27, the MCs told their Twitter followers that they are married. "Please refer to @nickiminaj as Mrs. Aubrey Drake Graham and dont stare at her too long. She's finally mine. :)," Drizzy tweets.
What do you think about Nicki Minaj and Drake's relationship? Do you think they are actually married? If not, do you think they ever will marry? Sound off in the comments below!
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Photo: MTV News
Drake and Nicki Minaj are two of the biggest MCs reppin' Young Money and on Friday, the hitmaking rappers made major headlines when they tweeted that they had tied the knot. Even if unions announced on social-networking sites aren't recognized by law, the duo's strong bond is undeniable.
Here's a timeline of Drake and Nicki Minaj's moments in the spotlight on their road to Twitter matrimony:
»Minaj told Mixtape Daily in August 2009 that she and Drizzy are "super-close." "Before all of this started, I would tell him, 'You're a star.' And he'd be like, 'You're a star.' And we'd kinda been each other's biggest fans. To see his dreams come into fruition, it makes me very happy," she said.
»In fall 2009, Minaj battled criticism for reportedly penning her freestyles beforehand; an issue that Drake also dealt with earlier in the year.
»In March 2010, Drizzy and Minaj joined Young Money boss Lil Wayne onstage at New York City's famed Madison Square Garden. "This means the world to me -- to be there with Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy and Drake," Minaj said. "It was the stuff that dreams are made of for a girl."
»Drake and Minaj appeared together on the May issue of XXL magazine with the caption, "Domination: The Rebirth of Rap Royalty."
»Drake stuck up for Minaj in June amid her drama with fellow femcee Lil' Kim and said he "didn't respect" the Queen Bee's swipes.
»Drake said that he and the Young Money Barbie have a "playful relationship" when asked about the infamous "Miss Me" lyric in which he spits about wife-ing up Minaj. "That line on the album is just me playing with her. I'll be playing with her for years until she's ready to go, and then I'm ready," he said.
»Drake dropped Thank Me Later on June 15. Nicki Minaj appears on the track "Up All Night."
» On August 27, the MCs told their Twitter followers that they are married. "Please refer to @nickiminaj as Mrs. Aubrey Drake Graham and dont stare at her too long. She's finally mine. :)," Drizzy tweets.
What do you think about Nicki Minaj and Drake's relationship? Do you think they are actually married? If not, do you think they ever will marry? Sound off in the comments below!
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Chris Brown's BET Performance Joins List Of Greatest Pop-Culture Crying Fits
Halle Berry, Kelly Clarkson, Justin Timberlake and more have had their moments.By Kyle Anderson
Chris Brown performs at the 2010 BET awards on Sunday
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images
Despite the triumphant TV returns of Kanye West, T.I. and El DeBarge at Sunday night's 2010 BET Awards, the big headline from the show was Chris Brown's moving tribute to late superstar Michael Jackson. Brown flawlessly executed all of Jackson's most classic dance moves (including a scorching moonwalk), but when it came time to lend his voice to Jackson's "Man in the Mirror," Brown broke down in tears and could not sing, apparently overwhelmed by the emotion of the situation.
Crying in public is hardly a new phenomenon in the world of popular culture. Brown joins the list of some of the biggest stars in the world who have also broken down on television.
Halle Berry
When Berry won the Oscar for Best Actress at the 74th Annual Academy Awards in 2002 (for her work in "Monster's Ball"), she became the first African-American woman to take home the prize. That, combined with the overwhelming experience that was making the emotionally-charged "Monster's Ball" and the huge standing ovation she received, threw Berry into hysterics during her acceptance speech. "This moment is so much bigger than me," she said.
Kelly Clarkson
When Kelly Clarkson won the very first season of "American Idol," she was initially in a state of shock. Unable to express how she was feeling to the television audience who voted her the victor over Justin Guarini, she moved on to her performance of "A Moment Like This." When she hit the lyric, "I can't believe it's happening to me," she finally broke. She managed to get through the song, but to continuously apologized for her emotion.
Justin Timberlake
Ashton Kutcher's hit MTV show "Punked" certainly pushed a lot of his famous friends to the brink, but few had a reaction like Timberlake. When Kutcher's crew of actors pretended to be federal officers seizing most of his possessions for failure to pay back taxes, Timberlake flipped out and wept. Usually, Kutcher's reveal at the end of the episode throws the celebrity in question into laughing jags or fits of anger, but Timberlake was clearly just filled with relief.
Tonya Harding
Athletes cry all the time, but it's usually because of the overwhelming thrill of victory or the agony of bitter defeat. Rarely do they weep during a particular competition, but that's exactly what Harding did at the 1994 Winter Olympics. After dealing with her connection to the attack on fellow skater Nancy Kerrigan in the run-up to the games, Harding took the ice only to realize that a lace on one of her skates had broken. In between sobs, she pleaded with the judges to allow her to get new laces and start over. They allowed it, though Harding still only finished eighth.
Crystal Bowersox
The season nine "American Idol" runner-up had an extremely emotional run to the finals (including a harrowing health scare), but it took merely the presence of her father and a particularly heartfelt song to push her to tears. Bowersox slipped a handful of sobs into her performance of Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions' "People Get Ready" during Inspirational Week on the show. It was one of the many performances that put Bowersox in the discussion of the best "Idol" contestants of all time.
Tracy Morgan
The always unpredictable star of "Saturday Night Live" and "30 Rock" has had a tough life and a challenging career, but the mere mention of co-star Tina Fey sent Morgan on the crying train when he visited with Oprah Winfrey on an episode of her show back in April. "She's my friend. Tina is my friend. I love her," he told Winfrey as he was fighting back tears.
"Crying Girl"
There are an awful lot of "American Idol" moments on this list, aren't there? Ashley Ferl gained notoriety during the show's sixth season not as a contestant but as a particularly emotional audience member. The 13-year-old Ferl was so taken with "Idol" contestant Sanjaya Malakar's take on the Kinks' "You Really Got Me" that she sobbed uncontrollably, earning herself a great deal of screen time and the privilege of becoming an Internet meme for a while.
Did we miss any? What is the best incident of celebrity crying? And what did you think of Brown's performance? Let us know in the comments!
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Chris Brown performs at the 2010 BET awards on Sunday
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images
Despite the triumphant TV returns of Kanye West, T.I. and El DeBarge at Sunday night's 2010 BET Awards, the big headline from the show was Chris Brown's moving tribute to late superstar Michael Jackson. Brown flawlessly executed all of Jackson's most classic dance moves (including a scorching moonwalk), but when it came time to lend his voice to Jackson's "Man in the Mirror," Brown broke down in tears and could not sing, apparently overwhelmed by the emotion of the situation.
Crying in public is hardly a new phenomenon in the world of popular culture. Brown joins the list of some of the biggest stars in the world who have also broken down on television.
Halle Berry
When Berry won the Oscar for Best Actress at the 74th Annual Academy Awards in 2002 (for her work in "Monster's Ball"), she became the first African-American woman to take home the prize. That, combined with the overwhelming experience that was making the emotionally-charged "Monster's Ball" and the huge standing ovation she received, threw Berry into hysterics during her acceptance speech. "This moment is so much bigger than me," she said.
Kelly Clarkson
When Kelly Clarkson won the very first season of "American Idol," she was initially in a state of shock. Unable to express how she was feeling to the television audience who voted her the victor over Justin Guarini, she moved on to her performance of "A Moment Like This." When she hit the lyric, "I can't believe it's happening to me," she finally broke. She managed to get through the song, but to continuously apologized for her emotion.
Justin Timberlake
Ashton Kutcher's hit MTV show "Punked" certainly pushed a lot of his famous friends to the brink, but few had a reaction like Timberlake. When Kutcher's crew of actors pretended to be federal officers seizing most of his possessions for failure to pay back taxes, Timberlake flipped out and wept. Usually, Kutcher's reveal at the end of the episode throws the celebrity in question into laughing jags or fits of anger, but Timberlake was clearly just filled with relief.
Tonya Harding
Athletes cry all the time, but it's usually because of the overwhelming thrill of victory or the agony of bitter defeat. Rarely do they weep during a particular competition, but that's exactly what Harding did at the 1994 Winter Olympics. After dealing with her connection to the attack on fellow skater Nancy Kerrigan in the run-up to the games, Harding took the ice only to realize that a lace on one of her skates had broken. In between sobs, she pleaded with the judges to allow her to get new laces and start over. They allowed it, though Harding still only finished eighth.
Crystal Bowersox
The season nine "American Idol" runner-up had an extremely emotional run to the finals (including a harrowing health scare), but it took merely the presence of her father and a particularly heartfelt song to push her to tears. Bowersox slipped a handful of sobs into her performance of Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions' "People Get Ready" during Inspirational Week on the show. It was one of the many performances that put Bowersox in the discussion of the best "Idol" contestants of all time.
