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Fashion essentials 2012

2012-01-27T09:09:00.000-08:00

Christina wants to have a daughter

2009-08-06T08:56:00.001-07:00

Christina Aguilera wants a daughter.

The 'Beautiful' singer, who has a 17-month-old son Max Liron with husband Jordan Bratman, is keen to expand her family but doesn't want to sacrifice her career.

Christina recently set up her own radio station, recorded a new album and has landed a role in new musical movie 'Burlesque', but is confident she can juggle work and motherhood.

A source said: "Christina loves her family time with Jordan and Max and now she has a studio at home, being a mother and working at the same time is a real possibility - but she doesn't know if she wants to give up her other pursuits just yet.

"She has just signed for a new movie and has her radio venture too, so she feels now's not a good time to have another baby - although she would adore another one. Especially a little girl."

Christina recently revealed she loves being a mother and has embraced the changes in her body since giving birth.

The 28-year-old blonde beauty said: "Since becoming a mom, I feel I have more knowledge and that makes me feel beautiful. I feel more centered, which makes me feel confident and sexy.

"The other night, my husband and I were in the bathroom getting ready for bed. I mentioned something on my body that was different before I had the baby. I said, 'That was never like that before!' And he said, 'Are you kidding me? That's what makes you even sexier. The fact that you're a mom and that your body has gone through all those changes, that makes you even sexier.' "

Madonna and Mariah plan Jackson tribute album

2009-08-05T11:09:00.001-07:00

Madonna, Beyonce Knowles and Mariah Carey are planning a Michael Jackson tribute album.

A host of the biggest music stars in the world are keen to acknowledge the late 'Billie Jean' singer's contribution to pop by recording versions of his tracks for a new charity album.

Robbie Williams, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross have also been linked to the LP, as has British schoolboy Shaheen Jafargholi - who was hand-picked to appear at last month's memorial concert for Michael, who died of a suspected cardiac arrest in June.

A source said: "The idea came from the memorial concert. Many fans asked if cover versions from it would be released, and it seemed a wonderful idea.

"This covers album is sure to be a massive worldwide hit with fans and could raise a fortune for Michael's favourite charities."

The assembled stars will pick their favourite tracks by the 'King of Pop' to cover. It is believed Mariah will reprise her version of 'I'll Be There' from the memorial, while Shaheen will sing his version of 'Who's Loving You'. He has also reportedly been asked to record Michael's early smash 'Ben'.

Robbie is apparently being lined up to sing 'Man In The Mirror', and other tracks expected to be on the album include 'Rock With You', 'She's Out Of My Life' and 'Bad'.

A tribute concert to Michael is also being planned in London - where he had been due to play 50 shows starting this summer and running into 2010 - on the date of what would have been his 51st birthday, August 29.

Jackson's medical exam goes missing

2009-08-05T11:07:00.003-07:00

Michael Jackson`s medical examination record has gone missing.

Insurers for the late pop icon's This Is It 50-date London residency were astounded when the report they received from Dr. David Slavit declared the singer to be in perfect health, joking it appeared to have been "based on the body of an astronaut".

Officials at insurers Robertson Taylor were puzzled as to why the ear, nose and throat specialist's report made no mention of the Thriller star's well-publicised health difficulties - including a severely burnt scalp, broken leg and extensive cosmetic surgery - and demanded their own tests be carried out before agreeing to insure his shows for promoters AEG Live.

An AEG spokesperson said: "AEG did not hire a doctor at any time in connection with securing insurance. Dr. David Slavit performed the medical exam which was submitted to the insurers as part of their underwriting.

"AEG has never received a copy of Dr. Slavit's medical exam. A second medical examination was scheduled in the UK when the tour arrived. The policy was issued in a fictitious name."

No-one has actually seen Dr. Slavit's original records of the medical and Robertson Jackson had wanted to do a full examination on July 11, the day after seeing the Bad hitmaker perform a planned full rehearsal at London's O2 arena, where the shows were scheduled to take place.

However, because the star died of a suspected cardiac arrest on June 25 - after the insurance deal had been agreed but before "subject details had been verified" the promoters are now in dispute with the insurers over the validity of their agreement.

The singer's medical certificate had been issued in the name M. Jones but this is said to be standard practice for celebrities to prevent any embarrassing personal health details leaking out.

Carrie Underwood

2009-06-04T00:57:00.000-07:00

Arguably the most successful contestant in the history of American Idol’s seven-year run, Carrie Underwood has deftly managed to overcome the stigma of her reality-show origins to establish herself as a record-breaking and award-winning country singer. Her first album, Some Hearts, became the fastest-selling debut country album since SoundScan started tracking record sales in 1991, and quickly became the best-selling debut album by a female as well.

Her sophomore album, 2007's Carnival Ride, included four hit singles. She’s also won three Grammys, transforming her from up-and-comer to superstar.Carrie Underwood’s record-breaking 2008 run is certainly impressive in its own right -- she did, after all, earn her third consecutive Female Vocalist of the Year award from the Country Music Association, yet it’s her social consciousness and down-to-earth personality that have assured her a place on this list.

Carrie Underwood’s contribution to American Idol’s charitable offshoot Idol Gives Back, a cover of George Michael’s “Praying for Time,” shot to No. 3 less than a day after its release, and she also performed alongside (among others) Beyonce and Miley Cyrus in support of the anti-cancer campaign Stand Up to Cancer. Her ongoing support of the military and passionate views on vegetarianism have earned her a special place in our hearts.

Taylor Swift

2009-06-02T04:34:00.000-07:00

Taylor Swift is a Pennsylvania-born singer-songwriter, performing pop-influenced country music at the tender age of 18. Influenced by Dolly Parton and Patsy Cline as a child, Taylor Swift began writing songs as early as 12 years old. Her debut album, released in late 2006, featured five singles that all ranked on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In early 2008, she was nominated in the Best New Artist category at the Grammys, but lost to Amy Winehouse

Taylor Swift released her second album, Fearless, on November 11, 2008. It debuted at No. 1 on Billboard, selling almost 600,000 copies in its first week alone. Six different songs from the album appeared on the charts in the same week, and one of them, “Change,” was featured heavily in NBC’s coverage of the 2008 Olympic Games. And if that wasn't not enough, she dated a Jonas brother. With so much time in the limelight, we know big things are sure to come to Taylor Swift in ’09

Nicole Scherzinger

2009-06-02T04:06:00.000-07:00

Hawaii-born and Kentucky-raised is a winning combination for sizzling hot Nicole Scherzinger, and why shouldn’t it be? She gets the exotic looks of the Pacific and a wholesome upbringing in the heartland, one that was initially at odds with the Pussycat Dolls' raunchy costumes. She got over it.

In 2009, Nicole Scherzinger returns to her roots as a solo singer as she promotes her debut solo album, Her Name is Nicole. She brings extra musical credibility as well, having been the only Doll to contribute original songs to their recordings and repertoire.

Julianne Hough

2009-06-02T03:55:00.000-07:00

Adorably bubbly, blue-eyed and blond, with a body like a bursting stick of dynamite, singer and dancer Julianne Hough joined ABC’s Dancing with the Stars as a professional and remained with the show for three seasons, winning once each with partners Apolo Ohno and Hélio Castroneves. In those two seasons alone, Julianne Hough led her partners to nine perfect scores.

Not yet 21 years old, this highly accomplished performer has now turned her boundless energy and cheer team optimism toward a career in country music. Her self-titled debut album was released in 2008.

We will miss seeing Julianne Hough on Dancing with the Stars. Her personal pyrotechnics never failed to dazzle us on the dance floor, but if country music is her destiny, we wish her the best. Any way we look at it, Julianne Hough belongs in our spotlight.

M.I.A.,

2009-06-02T03:50:00.000-07:00

Born as Mathangi Arulpragasam in London, England in 1977, singer-songwriter and visual artist M.I.A. spent her childhood in her parents' native Sri Lanka after her father moved the family there so he could support the Tamil independence movement. Much of her lyrical content and visual graphics are influenced by the political struggles she witnessed both as a child, and later, as a refugee on a South London council estate following her mother's return to England.

She began exhibiting her paintings in 2001, before recording a demo tape of her tunes in her bedroom. XL Recordings issued her debut album Arular in 2005, followed by Kala in 2007. The single "Paper Planes" benefited from its inclusion in trailers for Pineapple Express, as it became a Top 5 hit in the U.S. during the summer of 2008.M.I.A. began 2008 on a high note, as her critically acclaimed sophomore album, Kala, was selected as one of the best albums of 2007 in many prominent year-end surveys, including being named Album of the Year by both Rolling Stone and Blender.

M.I.A. created the N.E.E.T. record label and also modeled for Marc Jacobs this past year. "Paper Planes" became a phenomenon, bounding up Billboard's Singles chart to No. 4. In addition to its appearance in Pineapple Express, it was also heard in Hancock and Slumdog Millionaire, and it made it to No. 1 on TRL. The L.A. Dodgers borrowed the track as their victory song, and Rihanna sang it in concert as well. To cap it all off, "Paper Planes" earned her a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year in December. M.I.A. and fiancé Benjamin Brewer are expecting their first child in 2009.

Leona Lewis Biography

2009-06-02T00:31:00.000-07:00

At the BRIT School in London, Leona Lewis excelled on the guitar and piano, and was writing songs by the time she was 12 years old. After saving up to pay for recording time, she produced her demo album, Twilight, and with a boyfriend's encouragement, she tried out for The X Factor.

After she became the first female on The X Factor to win a record deal, Leona Lewis's first single, "A Moment Like This," was released. The single was downloaded 50,000 times in the first 30 minutes it was available online, and went on to become the most downloaded song in 2006. The complete album, Spirit, hit North America in 2008, leading to even more fanfare and recognition for this talented Brit.

Leona Lewis dominated 2008 on the musical front. Singles like "Bleeding Love" and "Better in Time" from her album Spirit made a killing across worldwide charts, and she shared a stage with Jimmy Page, Mariah Carey, Beyonce and Carrie Underwood at an anti-cancer event at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Leona Lewis closed out the year with three Grammy nominations.

We'd also like to mention that Leona Lewis was selected by PETA as one of its Sexiest Vegetarians of 2008. Audiences are waiting to hear more of Leona Lewis' incredible voice when her next album is released in 2009.

Alicia Keys Info

2009-06-02T00:23:00.000-07:00

The mean streets of Hell’s Kitchen have produced their fair share of thugs and lowlifes. However, on January 25, 1981, the planets aligned and a beautiful, angelic soul rose from the urban decay. She was named Alicia Augello Cook, but we know her as Alicia Keys. She began playing the piano at age 7 and quickly showed a deft musical ear. So deft, in fact, that she left university after just four weeks to focus on music. That appears to have been a good decision -- she has since sold over 30 million albums worldwide and has the only duet in Bond soundtrack history to her credit (the theme song to Quantum of Solace).

No offense intended, but the resumes of some women considered beautiful in our culture are a bit lacking. Heiress? Reality TV star? Then you’ve got Alicia Keys -- a singer, songwriter, pianist, cellist, author, producer, and actress with multiple Grammy Awards under her belt. Her silky vocals and classic looks have made her a superstar, one truly deserving of the fame, fortune and everything else that comes with the territory. Alicia Keys doesn’t run over paparazzi, get arrested or date thuggish point guards -- she just keeps her head down and makes great music. And there are few things sexier than that.

Graham Coxon bans fans from Twitter

2009-05-23T00:22:00.001-07:00

Graham Coxon has blasted Blur fans.

The 40-year-old guitarist - who is set to reunite with the band for a series of shows this summer - has banned his followers on social networking site Twitter from asking about the group, insisting their questions are dull.

He wrote: "dumbo questions about blur will result in blockage, dont bother, its boring (sic)."

Graham launched the rant after he was subjected to a series of strange questions by one of his fans.

In the first, Danomind wrote: "midlife?? Midwife?? Midlife Crisis at 40? U kidding? Did you choose the name? Please shed some light! (sic)."

Already losing patience with him, Graham replied: "did i choose the name? are you mad?? there are 4 people in the group, theres a management company, a record label....blaah (sic)."

Danomind then appeared to criticise Blur, writing: "ps there's nothing for us fansters :( hope there'll be more (sic)."

A confused Graham was forced to admit he had no idea what the comment referred to, prompting Danomind to explain: "um...guess not, the name doesn't matter much anyways, baah, who needs record companies nowadays?? Baah, 40 is not old mr!

"no live demos or anything, just good ol tracks.except course we'll buy it anyways, being total completists! For the new fans! (sic)."

Heather Mills has charity request snubbed

2009-05-23T00:21:00.001-07:00

Heather Mills claims her request to donate money to charity was rejected.

The former model was asked to promote a computer game featuring a one-armed hero but when she asked the manufacturers to give her fee to a good cause they reportedly turned her down.

Heather - who lost her left leg below the knee in a motorbike accident in 1993 - wrote on her social networking website Twitter: "Got offered to promote an amputee bionic computer game, from a wealthy computer games company I said if you donate a large sum to charity.

"The stingy company came back saying they couldn't, what happened to charitable businesses, seems they just want to exploit and give nothing."

It was previously claimed Heather - the ex-wife of Beatles legend Sir Paul McCartney - demanded a six-figure fee to front Capcom's 'Bionic Commando' advertising campaign.

She also reportedly incensed game bosses requesting her likeness be included in the game.

A source said: "She was insistent she wouldn't do it for a smaller fee and said the producers should make her the star.

"The request was way, way over their budget and they certainly weren't keen on basing the game on her."

Pink stops swearing at her pet

2009-05-23T00:19:00.001-07:00

Pink claims her dog has calmed down since she stopped calling him F**ker.

The 'So What' singer was forced to change her pet's obscene name to Fred when her dad took charge of the animal.

Pink is quoted as saying: "My dog was called F***er. My dad adopted him and changed his name to Fred. He is a much happier dog now. He still responds to both names but he's happier."

This is not the first time Pink's choice of pet name has caused a problem.

She once shocked a packed restaurant in Beverly Hills by repeatedly calling out "F**ker" after she lost the canine in the upmarket eatery.

An onlooker said: "Suddenly she started screaming, 'F**ker! Here f**ker! Come to Moma, F**ker!'

"People were almost choking on their food. There were kids at the tables but she didn't care.

"It was outrageous - and nobody had the nerve to tell her to shut up."

Peter Andre to fight for full custody

2009-05-23T00:18:00.001-07:00

Peter Andre met with lawyers to discuss a divorce from Katie Price yesterday
(21.05.09).

The singer's legal team reportedly advised him to request full custody of the children the couple raise together - son Junior, three, 23-month old daughter Princess Tiaamii and Katie's son Harvey, six, from a previous relationship - to ensure he ends up with at least shared custody.

Peter, 36, is set to meet estranged wife Katie today (22.05.09) - her 31st birthday - to discuss a possible divorce and custody arrangements.

A friend told Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "Kate's in for a real birthday shock when she arrives home and discovers Peter has already been to his lawyers to talk about divorcing her.

"There's really no turning back for him. It's all gone too far. He's not at all interested in seeing Kate to talk about the future. He is only concerned with seeing his children as soon as possible."

Katie arrived back in England with Princess and Junior yesterday, after flying to the Maldives shortly after the couple's split was announced two weeks ago.

Her security guard is quoted as saying: "She is devastated at what is happening but he knows if a divorce goes ahead Katie will fight tooth and nail for everything.

"He loves his kids and the idea he might have limited access is breaking his heart. There is a very large financial aspect for him to consider, but all he really cares about is the children."

Peter has been staying with his manager after he returned from seeing his family in Cyprus to find his belongings removed from his home and the alarm code changed.

Kanye West compares Jay-Z to Sinatra

2009-05-22T01:22:00.003-07:00

KANYE WEST has said friend Jay-Z is like Frank Sinatra.

The R&B star said the rapper was one of many of today's musicians who he described as "the champions" and all show similar characteristics to icons such as Jimi Hendrix, Michael Jackson and Pink Floyd's Roger Waters.

Writing on his online blog, West said: "I look at our current superstars like legends in the making....like Justin is the new Mike, Beyonce's the new Tina Turner, GaGa's Madonna, Jay is Sinatra...Wayne is Hendrix, Thom Yorke is Roger Waters.

"These are the champions and should be documented as such."
He also used his blog to praise a paparazzi photograph of Rihanna, which he said had not only captured the singer's beauty, but had brought the idyllic landscape to life.

He added: "Why can't all paparazzi photos be this good? Well, obviously because most celebs just aren't Rihanna, LOL!

"But on the real, this pic is hardcore. Peep the perspective shot of the city in the back. Sometimes the paps overexpose the lens or have the flash too high taking all the emotion out of the moment.

"This moment is captured in time now. Good job on this one!"

Bruce Springsteen falsely accused of affair

2009-05-22T01:22:00.001-07:00

THE WOMAN who is accused of having an affair with Bruce Springsteen said her husband made the false claim in order to make money.

Ann Kelly said her husband Arthur knew she wasn't romantically involved with the legendary singer but alleged that she did thinking that Springsteen would pay him off to make it "go away".

In divorce papers she filed yesterday, Mrs Kelly, 44, accuses her husband of naming Springsteen so he would get a cash payment that would 'humiliate' and 'harass' his wife, and get him "media attention." I

She added that Arthur, 45, told her "he and his attorney felt there could be 'big money' in this . . . because, true or not, [Springsteen] would want this to 'go away.'"

She said Arthur has admitted to her that his only "proof" of her alleged affair is "the gossip and impressions of some women who attend the same gym" as Ann, which Springsteen also used.

Mr Kelly filed for divorce on March 27, claiming his wife had "committed adultery with one Bruce Springsteen."

The Born In The USA singer, who has been married to Patti Scialfa for 17 years, said he wouldn't respond to "unfounded" rumours.

Pet Shop Boys censored by China

2009-05-22T01:21:00.001-07:00

PET SHOP BOYS have had to censor their latest album after the Chinese government took offence to some lyrics.

The pop duo were forced to change the lyrics to a track on Yes, their 10th album, before it could go on sale in China.

Officials were offended by the words of Legacy, which read: "Governments fall/ Glaciers melt/ Hurricanes bawl.../ Resentment remains/ both east and west."

But singer Neil Tennant is baffled by the outrage the song has caused and said: "Does the Chinese government really fear the power of a song to bring about change?"

Marilyn Manson to meet fans in London's HMV

2009-05-22T01:20:00.001-07:00

Fans of the multi platinum selling and notorious artist, Marilyn Manson, get the chance to meet him in person, when he visits HMV’s flagship Oxford Street store on Thursday 28th May 2009 to sign copies of his new album, 'The High End Of Low’.

Marilyn Manson and longtime bass player Twiggy, will be at the store from 6.00 pm to meet fans and sign copies of the new album which is officially released on Monday 25th May.

Marilyn Manson has already sold in the region of 44 million albums, and 'The High End Of Low’, will be his seventh studio album to date.

Due to limited time available, 300 wristbands will be issued for access to the event. Wristbands will be available from the store on the day of the event from 9.00am on a first-come first-served basis, one per person only, no reservations.

Dizzee Rascal biggest ever tour dates

2009-05-22T01:19:00.003-07:00

Fresh from supporting the Prodigy on their UK arena tour, Dizzee Rascal has announced details of his biggest ever headlining UK tour to date.

Taking place this autumn, the tour will call at the following venues.

Dates are:

Tuesday 6th October – Newcastle O2 Academy
Wednesday 7th October – Manchester Apollo
Friday 9th October – Cambridge Corn Exchange
Saturday 10th October – Exeter University Great Hall
Sunday 11th October – Bristol O2 Academy
Tuesday 13th October – Nottingham Rock City
Wednesday 14th October – Bournemouth Opera House
Friday 16th October – Norwich UEA
Saturday 17th October – Birmingham O2 Academy
Saturday 24th October – Liverpool University
Sunday 25th October – Sheffield O2 Academy
Monday 26th October – Leeds O2 Academy
Tuesday 27th October – Brighton Dome
Friday 30th October – Swindon Oasis
Saturday 31st October – Preston 53 Degrees
Sunday 1st November – Southend Cliffs Pavillion
Monday 2nd November – Lincoln Engine Shed

Pet Shop Boys and Little Boots gets the Smirnoff Experience

2009-05-22T01:19:00.001-07:00

This July (10th) the Smirnoff Experience™ comes to London to give people the chance to co-create their own event Smirnoff: U.R. The Night at Matter. With a mission to keep good times fresh and original, The Smirnoff Co. will ask people to be part of the night by submitting original ideas and voting on different aspects of the event - including the warm-up boat party, music on the night via the DJ’s playlist and original cocktails – in exchange for getting access to the event.

The night will see Pet Shop Boys, aka Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, taking to the stage for an exclusive club performance. Fresh off the back of winning an Outstanding Acheivement award at the Brits earlier this year and releasing their new album Yes, the electronic duo are bringing their magic to Matter. With a back-catalogue of hits including West End Girls, It’s a Sin, Always on my Mind and Go West, seeing this stadium act perform in such intimate surroundings promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience.

Performing alongside the Pet Shop Boys will be Little Boots, one of the brightest new stars of the year after coming top of the BBC’s 'Sound of 2009' list. With a 'space disco’ sound taking influence from the likes of Human League and David Bowie, Little Boots will bring her signature touch of glamour to the event. With DJ support from dancefloor popsters Hot Chip and cosmic Jedi Tom Middleton, The Smirnoff Co. are ensuring this is a night everyone will want to be part of.

If you think this all sounds destined to be a sell-out event, think again, as it will be creativity, rather than cash, that will earn people a place. Tickets can only be obtained via getting involved in creating the night itself. The Smirnoff Co. are inviting people to have their say in how they want the night to evolve, by submitting their ideas via Facebook in exchange for a chance to get free tickets. Employing an innovative co-creation format, attendees will vote on a number of different elements to help shape the night, including which drinks will be served, what the DJs will play and by choosing the theme for the pre-event boat party, all via polls on the event’s Facebook page.

