Waky Music News
WAKY MUSIC NEWS
Cher is proving she still has a voice -- even though it's been more than a decade since she released her last album. The 67-year-old pop legend gave a dazzling rendition of her new single, "Woman's World," on last night's finale of NBC's "The Voice." "Woman's World" is the lead-off single from Cher's upcoming album, "Closer To The Truth," which will be in stores in September. It's her long-awaited follow up to 2001's "Living Proof." Cher's appearance on the show was also special for another reason -- it was her first live TV performance in more than a decade.
But Cher wasn't the only veteran artist on hand as the NBC reality show named its latest winner. Bob Seger teamed up with finalists The Swon Brothers to perform his classic hit, "Night Moves." The Swon Brothers took third place in the competition. Danielle Bradbery got the nod, while Michelle Chamuel landed in the runner-up spot.
The Grateful Dead is facing legal action over a number of their movies. Filmmaker Len Dell'Amico is suing surviving members of the band along with Grateful Dead Productions and the Rhino and Shout! Factory labels, claiming they've violated his copyrights to the material. He explains in his suit that he was at the helm for the Dead's concert movies and documentaries produced between 1984 and 1991, and had an agreement with the group that he would retain ownership of the films. But he says neither the band nor the labels have paid him for recent reissues of the movies. Dell'Amico is asking a judge to officially proclaim him the owner of the material and issue an injunction blocking their future release. He's also seeking an unspecified amount in damages.
The Grateful Dead are being honored by another rock band. The National guitarist Bryce Dessner tells "Billboard" his group is working on a tribute album to the legendary San Francisco band that will also feature contributions from a number of other artists. The project -- dubbed "Dead Hot" -- has actually been in the works since 2011, but Dessner hopes to have it ready to put out next year. It will mark his second Dead tribute album following 2009's "Dark Was the Night," which he produced along with his brother and National bandmate, Aaron Dessner.
The Dead's late frontman Jerry Garcia is also being honored this summer with a special series of shows. Warren Haynes just launched the "Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration" tour, which will feature the Allman Brothers Band guitarist performing Garcia's music with local orchestras. His next show will be in Raleigh, North Carolina on Thursday.
KISS founders Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons continue to expand their Rock & Brews chain. Pitch.com says the rockers are taking their establishment to the heartland, and plan to open a restaurant in Overland Park, Kansas early next year. It's one of three locations slated to open in the coming months, and will be the first Rock & Brews away from the Pacific coast. Stanley and Simmons currently have two Rock & Brews operating in Southern California and one in Los Cabos, Mexico. In addition to Overland Park, the pair will soon open a Rock & Brews in Paia, Hawaii and in Los Angeles International Airport. At last month's opening of their Rock & Brews in Torrance, California, Stanley and Simmons said their goal is to have 100 more restaurants up and running in the next five years. Rock & Brews features a rock atmosphere and decor, and menu items with such rock-inspired names as the Aqualung Ahi Sandwich, the Freebird Chicken Sandwich, the Strawberry Fields Salad, and the Satisfaction Sundae.
David Bowie, Neil Young, and Yoko Ono are among the nominees for tonight's O Music Awards. Bowie's video for "The Stars (Are Out Tonight)" is getting recognized for going a bit over the top. It's among the clips in the Too Much Ass for TV category, which is described as "technological titillation - it's art, not porn." Bowie's competition includes Sigur Ros' "Valtari," Frank Ocean's "Pyramids," Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines," and DIIV's "Wait." Young is being honored for his work in audio technology and his Pono player, and has received a bid for the Analog Genius Award. He's up against Jack White, Beck, and Shone in the category. Yoko, meanwhile, has a nod for focusing her efforts in the opposite direction. She's vying for the Digital Genius Award along with Psy, Will.i.am, Trent Reznor, and the Russian band Pussy Riot.
The fan-voted O Music Awards celebrate songs, artists, and technology as well as the innovators and counter culture with a 24-hour live-streaming party. More than 50 bands will be performing throughout the country for the ceremony, which will begin this evening at 7:00 p.m. Eastern, 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Booker T. Jones is giving fans the chance to check out his new album, "Sound the Alarm." He's previewing the entire disc on RollingStone.com. The R&B-blues project includes a number of guest performers. Mayer Hawthorne is featured on the album's title track, while Anthony Hamilton contributes to "Gently." Guy Clark Jr. adds his guitar to "Austin City Blues," and Shelia E. and Poncho Sanchez join in on "66 Impala." Booker T. previously unveiled the album's lead-off single, "Watch You Sleeping," which features vocals from Bill Wither's daughter, Kori Withers. "Sound The Alarm" will arrive in stores on June 25th.
E Street Band members admit being Bruce Springsteen's group is a demanding job. Drummer Max Weinberg tells the UK's "Telegraph" that on most nights roughly 30-percent of the show is something "Bruce comes up with spontaneously," and they're "expected to know" every song they've ever played -- and to be able to deliver them without rehearsing. Guitarist Nils Lofgren admits that the need to be spontaneous has led him to travel with 30 instruments -- including a banjo, lap steel, pedal steel, and other guitars -- along with other equipment like capos and slides so he'll be ready for anything Bruce wants to do. But he doesn't mind -- to the contrary, Lofgren calls it a "very exciting" way to perform. Nils recalls at a recent show a sign Bruce saw out in the crowd inspired him to lead the band in a cover of Doby Gray's "Drift Away" -- a song they'd never performed before. He says Bruce "just started singing and it was spectacular."
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band are on their 2013 European Wrecking Ball Tour.
J.D. Souther says he doesn't put much stock in music categories.
But the singer-songwriter is primarily known for a particular type of music. He came to fame as part of the Southern California country-rock sound of the 1970s, along with the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and others. Souther is also identified with a particular genre in his latest acting gig. He has a recurring role on ABC's country music drama "Nashville," playing the part of the fictional country legend Watty White.
Streisand also made her unofficial Israel performance debut during the ceremony. After her speech she joined her fellow honorary degree recipients and others in singing the Israeli national anthem. Barbra will give her official first performance in Israel later this week with her first of two shows in Tel Aviv on Thursday.
The Outlaws are losing a guitarist. Billy Crain has announced in a Facebook post that he's having to leave the band's touring lineup "due to health issues." He doesn't reveal specifically what's wrong, but says his doctor has "ordered" him "off the road effectively immediately." Billy admits it's "a heartbreaking decision," because he loves his bandmates. He also asks his fans to "continue to support this mighty band as they will carry the torch" and will be his "friends for life." Crain adds that his hope now is that God will heal him and allow him to get back to where he needs to be.
Outlaws founder Henry Paul says the group is "saddened to see Billy leave," and adds that his "love and respect for Billy is immeasurable." He calls Crain "a one of a kind talent that can never be duplicated," and adds that he wishes Billy could remain with the band. But he says ultimately he wants Billy to "be healthy and live a long and happy life." Paul adds that the band plans to "find the right person" to join the group and "see to it that the Outlaws musical legacy never dies." The Outlaws' next show is coming up on Friday in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Paul doesn't say how the band plans to cover for Crain's absence at the show.
John Mellencamp, Neil Young, Willie Nelson, and Dave Matthews are making plans for this year's Farm Aid. The 2013 edition of the annual event is slated to take place at the Saratoga Springs Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, New York on September 21st. Ticket pre-sales for Farm Aid members start today, while the general public can begin purchasing tickets on June 28th. Tickets range in price from 45-dollars to 150-dollars. Mellencamp, Young, Nelson, and Matthews are the first confirmed performers for the show, while more artists are expected to be added to the lineup.
Through the concerts, the Farm Aid organization raises awareness and money to assist family farmers. Since its start in 1985, the charity has brought more than 43-million-dollars to fund programs that support family-run farms and promote the food they grow.
Bon Jovi won't be performing the Cleveland Browns' "Fan Kickoff Concert" next month as originally planned. The special show was slated to take place at the FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland on July 14th. Bon Jovi was to headline the event, which was also expected to feature an opening set from Michael Stanley. No reason for the cancellation has been given. Fans are being directed to return their tickets to the place of purchase for a refund.
The "Fans Kickoff Concert" was one of several summer stadium dates on Bon Jovi's schedule. The group is on their "Because We Can" tour in support of their latest album, "What About Now?" Bon Jovi is currently on the European leg of the trek, and will be performing in Berlin on Tuesday.
Warren Haynes is kicking off his concert salute to the Grateful Dead's late frontman. He's set to begin his "Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration" tour with a show in Pittsburgh tonight. Over the course of the nine-date trek the Allman Brothers Band guitarist will team up with local orchestras to perform Garcia's original songs along with classical interpretations of his work. JamBands.com adds that Warren will play Jerry's famed "Wolf" guitar during the shows.
The tour is starting with five shows in the Eastern U.S. Stops in Lennox, Massachusetts and Philadelphia later this month will also feature a psychedelic visual accompaniment from The Joshua Light Show. Warren will spend most of July with Gov't Mule in Europe, and resume the Garcia trek with a performance at Red Rocks in Morrison, Colorado on July 30th. He'll play the first of two shows in Garcia's hometown of San Francisco on August 1st -- which would have been Jerry's 71st birthday. The road trip will come to a close in Los Angeles on August 4th.
Warren Hayne's Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration tour dates
6/20 -- Raleigh, NC -- Red Hat Amphitheater
6/22 -- Lenox, MA -- Tanglewood Music Center
6/25 -- Philadelphia, PA -- The Mann Center for the Performing Arts
6/26 -- Vienna, VA -- Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
7/30 -- Morrison, CO -- Red Rocks Amphitheater
8/1 -- San Francisco, CA -- Davies Symphony Hall
8/2 -- San Francisco, CA -- Davies Symphony Hall
8/4 -- Los Angeles, CA -- Greek Theatre
A vintage lock of Mick Jagger's hair is hitting the auction block. The strands date back to the mid-1960s, when the Rolling Stones frontman was dating British model and actress Chrissie Shrimpton. According to Bonhams' description of the item, Mick and Chrissie spent some time at a farm Chrissie's parents owned, and at some point she gave Jagger a haircut. Chrissie's grandmother apparently found the loose locks and kept one in a small paper envelope, along with a note reading, "Mick Jagger's hair. After being washed & trimmed by Chris at Rose Hill Farm." Following the grandmother's death, Chrissie's aunt got the envelope, which Chrissie eventually received from a cousin after her aunt died.
Bonhams doesn't specifically identify Chrissie as the seller, but says the seller isn't going to make any money off the sale. Jagger's hair is expected to fetch between 24-hundred and 31-hundred dollars, which will go to the charity Changing Faces. The envelope is part of Bonham's Entertainment Memorabilia auction, scheduled to take place in London on July 3rd.
Aerosmith's Steven Tyler has numerous hit singles to his credit. But the rocker says he can still remember the first song he ever penned with bandmate Joe Perry. Aerosmith recorded "Movin' Out" for their 1973 self-titled debut album. Forty years later, Tyler and Perry received some formal recognition for their abilities to craft a tune. They're among the 2013 inductees into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, who were honored with an event in New York last week.
Black Sabbath is topping the UK album chart, and setting a new record in the process. The group's latest studio effort, "13," is landing at number one on Britain's Official Chart. It's only the second time in their career they've held the top spot on the UK albums list. Black Sabbath's only other chart-topper was their sophomore disc, "Paranoid," which hit number one in October 1970 -- 42 years and eight months ago. So with "13," the band is setting the record for the longest gap between number one albums in the UK. The previous record holder was Bob Dylan, who saw 38 years pass between his 1970 UK number one "New Morning" and his next chart-topper, 2009's "Together Through Life." Rod Stewart had held the record for a British artist, with a 37-year span between the number one album "A Night on the Town" in 1976 and last year's "Time."
In addition, Sabbath's "13" took the top spot on the UK chart by an appropriate margin. The group outsold this week's number two album, Beady Eye's "BE," by 13-thousand copies.
Queen's Brian May has more musical plans. The guitarist tells MTV News UK that he recently had "a very interesting chat" with "Gangnam Style" rapper Psy, which included thoughts on a collaboration. May explains that they have "a couple of ideas" in mind, and he's "up for it." He says he was quite impressed with the Korean star, calling him "a very thoughtful man and a significant artist." Brian adds that Psy is very knowledgeable about Queen, and credits the band as one of his biggest inspirations. May says Queen is also making plans to work again with singer Adam Lambert. He explains that they're "talking about doing something" together, "probably for TV." Brian admits they aren't "talking about touring yet," but are discussing "doing an event." Queen played a series of shows with Lambert last summer in Moscow; Kiev; Wroclaw, Poland; and London.
The reunion of Foreigner's Mick Jones and Lou Gramm might just be a one-off event. The two were honored together with an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and RollingStone.com says their performance was one of the highlights of the ceremony. Gramm even admits he and Jones could easily resume their musical partnership, but he doesn't think that's going to happen.
However, another pair of performers used the event to reconcile their friendship. One-time touring partners Elton John and Billy Joel had been on the outs in recent years, and have only traded a few cutting remarks about one another in the press. But Elton, who received the lifetime achievement award, closed his acceptance speech with the message that he loved Joel "dearly." And Joel responded when he took the stage. He wrapped up his introduction for Jones and Gramm by telling Elton they're "OK," and asking Elton to give him a call. The 44th annual Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner took place in New York
Todd Rundgren is upping the ante with this year's Toddstock. After launching the event at his home in Hawaii in 2008 for his 60th birthday, he's celebrating his 65th birthday with Toddstock 2 v6.5 on the mainland. Rundgren says he and his fans will "descend like locusts upon the unsuspecting landscape," launching the six-day event on Monday at the Nottoway Plantation and Resort in White Castle, Louisiana. He he's hoping the "more centralized location" will "allow 'Stockers to contribute infrastructure of their own devising," explaining that "tents are cool, but kissing booths are cooler!" He adds that they can bring their own "sushi bar" and "go nuts!" The festival will wrap up on Saturday, which is Todd's 65th birthday. The event also closes out Rundgren's spring tour in support of his latest album, "State."
Paul McCartney is earning praise for his Bonnaroo debut. RollingStone.com is calling his two-and-a-half-hour set "the single greatest Bonnaroo headlining performance in the festival's 12-year history." McCartney performed a full slate of Beatles songs along with a number of Wings hits during a show that the publication says also featured a "fall-of-Saigon-worthy fireworks display" that "dazzled the crowd." He was also quite personable, telling the audience at one point he could smell "some pretty good weed" wafting through the air, and he flexed a little political muscle in shouting "Free Pussy Riot!" in support of members of the jailed Russian punk band as he launched into "Let It Be." Sir Paul got the fans involved with such hits as "Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da," which is described as "an 80-thousand-strong saloon sing-along." McCartney's "countrified cover" of "Lead Belly's "The Midnight Special" was another highlight.
But ZZ Top isn't receiving similar accolades for their late night Friday set. "Rolling Stone" says Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill did "little to acknowledge that Bonnaroo was anything more than just another gig," describes their set as "tepid and lifeless." However, John Oates and Jim James apparently delivered during their late night set. Examiner.com says their all-star lineup -- which included Sly and the Family Stone's Larry Graham and The Alabama Shakes' Brittany Howard -- lived up to the "Superjam" name, and was bolstered by other guest performers. Highlights included a cover of Sam Cooke's "Long Time Coming" featuring R. Kelly and a rendition of T. Rex's "Bang A Gong" with Billy Idol, which helped make their set even better than expected. The four-day Bonnaroo Music And Arts Festival, which also featured performance from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Gov't Mule, David Byrne and St. Vincent, and many others, wrapped up Sunday 6/16/13 in Manchester, Tennessee.
Heart is on the road, and Jason Bonham is on board for the trek. Concerts will feature opening sets from Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience along with a full set from Heart. The two groups will then share the stage, delivering a collaborative 30-minute Zeppelin tribute as the concert finale. The trek grew out of last December's Kennedy Center Honors salute to Led Zeppelin, which featured the Wilson sisters teaming with Bonham on "Stairway To Heaven." Ann Wilson has said this trek will be special and fans can expect "miracles" to happen at any time.
Heart-Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience Tour Dates
June 20 - Atlanta, Georgia, at the Chastain Park Amphitheater
June 21 - Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
June 22 - Raleigh, North Carolina, at the Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion
June 24 - Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the Farm Bureau Live
June 25 - Washington, DC, at Jiffy Lube Live
June 27 - Wantagh, New York, at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
June 28 - Boston, Massachusetts, at the Comcast Center - Mansfield MA
June 29 - Bethel, New York, at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
July 2 - Holmdel, New Jersey, at the PNC Bank Arts Center
July 3 - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the Susquehanna Bank Center - Camden
July 4 - Uncasville, Connecticut, at the Mohegan Sun Arena
July 19 - Detroit, Michigan, at the DTE Energy Music Theater
July 21 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at the First Niagara Pavilion - Burgettstown
July 22 - Cleveland, Ohio, at the Blossom Music Center
July 23 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada, at the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
July 27 - Cincinnati, Ohio, at the Riverbend Music Center
July 29 - Chicago, Illinois, at the Ravinia Festival
July 30 - Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Klipsch Music Center
August 1 - West Allis, Wisconsin, at the Wisconsin State Fair
August 14 - Houston, Texas, at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
August 15 - Dallas, Texas, at the Gexa Energy Pavilion
August 17 - St. Louis, Missouri, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
August 18 - Kansas City, Missouri, at the Starlight Theater
August 20 - Denver, Colorado, at the Fiddler's Green Amphitheater
August 22 & 23 - Los Angeles, California, at the Greek Theater
August 24 - Indio, California, at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
August 26 - San Diego, California, at the Open Air Theater
August 27 - Santa Barbara, California, at the Santa Barbara Bowl
August 28 - San Francisco, California, at the America's Cup Pavilion
August 30 - Portland, Oregon, at the Sleep Country Amphitheater
The Who's Roger Daltrey is heaping some hefty praise on his band. The singer tells "NME" he believes The Who was the greatest rock band of their day, saying he doesn't think "there was any band to hold a candle" to The Who in their heyday. Daltrey explains that while some people voiced a preference for Led Zeppelin over The Who back in the '70s, that was because Zeppelin's music is "easier on the ear in a way," and "a little bit more commercial." Meanwhile, he says "the energy that used to come out" from a Who concert "was terrifying." Roger adds that the only thing The Who should perhaps "apologize for is the haircuts."
The Who is currently on the European portion of their "Quadrophenia" tour, which wraps up next month. But Daltrey isn't ready to call the trek the group's final tour. He says performers should never announce a "farewell" trek because "music isn't like that" -- it's "in the blood." Roger explains that once a tour is over "you'll be sitting there not wishing to get onto a stage again" a few months or maybe even a year, but "then suddenly you'll wake up and feel like you've got to do it again."
There's one person who thinks singer-songwriter J.D. Souther is more than deserving of his recent Songwriters Hall of Fame induction. Peter Asher says Souther is an incredibly talented artist. Asher came to fame as half of the British pop duo Peter and Gordon, and following their split in 1968 continued his music career as a manager and producer. One of his two Producer of the Year Grammys is for Linda Ronstadt's "Simple Dreams," which features one of Souther's songs. Souther is best known for the chart-topping 1979 hit "You're Only Lonely." But he's also worked with such stars as the Eagles, James Taylor, Dan Fogelberg, and many others. And a new crop of fans are now getting to know him as an actor -- in a role that isn't a huge stretch for him. Souther is featured as songwriter and producer Watty White on ABC's country music drama "Nashville."
Pantera, Iron Maiden, Slayer, and Queen are some of the winners at this year's "Kerrang!" Awards. Pantera earned the Hall of Fame Award at the event, while Iron Maiden captured the Inspiration honors. Slayer's Kerry King was on hand to accept the Legend Award on behalf of his band, while Queen was recognized with the Service to Rock prize. Fall Out Boy, Black Veil Brides, and All Time Low also took awards at the event, which were presented in London on Thursday 6/13/13.
Joan Jett isn't pleased that Hot Topic has launched a new lingerie line under the "Blackheart" name. TMZ.com says the rocker, who has worked under the "Blackheart" moniker for decades, is suing the retailer for trademark infringement. She claims the company has stolen both her name and style for the new product. The advertising slogan for Hot Topic's Blackheart brand is "lingerie for girls who rock and roll." Jett is suing through her Blackheart Records label, which is asking for damages as well as an injunction to keep Hot Topic from continuing to sell the lingerie.
But a rep for Hot Topic says the company isn't doing anything wrong. In a statement to TMZ, the retailer says the lawsuit is "a surprise" to them, and that the company has "compensated Ms. Jett over the many years in keeping with mutually agreed-upon license agreements." The rep adds that Hot Topic is "confident" in their rights to the Blackheart name.
Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell is expressing his gratitude for the response to his cancer announcement. The rocker says in a new Facebook post he's "very, very touched" by the outpouring of support, and adds that he has "no intention" of letting the disease slow him down. He adds that in addition to hitting the road with Def Leppard later this month, he remains committed to the upcoming Last In Line shows. Campbell spearheaded the reunion of surviving Dio members, who are planning to play a series of dates in August under the name Last In Line. The group, featuring Campbell with drummer Vinny Appice, bassist Jimmy Bain, and keyboardist Claude Schnell with singer Andy Freeman, announced four UK shows last month, starting with a concert in Belfast, Northern Ireland on August 8th. Def Leppard's tour begins with an appearance at the HellFest in Clisson, France on June 21st, and wraps up with a show in Canandaigua, New York on July 17th.
Campbell announced earlier this week that he's been diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, and that he recently began a six-month course of chemotherapy in his battle with the disease. He also voiced confidence in his recovery, saying this form of cancer has a cure rate of over 80-percent. Dio lost their namesake frontman, Ronnie James Dio, to stomach cancer in May 2010.
The Grateful Dead's Bob Weir is back in action. Nearly two months after collapsing during a concert in New York, RollingStone.com says the 65-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Famer made his comeback Wednesday night 6/12/13, hosting a show at Terrapin Crossroads in San Rafael, California as he resumed his "Weir Here" weekly web series. He also fielded questions from the crowd, but nobody asked about his recent health scare. And Weir wasn't exactly forthcoming with information or an update, aside from saying he's "doing just fine." The "Marin Independent Journal" adds the veteran rocker was in good spirits during the intimate show, during which he performed before an audience of about 200 people. And in honor of the occasion, "God bless the Weirwolf" stickers were distributed throughout the crowd.
Jackson Browne is stepping up to help storm relief efforts in Oklahoma. The singer-songwriter is one of the artists on board for the upcoming "Rock For Oklahoma" show, which will take place at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City on July 23rd. Tickets go on sale today. The Oklahoma City-based Flaming Lips, Kings of Leon, and Built To Spill are also set to perform, while more acts are expected to be added to the lineup. Money raised through "Rock For Oklahoma" will go to a number of local charities throughout central Oklahoma that are assisting residents as they rebuild following last month's devastating storms. Two massive and deadly F5 tornados tore through the Oklahoma City area in the last eleven days of May, while other smaller twisters also touched down and caused additional damage to the region.
Bad Company is back on the road -- for the first time in over a decade. The band is celebrating their 40th anniversary with the trek, which they'll kick off with a show in Rancho, Mirage, California on Saturday. The tour extends into the fall, and will come to a close with a performance at the Los Angeles County Fair on September 29th. Bad Company's 30-date run includes a number of co-headlining shows with Lynyrd Skynyrd. The rockers will play their first of ten collaborative concerts in Auburn, Washington on June 20th.
Bad Company formed in 1973 as the supergroup teaming of Free's Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, Mott The Hoople's Mick Ralphs, and King Crimson's Boz Burrell. Rodgers, Kirke, and Ralphs are all on board for the trek. Burrell passed away in 2006. Bassist Todd Ronning, from Rodgers' solo touring band, is filling in, while guitarist Howard Leese rounds out Bad Company's touring lineup. The trek marks Bad Company's first extended outing since 2002, and is the first tour since 1999 to feature all surviving original group members.
Bad Company Tour Dates
June 20 - Auburn, Washington, at the White River Amphitheater - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
June 21 - Ridgefield, Washington, at the Sleep Country Amphitheater - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
June 23 - Mountain View, California, at the Shoreline Amphitheater - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
June 25 - Del Mar, California, at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, at the San Diego County Fair
June 28 - Hammond, Indiana, at The Venue at Horseshoe Casino
June 29 - New Lennox, Illinois, at the Community Theater
July 3 - Riverside, Iowa, at the Riverside Casino and Golf Resort
July 5 - Hinckley, Minnesota, at the Grand Casino Hinckley Amphitheater
July 7 - Airway Heights, Washington, at the Northern Quest Casino
July 10 - Houston, Texas, at the Verizon Theater at Grand Prairie
July 11 - Grand Prairie, Texas, at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 13 - Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 14 - Bristow, Virginia, at Jiffy Lube Live - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 16 - Lewiston, New York, at the Artpark Amphitheater
July 17 - Camden, New Jersey, at the Susquehanna Bank Center - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 19 - Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, at the First Niagara Pavilion - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 20 - Noblesville, Indiana, at the Kilpsch Music Center - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 23 - Clarkston, Michigan, at the DTE Energy Music Theater - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 24 - Cincinnati, Ohio, at the Riverbend Music Center - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 26 - Gilford, New Hampshire, at the Meadowbrook - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 27 - Bethel, New York, at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts - with Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 29 - Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center
August 2 - Solomons, Maryland, at the PNC Waterside Pavilion
August 3 - Rama, Ontario, Canada, at the Casino Rama Entertainment Centre
September 14 - Penticton, British Columbia, Canada, at the South Okanagan Events Centre
September 18 - Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada, at the Red Robinson Show Theater at Boulevard Casino
September 19 - Manson, Washington, at the Mill Bay Casino - Deepwater Amphitheater
September 27 - Lincoln, California, at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort
September 29 - Pomona, California, at the Los Angeles County Fair
A man in Britain is driving his neighbors up the wall with Pink Floyd's "The Wall" -- and other albums by the classic rock band. The UK's SWNS.com says Paul Foster was jailed on Tuesday 6/11/13 for violating an injunction barring him from playing music at his home at an excessively loud volume. It was the fifth time he'd disregarded the injunction. One area resident calls living near Foster "a nightmare," explaining that he likes "Pink Floyd as much as the next man, but not when it's being played ten times a day until 4:00 a.m." The neighbor adds that sometimes Foster would blare Marvin Gaye and Barry White at all hours of the night, but "it was mainly Pink Floyd." Another neighbor says Foster has lived in his home since the early 1990s, and the noise problem has been "going on for years."
Authorities began taking action last fall, and Foster made his first court appearance in September. He was also brought in for violating an "undertaking to his future conduct" agreement last October and December. He was hit with a new injunction in January, and also sentenced to 21 days in jail and a suspended one-year jail term. In February Foster faced a judge again for violating the injunction, and after admitting to more violations he began a 63-day jail stay on March 20th. He was cited again on May 30th.