Tracy Morgan
The always unpredictable star of "Saturday Night Live" and "30 Rock" has had a tough life and a challenging career, but the mere mention of co-star Tina Fey sent Morgan on the crying train when he visited with Oprah Winfrey on an episode of her show back in April. "She's my friend. Tina is my friend. I love her," he told Winfrey as he was fighting back tears.
"Crying Girl"
There are an awful lot of "American Idol" moments on this list, aren't there? Ashley Ferl gained notoriety during the show's sixth season not as a contestant but as a particularly emotional audience member. The 13-year-old Ferl was so taken with "Idol" contestant Sanjaya Malakar's take on the Kinks' "You Really Got Me" that she sobbed uncontrollably, earning herself a great deal of screen time and the privilege of becoming an Internet meme for a while.
Did we miss any? What is the best incident of celebrity crying? And what did you think of Brown's performance? Let us know in the comments!
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Taylor Swift Talks Pretend Nuptials and Music Leak
Taylor Swift dishes to ET about the buzz surrounding the wedding scene in the video for her new single, "Mine" -- and she reveals how she reacted when the song leaked online. Did sparks really go flying between Taylor and her groom Toby Hemingway?
Taylor in a wedding gown, happily clutching a bouquet -- but the nuptials are only pretend, for the video of "Mine."
"The wedding scene in the video has been most talked about because someone got a picture of it while we were shooting it," the Grammy winning singer says.
Taylor in a wedding gown, happily clutching a bouquet -- but the nuptials are only pretend, for the video of "Mine."
"The wedding scene in the video has been most talked about because someone got a picture of it while we were shooting it," the Grammy winning singer says.
Britney Spears On Working With Lady Gaga: 'Anything's Possible'
Singer poses on manga-inspired Pop cover.By James Dinh
Britney Spears on the cover of <i>Pop</i>
Photo: J-Pop
From schoolgirl to toxic temptress, Britney Spears has played many characters throughout the years. But the singer took a very different approach for her photo spread in the upcoming issue of the U.K.'s Pop magazine by channeling her inner manga character. In the issue, the pop princess dished about the possibilities of a Lady Gaga collaboration and working with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami for the anime-inspired cover.
Despite Gaga overthrowing Spears as the most-followed celebrity on Twitter, the singer had no hard feelings toward pop's newest sensation. "I'm a big fan of hers," she said when asked about working with Gaga. "Anything's possible!"
A collaboration between the pop stars doesn't seem out of the question, as Gaga's mega-hit "Telephone" duet with Beyoncé was originally offered to Spears.
Donning a white wedding dress and a veil with matching gloves, Spears innocently poses in a field of flowers on the cover. In another photo, the singer trades the dress for a leg-baring getup accessorized with a red backpack.
Spears' manga-style shoot was shot by Todd Cole with art direction from Takashi Murakami, who is often referred to as the "Andy Warhol of Japan." While the spread strays from the singer's typical styling, the pop star enjoyed working with the artist. "I loved working with Takashi," she said. "I especially liked how he took high-end fashion and incorporated it with Japanese manga."
The singer's tour to Japan was what originally piqued her interest in Japanese culture. "We looked at a lot of characters and artwork before we shot, so I could get a feel for what he was looking for," she explained. "I was in Japan on my past promo tour, and I loved it."
Editor in Chief Dasha Zhukova spoke to Style.com about the singer's Japanese treatment: "She's feminine, sassy, strong-willed, determined: all the things a great Pop icon should be. Couple that with some Japanese swimsuits and a Rodarte wedding gown, and I think she is pretty much Pop personified!"
Spears couldn't wait to share her excitement for her photo shoot with fans. The pop star took to Twitter, saying, "I just saw the photos for the first time and they are beautiful. Comes out Sept. 1st. Thanks @TakashiPom -- Britney."
Aside from gracing the cover of Pop magazine, the singer has already filmed a cameo for her "Glee" tribute episode and is working on completing the follow-up to 2008's Circus.
What do you think of Britney's manga-inspired photo shoot? Would you like to hear a Britney and Gaga collabo? Share your thoughts below!
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Britney Spears on the cover of <i>Pop</i>
Photo: J-Pop
From schoolgirl to toxic temptress, Britney Spears has played many characters throughout the years. But the singer took a very different approach for her photo spread in the upcoming issue of the U.K.'s Pop magazine by channeling her inner manga character. In the issue, the pop princess dished about the possibilities of a Lady Gaga collaboration and working with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami for the anime-inspired cover.
Despite Gaga overthrowing Spears as the most-followed celebrity on Twitter, the singer had no hard feelings toward pop's newest sensation. "I'm a big fan of hers," she said when asked about working with Gaga. "Anything's possible!"
A collaboration between the pop stars doesn't seem out of the question, as Gaga's mega-hit "Telephone" duet with Beyoncé was originally offered to Spears.
Donning a white wedding dress and a veil with matching gloves, Spears innocently poses in a field of flowers on the cover. In another photo, the singer trades the dress for a leg-baring getup accessorized with a red backpack.
Spears' manga-style shoot was shot by Todd Cole with art direction from Takashi Murakami, who is often referred to as the "Andy Warhol of Japan." While the spread strays from the singer's typical styling, the pop star enjoyed working with the artist. "I loved working with Takashi," she said. "I especially liked how he took high-end fashion and incorporated it with Japanese manga."
The singer's tour to Japan was what originally piqued her interest in Japanese culture. "We looked at a lot of characters and artwork before we shot, so I could get a feel for what he was looking for," she explained. "I was in Japan on my past promo tour, and I loved it."
Editor in Chief Dasha Zhukova spoke to Style.com about the singer's Japanese treatment: "She's feminine, sassy, strong-willed, determined: all the things a great Pop icon should be. Couple that with some Japanese swimsuits and a Rodarte wedding gown, and I think she is pretty much Pop personified!"
Spears couldn't wait to share her excitement for her photo shoot with fans. The pop star took to Twitter, saying, "I just saw the photos for the first time and they are beautiful. Comes out Sept. 1st. Thanks @TakashiPom -- Britney."
Aside from gracing the cover of Pop magazine, the singer has already filmed a cameo for her "Glee" tribute episode and is working on completing the follow-up to 2008's Circus.
What do you think of Britney's manga-inspired photo shoot? Would you like to hear a Britney and Gaga collabo? Share your thoughts below!
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Saturday, August 28, 2010
Photos | Wango Tango 2010
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Dimmu Borgir Release Live DVD; Plus Led Zeppelin, Brujeria, & More News That Rules, In Metal File
'It shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums,' guitarist says.By Chris Harris
Dimmu Borgir's Silenoz
Photo: Nuclear Blast
On October 14, Dimmu Borgir — who just happen to be Demi Lovato's favorite black-metal band — will release a a three-disc DVD/CD set called "The Invaluable Darkness," the band's first visual offering since 2002's "World Misanthropy." Boasting live footage shot last year, during gigs in Norway, Germany and England, "The Invaluable Darkness" demonstrates the unbridled furor of seeing Dimmu live, guitarist Silenoz said.
"It shows the honest rawness and atmospheric darkness of our concerts," the Norwegian told Metal File last week, after dismissing recent online rumors that his band's next LP would be coming out through Roadrunner Records. "Basically, it shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums. It's just a different side to the band, basically."
Dimmu Borgir began thinking about "The Invaluable Darkness" two years ago, but didn't start capturing footage until last summer, Silenoz explained, adding that the band will use its current stint on the Blackest of the Black Tour — which got underway Thursday night in Miami Beach, Florida, and also features the tour's founder, Danzig, along with
Moonspell, Winds of Plague and Skeletonwitch — to promote the DVD. Dimmu Borgir will not, however, use the tour to write material for their next LP.
"It's our first time on Blackest, but Glenn [Danzig] had wanted to bring us out before [on the tour], but we weren't available until now," Silenoz said. "We've done Ozzfest before, but we're looking forward to this tour more. We did the main stage on Ozzfest, playing in f--_ing broad daylight. This tour will let us play in bigger places, but at the same time showcase more of what the band's about, visually. We are going to concentrate on the tour for now. Some years ago, we tried putting [material] together on the road, but once we got home, we listened back to it, and were like, 'What the f--- is this?' So, we just scrapped it all. We find it's so much better to totally focus on one thing at a time, and then, when that's over, you move on to the next [thing]. We don't really feel like we need to rush things, anyway, so we'll just take our time, and it's going to be what it's going to be."
Dimmu Borgir hope to reconvene in late December to begin writing the follow-up to 2007's diabolically titled In Sorte Diaboli. "We have some ideas floating around already, but we haven't arranged any material yet," he said. "We'll start doing that once the touring for this DVD is over." The band's frontman, Shagrath, is also due to marry soon — he's engaged to actor Nicolas Cage's ex-girlfriend, Christina Fulton, so that may have an effect on when Dimmu finish their next album, which Silenoz said could be out this coming spring.