For more information, including terms and conditions, on how to get involved, become a fan of Smirnoff: U.R. The Night at www.facebook.com/URthenight Idea submissions and voting will start on 19th May.

This event continues the Smirnoff Experience™, series which has already appeared in Moscow, Shanghai, Paris and New York. The events celebrate originality in nightlife by bringing to life original concepts, forming one-off collaborations and championing original drinking experiences.

Green Day rule U.S. and international pop charts

2009-05-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES (Billboard) – Green Day easily grabbed the top spot on the U.S. album chart, and also went to No. 1 in at least 13 other countries, the punk trio's label said on Wednesday.

"21st Century Breakdown" sold 214,828 copies across the United States during the week ended May 17, according to Warner Bros. Records. But it was on sale for only three days, having reached stores on Friday instead of the usual Tuesday.

The band's previous album, 2004's "American Idiot," which also debuted at No. 1, sold 267,000 copies during its first six days. Both "Breakdown" and "Idiot" were hampered by not being stocked in Wal-Mart stores, as the big-box giant declines to stock albums that carry parental advisory stickers. (Neither album was available in an edited version.)

The sales figure for "Breakdown" will perhaps grow on next week's chart, when it will have a full week's worth of sales reflected on the tally. However, Eminem's "Relapse" -- which was released Tuesday -- is expected to take over the top slot on the Billboard 200 with sales possibly reaching 650,000 copies.

"Breakdown" also went to No. 1 in the U.K., Canada, Japan, France, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Argentina, Mexico, South Korea, Sweden, South Africa, and New Zealand, with more chart-topping performances expected by the end of the week, Warner Bros. said.

Elsewhere on the Billboard 200, the "Hannah Montana" movie soundtrack held at No. 2 with 68,000 copies. Rapper Cam'Ron's "Crime Pays," his first release since 2006, debuted at No. 3 with 43,000 copies.

Lady GaGa's "The Fame" moved up two slots to No. 4 with 41,000, while Rascal Flatts' "Unstoppable" slipped one to No. 5 with 33,000.

Bob Dylan's "Together Through Life" fell one to No. 6, Taylor Swift's "Fearless" held at No. 7, reigning champ Chrisette Michele's "Epiphany" slid to No. 8, Rick Ross' "Deeper Than Rap" dropped four to No. 9, and Ciara's "Fantasy Ride" fell seven to No. 10.

Rapper Paul Wall's "Fast Life" entered at No. 15 with 22,000. His last set, "Get Money Stay True," bowed at No. 8 with 92,000 in 2007. He topped the tally with "The Peoples Champ" in 2005 when that set opened at No. 1 with 176,000.

Roots rocker Steve Earle achieved the highest charting album of his career as his "Townes" set bowed at No. 19 with 18,000. The effort is comprised of 15 songs written by late singer/songwriter Townes Van Zandt.

New rock band Parachute landed at No. 40 with its debut album "Losing Sleep," starting with 11,000 solely from sales through the iTunes Store. The digital retailer got the set one week early -- all other physical and digital retailers releases the album Tuesday. Not coincidentally, the set's song "Under Control" was promoted as a free single of the week in the iTunes Store, which likely garnered a lot of consumers to snap up the economically priced $6.99 album.

Overall album sales in this past chart week fell 10.5 percent from the previous week to 5.82 million units, and were off 21.6 percent from the year-ago period. Sales so far this year are off 13.3 percent from the same period in 2008.

Natalie Cole receives new kidney

2009-05-21T14:17:00.001-07:00

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Rhythm and blues singer Natalie Cole, who has been battling Hepatitis C, received a new kidney in Los Angeles and is resting comfortably, her spokeswoman said on Wednesday.

Cole, the 59-year-old daughter of R&B legend Nat "King" Cole, underwent surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The kidney came from a deceased organ donor, the spokeswoman said in a statement.

She has been receiving kidney dialysis three times a week since September, even as she toured the world to promote her new album, "Still Unforgettable." Cole will recuperate for the next three to four months, forcing her to postpone a summer tour, the statement said.

The singer revealed her Hepatitis C diagnosis last July, saying she probably contracted the liver disease from drug use more than 30 years ago.

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne infectious disease that can cause inflammation of the liver, and in extreme cases, liver cancer. It is usually contracted through transfusions of unscreened blood, or by injecting or inhaling drugs.

Cole has won nine Grammys in a 30-year career that has included albums such as "Everlasting" and "Unforgettable ... With Love," which featured her singing a duet with her late father via electronic technology.

Justin Timberlake restaurant in sexual discrimination suit

2009-05-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

An ex-manager at Justin Timberlake’s BBQ restaurant in New York has filed a suit against the company, saying she was sexually harassed while at work.

Alison McDaniel says she was forced to watch porn in a locked office at Southern Hospitality by Timberlake’s business partners, Eytan Sugarman and Ronnie Kaplan, and that they made fun of her when she broke down in tears.

The suit was filed in Manhattan Supreme Court and claims that McDaniel was fired after she complained of the harassment in writing. She did not report the alleged discrimination to the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission before filing the suit, reports the New York Daily News.

The restaurant was also sued in November by a busboy who said employees were not getting paid sufficient overtime or tips that were due to them.

http://www.nme.com/artists/justin-timberlake

Jennifer Love Hewitt to relaunch singing career

2009-05-21T14:14:00.001-07:00

Jennifer Love Hewitt is set to become a country singer, according to her boyfriend.

The I Know What You Did Last Summer actress has moonlighted as a singer throughout her career, but she hasn't released any new material since 2002's BareNaked album, which was produced by singer-songwriter Meredith Brooks.

Love Hewitt's boyfriend Jamie Kennedy told People.com that once Hewitt has written enough material, he wants to help her demo it.

"[Jennifer is] writing a country song," Kennedy said. "I really want to make her a new demo for her music, because I think she should do singing again. She's so good

http://www.nme.com/news/

AC/DC gig draws complaints for being 'too loud'

2009-05-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

AC/DC's gig at Munich's Olympic Stadium on Friday (May 15) drew over 100 complaints from irate residents.

According to police, some people who protested about the "overly loud" gig were as far as 12 miles away from the stadium, where the band performed to 70,000 fans.

Despite the complaints, German news website Thelocal.de reports that the gig was allowed to continue as planned and action has not been taken against the rockers.

Four people arrested at the gig for having counterfeit tickets.

http://www.nme.com/artists/acdc

Kanye West to headline 'Stay In School' concert

2009-05-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

Kanye West is set to headline a concert in his hometown of Chicago, in which he will encourage teens to stay in school until graduation.

The rapper will perform the second "Stay In School" event in honor of his mother, Dr. Donda West, who passed away in 2007 after a cosmetic surgery procedure.

The idea for the concert came from teenager David Abrams, who approached West seeking his assistance. West then decided his Kanye West Foundation (KWF) would be the sponsor, reports allhiphop.com.

The concert takes place at Chicago Theatre on June 11. Tickets are priced from $49.50, and go up to $500 for VIP tickets. They go on sale on Thursday (May 21) at Ticketmaster.

http://www.nme.com/artists/kanye-west

Velvet Chemistry

2009-05-21T01:25:00.000-07:00

Velvet (aka Jenny Petersson) has already scored European success with 'Chemistry’ and is looking to replicate this success in the UK. The track is a Top Ten smash across the continent, both commercially and as a club anthem.

Following StarPilots pseudo-80’s sound, 'Chemistry’ follows this with a semi-camp number that takes you back to legwarmers, Stock, Aitken and Waterman hits and general over production and big sound. It’s big, brash, in yer face pop/dance, and great fun with it

Velvet have already scored seven Top 10 singles in Europe – will this success continue in the UK?

Jackson is not suffering from skin cancer

2009-05-21T01:23:00.001-07:00

MICHAEL JACKSON has denied reports that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer.

His spokesman, Dr Tohme Tohme said claims that the King of Pop had the disease were "not true".

A story published in the Sun newspaper on Saturday, said that spots of skin cancer had been found on the star's upper body, along with pre-cancerous cells on his face

According to the tabloid's anonymous source, Jackson was "at first very concerned, but says he has been assured by the doctors that they can treat this and he will recover".

But Dr Tohme Tohme told the New York Daily News today: "He is great. He is in perfect health...he doesn't have any diseases whatsoever."

The Mars Patrol headline Camden Barfly

2009-05-21T01:22:00.000-07:00

This Saturday sees Scottish pop/rock upstarts THE MARS PATROL headline the Camden Barfly. Having relocated to London last summer the band has worked non-stop to become one of the most exciting new acts on the London circuit, building up a great following and playing some high profile shows at KoKo and a sold out Barfly last time around.

The band have a busy summer approaching with plans in place to record a new release overseas which will be filmed and documented in a follow up to the band's hugely successful web T.V. series.

http://www.themarspatrol.com/

Faithless percussionist Sudha releases debut album

2009-05-21T01:20:00.001-07:00

Sudha is a ground breaking percussionist and pioneering personality of British-Asian music. She has also been the heartbeat of electronic band, Faithless for the last 11 years, enjoying huge global success. Alongside her underground status, performing live at legendary clubs like Cream and The Hacienda, her success has seen her featured as percussionist on records and tours with huge mainstream artists including Dido and The Spice Girls. On 3rd March, Sudha prepares to step into the spotlight to showcase her skills as an accomplished writer and producer, with the release of 'Anti-Freeze’ her first solo-artist album.

'Anti Freeze’ demonstrates Sudha’s lesser known side; that of intelligent, talented and prolific songwriter / producer. Recorded in the cultural centres of London, Paris and Berlin with a host of collaborators, 'Anti Freeze’ is an electronic concept album exploring the notion of 'defrosting’, whether politically, emotionally or spiritually.

Those simply expecting a showcase of Sudha’s skills as a percussionist will be surprised to find a rich collection of songs, encompassing soaring vocals, meaningful lyrics and an overall warm vibe that envelops the listener. From the deep electronica of 'Feeling Innovation’ to the laid back grooves of 'Colours’, the experimental sounds of 'Defrost’, through to the uplifting, atmospheric 'Leche’ and the funked up anthem 'Saiko’ this is an album that grows with each listen.

Sudha was a founder member of the ground breaking Asian music project Sister India. Her Asian roots are beautifully woven into the album with melodies and samples from the likes of Shilpa Shetty and Lata Mangeshkar. These influences somehow sit easily alongside her love for old skool electro (hence the 808 drums and vintage keyboards) and simple yet beautiful, hook-laden songs.

Of course, Sudha’s skills as a percussionist are not ignored and are evident throughout, yet she uses them in an understated fashion, further demonstrating her credentials as a skilled producer and world renowned musician.

Robbie Williams is splashing out thousands of pounds to visit his dogs.

2009-05-21T01:19:00.001-07:00

Robbie Williams is splashing out thousands of pounds to visit his dogs.

The 'Angels’ singer, who recently returned to the UK from Los Angeles with girlfriend Ayda Field, misses his beloved pets Little Wallee and The Poops so much he is spending over £4,000 a month to see them while he waits for permission to bring them to England.

He wrote on his blog: 'We've come back to see the Dogs..... because of the ridiculous quarantine rules ......The Little ones and the big ones have to have Jabs then wait a whole 6 months before they re deemed fit enough(well, rabies free) to join us in England...It's a stupid law but one You can't do anything about (sic).'

Robbie – who is worth an estimated £80 million – is excited about bringing his pets to the UK but admits they are in for a surprise as he has bought some new dogs.

In a post accompanied by pictures of his new pooches, he added: 'I can't wait for them to see their new home. It’s only a month and a half and they can come with us....I do miss them but they are being well looked after by their Grandma Gwen.....they do have a surprise when they reach blighty and thats two new sisters......here's Abba bear being adorable....... And me and baby in a remake of Alien.....(sic).'

Amy Winehouse rushed to hospital

2009-05-21T01:18:00.002-07:00

Amy Winehouse was rushed to hospital after partying with friends.

The troubled singer – who is currently staying in St Lucia while she writes her third album – was reportedly taken to a medical facility by ambulance and received emergency medical treatment after a wild night of drinking on Friday (15.05.09).

Amy was discharged later that evening, but friends of the star believe her deteriorating health may jeopardise her scheduled UK show at London’s Shepherd’s Bush Empire next Sunday (31.05.09).

A source told Britain’s The Sun newspaper: 'Amy’s concert might as well be cancelled now. She’s not going to make it. It’s not worth her while even if she does make it, it will be a shambles. She is not ready for it.'

The 25-year-old star – who has publicly battled substance abuse – was hospitalised last month after she fainted in her luxurious Caribbean villa.

Her spokesperson said it was due to dehydration. Just days later, Amy broke down in tears and appeared to be intoxicated as she sang at the St Lucia Jazz Festival.

One unhappy fan said: "Amy could barely stand up, she didn't know the words to her songs. It's a disgrace. She was so drunk she didn't know where she was. She's a lost cause."

Eminem 'done' with guns

2009-05-21T01:18:00.000-07:00

Eminem is 'done' with guns.

The 'We Made You’ rapper despises firearms and doesn’t want to be around them after two of his uncles committed suicide and his best friend, rapper Proof, was shot dead.

He told the Detroit Metro Times newspaper: 'For me, personally, I mean, I'm done with guns. You know what I mean? They certainly never ever brought anything good into my life. Especially with my own family and our history of suicide and s**t like that. And my own personal experience with guns. And then you lose your best friend to guns. Guns are just bad news.'

The rapper also revealed 'Circle of Life’ singer Sir Elton John has been helping him in his battle to overcome drug addiction.

He added: 'I talk to Elton a lot. We became friends and I talk to him about things, career wise. And he had a substance abuse problem in the past. So when I first wanted to get sober, I called him and spoke to him about it because, he's somebody who's in the business and can identify and relate to the lifestyle.

'Me and him have had similar lives and stuff. So I reached out to him and told him, 'Look, I'm going through a problem and I need your advice.’ '

Meanwhile, Eminem has defended his use of an overweight Jessica Simpson character in the promo for 'We Made You’, insisting he has captured a moment in time.

He explained: 'We were going to have a chick who looked like Jessica Simpson.

'But then Jessica got fat. I mean, not really fat but she certainly got fat for Jessica Simpson!

'I think that my videos are little time capsules. So I've always wanted people to be able to look back at each video and go, 'Oh, remember what was going on at that moment! That's when Jessica Simpson got fat.’ '

Eminem felt like Bugs Bunny during rehab

2009-05-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

Eminem felt like Bugs Bunny during his stint in rehab.

The 'We Made You’ rapper admits his worldwide fame left him feeling like the iconic cartoon character when he checked into a centre in 2005 to receive treatment for drug addiction.

The star – real name Marshall Mathers - told BBC Radio One: "When I landed myself in rehab in 2005 I felt like I wanted to reassess everything. I remember sitting in rehab thinking, 'Is this what it comes to, really?'

"So when I got out I knew I needed to pull back from the spotlight because of the fame thing.

"I was like Bugs Bunny in rehab, Bugs Bunny walking in the room. The second you walk in the room,

"There were some people who were as supportive as they could be, some people that were like, 'I don't look at you as Eminem. I'm seeing you as Marshall.'"

Eminem recently revealed he wanted to kill himself at the height of his problems. He said: "I just wasn't taking care of myself, at times I wanted to just give it up.

"I was in a dark place. I wanted to pull back from the spotlight to reassess my whole career. "I got sober but it was pretty rough. A couple of years were bad for me."

Sting's wife jet's hairdresser from New York to Washington

2009-05-20T10:47:00.001-07:00

Trudie Styler paid for her hairdresser to fly by private jet from New York to Washington.

The environmental campaigner - who co-founded the Rainforest Foundation 20 years ago - has been blasted for shunning a regular flight or energy-saving Amtrak train when she and her entourage of eight, including stylist Antonio Prieto, travelled to the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday (09.05.09).

A spokesperson for the star - whose husband Sting has been using commercial airlines to fly between the US and London - told the New York Post newspaper: "The stylist was added to a previously scheduled flight to DC and flew back commercially."

Trudie added: "Yes, I do take planes. My life is to travel and my life is also to speak out about the horrors of an environment that is being abused at the hands of oil companies."

Last year, it was claimed Trudie and Sting have seven homes and "a carbon footprint estimated at 30 times that of the average UK resident".

Sting's 2006 star-studded Rainforest Foundation fundraising concert donated 41 per cent of proceeds to tree-saving programmes, compared with the 75 per cent spent by most charities.

The couple are not the only stars to be criticised for causing environmental damage. Last month, Mariah Carey was voted the "least green" celebrity by GreenDaily.com for flying her personal trainer from St. Barts on a private jet.

The site's editor explained: "People saw that as an extravagance rather than a necessity, and the consequences for the planet probably don't justify it."

Britney Spears counts cost of lavish lifestyle

2009-05-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Britney Spears has spent a staggering $10 million since last February.

The 'Womanizer' singer, who has a reported $100 million fortune, earned $12 million last year but the majority of her money was used on staff, legal fees, her lavish lifestyle and caring for her two young sons.

Her finances were revealed in papers filed by lawyers for her father Jamie, who is legally in control of her estate.

One of her main expenses was the $625,000 she paid in her ongoing custody battle with ex-husband Kevin Federline - father of Sean Preston, three, and two-year-old Jayden James.

She also spent $447,633 on security, $138,369 in credit card payments, $105,000 renting a Malibu home, $178,818 for childcare, $188,556 on assistants and employees, $285,594 on mortgage payments, $137,554 on living expenses, and $1.06 million in "miscellaneous business expenses".

In March, it was revealed Britney had spent $2.7 million in lawyers' fees in less than a year.

Lawyer Geraldine Wyle - who represents Britney's father Jamie - said: "Since the initiation of the conservatorship, as a result of the concerted efforts of Mr. Spears as well as the professionals involved, all aspects of Ms. Spears' life have been stabilised and continue to improve."

According to Wyle, Britney - who was twice held in a psychiatric ward before her father was put in control - faces "complex and challenging issues" which have run up huge costs.

However, she admitted the mother-of-two's mental health had improved over the last year and has won "substantial visitation" with her sons and her career "has been revitalised".

Britney is currently on a sold-out world tour and has been honoured with a plaque to commemorate the huge success of her latest album 'Circus'.

Leona Lewis set to split from her boyfriend

2009-05-20T10:44:00.001-07:00

Leona Lewis is reportedly set to split from her boyfriend.

The 'Bleeding Love' star has struggled to maintain her relationship with long-term love Lou Al-Chamaa while she lives in Los Angeles and he remains in London.

Friends believe Leona - who shot to fame after winning UK TV talent contest 'The X Factor' - may have already ended the romance.

A source told Britain's Star magazine: "They are still in love, but Leona's lifestyle is making things really hard.

"Her career is doing so well, but to keep growing as a singer, she has to work even harder. Unfortunately, this leaves her very little time to work on her relationship. It could already be over."

The couple - who met at school aged 10 - have not been pictured together since January.

The source added: "It is sad, but unless Leona and Lou can find a magic solution, it looks like it could be the end of the road for them."

Leona, 24, had previously been travelling between the US and UK but recently began renting a $1.5 million mansion in Los Angeles and has been spending increasing amounts of time there.

Akon to record official World Cup anthem

2009-05-20T10:43:00.001-07:00

Akon is to record the official anthem for next year's soccer World Cup.

The 'Lonely' rapper has been asked by FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) to co-ordinate the song as well as music for the opening ceremony at the South African tournament, which starts next June.

He said: "I've been hired as musical director for the World Cup. I will be overseeing the World Cup anthem and music at the ceremonies and I'm off to South Africa this week for meetings. "I love soccer so it's a great honour."

However, Akon – who says he will be supporting the host nation in the world's biggest soccer event – won't be following in the footsteps of other artists to record soccer songs by asking players to sing.

Talking about England star David Beckham, he said: "I know David, he's my man. But I'm not asking for his advice. Footballers should stick to football."

In 1990, New Order recorded the official England song 'World in Motion', which featured Liverpool star John Barnes rapping while other players, including Paul Gascoigne and Peter Beardsley, sang on the chorus.

The official song for the 2006 tournament in Germany was 'Celebrate the Day' by German actor Herbert Groenemeyer. Akon is the son of famed Senegalese percussionist Mor Thiam. The rapper split his time between America and Senegal until he moved to the US aged 15.

Eminem to continue health kick

2009-05-20T10:42:00.001-07:00

Eminem is requesting fruit and vegetables on his riders to maintain his new slimline figure.

The 'We Made You’ rapper, who recently shed 28lbs by cutting out alcohol and fatty foods, was determined to stick to his new eating regime when he flew to London to appear on hit British talk show 'Friday Night With Jonathan Ross’.

Instead of the usual calorific drinks and treats demanded by many stars, Eminem asked for skinless chicken, mineral water, raw vegetables, fresh fruit and a seafood platter.

A source close to the 36-year-old star – real name Marshall Mathers – told Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper: 'Marshall looks amazing now. He’s never really taken pride in his appearance but after getting clean, he’s quit alcohol altogether. For him, this goes hand in hand with eating sensibly.

'He used to live off fried chicken, fries, burgers and his real favourite, drumsticks. Now he’s eating only grilled meats and fish, fruit and vegetables, but no refined carbs. His riders are unrecognisable from those of four years ago.'

During his interview with Jonathan Ross, Eminem revealed he wanted to kill himself at the height of his addiction problems.

He said: "I just wasn't taking care of myself, at times I wanted to just give it up. "I was in a dark place. I wanted to pull back from the spotlight to reassess my whole career. "I got sober but it was pretty rough. A couple of years were bad for me."

Christina Aguilera’s 16-month-old son loves housework

2009-05-20T10:41:00.001-07:00

Christina Aguilera’s 16-month-old son loves doing housework.