The Rolling Stones have tapped yet another country star to join them for a show. The band announced this week that Brad Paisley would be a guest performer at their show in Philadelphia on June 18th. Over the course of their "50 and Counting" trek, the Stones have also shared the stage with country stars Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban
Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Joe Perry say a bit of absentmindedness and a Mel Brooks film all contributed to one of the band's biggest hits. Tyler tells "The New York Post" he'd written a number of lyrics for the band's album "Toys in the Attic," but on his way to the studio "left them in a cab." The singer says that after confessing to his bandmates, he set out to recreate what he'd written while everyone else went to see Brooks' movie "Young Frankenstein." Perry recalls that when they returned they were "throwing lines from the movie back and forth" -- including the phrase "walk this way" -- which Tyler says was "just the perfect thing." "Walk This Way" is only of many one classic rock hits Tyler and Perry have written over the course of their 40-plus-year songwriting career. And now they've been recognized for their talents with an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Beatles are joining forces with Universal Music Group. The band's Apple Corps has inked a deal giving the legendary Fab Four's North American merchandising rights to UMG's Bravado International. Bravado CEO Tom Bennett admits his company is "extremely honored to have this opportunity to work with The Beatles." He also says they "fully recognize that representing artists of this magnitude comes with enormous responsibility," and Bravado will "apply the industry's best resources to execute the Beatles' vision to create products that their fans will love." A press release adds that Apple Corps and Bravado are "working together to create a wide range of new and unique offerings for the band," which they're expected to begin rolling out next month. The deal becomes official on July 1st.
Paul McCartney continues to share music and stories from his Beatles days. But the rock legend ran into a bit of a language barrier during his appearance Wednesday on Comedy Central's "The Colbert [[ Kohl-behr ]] Report [[ Re-por ]]." Sir Paul's explanation of why The Beatles decided to stop touring turned into a pronunciation debate with host Stephen Colbert. But when McCartney resumed his story he gave in, and pronounced the word "schedule" Colbert's way. He also discussed the evolution of his songwriting and The Beatles' creative process, as well as the challenges he faced starting over with Wings and how he encountered a cholera outbreak recording "Band on the Run" in Nigeria. In looking back, McCartney admitted he's had an extraordinary career. But he said he'll still "pinch" himself sometimes "and think, 'Done pretty good.'"
McCartney also performed on the show. He turned in a six-song set including the "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" cut "Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite" -- a song that just got its concert debut this year on McCartney's "Out There" tour. Paul will wrap up the first North America leg of the trek this weekend with an appearance at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Tennessee. Newly reissued editions of the 1976 album "Wings Over America" and the Wings concert DVD "Rockshow" are in stores now.
John Oates will be pretty busy at this year's Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. One of the three performances he'll give over the course of the four-day event will be as part of Saturday night's Rock N' Soul Dance Party Superjam. John says they've put together a "ridiculous band" featuring Sly and the Family Stone's Larry Graham, My Morning Jacket's Jim James, and others, and they'll be playing a great set.
Oates will also take the stage for an interview and performance on Friday, and play a solo set on Sunday.
Paul McCartney and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are among Bonnaroo's headliners, while
ZZ Top and Billy Idol are some of the other artists also playing late night sets at the event. Gov't Mule, David Byrne and St. Vincent, Bjork, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band a few of the many other performers on board for the multi-day, multi-stage event. The 2013 Bonnaroo Music And Arts Festival gets underway in Manchester, Tennessee today and continues through Sunday. The event's full schedule can be found at Bonnaroo.com.
Executives for AEG Live say Michael Jackson needed them more than they needed him. Testifying in the wrongful death trial for the late pop star, AEG CEO Brandon "Randy" Phillips told the court Wednesday about an emotional meeting he had with the King of Pop in 2008. According TMZ, Phillips described Jackson as tearful when the singer told him he didn't have enough money to buy a home and that he and his three children were living "like vagabonds." Phillips says Jackson told him he needed the "This Is It Tour" to make enough money to buy a home. He also said the pop star met with him a day later to reveal the home he wanted to buy - a 40-thousand-square foot estate worth an estimated 93-million-dollars. According to TMZ, Phillips told the court that he advised Jackson against shelling out so much money for a home. He wound up renting instead.
In more testimony Wednesday, Phillips also described the late King of Pop as "mercurial" and sometimes impossible to deal with. He said Jackson often changed his mind and wanted things at different times. Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson, is suing AEG Live, accusing the company of being negligent in hiring the doctor now serving time for the singer's 2009 drug overdose death.
In the midst of the wrongful death trial involving their brother Michael Jackson, the pop star's brothers are apparently preparing to perform at a venue owned by the company the family says is partly responsible for Michael's death. The revelation was made during testimony by AEG Live CEO Randy Phillips Tuesday. AEG Live attorney Marvin Putnam also noted that the brothers' June 30th Staples Center concert - falling less than a week after the fourth anniversary of Michael's death - will mark the third time since his passing that the family has worked with AEG Live. Jermaine, Tito, Jackie and Marlon Jackson are slated to perform as part of the upcoming BET Experience. Quoting a lawyer for their mother, Katherine Jackson, the "New York Daily News" says the brothers are simply dealing with the reality of AEG's dominant presence in the music industry. Kevin Boyle quipped, "Hopefully they'll survive their experience with AEG."
The Jackson family says AEG was negligent in their hiring of Dr. Conrad Murray to take care of Michael as he prepared for his concert comeback in 2009. AEG Live says Michael handpicked Murray to be his doctor. Murray is serving a four year jail sentence for involuntatary manslaughter in connection to the singer's drug overdose death.
Following a big night at the Tonys, the Broadway musical "Kinky Boots" has announced its plans to launch a national tour. The Best Musical winner won't be leaving New York until September 2014, when its road company will kick off the tour starting in Las Vegas. Along with one of the night's top prizes, "Kinky Boots" took away the award for Best Score, accepted by Cyndi Lauper, who wrote the music and lyrics for the Broadway adaptation of the movie about a British shoe factory that starts making thigh-high boots for drag queens to stay afloat. It marked the first time in Tony history that a woman had a solo win in the category. "Kinky Boots" also won Best Leading Actor in a Musical, Best Choreography, Best Sound Design and Best Orchestrations.
Ringo Starr is the subject of a new exhibit at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. The former Beatle says he's thrilled his collection of personal items on display at this particular venue.
"Ringo: Peace & Love" explores the career of the former Beatles drummer through a variety of memorabilia including never before seen photographs, personal letters, documents, and costumes. Visitors will even have a chance to take a drum lesson of sorts with the legendary rocker through an interactive display.
But the exhibit isn't the only thing keeping Ringo busy these days. He's also involved in two book projects. The rock legend is teaming up with Simon & Schuster on "Octopus Garden," a kids' book based on his song from The Beatles' "Abbey Road" album. The "Guardian" says "Octopus Garden" will be published in North America in January, and come with a CD of a previously unreleased song from Starr. Meanwhile, Ringo's "Photograph" is available as an iTunes exclusive. The e-book features snapshots of The Beatles and other moments from the legendary rocker's life.
The Rolling Stones teamed up once again with Guy Clark Jr. The Texas blues guitarist and singer took take the stage with the iconic rockers' during their concert at Boston's TD Garden. The gig was Clark's third performance with the Stones. He previously played the role of "special guest" at two of the Stones' shows back in December. Over the course of their "50 and Counting" trek the Stones have welcomed a variety of guests to join them. John Fogerty, Tom Waits, Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl, No Doubt's Gwen Stefani, and country stars Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban are just some of the stars who've shared the stage with the group.
The Who's Roger Daltrey will be raising money for charity with a special performance this summer. The rocker is slated to perform during the 2013 Summer Concert Series at Pacific Amphitheatre at Orange County, California's OC Fair. Money from the show will go to The Who's recently established Teen Cancer America. Daltrey will be taking the stage on August 10th -- filling in for The Doors' Robby Krieger and Ray Manzarek, who had to cancel their appearance following Manzarek's death last month. Roger says it's a bittersweet opportunity for him. He says he was "very sorry to hear of Ray's passing," but he believes Manzarek "would have appreciated that the proceeds of this show will go to such a worthy cause."
Tickets for the Manzarek-Krieger show will not be honored at the Daltrey concert. Those with tickets to the originally scheduled concert can get refunds from their place of purchase.
Eric Clapton is taking an unexpected break from his tour. Back problems forced the guitar great to make a last-minute cancellation of his Tuesday 6/11/13 show in Vienna, Austria. He's also scrapped his concert Wednesday in Stuttgart, Germany. A post on Clapton's website says the rocker is suffering from "severe back pain," and he's addressing the situation "with specialists who will be able to better determine the course of treatment." The message adds that Eric "was looking forward to these concerts and regrets" not being able to perform for his fans. He also extends his apology for "any inconveniences these cancellations may cause, and would like to thank the fans for their understanding." Clapton is expected to be back on his feet soon. He's slated to resume his European tour in Oberhausen, Germany on Friday. Eric is on the road in support of his most recent album, "Old Sock," which hit stores earlier this year.
Journey's former lead singer says he's recovering from a bout with skin cancer. Steve Perry shares in his blog that doctors recently removed a cancerous mole from his face. He adds that he was told they "think they got it all," and no further treatment is required. In the blog post, the 64-year-old Perry also describes the loss of his girlfriend Kellie Nash to breast cancer last December.
Black Sabbath's "13" is off to a strong start. The album hit stores in North America on Tuesday 6/11/13, and quickly topped the iTunes Top Ten Albums chart as well as the Rock Albums list in both the U.S. and Canada. Sabbath's new studio effort is also topping the iTunes chart in dozes of other countries, including Germany, Greece, Portugal, France, Japan, and their native UK. But band members aren't ready to read a lot into the early sales surge. Backstage at an online Town Hall event celebrating the release Ozzy said he was waiting to see how "13" does on "a national chart," like the Billboard 200. But he admitted it'd "be great if it gets to number one," especially since it would become both his and Black Sabbath's first U.S. chart-topper. Ozzy later added that he wasn't sure if he "trusted" the release-day chart, calling it "too much too soon." Bassist Geezer Butler referred to the album's instant success as "so incredible" and "amazing."
Osbourne has also said a number one album is not the most important component to a music career. He recently told "USA Today" he considered himself "very lucky" even without a U.S. number one album to his credit. The rocker explained that he's "seen the Peter Framptons come along, be massive, and peter off," while he and Sabbath have both "survived" and remained "relevant." Black Sabbath's "13" is the group's first album in 35 years to feature founding members Osbourne, Butler, and guitarist Tony Iommi.
The recording of the 911 call of Paris Jackson's suicide attempt has been released. The call between officials from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the L.A. County Sheriff's Department confirms earlier reports about the 15-year-old's injuries.
The Sheriff's Department official also said that Paris was "awake and breathing" at the time the call was made. Paris had reportedly contacted a suicide hotline herself. She was hospitalized last Wednesday after the incident and later transferred to UCLA Medical Center - the same hospital where her late father, the King of Pop Michael Jackson, was pronounced dead four years ago this month. A judge has since requested an evaluation of Paris' welfare under the guardianship of her grandmother Katherine Jackson. Sources tell TMZ Paris' biological mother Debbie Rowe could be considered to take on parental responsibilities if the court sees fit.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers want to find out what went wrong with last Saturday's show that prompted the Fire Marshal to shut it down. The rockers address the matter in a website post. They say the safety of their fans is their "primary concern and the most important consideration." The group adds that they're "still investigating exactly what happened," and so far have learned two things: that the show was not oversold, and that the problem just seemed to be with the number of people on the main floor. Petty and company explain that they "rely on the concert promoter and venue representatives" to give them "an accurate breakdown of the legal capacity for every part of the building and to provide security and other staff to enforce this."
Billboard.com says Sunday's show went on without incident. But Petty did discuss the incident during the show, saying he had nothing to do with Saturday's concert getting shut down. He added that even if he had to pay it himself, "everyone will be reimbursed." Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers will play the final show of their Fonda Theater run on Tuesday.
Bad Company has logged a career first. On Monday 6/10/13, the 40-year-old band made their late night TV debut, performing their namesake song on NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." The TV appearance is one of a few events leading up to Bad Company's 40th anniversary tour. The group will officially kick off their road trip with a show in Rancho Mirage, California on Friday.
Black Sabbath's new album "13" is in stores. The disc marks a reunion of founding members Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, and Geezer Butler, and is their first studio project together in 35 years. And Ozzy's glad they did it. He tells "USA Today" he felt there was "unfinished business" between them, given how they parted ways back in 1979, and he got a sense of closure with this album. But that doesn't mean the group is splitting up again. Ozzy says he's "sure" they're going to "do more stuff." Tony Iommi adds that they could easily make another disc. The guitarist explains that with their early records they'd write "just enough stuff for the album," but this time around they entered the studio with "a lot of ideas" and ended up with "more than enough" material for "many albums."
Black Sabbath will launch their North American tour in support of "13" next month. The group will kick off the trek with a show in Houston, Texas on July 25th.
Paul McCartney will be doing the giving on his birthday next week. The former Beatle is featured on a new song from Italian dance-punk artist Bloody Beetroots. RollingStone.com has unveiled a preview of the track, which also features Youth -- McCartney's electronic music partner in The Fireman. The song will have its official debut in a Facebook event on Friday, and be released on June 18th -- McCartney's 71st birthday.
ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons is adding some "Texas mud" to Depeche Mode's latest single. The guitarist teamed up with producer Joe Hardy on a remix of the British band's hit, "Soothe My Soul." Gibbons recently discussed the project with MusicRadar.com. He explained that ZZ Top was first introduced to synthesizers with their 1981 album "El Loco," and really embraced the technology on 1983's "Eliminator." Billy said back then "bands like Depeche Mode were leading the synthesizer charge," and he found it interesting that 30 years later Depeche Mode was turning to him for a remix of their song. He recalled that Depeche Mode frontman Dave Gahan told him the group was "looking for a little 'Texas mud' to go with the electronica." Gibbons and Hardy's remix is part of a six-track "Soothe My Soul" maxi single.
Billy Joel is moving out of his Miami mansion. Sources tell TMZ.com the singer's 88-hundred-square foot home sold for just under 14-million-dollars. The deal apparently closed Friday 6/7/13 with a key hand-over to Tod's shoe owner and Saks Fifth Avenue shareholder Diego Della Valle. The house is located on Miami's exclusive La Gorce Island where Cher, Lil Wayne and a number of other celebs have owned homes. It has seven bedrooms and eight-and-a-half baths. Joel reportedly bought the mansion for 13-point-five milliion-dollars in 2006. It had been on the market since May of last year.
AEG Live's CEO now says the favorable statements he made about Michael Jackson's doctor before the singer's death were not all true. Testifying at the trial for the Jackson family's wrongful death lawsuit against AEG Live Monday, Brandon Phillips told the court he thought what he said about Dr. Conrad Murray in an e-mail was accurate at the time. Five days before the singer's death, Phillips says Murray told him that Jackson was in good health and that he shared that information with the singer's "This Is It" tour director Kenny Ortega. But Ortega didn't see it that way citing Jackson's apparent lack of sleep and other physical problems at rehearsal. Phillips testified that he put stock in Murray's statements since he was in a position to make medical evaluations. In reference to Murray, he told Ortega in the e-mail exchange, "we check everyone out."
The Jackson family says AEG Live was negligent in hiring Dr. Murray to look after Michael as he prepared for his comeback concert series. But AEG says Jackson was the one who hired Murray as his personal physician as part of an independent contract arrangement. The cardiologist is serving a four year jail sentence for involuntary manslaughter in Jackson's 2009 drug overdose death.
The biological mother of the late Michael Jackson's daughter is reportedly ready and willing to take on full-time parental responsibilities if necessary. As a judge requests an evaluation of the Paris Jackson's welfare after a reported suicide attempt, sources tell TMZ.com it's a very real possibility that the teen could be placed under Debbie Rowe's supervision if an investigation comes up short of her needs. Paris' grandmother, Katherine Jackson was appointed guardian of Paris and her two brothers, Prince and Blanket, after the death of their father, pop superstar Michael Jackson in 2009. Paris has reportedly been spending more and more time with her birth mother in recent months, a relationship some say has been building out of Paris' increasing frustration with the unconnectedness she's feeling with her grandmother. Sources say Rowe would likely and gladly accept the situation if Paris wants her as her guardian.
Debbie Rowe was married to Michael Jackson from 1996 to 1999. She is also the biological mother of Paris' older brother Prince, though sources say he has not been as open to reconnecting with Rowe as his sister.
Apple's new mobile operating system will also include a free music streaming service. The announcement came today as the tech giant pulled back the curtain on iOS 7. The service is similar to Pandora, allowing users to select genres and artists to include in their personal station. It will also be included across all Apple devices and be free of ads for those who subscribe to the iTunes Match service.
Lauper started her speech by admitting that she'd been "practicing in front of the shower curtain for a couple of days." She also credited her music career to the Great White Way, explaining that she learned to sing by listening to her mom's original cast albums of Broadway shows, and thanked those she worked with on "Kinky Boots." The production, which Lauper and actor and playwright Harvey Fierstein adapted from the 2005 movie "Kinky Boots," led the way with 13 nominations heading into the event. The show took six awards, including the top prize of Best Musical.
The win was one of two times Lauper took the stage during the ceremony. She also performed her 1986 hit "True Colors" during the show's "In Memorium" segment.
The HBO film "Phil Spector" could receive some awards recognition. The controversial TV movie is among the nominees for the Critics' Choice Television Awards, taking place tonight in Beverly Hills. Al Pacino is up for Best Actor in a Movie or Mini-Series for his portrayal of the film's title character. His bid is one of HBO's network-leading 21 nominations, while "American Horror Story: Asylum" and "The Big Bang Theory" are the top contenders heading into the event. The Critics Choice Television Awards will be presented in a ceremony at The Beverly Hilton Hotel, and will be webcast live on UStream starting at 11:00 p.m. Eastern.
"Phil Spector" is described as a fictional story inspired by the legendary record producer's first trial for the 2003 shooting death of actress Lana Clarkson, which ended in a mistrial. Those behind the project have said it's not a dramatization of the case, and the movie opens with a disclaimer stating it's "not 'based on a true story.'" But both friends of Clarkson and Spector's wife, Rachelle Spector, have voiced objections to the movie over the ways they believe Phil and Lana are portrayed.
David Crosby believes his days of making music -- and his days in general -- are numbered. The rock legend tells "The Wall Street Journal" his "dream" is to head out on "one more tour with Crosby, Stills, and Nash" with his "friend" Neil Young, and then he'd "be able to sail," and "live," and "be happy." The 71-year-old Crosby explains that he'll be "lucky" if he lives another ten years, because he has hepatitis C, heart disease, and diabetes. But he says right now he's "managing" his conditions and is "feeling strong," and can "still make audiences feel great."
Along with music, sailing has always been his passion. David says he first stepped on a boat when he was eleven, and was "a natural sailor." He explains that he "knew instinctively what to do," and "sensed" that he'd done it before. Crosby says that experience was "one of the reasons" he wrote the hit "Déjà Vu." He bought his boat, the Mayan, back in 1970, but says these days he's having a tough time affording the maintenance and upkeep. He adds that he's actually had the boat on the market for the past few years, but he doubts he'll actually sell it.
John Oates has a new single out. The Hall & Oates singer teamed up with the band Hot Chelle Rae for the song "High Maintenance." Oates says it's one of several collaborations on his latest solo studio effort, "Good Road To Follow." Oates says he's enjoying making "Good Road To Follow," which isn't an album but a 12-track "musical journey" in which he'll release a new digital single every four weeks. John adds that the format is allowing him a great deal of creative freedom. He explains that since it's not an album he doesn't "have to worry about consistency and flow and continuity," but he can record whatever he wants and make each song completely different.
Fans can get "Good Road To Follow" with the purchase of a "passenger membership." A standard "ticket" is roughly the same price as a CD, and gives fans priority access to the material each month as well as a bonus song. A more expensive "platinum" membership also comes with a John Oates magnetic bottle opener, an Oates guitar pick, a limited edition "Good Road To Follow" t-shirt, and other goodies. Details are available at JohnOates.com.
Bad Company is doing something the group has never done before. The Paul Rodgers-fronted band made their first-ever stop on late night TV as the musical guest on NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" Monday 6/10/13. The "Tonight Show" visit is also launching a big week for the group. Tonight, Bad Company will be at The Grammy Museum in Los Angeles to give a special, intimate performance and take part in a Q-and-A session with fans. On Wednesday, Rodgers will be a guest on the syndicated radio show "Rockline." The events are all leading up to the launch of Bad Company's 40th anniversary tour. The 29-date trek, which includes more than a dozen co-headlining shows with Lynyrd Skynyrd, will begin in Rancho Mirage, California on Friday.
Tom Petty's still packing them in but it was a "heartbreaker" for fans on Saturday night 6/8/13 when fire marshals decided to shut his gig down. "The Los Angeles Times" says authorities moved in to move out an over capacity crowd at the historic Fonda Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard. Petty apparently informed the crowd a little after 10:30 pm that city officials told them "about 100" people either had to move to the balcony or leave the concert because of overcrowding. When no one took the bait, Petty stepped to the microphone during an instrumental break and told his fans the show was over. Petty and his band, the Heartbreakers, then left the stage, triggering boos from the crowd.
Lionel Richie will be hitting the road this fall. The R&B superstar has announced plans for his "All the Hits All Night Long" North American tour, which he'll launch in Hollywood, Florida on September 18th. The 17-date trek includes two headlining appearances at the Austin City Limits Festival in Austin, Texas in October, as well as stops in Mexico and Canada. Richie says he's looking forward to the trek. He explains that he's "so lucky" to have such an extensive collection of hits to perform for his fans, and most shows become "a giant sing-along."
Prior to the tour Lionel also has one overseas date booked. He'll be in England next month to cap off the British Summer Time ten-day Summer Party event with a headlining set on July 14th. He'll also be making a small screen appearance today. Richie is scheduled to perform on this morning's edition of ABC's "The View."
Lionel Richie North American Tour Dates
September 18 - Hollywood, Florida, at the Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
September 21 - Atlantic City, New Jersey, at The Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa Event Center
September 22 - Mashantucket, Connecticut, at the Foxwoods MGM Grand Theater
September 24 - Brooklyn, New York, at the Barclays Center
September 25 - Washington, DC, at the Patriot Center
September 27 - Atlanta, Georgia, at the Chastain Park Amphitheater
September 28 - Nashville, Tennessee, at the Bridgestone Arena
September 29 - Chicago, Illinois, at the United Center
October 2 - Rama, Ontario, Canada, at the Casino Rama
October 3 - Windsor, Ontario, Canada, at Caesars Windsor
October 5 - Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the Hard Rock Casino
October 6 - Austin, Texas, at the Austin City Limits Festival in Zilker Park
October 9 - Mexico, City, Mexico, at the Area de Ciudad de Mexico City
October 12 - Houston, Texas, at the Woodlands Pavilion
October 13 - Austin, Texas, at the Austin City Limits Festival in Zilker Park
October 17 - San Jose, California, at the HP Pavilion
October 18 - Los Angeles, California, at the Hollywood Bowl
Ringo Starr will be a guest on NBC's "Today" this morning. The TV appearance is coming a couple of days before the arrival of his new book, "Photograph," which features pictures from the former Beatle's personal archives. "Photograph" will be available as an iTunes ebook exclusive on Wednesday -- the same day the new exhibit "Ringo: Peace & Love" opens at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles.
Brian Wilson is continuing his relationship with Beach Boys bandmates Al Jardine and David Marks. The veteran rocker -- who'll turn 71 later this month -- has tapped them to join him on his new solo album. Wilson says the project was inspired by last year's Beach Boys 50th anniversary tour. He explains that he was "really moved by the fans' excitement," and he found his "head was full of music." Wilson has also invited guitar great Jeff Beck to contribute to the disc. Beck took part in the 2005 MusiCares tribute to Wilson. Brian says he was amazed at Jeff's rendition of "Surf's Up” and knew he "had to find a way to work with him." He adds that "Jeff's incredible guitar playing" is "exactly" what he wants for the album. Wilson says he's also looking forward to performing with Beck in the near future.
Wilson will be hitting the road this summer with Jardine and Marks. The three have a half-dozen dates scheduled for next month, starting with an appearance in Atlantic City, New Jersey on July 20th. They'll also be performing at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles in October. Details on Wilson's album, including a title and release date, haven't been announced as yet.
Brian Wilson, Al Jardine, and David Marks Tour Dates
July 20 - Atlantic City, New Jersey, at The Grand at The Golden Nugget
July 21 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at the Stage AE-Outdoor Stage
July 23 - Interlochen, Michigan, at the Kresge Auditorium
July 25 - Kettering, Ohio, at the Fraze Pavilion
July 26 - Highland Park, Illinois, at the Ravinia Festival
July 27 - Apple Valley Minnesota, at the Weesner Family Amphitheatre
Oct 20 - Los Angeles, California, at The Greek Theatre
Pat Benatar and Cheap Trick are teaming up for some shows this summer. The two will play their first of eight shows together tonight at the Thunder Valley Casino in Lincoln, California. They'll follow with four more stops throughout California before heading to Las Vegas and Tucson, Arizona late next week. Benatar and Cheap Trick will then go their separate ways, each playing more shows throughout the U.S. and Canad before meeting up again for one concert on the East Coast in August. They're set to appear together in Vienna, Virginia on August 20th. Each artist's complete touring schedule is posted on their websites -- BenatarGiraldo.com and CheapTrick.com.
Pat Benatar-Cheap Trick Tour Dates
August 20 - Vienna, Virginia, at The Filene Center at Wolf Trap
Chaka Khan may be feeling a little less than every woman these days. The R&B singer has been forced to cancel a number of dates after doctors ordered her to vocal rest. Her manager Tammy McCrary also said they were moving the release date of Chaka's new album "The iKhan Project Alive" to allow her voice to recover. McCrary also said they were looking forward to a "great project and a very robust concert and tour scheduled this fall."
Michael Jackson's former spokeswoman believes the pop star's teenage daughter is still grappling with the sudden loss of her father four years ago. Raymone Bain says Paris adored her father and that Michael was an excellent hands-on dad. She says Paris should find comfort in knowing that her father loved her very much and had a plan for her. Paris is getting medical attention after an apparent suicide attempt Wednesday. Reports have suggested that the teen felt like she was being bullied at school and was having trouble fitting in.
Paris is also receiving support from a variety of sources. Dr. Conrad Murray -- who's serving time for involuntary manslaughter stemming from Michael's death -- has left her a heartfelt telephone message, while goth rocker Marilyn Manson has said he'll put Paris on the guest list for any of his shows that she wants to attend. TMZ says Paris reportedly "threw a fit" hours before her suicide attempt when she was told she couldn't go to Manson's concert. Her brother is standing by her as well. Prince Michael Jackson was scheduled to appear on a highly rated German TV game show, but a rep for the station tells "People" that the pop superstar's oldest son has cancelled his trip in light of recent events.
Uriah Heep guitarist Mick Box admits the funeral for the band's late bassist was difficult for him. The rocker tells Britain's "Hull Daily Mail" he cried during the service for Trevor Bolder, explaining that he "very much respected Trevor as a bass player, a singer, a songwriter and as a friend." Box says Bolder was "a deep thinker, really quite spiritual," and "modest to the core." He adds that Trevor was "very quiet -- unless he had a few brandies inside him." Box was among those who took part in the ceremony, and performed with a local musician. Drummer Woody Woodmansey, who worked with Bolder in the early '70s in David Bowie's Spiders From Mars, says Trevor was "one of the few friends you might not see for a few years and yet meeting up with him again it was if you had only seen him yesterday." He adds that Bolder was "a world-class bass player," and that he's "honored to have known him as a friend."
Bolder died on May 21st, at the age of 62, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was remembered at a public service in his hometown of Hull this week, with 600 people packing St. Mary's Church in Beverley, Hull to honor him.
Archie, Betty, Veronica and Jughead are heading to the big screen. The high school teens of "Archie" comics fame will star in a new live-action movie to be produced by Warner Brothers. Archie Comics says the movie will feature "Archie" characters in a present-day version of the comic's fictional town of Riverdale. Jason Moore, who guided the 2012 musical comedy "Pitch Perfect," is on board to direct. It won't be the first time "Archie" has been adapted to screen. Archie and the gang have shown up in animated form on television but this will mark the first feature film to revolve around the characters in the comic book's 72-year history.