"I'm sure [Shagrath] won't let anything get in the way [of] the band — I think, I hope," the guitarist said. "We don't need a Yoko [Ono] situation."
While Dimmu have been at it going on 15 years now, Silenoz said he doesn't think their forthcoming material will be much of a departure from their previous black-metal offerings.
"And we have always been about more than just that term, 'black metal,' " he said. "Luckily for us, the older you get, the less concerned you get with the categorization and putting labels on your music. Things start getting more and more limitless with us, and we know that we operate within certain frames. But we try not to analyze things too much, because it's just going to be working against you in the end. When we write new stuff, we don't think about what we should write — we just get together, and put material together, and if we like it, we keep it. That's the formula, if we even have a formula."
Dimmu Borgir are definitely getting older — guitarist Galder will be missing Blackest because of a recent addition to his family, and Susperia's Cyrus will be filling in for him; while former Vader drummer Dariusz Brzozowski takes over for Hellhammer, who had to leave the band in 2007 after sustaining a neck injury that's now limited the use of his right arm. As Dimmu has gotten on in years, Silenoz admits they have failed to keep pace with some of the more extreme black-metal acts that have followed in their wake.
"We helped open doors for the more extreme bands out there," Silenoz said. "I'm sure we helped open doors for bands like Watain, [insomuch as] people that had maybe started listening to us first then went on to the more extreme stuff. Let's face it — we're not as extreme as Watain and other bands like that, but we're fine with that."
The Blackest of the Black Tour continues through November 10 in San Francisco.
The rest of the week's metal news:
Dimmu's tourmates on Blackest, Winds of Plague, have announced ex-Azusa drummer Art Cruz has joined their ranks — he replaced Jeff Tenney. According to the band's blog, "Art has already added a new spark to the band and has provided us with a solid backbone that will allow us to continue our rampage stronger than ever." ...
What the world really needs is another
Led Zeppelin box set, so, on November 4, Rhino Records will issue the Led Zeppelin Definitive Collection Mini LP Replica CD box set. For just $200, you'll get 1969's Led Zeppelin, 1969's Led Zeppelin II, 1970's Led Zeppelin III, 1971's Led Zeppelin IV, 1973's Houses of the Holy, 1975's Physical Graffiti, 1976's Presence, 1976's The Song Remains the Same, 1979's In Through the Out Door and 1982's Coda, as mini-LP replicas, with artwork from the original U.K. LP sleeves. Now, you know what you can get your dad for Christmas. ...
Former Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach and current Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz have teamed up for a new project they're calling Times of Grace, and they've already started working on material for their debut album. According to Leach, "We have two songs to go and we will be finished with all of the vocals. Adam has taken lead vocals in three songs as of yet and he is doing a great job. We also worked on a track yesterday that is so epic — we trade vocals and do two different melodies at the same time. This album went from a melodic metal album to an epic mix of metal/rock/pop/shoegaze and punk. So all of your metal expectations will be incorrect — we are pushing genre boundaries." To quote "Meet the Parents," we'll look forward to that, Greg. ...
The Funeral Pyre and Early Graves will be hitting the road together next month, starting November 7 in South Lake Tahoe, California. Dates are booked through November 21 in Hollywood. ...
The latest incarnation of Brujeria, which features Carcass frontman Jeff Walker and Napalm Death's Shane Embury, have lined up several U.S. dates for this winter. The band will begin its brief trek November 28 in Denver, and wrap things up in Dallas on December 7. ...
Demiricous will be touring with the Gates of Slumber starting November 9 in Denver, for a jaunt that's scheduled to run through December 6 in Indianapolis. ...
Nearly three years after Roadrunner Records' Roadrunner United concert, which took over the Nokia Theater in New York's Times Square, the label is now releasing footage from that special night as "Roadrunner United: The Concert." The DVD, which hits stores December 9, will boast two discs and 24 live tracks, including Life of Agony's "River Runs Red," King Diamond's "Abigail," Killswitch's "My Last Serenade," Type O Negative's "Black No. 1" and Sepultura's "Refuse/Resist." ...
According to Blabbermouth, Verrot, bassist for Swedish black-metal outfit Elimi, committed suicide on October 3. In a statement, the band said, "Verrot was a very good friend, brother, an excellent bass player/musician and an important part of Elimi; we respect his decision and hope he'll find his way with the dark gods of Chaos. Let your black flame be a part of what brings forth the day of wrath."
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Photo: Nuclear Blast
On October 14, Dimmu Borgir — who just happen to be Demi Lovato's favorite black-metal band — will release a a three-disc DVD/CD set called "The Invaluable Darkness," the band's first visual offering since 2002's "World Misanthropy." Boasting live footage shot last year, during gigs in Norway, Germany and England, "The Invaluable Darkness" demonstrates the unbridled furor of seeing Dimmu live, guitarist Silenoz said.
"It shows the honest rawness and atmospheric darkness of our concerts," the Norwegian told Metal File last week, after dismissing recent online rumors that his band's next LP would be coming out through Roadrunner Records. "Basically, it shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums. It's just a different side to the band, basically."
Dimmu Borgir began thinking about "The Invaluable Darkness" two years ago, but didn't start capturing footage until last summer, Silenoz explained, adding that the band will use its current stint on the Blackest of the Black Tour — which got underway Thursday night in Miami Beach, Florida, and also features the tour's founder, Danzig, along with
Moonspell, Winds of Plague and Skeletonwitch — to promote the DVD. Dimmu Borgir will not, however, use the tour to write material for their next LP.
"It's our first time on Blackest, but Glenn [Danzig] had wanted to bring us out before [on the tour], but we weren't available until now," Silenoz said. "We've done Ozzfest before, but we're looking forward to this tour more. We did the main stage on Ozzfest, playing in f--_ing broad daylight. This tour will let us play in bigger places, but at the same time showcase more of what the band's about, visually. We are going to concentrate on the tour for now. Some years ago, we tried putting [material] together on the road, but once we got home, we listened back to it, and were like, 'What the f--- is this?' So, we just scrapped it all. We find it's so much better to totally focus on one thing at a time, and then, when that's over, you move on to the next [thing]. We don't really feel like we need to rush things, anyway, so we'll just take our time, and it's going to be what it's going to be."
Dimmu Borgir hope to reconvene in late December to begin writing the follow-up to 2007's diabolically titled In Sorte Diaboli. "We have some ideas floating around already, but we haven't arranged any material yet," he said. "We'll start doing that once the touring for this DVD is over." The band's frontman, Shagrath, is also due to marry soon — he's engaged to actor Nicolas Cage's ex-girlfriend, Christina Fulton, so that may have an effect on when Dimmu finish their next album, which Silenoz said could be out this coming spring.
"I'm sure [Shagrath] won't let anything get in the way [of] the band — I think, I hope," the guitarist said. "We don't need a Yoko [Ono] situation."
While Dimmu have been at it going on 15 years now, Silenoz said he doesn't think their forthcoming material will be much of a departure from their previous black-metal offerings.
"And we have always been about more than just that term, 'black metal,' " he said. "Luckily for us, the older you get, the less concerned you get with the categorization and putting labels on your music. Things start getting more and more limitless with us, and we know that we operate within certain frames. But we try not to analyze things too much, because it's just going to be working against you in the end. When we write new stuff, we don't think about what we should write — we just get together, and put material together, and if we like it, we keep it. That's the formula, if we even have a formula."
Dimmu Borgir are definitely getting older — guitarist Galder will be missing Blackest because of a recent addition to his family, and Susperia's Cyrus will be filling in for him; while former Vader drummer Dariusz Brzozowski takes over for Hellhammer, who had to leave the band in 2007 after sustaining a neck injury that's now limited the use of his right arm. As Dimmu has gotten on in years, Silenoz admits they have failed to keep pace with some of the more extreme black-metal acts that have followed in their wake.
"We helped open doors for the more extreme bands out there," Silenoz said. "I'm sure we helped open doors for bands like Watain, [insomuch as] people that had maybe started listening to us first then went on to the more extreme stuff. Let's face it — we're not as extreme as Watain and other bands like that, but we're fine with that."
The Blackest of the Black Tour continues through November 10 in San Francisco.
The rest of the week's metal news:
Dimmu's tourmates on Blackest, Winds of Plague, have announced ex-Azusa drummer Art Cruz has joined their ranks — he replaced Jeff Tenney. According to the band's blog, "Art has already added a new spark to the band and has provided us with a solid backbone that will allow us to continue our rampage stronger than ever." ...