The 'Beautiful’ singer is amazed by how much Max Liron – her first son with husband Jordan Bratman – loves cleaning and says helping in the home is his favourite pastime.

She said: 'Vacuum was one of his first words! He has a cleaning fetish and he loves to run around with a rag and dust and clean, and he loves to clean his high chair after he’s done eating. It’s so cute! I’ll lift him down and the first thing he does is to take a rag and clean off his chair. He’s mommy’s little helper.'

The 28-year-old star says Max is learning every day and is even speaking two languages – but admits she and Jordan have to be careful what they speak about in front of him, She added: 'He’s absorbing everything like a sponge right now. We have to be cautious what we’re saying around him! He’s speaking a little Spanish too. He said mama and papa months ago.'

Despite admitting her body has changed since having Max, Christina says she feels 'sexier' than ever – and her music executive spouse agrees. She said in an interview: 'Since becoming a mom, I feel I have more knowledge and that makes me feel beautiful. I feel more centered, which makes me feel confident and sexy.

'The other night, my husband and I were in the bathroom getting ready for bed. I mentioned something on my body that was different before I had the baby. I said, 'That was never like that before!’ And he said, 'Are you kidding me? That’s what makes you even sexier. The fact that you’re a mom and that your body has gone through all those changes, that makes you even sexier.’ It was such an amazing compliment.'

Rihanna writes Chris Brown break-up song

2009-05-20T10:40:00.001-07:00

Rihanna has written a song about her split from Chris Brown.

The 21-year-old beauty – whose on/off boyfriend Chris allegedly assaulted her on February 8 - is believed to have penned the track 'Silly Boy’ to warn him their relationship is over for good.

She sings: 'I said I’m not coming back / You fooled me once but you can’t have that ego turning.

'Just too bad for you, that when you had me / Didn’t know what to do, she’s over you.

'Cause you had a good girl, good girl / Girl that’s a keeper / You had a good girl, good girl but didn’t know how to treat her. 'So silly boy get out my face / Why do you like the way regrets taste?'

A demo of the song – which featured vocals from Lady Gaga - has been posted on the internet by her rapper friend Kanye West. This is not the first time Rihanna has written a song about separation and revenge.

The Barbados-born beauty was working on a track about killing a cheating partner at the time of Chris’ alleged attack on her. Rihanna had teamed up with rapper Akon for the track 'Emergency Room’, in which she dreams about seeking revenge on an unfaithful boyfriend by hospitalising him and removing his drip.

She sang: 'I’m going to leave your heart broken on the floor / You’re gonna be in the emergency room / I’m standing by your bed / And so tempted to pull out your IV.'

Last month Chris, 20, pleased not guilty to felony assault and making criminal threats in relation to his alleged attack on Rihanna.

He is accused of punching, biting and choking Rihanna until she was unconscious during an altercation in his rented silver Lamborghini.

Pink still sings of break-up that is no more

2009-05-20T10:39:00.001-07:00

Pink loves singing songs about splitting from her husband, even though they have reunited.

The 'So What’ singer – who recently got back together with motocross racer Carey Hart – admits performing tracks she wrote when they separated makes her laugh because the lyrics are so mean.

She explained: 'It’s funny to sing them now. Because he's in the audience, so when I sing 'He's a tool,’ now that's my favourite line. I’m like, 'Hi honey, that’s you!’ '

Pink’s track 'So What’ includes the lyrics: 'And guess what, I’m havin’ more fun/ And now that we’re done, I’m gonna show you tonight.'

Several other songs on her 2008 album 'Funhouse’ include lyrics about her split from Carey. After confirming her reunion with Carey, the 29-year-old singer has refused rule to out claims they are planning to reaffirm their wedding vows.

Pink said: 'Well, I do love a party!' Carey has was the first to reveal he and Pink were back together, adding they were planning to take things slowly. He has said: 'We're sorting s**t out, I admit it. She's just totally normal and low-key.

'We're on the mend and just rebuilding. That's all I can ask for right now." The couple split in February last year after two years of marriage, but neither side filed for divorce.

Madonna and Jesus Luz to wed

2009-05-20T10:38:00.001-07:00

Madonna and Jesus Luz are getting married.

The Brazilian model's father Luis Heitor Pinto da Luz has revealed the couple are planning a Kabbalah ceremony to have their union recognised by the mystical Jewish faith followed by the 50-year-old singer.

However, their union will not be legally binding.

Luis said: "The Kabbalah ceremony in New York that will link up my son Jesus Luz and Madonna only confirms that he is extremely happy.

"I don't know if there will, in fact, be a real marriage between Madonna and my son. It will be a type of ritual, but I do not know Kabbalah or if the ceremony will have legal validity."

Luis - who confirmed the couple are living together in New York - revealed his 22-year-old son has bonded well with the 'Hung Up' star's three children, Lourdes, 12, Rocco, eight and David, three.

He added to Brazil's Quem magazine: "She has small children, and Jesus helps her out with various tasks involving all of them. He plays ball with the kids. Jesus has charisma and loves children."

Despite the 28-year age gap between Madonna and Jesus, Luis insists he approves of their relationship.

He said: "I've spoken by phone with Madonna - in French, because my English is not fluent - and she appears to me to be a normal and polite person. She is feminine. I don't feel she is a harsh person."

Madonna announced last October she was divorcing British film director Guy Ritchie after almost eight years of marriage.

Kylie Minogue excited about US tour

2009-05-20T10:37:00.001-07:00

KYLIE MINOGUE said she is looking forward to touring the States now she's got over her fears.

The pop star said touring isn't as "scary" anymore and she actually enjoys it now.

Kylie, 40, who tours the US later this year, said: "I feel really very comfortable where I am at the moment and I think that's why I'm loving touring so much because it's not as scary as it used to be."

And she added that she's wanted to tour America "for the longest time" and said: "I've wanted to for ages, for the longest time, and it just never was feasible to do it.

"And I was tired of hearing myself say that, let alone answering other people's questions saying, 'Why haven't you come to the States?'

"I'm doing it simply to do it, it's not to promote anything, it's not on the back of anything else, and it's nice to have that freedom to create my show.

Alicia Keys in love with producer

2009-05-20T10:36:00.001-07:00

Alicia Keys is dating a music producer.

Hip-hop star Swizz Beatz - who is currently divorcing his estranged wife, US singer Mashonda - has confirmed he and the R'n'B beauty are in love.

He said: "What we have is so precious. But we're nowhere ready for a baby or a ring."

Rumours of their relationship have been around since last year, when the 28-year-old singer reportedly threw Swizz a birthday party at New York's Guggenheim museum.

Recent song 'Best I Ever Had' - which Swizz produced with singer Drake - has now confirmed the gossip.

The lyrics read: "Wake up in the morning and my baby cooked me breakfast/A's wearing nothing on but a necklace/Yeah, she says she wanna treat me like a king/I get big gifts so the money ain't a damn thing/She gave me a party at the Guggenheim/What's next? The ring? The baby? She really loves me!"

But the 30-year-old star - who raises a two-year-old son Kasseem Jr. with Mashonda - admits the lyrics have been fabricated a little.

He said: "This whole song is not about Alicia. The part about her cooking breakfast for me naked - she's never done that for me!"

Swizz and his estranged wife are currently embroiled in a bitter divorce. He has always denied reports Alicia was to blame for the breakdown of his marriage.

Prince dedicates song to English actress

2009-05-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

PRINCE has dedicated a new song to actress friend Kristin Scott Thomas after convincing her to go topless in his film.

The pop superstar cast Scott Thomas in his 1986 flop, Under The Cherry Moon, and talked her into taking her top off.

More than 20 years later, he said he is still a big fan of the Four Weddings and a Funeral star and wrote Better With Time for his new album MPLSound, about the her lasting looks.

The lyrics read: "This might seem strange/Since so much time has passed/And since only one of us/Still looks the same/Your words not mine, baby/You're still fine yes you are/ Like wine, you get better with time."

Scott Thomas said she was thrilled that he had penned a song about her.

Speaking to the New York Daily News, she said: "If it's true, it's fantastic. He is incredibly intelligent and talented - if he's written a song for me, it's just the most wonderful present.

"He's just brilliant, brilliant, brilliant at what he does. What's really great about getting older is that down the road you meet people you haven't seen for a long time and they're still doing something you really admire."

Scott Thomas isn't the only actress to inspire Prince - he also wrote a song about Salma Hayek for the new album.

John Lennon's artwork to be exhibitioned

2009-05-20T10:34:00.001-07:00

AN EXHIBITION of John Lennon's artwork opens free to the public next week.

A complete collection of drawings by the late Beatle will be on display at The Gallery in Cork Street, Mayfair, London, from Wednesday 27th to Saturday 30th May.

There are 180 pieces of artwork on display, including 12 originals on loan from his wife Yoko Ono.

Fans will also be able to have the chance to purchase 14 recently released drawings that will be in sale for about £500.

Lennon saved and curated several hundred drawings at the time of his death in December 1980.

In 1986, Yoko Ono began releasing some as a limited edition using only fine art printing techniques, with the goal of re-establishing John Lennon as an important artist of the 20th century.

Lennon began drawing long before he had a guitar and attended the prestigious Liverpool Art Institute for three years (1957-60) before music became a full-time career.

But he continued to draw throughout his life, his primary medium being line drawing either in pen, pencil or Japanese sumi ink.

A complete suite of the 'Bag One' portfolio is in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. His original drawings have also been displayed by museums throughout the world.

Mariah Carey takes entourage to Cannes Film Festival

2009-05-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

Mariah Carey has paid for her entourage to attend the Cannes Film Festival.

The 'Touch My Body’ singer – who is renowned for her diva-like behaviour – was told there were not enough free tickets for her staff to attend the prestigious event and see her new movie 'Precious’.

Rather than be separated from her team, Mariah shelled out for a number of exclusive passes to ensure they could all go together.

A source told Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper: 'Mariah’s really close with her team and couldn’t bear the thought of a couple of people not being able to come, so she paid for it out of her pocket. That’s virtually unheard of in the celebrity world.'

The 39-year-old singer, who plays a dowdy social worker in 'Precious’, revealed she is overwhelmed by how well the film has been received.

She said: 'The only reactions from fans who have seen the trailer and twittered me have said the movie’s amazing.'

Mariah – who married Nick Cannon last year – insists her fans and loved-ones are not put off by her plain appearance in the film.

She explained: 'No one has said, 'Girl, I can’t believe you are with those dark circles under your eyes and wearing a wig and looking nasty.’

"My husband's response was over-the-top supportive and amazing. It was not like 'I cannot believe you let yourself look like that in the movie.' "

Bob Dylan's dead dog poem for sale

2009-05-20T10:32:00.001-07:00

A POEM about a dead dog written by a teenage Bob Dylan is to be sold at auction.

The verse, entitled Little Buddy and handwritten by the singer when he was 16, is expected to fetch up to $15,000 (£9,660).

Dylan was still going by his given name Bob Zimmerman when he wrote the two-page poem in 1957 during a stay at summer camp in Wisconsin, US.

Christie's auction house said the poem was about the murder of a boy's dog, and was "dark and mournful".

It reads: "I'll meet my precious buddy up in the sky / By a tiny narrow grave / Where the willows sadly wave."

Dylan wrote the piece for Herzl Herald, which was the summer camp's newspaper.

Lisa Heilicher, editor of the camp's Herzl Herald, kept the handwritten original, but decided to sell it to help raise funds for the camp.

She said: "I kept it with all of my stuff that I collected from camp. When I realised how famous he had become, I put it in a piece of plastic and stuck it in an encyclopedia."

Dylan himself authorised the sale, telling officials to "do what you want with [the poem]",

Kate Hudson 'making out' with Madonna's ex

2009-05-20T10:30:00.001-07:00

Kate Hudson has been seen "making out" with Madonna's rumoured ex-boyfriend.

The 'Bride Wars' actress and New York Yankees baseball star Alex 'A-Rod' Rodriguez couldn't keep their hands off each other as they enjoyed an intimate date at New York's Mustang Grill restaurant last weekend.

An onlooker told the New York Post newspaper: "Staff were asking patrons not to go in the back room around 1am because A-Rod and Kate Hudson were back there making out."
A waitress also confirmed the pair were at the eatery, celebrating Alex's team's win. She said: "Yes, they were here together."

Other sources claim the smitten couple were spotted outside Alex's apartment block.

Alex, 33, and his wife Cynthia - with who he has two daughters - split in 2008 after she claimed he had "an affair of the heart" with Madonna.

Kate, 30 - who has a five-year-old son, Ryder, with ex-husband Chris Robinson - was recently linked to ex-boyfriend Owen Wilson, who she has dated on/off since 2007.

Katie Price throws out Peter Andre’s stuff

2009-05-20T10:29:00.001-07:00

Katie Price has ordered Peter Andre’s belongings to be thrown out of their home.

The British glamour model has told housekeepers to remove all of her estranged husband’s possessions from their £2.5 million house in Surrey, Southern England, ahead of her return today (20.05.09).

A source told Britain’s The Sun newspaper: 'Katie’s still very hurt after Pete dumped her and wants to get him back. She phoned up and was screaming down the phone at staff to get rid of all his stuff.

'They were asking what she wanted out and she was screaming, 'Everything, everything!’ None of them wanted to do it to Pete, because he’s been kind. But Katie didn’t really leave them much choice.'

Katie – known as Jordan – made the angry phone call from the Maldives, where she fled to hours after news of the couple’s split broke last week.

Peter has also been out of the UK, choosing to spend time in Cyprus with his family in the wake of the separation.

Upon his return today, the 36-year-old singer will find his belongings – which include designer clothes, precious family photos, jewellery, gym equipment and the first copies of some of his CDs – gone. The source added: 'Peter is in for a bit of a shock.

Everything he owns has been taken from the home and put into storage.'

The couple are set to meet back in England tomorrow (21.05.09) to discuss arrangements for the children they raise together – son Junior, three, 23-month old daughter Princess Tiaamii and Katie’s son Harvey, six, from a previous relationship.

Meanwhile, Katie has insisted she will not cry for Peter anymore and is already planning to move on, just nine days after they separated.
The 30-year-old beauty said: 'No other guy has made me cry as much as Pete. But I’m not going to shed another tear over him. I don’t want us to split up. I love my husband but I can’t sit around crying. This is a new story and new chapter in my life.'

Beyonce on a mission to lose weight

2009-05-20T10:28:00.001-07:00

Beyonce Knowles buys clothes which are too small for her as a motivation to lose weight.

The singer-and-actress, who is famed for her curvy figure, admits it takes a lot of hard work for her to stay in shape so she needs to have a goal.

She said: "I buy something too small and then say, 'I have a reason.' I need to wear these jeans or this hot dress."

The 27-year-old beauty also says her dream of winning an Oscar drives her on when she is working out. Talking about a painting in her gym which features the famous gold statue, she revealed: "I look at it, and I'm like, 'OK, I have to stay in shape.' "

Although she would like to lose a few pounds, Beyonce - who is married to hip-hop star Jay-Z - admits she wasn't happy when she shed 15lbs to play Deena Jones in 'Dreamgirls'.

She added to Self magazine: "I felt very chic, like a model. But it didn't look natural for me. I didn't feel very sexy or feminine, and I didn't have much confidence because I didn't feel like myself."

Britney sued by bodyguard

2009-05-20T10:27:00.001-07:00

Britney Spears’ ex-bodyguard is suing her.

In court documents filmed on Monday (18.05.09), Kerry Vine claims he was hurt while working at her former home in Los Angeles in March 2008.

The documents state: 'Advanced Security Concepts negligently operated their business thereby causing injuries to Vine who worked for Spears at the time. Spears breached that duty of care to the plaintiff by failing to ensure that he could safely perform duties that Advanced Security Concepts ordered him to perform."

Kerry is suing for personal injury, battery and negligence which he claims caused him to lose wages and incur medical and hospital costs. He also alleges loss of personal property and earning capacity.

A hearing will take place on September 2. This is the latest legal issue to befall Britney. Last month, she was granted a restraining order against her former manager Sam Lutfi which banned him from being within 100 yards of her for three years.

Sam is also barred from trying to contact the 27-year-old singer via email, phone or mail.

Lawyer Jon Eardley - who previously questioned why Britney's father Jamie was made co-conservator of her professional and personal affairs last year – is also included in the same restraining order.

The Saturdays

2009-05-20T01:16:00.000-07:00

Based on the premise that pop music needed a “kick in the arse,” The Saturdays formed to make accessible pop music fit for the dance floor -- and they succeeded. Almost instantly after forming, the band landed opening spots for Girls Aloud and The Jonas Brothers, and performed at parties thrown by Perez Hilton and gay advocacy groups. All of this garnered them enough recognition to start landing top 10 hits of their own.

The Saturdays consist of some of the former members of S Club 8, and they’ve proven to be a pop powerhouse in their own right.

the saturdays release chasing lights
The Saturdays’ debut album, Chasing Lights, was released in October 2008. Receiving largely favorable reviews, the album climbed to No. 9 on the UK charts and spawned four top 10 singles. The album’s second single, “Up,” appeared in an advertising campaign for the TV series Ugly Betty.

the saturdays have big plans for 2009
In 2009, The Saturdays plan to release their second album. This time around, the girls are doing some of the songwriting and have told their fans to expect a more mature record. At this time, The Saturdays have yet to release any material in North America, but that's also in the works for 2009. Perhaps their biggest plan for this year, though, is their own headlining tour, which will be a first in the group’s short history.

Quotes

"I don't go anywhere without my video camcorder, which drives everyone round the bend!"
- Mollie King of The Saturdays

http://blogs.nypost.com/popwrap/archives/melikey/

Lissy Trullie

2009-05-20T01:03:00.000-07:00

The Washington D.C. native moved to New York with her mother when she was 16 years old. After attending Walnut Hill, a boarding school for the performing arts just outside of Boston, Trullie moved back to the city to study graphic design at Parsons. She began playing weird art openings and grimy loft parties around Brooklyn before being sucked into the black leather, skinny jeans-wearing downtown crowd. After befriending the likes of The Virgins frontman Donald Cummings and music impresario Mark Ronson, and booking a DJ gig at friend Paul Sevigny's ultra-exclusive Beatrice Inn -- where she spun marginal art-rock tracks to the delight of drunk starlets -- Lissy Trullie had staked her claim as New York's freshest homegrown star.

lissy trullie dj's at the beatrice inn
As a fresh-faced struggling musician in New York, Lissy chose to befriend the cool kids rather than mimic them. And how did she avoid getting rejected at all the coolest clubs in town? Simple: She became the DJ. When longtime friend Paul Sevigny (Chloe Sevigny's brother) opened his intimate booze den the Beatrice Inn in New York's ritzy West Village, he turned to his stunning friend with the impeccable taste to provide the tunes. When the Beatrice Inn became the choice bar for celeb-spotting in New York, and its stringent guest list made it nearly impossible to get in, Lissy became something of a mythic figure. Just dropping her name could determine whether revelers would spend their night cutting a rug next to Lindsay Lohan or drowning their sorrows with a Corner Bistro burger across the street.

lissy trullie becomes the face of moises de la renta's mdlr
Every fashion designer needs a muse. Moises de la Renta -- son of legendary designer Oscar -- found his in Lissy Trullie. After meeting Trullie at the Beatrice Inn, de la Renta asked her to be the face of his new line MDLR. Having already inspired Phillip Lim's 2009 collection and modeled for Elle magazine, Trullie knew how to carry herself in front of a camera. MLDR's affordable luxury line is infused with rock sensibilities, the same ones that have been ingrained in Trullie since she picked up a guitar at age four, making her a perfect fit for the upcoming collection. Now that Trullie has graced the pages of MDLR's latest look book, expect to see girls in a little black dress, a Swiss-dot hoodie, stretch-leather pants, and a biker jacket with removable sleeves coming soon to a rock club near you.

lissy trullie goes on tour
After conquering make-you or break-you New York venues like Santos' Party House and Bungalow 8, and releasing her debut EP Self-Taught Learner on Brooklyn-based indie label American Myth Recordings to rave reviews, Trullie and her bandmates embarked on a tour with good friends The Virgins. This summer, Trullie aims to take her unique brand of disaffected girl-rock overseas as she again hooks up with The Virgins and Anya Marina! on a tour that will take her across the U.S. and through Europe. Next stop: Rolling Stone cover.