Jones admits the "sheer scale of it" makes composing an opera a daunting task, and he suspects he's "probably about to find out" what the specific challenges are to the project. John Paul adds that it's leaving him little time for anything else. He explains that right now he's really only able to play "little gigs" that don't require a lot of prep work.
Paul McCartney will be making a slight detour from his "Out There" tour next week. The former Beatle is heading to the small screen, and will pay a visit to Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" on Wednesday, June 12th. McCartney will give an interview and also perform during the special hour-long "super-sized" edition of the show, which will begin at 11:30 p.m. Eastern. Sir Paul is expected to play songs from his "Out There" sets as well as with material from his recently released "Wings Over America" reissue. This will be McCartney's second time on "The Colbert Report," but the first time he's performed on the show. He made his "Colbert Report" debut in 2009.
A haunted cabin is to thank for bringing together rocker John Mellencamp and author Stephen King for the musical "Ghost Brothers of Darkland County."
On Wednesday's 6/5/13 episode of CBS's "Late Show With David Letterman," Mellencamp explained that the musical stems from the legend of a gruesome murder at his lakeside cabin. While Mellencamp claims he doesn't actually believe in the haunting, he always enjoyed the story. As it turns out, John and Stephen share the same agent, who was able to hook them up to pen the musical. Mellencamp says the pair became very close during the 13 year process of finishing the project.
The soundtrack to "Ghost Brothers of Darkland County" is now in stores. Mellencamp and King joined T-Bone Burnett in assembling a star-studded cast for album. Among the artists featured are Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, Kris Kristofferson, Rosanne Cash and more. The "Ghost Brothers" is set to hit the road this fall, starting in Mellencamps' hometown of Bloomington, Indiana on October 10th.
Barry Manilow will be celebrating Independence Day next month in the nation's capital. He's set to headline the annual PBS special "A Capitol Fourth," airing live on July 4th. Organizers say Manilow is "back by popular demand," returning to the event after making his "Capitol Fourth" debut four years ago. The all-star gala will also feature appearaces from the cast of "Motown: The Musical," as well as the latest "American Idol" winner Candice Glover, former "Idol" winner Scotty McCreery, and pop-classical singer Jackie Evancho. "Smash" star Megan Hilty and Darren Criss from "Glee" will also perform. The night's soundtrack will also feature music from Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln." "Dancing With the Stars" host will oversee "A Capitol Fourth," which will air live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, July 4th, at 8:00 p.m. Eastern.
Alice Cooper is sharing his wisdom and experience in an effort to keep people playing guitar. The singer is the "rock therapist" for Fretlight Guitar, and is featured in a series of satirical spots for their "Quitters Anonymous" campaign. In his first video, which premiered this week on RollingStone.com, Cooper names Jeff Beck the best guitarist ever. He says the British star was a phenomenal player as a teenager, and over the years has only become better. Alice recalls seeing Beck back in the '60s to illustrate just how great Beck was back then. Cooper tells "Rolling Stone" he signed on with the company for a few reasons. He explains that Fretlight is willing to work with him to make sure the spots are not only funny but also capture his sense of humor. He also thinks the company has a good product. Fretlight's instrument helps people learn the guitar by lighting up when they hit each chord correctly. Cooper says he showed it to the guitarists in his band, and when they gave it "the cool thumb's up" he agreed to represent the company. Additional information is available at Fretlight.com and Quitters-Anonymous.com.
Cooper also admits he wishes he hadn't given up the guitar himself. He says he quit playing in his early 20s because he was "always totally surrounded" with "really accomplished guitarists," so there was "no reason" for him to play. Alice explains that he decided to focus on song lyrics and his character instead.
Neither Journey or Joe Walsh are adding a CMT Music Award to their collection of honors. The rockers were among this year's nominees. They both had bids for Collaborative Video of the Year -- Walsh with Brad Paisley for their performance of "Rocky Mountain Way" on "CMT Crossroads: Joe Walsh and Friends," and Journey with Rascal Flatts for the country trio's song "Changed" from their Super Bowl edition of "Crossroads." But the buckle trophy went to country stars Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, and Eric Church for their hit "The Only Way I Know." Journey and Rascal Flatts were also up for CMT Performance of the Year for their collaborative rendition of the Journey classic "Don't Stop Believin'," but they lost to Miranda Lambert's "Over You," which she sang at last December's "2012 CMT Artists of the Year" special. Lambert was one of the big winners at the fan-voted event, which took place in Nashville Wednesday night.
John Fogerty is seeing his best chart placement in nearly 30 years with his latest album. Billboard.com says "Wrote A Song For Everyone" is entering the Billboard 200 at number three with first-week sales of 51-thousand. It's the former Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman's highest chart debut, and his best chart appearance since 1985, when "Centerfield" reached the top of the chart. "Wrote A Song For Everyone" features collaborative remakes of songs from his extensive catalog. Bob Seger, Kid Rock, and Foo Fighters joined John on the project, while he also teamed up with a number of country stars including Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, and Alan Jackson. Fogerty also included two new tracks on the disc.
A former drummer for Jefferson Airplane is dead. Joey Covington was killed Tuesday 6/4/13 in a single-vehicle crash in Palm Springs, California. Officials say the rocker was traveling on South Belardo Road when his car left the roadway and slammed into a retaining wall. He died at the scene. Covington, who also performed with the legendary blues-rock band Hot Tuna, was 67.
Robert Plant's career has run more than 45 years, but he's still having fun making music. The singer tells "L.A. Weekly" he's enjoyed exploring what he can do as his voice changes with age. Plant says he likes the tone of his voice these days, explaining that he's "not a castrato anymore," but has learned to take his voice "down into that pocket and have it sound good." He adds that he's really liked taking his music into different directions. Robert says he's looked to other artists -- including his Led Zeppelin bandmate John Paul Jones -- as a role model of sorts. He explains that Jones can "play in Them Crooked Vultures and play mandolin with Seasick Steve," and people are also "taking him seriously as a writer in the classical mode" as he works on an opera. Plant adds that he's "learned that it's good to keep moving and keep smiling!"
Plant will be bringing his latest incarnation to the U.S. stage later this month. He'll launch a North American tour with the Sensational Space Shifters" in Dallas on June 20th.
A CD edition of John Mellencamp and Stephen King's musical "Ghost Brothers of Darkland County" is now in stores. T Bone Burnett, who served as musical director for "Ghost Brothers," joined Mellencamp and King in assembling an all-star cast for the album, which features songs from the musical along with key sections of dialog. Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, Kris Kristofferson, Rosanne Cash, Matthew McConaughey and Meg Ryan are some of the stars featured on the project. "Ghost Brothers" is available as a single disc as well as a deluxe two-disc set, featuring a DVD with a "Making of Ghost Brothers" mini-documentary; interviews with Mellencamp, King, and Burnett; and with other bonuses.
Playbill.com says the road version of the show will launch this fall, featuring a less elaborate set-up than the original stage production. Shows will have a minimal set, and performers will not be in costume. Artistic director Susan Booth describes the touring production as "a gothic story-driven rock concert." The tour will open in Mellencamp's hometown of Bloomington, Indiana on October 10th -- three days after the rocker's 62nd birthday.
"Ghost Brothers of Darkland County" Tour Dates
October 10 - Bloomington, IN (Indiana University Auditorium)
October 11 - Louisville, KY (Whitney Hall)
October 12 - Knoxville, KY (Knoxville Civic Auditorium)
October 13 - Asheville, NC (Thomas Wolfe Auditorium)
October 16 - Nashville, TN (Ryman Auditorium)
October 17 - Evansville, IN (Aiken Theatre at The Centre)
October 18 - Indianapolis, IN (Clowes Memorial Hall)
October 19 - Akron, OH (Akron Civic Theatre)
October 22 - Columbus, OH (Palace Theatre)
October 24 - Ft. Wayne, IN (Embassy Theatre)
October 25 - Madison, WI (Overture Hall)
October 26 - Rockford, IL (Coronado Performing Arts Center)
October 27 - Appleton, WI (Fox Cities Performing Arts Center)
October 29 - Milwaukee, WI (Riverside Theatre)
October 31 - Minneapolis, MN (State Theatre)
November 1 - Sioux City, IA (Orpheum Theatre)
November 2 - Ames, IA (Stephens Auditorium)
November 3 - Davenport, IA (Adler Theatre)
November 5 - South Bend, IN (Morris Performing Arts Center)
November 6 - Grand Rapids, MI (DeVos Performance Hall)
It's been a decade since Sting has had new music in stores. But "The New York Times" says the hiatus will end this fall with the arrival of "The Last Ship." The studio project features songs the former Police frontman wrote for his proposed Broadway musical, and some tracks are included in the show. The album shares its name with the musical, which is based on Sting's 1991 album "The Soul Cages." The theatrical production was inspired by the rocker's upbringing in Newcastle, England, a once thriving shipbuilding center that went into decline in the 1970s. The musical tells the story of a shipbuliding family that is suddenly facing uncertain times when the shipyard closes. The "The Last Ship" CD is the first collection of new, original material from Sting since 2003's "Sacred Love." The album is slated to be released on September 24th.
Brian May is using his musical talents to help raise awareness in the fight to support the badger. The Queen guitarist co-wrote and performs on The Artful Badger campaign's new single, "Badger Swagger."
Slash also plays guitar on the track, which features vocals from former Massive Attack member Shara Nelson. Rising British rap star Sonny Green wrote the verses and takes the lead on the song, and broadcasting legend Sir David Attenborough also lends his voice to the song. The "Badger Swagger" video is up for viewing at getoffmybadger.com, while May has the lyrics posted on his website. Both the single and the video are for sale from iTunes, with profits from the track going to the UK campaign to protect the badger.
Booker T. Jones is giving fans a preview of his upcoming album. He's debuting the song "Watch You Sleeping" on Billboard.com.
The song features guest vocals from Kori Withers -- the daughter of soul legend Bill Withers. Booker T. says he's pleased with the collaboration. He praises Kori as a "very expressive" and "beautiful singer." "Watch You Sleeping" is from Booker T.'s new studio effort, "Sound the Alarm," which will hit stores on June 25th.
Lou Gramm says he's really looking forward to playing once again with his former Foreigner bandmate. Gramm and guiarist Mick Jones are among this year's inductees into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. They'll be performing at the event, which will mark the first time they've shared the stage in more than a decade. Gramm admits that it had been a while since he spoke to Jones when they got the nod for the honor. But he tells UltimateClassicRock.com he called Mick to congratulate him, which "kind of broke the ice." Lou says he thinks Mick was initially "taken aback a little bit," but the conversation quickly warmed up. He recalls that they asked each other about their families, and then started discussing performing together at the induction ceremony. Gramm adds that he thinks the upcoming event is "going to be a lot of fun."
Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Joe Perry and singer-songwriter J.D. Souther are also among the new inductees into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, which celebrates composers and lyricists. The induction ceremony will take place in New York on June 13th.
A couple of country's leading ladies are marveling at their chance to perform with one of the biggest rock bands of all time. Carrie Underwood joined the Rolling Stones for "It's Only Rock 'n Roll" at the group's show in Toronto late last month. She says it was an incredible experience. Taylor Swift was also in awe when she performed "As Tears Go By" with the Stones Monday night 6/3/13 in Chicago. She admits it was something she never imagined she'd ever get the opportunity to do. Swift adds that she considers the Stones a concert role model. She explains that the group has an incredibly loyal fan base that has followed them for decades because band members "give everything they have for every single performance." Taylor says the Stones' dedication to their audience has influenced her in her career.
MTV is bringing music to the masses online. The Viacom-owned cable network has announced plans to launch a 24-hour virtual concert, starting at 7:00 pm Eastern on June 19th. The online fest will feature performances by more than 50 artists representing rock, pop, R&B, folk and indie rock. In conjunction with the fan-picked O Music Awards the "Live Music Day Festival," is being billed as the biggest online-only event of its kind. It will be streamed live across computers, tablets and smartphones from Viacom's offices in New York, Nashville and Los Angeles.
One of the founders of Seattle's iconic Sub Pop Records has revealed that he has Parkinson's. Jonathan Poneman tells the "Seattle Times" that he was diagnosed with the degenerative nervous system disease back in 2010, but he's found a way to stay positive. The 53-year-old says he's actually "grateful" to the disease, explaining that his "love of life and its precious elements became more vivid at the thought of seeing them fade away." He adds that he's also found ways to keep working at Sub Pop, including replacing his desk chair with a stationary bike that helps diminish his symptoms.
Poneman is currently keeping busy with preparations for next month's Sub Pop festival, which marks the label's 25th anniversary. The free event is scheduled to take place on July 13th in Seattle.
Bob Dylan just might receive a special award from France. His nomination for the Legion of Honor has been approved. The grand chancellor of the Legion of Honor council said in a letter to the "Le Monde" newspaper that Dylan is an "exceptional artist" who is internationally known as a "tremendous singer and great poet." Another French newspaper reported last month that the famed singer-songwriter had been rejected as a possible recipient over his views on the Vietnam War and his suspected use of marijuana. The Legion of Honor is France's most prestigious award, which recognizes excellence from both military members and civilians as well as foreigners who have served France or upheld French ideals. Paul McCartney received the award last year.
Sammy Hagar is proving you actually can go home again. The Red Rocker was the guest of honor over the weekend at Fontana, California's Fontana Days. The singer, who graduated from Fontana High School in 1965, served as the grand marshal for community's centennial parade on Saturday 6/1/13. He also received a number of gifts, including his own street -- in the form of a street sign designating "Hagar Way." Sammy said he was thrilled to help his hometown celebrate its 100th birthday. When asked what it was like to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, Hagar told the "Fontana Herald News" it wasn't "as exciting" as leading the Fontana Days 100th anniversary parade.
Steven Tyler says he's still able to find ways to keep his Bad Boy title. The Aerosmith frontman explained on Monday's "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" that one such opportunity presented itself during the band's recent tour stop in Singapore. But Tyler says his road life really has calmed down. He and his bandmates used to be known for their hard partying, but now he says they spend their off-stage time seeing the sites. For example, Tyler shared pictures of this recent trip through Thailand, which included visits with an 80-year-old elephant and a group of endangered tigers raised by local monks.
Aerosmith has a couple of U.S. gigs lined up for the summer, but fans can also hear Tyler in movie theaters across the country. He plays a glowworm named Nim Galuu in the new animated film "Epic," which is out now.
Yes is making plans for their own festival. The prog-rock pioneers are slated to stage the Yestival later this summer. In a website post the group says fans will be treated to "a day-into-night musical adventure in full quadraphonic sound" at the upcoming event, which is set for the Susquehanna Bank Center in Camden, New Jersey on August 3rd. Yes bassist Chris Squire says the band has wanted to stage their own festival for a while. He adds that they're thrilled to host the event in a community near Philadelphia, because the city "has been a Yes stronghold since the '70s."
As they've done throughout their 2013 tour, Yes will play a headlining set at the event that will include complete performances of 1971's "The Yes Album" and 1972's "Close to the Edge." The lineup also features Carl Palmer's ELP Legacy, Renaissance featuring Anne Haslam, and the acclaimed Genesis tribute group The Musical Box. Tickets for Yestival go on sale this Friday at 10:00 a.m. Eastern.
Ringo Starr is sharing more memories of The Beatles along with other moments of his life in a new book. "Photograph" features numerous snapshots which have never before been published, taken by the rock legend and others close to him over the course of his life. Ringo tells "People" some of the pictures he just recently discovered while going through his mother's belongings after her death. He adds that while countless photographs were taken of The Beatles, the pictures in his book are "shots that no one else could have."
"Photograph" will be available as an ebook exclusively through iTunes on June 12th, coinciding with the opening of the exhibit "Ringo: Peace & Love" at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. A physical, hand-bound edition of "Photograph" will arrive -- autographed by Ringo -- in a limited release in December.
Billy Idol has two projects in the works -- an album and an autobiography. The rocker tells Billboard.com he's currently "three-quarters of the way through" his book, and is currently in the editing process. He says the memoir is "almost a massive joke," because he doesn't "remember anything!" But Billy explains that he's "tried to give an overview" of his career with the "bits" he does remember, and he shares his "love of music," his "personal way through life," and "some thoughts" on what he's done -- both right and wrong -- over the years. Idol adds that it includes some dirt. While he admit it's not a tell-all, he "didn't try to think about was it sensational, was it this or was it that" as he put his stories down in writing. The singer explains that he just tried to give honest recollections about how he felt about his experiences.
Meanwhile, Idol says he's been "gradually putting new songs together" for his album, and will concentrate on that project this fall. The new disc will be his first release in several years. His last album was the Christmas disc "Happy Holidays," while his last collection of new material was 2005's "Devil's Playground." Idol expects to have his book and his album in stores next year.
Cyndi Lauper is back in the spotlight thanks to her contribution to the Tony-nominated "Kinky Boots," and her new project's cast is remembering one of her classics. According to "People," the "Kinky Boots" ensemble put together a video in honor of their score writer, singing "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," as the song turns 30 years old this year. After getting permission to use the song from her label Sony, the cast enlisted some of the singer's famous friends to participate as well. They presented the video to Cyndi on Sunday night before posting it to YouTube. It features the cast, Katie Couric, Rosie O'Donnell, Kelly Ripa, Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb and Whoopi Goldberg - all playfully singing along to the 1983 hit.
Lauper tells "People" that the video is "the sweetest thing" she's ever seen and that she was moved to tears to see how many ladies took part in the tribute.
A member of Charlie Daniels' band is demonstrating that she's more than just a pretty voice. Carolyn Corlew is the latest Ms. Tennessee Senior America. She began her pageant journey last year, taking the Ms. Senior Wilson County title at the Wilson County Fair last August. Carolyn took the state crown at an event a few weeks ago. She's now headed to the finale. Corlew will be representing Tennessee in the national Ms. Senior America Pageant, which will take place in Atlantic City, New Jersey from October 20th through the 25th.
The Ms. Senior America Pageant is open to women who are at the "age of elegance," which is 60 and older. According to the Senior America Mission Statement, the event is "a search for the gracious lady who best exemplifies the dignity, maturity and inner beauty of all senior Americans."
The late Uriah Heep bassist Trevor Bolder was remembered at a memorial service Monday 6/3/13. Blabbermouth.net says friends and fans of the rocker gathered to attend the public ceremony, which took place in England. The service was at St. Mary's Church in Beverley, Hull. Bolder died on May 21st after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 62. Fans wanting to pass along messages of condolences to Trevor's family can send them to the following UK address: Trevor Bolder Memoriam, PO Box 6249, Liscombe Park, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU70WS.
Gene Simmons says he knows KISS won't continue on indefinitely. The blood-spitting bassist tells Sweden's Expressen TV that the time will come when the band has run its course and they're ready retire -- eventually. Simmons says he believes KISS has at least a few more years left in them, but he's not sure the group will still be around a decade from now. He's predicting the end will come within the next "five to ten years."
KISS just launched the European leg of their 2013 Monster Tour in Stockholm Saturday night 6/1/13. With the show the band introduced their new stage set featuring a giant, fire-throwing spider that crawls into the crowd. Simmons credits frontman Paul Stanley with coming up with the spider idea, adding that all of KISS' "great ideas" have come from band members, not from outside designers. KISS will follow their European trek with a series of Canadian dates. They have one U.S. show set for July -- Rock Fest in Cadott, Wisconsin on July 20th -- along with several U.S. dates scheduled in August.
Some musicians who are just getting started are hearing some words of wisdom from Billy Joel. The rocker made a surprise appearance at last Thursday's 5/30/13 graduation ceremony at the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Queens, New York. Joel took part in a Q-and-A session with the high school students, fielding more than two dozen questions. He advised them to "get a lawyer" once they started making money, and to then "get another lawyer" to watch the first one. The singer added that while artists "are sensitive," he learned the hard way that "if you don't think like a business person, other people will take advantage of you." Joel also suggested those striving for a music career "do as much performance work as you can," because even experience in "crappy little clubs" will make them better.
Joel shared some memories as well. He called it "wild" and "insane" to hear himself on the radio for the first time" and that he "hated making videos." Billy added that he "didn't set out to be a star" when he launched his career, and his "biggest thrill" in life was being able to pay the bills by playing music. And while Joel has reportedly been contemplating retiring from performing, he's not ready to end his career completely. He said he's "not done yet," but wants to "create a lot more music." Joel also performed for the students, singing "Piano Man," "Vienna," and other songs.
The United Arab Emirates could be the site of a new Jackson-family themed resort, according to Jermaine Jackson. The King of Pop's elder brother is telling "The National" that the family has plans to build a five-star resort in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi. Jermaine says that talks with potential investors are underway, and though the project is in its early stages, it is "progressing well." He says that the resort will dedicated to the family's musical history and will be called Jermajesty, after his 12-year-old son. Jermaine calls the hotel a way to preserve "the whole family's history and legacy," adding that it will be decorated and filled with Jackson memorabilia from over the years.
The 58-year-old says that one of the reasons Abu Dhabi was selected as the location is because of the warm welcome he and his brothers received when stopping there on tour last November. Jermaine converted to Islam back in 1989 and his current wife Halima Rashid is originally from Afghanistan.
The Dells' lead singer has died. Marvin Junior's son, Marvin, tells "The New York Times" his father passed away at his home in Harvey, Illinois on Wednesday, after battling kidney and heart problems. Junior was 77. The Dells were among the pioneering R&B/do-wop groups of the 1950s. Junior co-founded the group, which was initially called the El-Rays, in 1952. He wrote and sang lead on The Dells' first hit single, 1956's "Oh What A Nite," while a re-recorded reissue of the song topped the chart in 1969. And The Dells remained together for decades. Marvin says group members "grew up together" and "never let the industry separate them." The Dells maintained much of their original lineup throughout their career. Junior was their lead baritone and lead singer for 60 years. The group -- which still featured founding members Verne Allison, Mickey McGill, and Chuck Barksdale -- retired last year due to Junior and Barksdale's failing health.
The Dells' other hits include their first chart-topper, 1968's "Stay in My Corner," as well as the top ten singles "Always Together," the "I Can Sing a Rainbow"/"Love is Blue" medley, "Open Up My Heart," "Nadine," and others. The Dells inspired Robert Townsend's 1991 film "The Five Heartbeats," and band members served as consultants on the movie. In 2004 The Dells were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.
Natalie Cole is among the celebrities who turned out to honor famed record producer David Foster at his Hollywood Walk of Fame star unveiling on Friday 5/31/13. At the event, the singer said Foster was more than deserving of the long overdue honor. Cole is currently working with Foster via Verve Records. He signed her to the company after becoming the label's chairman two years ago. Verve will release the singer's first Spanish album, "Natalie Cole En Español" on June 25th. Foster resume includes associations a lengthy and diverse list of stars. In addition to Cole he's worked with a variety of artists ranging from Diana Ross to Chicago to The Scorpions.
Boston kicked off the benefit with a display of patriotism, playing an instrumental version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" before launching into a set of their hits. A host of other artists -- many of whom have ties to the Boston area -- also lent their talents to the event. J. Geils Band, James Taylor, Dropkick Murphys, and New Kids On The Block were among those who displayed their hometown pride, while Jimmy Buffett, Carole King, Jason Aldean, and others demonstrated their solidarity with Boston as they entertained the crowd and raised money for the cause. Funds generated by Boston Strong are going to the One Fund Boston.
James Taylor says he's glad to be helping his hometown heal from April's Boston Marathon bombing. The singer-songwriter was born in Boston, and still feels strong ties to the community. He admits he's had a hard time comprehending the attack, because the city he knows is such an unlikely place to foster such hatred.
Taylor was among the stars who took part in Thursday's Boston Strong benefit, which he says is playing a role in the healing process. He explains that there's "no way" to make the bombing "not have happened," and the show provided an opportunity for people to "pull together," "show their concern," and "try to feel better about the city again." Taylor was one of many stars to take part in Boston Strong. He performed with Carole King at the event, which also featured such stars as Aerosmith, J. Geils Band, Jimmy Buffett, and Boston. Money raised through the show is going to the One Fund Boston.
Bon Jovi is making plans for another run through North America. The band has announced a dozen fall dates across the U.S. and Canada, which begin and end north of the border. The group will kick off the fall leg of their "Because We Can" tour in Vancouver, British Columbia on October 2nd, and wrap up the trek in Montreal on November 8th. Bon Jovi has been touring in support of their latest album, "What About Now?," which arrived in stores earlier this year. The group is currently on the European leg of their tour. They also have a handful of U.S. stadium dates scheduled for the summer.
Bon Jovi doesn't say if Richie Sambora will be back in the fold for their newly announced shows. The guitarist dropped off the trek in April. The band hasn't explained his absence beyond saying it's due to "personal issues." Guitarist Phil "Phil X" Xenidis has been filling in for Sambora.
Bon Jovi Fall North American Tour Dates
October 2 - Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, at the Rogers Arena
October 5 - Tacoma, Washington, at the Tacoma Dome
October 6 - Spokane, Washington, at the Spokane Arena
October 8 - Fresno, California, at the Save Mart Center
October 9 - Anaheim, California, at the Honda Center
October 11 - Los Angeles, California, at the STAPLES Center
October 12 - Las Vegas, Nevada, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena
October 15 - San Antonio, Texas, at the AT&T Center
October 16 - Dallas, Texas, at the American Airlines Center
October 25 - Uncasville, Connecticut, at the Mohegan Sun Arena
November 1 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada, at the Air Canada Centre
November 8 - Montreal, Quebec, Canada, at the Bell Centre
Alice Cooper is back on the road. He's teaming up with fellow shock-rocker Marilyn Manson for the highly anticipated "Masters of Madness" tour, which gets under way this weekend. They'll kick off their co-headlining tour with a show in Albuquerque, New Mexico on Saturday. The "Masters of Madness" outing, which is scheduled to last through the end of June, marks the first time Alice and Marilyn have hit the road together. But Cooper says they make a great double bill, and both stars are expected to make appearances in the other's set.
"Masters of Madness" tour dates:
6/20 -- Gilford, NH -- Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion
6/21 -- Uncasville, CT -- Mohegan Sun
6/23 -- Pittsburgh, PA -- Stage AE
6/25 -- St. Charles, MO -- Family Arena
6/28 -- Rockford, IL -- BMO Harris Bank Center
Bon Jovi wants fans in recession-hit Spain to have a nice day. The New Jersey rockers are waiving their performance fee for their June 27th concert in Madrid to make tickets more affordable for cash-strapped fans. Bon Jovi slashed ticket prices to fall between the U.S. equivalent of 23 and 50 dollars to cover costs related to the venue, but the band won't receive a single cent for their performance. Frontman Jon Bon Jovi told "El Mundo" newspaper Madrid was not initially on the band's tour itinerary because organizers didn't think they could fill seats in the midst of Spain's hard economic times. But Bon Jovi says they didn't want to let down fans that have supported them in a country he loves. Tickets for the almost-"free" Bon Jovi concert are sold out.
A change of scenery is in the cards for the Red Hot Chili Peppers this fall. Drummer Chad Smith tells "Billboard" the band intends to make the switch from the road to the studio in September. He says they've had "little ideas percolating" throughout their extensive tour behind 2011's "I'm With You," but now they're "looking at the fall" to begin the "real writing process" for their next album. In the meantime, Smith and the rest of the Peppers still have a few gigs on the books this summer. They're set to play Metallica's Orion Music + More and the Firefly festival next month, as well as the Outside Lands fest in August.