What the world really needs is another
Led Zeppelin box set, so, on November 4, Rhino Records will issue the Led Zeppelin Definitive Collection Mini LP Replica CD box set. For just $200, you'll get 1969's Led Zeppelin, 1969's Led Zeppelin II, 1970's Led Zeppelin III, 1971's Led Zeppelin IV, 1973's Houses of the Holy, 1975's Physical Graffiti, 1976's Presence, 1976's The Song Remains the Same, 1979's In Through the Out Door and 1982's Coda, as mini-LP replicas, with artwork from the original U.K. LP sleeves. Now, you know what you can get your dad for Christmas. ...
Former Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach and current Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz have teamed up for a new project they're calling Times of Grace, and they've already started working on material for their debut album. According to Leach, "We have two songs to go and we will be finished with all of the vocals. Adam has taken lead vocals in three songs as of yet and he is doing a great job. We also worked on a track yesterday that is so epic — we trade vocals and do two different melodies at the same time. This album went from a melodic metal album to an epic mix of metal/rock/pop/shoegaze and punk. So all of your metal expectations will be incorrect — we are pushing genre boundaries." To quote "Meet the Parents," we'll look forward to that, Greg. ...
The Funeral Pyre and Early Graves will be hitting the road together next month, starting November 7 in South Lake Tahoe, California. Dates are booked through November 21 in Hollywood. ...
The latest incarnation of Brujeria, which features Carcass frontman Jeff Walker and Napalm Death's Shane Embury, have lined up several U.S. dates for this winter. The band will begin its brief trek November 28 in Denver, and wrap things up in Dallas on December 7. ...
Demiricous will be touring with the Gates of Slumber starting November 9 in Denver, for a jaunt that's scheduled to run through December 6 in Indianapolis. ...
Nearly three years after Roadrunner Records' Roadrunner United concert, which took over the Nokia Theater in New York's Times Square, the label is now releasing footage from that special night as "Roadrunner United: The Concert." The DVD, which hits stores December 9, will boast two discs and 24 live tracks, including Life of Agony's "River Runs Red," King Diamond's "Abigail," Killswitch's "My Last Serenade," Type O Negative's "Black No. 1" and Sepultura's "Refuse/Resist." ...
According to Blabbermouth, Verrot, bassist for Swedish black-metal outfit Elimi, committed suicide on October 3. In a statement, the band said, "Verrot was a very good friend, brother, an excellent bass player/musician and an important part of Elimi; we respect his decision and hope he'll find his way with the dark gods of Chaos. Let your black flame be a part of what brings forth the day of wrath."
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Nummy LA Places
I ate at these nummy places while in Los Angeles:
Lunch:
Lemonade
Joan's on Third
Toast
Dinner:
Bouchon
Tavern
Pizzeria Mozza
Lunch:
Lemonade
Joan's on Third
Toast
Dinner:
Bouchon
Tavern
Pizzeria Mozza
Photos | Justin Bieber Sits Down With MTV News
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Lil Wayne's Tha Carter IV Drops The Day He's Released From Prison
Wayne will also headline a homecoming concert the same day, says Young Money's Mack Maine.By Shaheem Reid
Lil Wayne
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
Lil Wayne's Young Money army is loading up and getting ready to unleash a wave of new music toward the end of this year and the beginning of next year. The youngest of the Young Money crew, Lil Twist and Lil Chuckee, are working the Net and the mixtape circuit, as are Jae Millz and Gudda Gudda. Tyga, who's performing shows in South Africa this week, just dropped a video for his Lil Wayne-featured "I'm On It," and of course, his Chris Brown collaboration "Deuces" is an undeniable people-propelled hit. The record was a mixtape song, but through requests and video play on MTV Jams and "106 & Park," it's become a number-one hit.
Young Money president Mack Maine says that Tyga has an official second single coming soon and is hoping the company releases his album before 2010 is over. If not, look for Tyga at the top of 2011.
The biggest Young Money releases this year, of course, are coming courtesy of the leader of the family, Lil Wayne. Weezy has a 10-song project called I Am Not a Human Being that will be released digitally on his birthday, September 27. YM has tentative plans to come right back with more Weezy on November 5. That album, of course, will be his über-anticipated Tha Carter IV, or C4 as it's been nicknamed.
"Tha Carter IV plans we had and still have are to put Tha Carter IV out the day he comes out [of prison]," Mack said Thursday in New York. "He had so many songs for Tha Carter IV, we said let's just put these 10 songs out [on I Am Not a Human Being] and double-back for Tha Carter IV. He has more songs for Tha Carter IV that are still strong."
Mack says that Wayne is deeply involved in Tha Carter IV's song selection process despite currently serving his yearlong sentence on Rikers Island.
"It's basically me, him, Baby and Cortez Bryant mapping it out," Mack explained. "We had a listening session out here. It was me, Baby and Cortez. I let [Wayne] know these are the ones we picked. He already picked six of them from back there. I let him hear it over the phone. I book him a studio session — kinda like I did for the 'Light Up' up remix with Drake. I book him a studio session and let him listen [to tracks] over the phone. 'Do you like this one?' 'Yeah?' "
While Wayne shot a slew of videos for guest spots on other artists' songs and for his Rebirth LP before he went to prison, Weezy did not get to film videos for I Am Not a Human Being or Carter IV, which by no means is stifling plans for the releases. "Right Above It" (originally a track for Carter IV) is the first single for ... Human Being and has been released to radio. Meanwhile, Mack says the camp is thinking about not putting any music from Carter IV out prior to the release. They're toying with the idea of letting the fans be surprised when they purchase the project.
"We might just drop the album that day," Mack said of C4. "Just hope it don't leak out and drop it that day. I think it would be crazy, the anticipation."
Right now, Wayne has a tentative release date from prison of November 5. Not only does Young Money want to drop Carter IV that day, they want to hold a welcome-home concert that night, which Wayne would headline.
"That's where we are aiming for now," Mack explained. "I think the [Madison Square] Garden would be perfect. I wanna keep it Young Money. I think we can hold our own. As far as his set, it would be nice to have features and cameos on his set. As far as who opens for him, it'll be a no-brainer, Young Money could hold it down. Just have the big features on Wayne's set. He's gonna have a show, then go to the studio. I just had a birthday recently. I had four parties for my birthday. For him, it's no telling how that week would go, how that month would go. Five months [would go]. We're gonna party like when Frank came home in 'King of New York.' We're gonna go crazy."
Also in November, the 23rd to be exact, comes Nicki Minaj's debut Pink Friday. Drake is already working on another album as well as a mixtape, and according to Mack, it's "real possible" that Drizzy's sophomore LP will come before next summer.
While Mack has been aggressively carrying out his duties as an executive, let's not forget he's still an artist. He has a new single out called "All in One Swipe" featuring the Birdman, Rick Ross and Chu. Mack's new mixtape and album are currently in production.
This Sunday, MTV Jams will debut Mack's new video "I'm From New Orleans," a collaboration with Lucci Lou and T@, which will be featured during a daylong celebration called "Louisiana Love." On the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, MTV Jams is celebrating the life and the strength of the survivors of the hurricane.
What do you think about Carter IV possibly dropping right when Wayne gets out? Let us know in the comments!
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Lil Wayne Heads To Rikers Island
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Lil Wayne
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
Lil Wayne's Young Money army is loading up and getting ready to unleash a wave of new music toward the end of this year and the beginning of next year. The youngest of the Young Money crew, Lil Twist and Lil Chuckee, are working the Net and the mixtape circuit, as are Jae Millz and Gudda Gudda. Tyga, who's performing shows in South Africa this week, just dropped a video for his Lil Wayne-featured "I'm On It," and of course, his Chris Brown collaboration "Deuces" is an undeniable people-propelled hit. The record was a mixtape song, but through requests and video play on MTV Jams and "106 & Park," it's become a number-one hit.
Young Money president Mack Maine says that Tyga has an official second single coming soon and is hoping the company releases his album before 2010 is over. If not, look for Tyga at the top of 2011.
The biggest Young Money releases this year, of course, are coming courtesy of the leader of the family, Lil Wayne. Weezy has a 10-song project called I Am Not a Human Being that will be released digitally on his birthday, September 27. YM has tentative plans to come right back with more Weezy on November 5. That album, of course, will be his über-anticipated Tha Carter IV, or C4 as it's been nicknamed.
"Tha Carter IV plans we had and still have are to put Tha Carter IV out the day he comes out [of prison]," Mack said Thursday in New York. "He had so many songs for Tha Carter IV, we said let's just put these 10 songs out [on I Am Not a Human Being] and double-back for Tha Carter IV. He has more songs for Tha Carter IV that are still strong."
Mack says that Wayne is deeply involved in Tha Carter IV's song selection process despite currently serving his yearlong sentence on Rikers Island.