Quotes
"I like to test out songs on my twelve-year-old cousins and my 70-year-old grandparents. If they like them, then I'm super-psyched. I'm proud when people outside my age or world are into my music. That's when I can feel like I've actually done something."
- Lissy Trullie

http://www.zimbio.com/

Working on a Dream Bruce Springsteen

2009-05-19T03:54:00.000-07:00

Having been indoctrinated into the fold in '84 after seeing them live for the first time (I've been to many, many shows since), I'm pretty psyched that they're playing the Superbowl. Here's my song by song synopsis of the new album, "Working on a Dream".
'Outlaw Pete'-Always a master of the epic story song, Bruce doesn't dissapoint here at all. We've been to circuses, carnivals, city streets and back alleys, front porches, and boardwalks with Bruce, but, this is the first 'old west' themed storyline I can recall. Being from Kentucky, I find it cool that Pete comes from the "Appalachian Trail". This one's a little cornball at first, with Pete robbing the bank in his diaper and all, but, that just helps set up the story. The theme of this whole album, whether intentional or not, it 'time'. Here in this song, boys and girls, the lesson is: No matter what you do, you can't escape your past. You can't run from it. Instead you must find way to deal with it before you move on because like it or not, it becomes a part of who you are forever. Great song. Ranks among his best.
'My Lucky Day'-A great upbeat rocker. Wouldn't have sounded out of place on "Born in the USA".
'Working on a Dream'-Nice song. Used on a couple of late stops on the campaign trail.
'Queen of the Supermarket'-Lyrically, this one's a departure. Seems there may be more going on at the local Kroger than milk, cereal, and meat purchases. This'll be some folks' favorite. Not mine. I haven't really 'gotten' it yet. The surprisingly blatant "F" bomb he throws at the end is an intentional surprise. I'll have to skip this one when the kiddies are present.
'What Love Can Do'-Catchy hook. Some nice guitar work. Other than the "sunny" lyrics, this wouldn't have sounded out of place on 'Magic', musically.
'This Life'-Some critics will say this one's overproduced. I disagree. If anything, more of the Beach Boys type harmonies would have been welcomed. Wait'll you here this intro. It takes the layered sound that they were shooting for on 'Girls in their Summer Clothes' to a whole other level. In fact, the music on this is so much like the Beach Boys, it ain't even funny. Great song, and something different.
'Good Eye'-Now I know why Bruce counts Howlin' Wolf and Muddy Waters as some of his all time favorite singers. Bruce does the Delta Blues here. He's found a place for that fuzzbox vocal that first showed up on the D&D tour for "Reason to Believe". This one's awesome, and another musical departure.
'Tomorrow Never Knows'-Steve Earle doesn't sound this much like Steve Earle anymore.
'Life Itself'-I've been playing this one over and over for the past couple of weeks now. I love the jingle jangle Byrds sound they're getting out of the guitars on the breaks. Yet another musical stretch.
'Kingdom of Days'-Another one about 'time', and it's effect on our lives. Use it wisely. This one sounds like a lot of the stuff on 'Magic' as well.
'Surprise, Surprise'-This might be my least favorite so far. Nice hook, though.
'Last Carnival'-This one had to have been written with Danny Federici in mind. If you're a long time E Street Band fan, this one'll put a lump in your throat.
'The Wrestler'-Thanks to Mickey Rourke for asking for a song for "The Wrestler". Otherwise, we might never have gotten this one. Great. Very somber. But, danged if I ain't ever seen a one legged dog making it's way down the street. Maybe two legs, or three, yeah, but, a one legged dog? I'm going to youtube now.
"WOAD", in my opinion, is yet another sonic and lyrical masterpiece from the Earth Shakin', Soul Stirrin', Tongues a Waggin', Tail's a Rockin', mighty Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. I might add that you can hear Federici all over the place on this whole album. I've loved most all of Bruce's stuff over the years, and the "Tunnel of Love" album was no exception, but, I remember when it came out, I searched frantically for any sign of "the band" in there, and it just wasn't happening for me. Little did we know back then...

No Line On The Horizon U2

2009-05-19T03:52:00.000-07:00

The Irish band's 12th studio album was originally slated to come out before the end of last year, but the band pulled it back to mold and twist it some more, after the original material recorded with Rick Rubin was shelved.
They've been rocking since the early 80s, when it comes to stadium-filling anthems, there's no challenger to U2's crown.
It's been a while since their last release, 2004's "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb", but it's been worth the wait.
The result is 11 songs that thematically seem to have no link (although being lost surfaces quite a few times), but sonically unite the many sides of U2: the boys from get back to basics with their strongest offering in years. It was recorded in Dublin, New York, London and Fès, Morocco (but the rumoured North African influences are hardly audible).
Comfortingly, the production comes courtesy of Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois and Steve Lillywhite.
There may be some quibble as to whether this is the best U2 album since Eno and Lanois first worked with the band on 1984's "The Unforgettable Fire".
It starts out blustery and familiar, before gradually revealing an unexpected and almost lovable sense of vulnerability.
"Magnificent" with its drum crescendos, trademark guitar riffs and a soaring Bono vocal is easily the best thing here and is crying out to be released as a single.
There is the odd moment of rocking swagger which seems to be U2's way of saying that they are not too old to pull on the leather trousers yet - the trashy rock of "Get On Your Boots" and "Stand Up Comedy", the latter hinting at the muscular funk-infused rock of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
"Get On Your Boots", the album's lead single, is actually a good track : if this fails to get your foot tapping, we doubt anything will.
"Breathe" suggests that the band's classic approach can still sound contemporary.
And the albums ends in contemplative mood with "Cedars Of Lebanon", a Lanois-style soundscape, which takes shape amid a sonic fug that mirrors the exhaustion of its war reporter narrator: "Child drinking dirty water from the riverbank/ Soldier brings oranges he got out from a tank".
"Breathe" suggests that the band's classic approach can still sound contemporary.
Lyrics like 'the right to appear ridiculous is something I hold dear' on "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight" show that they still have a sense of humour.
Apart from a couple of the tracks being a bit too long and the album cover being a bit boring, the album - over 54 minutes - is a worthy addition to their catalogue.
"No Line on the Horizon is a bold, beautiful and highly speculative re-imagining of U2's music". - Telegraph
"The slower, meditative efforts where Bono sings rather than screams are surprisingly lovely and hint at a future of Rubin-era Johnny Cash potential. U2 are at their strongest when they play their age but when they try and rock, it's irrelevant and cringeworthy".- L. Bazley
My favourite tracks: "Moment Of Surrender", "Unknown Caller", "Breathe" and "Cedars Of Lebanon"

21st Century Breakdown Green Day

2009-05-19T03:50:00.000-07:00

I had a hard time accepting this new album, as I loved American Idiot and didn't think it could be topped . . . further, I wasn't too excited about the whole "Christian and Gloria" narrative, etc. But I've found that, with repeated listens, the songs have really grown on me. And the narrative is so loose, and Christian and Gloria are referenced so infrequently, that there were times when I forgot I was listening to a "rock opera." This album is not as fun as American Idiot, it is more contemplative and introspective. And, with a few exceptions, it doesn't have the light-heartedness of earlier Green Day material. That's why you have to give it some time. The guys wanted to do something a little different (heck, they've been at this for 20 years). I personally feel like this album came from the heart, and that's why I listened to it two to three times to let it grow on me before making up my mind about it.

The following songs are my favorites:
1) Horseshoes and Handgrenades. I think this song has the most menacing "f$#k you" energy of any Green Day song ever. East Jesus Nowhere is also quite good, for similar reasons.
2) Last Night on Earth. I'm not usually one for ballads, but this one is very beautiful. It was written by Billie Joe for his wife . . .
3) 21st Century Breakdown. This hook grows on you, it has a sunny, grooving quality to it even though the lyrics are kinda pessimistic.
4) "Before the Lobotomy" also starts out as a serious ballad . . . again, not my favorite type of music usually. The track morphs into something else and then the ballad material returns, but set to a backbeat and distorted guitars. It sounds very powerful at the end.
5) Restless Heart Syndrome . . . another haunting ballad that improves with each listen.
6) 21 Guns. This has a great "everyone put your lighter in the air" vibe. I think this will sound excellent live.

There were other good moments on the album, too. I'm just getting too tired to type more :) And, at the risk of beating you over the head with a stick . . . give this album 2-3 listens and let the material sink in. You will be glad you did.

Madonna

2009-05-18T05:46:00.000-07:00

After a star reaches a certain point, it's easy to forget what they became famous for and concentrate solely on their persona. Madonna is such a star. Madonna rocketed to stardom so quickly in 1984 that it obscured most of her musical virtues. Appreciating her music became even more difficult as the decade wore on, as discussing her lifestyle became more common than discussing her music. However, one of Madonna's greatest achievements is how she manipulated the media and the public with her music, her videos, her publicity, and her sexuality. Arguably, Madonna was the first female pop star to have complete control of her music and image.

Madonna moved from her native Michigan to New York in 1977, with dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. She studied with choreographer Alvin Ailey and modeled. In 1979, she became part of the Patrick Hernandez Revue, a disco outfit that had the hit "Born to Be Alive." She traveled to Paris with Hernandez; it was there that she met Dan Gilroy, who would soon become her boyfriend. Upon returning to New York, the pair formed the Breakfast Club, a pop/dance group. Madonna originally played drums for the band, but she soon became the lead singer. In 1980, she left the band and formed Emmy with her former boyfriend, drummer Stephen Bray. Soon, Bray and Madonna broke off from the group and began working on some dance/disco-oriented tracks. A demo tape of these tracks worked its way to Mark Kamins, a New York-based DJ/producer. Kamins directed the tape to Sire Records, which signed the singer in 1982.

Kamins produced Madonna's first single, "Everybody," which became a club and dance hit at the end of 1982; her second single, 1983's "Physical Attraction," was another club hit. In June of 1983, she had her third club hit with the bubbly "Holiday," which was written by Jellybean Benitez. Madonna's self-titled debut album was released in September of 1983; "Holiday" became her first Top 40 hit the following month. "Borderline" became her first Top Ten hit in March of 1984, beginning a remarkable string of 17 consecutive Top Ten hits. While "Lucky Star" was climbing to number four, Madonna began working on her first starring role in a feature film, Susan Seidelman's Desperately Seeking Susan.

Madonna's second album, the Niles Rodgers-produced Like a Virgin, was released at the end of 1984. The title track hit number one in December, staying at the top of the charts for six weeks; it was the start of a whirlwind year for the singer. During 1985, Madonna became an international celebrity, selling millions of records on the strength of her stylish, sexy videos and forceful personality. After "Material Girl" became a number two hit in March, Madonna began her first tour, supported by the Beastie Boys. "Crazy for You" became her second number one single in May. Desperately Seeking Susan was released in July, becoming a box office hit; it also prompted a planned video release of A Certain Sacrifice, a low-budget erotic drama she filmed in 1979. A Certain Sacrifice wasn't the only embarrassing skeleton in the closet dragged into the light during the summer of 1985 -- both Playboy and Penthouse published nude photos of Madonna that she posed for in 1977. Nevertheless, her popularity continued unabated, with thousands of teenage girls adopting her sexy appearance, being dubbed "Madonna wannabes." In August, she married actor Sean Penn; the couple had a rocky marriage that ended in 1989.

Madonna began collaborating with Patrick Leonard at the beginning of 1986; Leonard would co-write most of her biggest hits in the '80s, including "Live to Tell," which hit number one in June of 1986. A more ambitious and accomplished record than her two previous albums, True Blue was released the following month, to both more massive commercial success (it was a number one in both the U.S. and the U.K., selling over five million copies in America alone) and critical acclaim. "Papa Don't Preach" became her fourth number one hit in the U.S. While her musical career was thriving, her film career took a savage hit with the November release of Shanghai Surprise. Starring Madonna and Sean Penn, the comedy received terrible reviews, which translated into disastrous box office returns.

At the beginning of 1987, she had her fifth number one single with "Open Your Heart," the third number one from True Blue alone. The title cut from the soundtrack of her third feature film, Who's That Girl?, was another chart-topping hit, although the film itself was another box office bomb. 1988 was a relatively quiet year for Madonna as she spent the first half of the year acting in David Mamet's +Speed the Plow on Broadway. In the meantime, she released the remix album You Can Dance. After withdrawing the divorce papers she filed at the beginning of 1988, she divorced Penn at the beginning of 1989.

Like a Prayer, released in the spring of 1989, was her most ambitious and far-reaching album, incorporating elements of pop, rock, and dance. It was another number one hit and launched the number one title track as well as "Express Yourself," "Cherish," and "Keep It Together," three more Top Ten hits. In April 1990, she began her massive Blonde Ambition tour, which ran throughout the entire year. "Vogue" became a number one hit in May, setting the stage for her co-starring role in Warren Beatty's Dick Tracy; it was her most successful film appearance since Desperately Seeking Susan. Madonna released a greatest-hits album, The Immaculate Collection, at the end of the year. It featured two new songs, including the number one single "Justify My Love," which sparked another controversy with its sexy video; the second new song, "Rescue Me," became the highest-debuting single by a female artist in U.S. chart history, entering the charts at number 15. Truth or Dare, a documentary of the Blonde Ambition tour, was released to positive reviews and strong ticket sales during the spring of 1991.

Madonna returned to the charts in the summer of 1992 with the number one "This Used to Be My Playground," a single featured in the film A League of Their Own, which featured the singer in a small part. Later that year, Madonna released -Sex, an expensive, steel-bound soft-core pornographic book that featured hundreds of erotic photographs of herself, several models, and other celebrities -- including Isabella Rossellini, Big Daddy Kane, Naomi Campbell, and Vanilla Ice -- as well as selected prose. -Sex received scathing reviews and enormous negative publicity, yet that didn't stop the accompanying album, Erotica, from selling over two million copies. Bedtime Stories, released two years later, was a more subdued affair than Erotica. Initially, it didn't chart as impressively, prompting some critics to label her a has-been, yet the album spawned her biggest hit, "Take a Bow," which spent seven weeks at number one. It also featured the Björk-penned "Bedtime Stories," which became her first single not to make the Top 40; its follow-up, "Human Nature," also failed to crack the Top 40. Nevertheless, Bedtime Stories marked her seventh album to go multi-platinum.

Beginning in 1995, Madonna began one of her most subtle image makeovers as she lobbied for the title role in the film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's +Evita. Backing away from the overt sexuality of Erotica and Bedtime Stories, Madonna recast herself as an upscale sophisticate, and the compilation Something to Remember fit into the plan nicely. Released in the fall of 1995, around the same time she won the coveted role of Evita Peron, the album was comprised entirely of ballads, designed to appeal to the mature audience that would also be the target of Evita. As the filming completed, Madonna announced she was pregnant and her daughter, Lourdes, was born late in 1996, just as Evita was scheduled for release. The movie was greeted with generally positive reviews and Madonna began a campaign for an Oscar nomination that resulted in her winning the Golden Globe for Best Actress (Musical or Comedy), but not the coveted Academy Award nomination. The soundtrack for Evita, however, was a modest hit, with a dance remix of "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" and the newly written "You Must Love Me" both becoming hits.

During 1997, she worked with producer William Orbit on her first album of new material since 1994's Bedtime Stories. The resulting record, Ray of Light, was heavily influenced by electronica, techno, and trip-hop, thereby updating her classic dance-pop sound for the late '90s. Ray of Light received uniformly excellent reviews upon its March 1998 release and debuted at number two on the charts. Within a month, the record was shaping up to be her biggest album since Like a Prayer. Two years later she returned with Music, which reunited her with Orbit and also featured production work from Mark "Spike" Stent and Mirwais, a French electro-pop producer/musician in the vein of Daft Punk and Air.

The year 2000 also saw the birth of Madonna's second child, Rocco, whom she had with filmmaker Guy Ritchie; the two married at the very end of the year. With Ritchie as director and Madonna as star, the pair released a remake of the film Swept Away in 2002. It tanked at the box office, failing to crack seven digits, making it one of the least profitable films of the year. Her sober 2003 album, American Life, fared slightly better but was hardly a huge success. That same year also saw the release of Madonna's successful children's book, -The English Roses, which was followed by several more novels in future years. Confessions on a Dance Floor marked her return to music, specifically to the dance-oriented material that had made her a star. Released in late 2005, it topped the Billboard charts and was accompanied by a worldwide tour in 2006, the same year that I'm Going to Tell You a Secret, a CD/DVD made during her Re-Invention Tour, came out. In 2007, Madonna released another CD/DVD, Confessions Tour, this time chronicling her controversial tour of the same name. She then inched closer to the completion of her Warner Bros contract with 2008's Hard Candy, an R&B album whose first single, "4 Minutes", topped the singles charts in several countries.

http://www.gomadonna.com/
http://madonnafan.org/
http://www.askmen.com/women/singer/5_madonna.html

Alanis Morissette

2009-05-18T05:38:00.000-07:00

Alanis Morissette was one of the most unlikely stars of the mid-'90s. A former child actress turned dance-pop diva, Morissette later transformed herself into a confessional alternative singer/songwriter in the vein of Liz Phair and Tori Amos. However, she bolstered that formula with enough pop sensibility, slight hip-hop flourishes, and marketing savvy to become a superstar with her third album, Jagged Little Pill.

Morissette was born in Ottawa, Canada, and began playing piano and writing songs during her childhood years. She also joined the cast of You Can't Do That on Television, a children's television program. Using money that she earned on the show, Morissette recorded an independent single, "Fate Stay with Me," which was released when she was only ten years old. Morissette then concentrated on a musical career after leaving the show's cast, signing a music publishing contract when she was 14. The publishing contract led to a record deal with MCA Canada, and Morissette moved to Toronto before releasing her debut album, Alanis, in 1991.

Alanis was a collection of pop-oriented dance numbers and ballads that found success in Canada, selling over 100,000 copies and earning the singer a Juno Award for Most Promising Female Artist. However, no other country paid much attention to the record. In 1992, Morissette released Now Is the Time, an album that closely resembled her debut. Like its predecessor, it was a success in Canada, even if its sales did not match those of Alanis. Following the release of Now Is the Time, Morissette relocated to Los Angeles, where she met veteran producer Glen Ballard in early 1994. Ballard had previously written Michael Jackson's hit single "Man in the Mirror," produced Wilson Phillips' hit debut album, and worked with actor/musician David Hasselhoff. The two decided to work together, and despite their shared experience with mainstream pop, they opted instead to pursue an edgier, alternative rock-oriented direction. The result was Jagged Little Pill, which was released in 1995 on Madonna's label, Maverick Records.

On the strength of the angst-ridden single "You Oughta Know," Jagged Little Pill gained attention upon its release in the summer of 1995. The song soon received heavy airplay from alternative radio outlets and MTV, sending the album into the Top Ten and helping it achieve multi-platinum status. Jagged Little Pill's subsequent singles -- "Hand in My Pocket," "All I Really Want," "You Learn," "Ironic," and "All I Really Want" -- kept the album in the Top Ten for an astounding 69 weeks, and Alanis Morissette was nominated for six Grammys in early 1996. She won several of those awards, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year.

While she never managed to replicate the success of Jagged Little Pill, Morissette continued to release well-received albums into the 21st century. Her much-anticipated follow-up, Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie, was released in the autumn of 1998, setting a record for the highest first-week sales by a female artist. An Unplugged set appeared a year later and featured a cover of the Police's "King of Pain," while 2002's Under Rug Swept saw Morissette writing and producing without the help of collaborators. So-Called Chaos followed in 2004. A year later, she took Jagged Little Pill on the road as an acoustic tour. Those tour dates led to the release of Jagged Little Pill Acoustic, an album originally (and tellingly) sold exclusively through Starbucks outlets. Morissette and her fans had grown up, and Collection -- an 18-track retrospective of her work -- followed in November 2005. But Morissette wasn't done, returning in 2008 with her seventh studio effort (and fifth international release), Flavors of Entanglement.

http://www.alanismorissette.nu/
http://www.rocknroll.net/gallery/alanis/index.html
http://www.absolutely.net/Alanis_Morissette/

Mariah Carey

2009-05-18T05:30:00.000-07:00

The best-selling female performer of the 1990s, Mariah Carey rose to superstardom on the strength of her stunning five-octave voice; an elastic talent who moved easily from glossy ballads to hip-hop-inspired dance-pop, she earned frequent comparison to rivals Whitney Houston and Celine Dion, but did them both one better by composing all of her own material. Born in Long Island, NY, on March 27, 1970, Carey moved to New York City at the age of 17 -- just one day after graduating high school -- to pursue a music career; there she befriended keyboardist Ben Margulies, with whom she began writing songs. Her big break came as a backing vocalist on a studio session with dance-pop singer Brenda K. Starr, who handed Carey's demo tape to Columbia Records head Tommy Mottola at a party. According to legend, Mottola listened to the tape in his limo while driving home that same evening, and was so immediately struck by Carey's talent that he doubled back to the party to track her down.

After signing to Columbia, Carey entered the studio to begin work on her 1990 self-titled debut LP; the heavily promoted album was a chart-topping smash, launching no less than four number one singles: "Vision of Love," "Love Takes Time," "Someday," and "I Don't Wanna Cry." Her overnight success earned Grammy awards as Best New Artist and Best Female Vocalist, and expectations were high for Carey's follow-up, 1991's Emotions. The album did not disappoint, as the title track reached number one -- a record fifth consecutive chart-topper -- while both "Can't Let Go" and "Make It Happen" landed in the Top Five. Carey's next release was 1992's MTV Unplugged EP, which generated a number one cover of the Jackson 5's "I'll Be There." Featured on the track was backup singer Trey Lorenz, whose appearance immediately helped him land a recording contract of his own.

In June 1993, Carey wed Mottola -- some two decades her senior -- in a headline-grabbing ceremony; months later she released her third full-length effort, Music Box, her best-selling record to date. Two more singles, "Dreamlover" and "Hero," reached the top spot on the charts. Carey's first tour followed and was widely panned by critics; undaunted, she resurfaced in 1994 with a holiday release titled Merry Christmas, scoring a seasonal smash with "All I Want for Christmas Is You." 1995's Daydream reflected a new artistic maturity; the first single, "Fantasy," debuted at number one, making Carey the first female artist and just the second performer ever to accomplish the feat. The follow-up, "One Sweet Day" -- a collaboration with Boyz II Men -- repeated the trick, and remained lodged at the top of the charts for a record 16 weeks.

After separating from Mottola, Carey returned in 1997 with Butterfly, another staggering success and her most hip-hop-flavored recording to date. 1's -- a collection featuring her 13 previous chart-topping singles as well as "The Prince of Egypt (When You Believe)," a duet with Whitney Houston effectively pairing the two most successful female recording artists in pop history -- followed late the next year. With "Heartbreaker," the first single from her 1999 album Rainbow, Carey became the first artist to top the charts in each year of the 1990s; the record also pushed her ahead of the Beatles as the artist with the most cumulative weeks spent atop the Hot 100 singles chart.