Madonna has unloaded one of her New York City apartments. According to the "Wall Street Journal," the star's six-thousand-square-foot Central Park West co-op has sold for a little under 20-million dollars. Brokers tell the paper the buyer was Wall Street hedge fund manager Deepak Narula. The Queen of Pop originally listed the property last November for an asking price of 23-point-five million. The apartment has 15 rooms, park views and sprawls over two floors of the building. The sale doesn't mean Madonna has plans to leave New York as her base. She still has a place in the city for herself and her four children on the Upper East Side.
Natalie Cole will be on hand to help honor famed record producer David Foster. The man who has worked with numerous stars including Diana Ross; Boz Scaggs; Earth, Wind, and Fire; Chicago, and The Scorpions, is getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The unveiling ceremony is set to take place in front of the Capitol Records Building on Vine Street this morning at 11:30 a.m. local time. The event will also be carried online. Fans who can't attend the ceremony in person will be able to watch the event live at walkoffame.com.
Cole is crediting her upcoming album to Foster. She's currently working on her first Spanish disc, which she says she's wanted to make for the past decade. Cole recently told Billboard.com that when she signed on with Foster at Verve Records, he was finally able to make things happen with the project, which will be in stores next month.
Olivia Newton John is mourning the loss of her sister. The singer, who put her planned Las Vegas residency on hold last month to support her sister's battle with brain cancer, announced on her Facebook page that Rona Newton-John passed away May 24th in Los Angeles. She was 70. Newton-John says Rona died of a "very aggressive brain tumor and mercifully suffered no pain." She says she was surrounded by her four children and friends at the time of her passing, adding, "I will miss her forever - my beautiful, smart, talented, funny, brave sister Rona." Olivia is asking that donations be made to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre in lieu of flowers.
An actress in the 1960s and 1970s, Rona Newton-John was married to Olivia's "Grease" co-star Jeff Conaway from 1980 to 1985. Conaway passed away in 2011.
The Velvet Underground and The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts have resolved their fruit dispute. HollywoodReporter.com says a Warhol Foundation lawyer notified the judge Tuesday that the two sides have reached an agreement, so the band's trademark dispute case has been dismissed. The rockers were suing over the use of the banana image featured on the cover of their 1967 debut "The Velvet Underground & Nico." Warhol created the design and was paid for it, but he never got a copyright. The group claimed that over the years they have become linked with the iconic image. They argued that since the banana is now an immediately recognizable symbol of The Velvet Underground, the Foundation's use of it on iPad cases, shoulder bags, and other merchandise would mislead the public into believing the band has endorsed the products. The terms of the settlement weren't revealed.
Sting is back on the road. On his "Back To Bass" tour Sting has been reaching back in his catalog to treat audiences to performances of some of his biggest hits spanning his solo career. He's been performing "Back To Bass" shows throughout the past 20 months. He initially launched the tour back in the fall of 2011 to commemorate his 25th anniversary as a solo artist and his 60th birthday.
Sting North American Tour Dates
June 20 - Bangor, Maine, at the Waterfront Pavilion
June 21 - Boston, Massachusetts, at the Bank of America Pavilion
June 22 - Uncasville, Connecticut, at the Mohegan Sun
June 24 - Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada, at the Credit Union Place
June 26 - St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, at the Mile One Centre
The Comets have lost a founding member. "The New York Times" says Marshall Lytle, the bassist for Bill Haley and His Comets, died over the weekend of 5/23/13. His partner Cathy Smith says the pioneering rocker was battling lung cancer, and passed away at his New Port Richey, Florida home on Saturday. Lytle was 79. Marshall was still a teenager when Bill Haley tapped him to be the bassist in his band -- then known as the Saddlemen -- back in 1950. Lytle was a guitarist -- not a bassist -- but that didn't seem to matter to Haley, who covered the basics in a 30-minute bass lesson. Two years later the group changed their name to Bill Haley and His Comets, who came to fame as one of rock's originators with such hits as "Rock Around the Clock" and "Shake, Rattle, and Roll." Lytle left the Comets along with two other members of the band to for The Jodimars. He left the music business in 1960, but returned to revive the Comets in 1987.
Brad Paisley says he's a longtime John Fogerty fan, so getting the chance to record with the former Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman was a real treat for him. The country star adds that he was pleasantly surprised to learn the admiration is mutual. But Brad admits it was a little strange to see just how much of an influence he's had on a musician he holds in such high esteem. Paisley also says that seeing Fogerty imitate his equipment set-up was probably the biggest compliment he's ever received as a guitarist. He adds that he really likes Fogerty on a personal level. Brad explains that in addition to being "a tremendous guitar player," the veteran rocker is "a really great, great, great, great, man, and a really fun person to be around." Brad teamed up with John on a remake of the song "Hot Rod Heart" for Fogerty's new album, "Wrote A Song For Everyone," which is in stores now.
Many Americans will be hitting the road this summer, and the overwhelming majority will be taking some tunes with them. Half of the respondents taking part in a new Expedia.com poll say they'll be driving at least 200 miles away from home over the next few months, and 96-percent will be traveling to a soundtrack. Classic rock is the most popular choice for road music, with 32-percent planning to rock out as they roll down the highway. By comparison, 15-percent will have country or pop music blaring out of their car speakers, while 12-percent will mark down the miles to R&B or hip-hop. Four-percent will be listening to dance or techno music, and another four-percent will have some classical jazz as a traveling companion. Fourteen-percent won't commit to a genre.
John Fogerty admits he's amazed to still have such an active career, 45 years after the release of the first Creedence Clearwater Revival record. The veteran rocker celebrated his 68th birthday in Los Angeles Tuesday 5/28/13 night playing a special album release concert for his new disc, "Wrote A Song For Everyone." He admits if he'd been told back in 1968 that he'd still be performing in 2013 -- when he was 68 -- he wouldn't have believed it. But he's glad it's happening. Fogerty tells "USA Today" he doesn't "feel like retiring." He adds that he'd love to do more with all the artists that contributed to "Wrote A Song For Everyone."
John explains that the project was "a labor of love." He says he had "a ball" working with those other artists and leaving his "comfort zone." Fogerty teamed up with a variety of stars for his album. Bob Seger, Kid Rock, Miranda Lambert, and Keith Urban were among his collaborators on the album, which features remakes of his older songs along wtih two new tracks.
A new Rolling Stones exhibit is opening in the UK. "The Stones and their Scene" features the work of photographer Eric Swayne, who was part of the group's inner circle in the 1960s. The exhibit includes pictures of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and the rest of the band as the Stones were rising stars, as well as the group's associates including Anita Pallenberg, Chrissie Shrimpton, and Pattie Boyd -- who at the time was Swayne's girlfriend. A number of rare and previously unpublished photos will be part of the display. Many of the pictures were only recently discovered by Eric's son Tom, who found them as he was going through his father's things after he died. "The Stones and Their Scene" will begin a six-and-a-half-week run at at the Proud Galleries in London on June 13th.
A former Beatle is receiving a new honor in the UK. NME.com says the George Harrison Memorial Garden is now open at the Bhaktivedanta [[Bahk-TEH-vah-dahn-tah]] Manor in Hertfordshire, just north of London. The property had belonged to the rock legend, who donated it to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness back in 1973. Harrison's widow Olivia says she's pleased with the organization's floral tribute to her famous husband. She adds that the garden is "a manifestation in the material world of which he would be very proud."
This isn't the first time Harrison has been recognized with a garden. George was also honored with "Life To Life," a special memorial garden created for the 2008 Chelsea Flower Show in Britain. Olivia teamed up with garden designer Yvonne Innes, the wife of musician Neil Innes, on that project -- a symbolic biography featuring various plants to represent Harrison's childhood, Beatlemania, and his post-Beatles spirituality.
From one music legend to another. Paul McCartney hopes Elvis Presley is still playing music inside the pearly gates of heaven. The Beatles great stopped by Elvis' grave at Graceland Sunday 5/27/13, leaving a guitar pick behind "so Elvis can play in heaven," according to the picture caption on McCartney's Twitter account. McCartney was in Memphis to perform a show on the North American leg of his Out There tour, which kicked off in Orlando, Florida on May 18th.
Billy Joel says he holds no resentment toward Elton John. While Elton has made some harsh statements to the media about Joel's work habits and sobriety, Billy tells "The New York Times" he believes Elton's "heart is in the right place." He explains that the British rocker "tends to shoot off his mouth," and doesn't think there's anything malicious in his words. Joel adds that Elton might simply be trying to get him "mad," and "motivate" him to start writing pop songs again. But he admits Elton probably was angry with him over a proposed tour that never happened. Joel explains that there was "a misunderstanding," and he thinks Elton was told he'd committed to the shows when that actually wasn't the case.
And Billy has let Elton's criticism of his time in rehab simply roll off his back. He calls John "a very friendly, charming man" and "a nice fun guy." But he says Elton "doesn't really know that much" about him personally, and Elton "doesn't know anything" about his private life, so he "let a lot of that slide." He adds that he'd even "work with him again."
Track Listing For John Fogerty's "Wrote a Song for Everyone"
1. Fortunate Son (with Foo Fighters)
2. Almost Saturday Night (with Keith Urban)
3. Lodi (with Shane Fogerty and Tyler Fogerty)
4. Mystic Highway (John Fogerty solo)
5. Wrote a Song for Everyone (with Miranda Lambert feat. Tom Morello)
6. Bad Moon Rising (with Zac Brown Band)
7. Long As I Can See the Light (with My Morning Jacket)
8. Born on the Bayou (with Kid Rock)
9. Train of Fools (John Fogerty solo)
10. Someday Never Comes (with Dawes)
11. Who'll Stop the Rain (with Bob Seger)
12. Hot Rod Heart (with Brad Paisley)
13. Have You Ever Seen the Rain (with Alan Jackson)
14. Proud Mary (with Jennifer Hudson feat. Allen Toussaint and the Rebirth Brass Band)
Peter Frampton says he's really looking forward to his "Guitar Circus" tour. The rocker tells "USA Today" his pop stardom of the 1970s was "sort of a sideline" that he "got hoodwinked by for a few years there." He says with this trek he's "basically reminding people that first and foremost" he's "a guitar player." Frampton adds that he's "so honored" that all his heroes "want to come sit in," and as the he gets ready to launch the tour "the excitement is higher" than he "thought it could be." The "Guitar Circus" tour will feature Frampton performing with a variety of "special guests." Toto's Steve Lukather, Living Colour's Vernon Reid, former Eagle Don Felder, The Byrds' Roger McGuinn, and UFO's Vinnie Moore are some of the stars who'll be featured at select stops throughout the trek.
Peter Frampton Tour Dates
June 19 - Indianapolis, Indiana, at The Lawn at White River State Park - with Steve Cropper
June 20 - Columbus, Ohio, at The LC Pavilion Outdoor Amphitheater - with Steve Cropper
June 22 - Cleveland, Ohio, at Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica - with Roger McGuinn
June 23 - Huntington, New York, at The Paramount - with Living Colour's Vernon Reid
June 24 - Lancaster, Pennsylvania, at the American Music Theater - with Roger McGuinn
June 27 - New York, New York, at the Beacon Theater - with Roger McGuinn and Don Felder
June 28 - Rochester, New York, at Kodak Hall at the Eastman Theater - with Don Felder
June 30 - Webster, Massachusetts, at Indian Ranch - with Don Felder and Sonny Landreth
July 10 - Glen Allen, Virginia, at Innsbrook Pavilion
July 13 - Durant, Oklahoma, at the Choctaw Event Center - with Steve Lukather
July 14 - San Antonio, Texas, at the Majestic Theater - with Steve Lukather
July 16 - Corpus Christi, Texas, at the Selena Auditorium - with Steve Lukather
July 20 - Dubuque, Iowa, at Diamond Jo Casino - with Steve Lukather
July 21 - Minneapolis, Minnesota, at the State Theater - with Steve Lukather
July 23 - Beaver Creek, Colorado, at the Vilar Performing Arts Center - with Steve Lukather
July 26 - Airway Heights, Washington, at the Northern Quest Casino
July 27 - Manson, Washington, at the Deepwater Amphitheater at Mill Bay Casino
July 28 - Tulalip, Washington, at the Tulalip Resort Casino
August 5 - Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, at the Bethlehem Musikfest - with UFO's Vinnie Moore
August 7 - Simsbury, Connecticut, at the Performing Arts Center
August 8 - Baltimore, Maryland, at Pier Six Pavilion
August 10 - Atlantic City, New Jersey, at Trump Taj Mahal
August 11 - Vienna, Virginia, at The Wolftrap Filene Center
August 13 - Alpharetta, Georgia, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - with Los Lobos' David Hidalgo
August 14 - Cincinnati, Ohio, at PNC Pavilion - with Los Lobos' David Hidalgo
August 16 - Aurora, Illinois, at RiverEdge Park
August 17 - Council Bluffs, Iowa, at the Stir Cover
August 18 - Kansas City, Missouri, at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts - with Davy Knowles
August 20 - Morrison, Colorado, at Red Rocks - with Los Lobos' David Hidalgo
August 23 - Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Las Vegas Hotel & Casino - with Stone Temple Pilots' Dean DeLeo
August 24 - Los Angeles, California, at The Greek Theater - with Stone Temple Pilots' Dean DeLeo
August 25 - San Diego, California, at the Civic Theater - with Stone Temple Pilots' Dean DeLeo
August 28 - Saratoga, California, at The Saratoga Winery - with Stone Temple Pilots' Dean DeLeo
August 30 - Lincoln, California, at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort - with Richard Thompson
August 31 - Paso Robles, California, at the Vina Robles Amphitheater - with Richard Thompson
Rush's Alex Lifeson admits that he and his bandmates are starting to feel their age. He tells MetalExpressRadio.com the group no longer performs on consecutive nights, and "those off days are truly recovery days." The guitarist explains that he, Geddy Lee, and Neil Peart were never "crazy wild party guys" on the road, but they're now "much more conservative" on their days off than were earlier in their career. Lifeson says Lee will sleep in and not talk much before a show to rest his voice. He adds that prior to a concert the three of them will have a "pretty subdued" dinner together. Alex says he and Lee also work out while on tour, because they know they have to do things to keep their energy level up so they can turn out three-hour shows. The rocker explains that with their 60th birthdays rapidly approaching, they know they have to take care of themselves. Lee will hit the big six-oh on July 29th, and Lifeson will do so a month later. Peart turned 60 last September.
Natalie Cole is once again singing with her famous father. The R&B singer is also following in the late Nat "King" Cole's footsteps with her upcoming album, "Natalie Cole En Español." But Natalie tells Billboard.com the project isn't a tribute to her dad. She says she feels it's more of a tribute to Latin music because of him, explaining that hearing Nat sing in Spanish was "a revelation." Cole adds that it's a project she's wanted to do for years. She says she first pitched it to Capitol Records a decade ago but "the timing wasn't right," and then brought it to Emilio Estefan with no luck. She explains that finally, after signing on with Verve, label Chairman David Foster was able to make things happen.
Cole worked on the album with producer Rudy Perez. She says the Latin hitmaker encouraged her to be herself, telling her to include her "R&B inflections" and not "lose Natalie." "Natalie Cole En Español," featuring the Nat "King" Cole duet "Acercate Mas," will be in stores on June 25th.
Bon Jovi's Jon Bon Jovi says Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger his "inspiration." The New Jersey rocker admits he's amazed that the Stones are still going more than 50 years later, telling the UK's "Daily Mirror" Jagger and his bandmates "still play great." Jon adds that even though he takes "crazy care" of himself, he's not sure his group will be able to accomplish the same feat. He says he's not sure why he doubts that his band, which is still rocking after 30 years, won't enjoy the same longevity the Stones have. But the singer explains he's just not sure if he'll be able to "hold up for another 20 years," adding that he doesn't think his "bones could keep doing it."
But Bon Jovi is happy with where the band is today. He says he's glad Bon Jovi is still touring behind hit records, because he'd "walk away" if the group were simply on "a nostalgia tour." Jon also credits the group's continually growing fan base for keeping them relevant. He explains that he enjoys performing for crowds that range in age from six to 60, and wouldn't want to play before packed houses of "60-thousand people all 50 and over."
As Jimmy Buffett himself promised, Parrotheads now have a "place to roost in Atlantic City." Resorts Casino has opened its new Margaritaville-themed. Across the boardwalk, the LandShark Bar & Grill is the first of the franchise that is actually on the beach. It's designed to be a year-round operation. There's also the Five O'clock Somewhere Bar, a coffee shop and a gift shop featuring Margaritaville items.
Billy Idol is back on the road. Idol has some treats in store for his audience, and is digging out some rarities for this trek. He says he's filling his sets with songs spanning his entire catalog -- and shows will include one or two Generation X tunes along with his solo material.
Billy Idol Tour Dates
June 18 - Clearwater, Florida, at Ruth Eckerd Hall
June 20 - Vienna, Virginia, at The Wolf Trap at Filene Center
June 21 - Cherokee, North Carolina, at Harrah's Cherokee
June 22 - Elizabeth, Indiana, at the Horseshoe Casino
June 24 - Concho, Oklahoma, at the Lucky Star Casino
June 25 - Catoosa, Oklahoma, at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
June 27 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at Summerfest
June 28 - Council Bluffs, Iowa, at Harrah's Council Bluffs
The Rolling Stones are being celebrated at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Cleveland museum launched a new exhibit about the band, which provides a comprehensive look at the group's entire career. "Rolling Stones: 50 Years of Satisfaction" occupies two-and-a-half floors, and features numerous personal items that have never been publicly displayed before. The exhibit incorporates film footage, artifacts, text, and interactive technology to present the history of the Stones, from their days performing in London clubs through the various incarnations of the group. "Rolling Stones: 50 Years of Satisfaction" opens today, and runs through March 2014.
The late Michael Jackson's sister appears to be doing pretty well. Janet Jackson is stepping foot into the billionaire's girls club. "Variety" says the youngest member of the musical Jackson clan has even surpassed the net worth of her superstar brother while he was alive. Janet has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. She has also earned millions on tour, in film and from sponsorships. The singer recently married another billionaire, businessman Wissam Al Mana. Janet joins Oprah Winfrey and "Harry Potter" creator J.K. Rowling among the exclusive group of the richest women in entertainment.
Joe Walsh and Heart's Ann and Nancy Wilson are among the rockers lending their talents to the upcoming album from Paul Allen. The billionaire co-founder of Microsoft is working on his second studio project, and his first with his new band, The Underthinkers. Los Lobos' David Hidalgo, The Pretenders frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, and Ivan Neville are some of the other guests contributing to "Everywhere At Once." Allman Brother Derek Trucks and Doyle Bramhall the Second are also involved. Allen, who's also a guitarist, had a hand in writing all 13 tracks on the album. The disc features the song "Divine," which was featured in the movie "Magic Mike." Allen's "Everywhere At Once" will be available on August 6th. Paul will be donating the money he makes from the disc to his EMP Museum.
Music fans wanting to attend next spring's Coachella festival can now get their tickets. Passes are on sale at Pacific via Coachella.com. The 2014 edition of the two-weekend event will take place in Indio, California next April. The event is slated for April 11th through the 13th, and the 18th through the 20th. This year's Coachella wrapped its second weekend on April 21st, featuring numerous acts including Red Hot Chili Peppers. Paul McCartney, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, and Iggy and the Stooges have also played Coachella in recent years.
Bon Jovi's Richie Sambora isn't pleased with how frontman Jon Bon Jovi is handling his absence in the media. The guitarist tells the UK's "Daily Mail" he doesn't have "any major problems in life right now," and he's not battling with substance abuse issues. While he also won't disclose exactly what's going on, he implies that the problems are between him and Jon. Sambora says he's "fine" and "working very hard" on his fashion company Nikki Rich. And he speculates that Jon "wants to see if he can pull off stadiums by himself," because the singer is "making it very difficult" for him to return to the band.
Jon has been fielding the Sambora question since early April, when the guitarist suddenly left Bon Jovi's spring tour without explanation. Earlier this week Jon told London's "Evening Standard" it was "getting more and more difficult every day to not just sit here and say something" about Sambora, but explained that his bandmate's absence was "for personal reasons." He also seemed to imply that Sambora was dealing with an addiction issue, saying Sambora has "been through it before." Jon added that they were fortunate that "the same guy who filled in last time was available this time." Guitarist Phil "Phil X" Xenidis, who subbed for Sambora during Richie's 2011 stint in rehab, is once again filling in for Sambora.
Nazareth isn't breaking up. Bassist Pete Agnew says rumors that the band's upcoming appearance at a Swedish festival will be their final show are "a load of rubbish." He explains that he recently learned that the event's promoters are advertising the show as possibly "everyone's last chance to see the band," and he admits he's not sure "where these clowns get their stories from." But Pete adds that it's not "the first time that promoters used these tactics to improve ticket sales and it won't be the last." He's assuring fans that it's not true. Agnew adds that "any big decision concerning the band" will be made by them on their website.
The Doors' drummer John Densmore is remembering the band's late keyboardist Ray Manzarek as a gifted musician who was essential to the group. He says in a Facebook post, that "there was no keyboard player on the planet more appropriate to support Jim Morrison's words." He explains that he "felt totally in sync" with Ray on a musical level, explaining that it was like they were "of one mind, holding down the foundation" for guitarist Robby Krieger and frontman Jim Morrison "to float on top of." John adds that he'll miss his "musical brother." Manzarek died Monday at a clinic in Germany The rock world is mourning the loss of Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek, who died Monday at the age of 74. Among the band's many honors was their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. At the unveiling ceremony in 2007, Manzarek said the star was a validation of the Doors' work.
Elton John's longtime lyricist is denying that he was driving drunk. A lawyer for Bernie Taupin says in a statement to Santa Barbara newspaper "The Independent" that the allegations are false. Attorney Darryl Genis explains that on May 5th Taupin's "vehicle became disabled on the side of the road," and "there is no evidence nor any witness to establish who the driver was at the time." He says a number of police officers responded to the scene claiming they were there to help Bernie and his wife with their truck, but instead they "launched into a DUI investigation" -- even though they didn't know who was driving the vehicle. Genis adds that the incident occurred on a poorly lit road at night, and that Taupin suffers from night vision problems and hearing loss, which "police may have misconstrued" as "signs of intoxication." The lawyer says he's confident the district attorney will "uncover the truth of this matter," and his client will be exonerated.
California Highway Patrol spokesperson John Ortega has told the newspaper that Taupin was behind the wheel when he attempted to turn into a private driveway, and in the process of backing out he hit a fence. While Ortega wouldn't say what Taupin's blood-alcohol level was, he explained that the lyricist was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and, or, alcohol. Taupin has not been given a court date yet.
Barbra Streisand is receiving more recognition, this time in Israel. Hebrew University of Jerusalem plans to present the legendary singer, actress, and filmmaker with an honorary doctor of philosophy degree in a ceremony next month. Hebrew University President Menahem Ben-Sasson says the school is "deeply proud" to honor Streisand for both her lengthy and successful career as well as her humanitarian efforts. He explains that Barbra's "transcendent talent is matched by her passionate concern for equality and opportunity for people of every gender and background," and "her love of Israel and her Jewish heritage are reflected in so many aspects of her life and career." He adds that Streisand exemplifies the values that the school also upholds.
Streisand will receive her degree as part of the 76th Hebrew University International Board of Governors Meeting. The ceremony is set for June 17th.
A rare piece of Beatles memorabilia now has a new owner. A VOX guitar once played by both John Lennon and George Harrison went up for sale at Julien's Auctions' "Music Icons" sale over the weekend. Fetching significantly more than its original estimate. The instrument was highlighted as the showpiece of the auction, and was expected to sell for 200-to-300-thousand-dollars. But Billboard.com says the final sale price was 408-thousand. By comparison, just a few years ago the guitar was sold at a Christie's auction, and went for just over 100-thousand-dollars.
An unnamed buyer purchased the guitar, which left The Beatles' hands back in 1967. According to a Julien's press release, Lennon gave the custom-made instrument to "Magic Alex" Mardas, who was the head of the electronics division of The Beatles' Apple Corps. Lennon had played the guitar during a video session for "Hello, Goodbye," while George used the instrument in a rehearsal of "I Am The Walrus."
The Rolling Stones new documentary, "Crossfire Hurricane," is now available on DVD. Band members teamed up with director Brett Morgen on the 2012 project, which commemorates the Stones' 50th anniversary. The movie incorporates film footage and interview clips to tell the story of the legendary group's five-decade run, from their beginnings in the early '60s as outsiders and their heyday in the '70s, up through their current status as rock royalty. Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, guitarists Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, and drummer Charlie Watts all contribute to the film, along with former members Bill Wyman and Mick Taylor. The Stones' "Crossfire Hurricane" is in stores on DVD and Blu-ray as well as digital video.
A staged reading Friday 5/17/13 drew mixed reviews. One attendee thought the songs "start to sound alike after a while." Another audience member said the first act dragged, but has a powerful ending. A third person compared it to "Billy Elliot," telling the "Post" it's about "working-class people who maintain their dignity in the face of adversity." A potential investor called "The Last Ship" a "very good art musical," but questioned whether it's right for Broadway.
Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne appear to be making progress in reconciling their relationship. TMZ.com says the couple met for lunch at the Polo Lounge in Beverly Hills on Saturday 5/18/13. Ozzy and another man arrived at the restaurant first, but Sharon wasn't far behind. Ozzy's companion stayed for the meal. An unnamed source says the lunch initially appeared to be more pragmatic than romantic, but by the time the meal was over Ozzy and Sharon were reportedly "cozying up together in the booth." Ozzy then accompanied Sharon and daughter Kelly to the An Evening With Women event, and planted a kiss on Sharon for the cameras on the red carpet.
Last month Ozzy admitted to a substance abuse relapse after rumors began circulating that he and Sharon were getting a divorce. While both he and Sharon have denied that they were ending their marriage, they've acknowledged that there have been problems they need to work out.
Reggae veteran Frederick "Toots" Hibbert is nursing a head injury after a bottle attack at a concert in Virginia Saturday 5/18/13. "The Richmond Times-Dispatch" says the 67-year-old Toots and the Maytals singer was treated at a local hospital. His set was cut short as a result of the incident. The bottle was apparently launched onto the stage from the crowd. Richmond Police have arrested and charged a 19-year-old man with aggravated assault and public intoxication. Toots and the Maytals were performing at the three-day Dominion Riverrock Outdoor Sports and Music Festival. A rep for the festival says Toots was in good spirits after leaving the hospital.
Huey Lewis says he could have been a face of Coca-Cola. The rocker tells "Rolling Stone" that back in the 1980s executives from the soft drink approached him about a promotional campaign after Pepsi signed Michael Jackson, because they felt they "had to play catch-up." He says they told him he had "the largest Q score of anybody in America," which measures such factors as likability, recognizability, and credibility -- and that he had "Cokeness." But Lewis says those things didn't really matter to him at the time, and despite the praise he turned down their multimillion dollar offer. Huey admits now that it "could have been good for the career" even beyond the money, and it was "probably a mistake" to have passed on it.
Lewis is currently touring with The News in celebration of the 30th anniversary of their 1983 album "Sports." Their next show is coming up in New Buffalo, New York on May 31st.
KISS' Paul Stanley doesn't hold out much hope of his band ever getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The rocker tells "The Huffington Post" the group's chances depend on "who lives longer" -- them or Rock Hall co-founder Jann Wenner, who has been accused of being biased against KISS. But he's not the only one. Rock Hall nominating committee member Dave Marsh has admitted that he doesn't want KISS on the ballot. Stanley calls it "absurd," given the lengthy list of artists -- many of whom have been inducted -- that call KISS an influence. He also objects to some of the people who have been inducted, citing 2012 inductee Laura Nyro to prove his point. Paul calls himself "one of the biggest Laura Nyro fans," and says he still listens to her music "incessantly." He explains that Nyro "absolutely" fits in the Songwriters Hall of Fame, but she "does not belong in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."