"It's basically me, him, Baby and Cortez Bryant mapping it out," Mack explained. "We had a listening session out here. It was me, Baby and Cortez. I let [Wayne] know these are the ones we picked. He already picked six of them from back there. I let him hear it over the phone. I book him a studio session — kinda like I did for the 'Light Up' up remix with Drake. I book him a studio session and let him listen [to tracks] over the phone. 'Do you like this one?' 'Yeah?' "
While Wayne shot a slew of videos for guest spots on other artists' songs and for his Rebirth LP before he went to prison, Weezy did not get to film videos for I Am Not a Human Being or Carter IV, which by no means is stifling plans for the releases. "Right Above It" (originally a track for Carter IV) is the first single for ... Human Being and has been released to radio. Meanwhile, Mack says the camp is thinking about not putting any music from Carter IV out prior to the release. They're toying with the idea of letting the fans be surprised when they purchase the project.
"We might just drop the album that day," Mack said of C4. "Just hope it don't leak out and drop it that day. I think it would be crazy, the anticipation."
Right now, Wayne has a tentative release date from prison of November 5. Not only does Young Money want to drop Carter IV that day, they want to hold a welcome-home concert that night, which Wayne would headline.
"That's where we are aiming for now," Mack explained. "I think the [Madison Square] Garden would be perfect. I wanna keep it Young Money. I think we can hold our own. As far as his set, it would be nice to have features and cameos on his set. As far as who opens for him, it'll be a no-brainer, Young Money could hold it down. Just have the big features on Wayne's set. He's gonna have a show, then go to the studio. I just had a birthday recently. I had four parties for my birthday. For him, it's no telling how that week would go, how that month would go. Five months [would go]. We're gonna party like when Frank came home in 'King of New York.' We're gonna go crazy."
Also in November, the 23rd to be exact, comes Nicki Minaj's debut Pink Friday. Drake is already working on another album as well as a mixtape, and according to Mack, it's "real possible" that Drizzy's sophomore LP will come before next summer.
While Mack has been aggressively carrying out his duties as an executive, let's not forget he's still an artist. He has a new single out called "All in One Swipe" featuring the Birdman, Rick Ross and Chu. Mack's new mixtape and album are currently in production.
This Sunday, MTV Jams will debut Mack's new video "I'm From New Orleans," a collaboration with Lucci Lou and T@, which will be featured during a daylong celebration called "Louisiana Love." On the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, MTV Jams is celebrating the life and the strength of the survivors of the hurricane.
What do you think about Carter IV possibly dropping right when Wayne gets out? Let us know in the comments!
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Taylor Swift's 'Mine' Video: The Other Teenage Dream
Taylor's fantasy of marriage and family offers a very different vision from Katy Perry's sexy romps.By James Montgomery
Taylor Swift and Toby Hemingway in "Mine"
Photo: Big Machine Records
It's interesting that the premiere of Taylor Swift's "Mine" video comes less than three weeks after the grand unveiling of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" clip. For all their differences, they are essentially about the same thing: the fantasies of young, thoroughly modern women.
Of course, those fantasies are about as different as the women presenting them. Perry's "Teenage Dream" is very much about the immediacy of pleasure, of fun and sexy romps on the beach and uninhibited road-trip adventures. Swift's version is quite the opposite: Hers is a dream buoyed by the satisfaction of the long-term, of a doting husband and towheaded children and white picket fences. They are two wildly dissimilar sides of the same coin: Perry wants to be free; Taylor wants a husband. And the one you tend to identify with probably says a lot about you.
To be clear, these certainly aren't the only two avenues available to women (not by a long shot), but if you want to get professorial about things, "Teenage Dream" and "Mine" offer up a rather interesting dissection of feminism in the 21st century. This is not to suggest that Perry or Swift are paragons of the movement, but they are two of the hugest pop(ish) stars on the planet, adored and idolized by millions. And certainly, a portion of those millions are young girls. So, really, there's probably something at stake here.
To that end, while I don't want to wade too heavily into the field of gender politics (these are, after all, just a pair of pop videos), it's interesting — if not sort of disappointing — that neither Perry nor Swift are seen running Fortune 500 companies or piloting Black Hawk helicopters in their videos. Those, it would seem, are Teenage Dreams of a different sort.
Of course, neither option is necessarily bad. Perry is empowered because she is totally unchained, free to pursue whatever (or whomever) she desires. Swift goes the opposite route in the "Mine" video, investing fully in the idea of love and family and the future. There may be bumps along the way — as she sings, there are bills to pay and late-night shouting matches, and suddenly, the big house doesn't seem all that attainable — but she's committed. She's in it for the long haul. It's not a particularly sexy dream, but it's certainly an admirable on, especially in these times.
With "Mine," Swift has basically set herself up as the anti-Perry. And in doing so, she's created a rather interesting counter-proposal to KP's teenage dreams. No one is saying either is wrong, it's just interesting to see two of the biggest female stars with such wildly differing takes on feminism and the future. They are, in essence, presenting two possible paths. A girl's gotta have options, after all.
What did you think of Taylor's new video? Share your review in the comments!
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Taylor Swift and Toby Hemingway in "Mine"
Photo: Big Machine Records
It's interesting that the premiere of Taylor Swift's "Mine" video comes less than three weeks after the grand unveiling of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" clip. For all their differences, they are essentially about the same thing: the fantasies of young, thoroughly modern women.
Of course, those fantasies are about as different as the women presenting them. Perry's "Teenage Dream" is very much about the immediacy of pleasure, of fun and sexy romps on the beach and uninhibited road-trip adventures. Swift's version is quite the opposite: Hers is a dream buoyed by the satisfaction of the long-term, of a doting husband and towheaded children and white picket fences. They are two wildly dissimilar sides of the same coin: Perry wants to be free; Taylor wants a husband. And the one you tend to identify with probably says a lot about you.
To be clear, these certainly aren't the only two avenues available to women (not by a long shot), but if you want to get professorial about things, "Teenage Dream" and "Mine" offer up a rather interesting dissection of feminism in the 21st century. This is not to suggest that Perry or Swift are paragons of the movement, but they are two of the hugest pop(ish) stars on the planet, adored and idolized by millions. And certainly, a portion of those millions are young girls. So, really, there's probably something at stake here.
To that end, while I don't want to wade too heavily into the field of gender politics (these are, after all, just a pair of pop videos), it's interesting — if not sort of disappointing — that neither Perry nor Swift are seen running Fortune 500 companies or piloting Black Hawk helicopters in their videos. Those, it would seem, are Teenage Dreams of a different sort.
Of course, neither option is necessarily bad. Perry is empowered because she is totally unchained, free to pursue whatever (or whomever) she desires. Swift goes the opposite route in the "Mine" video, investing fully in the idea of love and family and the future. There may be bumps along the way — as she sings, there are bills to pay and late-night shouting matches, and suddenly, the big house doesn't seem all that attainable — but she's committed. She's in it for the long haul. It's not a particularly sexy dream, but it's certainly an admirable on, especially in these times.
With "Mine," Swift has basically set herself up as the anti-Perry. And in doing so, she's created a rather interesting counter-proposal to KP's teenage dreams. No one is saying either is wrong, it's just interesting to see two of the biggest female stars with such wildly differing takes on feminism and the future. They are, in essence, presenting two possible paths. A girl's gotta have options, after all.
What did you think of Taylor's new video? Share your review in the comments!
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Beyoncé - If I Were A Boy
If I Were A Boy
Artist: Beyoncé
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Album: I Am... Sasha Fierce
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TRAILER: Dax Shepard and Katie Aselton in ?The Freebie? (video)
Katie Aselton's micro-indie "The Freebie" had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year as part of the new Next section. It stars Dax Shepard and Aselton as a young married couple who give each other one free pass to stray.
Phase 4 Films picked up the film right after the fest and will [...]
Phase 4 Films picked up the film right after the fest and will [...]
Billboard's 'Songs Of The Summer' Chart
Chech out the hottest songs of the summer from Billboard's "Songs Of The Summer" list.
Photo: Capitol
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'The Last Exorcism': The Reviews Are In!
'The Last Exorcism': The Reviews Are In!
Katy Perry
Gina Carano
Britney Spears
Critics praise the film's story and actors, but not everyone is impressed.
By Eric Ditzian
Ashley Bell in "The Last Exorcism"
Photo: Lionsgate
Not all of us on the MTV Movies team are horror fans. Some have admitted in public that knife-wielding maniacs and rivers of blood freak us out.
What a delight, then, to find "The Last Exorcism." Though, honestly, there is nothing delightful about this low-budget flick, which delivers plenty of tense jolts and sweaty-palmed anticipation, forcing us scaredy-cats to hide our eyes. It's just that "Last Exorcism" is such a delightful surprise.
The film is a character-driven drama tethered to everyday reality by its faux-documentary style. The disillusioned preacher, the frightened small-town teen — these are people to whom we can relate, for whom we can come to care. We'll take this sort of horror flick any day over the torture porn of something like "Hostel" or the paint-by-numbers scares of so many ongoing franchises.