However, the early 2000s weren't as kind to Carey. After signing an 80-million-dollar deal in 2001 with Virgin -- the biggest record contract ever -- she experienced a very public personal and professional meltdown that included rambling; suicidal messages on her website; an appearance on TRL where, clad only in a T-shirt, she handed out Popsicles to the audience; and last but not least, the poorly received movie Glitter and its attendant soundtrack (which was also her Virgin Records debut). Both the film and the album did poorly critically as well as commercially, with Glitter making just under four million dollars in its total U.S. gross and the soundtrack struggling to make gold sales. Following these setbacks, Virgin and Carey parted ways early in 2002, with the label paying her 28 million dollars. That spring, she found a new home with Island/Def Jam, where she set up her own label, MonarC Music. In December, she released her ninth album, Charmbracelet, which failed to become a success. Although she took nearly three years for a follow-up, Carey found a hit with 2005's chart-topping The Emancipation of Mimi, her most successful record in years. Released by Island Records, the album climbed to multi-platinum status and earned Carey a Grammy Award, thus restoring her status as a megastar in the R&B arena. Two weeks before the release of her subsequent album, E=MC², Carey scored her eighteenth number-one hit with "Touch My Body", a feat that pushed her into second place (past Elvis, no less) amongst all aritsts with the most chart-topping singles. The well-timed accomplished also increased the public's appetite for E=MC², which arrived in April 2008.

http://www.askmen.com/women/singer/4_mariah_carey.html
http://us.imdb.com/name/nm0001014/bio
http://www.mariahcareysite.com/album.htm

Ciara

2009-05-18T05:22:00.000-07:00

Dubbed the "First Lady of Crunk & B" by the producer who should know, Lil Jon, singer Ciara burst onto the scene with the never-gonna-get-it single "Goodies," the breathy "answer song" to Petey Pablo's "Freek-a-Leek." She was born in Austin, TX, but with her father in the Army, Ciara spent time living in Germany, New York, California, Arizona, and Nevada before landing in Atlanta. In her early teens, she got a piece of paper out and wrote down her life's goal, to become a professional singer. She joined a girl group, worked on her songwriting, left the group, landed a publishing deal, and found a "music soul mate" when she met producer Jazze Pha. With Sean Garrett, the co-writer of Usher's massive hit "Yeah!," Ciara co-wrote "Goodies," and when Lil Jon heard the demo, he knew it was going to be big. LaFace released the Lil Jon-produced track in the summer of 2004, and its quick climb to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 was remarkable. With help from Pha, Garrett, and Lil Jon, Ciara released her self-titled debut in September the same year. The follow-up singles "1, 2 Step" featuring Missy Elliott and "Oh" featuring Ludacris both broke the Top Five in the U.S. in 2005. By the end of the year she joined Gwen Stefani on tour before teaming with Bow Wow and Chris Brown for a package tour in early 2006. The Evolution, her second album, was released near the end of the year; though it debuted at the top of the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and a handful of subsequent singles ("Get Up," "Promise," "Like a Boy") placed within the Top 20 of the Hot 100, it did not perform quite as well as the debut. The May 2009 release of Fantasy Ride, her third album, was preceded by a few delays, including a pre-release single that failed to catch fire. Fantasy Ride was, nonetheless, her most star-studded album to date, featuring collaborations with Elliott and Ludacris, as well as the-Dream, Young Jeezy, Chris Brown, and Justin Timberlake.

http://www.ciaraworld.com/us/home
http://www.myspace.com/ciara
http://www.youtube.com/user/CiaraTV

Jennifer Hudson

2009-05-18T02:56:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Hudson's cd is finally here and of course the question is was it worth the wait and hype? I can say yes for the most part. 'Jennifer Hudson' offers songs that fit this woman's voice - there are no odd selections that will leave you scratching your head or have her reaching far out of her genre. Most of the songs showcase her vocal range with her hitting notes and doing runs that will have you on your feet and applauding in the privacy of your home or car. Is it perfect? Of course not, there are a few things that make it a bit drab and predictable but the good points outweigh the weaknesses and flaws.

The Good: The variety of the songs is the strength of the album. There's variety BUT her voice is never 'off' or subdued. In each song or within each style, the producers and the artist both find ways to keep things interesting and fresh. Unlike many artists, you can tell Hudson actually connected with the music and lyrics, which results in some really moving songs and fun moments. Stand-out tracks for me is the Beyoncé-esque 'If This Isn't Love' which is Hudson at her best in this pop ballad. 'Pocketbook' is also a winner with Hudson bringing out her sassy-edge that makes her endearing. Other tracks that left an impression were 'We Gon' Fight,' and 'Invisible' which contain lyrics many can relate to on some level.

The Bad: A lot of the mid-tempo or slower songs simply blend into one another. While her voice is always on spot, these songs just seem a bit boring because they sound similar. I would have liked to have heard her experiment and take a few more chances as she does on the song 'Pocketbook' but still, these seem a bit too safe and expected or predictable. While I can understand the inclusion of her song 'All Dressed In Love' from Sex and the City: The Movie, I feel like everyone in the world has heard the Dreamgirls track 'And I'm Telling You' and would have rather seen a new track entirely or a remix of the song.

A little dull and unbalanced in parts but in all, it's a good debut album that doesn't seem to be getting the 'spotlight' attention I think it should be. Check it out, you probably won't be let down.

Intuition

2009-05-18T02:53:00.000-07:00

Cons: I loved "Unpredictable," so I was expecting that same wine and dine romance to lap dance feel, but this album was more about dancing. Foxx has a beautiful voice, but it seems like he was impersonating someone else on "I Don't Need It," which wasn't really necessary. I hate the concept for "Just Like Me" because I'm so opposed to even the idea of singing about justifying cheating, but the video is funny as hell. Taraji Henson was the best choice to do that one, so that video makes me (kinda) like the song. "Number One"s beat was kinda annoying, but I liked the clap-friendly perspective of the song. Somehow I didn't expect Jamie Foxx to work with Lil' Wayne though, so that threw me. But then I hear lines from Foxx like "Got them hundred dollar bills/Girl, I don't rain/I hurricane" and it almost sounds like a singsongy rap. Noooo! Not another one. I like R&B singers that like to do R&B. What's up with Kanye West singing most of the verse to a T-Pain track on "Digital Girl"? "Blame It" sounded like it had a vocoder, but why? Foxx is robbing us of his natural and beautiful voice. I found him using a lot of simplistic lyrics, downgrading his voice a lot on this one, and how unfortunate is that because I'd buy an album from him easy in acapella.

Pros: I would've bought this album regardless because I love "She Got Her Own" and considering that wasn't a bonus track on Ne-Yo's album (you had to buy it on iTunes to get it), I had to have it. You couldn't even buy it as a single, and that song makes my spirit happy. That is absolutely my favorite song of 2008. I gave this CD four stars though because once you got to "Intuition Interlude," then he reminded me of the songs on his last CD and this album picked up immensely. I like those Foxx tracks that make you want to just reach over and hug your man for no reason other than being happy he's there.

One month later: Now that I've gotten over the surprise of Foxx's CD having a hip hop swagger with R&B soul, I really dig "Number One," "I Don't Need It" has an easy dance feel, and "Blame It" kinda grew on me. But I still say the songs after the interlude are far better, specifically "Overdose" and "Slow."

Love vs Money

2009-05-18T02:50:00.000-07:00

The-Dream had the misfortune of releasing his lauded, though underrated 2007 debut during the busy fourth-quarter of the year, in which debut artists normally get swallowed by big-time releases from well known artists being purchased for Christmas. That is exactly what happened, as the talented singer/producer's LOVE/HATE debuted at #30. I don't remember the numbers he posted (somewhere in the 60-70K range I'd estimate), but they weren't representative of his talent, though that could be said of so many who have come and gone in/out of the industry. Despite horrible odds stacked against LOVE/HATE, it managed to go gold after a number of strong singles including "Shawty is Da Sh**" (feat. Fabolous), "Falsetto", and my personal favorite "I Luv Your Girl". What was striking to me is how people could possibly sleep on what was one of the most unique R&B releases in some time, strung together as a narrative almost, an approach the dream would use on Mary J. Bliges's Grammy winning GROWING PAINS. But theories aside, LOVE VS. MONEY is even stronger than LOVE/HATE and has the chance to make more of an impact - if people get out and buy this fantastic album. It does something I haven't seen a contemporary R&B album do for sometimes - have a consistent album that has not one miss and I mean none. This album is nearly perfect.

I tend to favor neo-soul releases as far as R&B is concerned, but a solid contemporary R&B release like this one is again another inescapable album by The-Dream. First single "Rockin' That Thang" (or "Rockin' That Sh**") is another fine first-single for The-Dream, not dissimilar from "Shawty Is Da Sh**". In my eyes, it may be even catchier than its predecessor, despite inherent similarities in both production and conception. If The-Dream does one thing on this album that was lacking on LOVE/HATE, it is he heightens his songwriting skills while his producing buddy "Tricky" tightens up at the boards.

"Walkin' On The Moon" featuring Kanye West shows this progression. Here style/tempo changes (not-so subtle) help to show The-Dream as an innovative soul in the R&B realm, something that the style needs, particularly contemporary R&B. West sounds fine here, but The-Dream holds down this neo-disco track fine, just to show you his strength. "My Love" featuring Mariah Carey is excellent too, and could prove to be a strong hit on the Pop/R&B charts. If The-Dream makes concessions to commercialism, it is with a track like "My Love", which proves to be less conceptual than some of the more experimental, less commercial tracks from LOVE vs. MONEY. Of course LOVE vs. MONEY is a very commercial album, but it also allows for The-Dream to experiment like a rock star would. Think Prince ladies and gentlemen, only with modern-day styling.

"Put It Down" and "Sweat It Out" are by far the best tracks of LOVE VS MONEY, as hard as it is to pick when every track is strong. Here, The-Dream really stretches out and over these lengthy Tricky-helmed ditties, as an R&B listener, you truly hear different sounds than have been heard/experimented previously. Honestly, The-Dream goes above and beyond what R-Kelly does, showing how relevant The-Dream has become in urban music. "Take U Home 2 My Mama" lays just as well, while the exceptional linked "Love vs. Money" and "Love vs. Money Part 2" are both equally alluring. Production is top rate and The-Dream sounds as if his vocal chops have grown, though they were already solid.

"Fancy" plays on true minimalism with a repetitive piano loop that eventually adds sounds/instruments - brilliant. "Right Side of the Brain" doesn't live up to "Fancy", but as a 4-star track, it has no shame whatsoever in my eyes and just adds more evidence towards the true magnitude that is LOVE VS. MONEY. "Mr. Yeah" and the massively creative "Kelly's 12 Play" are superb while the banging club bonus track "Let Me See The Booty" (feat. Lil Jon) just maybe TOO COOL to appear on any R. Kelly album (not knocking Kelly, but The-Dream is quickly giving him a run for his money!). What more is there to say? LOVE VS. MONEY is by far the year's best R&B album and honestly in what has began as a stale year in many respects, this is one of the very best albums of 2009. I hope to see you nominated for Grammys Dream, it's about time.

Fantasy Ride Ciara

2009-05-18T01:53:00.000-07:00

Multi-platinum star Ciara returns to the scene with her high energy third album, Fantasy Ride. Having sold over seven million albums with her debut, Goodies, and follow-up, The Evolution, Ciara raises the stakes with Fantasy Ride. Packed with energetic beats, dynamic production, and provocative lyrics, Fantasy Ride secures Ciara the top spot as a superstar performer. Features production by Justin Timberlake (who also appears on the single "Love Sex Magic"), Rodney Jerkins, Tricky, Polow Da Don, and Danja. Also features appearances by Missy, The-Dream, Young Jeezy, Ludacris, Chris Brown, and T-Pain.
Review:
In her third offering, Ciara takes her fans on a "fantasy ride" that hits many highs and lows. The overly hyped and continuously delayed album boosts many radio friendly songs and potential hits. One of the album's downfalls is the lack of cohesiveness. This might be attributed to the album's original formatting of having three different discs representing various musical styles, which later became scraped. The album's formatting change resulted in all concepts being placed on one disc.
Aside from the lack of fluidity, this 13-track album offers a little something for everyone. Listeners' ears will be subjected to Ciara's alter ego, "Super C" softly crooning over seductive mid-tempo ballads and heads will bob along to the album's contagious club bangers with the catchy hooks.
If listeners are looking for the growth and "evolution" with Fantasy Ride, they will be slightly disappointed.

Strongest points:
The album's aggressive and dance driven beats allow this album to standout. The album enlists production from many of the industry's "it" producers. This includes: Justin Timberlake, Tricky Stewart, The Dream, Rodney Jerkins, and Missy Elliot. In addition, the many collaborations found on the album helps to give the "swagger" Super C was aspiring for. Cameos include: Justin Timberlake (Love Sex & Magic), Chris Brown (Turntables), Ludacris (High Price), Missy Elliott (Work), Young Jeezy (Never Ever), and The-Dream (Lover's Thing).

Weak Points:
Ciara, aka Super C's vocal delivery is at most sub par. Vocally Ciara seems to exhibit a lack of growth. There is no differentiation between Ciara and Super C. Ciara's voice remains monotonous and at times is almost inaudible over the infectious production. In actuality, Ciara and Super C both become lost in the production and merely sit in the background. For the longest Ciara has been fighting for her own identity. Throughout her career she has been compared to the likes of Janet Jackson and even the late Aaliyah. Many songs throughout the album actually are very reminiscent of Janet's Discipline era. For instance, I Don't Remember is very similar to Janet's Rock With U. The lyrics at times are very superficial and lack depth and intensity--G is for Girl, Like a Surgeon, and High Price.

Highlights:
Ciara to the Stage, Love Sex & Magic, High Price (the operatic vocals gives the track an unique flair), Never Ever (possibly Ciara at her best), Work, When I (Bonus Track), and Keep Dancin' On Me.

Forever in a Day

2009-05-18T01:51:00.000-07:00

Ever since that fateful day on August 26, 2007 when Sean "Diddy" Combs announced that Brian, Que, Mike, Willie, and Robert had "made the band," DAY26 has been making their mark on R&B. Their debut album entered the Billboard at the #1 spot, the highest entry for a debut album from a male R&B group in the 17-year history of Soundscan. And now the Bad Boys of R&B are back to reclaim their own throne with their sophomore album, Forever In A Day. With production from some of the best in the game - from Babyface to Jermaine Dupri - DAY26 has delivered another album sure to satisfy their legions of fans and elevate contemporary R&B.

I was a little concerned at the beginning of this CD because I wasn't really into the first few songs minus the club bangers "Stadium Music" and "Imma Put It On Her," which I knew about from watching the show.

"Just Getting Started": That chorus with "we win-ning" and "we just gettin' started-started" is seriously annoying.

"Shawty Wat's Up": I liked the chorus with (Mike?) but I like Mike's voice on EVERYTHING. His voice stops me in my tracks. The song was common though, the regular braggadocio about a man pursuing a woman and not having much time for anything but some sexing.

"Think of Me" was okay. I liked Q's high note at the end, and it's a pretty song, but it wasn't one of those songs I want to hear again. Neither was "Perfectly Blind," "Reminds Me of You," "Truth Is a Lie" (didn't like Will's voice on this one, or maybe it's the lyrics that didn't get me) and "Then There's You" are all rather sappy and forgettable.

"Bipolar" was entertaining for me, especially with all the craziness Day 26 had this season with one member. That's actually one of my favorite songs, and anybody who has been in a relationship has been through these up/down moments.

"So Good" is my favorite song on the entire CD, although "Babymaker" and "Stadium Music" come very close behind. I really like Will's voice on every song too. I've always thought Q's voice was cool, but I was never startled by him. On this song, Q's voice sounds at its best. I like the collaboration between Q and Will together. They definitely picked the right two for this track.

"Girlfriend" is a weird song to me because I read somewhere that Will was married, although he said he had a "girlfriend" on last night's episode. (That cat is VERY funny. "Oh my gawd" and the other impersonations always crack me up.) And Brian is married. It just seemed awkward for men at their age looking for girlfriends. Shouldn't it be wives? Dawn and Q are 2.5 seconds from a wedding aisle from what it looks like anyway, and he's the youngest member.

"Babymaker": Anytime you need someone to sing the 'sexy' part of the song, PLEASE pick Will at all times. Beautiful! The chorus made this song. I might go see them live just to see them dance to this particular cut. I really like Rob's voice when he's singing regularly, but I can't stand the runs and the almost-screaming parts. (Note: I may be alone on this one because you hear this all the time in black churches.)

"Need That" starts off cool in the chorus and Jermaine Dupri always gives the heat in the chorus. I LOVE Brian's voice, but after he stops singing, the song kinda falls off. The chorus and that electric beat aren't for me.

"Your Heels" should be the second single, especially if somebody like Tyra Banks gets her hand on it. This could easily rock out a fashion show song. I know I started switching involuntarily while listening to it walking down the street. The beat, chorus, and lyrics work so well together. Will is kinda scream-singing on this song, but for some odd reason, I like it. And Mike comes in bringing the heat again too.

In a Perfect World...

2009-05-18T01:47:00.000-07:00

Nurtured between Timbaland's Mosley Music Group and Polow's Zone 4 Inc., IN A PERFECT WORLD . . . boasts amazing sounds from a slew of hitmakers like Timbaland, Polow, and Danja. The album features guest appearances by Timbaland, Lil Wayne, Akon, Keyshia Cole, and Ne-Yo. It's a watershed moment that meets both goals-it sounds and feels great. Speaking up for all the ladies, In A Perfect World . . . also looks to empower women to be strong, independent and determined. "No human is exempt from the realities of life- heartbreak, failure, success..." Keri comments. This takes all forms throughout the album which reveals Keri's ability to translate every day trials and tribulations into engaging music.
Hilson has received many accolades in the media, having graced the covers of Fader and Trace Magazine and has been championed in the pages of Rolling Stone, Blender, Vibe, Entertainment Weekly and Interview to name a few.
Keri Hilson proves herself a true contender in the R&B industry with her excellent debut album, IN A PERFECT WORLD. While she is sexy and makes for a "commercial" artist, she also has compelling vocals backing up her sexiness (if that makes any sense). She isn't the powerhouse of say Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, or even dance-pop/R&B diva Beyonce, but she has more vocal prowess than say Ciara (not knocking her). Vocally, she reminds me of Aaliyah to an extent, filling a certain sound that has been missing in R&B. She's not the second coming mind you, but she is a refreshing voice in a genre that lately has been "a bit tired" (See last years Grammy's nominees in comparison to a couple of years back). Not a perfect debut, and maybe sometimes a bit too pop-heavy, it is overall well rounded, particularly by more sensual, slower numbers and even harder hip-hop oriented tracks.

After "Intro" (cliched on every R&B/Hip-Hop album since the Ice Ages), Keri gets the party started with the hip-hop heavy hitter "Turnin' Me On", the first track to give Keri her own hit. Sure "Energy" was a fine track, but it failed at radio. "Turnin Me On" was destined to be a hit - it featured Lil Wayne. The production by Polow Da Don is exceptional here, and Keri sounds fantastic. "Get Your Money Up" keeps the momentum going hard, featuring Keyshia Cole and Trina. Catchy, stupid, and simple, it is a worthwhile listen. Production again stands out, with Hilson's somewhat skinny vocals blending well within the production. Similarly, Keri's vocals are buried within Timbaland's production work on "Return the Favor" which is nearly as good as the first two tracks if a bit long. In this instance, she sounds good mixed within the production as opposed to being on top of it- every producer's trick with dance cuts. Following "Return the Favor", one more flashy cut, though slightly slower (and the third single) "Knock You Down" features the ubiquitous 'gentleman' Ne-Yo and a rapping (can you believe it?) Kanye West. Solid in every way, Keri is at the front of the production here, letting her soprano vocals shimmer over the production work. Ne-Yo sounds as refined as ever and Kanye is Kanye - but I'm glad to hear him rapping and expect another hip-hop album from him soon.

"Slow Dance" truly allows for Keri to shine, letting her vocals run solo as opposed to collaborating with someone else - four tracks of collaborations was a bit heavy at the forefront of a solo album in my eyes. She proves she has the chops here, commanding this well-produced ditty. Even more alluring is it's stronger follow-up, "Make Love" where Hilson gets an A+ not only vocally, but for sensualness; she truly makes the song sound sexy without having to be explicit, something that used to be so easy for R&B singers. "Intuition" returns Hilson to more a more uptempo number. The production is top-rate (she is on Timbaland's label), but the song is middle-of-the-road in comparison to the best. It's average. The hip-hop cut "How Does It Feel" re-energizes IN A PERFECT WORLD with one of Hilson's best vocals and one of the most memorable productions of the album.

"Alienated" is solid, but not the best of the album. "Tell Him The Truth" is solid as well, if underwhelming compared to the best. The Akon feature "Change Me" shows why Akon may be waning the slightest bit as it comes off as only so-so. "Energy", the forgotten but polished first single from IN A PERFECT WORLD restores some lost momentum, with "Where Did He Go", the closing track, ending the album on a high note.

Again, not perfect, but a strong debut that is enjoyable. It doesn't beat The-Dream's LOVE VS. MONEY for best R&B album released in 2009 as of yet, but it does place very highly as far as I'm concerned. Keri, you are "turnin' me on" with your fine debut.

The Last Kiss

2009-05-18T01:44:00.000-07:00

Legendary rapper Jadakiss, always at the eye of the storm, puts an end to five years of speculation about his new album when the aptly-titled THE LAST KISS arrives in the physical and digital marketplace April 7th. The first single "Can't Stop Me" produced by Neo The Matrix follows up to the club banger "By My Side" feat. Ne-Yo and street smash "Letter To B.I.G"f t. Faith Evans off the Notorious movie soundtrack. The new album marks the second release on the mega-successful multi-platinum Ruff Ryders label. In the midst of delivering a highly anticipated album Jadakiss has also been working on a sneaker lifestyle website as well as upcoming BET reality show.

THE LAST KISS is the long-awaited follow-up to Kiss Of Death, the second album by Jadakiss, released June 2004. The million-selling #1 pop and #1 R&B album turned out a trio of hit singles, starting with "Time's Up" (featuring Nate Dogg, produced by Scott Storch); then "Why" (featuring Anthony Hamilton, produced by Havoc); and "U Make Me Wanna" (featuring Mariah Carey, produced by Storch).