Stanley says he's not lobbying for KISS' induction. He says he would "certainly accept" if given the nod because it's important to the fans but he's not missing the "adoration" of "the people who choose not to see things." Rush, Heart, and Randy Newman were among this year's Rock Hall inductees. An HBO special of last month's ceremony aired on Saturday.
Neil Young is among the first acts to sign on for a new festival set for this fall. He'll be joining Crazy Horse to perform at the inaugural Interlocken Music Festival later this year. The four-day event also features Further featuring the Dead's Bob Weir and Phil Lesh, as well as the Black Crowes, The String Cheese Incident, and the country group Zac Brown Band, and the lineup is expected to grow. Organizers say the event will include sets from artists as well as "unique and exciting artist pairings." The festival will also feature locally grown food, and will place an emphasis on sustainability. The Interlocken Music Festival will take place at the Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, Virginia from September 5th through the 8th.
A singer-songwriter who scored the 1977 number one pop hit "Undercover Angel" has died. "The Hollywood Reporter" says Alan O'Day passed away Friday at his home in Westwood, California home from cancer. He was 72. Before recording his own hit single, O'Day wrote "Rock and Roll Heaven" for the Righteous Brothers and Helen Reddy's chart-topper "Angie Baby." He also penned tunes for Dusty Springfield, Tom Jones, Cher, Johnny Mathis and many others. In the '80s, O'Day and Janis Liebhart co-wrote songs for the Muppet Babies cartoons.
Bob Dylan is now officially in the American Academy of Arts and Letters. The legendary singer-songwriter was voted in as an honorary member earlier this year, becoming the first rocker to be welcomed into the 115-year-old organization. But Bob didn't attend this week's induction ceremony. However, he isn't shunning the honor, either. Dylan sent a statement to Wednesday's event, saying he felt "extremely honored and very lucky to be included in this pantheon of great individual artists who comprise the Academy of Arts and Letters." He added that he was looking forward to "meeting all of you some time soon." And despite the "honorary" title, the Academy wants him on board. Executive Director Virginia Dejani says Dylan was one of several names on the ballot for membership, and "he won handily." She adds that he was only made an "honorary" member because he's "a very multi-talented person" whose work is "so unusual" and "defies categorization."
The Academy also makes note of this Renaissance quality in their citation for him. It reads, "For more than 50 years, defying categorization in a culture beguiled by categories, Bob Dylan has probed and prodded our psyches, recording and then changing our world and our lives through poetry made manifest in song -- creating relationships that we never imagined could exist between words, emotions and ideas."
North American Dates For Paul McCartney's "Out There" Tour
June 14 - Manchester, Tennessee, at Bonnaroo
July 7 - Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, at Scotiabank Place
July 9 - Boston, Massachusetts, at Fenway Park
July 12 - Washington, DC, at Nationals Park
July 14 - Indianapolis, Indiana, at Bankers Life Fieldhouse
July 16 - MIlwaukee, Wisconsin, at Miller Park
July 19 - Seattle, Washington, at Safeco Field
July 23 - Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, at the Plains of Abraham
August 12 - Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, at the Investors Group Field
August 14 - Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, at the Mosaic Stadium at Taylor Field
Bruce Springsteen is teaming up with a Boston-based band in a charitable effort. The Boss is has recorded a song for Dropkick Murphys' fundraising EP to support victims of last month's Boston Marathon bombings. Earlier this week the Bean Town Celtic rockers released "Rose Tattoo," featuring Springsteen on a new version of the title cut. The three-track collection also comes with a pair of live acoustic songs recorded during the Dropkick Murphys show in Las Vegas just four days after the bombings. "Rose Tattoo" is available now exclusively through iTunes, and the band says 100-percent of the money raised will go to people affected by the tragedy via their Claddagh [[ KLAH-duh ]] Fund.
Bill Wyman says he holds no animosity toward his ex-bandmates. The former Rolling Stones bassist tells the UK's "Huffington Post" he's never been a fan of reunions, because "you can't go back to things, and they can never be the same." He explains that when "you try to go back and have a relationship with someone, it doesn't work, and it's the same musically." But that doesn't mean he wasn't willing to give it a try. Wyman says he was ready to be "really involved" in the Stones' 50th anniversary shows last fall, and he found it "very disappointing" when the band only wanted him to join them for a couple of songs. He adds that as a result his appearance at the Stones' London shows was "a one-off." Bill says he has "no regrets," and he and the rest of the group are "still great friends." He adds that it was "nice" that his kids got to see him perform with the Stones. But when it comes to another reunion, Wyman says "never again."
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are back on the road.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Tour Dates
June 11: Los Angeles, CA (Fonda Theatre)
June 15: Noblesville, IN (Klipsch Music Center)
June 16: Manchester, TN (Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival)
June 18: London, Ontario, Canada (Budweiser Gardens)
June 20: Pittsburgh, PA (Consol Energy Center)
June 22: Dover, DE (Firefly Music Festival)
June 23: Saratoga Springs, NY (Saratoga Performing Arts Center)
June 28: Milwaukee, WI (Marcus Amphitheater/Summerfest)
June 29: Minneapolis, MN (Target Center)
The Beatles' second film is coming to Blu-ray. The band's 1965 movie "Help!" is a complete work of fiction, featuring the Fab Four in their efforts to keep Ringo from an evil cult who wants to use him in a sacrifice ritual. In a promotional clip for the upcoming release, director Richard Lester explains that they didn't want to simply make a color recreation of their first movie, "A Hard Day's Night," but were limited with what they could do in the quasi-biographical realm.
Actress Eleanor Bron, who played the high priestess Ahme in "Help!," adds that she thinks The Beatles like the idea of a fictional film, because they all wanted to act. In addition to the film, the "Help!" Blu-ray also includes an hour of bonus material, including documentaries about making the film and the restoration process, memories from the cast and crew, the original trailer, and more. The package also includes a booklet featuring an introduction from Lester as well as "an appreciation" by director Martin Scorsese. The "Help!" Blu-ray will be in stores on June 25th.
R.E.M.'s Mike Mills says he and his bandmates meant it when they said they were done. The former bassist for the now-defunct band tells "Rolling Stone" that if there was a chance of a reunion tour, they probably would have said so when they announced their amicable breakup in 2011. But even though Mills says there are "absolutely zero" plans to hit the road again as R.E.M., he admits that "absolutely nobody can predict the future." Plus, he says there's still a good possibility that "fun things" will happen between the band members, such as his guest appearance at one of R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck's live gigs a few weeks ago in New York City.
Meanwhile, R.E.M. is focusing on this week's 25th anniversary re-release of their 1988 album "Green." Mills says the project will likely continue when the anniversary of "Green's" follow-up, "Out of Time," rolls around in 2016.
Ginger Baker admits he was the last person to know he was a drummer. The rock legend tells "The Telegraph" that when he was younger he was "obsessed with the idea" of being a professional cyclist. He says he had a passion for cycling, and used to ride his bike every day -- until he "had a smash-up" and his bike "was a write-off." Baker says that's when he turned his attention to music. He recalls that he "had to earn some money," and a friend suggested he take up the drums. Baker says "they all knew" he was a drummer, but he hadn't realized that yet. But in hindsight he admits it was obvious. Ginger says he often went to jazz shows, and was "always beating rhythms." He adds that when he first sat behind a drum kit, he "just did it."
Former Men At Work frontman Colin Hay is showcasing his latest work on TV. The Australian rocker is a guest on today's edition of the syndicated "Jeff Probst Show," and performs his new song "Send Somebody."
Hay also opens up about his life and career. He tells Probst about his years with Men At Work, including what it was like when the band splintered and the celebrity perks began to disappear. He also discusses his past 25 years as a solo artist. Colin shares stories from his personal life as well, including the time Paul McCartney was a guest at his home -- and washed the dishes.
"Send Somebody" is from Hay's latest release, "Gathering Mercury." The album is available now.
KISS has big plans for their upcoming tour. The band's blood-spitting bassist Gene Simmons told fans at the KISS Fan Expo in Indianapolis the group's new stage show features a giant spider that's "beyond anything" they've done before.
Simmons also says their set will feature a 70-foot video screen backdrop, that KISS will rise up and "levitate and go 30 rows into the audience," and they'll play some songs as well. The rocker admits that their new stage production "costs a fortune," but they wanted to do something "spectacular" for the fans. KISS will launch their 2013 Monster Tour in Stockholm on June 1st and play a series of Canadian dates in July. The band's U.S. run begins in Gilford, New Hampshire on August 7th.
A man who has worked with numerous stars, including Diana Ross; Boz Scaggs; Earth, Wind, and Fire; Chicago, and The Scorpions, is getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Famed record producer David Foster will be honored later this month. The Grammy winner's unveiling ceremony is set to take place in front of the Capitol Records Building on Vine Street on May 31st. Singer Natalie Cole is scheduled to take part in the event, which is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. local time. Fans who can't attend the ceremony in person will be able to watch the event live at walkoffame.com.
The mom of late Thin Lizzy frontman Phil Lynott says she's relieved the damage done to the statue of her son was unintentional. Philomena Lynott tells Ireland's "Hot Press" she's learned that the bronze was accidentally knocked over by "a bunch of high spirited boys who meant no harm," so she's "not annoyed with them" and is "only hoping that none of the lads got hurt." Two men reportedly turned themselves in last Friday in connection with the incident, which happened in Dublin Thursday night. Authorities still plan to file charges against the men. But police say the court might go easy on them, since they're taking responsibility for their actions. An unnamed source says it was a stupid accident, with "drink having been taken." The men have also reached out to Philomena, who is thanking the men for coming forward. Meanwhile, the statue is being repaired. It's expected to be returned to Harry Street by the end of the week.
Soccer fans in Paul McCartney's hometown of Liverpool, England, are appealing to the rock legend to save their local team. An online petition drive is under way in an effort to get the former Beatle to purchase the Everton Football Club, both to prevent the team from going into bankruptcy and to keep Ukrainian billionaire Oleg Bakhmatyuk from becoming its new owner. The petition creators admit it hasn't been easy to find a new owner, since the buyer will also have to fund the construction of a new stadium for the team. But they claim Bakhmatyuk has been involved in "nefarious business dealings," and don't want to see their team fall into his hands. They say it's why they're "turning our hopes to Sir Paul, one of the most gifted musicians and one of our greatest humanitarians around the world," to "purchase our illustrious football club."
TMZ.com says the price tag on the team is 200-million-dollars, which is roughly a quarter of McCartney's reported 800-million-dollar fortune.
Overall, The Beatles still rule. Just over three-quarters of the adults taking part in a "Public Policy Polling" survey say they have a "favorable" opinion of the Fab Four, which is the highest number of positive votes among the acts featured in the "Music Icons" poll. The Beach Boys rank second with "favorable" votes from 74-percent, while 73-percent like Elvis Presley. The Rolling Stones are drawing "favorable" votes from 61-percent. Only 48-percent are giving a thumbs up to Michael Jackson, and just 36-percent say they like Madonna. Only a quarter of those polled are fans of the late Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain. Meanwhile, 32-percent feel the '60s was the best decade for music, and a quarter believe the '70s had the best music. Nearly 20-percent prefer the songs from the '50s, and 15-percent are fans of '80s music. But fewer than ten-percent like the music from the '90s or the past decade.
Huey Lewis and the News frontman Huey Lewis says "Sports" isn't just a landmark album for the group. The singer explains that the 1983 disc represents a different era in the music business.
Lewis adds that MTV was still very new when "Sports" first arrived, and the music industry was radio driven. He explains that at the time MTV was interested in playing videos of radio hits, and the clip's quality didn't really matter. That meant Huey Lewis and the news got a lot of MTV exposure, courtesy of "Sports." The album gave the band their first chart-topping hit, "Heart and Soul," while three other tracks -- "I Want A New Drug," "The Heart of Rock and Roll," and "If This Is It" -- all reached the top ten.
Huey Lewis and the News' special two-disc "Sports (30th Anniversary Edition)" is in stores. The band is supporting the release with TV appearances. They'll be a guest today on the syndicated "Live with Kelly and Michael," and be the musical guest on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" on Wednesday.
R.E.M.'s Mike Mills says the band's 1988 album "Green" was all about moving away from the "traditional R.E.M." The bassist tells "Rolling Stone" that they wanted to try something different and have fun with their major label debut, which is available in a deluxe 25th anniversary edition. Mills explains that they made a conscious effort to "shake things up," which meant a wide variety of musical styles and less electric guitar. Case in point, he says it was actually drummer Bill Berry who came up with the mandolin riff they used on the song "Hairshirt." Mills says they just took the best songs, and knew that frontman Michael Stipe's voice would help hold the final product together.
The 25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of "Green" features a remastered version of the original album plus a live recording of the band's show in Greensboro, North Carolina from the tail end of their extensive "Green" tour. Mills says everyone was "really tight" during that gig, and calls it R.E.M.'s "best sounding show from that era."
CBS and the Recording Academy are setting the stage for music's biggest night for the next two years. Dates have been announced for the 2014 and 2015 Grammy Awards. Next year's ceremony will be held on January 26th, 2014 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The 2015 follow up will be held on February 8th. Both shows will air live on CBS. According to Nielsen, more than 28 million people tuned in to this year's Grammy telecast. It was the second largest audience for the program since 1993. Last year's telecast drew almost 40 million people in the aftermath of Whitney Houston's sudden death just one day before the awards.
A disruptive Whitney Houston fan was behind an emergency plane landing in Kansas City, Missouri last week. Charlotte TV station WBTV says the woman kept up her singing of Houston's signature hit "I Will Always Love You" as she was handcuffed by an air marshal on board the New York-bound American Airlines flight Thursday. Video taken by a passenger shows the woman being escorted down the aisle in full performance mode. She was reportedly released without charges after an interview with the Kansas City Police Department. Whitney Houston died last year at the age of 48.
Dickey Betts is finally opening up about his health. After postponing shows over the past several weeks "due to doctor's orders," the manager for the former Allman Brothers Band guitarist is now explaining what's been going on. David Spero says in a Facebook post that the "good news" is all the testing Betts has undergone, including bladder and prostate biopsies, have been "negative for cancer." He adds that on Friday Dickey had a procedure done to "give him some relief from the problems that put those tests in motion." However, it meant the Dickey Betts and Great Southern show last Friday at Wild Bill's in Duluth, Georgia -- which was a make-good for their April 13th appearance -- had to be pushed back again. But Dickey will be rescheduling the show. He's also set new dates for his other missed shows.
Betts is expected to be back in action next month. He's scheduled to resume performing with a show with Great Southern in Plymouth, New Hampshire on June 7th.
David Bowie's classic hit "Space Oddity" is getting a very authentic remake. NASA commander Chris Hadfield has recorded his own version of the song while at the International Space Station, altering the lyrics a bit to fit his particular situation. The video shows Hadfield floating throughout the ISS as he plays guitar and peers out windows at the Earth. "The Los Angeles Times" says the Canadian astronaut made the first music video in space just prior to his return to this planet.
Annie Lennox recalls that when she was a kid she didn't know becoming a famous singer-songwriter was even an option. Boston.com says the former Eurythimcs frontwoman shared her own musical journey in her commencement address at Berkley College of Music's graduation ceremony, which took place in Boston on Saturday 5/11/13. Lennox praised her parents for supporting her musical ambitions, and paying for lessons even though money was tight. She also said she eventually realized she "had to unlearn just about everything" she'd been taught about music in order to pursue her own path. Lennox added that she hoped graduates could see the "value of unorthodoxy" through her story, and draw inspiration from it.
In addition to giving her address, Lennox joined Carole King and Willie Nelson in receiving an honorary doctor of music degree from the school. Berklee president Roger Brown told graduates that the three stars were selected for the degree not only for their musical accomplishments, but for using their music to "do something good in the world," and added his hope that the students would "take note of that." Lennox, King, and Nelson also took part in a concert salute in their honor, which is a traditional part of the Berklee graduation event.
There could be more new Fleetwood Mac music on the way. Lindsey Buckingham tells Billboard.com the group recorded five other songs along with the four tracks on their recently released "Extended Play" EP. He admits it "may be too early to tell where things are going to go" with those other tracks, he says he'd like to put them out. He explains that it's "just a question of how and when." Buckingham adds that he likes that there are a number of avenues available now for releasing material, and albums aren't the only viable option. He says it reminds him of when he was a kid, when "the single was the thing" and "EPs were all over the place." Lindsey adds that it "really is tantalizing to be able to put together just a few things, three or four songs on an EP." But he also admits he's not sure if Fleetwood Mac will -- or should -- continue to release EPs, explaining that "you just do what you can do and what makes sense logically -- and politically."
Fleetwood Mac has incorporated two of the four tracks from "Extended Play" into their sets on their current tour, playing "Sad Angel" and "Without You" at most shows.
Donovan is sharing his latest work with his fans. To celebrate his 67th birthday last Friday, the singer-songwriter posted a link to a free stream of his new single, "To Love You." Donovan adds in his website post that he'll post another new song this Friday, but doesn't give this track's name. Both songs will be on Donovan's new album, "Shadows of Blue," which he plans to release on Friday, May 31st. He recorded the project in Nashville, which is where he cut his first single, "Catch The Wind," back in 1965.
Katy Perry is the latest surprise guest to show up on stage with the Rolling Stones. On Saturday 5/11/13, the pop star joined the legendary rockers for a stop on their "50 and Counting" tour at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, on their hit "Beast Of Burden." Katy confirmed that she'd be the night's special guest just a few hours before taking the stage, tweeting that she was "much obliged and quite honored" to be their pick this week. After her performance, she took to Twitter again raving about having had just "gyrated on Mick Jagger." Other artists who have joined the Stones on their tour so far include Gwen Stefani, Keith Urban, and Tom Waits.
YouTube's temporary takedown of David Bowie's new video is opening the floodgates for critics of the clip. The Catholic League is among those weighing in on Bowie's religious-themed visual for his new song "The Next Day." The group's president Bill Donohue blasted the video on the Catholic League website, calling it the work of a "switch-hitting, bisexual senior citizen from London" and "strewn with characteristic excess." In short, Donohue calls the video, "a mess." Bowie's "Next Day" video stars the 66-year-old British rocker looking Christ-like in his role as a nightclub performer as priests and prostitutes mingle in the club. Gary Oldman and Marion Cotillard co-star. In one scene, blood gushes from stigmata wounds in the palms of Cotillard's character.
YouTube briefly removed the clip from the video-sharing website Wednesday for violating its terms of service. It later reinstated it with an adult ratings restriction for viewers. "The Next Day" is from Bowie's latest album of the same name. The album was released in March.
One of the most successful tours of 2011 is coming to the small screen. Madonna has announced that a concert film of her "MDNA" tour will be premiering on EPIX on June 22nd, as one of the network's Original Concert Events. A post of the star's official site says the film will include footage from various dates of the tour, but primarily from her stop in Miami in November 2011. The concert movie was directed by Stephane Sennour and Danny Tull, who worked with Madonna on her 2011 film "W.E." The EPIX film will include performances of some of the biggest hits of her career, including "Vogue," "Like A Prayer," "Hung Up," as well as her most recent work with songs like "Girl Gone Wild" and "Give Me All Your Luvin'." Madonna describes her "MDNA" show as "the journey of a soul from darkness to light" and "part cinematic musical theatre-part spectacle."
The "MDNA" tour was experienced by over two-point-two million people across the globe over the course of 88 sold-out shows.
Van Halen has added another show to their schedule. The California Mid-State Fair has announced that the band will be appearing at the Paso Robles event this summer. The group is slated to take the stage at the Chumash Grandstand Arena on July 24th. Tickets go on sale May 17th. The fair is Van Halen's second planned U.S. show this year. The group will also headline the final day of the four-day Rock USA festival in Oshkosh, Wisconsin on July 20th. Prior to their Stateside shows, Van Halen will be overseas. The band has four concerts set for Japan, which are make-goods for the dates they postponed last fall.
Huey Lewis and The News' "Sports 30th Anniversary Tour" Dates
June 11 - Paducah, Kentucky, at The Carson Center
June 13 - Dallas, Texas, at Strauss Square
June 14 - Quapaw, Oklahoma, at the Downstream Casino
June 15 - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at Frontier City
June 20 - Kansas City, Missouri, at The Midland
June 22 - St. Louis, Missouri, at River City Casino
June 23 - Chicago, Illinois, at Montrose Beach
July 5 - Manson, Washington, at the Deepwater Amphitheater
July 6 - Portland, Oregon, at the Oregon Zoo Amphitheater
July 7 - Seattle, Washington, at the Woodland Park Zoo Amphitheater
July 11 - San Diego, California, at Humphrey's
July 12 - Oakville, California, at the Robert Mondavi Winery
July 13 - Lincoln, California, at the Thunder Valley Casino Amphitheater
July 16 - Livermore, California, at the Wente Vineyards
July 22 - Layton, Utah, at the Edward A. Kenley Centennial Amphitheater
July 23 - Sandy, Utah, at the Sandy City Amphitheater
July 26 - Paso Robles, California, at the California Mid-State Fair
July 27 - Saratoga, California, at the Mountain Winery
August 13 - Vienna, Virginia, at the Wolf Trap/The Filene Center
August 18 - Westhampton Beach, New York, at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center
August 21 - Sun Valley, Idaho, at the Sun Valley Pavilion
August 23 - Peachtree City, Georgia, at The Fred
August 24 - Ashland, Kentucky, at the Paramount Arts Center
August 25 - Nashville, Tennessee, at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center
August 26 - Knoxville, Tennessee, at the Tennessee Theatre
August 29 - Mashantucket, Connecticut, at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods Casino
August 30 - Hyannis, Massachusetts, at the Cape Cod Melody Tent
August 31 - Salamanca, New York, at the Seneca Allegany Events Center
Another stop and another slate of guests for the Rolling Stones. The band welcomed John Fogerty to join them at their show in San Jose, Califonia on Wednesday 5/8/13. He and Mick Jagger shared the chorus to the early Stones hit "It's All Over Now" before Jagger handed the vocalst over to Fogerty. The concert also featured a guest appearance from Bonnie Raitt, who added her talents to "Let It Bleed."
The Doors' John Densmore says he wouldn't rule out reteaming with his old bandmates. The drummer tells "Rolling Stone" the issues that kept them estranged for much of the past decade are now behind them, and he's rekindled a relationship with both Robby Krieger and Ray Manzarek. He adds that he'd even be willing to "get together for a one-off if there's a good reason." But John isn't interested in simply cashing in, saying it would "have to be for charity, not money." Densmore explains that their disputes in recent years, which were eventually resolved in court, were simply his efforts to maintain The Doors' integrity and authenticity. He says he has no problem with Ray and Robby -- or anyone else -- performing Doors music as long as they aren't claiming to be The Doors and they aren't using the songs for advertising purposes.
David Bowie's controversial new video is getting a reprieve. After pulling it from the video-sharing website hours after its release Wednesday, YouTube returned the video to the site a few hours later with a rating restriction for viewers ages 18 and above. A rep for the Google-owned company said they made the "wrong call" in removing the clip but acted quickly to reinstate it once its removal was brought to their attention. The site originally said the video was removed because its content violated its terms of service.
The video is for Bowie's new single "The Next Day." It stars the British rock vet in a Christ-like role and actors Marion Cotillard [[ koh-tee-yahrd ]] and Gary Oldman cavorting as a prostitute and a priest in a Christian-themed bar. Cotillard's character also transforms into a saint after blood gushes from stigmata wounds in her palms. "The Next Day" is from Bowie's new album of the same name, which was released in March.
The Beatles are coming to Broadway. Producers behind the British show "Let It Be" have announced plans to bring the production to the U.S. this summer. The show takes audiences through the history of the legendary group, from their days at the Cavern Club in their hometown of Liverpool through the frenetic days of Beatlemania to their later years as a studio band. The Beatles music also receives a showcase, and includes such hits as "She Loves You," "Yesterday," "Hey Jude," and the title song. "Let It Be" launched in London last fall in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the start of band's recording career. Previews will begin at New York's St. James Theater on July 16th. Opening night is set for July 24th.
Seven-point-two million dollars isn't bad for a day's work -- even for Madonna. A painting owned by the Queen of Pop was sold at Sotheby's auction house in New York City on Tuesday 5/7/13. "The New York Times" says Madonna originally purchased the painting, Fernand Leger's "Three Women at the Red Table," for three-point-four million dollars back in 1990. She reportedly had had plans to sell the work of art for some time. Madonna released a statement earlier this year saying whatever she gained from the Leger painting would benefit her charity, The Ray of Light Foundation, which supports girls' educational projects. She said she wanted to "trade something valuable for something invaluable" in impoverished countries.
The identity of the buyer is unknown. "Three Women at the Red Table" was painted by the French artist in 1921 as a part of a well-known series.
Former Jefferson Starship bassist Pete Sears is finally getting his "Dragon" back. The rocker tells "Rolling Stone" he'd only had the custom-made bass guitar a few months in 1978, and planned to play it on stage for the first time at a festival in Germany -- which was the last time he saw it. He recalls the weather was bad and singer Grace Slick, who at the time was struggling with alcoholism, wouldn't take the stage, so the band had to cancel. Pete says things went from bad to worse when the group's cancellation and refund announcement was mistranslated, and "bottles, bricks and rocks started raining on the stage." He says the crowd rushed the stage and started tossing equipment into the Rhine River, and someone hacked up the drum kit with an ax. During a salvage attempt the next day, "Dragon" was nowhere to be found.
But even decades later one of the men who built "Dragon" hadn't given up hope. In 2009 Tom Lieber went on a Grateful Dead forum to request for information about the instrument, and finally got a response last month from Klaus Wilm. The German musician said he bought the bass in the early '90s from someone in the Netherlands who told him the instrument once belonged to Golden Earring. Wilm added that his own efforts to research the instrument's history went nowhere. Sears says Lieber got him in touch with Wilm, who agreed to sell it back to him for 32-hundred-dollars. The bass is now on its way to Lieber, who'll restore the instrument. And Pete is looking forward to "Dragon's" return, admitting he "just can't wait to get it back and hold it again."
KISS' latest venture really is full of bull. The band has forged a new partnership with Professional Bull Riders. Their collaboration includes a new spin on the typical sporting event's fan cam with the new "8-Second KISS Kam," which really puts couples on the spot. Those captured on the PBR's KISS Kam will be clocked, and have to hold a lip-lock for eight-seconds -- the duration of a successful bull ride. Along with being displayed on the big screens at the PBR events, videos of "8-Second KISS Kam" participants will be posted online at www.pbr.com/KISS for people to vote on their favorite clips. KISS has also named six bulls that will be featured at PBR events. KISS Monster, KISS Destroyer, KISS Animalize, KISS Revenge, KISS Love Gun, and KISS Psycho Circus will be among the animals trying to keep the world's best bull riders from reaching their eight-second mark.
The Rolling Stones say they aren't trying to gouge their fans with their "50 and Counting" shows. While tickets are going for up to 600 dollars, guitarist Keith Richards says the group could have charged even more. He tells "Rolling Stone" the band "actually did push down the prices a little bit," explaining that when they received proposals from the various promoters, they "took the lower offer." However, the rocker also admits he doesn't have much to do with the financial aspects of touring. But he says he'd like for fans to "be able to afford to get in without sort of starving their babies and all." So far the Stones have played two shows -- in Los Angeles and Oakland, California -- and they've both been sell-outs.