Not everyone agrees. The film has received largely positive reviews, but many dissenters remain. Still, "Last Exorcism" is expected to compete with the crime thriller "Takers" for the #1 spot at this weekend's box office. Here is what the critics are saying about "Last Exorcism":
The Story
"[The film is a] portrait of preacher Cotton Marcus (smoothly played by Patrick Fabian). Having performed fake exorcisms since he was a child, the clean-cut family man, undergoing an apparent crisis of conscience, is planning to cop to the 25-year charade by letting a documentary crew in on all the tricks of his trade. But soon after they show up at the rural Louisiana home of a strict fundamentalist farmer (Louis Herthum), it becomes readily apparent that his tormented, wide-eyed teen daughter (an impressive Ashley Bell) is going to require much more than just sideshow sleight of hand." — Michael Rechtshaffen, The Hollywood Reporter
The Performances
"Both Fabian and Bell are outstanding. Yes, Marcus is kind of a creep, preying on the beliefs of others for his own gain. But Fabian makes him likable anyway, someone who's willing to take us inside the game, even if it's at his own expense. His character loves the camera, and it returns the feeling. Fabian makes him a show-off but not a boor. Bell is even better. How could a girl this sweet do the things for which she's supposedly responsible? Is she really possessed? Is she disturbed? Sometimes a simple smile can more thoroughly creep you out than all the head-spinning and pea-soup puking in the world." — Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic
The Scares
"The suspense is finely crafted. 'The Last Exorcism' doesn't rely on cheap shock effects but locates scares in weird images — many of which cut deep because the camera is caught out of position, or isn't in focus, or is far from the action. Director Daniel Stamm stimulates the imagination rather than shunt it aside: The horror genre is all about exercising restraint in the presence of the unrestrained." — Kyle Smith, New York Post
The Dissenters
"The pieces are all there: Marcus' desire to atone for decades of bamboozling, the utterly screwed-up Sweetzers, weighty questions about the costs of spiritual solace delivered cheaply or disingenuously. But despite mostly solid performances (particularly by Fabian, who quickly gets you rooting for the slick Marcus) and a satisfying, slow-building tension, things fly apart rather than come together. It's like director Daniel Stamm and his crew realized they were treading awfully close to making a film with real depth and edge that horror audiences might hate, and they just couldn't pull the trigger. This explains a final sequence that spectacularly squanders all the potentially stimulating material from the previous 86 minutes. There may once have been a good and a bad film fighting for the soul of 'The Last Exorcism,' but in its final moments, cinema's dark forces triumph emphatically." — Jesse Singal, The Boston Globe
The Final Word
"Possessed by suspense, talent, brains and a gothic sense of humor, 'The Last Exorcism' makes first-rate use of religious doubt and religious extremism to concoct a novel horror-thriller clever enough to seduce unbelievers while satisfying the bloodlust of its congregation/fanbase. While spasmodic handheld camerawork has become increasingly tiresome as a shock device-cum-convention, it's deployed here with enormous restraint and skill by d.p. Zoltan Honti, and helmer Daniel Stamm knows when to trim the visual frills and stick to the demonic vs. the divine. Expect collection plates to fill up for the August 27 release, and to hear hosannas from Lionsgate." — John Anderson, Variety
Share your "Last Exorcism" reviews in the comments!
Check out everything we've got on "The Last Exorcism."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Katy Perry
Gina Carano
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T.I. Says Song With Lady Gaga May Not Be 'A Keeper'
Gaga claims collaboration could be worked into something even better, says Tip.By James Montgomery
T.I.
Photo: Moses Robinson/ Getty Images
Earlier this year, T.I. had jaws dropping when he announced that he'd recorded some 80 songs for his upcoming album King Uncaged, and that at least one of them was a collaboration with Lady Gaga.
"[She's a] phenomenal talent. Extremely proud [to work with her]. She's definitely that good. She knows what she's doing. She knows exactly what she wants people to think and say," Tip said of Gaga. "She does everything that she needs to be done to ensure it happens. I think she's an entertainer, in all aspects of the word ... a classic, all-around entertainer. A global star."
A few months later, he continued to heap praise on LG, calling her "a phenomenal talent ... that transcends through all genres, all races, all religions."
But while T.I. was clearly enthused about the collaboration, he also stopped short of saying whether or not his song with Gaga would actually end up on Uncaged, joking, "I'm not gonna let no cats out of no bags." And now, we know the reason why.
In a new interview with Rap-Up.com, TIP revealed that the song would more than likely be re-worked ... or scrapped entirely. Why? Gaga insisted that she could make something even better.
"[Gaga] brought it to my knowledge that she would like to top what we already have," he said. "That being said, I don't know if that's going to be a keeper or if that's going to be one-upped or what not."
So at the moment, the fate of the collaboration seems to be up in the air. But T.I. doesn't seem to be all that upset ... after all, he was thrilled just to work with the Mother Monster on a track.
"I begged on hands and knees [to work with her], 'Please!'" he joked. "I worked with the producer RedOne and made it known that I was interested in working with her, and the enthusiasm was shared, and we were able to get it done."
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T.I.
Photo: Moses Robinson/ Getty Images
Earlier this year, T.I. had jaws dropping when he announced that he'd recorded some 80 songs for his upcoming album King Uncaged, and that at least one of them was a collaboration with Lady Gaga.
"[She's a] phenomenal talent. Extremely proud [to work with her]. She's definitely that good. She knows what she's doing. She knows exactly what she wants people to think and say," Tip said of Gaga. "She does everything that she needs to be done to ensure it happens. I think she's an entertainer, in all aspects of the word ... a classic, all-around entertainer. A global star."
A few months later, he continued to heap praise on LG, calling her "a phenomenal talent ... that transcends through all genres, all races, all religions."
But while T.I. was clearly enthused about the collaboration, he also stopped short of saying whether or not his song with Gaga would actually end up on Uncaged, joking, "I'm not gonna let no cats out of no bags." And now, we know the reason why.
In a new interview with Rap-Up.com, TIP revealed that the song would more than likely be re-worked ... or scrapped entirely. Why? Gaga insisted that she could make something even better.
"[Gaga] brought it to my knowledge that she would like to top what we already have," he said. "That being said, I don't know if that's going to be a keeper or if that's going to be one-upped or what not."
So at the moment, the fate of the collaboration seems to be up in the air. But T.I. doesn't seem to be all that upset ... after all, he was thrilled just to work with the Mother Monster on a track.
"I begged on hands and knees [to work with her], 'Please!'" he joked. "I worked with the producer RedOne and made it known that I was interested in working with her, and the enthusiasm was shared, and we were able to get it done."
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Friday, August 27, 2010
Chris Brown's BET Awards MJ Tribute Was 'Spectacular,' Jermaine Jackson Says
'He deserves to perform, because it's healing for him,' Michael Jackson's brother tells 'Extra.'By Gil Kaufman
Chris Brown performs during the 2010 BET Awards on Sunday
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images
Chris Brown wasn't the only one getting misty-eyed at Sunday night's BET Awards during his tribute to Michael Jackson. The King of Pop's older brother, Jermaine, told "Extra" that he was also overcome with emotion during the dance routine, in which Brown paid homage to some of MJ's most famous moves and then attempted to sing "Man in the Mirror" before being overcome with emotion and weeping onstage.
"To see [Chris'] performance, it was very emotional for me, because it was an acceptance from his fans from what has happened to him and also paying tribute to my brother," Jermaine said. "It was just a spectacular moment."
Fans and critics have been split on the performance, which some saw as the bursting of an emotional dam for the singer, making his first major public appearance since he pleaded guilty to felony assault in his assault of former girlfriend Rihanna last June. Others speculated that Brown may have manufactured the tears to gain sympathy from fans who abandoned him in the wake of the Rihanna attack.
Jermaine Jackson said he thought Brown — a longtime devotee of Michael's and, at one point, considered a modern heir to the R&B throne — had every right to pay homage to his brother. "He deserves to perform, because it's healing for him," Jermaine said. "How can he learn from his mistakes if you don't give him a chance? He needs that. I love Rihanna, and I'm not supporting what he did, but I support him [as a singer] 100 percent. ... I'm just very emotional just knowing what has happened. Chris Brown is a human being, and we all make mistakes. We can't condemn him for what has happened. We hope he has learned from it."
Brown hasn't made any public statements since the BET performance, but on Monday, he did tweet, "My fans are my world," a follow-up to a message earlier in the day when he wrote, "I Love you ... (ever single one of #teambreezy)."
What did you think of Chris Brown's emotional performance? Let us know in the comments.
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Chris Brown performs during the 2010 BET Awards on Sunday
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images
Chris Brown wasn't the only one getting misty-eyed at Sunday night's BET Awards during his tribute to Michael Jackson. The King of Pop's older brother, Jermaine, told "Extra" that he was also overcome with emotion during the dance routine, in which Brown paid homage to some of MJ's most famous moves and then attempted to sing "Man in the Mirror" before being overcome with emotion and weeping onstage.