THE LAST KISS picks up where Kiss Of Death left off, with the albums first official single "Can't Stop Me", guest appearances by Ne-Yo(By My Side), "Something Else" ft. Young Jeezy, "One More Step" ft. Styles P., Sheek Louch, Lil' Wayne, Pharell, Barrington Levy, Avery Storm, Jasmine Sullivan, S.I, Ghostface & Raekwon . Producers on board the new album project include the Neptunes, Swizz Beatz, Eric Hudson, The Incredibles, Buckwild, Denaun Porter, Needlz, Sean C & LV, and Baby Grande.

Kiss Tha Game Goodbye, the solo debut from Jadakiss, was released August 2001. On the strength of its three chart singles - "Knock Yourself Out" (produced by the Neptunes); "We Gonna Make It" (featuring Styles P. and produced by Alchemist); and "Put Ya Hands Up" - the album rose to #2/R&B and #5/pop, and went on to sell more than three million copies worldwide. Prior to starting his solo career, Jadakiss spent nearly a decade as a member of the legendary rap collective the L.O.X. (later known as D-Block), whose members included Styles P. and Sheek Louch.

In this day in age with swagger rappers and dance gimmics. Jadakis was able to still give us a classic lp. He had to change with the times on the collabs but its still a classic at this day in age. Give him a break hip hop is not where it was when you have MCs rapping over breaks and jazz riffs and chopped samples. Hip hop is all about changes so he adopted and still come out on top. We need to start buying records again instead of downloading the best songs online. That would bring hip hoop back if we go out and buy music.

Relapse

2009-05-18T01:41:00.000-07:00

Highly anticipated 2009 album from one of the most successful Rap artists in history. He's sold more albums than most Rock and Pop superstars. He's a Grammy winner. He's an Oscar winner. He's been on the cover of practically every music magazine since his debut album dropped in 1999. Now, 10 years after The Slim Shady LP, Eminem marks his 10th anniversary as a Hip Hop hurricane with Relapse, yet another skillful collaboration with Dr. Dre. Features the single 'Crack A Bottle' (which features Dre and 50 Cent).

1. Dr. West (Skit)
2. 3 A.M.
3. My Mom
4. Insane
5. Bagpipes from Baghdad
6. Hello
7. Tonya (Skit)
8. Same Song & Dance
9. We Made You
10. Medicine Ball
11. Paul (Skit)
12. Stay Wide Awake
13. Old Time's Sake - Dr. Dre, Eminem
14. Must Be the Ganja
15. Mr. Mathers (Skit)
16. Déjà Vu
17. Beautiful
18. Crack a Bottle - Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent
19. Steve Berman (Skit)
20. Underground

Jessica Simpson

2009-05-14T05:12:00.000-07:00

Pop singer. Born July 10, 1980 in Dallas, Texas. After developing her voice in the local Baptist church choir, Simpson made an unsuccessful bid for The Mickey Mouse Club at the age of 12. Disappointed but undaunted, Simpson continued to sing in the Christian music circuit after being discovered by a small music label while performing at church camp.

With her father as her manager and her mother as her stylist, Simpson eventually signed with Sony and toured with popular boy bands during the late 1990s. She released her first album, Sweet Kisses, in 1999 and her second, Irresistible, including the hit single “I Wanna Love You Forever,” in 2001. Success for Simpson remained just out of reach, however. Her albums received a somewhat lukewarm response and were eclipsed by the enormous success of pop contemporaries Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.

It wasn’t until after she married 98° crooner Nick Lachey and starred in MTV’s reality show Newlyweds that Simpson’s career took off. The show followed the couple around for their first year of marriage—and then their second—providing the insatiable audience with a peek at their glamorous and mundane world. Boosted by the success of the show, Simpson’s third album, In This Skin, was re-released in 2004, becoming a huge hit among MTV viewers. That year, the couple also produced The Nick and Jessica Variety Hour on ABC and enjoyed a successful turn as hosts of Saturday Night Live.

Christina Aguilera

2009-05-14T05:02:00.000-07:00

Born Christina Maria Aguilera on December 18, 1980, in Staten Island, New York. The daughter of a military father and a musician mother, Aguilera appeared on Star Search at age 9 and was a cast member of the Mickey Mouse Club for two years before recording the hit duet "All I Wanna Do" in Japan with local pop star Keizo Nakanishi.

In 1998, the pop artist began her rapid ascent to stardom when she recorded "Reflection" for the soundtrack of Disney's Mulan. Her self-titled debut album followed shortly thereafter, with the single "Genie In A Bottle" becoming the biggest selling U.S. single of the year.

After winning a Grammy in 1999 for Best New Artist, Aguilera topped the charts again in January 2000 with "What A Girl Wants" and "Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You).” The savvy release of a Spanish collection of hits titled Mi Reflejo and a cover version of LaBelle's "Lady Marmalade" for the Moulin Rouge soundtrack kept the star in the limelight.

In 2002, Aguilera unveiled a controversial sexually charged image for her second studio album, Stripped. The album's first single, "Dirrty," drew similar controversy for its decidedly steamy music video.

In 2006, Aguilera appeared somewhat more subdued when she released her third studio album Back to Basics. She considered it to be a modern spin on the jazz, blues, and soul music from 1920s to the 1940s. Though one track, "Still Dirrty," indicated that she was not completely shedding her sexy image.

In late 2007, rumors started to swirl around Aguilera about a possible pregnancy. Paris Hilton leaked the news at a September party in Las Vegas, saying “congratulations to the most beautiful pregnant woman in the world” to Aguilera, according to a report in People magazine. Despite this public declaration, Aguilera remained mum on the subject of whether or not she was pregnant.

Aguilera finally confirmed the rumors in early November that she and her husband of two years, music executive Jordan Bratman, were expecting their first child. The singer told Glamour's U.K. edition that her plans for New Year's Eve involve a new baby.

"That'll be about the time I enter into mommy hood so I'm hoping to have started a beautiful family with my husband!" Aguilera is quoted in a story posted on the magazine's Web site. Later that month, a very pregnant Aguilera modeled her baby bump on the cover of Marie Claire magazine.

The couple welcomed Max Liron Bratman on January 12, 2008. On the day of his birth, Aguilera posted a message on her website to her fans. Here is a part of that message, expressing their delight over their new addition: “Today is a very joyful and special day for Jordan and I as we welcome our first son into this world.”

The next month Aguilera made her first public appearance since Max’s arrival. To promote her new DVD Back to Basics: Live and Down Under (2008), she signed autographs at an electronics store in West Hollywood, California.

Photographs of Aguilera and Max were featured in People magazine around the same time. Appearing on the talk show Ellen, Aguilera spoke very candidly to Ellen DeGeneres about nursing and her son’s bris.

During a radio interview with Ryan Seacrest, Aguilera talked her plans for the future. Fans should expect some changes from the pop diva. "I've been brainstorming for the last nine months of my pregnancy. This next album will have a whole new me," she said.

Britney Spears

2009-05-08T05:07:00.000-07:00

Spears was born December 2, 1981 , in Kentwood Louisiana. The daughter of Lynne, an elementary school teacher, and Jamie, a construction contractor, Spears auditioned for the Disney Channel’s Mickey Mouse Club at the age of 8.
Producers for the show decided she was too young, but one was impressed enough to help her find an agent in New York.
Accompanied by her mother and younger sister, Spears lived in Manhattan for the next several summers, studying at the Professional Performing Arts School.
In 1991, she landed a part as a demonic child in Ruthless, an off-Broadway production based on the 1956 horror film, The Bad Seed.
At age 11, Spears auditioned again, this time successfully, for the Mickey Mouse Club. For the 1993 and 1994 seasons, she lived in Orlando, Florida, where the show is filmed, in a dorm with the rest of the cast—including two future members of the group ‘N Sync and Keri Russell, future star of the WB’s Felicity.
After her run on the MMC, Spears attended high school at home in Louisiana for a year, before heading back to New York at age 15 to audition for executives at Jive Records.
She signed a development deal with Jive and over the next two years recorded her debut album with producers Eric Foster White, who had worked with Whitney Houston (one of Spears’ professed influences, with Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Mariah Carey), and Max Martin, who worked with fellow pop stars the Backstreet Boys.
The album, Baby One More Time, was completed by early 1998 but wasn’t released until January 1999. During the interim, Spears set out on a promotional tour to shopping malls throughout America, prompting inevitable comparisons with ‘80s teen pop stars such as Tiffany and Debbie Gibson.
Her first single, also titled “Baby One More Time,” was released in October 1998; its success got Spears a gig opening for ‘N Sync, by then a popular teen band.
When Spears’ album was released on January 12, 1999 , it went straight to the top of the Billboard charts, becoming the first album of the year to debut at No. 1. The single, spurred along by a racy video featuring Spears dressed as a bare-midriffed Catholic schoolgirl, also shot up to No. 1.
By September, Baby One More Time had sold over 6 million copies. Spears’ first eagerly-awaited solo tour opened in June 1999.
Some controversy surrounded a Rolling Stone cover story in March 1999, picturing the 17-year-old Spears in a seductive, Lolita-esque pose. Spears has vigorously denied the widespread rumor that she has breast implants, as well as the rumor that she is actually in her 20s.
Before the Grammy Awards, held in February 2000, Spears had emerged as one of the leading contenders for Best New Artist. She eventually lost the award, to fellow ex-Mickey Mouse Clubber and teen pop sensation Christina Aguilera.
Spears' second album, Oops!...I Did It Again, hit stores in May of 2000. With 1.3 million copies sold in its first week in stores, the album became the top-selling debut by a solo female artist ever. It earned Spears two more Grammy nominations, for Best Vocal Pop Album and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance (for the single “Oops!...I Did It Again”).
Spears released her third album, Britney, in November 2001, which featured the breakout single, I’m A Slave 4 U. With her next album, In the Zone (2003), she tried to sound more adult while at the same time playing up an even sexier image. She collaborated with Madonna on the popular track Me Against the Music and scored a top ten hit with Toxic.In recent years, Spears has become more famous for her personal life than her music. She dated fellow Mickey Mouse Club alum Justin Timberlake of the blockbuster boy band 'N Sync for a number of years. Their much-talked-about breakup was followed by an annulled impromptu marriage to childhood pal Jason Allen Alexander in 2003.
Spears married dancer Kevin Federline in a much-publicized wedding in September 2004. Their first child, a son, was born on September 14, 2005. Their second son was born on September 12, 2006. Spears filed for divorce in November 2006. The divorce became finalized in July.
After her break-up with Federline, Spears’ personal life seemed to spin out of control. Within days, she was photographed without underwear arriving at various parties. In February 2007, she shaved her head with electric clippers at a tattoo shop in Sherman Oaks, California.
Britney made several attempts at rehabilitation before completing a program at a Malibu, California-based treatment facility on March 20, 2007. But Spears' former bodyguard said he saw her doing drugs shortly after.Tony Baretto revealed in an interview on Sept. 24 that Spears had done drugs twice at a nightclub, but didn’t say what kind of drugs she did. Baretto, fired two months after that alleged incident, also filed a deposition in her child-custody case claiming to be witness to “nudity, drug use and safety issues” involving her kids. Spears, who is trailed almost everywhere by a mob of celebrity photographers, has also became notorious for distracted driving. In February 2006, she was photographed driving with her son on her lap.
On August 6, 2007, paparazzi photographed Spears steering her car into another vehicle as she tried to park in a space in a lot in Studio City. The video showed her walking away after assessing the damage to her own car. The owner of the other car, Kim Robard-Rifkin, learned it was Spears who had hit her car through a video posted on the Internet and filed a police report three days later. Investigators later determined that Spears also did not have a license. A hit-and-run charge against Spears was dismissed Oct. 25 after she paid an undisclosed amount to the other car's driver in the fender-bender. She also pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of driving without a valid driver's license and later obtained a temporary California license.
The damage continued to pile up into that October and November as three people, including two paparazzi and a Los Angeles sheriff's deputy, reportedly had their feet crushed as Spears drove her car through crowds. In addition to her motoring misfortunes, Spears was also dropped by her management company, the Firm, on Sept. 17, eight days after her widely panned performance at the MTV Video Music Awards. Still, her new album Blackout came out October 30 to broadly favorable reviews. She also suffered from pinkeye, a common infection when you have little kids. Spears made that revelation coming out of the Los Angeles courthouse Oct. 15 where she was booked on charges in the Aug. 6 incident. She was wearing large designer sunglasses at night to hide her infection, which she said hurt “really bad.”
The biggest blow, however, was yet to come. Citing concerns about her use of drugs and alcohol, Superior Court Commissioner Scott Gordon removed Spears from physical custody of her children Oct. 1. Gordon ordered Spears to undergo random drug and alcohol tests and meet weekly with a parenting coach who would report back to the court about her parenting skills.Gordon later granted some visitation rights to Spears, but reversed that on Oct. 17 after finding she had failed to comply with some conditions for shared custody. He withdrew the visitation ban a few days later, but only in the presence of a court-approved monitor.Gordon also ordered both parents to complete the court's “Parenting Without Conflict” class. Indeed, they attended their first of six sessions on Oct. 24 at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Spears and Federline reportedly discussed how a divorce can affect children, and received instructions on what they should be doing to be good divorced parents.Spears failed to regain custody of her children Oct. 30, following a damning review of her parenting skills. She was, however, granted two supervised visits per week with her kids if she has regular drug and alcohol tests, childproofs her home, buckles the kids in car seats and continues meeting with a court-appointed parenting coach.
In that ruling, Gordon also noted that Spears had failed to keep appointments with a court-appointed parenting coach, Lisa Hacker, on three occasions before finally holding a series of sessions. Gordon added that while Hacker felt Spears “loves her children and the children are bonded” to her, she had expressed “several observations that are of concern.”“It seems that her (Spears) choices are dependent more upon what she wants to do at any given time rather than what would be more enjoyable for the children,” Hacker stated in the Oct. 19 report. She added that the Spears household: “Ranged from chaotic to almost somber with no communication at all.”During all three visits, Hacker said Spears “rarely engaged with the children in either conversation or play” and had displayed a “lack of general attention at times.” Hacker closed her report by stating bluntly: “The problem is that unless Ms Spears realizes the consequences of her behavior and the impact that it has (on) her children, nothing is going to be successful.”
Gordon's nine-page ruling said Spears could have overnight visits with her kids. She would get two visits a week from noon to 7 p.m. and one from noon to 10 a.m. the next morning. All the visits would be monitored. Spears and Federline were also ordered to meet to agree a holiday schedule.The Oct. 30 ruling followed a tense three-hour hearing Oct. 26 attended by both Spears and Federline. During a break, Spears reportedly began cursing, Access Hollywood reported.
“Eat it! Lick it! Snort it! F*** it!” she was overheard repeating when a reporter tried to ask her a question. Spears also seemed distraught when she eventually left the courthouse for the day.
Spears was ordered to show up for a deposition to determine whether she misused alcohol and substances in front of her young children. But she missed several sessions, including ones scheduled for Dec. 12, 2007 and Jan. 2, 2008.Another deposition was scheduled for Jan. 3, but Spears arrived so late that it was called off after only 14 minutes. Later that night, she was taken to a hospital after a standoff in her Beverly Hills mansion when she refused to return the children to Federline's bodyguard following a visit.Spears finally turned over her children after ambulances showed up. She was conscious, alternately smiling and looking distraught, when paramedics took her out of her home in a gurney.The exact reasons for Spears being taken to hospital were not revealed although there was speculation she was suffering from a long-standing psychological illness, possibly bipolar disorder.
Spears discharged herself Jan. 5, but couldn't get out the door without bumping into psychologist and television talk show host “‘Dr. Phil” McGraw. He had been asked to meet with Spears by her parents. After they chatted, Dr. Phil reportedly escorted Spears to her car.
And then, Dr. Phil started telling everybody about his encounter with Britney, including the media. Britney’s parents, not happy about it at all, said through a spokeswoman that “‘he (Dr. Phil) was not invited to make this part of a public display or part of the media” and called it “‘an example of a trust being betrayed.”

Beyonce

2009-05-08T04:29:00.000-07:00

Birth Name: Beyoncé Giselle Knowles

Birth Date: September 4, 1981

Birth Place: Housten, Texas, USA

Occupation: Singer, Model, Actress

Claim to Fame: Lead singer of Destiny's Child

Height: 5' 6" (1.68 m)

Eyes: Brown

Hair: Brown

Nickname: JuJu , Mothe , Bee

Born to a loving family in Houston, Texas, Beyonce (rhymes with fiance) Giselle Knowles showed an aptitude for music before she could even talk. As a young girl, she would drown out everyone, including the church choir, on Sundays at church. Every weekend, she tuned her voice by doing soulful hymns with the congregation and then moved on to opera classes, in which she was classically trained.

Father set up Destiny

The normal childhood was not in the books for Beyonce. At 8 years old, she met LaTavia Robertson while auditioning for a girls musical group and Matthew Knowles, Beyonce's manager and father, later paired the two with LeToya Luckett. In 1992, cousin Kelly Rowland joined the group, and they performed together on Star Search.

Small gigs and much label-shopping later, the four beauties cemented their relationship by calling themselves Destiny's Child. In 1997, "No, No, No" became their first official single, and they got off to a big start as the track went multi-platinum. The girls were instantly popular in the media and impressed all with their self-titled debut.

Bringing in the bills, bills, bills

If critics were impressed with this new R&B group's success, they were absolutely floored when The Writing's on the Wall hit stores in 1999. DC, led by the incomparable Beyonce, had three top ten hits within the year: "Jumpin, Jumpin," "Say My Name" and "Bills, Bills, Bills." They became one of the best-selling female groups of recent memory after this second album sold more than 9 million units worldwide. At the same time, it was announced that their single "Independent Women Part 1," off the Charlie's Angels soundtrack, had reached the largest audience ever in the recorded radio airplay -- 140.4 million pairs of ears.
Grammys came during group split

Shortly after the announcement of five Grammy nominations at the 2001 awards show and the excitement of the unbelievable record sales, LeToya and LaTavia left the group amid management struggles. Legal problems ensued, but Destiny's Child became whole again with the arrival of Michelle Williams, and, for a short stint only, backup singer Farrah Franklin. At the Grammys, DC took home two awards, Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group, both for "Say My Name."

Now a trio, Destiny's Child's third album, Survivor, which debuted in the spring of '01, garnered a whole new set of hits, like "Bootylicious" and the title track. The success of Survivor resulted in another Grammy for the group in February 2002. In fact, the American Music, MTV, Soul Train and Image Awards all showered the group with more hardware and praise.

Breaking records and breakup

After all this success, the group's three talented sistas decided to try their hands at solo careers before investing their time in another Destiny's Child album. To no one's surprise, Beyonce has captured the bulk of the spotlight with her sex appeal and strong vocals. Even before her first album was organized, she had a hit with Jay-Z called "Bonnie and Clyde '03" and was cracking up audiences with her big-screen debut alongside Mike Myers in Austin Powers in Goldmember. This simply prepared fans for what was to come with Dangerously In Love, released in June 2003.

Knowles a dangerous artist & actor

Beyonce displayed a versatile style with this solo effort, creating the club hit "Baby Boy," the pop success "Crazy In Love" and the soulful "The Closer I Get To You" with Luther Vandross. Like her work in Destiny's Child, Beyonce wrote or co-wrote many of the tracks and performed her heart out on award shows to get the word out to a huge audience. She has emerged as a diva, making the best videos, catchiest songs and creating the most headlines. Rumors have swirled that she is involved with rapper Jay-Z, and talk of another Destiny's Child album has surfaced.

Her work outside the recording studio does not go ignored either. As she prepares for a solo tour, Beyonce can be seen in ads for L'Oreal and Pepsi, and in the musical/comedy The Fighting Temptations. A star of her caliber comes along very rarely, so we expect even bigger things from our favorite R&B star in the near future: more music, movies and sexy outfits, please.

"It's not like I can go shopping and go to the mall and go get my nails done without people asking for autographs and taking pictures. Then when it's Michelle, Kelly and me, it makes it even harder. It's like, 'Destiny's Child is here.' So that is a sacrifice. Normalcy is sacrificed. But that's just a part of it. You can't complain about it."

Shakira

2009-05-08T01:02:00.000-07:00

Singer, songwriter. Born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. With a Lebanese father and Colombian mother, Shakira honors her Latino and Arabic heritage in her music. She wrote her first song at the age of 8 and signed her first record deal at 13. After her first two albums flopped, Shakira took the reins of her third album, becoming involved in every aspect of its production. Released in 1996, Pies Descalzos, meaning "bare feet," sold more than three million copies. The album featured her trademark sound, a blending of Latin, rock, and Arabic musical styles. It sold more than three million copies and the follow-up record, Dónde Están Los Ladrones? (1998)—which translates as "Where are the thieves?"—reached the top of Billboard's Latin charts. Based on the success of her albums, Shakira became a music superstar in the Spanish-language markets, known for her strong vocals and incredible hip-shaking belly dance moves.

While hugely popular in much of the rest of the world, Shakira had not yet achieved a major record on the U.S. pop charts. She moved to Miami with her family to further her goal and taught herself to write songs in English. She enlisted Emilio Estefan—of Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine fame—to act as her manager and producer. Her first English-language album, Laundry Service (2001), provided Shakira with the success in the United States that she longed forthe album was number three on the charts, selling more than 200,000 copies in the first week. The songs "Whenever, Wherever" and "Underneath Your Clothes" were both big hits.

Shakira returned to the top 10 of the albums chart in 2005 twice. She first released the Spanish-language Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 in June, which was followed in November by English-language Oral Fixation, Vol. 2. She received the Grammy Award for Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album for Fijación Oral, Vol. 1, her second time winning such an honor. Previously, she had won a Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album for 2000's Shakira: MTV Unplugged.

Besides her busy career, Shakira created the Pies Descalzos Foundation to help children in her native Colombia in 1997.