And the promoter is denying that they're having to discount tickets in order to fill the venues. Concerts West's John Meglen tells Billboard.biz they've used "flex pricing," and have made adjustments when sales have slowed. But he says the strategy is effective against scalpers and ticket brokers. He explains that the pricing structure has enabled them to take "the lion's share of the money" out of the pockets of the ticket resellers and give it to the band.
A new iPad app is opening more windows to The Doors. Due out Wednesday, the app provides users access to hundreds of photos, cartoons, concert footage, FBI documents and essays from surviving members of the Los Angeles-origins band, Patti Smith, Hunter S. Thompson, among others. The app sells for $4.99. Some early reviews say it offers "great depth and sensitivity" to the true history of The Doors and their music. It was created with the blessing and help of Elektra Records founder Jac Holzman who signed the Doors in 1966.
Lindsey Buckingham is calling "Sad Angel" the "most Fleetwood Mac-y" song on the band's new EP, "Extended Play." He tells "Rolling Stone" he wrote it for Stevie Nicks, explaining that even now, decades after their relationship ended, they're "still writing songs that are dialogues for each other." Lindsey also believes it's one of the best songs the group has recorded in a while. And it's one of two new songs Fleetwood Mac has added to their live show. Lindsey says they also perform "Without You," a song Stevie wrote in the '70s during their days as the duo Buckingham-Nicks. He calls it "a very sweet song" that "really harkens back" to a time when they were "far more innocent." Lindsey adds that he found "an appropriateness in doing something that predates Fleetwood Mac," because he feels he and Stevie "have more of a connection" now than they've had "for a while."
Lionel Richie is among the many stars slated to take part in this fall's Austin City Limits Music Festival. He's part of a lineup that also features Depeche Mode, The Cure, Queens of the Stone Age, and Wilco. Country stars Eric Church and The Mavericks are also on board for the event, which this year is expanding to two weekends. The 2013 Austin City Limits Music Festival will take place at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas from October 4th through the 6th, and resuming on October 11th through the 13th. Tickets and other details are available online at ACLFestival.com.
Peter Gabriel's collaborator on his 1986 chart-topping hit "In Your Eyes" is one of this year's recipients of Sweden's Polar Music Prize. Senegalese performer Youssou N'Dour is one of the best known singers throughout most of Africa. He's also worked with a number of Western artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Paul Simon, and Neneh Cherry as well as Gabriel. Youssou will receive his prize, which includes a monetary award of just over 150-thousand-dollars, at a ceremony in Stockholm on August 27th.
Youssou is joining a prestigious group with the award. Previous recipients include Paul McCartney, Elton John, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and Burt Bacharach. Springsteen was honored in 1997. Simon received the Polar Music Prize last year.
Sam Moore still plans to perform for George Jones. The R&B star was originally among the many artists who had signed on to perform with the country legend this fall at his final Nashville concert. But plans have changed in the wake of Jones' death last month. The show will still go on, and serve as a tribute concert to the Country Music Hall of Famer. Numerous other stars, including Charlie Daniels, Garth Brooks, and Kid Rock, are slated for the show as well. The all-star event will take place at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena on November 22nd.
The man who won a Grammy for his remix of Cher's "Believe" has died. Peter Rauhofer's manager announced Tuesday via Facebook that the famed producer and DJ had lost his battle with brain cancer, just a month after he went public with his illness. He was 48. Rauhofer will be buried in his native Austria. The Austrian native won the Best Remixer of the Year Grammy in 2000 for his version of Cher's hit. He also remixed songs from other stars, including Madonna and Whitney Houston.
Rod Stewart admits he has a lengthy and somewhat strange friendship with Elton John. The rocker tells ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" he and Elton once went on a safari in Kenya, which says was "so gay" and "wonderful." Rod adds that Elton is one of the most generous people he's ever known. He recalls one year back in the '70s when they exchanged Christmas gifts he spent approximately 700 dollars on a fancy champagne refrigerator for Elton, while Elton gave him a Rembrandt. Stewart says Elton liked the fridge, but adds that they've also "joked about it" since then.
But Rod says he's outgrown one habit Kimmel thought they had in common -- a propensity to leave his mark by drawing a particular part of the male anatomy. Stewart explains that he and his bandmates used make the obscene doodle in each others' passports, which added a potentially embarrassing wrinkle to touring. Rod is promoting his new album, "Time," which is in stores. The disc is his first collection of new, original rock and pop songs in more than a decade. It's receiving favorable reviews from the critics, which the singer says is a nice change of pace.
All the concert's forces and all the president's bend couldn't bring Led Zeppelin back together again. CBS' 60MinutesOvertime.com says concert organizers for last year's "12-12-12 Concert for Sandy Relief" enlisted the negotiating know-how of former President Bill Clinton to help reunite the British rockers for the fundraising event, to no avail. The director of the Robin Hood Foundation, David Saltzman, tells the webcast movie mogul Harvey Weinstein reached out to Clinton who reached out to the band, but they just wouldn't do it. The show went on without Led Zeppelin but with The Rolling Stones, The Who, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, Alicia Keys, Kanye West and others. The concert raised 30 million dollars in relief money for victims of Superstorm Sandy, which wreaked havoc on the East Coast last fall.
A rock 'n' roll-themed restaurant owned by two KISS band members will soon open in Torrance, California. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley will open their third Rock & Brews restaurant located on Pacific Coast Highway Thursday to the public. The nearly 55-hundred square-foot venue features rock art, rock posters and dozens of craft beers in a backstage concert setting. The Rock & Brews flagship location opened in El Segundo in 2012.
Journey and Joe Walsh are getting some recognition for their recent work with country stars. The rockers are among the nominees for this spring's CMT Music Awards. They both have bids for Collaborative Video of the Year. Walsh has a nod with Brad Paisley for their efforts on "Rocky Mountain Way," which they played together last year on "CMT Crossroads: Joe Walsh and Friends." Journey is in the category with Rascal Flatts for their rendition of the country trio's hit "Changed," from their special Super Bowl edition of "Crossroads" earlier this year. In addition, Journey and Rascal Flatts' collaboration on "Don't Stop Believin'," also from their "Crossroads" episode, is in the running for CMT Performance of the Year. Voting is under way now at CMT.com. The 2013 CMT Music Awards will be presented in a ceremony in Nashville, and air on CMT on June 5th.
Meanwhile, Journey and Rascal Flatts aren't finished working together. The bands will be teaming for two more shows later this summer. The groups are slated to appear at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Pennsylvania on August 1st., and they'll take the stage at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey on August 4th.
Paul McCartney is now officially "Out There." The former Beatle launched his 2013 world tour over the weekend with a performance in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. And his 30-song set included a number of surprises that were captured on YouTube. Paul launched the show with "Eight Days A Week," marking only the second time the song has ever been performed live. McCartney had only played "Eight Days A Week" in concert one other time before, back in 1965 with The Beatles. The show also featured the concert debuts of the Beatles songs "Your Mother Should Know," "Being For The Benefit Of Mr Kite!," Lovely Rita," and "All Together Now." The capacity crowd of 55-thousand also heard Paul's solo debut performances of the Wings hits "Listen To What The Man Said" and "Hi, Hi, Hi." The show also marked the first time in 20 years Paul has performed his debut solo single, "Another Day." He closed the concert with two three-song encores.
Tom Waits is the latest guest to join the Rolling Stones on their "50 and Counting" tour. Waits made a guest appearance at the Stones' show Sunday in Oakland, California, teaming up with Mick Jagger and the band on the blues classic "Little Red Rooster." "Little Red Rooster" dates back to the Stones' early days. The band released the Willie Dixon cover as a single in Europe in November 1964, and included it on their 1965 U.S. album "Rolling Stones Now!" Waits' appearance continues the Stones' guest trend. The band's tour opener Friday in Los Angeles included surprise appearances from No Doubt's Gwen Stefani and country star Keith Urban. The Stones' next stop is coming up in San Jose, California on Wednesday.
Ozzy Osbourne says money isn't the only thing that kept drummer Bill Ward from taking part in the Black Sabbath reunion. The singer tells "Mojo" magazine that Bill wasn't up to the task. He explains that he suggested they run through their set with Ward, because Bill was "so out of condition" and they needed to know he could play for up to two hours straight. Ozzy says they discovered that Ward didn't remember the songs. He explains that Ward had yellow post-its with song notes stuck all over his drums. Osbourne says it "would have been cool" if Bill would have just "come clean" and admitted he couldn't "cut this gig," and they might have been able to work something out. But Ozzy adds that he understands Bill's efforts to save face, because his "pride was hurt." He also says Bill will "always be a dear dear friend and a brother" to him, and he's "not gonna give Bill a hatchet job." But he admits they don't have the "patience to deal with it."
The three-quarters Black Sabbath reunion, featuring Ozzy, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler with Ozzy's touring drummer Tommy Clufetos, is currently on the road. They'll be wrapping up their Australian tour with a show in Adelaide Tuesday. The band's new album "13," which they recorded with Rage Against the Machine drummer Brad Wilk, will hit stores next month.
The messages Billings allegedly sent use vile language to reference Griffin, claim Patty is "ruining" Robert, and call Plant's relationship with Griffin a "betrayal." Billings' notes also say she "cannot, will not, shall not live this way anymore." Plant has also hired a security assessment team to help him with the situation, and they believe Billings poses a danger to Robert and Patty.
Aerosmith is canceling a trip to Indonesia over "safety concerns." The rockers have scrapped their May 11th concert in Jakarta, issuing an apology through promoter Ismaya Live and telling everyone who bought tickets that they'll try to "make it up to them." Steven Tyler and the gang have yet to offer any specific reasons for their "safety concerns." However, some are pointing to the fact that Indonesian police arrested two men late last week who were suspected of planning to bomb Myanmar's embassy in Jakarta.
Meanwhile, Aerosmith is scheduled to take the stage in the Philippines on Wednesday. The band is also gearing up for the recently announced Boston benefit concert set to take place on May 30th.
The Rolling Stones are back on the road. The band launched their "50 and Counting" trek Friday in Los Angeles." RollingStone.com says the band's set featured the debut performance of the chart-topping hit "Emotional Rescue," which is posted on YouTube. And like the Stones' shows last fall, opening night included a couple of surprise guests. "Rolling Stone" praises country star Keith Urban's contributions to "Respectable," but isn't quite as favorable of Gwen Stefani. The No Doubt frontwoman joined the Stones on "Wild Horses." But the publication says she "couldn't find the heart" of the song, and was "just offering vocal swoops and hiccups." Former Stones guitarist was also on hand -- as expected -- for the classic "Midnight Rambler." "Rolling Stone" says Taylor "looked like he was having the time of his life, and he played like it, too." Other highlights includes "Factory Girl" and "It's Only Rock 'n Roll." The Stones' tour continued with a show in Oakland, California Sunday night. Their next stop will be in San Jose on Wednesday.
Mötley Crüe guitarist Mick Mars got an unwanted birthday present from a fan this weekend. According to TMZ.com, Mars was knocked to the ground by an overzealous concertgoer during the band's show in Canada Saturday night, which was also his 62nd birthday. The man ran across the stage in between songs, knocking over Mars and then making his way to frontman Vince Neil. But security got ahold of him before that and took him away. Mötley Crüe left the stage for a bit to make sure Mars wasn't hurt. Once they determined he was, they returned to the stage and went on with the show. They're set to continue the tour Monday night with a show in Brandon, Manitoba.
Elton John is drawing praise for both his performance and his support in the fight against multiple sclerosis. Elton was the headliner for the 20th annual Race To Erase MS fundraising event, which took place in Los Angeles Friday night. Sharon Osbourne and her son Jack, who was diagnosed with MS last year, were honored at the event for their efforts to bring awareness to the disease. Sharon says it's "because of Jack" that Elton lent his talents to the benefit. She tells "Rolling Stone" that her friendship with Elton dates back 40 years, so he's known Jack since birth. She adds that Elton "has always been there" for her and her family.
Guns N' Roses guitarist Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal and Ziggy Marley were among the stars attending the event. They tell the publication the issue is personal for them, as they each know someone battling the disease. Rod Stewart and country singer Kellie Picker were some of the other celebrities seen at the gala.
Alice Cooper says he believes he and Marilyn Manson make a great tour pairing. But Alice admits he had a different name in mind for their upcoming trek. Both Cooper and Manson say they intend to make appearances during each other's sets. Alice adds that he's been teaching Marilyn "how to throw knives." The "Masters Of Madness" tour is set to begin in Albuquerque, New Mexico on June 1st.
Aerosmith has a new concert DVD on the way. "Rock For The Rising Sun" covers the band's concerts in Tokyo in the fall of 2011 -- less than a year after the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck the country and triggered a nuclear nightmare. In the trailer for the film frontman Steven Tyler expresses the band's admiration for their audience in light of what they've been going through. The film includes stage footage as well as backstage and other material from the tour that highlight the relationship Aerosmith has with their Japanese fans. "Rock For The Rising Sun" is expected to hit stores in June.
Tickets for the Boston benefit concert go on sale today. Aerosmith, the J. Geils Band, Jimmy Buffett, Carole King, and James Taylor are among the many artists slated to take part in the fundraising event, which will support victims of last month's Boston Marathon bombing. "Boston Strong: An Evening of Support and Celebration" will also feature Extreme, New Kids On The Block, Jason Aldean, and others. The show will take place at the TD Garden in Boston on May 30th.
Cher's documentary about her mother will have its premiere tonight. Cher tells "USA Today" that "Dear Mom, Love Cher" is "totally real." She adds that it's "a good Mother's Day special," but admits it's "not Hallmark." The hour-long special will air on Lifetime at 10:00 p.m. Eastern.
The Rolling Stones are back in action.
Rolling Stones North American Tour Dates
6/12 Boston, MA - TD Garden
6/14 Boston, MA - TD Garden
6/18 Philadelphia, PA - Wells Fargo Center
6/21 Philadelphia, PA - Wells Fargo Center
A biopic in-the-making about record producer Neil Bogart has just added some major star power. According to Deadline.com Justin Timberlake has signed on to play Bogart, the 1970s music industry icon and founder of Casablanca Records. The film, named "Spinning Gold," was written and developed by Neil's Timothy Scott Bogart, and seemed to be going nowhere for about two years. Now, it's set to be financed and sold at the upcoming Cannes Film Market by Foresight Unlimited, whose owner Mark Damon was a friend of the late record executive's. Timberlake will also be co-hosting a private party for the film in Cannes.
Bogart, who died at age 39 of cancer, has been identified with the rise of disco by guiding the careers of acts like Donna Summer and The Village People. But he also signed other major artists, including KISS, T.Rex, Gladys Knight and Bill Withers. "Spinning Gold" is set to start shooting early next year.
Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards says he "cannot express the emptiness" he feels over the the death of country legend George Jones. The rocker also praises the Country Music Hall of Famer in his statement Thursday, calling him "one of the most individual singers of all time" who had "the most touching voice" and "the most expressive ways of projecting that beautiful instrument." Keith says George was "as country as it can get" but was "beyond any bag you want to put him in," and was "pure American music without ever waving a flag." Richards adds that you can "hear a million imitations on the radio every day -- but there was, and ever will be, only one George Jones." A public memorial for Jones took place in Nashville on Thursday.
Richards was among the artists Jones had personally invited to take part in his final Nashville concert. The all-star event was slated to take place in November. Jones died last Friday at the age of 81, just a couple of months into his year-long, career capping "Grand Tour."
The announcement follows Weir's stage collapse Thursday 5/1/13. During a Further show in Port Chester, New York Bob suddenly fell to the floor mid-song. After being helped to his feet, Bob finished the song seated in a chair. The entire band then left the stage, but Weir didn't return with them to resume the show. Two days later Further played in Atlantic City, New Jersey -- with Weir -- and RollingStone.com says Bob gave an energetic performance in what seemed to be an attempt to prove that he was fine.
The honors could continue rolling in for Rush. The newly inducted Rock and Roll Hall of Famers are nominees in multiple categories at tonight's "Revolver" Golden Gods Awards Show. Each of the band members have been recognized, with Alex Lifeson in the running for Best Guitarist, Neil Peart up for Best Drummer, and Geddy Lee vying for the Paul Gray Best Bassist honor. Deftones and Soundgarden are among the top contenders heading into the fan-voted event, while Motörhead's Lemmy Kilmister, Iron Maiden's Steve Harris, Newsted's Jason Newsted, Anthrax, and Aerosmith also have nods. In addition, Metallica is set to receive the Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award, while Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi is this year's recipient of the Riff Lord Award. Rob Zombie is the 2013 Golden God Award honoree.
ZZ Top is taking their show on the road.
ZZ Top U.S. Tour Dates
July 28 - Mountain View, California, at the Shoreline Amphitheater
July 31 - Wheatland, California, at the Sleep Train Amphitheater
August 1 - Costa Mesa, California, at the Pacific Amphitheater
August 3 - Englewood, Colorado, at Fiddler's Green Amphitheater
August 4 - Sturgis, South Dakota, at the Buffalo Chip Campground
August 6 - St. Paul, Minnesota, at The Myth
August 8 - Interlochen, Michigan, at the Kresge Auditorium
August 9, 10, & 11 - Clarkston, Michigan, at the DTE Energy Music Theater
August 24 - St. Louis, Missouri, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
August 25 - Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Klipsch Music Center
August 27 - Lewiston, New York, at the Artpark
August 28 - Cincinnati, Ohio, at the Riverbend Music Center
August 30 - Tinley Park, Illinois, at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater
September 4 - Startoga Springs, New York at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center
September 6 - Bethel, New York, at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
September 7 - Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, at the First Niagara Pavilion
September 10 - Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
September 11 - Vienna, Virginia, at the Wolf Trap-Filene4 Center
September 14 - Atlanta, Georgia, at Aaron's Amphitheater at Lakewood
September 15 - Tampa, Florida, at the Live Nation Amphitheater at the Florida State Fairgrounds
October 9 - Austin, Texas, at Austin City Limits Live
October 18 - Catoosa, Oklahoma, at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Jackson Browne is on the road.
Jackson Browne Tour Dates
June 13 - Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, at the Steel Bridge Festival
June 19 - Salt Lake City, Utah, at the Red Butte Garden - with Sara Watkins
June 21 - Aspen, Colorado, at the Jazz Aspen Snowmass - with Sara Watkins
June 23 - Telluride, Colorado, at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival - with Sara Watkins
June 25 - Des Moines, Iowa, at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines - with Sara Watkins
June 26 - Highland Park, Illinois, at the Ravinia Festival
June 28 - Columbus, Ohio, at the Palace Theater - with Sara Watkins
June 29 - Niagara Falls, New York, at the Seneca Niagara Casino Theater
July 1 - Lancaster, Pennsylvania, at the American Musical Theater - with Sara Watkins
July 2 - New Brunswick, New Jersey, at the State Theater - with Sara Watkins
July 4 - Lenox, Massachusetts, at Tanglewood - with Sara Watkins
July 5 - Atlantic City, New Jersey, at the Borgata - with Sara Watkins
July 6 - Atlantic City, New Jersey, at the Borgata
July 9 - Wallingford, Connecticut, at Toyota Presents the Oakdale Theater
July 20 - Detroit, Michigan, at Comercia Park - with Jimmy Buffett
Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young's upcoming live album won't be hitting stores this summer as originally planned. Graham Nash is putting together the project, which features highlights from CSN&Y's 1974 reunion tour. He tells ABC News Radio he has a couple of reasons for postponing the release until next year. Nash explains that he's having a hard time finishing the disc because those shows ran at least three hours, so there's a lot of material to comb through. And he keeps on finding gems he wants to include. Graham says he recently discovered a one-minute, ten-second Neil Young song about Richard Nixon that's "brilliant," and he "can't leave off." He adds that he expects the final track list to include close to 40 songs, but admits he's "still forming and shaping the album."
Nash also says it just seems right to wait until next year to put the album out, since 2014 will be the 40th anniversary of the trek. He's offered no specific release date for the still-untitled set, but says he expects it to arrive in the spring.
A Minnesota man could face charges after claiming to be a member of Pink Floyd to receive medical care. "The St. Cloud Times" says on April 20th Phillip Schaeffer checked in to St. Cloud Hospital as "David Gilmour," and said he had no insurance. He was treated and released, but hospital spokeswoman Jeanine Nistler says staff members weren't convinced they had really cared for the British rocker and flagged his file. She says the head of security then determined the man wasn't Gilmour after comparing hospital camera photos with online pictures of the rock star. When Schaeffer returned a few days later he again claimed to be Gilmour, saying he was seeking treatment during a break in Pink Floyd's Canadian tour. He finally gave up the charade when police arrived and took him into custody. Authorities are now considering filing felony theft charges, since Schaeffer received close to 100-thousand-dollars worth of medical services as Gilmour.
Fleetwood Mac made good on their promise to release a few new songs. The band unveiled the EP "Extended Play" Tuesday 4/30/13 via iTunes. The four-track collection includes the song "Sad Angel."
Lindsey Buckingham wrote "Sad Angel," along with the set's two other new tunes -- "It Takes Time" and "Miss Fantasy." Lindsey wrote the fourth track, "Without You," with Stevie Nicks. The song dates back to their pre-Fleetwood Mac days, when they worked together as the duo Buckingham Nicks. A post on Fleetwood Mac's website says the song had been "lost," but was "happily rediscovered when someone posted an early demo of it on YouTube." "Extended Play" is the first set of new Fleetwood Mac material since 2003's "Say You Will."
Frankie Valli is returning to acting. HollywoodReporter.com says the Four Seasons frontman has joined the cast of the upcoming film "And So It Goes." Rob Reiner is behind the comedy, which stars Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton. The film is about a man, played by Douglas, whose life changes when the granddaughter he never knew is left in his care. Valli has the part of a club owner. The singer doesn't have an extensive acting resume, but he has stepped in front of the cameras before. He had the recurring role of Rusty Millio on HBO's "The Sopranos." His other credits include a guest appearance on the TV series "Miami Vice" and a small role in the movie "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."
Foreigner's one-time frontman Lou Gramm's autobiography is in stores. In "Juke Box Hero: My Five Decades in Rock 'n' Roll" the singer is opening up about his life, giving an honest account of the highs and lows that came as the lead singer of one of rock's biggest bands. He also shares his personal struggles with addiction as well as his health challenges, including facing a life-threatening brain tumor. Later this week Gramm will head out on a tour in support of the book, which he's kicking off with a special event. He'll host "An Evening with Lou Gramm" at Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York on Saturday. For the special show the singer will treat the audience to stories from his life as well as an acoustic set. Gramm has several bookstore appearances set as well.
Lou Gramm Book Tour Dates
July 26 - Rochester, New York, at Frontier Field
KISS has added a few U.S. shows to their summer tour. After a three-week European tour and a month-long trek through Canada, the band will bring their "2013 Monster World Tour" back home. So far only four stops have been confirmed. KISS will take the stage at the Meadowbrook US Cellular Pavilion in Gilford, New Hampshire on August 7th, and follow with a performance at the Turning Stone Casino on Verona, New York on August 9th. The band will then head south for shows in Simpsonville, South Carolina and Orlando, Florida. Tickets for the U.S. shows go on sale Friday. KISS will launch their "2013 Monster World Tour" in Stockhom on June 1st.
KISS U.S. Tour Dates
August 7 - Gilford, New Hampshire, at the Meadowbrook US Cellular Pavilion
August 9 - Verona, New York, at the Turning Stone Casino
August 13 - Simpsonville, South Carolina, at the Charter Amphitheatre
August 16 - Orlando, Florida, at the Amway Arena
ZZ Top and Billy Idol will be turning in more than one set at this summer's Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. They're among the artists slated to play the Bonnaroo late night sets. They're part of a lineup that boasts a number of acts, including "Weird Al" Yankovic, R. Kelly, Animal Collective, and the Rock N' Soul Dance Party Superjam featuring John Oates, Larry Graham, thje Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and others. Paul McCartney, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Mumford And Sons, and Wilco are among this year's Bonnaroo headliners. The four-day event will take place in Manchester, Tennessee from June 13th through the 16. Additional details are available at Bonnaroo.com.
The surviving members of The Monkees are returning to the road. The group, consisting of Michael Nesmith, Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork, have announced the 24-date outing dubbed "A Midsummer's Night With The Monkees." The group reunited to tour last year following the death of member Davy Jones in February of 2012. Dolenz tells "Rolling Stone" the reaction to the last tour was "euphoric" and that it was "pretty apparent there was a demand for another one." Last year's outing marked The Monkees' first U.S. concert dates with Nesmith since he left the group in 1970. The next Monkees trek will kick off July 15th in Port Chester, New York. Tickets for the outing go on sale May 3rd.
Here are the dates for The Monkees upcoming tour:
7/15 Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
7/16 Citi Performing Arts Center, Boston, MA
7/17 Count Basie Theatre, Red Bank, NJ
7/19 NYCB Theatre at Westbury, Westbury, NY
7/20 Mann Music Theatre, Philadelphia, PA
7/21 Warner Theatre, Washington, D.C.
7/23 Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh, NC
7/24 Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
7/26 St. Augustine Amphitheatre, St. Augustine, FL
7/27 Mizner Park Amphitheatre, Boca Raton, FL
7/28 Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL
7/31 Long Center, Austin, TX
8/1 Arena Theatre, Houston, TX
8/2 Verizon Theatre, Grand Prairie, TX
8/3 Brady Theater, Tulsa, OK
8/5 Paramount Theatre, Denver, CO
8/9 Mesa Arts Center, Mesa, AZ
8/10 Green Valley Events Center, Henderson, NV
8/11 Humphreys, San Diego, CA
8/12 Terrace Theatre, Long Beach, CA
8/14 Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA
8/15 Uptown Theatre, Napa, CA
8/17 Benaroya Hall, Seattle, WA
8/18 Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland, OR
The two-part Eagles documentary is in stores. "History of the Eagles, Part 1" chronicles the band from their formation through their 1980 breakup, while "History of the Eagles, Part 2" covers the band members' solo careers and the group since their 1994 reunion. In addition to the film, the set is packaged with an eight-track disc featuring material shot during the Eagles' 1977 "Hotel California" tour. The film had its premiere earlier this year at Sundance, and the band will be touring in support of the project later this year. And the group is giving a nod to their past with their "History of the Eagles" tour, which will feature former band member Bernie Leadon. The Eagles tour will begin in Louisville, Kentucky on July 6th.
Greg Lake says it's probably good that the proposed collaboration between Emerson, Lake, and Palmer and Jimi Hendrix never happened. The guitarist tells BackstageAxxess.com his band had plans to team up with Jimi, and work under the name HELP. He says they were supposed to get together in late 1970, but Hendrix died before they were able to meet up. Lake admits it was "a big loss," but adds that he always had doubts about the pairing. He explains that it "would have been great for a couple of days," but believes if they had two virtuosos in the band -- Hendrix and keyboardist Keith Emerson -- it "would have soon melted down."
Lake also thinks that when he and Emerson worked with Cozy Powell, they shouldn't have used the ELP name. He says they brought Powell on board because he was "a great drummer," but some people still believe they picked him because of his last initial. Lake adds that with Powell "it wasn't the original ELP" but "a different band." Greg explains that it "wasn't the same chemistry," and "should have had a different name." Emerson and Lake enlisted Powell because original ELP drummer Carl Palmer wasn't available for a reunion.
The Rolling Stones are letting the fans in on their tour prep. The band played a surprise show at the Echoplex in Los Angeles Saturday night 4/27/13. Their set included the "Some Girls" track "Respectable."