"To see [Chris'] performance, it was very emotional for me, because it was an acceptance from his fans from what has happened to him and also paying tribute to my brother," Jermaine said. "It was just a spectacular moment."
Fans and critics have been split on the performance, which some saw as the bursting of an emotional dam for the singer, making his first major public appearance since he pleaded guilty to felony assault in his assault of former girlfriend Rihanna last June. Others speculated that Brown may have manufactured the tears to gain sympathy from fans who abandoned him in the wake of the Rihanna attack.
Jermaine Jackson said he thought Brown — a longtime devotee of Michael's and, at one point, considered a modern heir to the R&B throne — had every right to pay homage to his brother. "He deserves to perform, because it's healing for him," Jermaine said. "How can he learn from his mistakes if you don't give him a chance? He needs that. I love Rihanna, and I'm not supporting what he did, but I support him [as a singer] 100 percent. ... I'm just very emotional just knowing what has happened. Chris Brown is a human being, and we all make mistakes. We can't condemn him for what has happened. We hope he has learned from it."
Brown hasn't made any public statements since the BET performance, but on Monday, he did tweet, "My fans are my world," a follow-up to a message earlier in the day when he wrote, "I Love you ... (ever single one of #teambreezy)."
What did you think of Chris Brown's emotional performance? Let us know in the comments.
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Barry Manilow 'Can't Smile Without' Music & Arts Classes in Schools
Barry Manilow has been entertaining audiences for more than 30 years, and the Grammy-winning performer credits music and arts classes he took in high school for guiding him towards his successful career. Now, schools are in jeopardy of losing these helpful classes, and Barry is asking for your help! "Because of budgetary problems around the country and [in] the schools, they're cutting music and arts classes, which just about killed me -- I don't know what I would have done without my music classes when I was growing up," Barry tells ET. "I felt, 'What can I do? I'm just one giddy singer.' So I donate money here and there and that's nice, but I thought maybe I could get the public to help do this." Barry asks that you contact your local school or even your old high school and ask them what they need: "You know they need a set of drums. You know they need a trumpet. And if you can afford it, just get them some musical instruments, and if you can't do that, go to my website, Manilow.com, and we'll tell you how to do it," he says.
AnnaLynne McCord Anne Marie Kortright April Scott Arielle Kebbel
Justin Bieber 3-D Movie Is 'A Story For Our Time,' Director Says
'We're gonna tell the underdog story of where he came from,' Jon Chu says of the Bieb's YouTube-fueled success.By Jocelyn Vena
Justin Bieber
Photo: Frederick Breedon/ Getty Images
Valentine's Day weekend won't just be lovers in 2011. Devoted Beliebers are counting down to the moment they can check out Justin Bieber's 3-D movie. Director Jon Chu promises fans will get an in-depth look at what it's like to be the VMA-nominated singer.
"Well, we're working on it right now. We've been touring with him, so we've been working on it," Chu ("Step Up 3D") told MTV News about the project. "The movie comes out in five months, so we're deep in it. It's been fun to get to know Justin. He's a really cool guy and we're gonna make a really fun movie."
Those who have yet to be infected with Bieber Fever should take note: This movie is for fans and non-fans alike, according to Chu.
"[It's] a movie for his fans, a movie for people who don't know him, and we're gonna tell the underdog story of where he came from," he explained. "Because it's a really fascinating story and it has a lot to do with our sort of digital lifestyle now. He was able to do what corporations try to do now when they use YouTube and they don't even know what to do with it yet. It's a pretty cool story for our time."
As for the film's format, Chu explained that it will be a mixture of concert footage and some documentary-style scenes. "There's not going to be acted-out scenes and I can't talk about the rest. It's not your typical concert film and it's not going to be a biopic ... but it is about his life. I think it's more of a documentary. We're going to figure it out as we go," he said. As for how much of it will be in 3-D, he said, "You'll have to see it. We're figuring that out now."
Chu had more praise for Bieber, telling us the singer has real staying power, as evidenced by artists like Kanye West seeking him out for collaborations.
"He ... isn't a flash in the pan," Chu said. "He has legitimate talent and I think other artists recognize that."
What part of Justin's biography do you most want to see played out in 3-D? Tell us in the comments!
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Photo: Frederick Breedon/ Getty Images
Valentine's Day weekend won't just be lovers in 2011. Devoted Beliebers are counting down to the moment they can check out Justin Bieber's 3-D movie. Director Jon Chu promises fans will get an in-depth look at what it's like to be the VMA-nominated singer.
"Well, we're working on it right now. We've been touring with him, so we've been working on it," Chu ("Step Up 3D") told MTV News about the project. "The movie comes out in five months, so we're deep in it. It's been fun to get to know Justin. He's a really cool guy and we're gonna make a really fun movie."
Those who have yet to be infected with Bieber Fever should take note: This movie is for fans and non-fans alike, according to Chu.
"[It's] a movie for his fans, a movie for people who don't know him, and we're gonna tell the underdog story of where he came from," he explained. "Because it's a really fascinating story and it has a lot to do with our sort of digital lifestyle now. He was able to do what corporations try to do now when they use YouTube and they don't even know what to do with it yet. It's a pretty cool story for our time."
As for the film's format, Chu explained that it will be a mixture of concert footage and some documentary-style scenes. "There's not going to be acted-out scenes and I can't talk about the rest. It's not your typical concert film and it's not going to be a biopic ... but it is about his life. I think it's more of a documentary. We're going to figure it out as we go," he said. As for how much of it will be in 3-D, he said, "You'll have to see it. We're figuring that out now."
Chu had more praise for Bieber, telling us the singer has real staying power, as evidenced by artists like Kanye West seeking him out for collaborations.
"He ... isn't a flash in the pan," Chu said. "He has legitimate talent and I think other artists recognize that."
What part of Justin's biography do you most want to see played out in 3-D? Tell us in the comments!
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Beyoncé - Video Phone (Extended Remix)
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Artist: Beyoncé
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Photos | Led Zeppelin Reunite At London Concert
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Billboard's 'Songs Of The Summer' Chart
Chech out the hottest songs of the summer from Billboard's "Songs Of The Summer" list.
Photo: Capitol
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Faith Evans Reacts to DUI Arrest
Singer Faith Evans was detained by authorities on Saturday night for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, according to the Associated Press. After being held by police for a few hours, Faith posted bail on Sunday morning, but her car was impounded. Officer Cleon Joseph of the Los Angeles Police Department told the AP that the recording artist was arrested near Marina del Rey on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken driving. The Grammy winner tweeted on Sunday night, "I am on the set of my new video for my single 'Gone Already.' I'm sure by now most of you heard that I was detained on suspicion of a DUI. After completing a full day of wardrobe prep I was stopped at a random checkpoint. I'm fine and well, and thank you for your prayers, kind words and concerns."
Photos | 2009 American Music Award Nominees
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Lindsay Lohan Tweets For First Time Since Rehab
Actress blasts paparazzi in her return to Twitter.By Mawuse Ziegbe
Lindsay Lohan
Photo: Dave McNew/ Getty Images
After a fairly rough summer, Lindsay Lohan is getting back into the swing of things. The actress, who left rehab Tuesday after spending 23 days in court-ordered treatment, has returned to Twitter. In her first tweet as a free woman, Lohan targeted some familiar foes: paparazzi.
"Clearly.. Paparazzi shouldn't be allowed to take pictures or video while someone's driving or at a stop light. 4every1's sake #trafficpolice," the starlet tweeted Thursday (August 26).
Just like her constantly changing hair color and shenanigans behind the wheel, Lohan's run-ins with photogs have marked her years in an unrelenting spotlight. A car crash that Lohan claimed was the fault of an overzealous snapper partly inspired a California law aimed at cracking down on eager paparazzi.
In her return to the social-networking site, Lohan appears to have revisited her tradition of oversharing and antagonizing others via the Web. The actress' turbulent relationship with ex-girlfriend Samantha Ronson played out in front of millions of viral fans, with both ladies typing swipes at each other. More recently, bawdy comedienne Joan Rivers went after Lohan on Twitter before the actress began her stint in jail. Lohan has also blasted her publicity-hungry father, Michael, on the site as well.
Even if Lohan has taken up her viral antics once again, many have hope the actress can bounce back from her recent troubles.
"I feel like people in the film industry are rooting for her," film critic Ryan Gilbey recently told MTV News. "[Director Quentin] Tarantino has been saying great, supportive things about her and how brilliant she's in this movie he's produced ['Machete']."
Indeed, her "Machete" co-stars have been beaming about Lohan's performance in the flick.
"I wish her all the best. I mean, she's a talented young actress," Cheech Marin told MTV News at the film's premiere. "Hopefully, she won't let her personal life overwhelm her professional life. ... At some point, you gotta be responsible."
"She's so good in this movie," Jessica Alba added of "Machete." "I can't wait for people to see [her in] it."