Umbrella

2009-04-29T05:13:00.000-07:00

You have my heart
And we'll never be worlds apart
Maybe in magazines
But you'll still be my star

Baby 'cause in the dark
You can't see shiny cars
And that's when you need me there
With you I'll always share
Because

When the sun shines, we'll shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be a friend
Took an oath, I'ma stick it out till the end

Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we'll still have each other
You can stand under my umbrella
You can stand under my umbrella

(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh, eh eh eh)

These fancy things, will never come in between
You're part of my entity, here for infinity
When the war has took it's part
When the world has dealt it's cards
If the hand is hard, together we'll mend your heart
Because

When the sun shines, we'll shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be a friend
Took an oath, I'ma stick it out till the end

Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we'll still have each other
You can stand under my umbrella
You can stand under my umbrella

Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh, eh eh eh)

You can run into my arms
It's okay don't be alarmed
Come here to me
There's no distance in between our love

So go on and let the rain pour
I'll be all you need and more
Because

When the sun shines, we'll shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be a friend
Took an oath, I'ma stick it out till the end

Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we'll still have each other
You can stand under my umbrella
You can stand under my umbrella

(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh)
Under my umbrella
(Ella ella, eh eh eh, eh eh eh)

It's raining
Ooh baby it's raining
Baby come here to me
Come here to me

It's raining
Ooh baby it's raining
You can always come here to me
Come here to me

It's pouring rain
It's pouring rain
Come here to me
Come here to me

Rihanna

2009-04-29T05:05:00.000-07:00

Birth Name Robyn Rihanna Fenty
Nickname

RiRi

Caribbean Queen

The Barbados Babe

The New Princess of Pop

Thunder Thighs

Queen Of The R&B
Height 5' 8" (1.73 m)
Mini Biography
Rihanna was born on February 20, 1988, in a county in Barbados called St. Michael. She lived the life of a normal island girl going to Combermere, a top sixth form school, similar to grammar schools in the UK. Rihanna won a beauty pageant and performed Mariah Carey's "Hero" in a school talent show. Her life changed forever when one of her friends introduced her to Evan Rodgers, a producer from New York who was in Barbados for vacation with his wife, who is a native. Rodgers arranged for her to go to New York to meet Jay-Z CEO of Def Jam Records. He heard her sing and knew she was going to be big and for more than just one song. She was 16 when she was signed to Def Jam. Rihnanna's debut album is out now. It's called "Music of the Sun".
Was signed to Def Jam Records
Her musical inspirations include Alicia Keys,Beyoncé Knowles,Mariah Carey.
Attended Combermere which is a sixth form school similar to technical school in America.
Performed Mariah Carey's "Hero" at her school's talent show.
Won a beauty pageant at her school.
Born to a black Barbadian father Ronald Fenty and a black Guyanese mother Monica Fenty.
She has two younger brothers Rorrey and Rajad.
Stated in an interview that her friend and former Island Def Jam record label artist Fefe Dobson was someone that she admired and looked up to. Having a fellow black artist writing, singing, and performing the music she truly loves.
Ranked #8 on the Maxim magazine Hot 100 of 2007 list.
Sampled "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' " by Michael Jackson from his " Thriller" album in her song "Please Don't Stop the Music".
Ranked #15 on the Maxim magazine Hot 100 of 2008 list.

Joyride- Roxette

2009-04-22T23:57:00.000-07:00

I hit the road out of nowhere
I had to jump in my car
And be a rider in a love game
Following the stars
Don't need no book of wisdom
I get no money talk at all

She has a train going downtown
She's got a club on the moon
And she's telling all her secrets
In a wonderful balloon
She's the heart of the funfair
She's got me whistling her private tune

And it all begins where it ends
And she's all mine, my magic friend
She says: Hello, you fool, I love you
Come on join the joyride
Join the joyride

She's a flower, I can paint her
She's a child of the sun
We're a part of this together
Could never turn around and run
Don't need no fortune teller
To know where my lucky love belongs,
Oh no

Cause it all begins again when it ends
And we're all magic friends
She says: Hello, you fool, I love you
Come on join the joyride
Join the joyride
Be a joyrider
I take you on a skyride
A feeling like you're spellbound
The sunshine is a lady
Who ROX you like a baby
She says: Hello, you fool, I love you
Come on join the joyride
Join the joyride

Pour Que Tu M'aimes Encore

2009-04-15T06:23:00.000-07:00

J'ai compris tous les mots, j'ai bien compris, merci
Raisonnable et nouveau, c'est ainsi par ici
Que les choses ont change, que les fleurs ont fane
Que le temps d'avant, c'etait le temps d'avant
Que si tout zappe et lasse, les amours aussi passent

Il faut que tu saches

J'irai chercher ton coeur si tu l'emportes ailleurs
Meme si dans tes danses d'autres dansent tes heures
J'irai chercher ton ame dans les froids dans les flammes
Je te jetterai des sorts pour que tu m'aimes encore

Fallait pas commencer m'attirer me toucher
Fallait pas tant donner moi je sais pas jouer
On me dit qu'aujourd'hui, on me dit que les autres font ainsi
Je ne suis pas les autres
Avant que l'on s'attache, avant que l'on se gache

Je veux que tu saches

J'irai chercher ton coeur si tu l'emportes ailleurs
Meme si dans tes danses d'autres dansent tes heures
J'irai chercher ton ame dans les froids dans les flammes
Je te jetterai des sorts pour que tu m'aimes encore

Je trouverai des langages pour chanter tes louanges
Je ferai nos bagages pour d'infinies vendanges
Les formules magiques des marabouts d'Afrique
J'les dirai sans remords pour que tu m'aimes encore

Je m'inventerai reine pour que tu me retiennes
Je me ferai nouvelle pour que le feu reprenne
Je deviendrai ces autres qui te donnent du plaisir
Vos jeux seront les notres si tel est ton desir
Plus brillante plus belle pour une autre etincelle
Je me changerai en or pour que tu m'aimes encore

Always

2009-04-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

This romeo is bleeding
But you can't see his blood
It's nothing but some feelings
That this old dog kicked up

It's been raining since you left me
Now I'm drowning in the flood
You see I've always been a fighter
But without you I give up

Now I can't sing a love song
Like the way it's meant to be
Well, I guess I'm not that good anymore
But baby, that's just me

And I will love you, baby - Always
And I'll be there forever and a day - Always
I'll be there till the stars don't shine
Till the heavens burst and
The words don't rhyme
And I know when I die, you'll be on my mind
And I'll love you - Always

Now your pictures that you left behind
Are just memories of a different life
Some that made us laugh, some that made us cry
One that made you have to say goodbye
What I'd give to run my fingers through your hair
To touch your lips, to hold you near
When you say your prayers try to understand
I've made mistakes, I'm just a man

When he holds you close, when he pulls you near
When he says the words you've been needing to hear
I'll wish I was him 'cause those words are mine
To say to you till the end of time

Yeah, I will love you baby - Always
And I'll be there forever and a day - Always

If you told me to cry for you
I could
If you told me to die for you
I would
Take a look at my face
There's no price I won't pay
To say these words to you

Well, there ain't no luck
In these loaded dice
But baby if you give me just one more try
We can pack up our old dreams
And our old lives
We'll find a place where the sun still shines

And I will love you, baby - Always
And I'll be there forever and a day - Always
I'll be there till the stars don't shine
Till the heavens burst and
The words don't rhyme
And I know when I die, you'll be on my mind
And I'll love you - Always

"Sleeping In My Car"

2009-04-15T06:10:00.000-07:00

I'll tell you what I've done
I'll tell you what I'll do
Been driving all nite just to get close to you
Baby Babe - I'm moving so fast
You'd better come on.
The moon is alright
The freeway's heading south
My heart is going Boom!
There's a strange taste in my mouth
Baby Babe - I'm moving real fast
So try to hold on
Try to hold on!
Sleeping in my car - I will undress you
Sleeping in my car - I will caress you
Staying in the back seat of my car making up.
So come out tonight
I'll take you for a ride
This steamy ol' wagon
The radio is getting wild
Baby Babe - we're moving so fast
I try to hang on
Try to hang on!
Sleeping in my car - I will undress you
Sleeping in my car - I will caress you
Staying in the back seat of my car making love, oh yea!
Sleeping in my car - I will possess you
Sleeping in my car - certainly bless you
Laying in the back seat of my car making up.
The night is so pretty and so young
The night is so pretty and so young
So very young...
Sleeping in my car - I will undress you
Sleeping in my car - I will caress you
Staying in the back seat of my car making love to you.
Sleeping in my car - I will possess you
Sleeping in my car - certainly bless you
Laying in the back seat of my car making up.
I will undress youI will undress you.
The night is so pretty and so young.

Roxette Biography

2009-04-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

Band members include Pelle Alsing, (born June 6, 1960, inStockholm, Sweden), drums; Vicki Benckert, (bornOctober 17, 1960, in Stockholm, Sweden), guitar, accordion, backing vocals; Marie Fredriksson, (born May 30, 1958, in Ostra Ljungby, Sweden), vocals; marriedMickeBolyos; children: Inez Josefin; Oscar Mikael; Per Gessle, (born January 12, 1959, in Halmstad, Sweden), guitar, vocals;married Asa Nordin, 1993; children: Gabriel Titus; Anders Herrlin,(born September 17, 1961, in Halmstad, Sweden), bass guitar;Jonas Isacsson, (born June 10, 1959, in Umea,Sweden), guitar; Clarence Ofwerman, (born November 22, 1957, in Stockholm, Sweden), keyboards; StaffanOfwerman, (born September 8, 1962, in Stockholm, Sweden), keyboards, percussion. Addresses: Record company- EMI, 810 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019.

Initially bogged down with comparisons to 1970s pop giants Abba, the members of Roxette became international superstars with the release of their second album Look Sharp! in 1988. Like fellow Swedish Abba, Roxette did produce a number of worldwide number one hits, but showed their own knack for composing infectiously catchy pop songs. Continuing with several albums that were almost as commercially successful, Roxette was warmly treated by most critics, who found guilty pleasure in the band's well-crafted tunes. After the somewhat disappointing album Crash!Boom! Bang! in 1994, Roxette retreated from the studio with a number of compilations, remixes,and re-releases, but announced that an album of fresh material would be offered to the world by the end of 1998.

Although rounded out by a number of studio musicians, for all intents and purposes Roxette is the duo of guitarist/vocalist Per Gessle and platinum-haired lead vocalist Marie Fredriksson,who met in Halmstad, Sweden in the mid-1970s. Both of them struggling musicians, Fredriksson's primary influence came from jazz artists as diverse as the mournful chanteuse BillieHoliday and the improvisational outfit Henry Cow, while Gessle was thoroughly caught up in the style of American and British New Wave and power pop groups like Blondie and the Romantics. "With new wave, it was okay if you hit the wrong note," Gessle told Musician's Mark Rowlandin 1991. "I think that was the attitude that made you start playing guitar, because you're not really influenced by your school or parents."

Gessle and Fredriksson both made names for themselves with two markedly different recording careers, with Gessle writing wry lyrics for a pop band, and Fredriksson creating three solo albums of somber female vocals. However, by the mid-1980s the two friends decided to takeadvantage of their seeming incompatibility and formed Roxette in hopes of creating catchy, flashy pop music. "I don't think Roxette would ever have happened if Marie's and my records had been sort of the same," Gessle reflected to Rowland. "Marie had never had that type of song to sing before. And for me it was equally - opposite." In 1986, Roxette cut their debut album for EMI Sweden, an outing of twelve tracks recorded in their native tongue, entitled Pearls of Passion. The record yielded a number of hits in Roxette's homeland, including "Svarta glas" ("BlackGlasses") but was not released to the rest of the world.

After a successful domestic tour in 1987, Gessle and Fredriksson decided to broaden their appeal by switching over to English, the language spoken in the crucial U.S. and U.K. markets. The resulting album, Look Sharp! was released by EMI in 1988, but initially failed to catch on outside of Sweden until an American exchange student gave a copy to a radio station in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The song "The Look" almost instantly became a national radio favorite, paving the ground for the official release of the song to rocket to the top of the U.S. pop charts.

Look Sharp! had finally found a place in the heart of American listeners, who embraced the energy of Fredriksson's delivery of "Listen to Your Heart" and "Dangerous." On the whole,even the most jaded music journalism welcomed Roxette's crackerjack ability to produce catchy tunes during a relative drought of pop music. Critics like Musician's Jon Young made no great claims for Roxette as innovators, however. "Not surprisingly, Roxette's music tends to fall apart when examined closely," Young wrote in June of 1989. "The playing (or programming) never transcends anonymity, and for all the sound and fury, the songs are eerily passionless. Which of course misses the point entirely. Rather than presuming to offer meaning or substance, Look Sharp! merely wants to join the modern media din. But it is kinda fun." Such equivocated praise comprised the overall flavor of most of Roxette's subsequent reviews.

After a popular European tour, Roxette began work on their follow-up to Look Sharp! and along the way decided to re-record one of the stronger cuts from Pearls of Passion, "It Must HaveBeen Love." The duo was so pleased with the strength of the ballad that it was the intended centerpiece of their next album, but instead it was integrated into the soundtrack for the 1990 filmPretty Woman as well as becoming a number one single. Soon after Gessle found a forgotten note left on a table reading "Hello, you fool! I love you," which became the lyrical hookline for another song equally worthy as a title track. The scrap of whimsical dialogue was transformed into the song "Joyride," the first single of the 1991 album of the same name.

More than Another Abba

Since the release of Look Sharp!, Roxette had been unduly compared to the Swedish groupAbba. Aside from their Scandinavian heritage and penchant for crafting international hits, Roxettehad little resemblance to those earlier legends of icy-cool pop, and some critics began to point out the discrepancy upon the release of their new album. "Overall, what ultimately defines Joyrideare the performances, and that marks the most important difference between Roxette and Abba,"J.D. Considine wrote in Rolling Stone. "By emphasizing its sense of personality, Roxette delivers more than just well-constructed hooks; this music has heart, something that makes even the catchiest melody more appealing."

While Roxette did not seriously depart from their established style with Joyride, the album did reveal an influx of new idea sources such as hip-hop and classic rock. Gessle himself made it clear that a credo of easygoing pop still ruled his songwriting efforts. "[T]he trick is not to think too much about it," he told Musician. "Try the first thing that pops into your mind, if it makes sense. If it's work, skip it. But if you have lots of instrumentalists and soloists, it makes the whole album much more interesting." In the final instance, the public's acceptance of Joyride's selection of pop songs and ballads exceeded that of Look Sharp!, with the title cut and the single"Fading Like A Flower" scoring heavily on sales charts.

Hot on the heels of Joyride, Roxette launched a 108 date world tour that spanned four continents, piecing together a collection of live cuts and ou ttakes entitled Tourism: Songs from theStudios, Stages, Hotel rooms, and Other Strange Places along the way. While the album's success in the U.S. was limited, it eventually sold over four million copies worldwide. This was perhaps the first indication of Roxette's falling out with American audiences, but throughout the globe their popularity was still immense. Having become the biggest Swedish stars since Abba, the membersof Roxette were commemorated by their country's government when Gessle and Fredriksson's faces were cast upon a series of postage stamps.

Roxette enjoyed a several year hiatus after their world tour, inciting talk of the band's breakup. Roxette dispelled such rumors with the release of Crash! Boom! Bang! in 1994, an album recorded in a number of locations that included London, England and Isola di Capri, Italy. For many critics, however, the record was not worth the wait, and largely faulted the higher number of tunes sung by Gessle. "As with the duo's previous work, Crash! Boom! Bang! hits its best notes when Fredriksson is at the mike," judged People magazine. "Her vocals on the ballads'Run To You,' 'What's She Like,' and the title song are more subtle and graceful than her partner's grating, affected rasp." Entertainment Weekly's Devon Jackson was in agreement,writing that "[i]f only Per Gessle had let the charged up Marie Fredriksson sing vocals on all 15songs, Crash might've qualified as an unqualified guilty pleasure."

Maintained Status as International Stars

Although sales of Crash! Boom! Bang! were not disastrous, it was Roxette's weakest performance to date, especially in the American market. Despite having initially courted U.S. listeners, Roxette began in turn to shy away from America, skipping over the country during their 1994 tour. For the rest of the world, Roxette were still hot property, as illustrated by the demandfor their 1995 compilation release Don't Bore Us, Get To The Chorus! With its title aptly summing up Roxette's pure-pop-or-nothing philosophy, Don't Bore Us was a greatest hits cumremix package that sold over four million copies, even though EMI decided not to release it in the U.S.

Over the next few years, Roxette kept a lower profile than ever, surfacing only for an occasional repackaging of previously released material, including a collection of hard to find B-sides and remixes, Roxette Rarities, and the 1997 reissue of Pearls of Passion, the original havingbecome an expensive collector's item. Roxette took one step further away from the English speaking world with the 1996 release Baladas En Espanol, a collection of twelve of Roxette'schoice ballads re-recorded in Spanish. Still superstars across Europe and South America, Gessle and Fredriksson announced that a new Roxette album would be completed by the end of 1998.
Roxette's Career
Band formed in 1986, in Halmstad, Sweden, by Gessle and Fredriksson, signed toEMI Sweden; releaseddebut album Look Sharp!, 1988; contributed "It Must Have Been Love"to the Pretty Woman soundtrack, 1990; released Joyride, 1991; given their own postage stamp bythe Swedish government, 1991; sold over a million copies of Crash! Boom! Bang! sampler throughMcDonald's fast food chain, 1994; released greatest hits album Don't Bore Us, Get To TheChorus! worldwide, except in the U.S., 1995.

Madonna : Vogue

2009-04-05T23:03:00.000-07:00

Vogue, vogue
Vogue, vogue
Go with the flow
Go with the flow
Come on, vogue
Let your body move to the music, hey, hey, hey
Come on, vogue
Let your body go with the flow, you know, you can do it
Look around everywhere you turn is heartache
It's everywhere that you go
You try everything you can to escape
The pain of life that you know
When all else fails and you long to be
Something better than you are today
I know a place where you can get away
It's called a dance floor, and here's what it's for, so
Come on, vogue
Let your body move to the music, hey, hey, hey
Come on, vogue
Let your body go with the flow, you know you can do it
All you need is your own imagination
So use it that's what it's for
Go inside, for your finest inspiration
Your dreams will open the door
It makes no difference if you're black or whiteIf you're a boy or a girl
If the music's pumping, it will give you new life
You're a superstar, yes, that's what you are, you know it
Come on, vogue
Let your body groove to the music, hey, hey, hey
Come on, vogue
Let your body go with the flow, you know you can do it
Come on, vogue
Let your body go with the flow, you know you can do it
Beauty's where you find it
Not just where you bump and grind it
Soul is in the musical
That's where I feel so beautiful
Magical, life's a ball
So get up on the dance floor
Come on, vogue
Let your body groove to the music, hey, hey, hey
Come on, vogue
Let your body go with the flow, you know you can do it
Vogue, vogue
Vogue, vogue
A pose
A pose
Vogue,
vogue
Vogue, vogue
Beauty's where you find it
Move to the music
Vogue, vogue
Beauty's where you find it
Go with the flow
Greta Garbo and Monroe
Deitrich and DiMaggio
Marlon Brando, Jimmy Dean
On the cover of a magazine
Grace Kelly, Harlow, JeanPicture of a beauty queen
Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire
Ginger Rogers, dance on air
They had style, they had grace
Rita Hayworth gave good face
Lauren, Katherine, Lana too
Bette Davis, we love you
Ladies with an attitude
Fellows that were in the mood
Don't just stand there, let's get to it
Strike a pose, there's nothing to it
Vogue, vogue
Vogue, vogue
Let your body move to the music
Ooh, you've got to just
Let your body go with the flow
Ooh, you've got to
Let your body move to the music
Ooh, you've got to just
Let your body go with the flow
Ooh, you've got to
Let your body move to the music
Ooh, you've got to just
Let your body go with the flow
Ooh, you've got to just
Let your body move to the music
Ooh, you've got to just
Let your body go with the flow