The Stones' 12-song set also featured such classics as "Street Fighting Man," "Miss You," and "Start Me Up," while Mick Taylor sat in on "Love In Vain" and "Midnight Rambler." The band's two-song encore included "Brown Sugar" and "Jumpin' Jack Flash." The Rolling Stones will officially launch their "50 and Counting" tour at the Staples Center in L.A. on May 3rd.
The Rolling Stones' Echoplex Set List, April 27th, 2013
"You Got Me Rocking"
"Respectable"
"She's So Cold"
"Live With Me"
"Street Fighting Man"
"That's How Strong My Love Is"
"Little Queenie"
"Just My Imagination"
"Miss You"
"Love In Vain" (with Mick Taylor)
"Midnight Rambler" (with Mick Taylor)
"Start Me Up"
ENCORE
"Brown Sugar"
"Jumpin' Jack Flash"
Keith Richards' story is now being told in comic book form. Michael Lent and Brian McCarthy wrote "Keith Richards" for Bluewater Productions' "Orbit" line. Luis Chichón handled the book's illustrations, while Michael Szyksznian provided the cover art. Bluewater describes the famed Rolling Stones guitarist as a "guitar god, hell raiser, junkie-outlaw, and epic songwriting visionary," explaining that Keith "doesn't just play rock 'n' roll -- he invented it." The publisher adds that through the "uncensored comic book," fans will get to "see the demons that drove him from rags-to-rock riches." The "Keith Richards" comic is available now, both in stores and digitally. An iTunes exclusive release features different cover art.
Katherine Jackson's mutli-billion dollar lawsuit against concert promoters AEG Live over the death of her son, Michael Jackson, begins today. Katherine is suing AEG Live for 40-billion dollars, claiming the company is liable for Michael's death because they hired Dr. Conrad Murray to care for Michael as he geared up for his "This Is It" comeback concert series in 2009. Murray was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2011 for giving the pop star a deadly dose of sedatives. He is currently serving a four year prison sentence.
While AEG Live's attorneys claim that the pop star chose Murray as his personal doctor, lawyers for Jackson claim they have e-mail evidence showing that wasn't exactly the case. The e-mail in question reportedly shows a conversation between AEG Live co-CEO Paul Gongaware and the "This Is It" director Kenny Ortega. Just eleven days before Jackson's death, Gongaware pointed out to Ortega that AEG is paying Murray's salary, not Michael Jackson. Even if that was case, lawyers for the concert promoter also argue that Michael had a drug abuse problem well before he signed on with the company.
Jermaine Jackson's child support issues seems to have continued into 2013. According to "TMZ," the Jackson brother is in trouble with the Los Angeles Child Support Services Department, who have filed legal documents holding the star in contempt for not coming through on his fatherly obligations. Jermaine was reportedly ordered to pay three-thousand dollars per month to the mother of his two teenage sons, Alejandra Jackson -- but was about 30-thousand dollars short for the year of April 2012 to April 2013. Child Support Services says he is guilty of twelve counts of contempt, one for each month he came up short. He could be sentences to 60 days in prison if the remaining portion of his child support isn't paid by August.
Jermaine was in a similar spot back in 2011 as well, when he settled with Alejanda for 80-thousand dollars after he owed her 90-thousand dollars in child support.
Billy Joel is providing one of the highlights to the first weekend of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. RollingStone.com says the rocker launched his nearly two-hour set Saturday with "Movin' "Out," and had the crowd "totally captivated" throughout the show. In his intro for "Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out On Broadway)," Joel drew a parallel between Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans in 2005, and last fall's Hurricane Sandy that hit New York. He also paid tribute to those affected by the Boston Marathon bombings, dedicating the song "The Downeaster Alexa" to the city. Joel tossed in some local flavor as well, performing "Root Beer Rag" and welcoming the Preservation Hall Jazz Band to join him on "Scenes From An Italian Restaurant." Jazzfest was the second of only two shows Joel has booked so far this year, and could be one of his last. He's said he'll be using these shows to determine whether or not he'll continue with his performing career.
Dr. John and Earth, Wind, and Fire were also among those scheduled to play the first weekend of Jazzfest, which wrapped up on Sunday. The event, taking place at the New Orleans Fair Grounds, will resume on Thursday with Patti Smith among the headliners. Fleetwood Mac, Hall & Oates, Los Lobos, and Aaron Neville are among the many performers slated for the festival's second weekend, which, which runs through May 5th.
Joe Satriani has added North America to his 2013 tour. The guitarist has announced 15 shows throughout the U.S. in the late summer and fall. The trek will follow Joe's extensive run in Europe, which he'll kick off later this month in Turkey. Satrini's band for his U.S. shows will include bassist Bryan Beller, keyboardist Mike Keneally, and drummer Marco Minnemann. Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse is also on board as the opener for all but the tour's final stop in Oak land, California on October 26th.
Satriani is hitting the road in support of his new album, "Unstoppable Momentum," featuring the single "A Door Into Summer." Joe recently unveiled a video to the instrumental via RollingStone.com. The disc will be in stores on May 7th.
Joe Satriani North American Tour Dates
August 29 - San Diego, California, at the Balboa Theatre
August 30 - Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palm Springs
August 31 - Los Angeles, California, at the Orpheum Theatre
September 1 - Scottsdale, Arizona, at the Talking Stick Resort Ballroom
September 2 - Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the Kiva Auditorium
September 4 - Denver, Colorado, at the Historic Paramount Theatre
September 5 - Midland, Texas, at the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center
September 6 - Grand Prairie, Texas, at the Verizon Theatre at Grand Prarie
September 7 - Houston, Texas, at the House of Blues
September 8 - Austin, Texas, at the Austin City Limits - Moody Theater
September 25 - Washington, DC, at The Warner Theatre
September 26 - New York, New York, at the Beacon Theatre
September 27 - Boston, Massachusetts, at the Orpheum Theatre
September 28 - Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, at the Tower Theatre
October 26 - Oakland, California, at the Fox Theater
James Taylor is among the many artists recalling the influence the late country star George Jones had on his work. He calls Jones "a real innovator and one of the most remarkable American singers anywhere." Taylor tells Billboard.com he wrote 1977's "Bartender's Blues" both "as a tribute to him and with him in mind," admitting "it was definitely 100-percent George Jones" he was trying to capture in the song. A year later Jones covered the song, and in 1979 Taylor was invited to add his vocals to Jones' version for Jones' duets album, "My Very Special Guests." James says it's "sort of an amazing turn of events that he would cover a song that had been so much informed by him in the first place." He adds that it "was great" to put his vocals on Jones' track.
The Rolling Stones' Keith Richards is another star outside the country music arena who holds Jones in high regard. While the rocker hadn't been officially announced for Jones' planned all-star concert event later this year, the Possum wanted him on board -- and Keith intended to come. Nashville's "Tennessean" has obtained Richards' hand-written acceptance to the November show. In his letter Keith called it "a real honor" to be invited, and added that he'd "be there by hook or by crook." The November concert was intended to be Jones' final Nashville performance. The 81-year-old country legend died at a Nashville hospital last Friday.
While "Time" marks Rod Stewart's return as a songwriter, the rocker says he didn't pen every song on the album. The disc includes a cover of Tom Waits' "Picture in a Frame," which Rod admits is special to him. He tells Billboard.com that he and his current wife Penny Lancaster split up for time early in their relationship. Stewart recalls that as they were separating he asked her for a photograph, which he put in a frame at the side of his bed. He says that "as a result, that song has a lot of meaning" for them. Rod adds that he has a great deal of admiration for Waits. He says Tom's material "has such great imagery," which is something he feels he could "do a bit better." Stewart has also had a lot of success with Waits songs. Rod says his version of "Downtown Train" "bought Tom Waits a swimming pool," and "Picture in a Frame" will "pay for a new roof on his house."
Stewart's "Time" also features the single "She Makes Me Happy." The album will be in stores on May 7th.
The Eagles' Glenn Frey is sharing his dislike for TV singing competitions like "American Idol" and "The X Factor." HollywoodReporter.com says the rocker feels the producers have the contestants "over sing" the material during their performances," while he'd "just as soon somebody just stood there and sing." While he says it's not necessarily "wrong," it's not something he likes. Frey adds that these shows provide the finalists who don't continue on with successful music careers "the chance to tick a box off in their lives to say they were a singer for a year." He also says he's glad the shows aren't making huge promises to the singers who compete on the shows.
Here are the dates for Black Sabbath's North American tour:
DATE CITY VENUE
+Thu- Jul 25 Houston, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
+Sat-Jul 27 Austin, TX Frank Erwin Center
+Wed-Jul 31 W. Palm Beach, FL Cruzan Amphitheatre
~Fri-Aug 02 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live
*Sun-Aug 04 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center
+Tue-Aug 06 Detroit, MI DTE Energy Music Theatre
+Thu-Aug 08 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena
+Sat-Aug 10 Philadelphia, PA Wells Fargo Center
^Mon-Aug 12 Boston, MA Comcast Center
*Wed-Aug 14 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
+Fri Aug 16 Tinley Park, IL First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
+Sun-Aug 18 Indianapolis, IN Klipsch Music Center
+Thu-Aug 22 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena
*Sat-Aug 24 Seattle, WA Gorge Amphitheatre
+Mon-Aug 26 San Francisco, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre at Mountain View
+Wed-Aug 28 Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
+Fri-Aug 30 Phoenix, AZ US Airways Center
+Sun-Sep 01 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena
*Tue-Sep 03 Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles Sports Arena
*Previously announced date.
^On sale Friday, May 3
+On sale Saturday, May 4
~On sale, Friday May 10
Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi will be in Washington, DC this weekend. The rocker is among the celebrities who are going to the annual White House Correspondents' Association Dinner. Bon Jovi is attending as a guest of "The Huffington Post," along with NBA great Shaquille O'Neal. Late night host Conan O'Brien is hosting Saturday's event, which brings politicos and celebrities together for a night of laughs and scholarships for aspiring journalists. This year's guest list also includes actress and once-pondering Senate candidate Ashley Judd as the guest of "USA Today"; Oscar winner Nicole Kidman and movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, who are attending with the "Daily Beast" and "Newsweek"; and cast members from "Modern Family," "Nashville" and "Scandal," who will be seated with reps from their home network at ABC.
C-Span will provide red carpet coverage of Saturday's White House Correspondents' Association Dinner, starting at 6:30 pm Eastern, followed by coverage of the dinner program. MSNBC will also carry the dinner live
Bruce Springsteen has a new job. The rocker is among the 198 new members voted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. The prestigious honorary society draws members from all fields, and provides policy research into a variety of areas including art, culture, education, technology, energy, and global security. Folk legend Pete Seeger, Herbie Hancock, and actors Robert De Niro and Sally Field are joining Springsteen as newly elected members. Filmmaker Albert Maysles, whose credits include the 1968 documentary "Monterey Pop" and 1970's "Gimme Shelter," about the Rolling Stones' ill-fated Altamont concert, has also been added to the society. The list of new members also includes opera star Rennée Fleming, Senator Richard Lugar, and former astronaut and Senator John Glenn.
Academy President Leslie Berlowitz says being tapped for membership "honors individual accomplishment and calls upon members to serve the public good." She adds that the Academy is looking forward to "drawing on the knowledge and expertise of these distinguished men and women to advance solutions to the pressing policy challenges of the day." Springsteen and the new members will be officially welcomed into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences with a ceremony in Cambridge, Massachusetts on October 12th.
Elton John is demonstrating the high regard he has for Lady Gaga. On Thursday's "Extra," he and husband David Furnish said they asked Gaga to be the godmother of their new son Elijah, who they welcomed in January. The pop star is also the godmother of their first child, two-year-old Zachary. John called Gaga "a great role model," adding that he's sure she will help their sons in the years to come, when they'll have to deal with living in the spotlight. He said, "We're all bonkers in this business, but we're human beings at the same time."
David Bowie may be putting together another music video with another award- caliber movie star. The U.K.'s "Daily Mail" says the rock icon was spotted in New York City, supposedly filming the clip with Gary Oldman. Both Brits were seen wearing religiously-themed outfits, with Bowie looking like a monk and Oldman dressing like a priest. There's no word yet as to what track from the Thin White Duke's comeback album "The Next Day" will accompany the visuals. If the alleged video does actually come out, it will be the follow-up to "The Stars (Are Out Tonight)." In that video, Oscar-winner Tilda Swinton served as Bowie's co-star.
Meanwhile, Bowie has also issued his first statement -- of sorts -- about "The Next Day." "Rolling Stone" says "The Rumpus" writer Rick Moody asked the rocker to put together a "work flow diagram" for the album, and Bowie responded with a list of 42 words including effigies, indulgences, vampyric, osmosis, text, tragic, mystification and others. Moody then used those words to write an extensive evaluation of "The Next Day," which fans can read now at TheRumpus.net.
Dr. John is among the many stars who'll be on hand to launch this year's New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. The annual two-weekend event gets under way Friday. Dr. John is schedule to take the Acura Stage prior to John Mayer's set. George Benson and Band of Horses are among the other opening night headliners. The music will continue throughout the weekend. Billy Joel is one of the headliners for Saturday, while Earth Wind, and Fire will help wrap up the first weekend on Sunday. Prior to their performance, Earth, Wind, and Fire's Phillip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson will also take part in a special interview session on the Allison Miner Music Heritage Stage.
Fleetwood Mac, Los Lobos, Patti Smith, and Hall & Oates will be featured during Jazzfest's second weekend, which begins on May 2nd. But this year the event is breaking from tradition, and won't be featuring a closing set from the Neville Brothers. Instead, the Nevilles -- without Aaron Neville -- will perform on Sunday. Aaron will provide the finale with his solo band on May 5th. The 44th annual Jazz Fest takes place at the New Orleans Fair Grounds. Additional information, including the full schedule of performers, is available at www.nojazzfest.com.
The Eagles' Glenn Frey admits he finds it "somewhat confounding" that his group is still in demand. At a London press conference Thursday 4/15/13 prior to the UK premier of the band's documentary, "History Of The Eagles Part 1," the rocker said it "doesn't seem to end" for them, and called it "amazing" that people still want to see the Eagles in concert. He recalled a recent show in Las Vegas, and said he "had to laugh" because "the audience was rabid." Frey added that with such a loyal and dedicated following, the group has to "keep figuring out ways to keep it a little bit interesting" -- for both the fans and themselves.
The Eagles will be returning to the road this summer. Glenn echoed comments Don Henley has made, saying their upcoming tour "very well could be" their last. He said they'll be starting rehearsals for the trek next month. The Eagles will launch their trek in Louisville, Kentucky on July 6th.
Deep Purple has the public's support for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The British group, which is perhaps best known for the 1973 hit "Smoke on the Water," is leading a "Rolling Stone" Readers' Poll on which artists should become the Rock Hall's Class of 2014. The Smiths are taking second place on the list, followed by KISS. Prog rock pioneers Yes and The Moody Blues round out the top five. Cheap Trick, which has sixth place, and the late Warren Zevon, who ranks seventh. haven't ever appeared on a Rock Hall ballot despite being eligible for induction for at least ten years. The late Gram Parsons, who wasn't inducted with The Byrds in 1991, has the number eight spot. Chicago, another longtime-eligible band that has yet to appear on a ballot, is coming in at number nine. Nirvana, who is just becoming eligible in 2014, rounds out the list.
"Rolling Stone" Readers' Poll list for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2014
1. Deep Purple
2. The Smiths
3. KISS
4. Yes
5. The Moody Blues
6. Cheap Trick
7. Warren Zevon
8. Gram Parsons
9. Chicago
10. Nirvana
Record Store Day continued to help independent record stores stoke the return of music on vinyl. According to Billboard.biz and Nielsen SoundScan, mom and pop shops around the country sold 200-thousand vinyl LPs during the last tracking week, which ended Sunday and included this year's Record Store Day on Saturday. That's a 36-percent increase compared to last year. And when the independents' sales are combined with all other vinyl sales last week, the total reaches 244-thousand, which sets a new record for the biggest one-week sum for vinyl albums since SoundScan started tracking sales in 1991.
But the windfall isn't just lining Diamond's pockets. Neil has promised to donate royalties from the recent "Sweet Caroline" sales to the charity supporting victims of the Boston Marathon bombing.
Parliament-Funkadelic has lost their longtime bassist. Billboard.com says Cordell "Boogie" Mosson died last Thursday. While details surrounding his death haven't been revealed, Mosson had been very ill last year. A Facebook post from the band last July said Cordell had been hospitalized in "serious condition." P-Funk keyboardist Danny Bedrosian is remembering "Boog" as " the ultimate FUNK theologian." He praises his former bandmate as an invaluable resource, explaining that with Mosson's death "we lost more information, lessons, and vast rare funk knowledge" than "most learn in a lifetime." Cordell began his association with Parliament-Funkadelic founder George Clinton in 1971. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Parliament-Funkadelic in 1997.
Greg Kihn is expanding on his literary career. The rocker has tapped The Beatles for inspiration for his fifth novel, "Rubber Soul." He says he got the idea for the book from interviews he did with surviving Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Star, John Lennon's widow Yoko Ono, George Harrison's first wife, Pattie Boyd, and former Beatles drummer Pete Best. Kihn explains that he "asked where the Beatles got their records, and their answers inspired the central character, Dust Bin Bob, and this novel." In "Rubber Soul," "Dust Bin" Bobby Dingle meets the future Fab Four while working at a Liverpool flea market. Bob becomes an insider as The Beatles grow from a hometown phenomena to an international sensation. Bob ends up saving The Beatles by foiling an assassination plot hatched by loyalists to Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos.
A publisher's press release says Kihn's fictional book includes "historical details that are 100-percent accurate," so such an incident "could have happened." Kihn's "Rubber Soul" will hit stores on September 3rd.
Steven Van Zandt is spearheading a new way to bring music back into the classroom. His Rock & Roll Foundation has teamed up with the Grammy Museum to create a new curriculum for middle and high school students that teaches kids about the roots of rock music as well as the ways it impacts and reflects society. The E Street Band guitarist tells "Rolling Stone" that instead of telling kids to "take that iPod out of your ear and pay attention," students are invited to share what they're listening to and then "trace it back and talk about it." He explains that "what that forms is an immediate common ground and immediate engagement." Van Zandt introduced "Rock & Roll: An American Story" at an event at New York University on Wednesday. NYU will also host a training program for teachers. Organizers will be launching "RRAAS" this fall.
Aerosmith's Steven Tyler is using his voice for something a little different. The rocker is part of the cast of the upcoming animated feature "Epic." In a new promo for the film, Tyler admits the project fulfills a longtime dream. Tyler has the part of the caterpillar Nim Galuu. His character is described on the film's website as "the consummate party animal" whose "wisdom and practical know-how make him a key behind-the-scenes player in the epic battle to save the forest." The three-D "Epic" tells the story of a teenage girl who is "magically transported" into a "fantastical world unlike any other," where a battle is waging between "the forces of good" and "the forces of evil." Beyonce Knowles and Colin Farrell star in "Epic," which will open in theaters on May 30th.
Edie Brickell is taking her music in a decidedly bluegrass direction. The singer-songwriter who came to fame in the '80s as the frontwoman for New Bohemians has teamed up on a new album with actor-comedian Steve Martin. Edie tells CBS' "Late Show with David Letterman" that she initiated the collaboration. But she admits she wasn't sure if Martin was serious at first when he agreed. Martin and Brickell described their songwriting process, explaining that Edie would put words to Steve's banjo music. Edie is the primary vocalist on the album, although Steve chimes in for one duet. But Martin says he was happy to let Edie do the singing, "because she's great at it." Martin and Brickell also took the stage to perform "When You Get To Asheville." The song is on their album "Love Has Come For You," which is in stores now.
Mick Jagger is already well into his tour prep routine. The Rolling Stones frontman tells CBS New York he starts getting ready two months in advance, explaining that he has to "up" his fitness level and "start singing every day, doing practices and a bit of dancing." He also admits that he'll "practice in front of mirrors" in a dance studio when he can. Drummer Charlie Watts adds that the band will rehearse for six weeks before hitting the road. He explains that they have to be ready with "twice as many numbers" than they'd need to fill their show, and "to be twice as fit as you need to be." Guitarist Ron Wood admits there's "so much to get ready" if they want their trek "to go with as least hitches as possible."
The Rolling Stones will kick off the 2013 edition of their "50 and Counting" trek next month, and they've finally confirmed just when they'll start the tour. After announcing a tentative launch date of May 2nd, the band is now saying they'll play their first show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on May 3rd. Tickets for the May 2nd show will be honored at the door. Uncertainties with the NBA playoff schedule forced the band to be flexible with the date.
Neil Young and Leon Russell are helping Willie Nelson celebrate his birthday. The rockers recently took part in a taping of a special episode of "CMT Crossroads" which honors the country legend. Sheryl Crow and Norah Jones also participated in the show, along with country stars Jamey Johnson and Ashley Monroel. Former White Stripes frontman Jack White hosted the concert at his Third Man Records studio in Nashville. Willie turns 80 at the end of the month, but the premiere of "CMT Crossroads: Willie Nelson & Friends From Third Man Records" is slated for June.
Young is also among the stars taking part in a special video campaign to mark Nelson's birthday. Carlos Santana, Judas Priest's Rob Halford, and Sharon Osboune have posted clips expressing their birthday wishes. Details on how to submit a clip are posted on Nelson's website.
Neil Diamond says he's written a new song inspired in part by last week's Boston Marathon tragedy. The legendary singer-songwriter tells "Rolling Stone" he was "obviously affected" by the bombing, so he's "writing about it" as a form of self-expression. But Neil adds that his song encompasses more than the Marathon blast, and also includes his reflections on such tragedies as the Aurora, Colorado theater shooting and the Newtown, Connecticut school shooting. Diamond says it's "like an infestation," and that he's "writing about the general situation" and "what we're going through with all of these tragedies."
Diamond adds that he's hoping to have the song ready for release soon. He says he's now recording the track, and "with a little bit of help from the man upstairs" he'll "have it finished by the weekend." But Diamond doesn't say when or how he'll put out the untitled song.
Styx, REO Speedwagon, and Ted Nugent are helping out in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing. The rockers, who are on the road together on their "Midwest Rock 'n' Roll Express" tour, are raising money for the victims via Styx's "Rock to the Rescue" charity. At upcoming tour stops Styx's organization will give away hold fundraising raffles featuring a guitar autographed by all the bands. Three-quarters of the proceeds from the raffle will go to a Boston-area charity supporting victims of the blast, while the other 25-percent will go to organizations in the communities hosting the shows. Styx, REO, and Nugent will be perfoming at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts Tuesday night. "The Republican" newspaper says the venue has made a limited number of tickets available through Ticketmaster.com that are supporting The One Fund Boston.
Folk legend Richie Havens has died. A rep for Havens says the singer-songwriter passed away Monday. He was 72. The Brooklyn-born musician is remembered for opening the 1969 Woodstock Festival with a nearly three-hour performance that included his improvisation of the spiritual "Motherless Child," which became the song "Freedom." Havens dabbled in acting in the 1970s, appearing in the stage presentation of The Who's "Tommy" and as Othello in the 1974 film "Catch My Soul." "Greased Lightning," with Richard Pryor and "Hearts of Fire" with fellow folk legend Bob Dylan are also among this credits. Havens also recorded slogans for CBS and ABC and commercials for Amtrak and Maxwell House Coffee. "The Fabric of Our Lives" theme for the cotton industry is among his most recognizable commercial recordings.
Havens performed at the inauguration for President Bill Clinton in 1993 and has received numerous honors over the years, including an induction into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame. The singer and guitarist announced last year that he would stop touring after 45 years due to health setbacks brought on from complications related to kidney surgery.
Bruce Springsteen and Madonna are among the nominees heading into the 2013 Billboard Music Awards. The Boss has bids in two categories, including Top Rock Artist and Top Touring Artist. Touring Artist is one of three awards Madonna is vying for. She's also in the running for Top Dance Artist and Top Dance Album with "MDNA." Roger Waters and Lionel Richie could capture awards at the event as well. Rogers is among Springsteen and Madonna's competition for the touring award. Richie has a nomination for Top Country Album with his chart-topping country duets disc, "Tuskegee." Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, and fun. lead the lineup of hopefuls with eleven nominations each. The 2013 Billboard Music Awards will be presented in a ceremony in Las Vegas, and air live on ABC on May 19ith.
Select categories for the 2013 Billboard Music Awards
Top Rock Artist
Coldplay
Fun.
Gotye
Mumford & Sons
Bruce Springsteen
Top Touring Artist
Coldplay
Lady Gaga
Madonna
Bruce Springsteen
Roger Waters
Dance Artist
David Guetta
Calvin Harris
Madonna
Skrillex
Swedish House Mafia
Top Dance Album
David Guetta, "Nothing but the Beat"
Deadmau5, "Album Title Goes Here"
LMFAO), "Sorry for Party Rocking"
Madonna, "MDNA"
Skrillex, "Bangarang"
Top Country Album
Jason Aldean, "Night Train"
Luke Bryan, "Tailgates & Tanlines"
Lionel Richie, "Tuskegee"
Taylor Swift, "Red"
Carrie Underwood, "Blown Away"
Olivia Newton-John is making adjustments to her schedule after learning that a member of her family has cancer. The singer says her sister Rona Newton-John has been diagnosed with brain cancer, which has led her to postpone her proposed Las Vegas residency. Olivia, who has successfully battled breast cancer, says in a statement that she's "very aware of the importance of love, support and family during this journey" Rona is beginning, and she intends to be there as Rona battles her illness. "The Las Vegas Sun" says Olivia was expected to announce her Vegas engagement later this month. She was reportedly planning to launch a show at The Flamingo that would be staged during breaks in Donny and Marie Osmond's schedule.
Bob Dylan will launch the Americanarama Festival of Music Tour in West Palm Beach, Florida on June 26th. The folk-rock legend is hitting the road with Wilco and My Morning Jacket on the 26-date trek. The Richard Thompson Electric Trio will come on board a few dates into the tour, starting their nine-show run in Memphis on July 2nd. Ryan Bingham will take over when the trek hits Darien Center, New York on July 18th. He'll remain with the tour through the finale in Mountain View, California on August 4th. Tickets go on sale Wednesday.
Dylan is touring behind his most recent album, "Tempest." He's currently on his spring tour with the folk-rock group Dawes. They'll be performing in St. Louis, Missouri Tuesday night.
Americanarama Festival of Music tour dates:
6/26 -- West Palm Beach, FL -- Cruzan Amphitheatre
6/27 -- Tampa, FL -- Live Nation Amphitheatre
6/29 -- Atlanta, GA -- Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood
6/30 -- Nashville, TN -- The Lawn at Riverfront Park
7/2 -- Memphis, TN -- AutoZone Park
7/5 -- Noblesville, IN -- Klipsch Music Center
7/6 -- Cincinnati, OH -- Riverbend Music Center
7/7 -- Columbus, OH -- Nationwide Arena
7/10 -- St. Paul, MN -- Midway Stadium
7/11 -- Peoria, IL -- Chiefs Stadium
7/12 -- Chicago, IL -- Toyota Park
7/14 -- Clarkston, MI -- DTE Energy Music Theatre
7/15 -- Toronto, ON -- Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
7/18 -- Darien Center, NY -- Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
7/19 -- Bridgeport, CT -- The Ballpark at Harbor Yard
7/20 -- Mansfield, MA -- Comcast Center
7/21 -- Saratoga Springs, NY -- Saratoga Performing Arts Center
7/23 -- Columbia, MD -- Merriweather Post Pavilion
7/24 -- Virginia Beach, VA -- Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach
7/26 -- Hoboken, NJ -- Pier A Park
7/27 -- Wantagh, NY -- Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
7/28 -- Camden, NJ -- Susquehanna Bank Center
7/31 -- Denver, CO -- Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre
8/1 -- Salt Lake City, UT -- USANA Amphitheatre
8/3 -- Irvine, CA -- Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
8/4 -- Mountain View, CA -- Shoreline Amphitheatre
Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters are hitting the road. The Led Zeppelin frontman is taking his new band on tour in the U.S., starting June 20th in Dallas. Plant's Sensational Space Shifters performed their first show together last May in England and recently visited Australia and New Zealand for a string of shows Down Under. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals are expected to pop up on Plant's tour stops in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Berkeley. Here are the confirmed dates for the outing:
June 20: Palladium, Dallas
June 21: Bayou Music Center, Houston
June 23: Moody Theater, Austin
June 26: Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles
June 28: County Bowl, Santa Barbara, Calif.