Are you happy Lindsay Lohan is tweeting again? Let us know in the comments below!
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Lindsay Lohan
Photo: Dave McNew/ Getty Images
After a fairly rough summer, Lindsay Lohan is getting back into the swing of things. The actress, who left rehab Tuesday after spending 23 days in court-ordered treatment, has returned to Twitter. In her first tweet as a free woman, Lohan targeted some familiar foes: paparazzi.
"Clearly.. Paparazzi shouldn't be allowed to take pictures or video while someone's driving or at a stop light. 4every1's sake #trafficpolice," the starlet tweeted Thursday (August 26).
Just like her constantly changing hair color and shenanigans behind the wheel, Lohan's run-ins with photogs have marked her years in an unrelenting spotlight. A car crash that Lohan claimed was the fault of an overzealous snapper partly inspired a California law aimed at cracking down on eager paparazzi.
In her return to the social-networking site, Lohan appears to have revisited her tradition of oversharing and antagonizing others via the Web. The actress' turbulent relationship with ex-girlfriend Samantha Ronson played out in front of millions of viral fans, with both ladies typing swipes at each other. More recently, bawdy comedienne Joan Rivers went after Lohan on Twitter before the actress began her stint in jail. Lohan has also blasted her publicity-hungry father, Michael, on the site as well.
Even if Lohan has taken up her viral antics once again, many have hope the actress can bounce back from her recent troubles.
"I feel like people in the film industry are rooting for her," film critic Ryan Gilbey recently told MTV News. "[Director Quentin] Tarantino has been saying great, supportive things about her and how brilliant she's in this movie he's produced ['Machete']."
Indeed, her "Machete" co-stars have been beaming about Lohan's performance in the flick.
"I wish her all the best. I mean, she's a talented young actress," Cheech Marin told MTV News at the film's premiere. "Hopefully, she won't let her personal life overwhelm her professional life. ... At some point, you gotta be responsible."
"She's so good in this movie," Jessica Alba added of "Machete." "I can't wait for people to see [her in] it."
Are you happy Lindsay Lohan is tweeting again? Let us know in the comments below!
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Wyclef Jean Laments Failed Haitian Presidential Bid In Song
'Prizon Pou K.E.P.A.' goes back and forth between English and Creole.By Gil Kaufman
Wyclef Jean (file)
Photo: PictureGroup
Wyclef Jean is protesting his exclusion from the upcoming presidential election in Haiti the only way he knows how: by releasing a song.
The former Fugees leader posted a new track called "Prizon Pou K.E.P.A." (which translates into "Prison for the CEP") on Wednesday, in which he compares the rigorous scrutiny he faced to a child receiving a failing report card. The title is a pointed reference to the Haitian election commission, CEP, which ruled that he was not eligible to run for office in his birth nation.
"I am contesting, I am going to the court, I am contesting/ I don't agree, I am contesting, I am going to the court, I am contesting," Wyclef sings. "Look, they gave Wyclef a report card/ They say Wyclef, you don't speak Creole/ You are the Diaspora's candidate."
Over a subtle, skittering beat and gently picked acoustic guitar, 'Clef, 40, sings about his disappointment in the ruling in the island's native language of Creole.
"Even my own Haitians curse me out on Facebook when they hear I want to be president," he says before calling out former bandmate Pras for the Fugees member's negative reaction to Wyclef's attempts. "Even my friends say to give Wyclef a report card/ Even the Catholic priests are surprised, they told me to leave Tigoav, come to Les Cayes/ All weekend I was celebrating Our Lady [Notre Dame]."
His tone is sedate and conversational for most of the tune, but at just past the two-minute mark, he breaks into a Bob Marley-like wail, during which his vocals take on a pained, urgent quaver.
The decision to pour out his heart in Creole in the nearly four-minute song is a pointed bid to speak directly to the Haitian people, as well as a possible winking rebuke to actor Sean Penn, who wrote a stinging column for the Huffington Post this week questioning 'Clef's motives in his failed presidential bid, as well as his fluency in the island nation's two main languages: French and Creole.
Jean has pointed words for the nation's current president as well, René Préval, chiding him, "Some militants say it's a deal that I made with Préval/ I didn't make a deal with Préval/ It's [the] president who asked to see a candidate/ I could not refuse/ I said that I was going back to La Serre/ When I arrived, he offered me coffee/ He wanted to assure my friendship/ He said: 'You are a good candidate'/ He put me on the phone with [presidential candidate] Jude Celestin/ We had a very good convo/ After that, Préval f---ing gave me a report card."
He blasts the president, saying he voted for him in 2006 and that it was Préval, not the electoral council, that put a roadblock in 'Clef's path to the presidency.
"It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the youth that you gave a report card," he sings. "It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the population that you gave a report card/ It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the guy that sells [Haitian sweets] 'dous makos' that you gave a report card/ It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the countrymen that you gave a report card/ Look, they gave Wyclef a report card."
But he saves his harshest words for the electoral council, bringing some of the brimstone of his minister father by saying the CEP is "headed by Lucifer."
In the end, he says, he's just sad for the youth, who he urges to support his cause and promises not to give up.
"My sweetheart is Haiti, do not break her heart/ Before I got to sleep, I always read a psalm, asking Hosanna to take the people out from under the rubbles/ And send angel Gabriel to protect the women under the tents that they are raping/ Wyclef Jean, truthfully, I will continue on contesting the electoral council/ We have to mobilize/ I won't give up."
[Editor's note: Thanks to Karlito's blog for the Creole translation.]
What do you think of Wyclef's musical response? Let us know in the comments.
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Wyclef Jean (file)
Photo: PictureGroup
Wyclef Jean is protesting his exclusion from the upcoming presidential election in Haiti the only way he knows how: by releasing a song.
The former Fugees leader posted a new track called "Prizon Pou K.E.P.A." (which translates into "Prison for the CEP") on Wednesday, in which he compares the rigorous scrutiny he faced to a child receiving a failing report card. The title is a pointed reference to the Haitian election commission, CEP, which ruled that he was not eligible to run for office in his birth nation.
"I am contesting, I am going to the court, I am contesting/ I don't agree, I am contesting, I am going to the court, I am contesting," Wyclef sings. "Look, they gave Wyclef a report card/ They say Wyclef, you don't speak Creole/ You are the Diaspora's candidate."
Over a subtle, skittering beat and gently picked acoustic guitar, 'Clef, 40, sings about his disappointment in the ruling in the island's native language of Creole.
"Even my own Haitians curse me out on Facebook when they hear I want to be president," he says before calling out former bandmate Pras for the Fugees member's negative reaction to Wyclef's attempts. "Even my friends say to give Wyclef a report card/ Even the Catholic priests are surprised, they told me to leave Tigoav, come to Les Cayes/ All weekend I was celebrating Our Lady [Notre Dame]."
His tone is sedate and conversational for most of the tune, but at just past the two-minute mark, he breaks into a Bob Marley-like wail, during which his vocals take on a pained, urgent quaver.
The decision to pour out his heart in Creole in the nearly four-minute song is a pointed bid to speak directly to the Haitian people, as well as a possible winking rebuke to actor Sean Penn, who wrote a stinging column for the Huffington Post this week questioning 'Clef's motives in his failed presidential bid, as well as his fluency in the island nation's two main languages: French and Creole.
Jean has pointed words for the nation's current president as well, René Préval, chiding him, "Some militants say it's a deal that I made with Préval/ I didn't make a deal with Préval/ It's [the] president who asked to see a candidate/ I could not refuse/ I said that I was going back to La Serre/ When I arrived, he offered me coffee/ He wanted to assure my friendship/ He said: 'You are a good candidate'/ He put me on the phone with [presidential candidate] Jude Celestin/ We had a very good convo/ After that, Préval f---ing gave me a report card."
He blasts the president, saying he voted for him in 2006 and that it was Préval, not the electoral council, that put a roadblock in 'Clef's path to the presidency.
"It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the youth that you gave a report card," he sings. "It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the population that you gave a report card/ It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the guy that sells [Haitian sweets] 'dous makos' that you gave a report card/ It's not Wyclef you gave a report card, it's the countrymen that you gave a report card/ Look, they gave Wyclef a report card."
But he saves his harshest words for the electoral council, bringing some of the brimstone of his minister father by saying the CEP is "headed by Lucifer."
In the end, he says, he's just sad for the youth, who he urges to support his cause and promises not to give up.
"My sweetheart is Haiti, do not break her heart/ Before I got to sleep, I always read a psalm, asking Hosanna to take the people out from under the rubbles/ And send angel Gabriel to protect the women under the tents that they are raping/ Wyclef Jean, truthfully, I will continue on contesting the electoral council/ We have to mobilize/ I won't give up."
[Editor's note: Thanks to Karlito's blog for the Creole translation.]
What do you think of Wyclef's musical response? Let us know in the comments.
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