Madonna Biography

2009-04-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

Singer, performer, actress. Born Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone in Bay City, Michigan, on August 16, 1958, to parents Silvio "Tony" Ciccone and Madonna Fortin. Tony, the son of Italian immigrants, was the first of his family to go to college, where he earned a degree in engineering. Madonna's mother, an x-ray technician and former dancer, was of French Canadian descent. After their marriage in 1955, the couple moved to Pontiac, Michigan, to be close to Tony's job as a defense engineer. Madonna was born three years later, during a visit with family in Bay City. The third of six children, Madonna learned early on how to handle her role as the middle child, admitting that she was "the sissy of the family" who often used her feminine wiles to get her way.
Her parents' strict observation of the Catholic faith played a large role in Madonna's childhood. "My mother was a religious zealot," Madonna explains. "There were always priests and nuns in my house growing up." Many elements of Catholic iconography-including her mother's statues of the Sacred Heart, the habits of the nuns at her Catholic elementary school, and the Catholic altar at which she and her family prayed daily-later became the subject of Madonna's most controversial works.
Another heavy influence on Madonna's early life was her mother, who was diagnosed with breast cancer during her pregnancy with Madonna's youngest sister. Treatment had to be delayed until the baby reached full term, but by then the disease had grown too strong. On December 1st, 1963, at the age of 30, her mother passed away. Madonna was five years old.
Her mother's death significantly affected Madonna's adolescence. Haunted by the memories of her mother's frailty and passive demeanor during her final days, Madonna was determined to make her own voice heard. "I think the biggest reason I was able to express myself and not be intimidated was by not having a mother," she says. "For example, mothers teach you manners. And I absolutely did not learn any of those rules and regulations."
She fought especially hard against the rules imposed by her stepmother, Joan Gustafson, who met Madonna's father while working as the family housekeeper. Madonna says Gustafson often made her take care of the younger children in the household, a task she greatly resented. "I really saw myself as the quintessential Cinderella," Madonna later said. "I think that's when I really thought about how I wanted to do something else and get away from all that." She rebelled against her traditional upbringing by turning her conservative clothing into revealing outfits, frequenting underground gay nightclubs, and rejecting her religious background.
But Madonna balanced this insubordinate side of her personality with a drive for perfectionism and high-achievement. She was a straight-A student, cheerleader, and disciplined dancer who graduated from high school a semester earlier than her peers. In 1976, her hard work earned her the attentions of the University of Michigan, which offered her a full scholarship to their dance program.
In 1977, during her undergraduate studies at Michigan, Madonna was awarded a six-week scholarship to study with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City, followed by a rare opportunity to perform with choreographer Pearl Lang in 1978. At the urging of her dance instructor, the budding star dropped out of college after only two years of study in order to move to New York and further her dance career. Once in New York, Madonna paid her rent with a handful of odd jobs, including nude art modeling, serving at the Russian Tea Room, and performing for the American Dance Center. In 1979, Madonna began dating Dan Gilroy, one of the founding members of a ska influenced pop-punk band called Breakfast Club. Gilroy introduced Madonna to the head of a vaudeville review in Paris, and she spent some time in France working as a showgirl. During this trip she fell in love with the combination of singing and performing. When she returned to the states in 1980, she joined Gilroy's band as its drummer and later became its lead singer. Madonna formed several different bands of her own over the next few years, including Madonna & The Sky, The Millionaires and Emmy.
In 1981, Madonna decided to go solo and hired manager Camille Barbone of Gotham Records, to help her get her singing career on track. Camille showed Madonna how to navigate the male-dominated world of the music business, and helped put together a studio band that accentuated the budding star's hip style. Friend Stephen Bray, a musician in her band, wrote her first hit, "Everybody", and Madonna used her brash business style to get the recordings to DJ and New York music producer Mark Kamins. Kamins then helped Madonna score a record deal with Sire Records. "Everybody" hit number one on the dance charts in 1982.
Using the success of the song as leverage, Madonna convinced Sire to produce the full-length album, Madonna, in 1983. The album was a slow but steady success, and included the hit singles "Borderline", "Lucky Star", and "Holiday." Soon, girls all over the country were imitating Madonna's distinct sense of fashion, which included fishnet stockings, lace lingerie, fingerless gloves and large crucifix necklaces. The song "Holiday" also earned the singer an appearance on Dick Clark's American Bandstand in 1984. During her interview on the show, she told Clark that her main ambition was "to rule the world."
his intensity and determination was apparent in her 1985 follow-up album, Like a Virgin, which hit number one on the Billboard Chart and went platinum within a month. She also starred in her first mainstream feature film, Desperately Seeking Susan (1985), and performed its title track, "Crazy for You", which became an instant number-one hit. She then started her first music tour, The Virgin Tour and watched 17 consecutive songs climb into the Top Ten on the Billboard Chart. In the next five years, Madonna's life was a whirlwind of activity. On August 16, 1985, she married actor Sean Penn and co-starred with him in the film Shanghai Surprise (1986). She then went on to star in three more movies during the 80's: Who's That Girl? (1987), Bloodhounds of Broadway (1989) and Dick Tracy (1990). Madonna's soundtrack album I'm Breathless: Music from and Inspired by Dick Tracy resulted in two top-ten hits: "Vogue" and "Hanky Panky." She also produced four more hit albums: True Blue (1986), Who's that Girl? (1987), You Can Dance (1987), and Like a Prayer (1989). But, as always, Madonna mixed her drive for success with her penchant for scandalous behavior. It started with her controversial 1985 performance of her hit single "Like a Virgin" on the MTV music awards, which involved writhing around suggestively onstage in a wedding dress. Then came her marriage to Sean Penn, which was marred by reports of domestic violence and his assault of a photographer--behavior that landed him a month's jail time, and eventually led to the couple's very public divorce. This was followed by the debut of Madonna's1989 "Like a Prayer" video, which was to be aired on MTV as part of a lucrative Pepsi endorsement. The video featured interracial relationship themes, burning crosses, and a blending of sexual innuendo and religious ideologies. As a result of the video, the Pope John Paul II urged fans not to attend her concerts in Italy and Pepsi pulled their endorsement of the star. Despite the public outcry, Madonna had become more popular than ever. By 1991, she had achieved 21 Top Ten hits in the United States and sold more than 70 million albums internationally, generating $1.2 billion in sales. Committed to controlling her career, Madonna helped found Maverick Records, a label under the Warner Music Group, in April of 1992. She also continued to gain attention by pushing social boundaries. First came the documentary Truth or Dare (1991), a revealing documentary about her "Blonde Ambition" tour. This was followed by the publishing of Sex (1992), a soft-core pornographic coffee-table book featuring the pop star in a variety of erotic poses. Despite its controversial nature, Sex sold 150,000 copies on the day of its release in the USA alone. Three days later, all 1.5 million copies of the first edition were sold out worldwide, making it the most successful coffee table book ever released. The album, Erotica (1992), was unveiled at the same time and proved equally successful: by the end of 1993 it had reached double platinum status.
y 1996, Madonna had proven her versatility as a star in both film and music. She starred in the critically acclaimed film adaptation of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Evita (1996). She won a Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, and the song, "You Must Love Me," earned her an Academy Award for Best Music, Original Song. She also became a mother that same year, giving birth to Lourdes Maria (Lola) Ciccone Leon, whom she had with her lover and personal trainer, Carlos Leon.
She solidified her reinvention as the more mature, family-friendly Madonna when she married British director Guy Ritchie in 2000. She gave birth to their son, Rocco John Ritchie, the same year. She then made the move from the big screen to the London West End stage in the play Up for Grabs (2002), and wrote her first children's book, The English Roses, in 2003. Madonna was inducted into the inaugural UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004. With the release of her 2005 album Confessions on a Dancefloor, Madonna became the artist with the most gold certified singles in the US, beating the Beatles' long-standing record.
On the eve of her 50th birthday, Madonna faced fresh challenges in her personal life. She spent much of the last year fighting allegations that she circumvented traditional Malawi laws to bring home her newly adopted son, David Banda, whom she had been raising since 2006. Critics accused Madonna of using her vast wealth to fast-track the adoption process, a charge she has vigorously denied. A coalition of 67 local rights groups had challenged the interim custody order on the grounds that existing laws in Malawi do not allow for international adoptions. Madonna’s application to permanently adopt the boy was approved by Malawai’s high court on May 28, 2008, the pop star’s lawyer said. "It's a beautiful and positive judgment," Alan Chinula told reporters."Finally the court has granted Madonna full adoption rights of the boy ... It's all over, thank God."She also denied reports she was seeking a divorce from husband Guy Ritchie, and that she was romantically linked to baseball star Alex Rodriquez. In October of 2008, however, Madonna announced that she and Ritchie were officially splitting after eight years of marriage. Yet her professional life continued to boom: In January she was named the world's wealthiest female musician by Forbes magazine, with estimated earnings of more than $72 million in the last year alone. Madonna earned much of this income from her H&M clothing line, a deal with NBC to air concert footage, and her Confessions tour-the highest-grossing tour for a female artist to date. She also continues to sing, act and manage a number of business interests, splitting her time between the UK and the USA. She was the writer and executive producer of I Am Because We Are, a documentary about the lives of Malawi's AIDS orphans, and the arthouse film, Filth and Wisdom. Her album Hard Candy was released in April, and she is currently performing in her Sticky and Sweet tour.

Bon Jovi - Biography

2009-04-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Name : Bon Jovi

Date of Birth : March 2, 1962

Birthplace : Perth Amboy, New Jersey

Birth Name : Jon Francis Bongiovi Jr.

Height : 5' 10

Education : Sayreville War Memorial High School, Sayreville, New Jersey & Studied acting with Harold Guskin

Wife : Dorothea Hurley (married on April 29, 1989, in Las Vegas, Nevada)

Nationality : American

Relationship : Diane Lane (actress; broke up)

Real name : John Francis Bongiovi

Musician/rock star turned actor Chosen by People (USA) magazine as one of the 50 most beautiful people in the world [1996] Auditioned for the role of Ashe in The Crow: City of Angels (1996), but lost out to French actor Vincent Perez.
Appeared on the Star Wars Christmas album, "Christmas in the Stars". (as John Bongiovi).
The acoustical performance of "Livin' On A Prayer" and "Wanted Dead or Alive" that Jon and Richie Sambora performed at the 1989 MTV Video Music Awards is widely acknowledged as being the genesis/greenlight for MTV's "Unplugged" series.
Given title "Sexiest Rock Star" by People Magazine. [November 2000]
Children, with Dorothea Hurley, Stephanie Rose (b. 1993), Jesse James Louis (b. 1995), Jacob Hurley (b. 2002) and Romeo Jon (b. 2004)
The song "August 7", from his solo album Destination Anywhere, is a tribute to his friend/manager Paul Korzilius' daughter Katherine. She died at the age of six under mysterious circumstances on August 7, 1996.
Likes watching movies, driving cars, sleeping, eating junk food, working out at the gym, football, spending time with his family and playing with his dog Copper.
He's owned a few cars as well, a white Datsun 280Z in 1988, a '58 Corvette 1988-1992, a Ferrari 328 GTSI 1988-1992; in 1995 Jon owned a Ferrari, Camaro, 2 Corvettes, some Jeeps, Mustang Shelby and a 1957 Lincoln Premier, some motorcycles, among them a Harley Davidson and a snowmobile. In 1996 he owned a Harley Davidson, black Mercedes and a red 91/92 Corvette. He loves sports cars, especially Porsches.
Likes wearing casual clothes, jeans and shirts.
He has sensitive eyes against sunlight and cigarette smoke, that's why he always wears sunglasses. During spring he has allergies and hay fever.
He started smoking in 1994 during the making of Moonlight and Valentino (1995) but quit again. Picked it back up during the making of The Leading Man (1996) and after the 1996 tour because he "just likes it".
Italian-American
Dated award winning actress Diane Lane in the mid-eighties.
Mother is Carol Sharkey, one of the first Playboy bunnies
Brother of Anthony M. Bongiovi and 'Matthew Bongiovi' .
Has worked on behalf of the Special Olympics, the American Red Cross, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and other groups.
Son, Romeo Jon, born on March 29, 2004, and weighed 9 lbs. 7 oz.
Shares a birthday with Coldplay singer Chris Martin.
He was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Monmouth University in 2001
Majority owner of the Philadelphia Soul (Arena Football League), which began play in 2004.
He was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, but he grew up in Sayreville, New Jersey.
Campaigned for Al Gore in the 2000 Presidential election, and John Kerry in the 2004 Presidential election.
His band "Bon Jovi" were discovered when they won a local New York City(WAPP "The Apple" 103.5 "now defunct") radio station contest in the early 80's. The winning song was the now classic hit "Runaway".
Have a Nice Day, Jon's Bands new Album, reached #1 in Australia, Holland, Austria, Germany and Canada after just one week after release.
He is the credited with the start of the 'hair metal' movement in the 80s
Is co-owner of the Arena Football League team the Philidelphia Soul
John Francis Bongiovi Jr. was born March 2nd, 1962 at 8:45 pm in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, USA. He grew up in Sayreville. He was in previous bands such as Raze, Atlantic City Expressway (ACE), The Rest, John Bongiovi and the wild ones. Before the band, he worked in pizzarias, shoestores, sold burgers, worked in a autobodyshop and washed cars. He finally got his big break when WAPT, a local radio station, liked "Runaway", and included it on a compilation album. New York radio stations began playing it, so Jon needed to get a band together. Bon Jovi was finally complete when bass player Alec John Such introduced guitarist Richie Sambora to Jon. The band was named after Jon, but with the phonetic spelling of "Bon Jovi". Jon and the band have since experienced tremendous success with their music. Jon married his high school sweetheart, Dorothea Hurley, and they have two children - Stephanie Rose, and Jesse James Louis.

Bed of roses

2009-04-03T23:48:00.000-07:00

Sitting here wasted and wounded
At this old piano
Trying hard to capture
The moment this morning
I dont knowcause a bottle of vodka
Is still lodged in my head
And some blond gave me nightmares
I think shes still in my bed
As I dream about movies
They wont make of me when
Im dead
With an ironclad fist I wake up and
French kiss the morning
While some marching band keeps
Its own beat in my head
While were talking
About all of the things that
I long to believe
About love and the truth and
What you mean to me
And the truth is baby youre
all that I need
I want to lay you on a bed of roses
For tonite
I sleep on a bed on nails
I want to be just as close as the holy ghost is
And lay you down on bed of roses
Well Im so far away
That each step that I take is on my way home
A kings ransom in dimes
Id given each night
Just to see through this payphone
Still I run out of time
Or its hard to get through
Till the bird on the wire flies me back to you
Ill just close my eyes and whisper,
Baby blind love is true
I want to lay you down on a bed of roses
For tonite I sleep on a bed on nails
I want to be just as close as the holy ghost is
And lay you down on bed of roses
The hotel bar hangover whiskeys gone dry
The barkeepers wigs crooked
And shes giving me the eye
I might have said yeah
But I laughed so hard I think I died
When you close your eyes
Know Ill be thinking about you
While my mistress she calls me
To stand in her spotlight again
Tonite I wont be alone
But you know that dont
Mean Im not lonely
Ive got nothing to prove
For its you that Id die to defend
I want to lay you down on a bed of roses
For tonite I sleep on a bed on nails
I want to be just as close as the holy ghost is
And lay you down on bed of roses

The power of love

2009-04-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

The whispers in the morning
Of lovers sleeping tight
Are rolling like thunder now
As I look in your eyes
I hold on to your body
And feel each move you make
Your voice is warm and tender
A love that
I could not forsake
(first chorus)
cause I am your lady
And you are my man
Whenever you reach for me
Ill do all that I can
Lost is how Im feeling
lying in your arms
When the world outsides too
Much to take
That all ends when
Im with you
Even though there may be times
It seems Im far away
Never wonder where I am
cause I am always by your side
(repeat first chorus)
(second chorus)
Were heading for something
Somewhere Ive never been
Sometimes I am frightened
But Im ready to learn
Of the power of love
The sound of your heart beating
Made it clear
Suddenly the feeling that I cant go on
Is light years away
(repeat first chorus)
(repeat second chorus)

Celine Dion Biography

2009-04-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Birthname: Céline Marie Claudette Dion
Nationality: Canadian
Born: Mar 30 1968 (41 years old)

Rising from humble beginnings in the small town of Charlemagne, Quebec, Celine Dion became one of the biggest international stars in pop music history, selling more than 100 million albums worldwide. The youngest in Adhemar and Therese Dion's family of 14 children, Dion grew up in an environment full of the inherent chaos and material austerity that comes with such a large working-class family. However, the Dion household was also one filled with love for children and music, and her parents and siblings were important figures in the early development of her singing career. Celine began singing in her parents' piano bar when she was just five years old. By the age of 12 she had written one of her first songs, "Ce N'etait Qu'un Rêve" (It Was Only a Dream), which she recorded with the help of her mother and brother and shipped off to a manager named René Angélil, whose name they found on the back of an album by Ginette Reno, a popular Francophone singer. After weeks with no response from Angélil, Celine's brother Michel phoned him and said, "I know you haven't listened to the tape, because if you had, you would've called right away." Angélil dug up the tape and called the family back the same day to set up a meeting with Celine. When the 12-year-old performed in his office in Montreal, Angélil cried and set in motion the process of making her a québécois, and later international, star. He mortgaged his house to pay for her first two albums, producing a local number one single. In 1983 she became the first Canadian to have a gold record in France and she won a gold medal at the Yamaha songwriting competition in Japan. Her worldwide reputation was in the making, but success in the United States was not yet forthcoming.
When she was 18, Dion saw Michael Jackson performing on television and told Angélil that she wanted to be a star like him. Angélil's response was to order her to take 18 months off to remake her image. Dion underwent a physical transformation, cutting her hair, plucking her eyebrows, and having her teeth capped to cover up the incisors that had caused a Quebec humor magazine to dub her "Canine Dion." She was also sent off to English school to polish the language that would help her to break into the American market. When she emerged from this process, she had made an amazing transformation from teen star to adult chanteuse. The payoff came almost immediately. Her 1990 breakthrough album, Unison, was released in the U.S. by Epic Records and produced several hit songs, but it was her duet with Peabo Bryson on the theme song of Disney's Beauty and the Beast that was her true breakthrough.
"Beauty and the Beast" reached number one on the pop charts and won both a Grammy and Academy award. The song was also featured on her second English album, 1992's Celine Dion, which launched another Top Ten American hit with "If You Asked Me To," while spawning two additional Top 40 singles, "Nothing Broken But My Heart" and "Love Can Move Mountains." During this time there were also important developments in Dion's personal life. In 1988 Angélil crossed the line from manager to romantic partner when he kissed Dion one night after a show in Dublin. Fearful that fans would find the 26-year difference in their ages unsettling, the couple kept their relationship a secret for several years. But their 1994 wedding in Montreal's Notre Dame Basilica was celebrated not only by the 250 invited guests, but by millions of fans worldwide.
One of the hardest-working stars in show business, Dion continued to record and perform on a schedule that would kill most people. She recorded six albums between 1992 and 1996, when her album Falling Into You took her to a new level of stardom. The recording was a runaway hit, winning Grammys for both Album of the Year and Best Pop Album. 1996 also brought her another honor; she was asked to perform at the opening ceremonies of the Atlanta Olympics. Dion's longest tenure on the pop charts would come the following year, however, when she recorded "My Heart Will Go On," the theme song for James Cameron's blockbuster movie Titanic. "My Heart Will Go On" became omnipresent on the radio as Titanic fever swept the world, and when it was featured on her album Let's Talk About Love, it helped propel that recording to the top of the charts. By then, Dion had the power to gather a supporting cast of stars, and the album contained an amazing collection of artists, including Barbra Streisand, Luciano Pavarotti, and the Bee Gees. The album would win a host of awards and bring Dion a whole new world of fans.
Her appearance on VH1's Divas Live special with Aretha Franklin, Gloria Estefan, Mariah Carey, and Shania Twain proved popular as well and helped solidify Dion's position among not only current female pop singers but historical greats like Franklin. The continuing popularity of her recordings and live performances made her 1999 sabbatical seem like a tragedy to her fans, but Dion needed a break after more than a decade and a half of breakneck pace. In 1999, her husband Angélil was diagnosed with throat cancer. While the disease responded well to treatment and went into remission, the illness was a wake-up call for Dion, who decided to put a new emphasis on her family life and announced a temporary retirement so that she could spend more time at home and have a child. After undergoing fertility treatments, she gave birth to a son in January 2001. The Collector's Series, Vol. 1 was released during Dion's hiatus; it featured many of her best-loved songs, as well as a Spanish-language version of "All by Myself."
Dion returned to the public eye in a big way in March 2002 with A New Day Has Come. The album debuted at number one in over 17 countries, and was accompanied by a full-scale media blitz. But Dion's greatest challenge was yet to come. Despite millions of albums sold, the adoration of fans worldwide, and the validation of her peers, Dion's success was still hampered by image problems that had dogged her since the days of "Canine Dion." While many Americans adored her, just as many snickered at her québécois heritage and the relative the unorthodoxy of her marriage. There was also the issue of her relevancy to lucrative audiences existing outside of her pop vocal constituency. To combat these issues, Dion and her management made a series of bold moves that attempted to solidify her career and ensure its continuity as she entered her mid-thirties.
In early 2002, Dion announced a three-year, 600-show contract to appear five nights a week in an entertainment extravaganza at Caesers Palace, Las Vegas, called A New Day. The production would take place in a custom-built, 4,000-seat theater and would feature Dion as the centerpiece of a multimedia program designed and orchestrated by Franco Dragone, the Belgian theater impresario behind the modern circus phenomenon Cirque du Soleil. The project united Dion, her label Sony Music, Dragone's production company Creations du Dragon, Caesars parent Park Place Entertainment, and promoter Concerts West in a landmark multi-million-dollar alliance that hinged on Dion's ability to put fans in seats five nights a week for three years. In conjunction with the rollout of A New Day was an endorsement deal with German automaker DaimlerChryslter AG worth additional millions. The campaign placed Dion in a series of stylish black-and-white advertisements promoting the stylish allure of Chrysler's line of upscale automobiles.
The performer also recorded a brand-new song to accompany the spots. Debuting in early 2003, the campaign dovetailed into the March release of One Heart, Dion's first album since 2001's A New Day Has Come, which in turn heralded the opening of A New Day on March 25, 2003. That live Las Vegas show was documented on the summer 2004 release New Day: Live in Las Vegas, which was followed a few months later by Miracle, a collection of family songs designed as a tandem book/CD project between Dion and photographer Anne Geddes. The two-CD compilation On Ne Change Pas appeared in 2005, featuring her most popular French-language songs and a new collaboration with the operatic pop vocal foursome Il Divo, "I Believe in You (Je Crois en Toi)." A new French-language album, D'Elles, arrived in May 2007 and debuted at the top of the Canadian album chart. In November of that same year, Dion released the English-language Taking Chances and announced a tour of South Africa and Europe scheduled for 2008.

My Heart Will Go On

2009-04-03T04:17:00.001-07:00

Every night in my dreams

I see you, I feel you

That is how I know you go on

Far across the distance

And spaces between us

You have come to show you go on

Near, far, wherever you are

I believe that the heart does go on

Once more you open the door

And you're here in my heart

And my heart will go on and on

Love can touch us one time

And last for a lifetime

And never let go till we're gone

Love was when I loved you

One true time I hold to

In my life we'll always go on

Near, far, wherever you are

I believe that the heart does go on

Once more you open the door

And you're here in my heart

And my heart will go on and on

You're here, there's nothing I fear

And I know that my heart will go on

We'll stay forever this way

You are safe in my heart

And my heart will go on and on