June 29: Berkeley Greek, Berkeley, Calif.
July 2: Britt Festival, Jacksonville, Ore.
July 4: High Sierra Festival, Quincy, Calif.
July 6: Jambase Festival, George, Wash.
July 7: Portland Blues Festival, Portland, Ore.
July 10: Red Rocks, Morrison, Colo.
July 12: Grant Park, Chicago
July 13: Live In the Garden, Memphis
July 14: Forecastle Festival, Louisville
July 17: Mahalia Jackson Theater, New Orleans
July 19: Verizon Amphitheatre, Atlanta
July 20: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary, N.C.
July 22: Wolftrap, Vienna, Va.
July 24: Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, Conn.
July 25: B of A Pavilion, Boston
July 27: Prospect Park, Brooklyn
The Allman Brothers Band is planning to hit the road on a short, late summer tour. The group has a dozen dates booked following their second annual Peach Music Festival. The two-day event is set for Scranton, Pennsylvania on August 16th and 17th. The Allmans will follow with a two-night stand in Chicago on August 20th and 21st. The band will then hook up with Steve Winwood for their next six dates. They'll wrap up the trek with for shows in September with with Grace Potter & The Nocturnals. Tickets for select shows go on sale this Friday. Details are available at AllmanBrothersBand.com.
Allman Brothers Band Tour Dates
August 16 & 17 - Scranton, Pennsylvania, at the Peach Music Festival at Montage Mountain
August 20 & 21 - Chicago, Illinois, at the Chicago Theatre
August 23 - Darien Center, New York, at the Darien Lakes Performing Arts Center - with Steve Winwood
August 24 - Hartford, Connecticut, at the Comcast Theatre - with Steve Winwood
August 27 - Gilford, New Hampshire, at the Meadowbrook - with Steve Winwood
August 28 - Saratoga Springs, New York, at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center - with Steve Winwood
August 30 - Raleigh, North Carolina, at the Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion - with Steve Winwood
August 1 - Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - with Steve Winwood
September 2 - Alpharetta, Georgia, at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater at Encore Park - Grace Potter & The Nocturnals 5/10
September 4 - Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the Farm Bureau Live - with Grace Potter & The Nocturnals
September 6 - Mansfield, Massachusetts, at the Comcast Center - with Grace Potter & The Nocturnals
September 7 - Wantagh, New York, at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater - with Grace Potter & The Nocturnals
Rush is back on the road. Following their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction and a win at Canada's Juno Awards, the trio is launching their 2013 "Clockwork Angels" trek. The Canadian band is getting the tour started with a short U.S. run, starting tonight in Austin, Texas. They'll play nine shows before heading overseas. Rush will kick off their European trek in Manchester, England on May 22nd. The group will then return to these shores for another 17 dates, which begin in Hershey, Pennsylvania on June 21st. The stops include a July 4th appearance at Milwaukee, Wisconsin's Summerfest. Rush will also visit Grand Rapids, Michigan on June 30th and Halifax, Nova Scotia on July 12th, marking their first shows in those cities in more than a decade.
Rush North American Tour Dates
June 21 - Hershey, Pennsylvania, at the Giant Center
June 23 - Wantagh, New York, at the Nikon At Jones Beach Theater
June 25 - Saratoga, New York at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center
June 28 - Chicago, Illinois, at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheater
June 30 - Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the Van Andel Arena
July 2 - Cincinnati, Ohio, at the Riverbend Music Center
July 4 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at Summerfest
July 6 - Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, at Copps Coliseum
July 8 - Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, at the Lebreton Flats
July 10 - Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, at the Festival d'ete
July 12 & 14 - Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, at the Halifax Metro Center
July 24 - Calgary, Alberta, Canada, at the Scotiabank Saddledome
July 26 - Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, at the Pepsi Live at Rogers Arena
July 28 - Portland, Oregon, at the Sleep Country Amphitheater
July 31 - Salt Lake City, Utah, at the USANA Amphitheater
August 2 - Denver, Colorado, at the Pepsi Center
August 4 - Kansas City, Missouri, at the Sprint Center
Jeff Lynne isn't opposed to digital audio technology. The Electric Light Orchestra leader tells UltimateClassicRock.com he loves it "ever so much," and it's something he wishes he "could have had from the start." But the rocker admits he still works on his analog equipment. He explains that he made "a big painstaking effort" to get a "thick and old-fashioned" sound as he's worked on his ELO reissue project. But Lynne adds that it's "not meant to be super duper hi-fi, it's just meant to have more punch," which he believes comes out on the re-releases. Lynne's revamped versions of ELO's "Zoom" and "Electric Light Orchestra Live" as well as his 1990 solo disc "Armchair Theatre" arrive in stores today.
Goudreau was in Boston in the late '70s, and played on the band's first two albums before officially leaving in 1981. Scholz says Barry only made minimal contributions to the albums, but agreed to give him 20-percent of the discs' royalties. Tom also says he agreed to let Barry to bill himself as "formerly of Boston," but he's used such phrases as "Barry Goudreau from Boston," "Barry Goudreau of the Multi-Platinum Group Boston," and "Barry Goudreau Lead Guitarist Rock Legend from the Band Boston" in promoting himself. Scholz says he's suffered financially as a result of Goudreau's acts. With the lawsuit he's trying to end the 20-percent royalty agreement, and block Goudreau from implying that he's still associated with the band.
Barbra Streisand is being honored for her work in the movie industry. The singer and actress is this year's recipient of the Film Society of Lincoln Center's Chaplin Award, in recognition of her accomplishments on both sides of the camera. Former President Bill Clinton will be on hand to make the presentation to Barbra at the 40th Annual Chaplin Award Gala, taking place in New York City Monday night 4/22/13. Tony Bennett, Wynton Marsalis, and Liza Minnelli are slated to perform in Streisand's honor, while Kris Kristofferson -- who played opposite Barbra in "A Star Is Born" -- is among those expected to speak at the event.
Streisand has achieved a number of milestones in cinema. With 1983's Yentl," she became the first American woman to direct, co-write, co-produce, and star in a major motion picture. Barbra was the first female film director to receive a Kennedy Center Honor. She's the only person to ever win an Oscar, Emmy, Golden Globe, Tony, and Grammy award, as well as Directors Guild of America and Peabody Awards. Streisand is also a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, France's Legion d'honneur, and the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2013 is expressing their appreciation. In his acceptance, the night's first inductee Randy Newman admitted he wasn't sure if his window of opportunity had passed, and the honor had eluded him.
Heart's Nancy WIlson called her band's induction "tremendously beautiful," while Rush drummer Neil Peart admitted that getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was more of a "big deal" than he and his bandmates originally thought. The late Donna Summer's husband accepted on behalf of the Queen of Disco, and recalled how humble grounded the singer was. Other members of the Class of 2013 include Public Enemy, Quincy Jones, blues great Albert King, and record producer Lou Adler. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place in Los Angeles . The event will air as an HBO special on May 18th.
Steven Van Zandt describes "The Rascals: Once Upon A Dream" as "'Jersey Boys' if the Four Seasons were really in the show." The E Street Band guitarist is behind the reunited band's new multimedia concert production, which tells The Rascals' story in the context of the '60s. But Steven says the show isn't just a platform for aging rockers to relive their glory days. He tells the New Jersey "Star-Ledger" that "people are going to be surprised by how great the band still is." Van Zandt adds that the set list extends "way beyond the hits" to showcase the depth of the group, and he believes "even old fans who think they know The Rascals are going to realize there's so much more to be learned." The rocker also thinks audience members just might walk away with new insights. He explains that the show "goes beyond The Rascals' music and into what The Rascals represent," so "you learn about the '60s, and maybe you learn a little bit about yourself as well."
"The Rascals: Once Upon A Dream" launched a limited engagement at the Richard Rodgers Theater in New York last week. Broadway.com says Van Zandt's "Boss," Bruce Springsteen, was among the stars seen at the opening night after-party at Sardi's. "The Rascals: Once Upon A Dream" continues its run with ten more performances before closing on May 5th.
Behind McCartney, the overall list also includes composer and producer Andrew Lloyd Webber at number two with 520 million pounds, or 954-million-dollars; Irish rockers U2 at number three with a converted estimate worth of 800-million-dollars; Elton John is fourth with 369-million-dollars; and Rolling Stone frontman Mick Jagger rounds out the top five with an estimated 307-million-dollar net worth.
Allman Brothers Band guitarist Warren Haynes is paying homage to Jerry Garcia. According to JerryGarcia.com, Haynes is joining forces with symphonies around the country for the upcoming Jerrry Garcia Symphonic Celebration tour. The tour is set to kick off on June 18th in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Haynes will also make stops in Massachusetts, Virginia and California. On August 1st -- which would have been Garcia's 71st birthday -- the tour stops in Garcia's hometown of San Francisco, California. The tribute to the Grateful Dead frontman will wrap up a few days later on August 4th in Los Angeles. For ticket information check out JerryGarcia.com.
Check out the dates for the Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration:
6/18 -- Pittsburgh, PA -- Heinz Hall
6/20 -- Raleigh, NC -- Red Hat Amphitheater
6/22 -- Lenox, MA -- Tanglewood Music Center
6/25 -- Philadelphia, PA -- The Mann Center for the Performing Arts
6/26 -- Vienna, VA -- Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
7/30 -- Morrison, CO -- Red Rocks Amphitheater
8/1 -- San Francisco, CA -- Davies Symphony Hall
8/2 -- San Francisco, CA -- Davies Symphony Hall
8/4 -- Los Angeles, CA -- Greek Theatre
Eric Clapton's two-day Crossroads Guitar Festival kicks off tonight in New York City. Clapton will reportedly join many of his guests for performances, and share the stage with the Allman Brothers Band, who are the opening night headliner. Clapton will cap off the festival with his own headlining set on the second night. Jeff Beck, Robbie Robertson, Jimmie Vaughan, Booker T, and John Mayer are among the dozens of stars slated to take part in the Crossroads Guitar Festival, which will serve as the finale of Clapton's current tour. The event will take place at New York's Madison Square Garden tonight and tomorrow night.
"Motown: The Musical" will have its official premiere at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in New York on Sunday.
Motown founder Berry Gordy wrote the script for the highly-anticipated show, which interweaves the label's story with Gordy's romance with Diana Ross. Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, and Michael Jackson are among the characters in the show, which focuses on Motown's first 25 years.
Kenny Rogers is experiencing a well of emotions with the news of his selection to enter the Country Music Hall of Fame. The music great teared up at a press conference announcing his induction Wednesday, saying the thoughts of his kids seeing this honor in his lifetime is what brought out the waterworks.
Kenny says his eight-year-old twins, Justin and Jordan, give him purpose in life. He says he's glad he can share the honor with them. Rogers has been tapped for the special honor, along with country greats Bobby Bare and "Cowboy" Jack Clement. The three were selected for induction by voting members of the Country Music Association. They'll join 118 other Hall of Fame members during the official induction ceremony at the museum in October.
The door from Sir Paul McCartney's boyhood haunt is fetching big bucks. According to Scotsman.com, the front door from the Beatle's childhood home in Liverpool sold for more than seven-thousand-500 dollars at an auction on Wednesday. Apparently, Paul spent his more formative years at the home and learned how to play guitar, piano and drums while living there from 1955 to 1964. The home was refurbished after Paul and his family left the house. The original door was eventually bought by singer Glen South, who kept it behind his sofa. Auctioneer Chris Albury says the door was "a curious thing to put a value on."
This won't be the first time Ozzy has used the "CSI" franchise to introduce new music. In 2010 the rocker debuted his solo single "Let Me Hear You Scream" on an episode of "CSI: NY."
A number of songs Dionne Warwick made famous are getting a new voice -- courtesy of "American Idol." The singer was a mentor for this week's show, which featured material from the Burt Bacharach-Hal David catalog. "Idol" finalist Candice Glover earned a standing ovation on the Fox show Wednesday night for her rendition of Warwick's "Don't Make Me Over."
Amber Holcombe also earned praise for her performance of Warwick's "I Say A Little Prayer." But the judges thought Angie MIller fell short with her rendition of Warwick's "Anyone Who Had a Heart," and Janelle Arthur didn't really win the judges over with her version of "I'll Never Fall In Love Again." Meanwhile, Kree Harrison impressed with her cover of Jackie DeShannon's "What the World Needs Now Is Love." But Lazaro Arbos' rendition of the Carpenters' "Close To You" fell flat with the judges, and Randy Jackson told him it was the worst performance of the year. The show also featured the six finalists singing the songs they wish they had written. "Idol" returns tonight with a performance from inaugural "Idol" winner Kelly Clarkson, and another finalist will face elimination.
Gregg Allman's life story is headed to the big screen. "The Hollywood Reporter" Randall Miller and Jody Savin have purchased the rights to the rocker's 2012 memoir, "My Cross To Bear." The two filmmakers are collaborating on the script, while Miller will be the director. Allman and his manager Michael Lehman are on board as well as executive producers. Miller says he's excited about the project. He explains that they knew Gregg had "a great story," but they didn't realize "how great it was" until they read the book. He adds that Allman's story is very uplifting, and "is not the normal falling-into-hell story that rock and roll often is." Miller says the movie will highlight two periods in Gregg's life -- his days as a young musician striving for fame with the Allman Brothers Band, and the struggles he's faced in more recent years. The film will also include Allman's music, featuring a mix of original material along with songs performed by the cast.
Miller and Savin are also behind the upcoming film "CBGB," about Hilly Kristal and his famed New York City club that became a punk rock Mecca in the late 1970s. The movie is expected to hit theaters this year.
Neil Young is on a special road trip. The rocker recently launched a trek to showcase his 1959 Lincoln Continental convertible, which he's modified into an energy-efficient vehicle that runs on cellulosic ethanol. And they're documenting their journey on the car's Tumblr page. The vehicle introduces herself as "LincVolt," but says "you can call me LV." She explains that she's "not just another classy chassis" but has "a lot going on under the hood," which is why she has the blog. With the trek LV and Young -- her "b-f-f and driver" -- are "demonstrating the viability" of cellulosic ethanol, and will visit "Washington DC, Detroit and other centers to show that a big car can be very clean, economical and efficient."
So far LV and Young have traveled to California's Joshua Tree National Park and the Imperial Sand Dunes. They've also posted a photo of the "VLC," which LV explains is her "polar opposite" -- a Very Light Car. LV admits she's a "Very Heavy Car" but doesn't really want to discuss her weight, because she's "a lady." LV adds that she and the VLC are "soul sisters" who both "believe in zero emissions and in saving Mother Earth." Fans can read more of LV's blog at lincvolt.tumblr.com.
Former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony is expressing his appreciation for some kind words from David Lee Roth. Anthony tells Sirius/XM's "Eddie Trunk Live" it was "flattering to hear Dave talk like that." Anthony adds that when he was in the group Roth "never used to talk like that." He admits he doesn't really know how to respond to Diamond Dave's compliments, but adds that the singer doesn't need to try to win him over. Michael explains that he's a "water under the bridge" kind of guy who doesn't "hold any kind of grudges for anything." He also doesn't rule out a return to Van Halen, simply because "you never know what will happen at any time." Anthony explains that at this stage of his life and career "it's more about the friendship and just people," and if something happens musically, "all the better."
Back in February Roth told "Rolling Stone" that he really feels Michael's absence from Van Halen. He said he particularly misses Anthony's vocals, and praised Anthony as "arguably one of the greatest high tenor voices ever." Roth added that he "would always look forward to that reunion" with Anthony. Van Halen officially dropped Anthony from the band's lineup in 2006, and replaced him with guitarist Eddie Van Halen's son Wolfgang. Anthony, meanwhile, has continued to work with former Van Halen vocalist Sammy Hagar, and in 2008 formed the supergroup Chickenfoot with Hagar, Joe Satriani, and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith.
The man who's first big hit was the psychedelic pop song "Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)" is headed to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Kenny Rogers has been tapped for the special honor along with country greats Bobby Bare and "Cowboy" Jack Clement. The three were selected for induction by voting members of the Country Music Association. They'll join 118 other Hall of Fame members during the official induction ceremony at the museum in October. Rogers launched his career in the 1950s with rockabilly group The Scholars, then moved on to the folk group the New Christy Minstrels, before achiving fame as the frontman for the country-rock group The First Edition. But he established himself as a solo country star in the 1970s with such hits as "Lucille" and "The Gambler." Upon learning of his induction, the 74-year-old singer-songwriter said everything paled in comparison to the honor, given that it's happening during his lifetime. He said his sons already thought he had been inducted then added, "Maybe now I can really impress them."
Rogers, who will be inducted in the Hall's "Modern Era" category, has charted hits in almost every decade of his 55-year career and shows no signs of slowing down. He's scheduled to play at the Glastonbury Music Festival in England in June.
Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi is denying allegations that he kicked Richie Sambora out of the band. The singer tells the Austin's "American-Statesman" that Sambora is "doing all right," but admits he hasn't "spoken to him." He adds that the guitarist walked away from Bon Jovi's tour on his own accord. Jon says the rest of the band was "surprised" last week when they got a call a few hours before their their April 2nd show in Calgary notifying them that Richie "wouldn't be there." But he still isn't offering any details behind Sambora's departure, and simply adds that it's "a personal matter." Reports have surfaced claiming that Jon -- at his wife Dorothea's urging -- kicked Richie off the tour over Richie's supposed substance abuse.
Following the Calgary show last week Bon Jovi posted a website message stating that Sambora's absence was "due to personal issues," but the band would still continue with their tour as scheduled. The group has tapped guitarist Phil "Phil X" Xenidis to fill in for Sambora.
Sam Moore, Cyndi Lauper, and Mavis Staples are just some of the stars who added a bit of Memphis Soul to the nation's capital at the latest "In Performance at the White House" show. Moore launched the star-packed concert, teaming up with former "American Idol" finalist Joshua Ledet on the Sam & Dave hit "Soul Man."
Cyndi received a standing ovation for her rocking rendition of "Try A Little Tenderness," while Mavis contributed the Staple Singers' classic "I'll Take You There." Booker T and the M.G.'s guitarist Steve Cropper lent his talents to Justin Timberlake's cover of Otis Redding's "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay." He also sat in with the Alabama Shakes. Booker T was there as well, serving as the show's musical director. Other stars performing for President Obama and the First Family at the special East Room event included Eddie Floyd, William Bell, Ben Harper, and Queen Latifah. "In Performance at the White House: Memphis Soul" will air on PBS on April 16th.
Mick Fleetwood's third marriage appears to be coming to an end. "Entertainment Tonight" says the Fleetwood Mac drummer and his wife Lynn Susan Frankel Fleetwood have split up. The rocker is filing for the legal separation, claiming irreconcilable differences. In the documents he’s asking for the judge to grant them joint custody of their twin daughters. Fleetwood is also looking to protect his assets, and wants to keep all of the royalties he earned prior to their marriage. Mick and Lynn have been married for 17 years. They tied the knot on July 26th, 1995.
Fleetwood's personal drama comes as the band is returning to action. Fleetwood Mac just launched a North American tour. In addition, the band is expected to release some new music in the very near future. Fleetwood Mac performed the new song "Sad Angel" during their concert in Philadelphia on Saturday. In introducing the song, guitarist Lindsey Buckingham told the crowd that the band would have an EP out "in a few days."
Joe Walsh is shedding a little light on the upcoming Eagles tour. The guitarist tells Billboard.com the group is "building a whole new stage, lights, sound, visuals, set list" for the trek, and they're "going to revisit a lot of old songs and do a whole new tour" based around the band's two-part documentary, "History of the Eagles." Walsh adds that since he didn't join the group until 1975, there'll be "part of the show that doesn't involve" him. But he says he might "come out and play some James Gang stuff" to show what he was doing "when 'Witchy Woman' came out."
Meanwhile, Walsh reveals that former Eagle Bernie Leadon will be joining the group as a special guest on the tour. Walsh admits he "never really got a chance to play with him," since he replaced Bernie in the group, but they've "been in contact." He adds that he's "really looking forward to playing with him, finally," and that Bernie is going to "take the show up a notch." "The History of the Eagles Tour" will begin in Louisville, Kentucky on July 6th.
Billy Joel is sharing his love of motorcycles in the new book "Rockin' Garages." He tells author Tom Cotter about getting his first bike -- a Yamaha 400 Special -- in 1977, and how he's traded up from there. He adds thatwhen he bought his first Harley-Davidson, everyone thought he "had arrived." But Joel is a big fan of Japanese motorcycles. He explains that those bikes are "lighter, better cheaper, and their engineering is brilliant." Billy adds that "Japanese bikes got more peopel into motorcycles, which we should all be happy about." However, Joel also isn't opposed to machines made on the other side of the Atlantic, either. He has several Italian motorcycles, and says his Moto Guzzis are among his "personal favorites."
Joel's love of motorcycles extends beyond owning and riding -- he also owns a motorcycle shop. Billy says last winter he mentioned the shop to Bruce Springsteen, who -- despite the sub-zero temperature -- stopped by to test drive Joel's Sacred Cow bobber. Bruce was so impressed with the ride that he asked the shop to build him one. Other stars, including Sammy Hagar, AC/DC's Brian Johnson, Pink Floyd's Nick Mason, and the Doobie Brothers' Pat Simmons, are also among the rockers featured in the book. "Rockin' Garages" is available now from www.motorbooks.com.
Bob Seger's getting more proof that "rock and roll never forgets." When the Detroit rocker plays his hometown show Thursday night, a special lady will be in the audience. Michigan's MLive.com says 79-year-old Evie Branan will finally attend the show she asked to see nearly two years ago. Her concert journey began on May 7th, 2011, when she awoke after being in a semi-coma for five years. Her first words after regaining consciousness were, "I want to go to a Bob Seger concert." Evie admits she has no idea why she made the request to see the rocker upon awakening, and speculates that her final thoughts before suffering the debilitating stroke might have been about Seger.
But Branan is a fan -- Thursday's show will mark her fifth Seger concert. And the administrator at the nursing home where Branan lives is making sure her star resident has a special night. In addition to buying the tickets, she's arranged for Evie to go to the concert in a limo. She also contacted Seger's management, who has set up a dinner for Evie and members of Seger's Silver Bullet Band and crew. While Seger himself isn't confirmed for the dinner, Evie is hoping he'll be there. She says she's excited about the show, and adds that she's really looking forward to "hugging Bob Seger and giving him a big smooch."
Wonder adds that he still has two other longtime projects in the works as well -- the album "Ten Billion Hearts" and the tribute to his mother, "Gospel Inspired by Lula." Stevie is also working on some new music with country star Hunter Hayes. The two performed together over the weekend at the Academy of Country Music Awards. Stevie and Hunter teamed up on Stevie's hit "Sir Duke." Wonder also closed out the ceremony with a performance of "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" with a little help from Hayes on the drums, while ACM hosts Blake Shelton and Luke Bryan chimed in on the vocals.
Frankie Avalon and Paul Anka are among the many stars remembering the late Annette Funicello. Anka recalls once writing a song for Annette after the Walt Disney Studios didn't like the fact that the two were getting into a close relationship.
Avalon says, "We have lost one of America's sweethearts for generations upon generations." He calls himself "fortunate enough to have been friends with Annette as well as appear in many films, TV and appearances with her," and that she'll "live on forever." Avalon adds that he'll "miss her and the world will miss her." Frankie and Annette starred in several beach films in the 1960s, including "Muscle Beach Party" and "Beach Blanket Bingo" as well as the original "Beach Party." They reunited on screen in the 1987 beach-blanket spoof, "Back To The Beach." Funicello died Monday from complications of multiple sclerosis. She was 70.
The tributes are rolling in for the rock engineer and producer Andy Johns. Queen's Brian May writes in a website post that Andy was a "great record producer," calling him a "lovely guy - patient, skilled, funny, encouraging, sharp... all the qualities you want in someone who is getting your music on to tape." Other stars are commenting via Twitter. Slash calls Andy "1 of the great engineer/producers of our time," while singer Glenn Hughes tweets, "Larger than life-You are loved Andy." Red Hot Chili Peppers and Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith notes that Andy made some of his favorite albums. Johns was the younger brother of famed producer-engineer Glyn Johns. Andy's engineering credits include the Rolling Stones' "Exile on Main Street," "Goat's Head Soup," and "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll;" six Led Zeppelin albums including "Physical Graffiti;" and Blind Faith's self-titled album. He also worked as a producer and-or engineer for Jethro Tull, Van Halen, Free, L.A. Guns, and many others.
Former L.A. Guns guitarist Stacey Blades confirmed Johns' death on Monday. The rocker told CNN they had been working together on a project when Andy was hospitalized "about ten days ago." He admits that Johns' health "wasn't all that great over the last six months or so, but he was still Andy." Stacey adds that he "was shocked" when he "got the call" Sunday with the news that Andy had died. He says it was "just amazing to watch him work." Blades describes Andy as "inspiring," explaining that he learned "so much about sound and thinking outside of the box" from Andy. He adds that Johns was "a good friend, a great producer, and a great guy" and he'll be "sorely missed."
Kool & the Gang and ZZ Top are on board for Kid Rock's summer tour. The veteran bands will be featured at select stops on the rap-rocker's "Rebel Soul" trek -- which features tickets set at the fan-friendly price of just 20 dollars. They'll begin the road trip in Barstow, Virginia on June 28th. Kook & the Gang is slated to appear on ten dates, including the trek's first seven shows. The group's last stop will be in Irvine, California on July 26th. ZZ Top will then take over starting in Mountain View, California on July 28th. The Texas trio will play 16 shows with Rock and his Twisted Brown Trucker Band, including a three-night stand in Rock's hometown of Detroit on August 9th, 10th, and 11th. The tour will come to a close in Tampa, Florida on September 15th. Uncle Kracker is on board for the entire trek.
Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora might not have left the band's tour voluntarily. An unnamed source tells "The New York Post" that frontman Jon Bon Jovi has been "trying to get rid" of Sambora because the guitarist "drinks constantly and has a stream of Hollywood bimbos around all the time." The unidentified insider says Jon is following his wife Dorothea's suggestion of keeping the band's "Because We Can" trek drug and alcohol free, which conflicts with Sambora's lifestyle. The source adds that Richie -- who has twice sought treatment for substance abuse issues -- is "a hard partier" who has said he "didn't believe in rehab." Jon and Dorothea, meanwhile, have been dealing with a substance abuse problem within their own family. Late last year their daughter Stephanie was hospitalized and arrested after suffering a drug overdose.
Bon Jovi announced last week that Sambora was skipping the current leg of the band's tour due to "personal issues." Neither Sambora nor the group have offered any details behind on the guitarist's abrupt departure, or when he's expected to return to the fold. Guitarist Phil "Phil X" Xenidis -- who subbed for Sambora during Richie's 2011 stint in rehab -- is filling in for Sambora.
Paul McCartney is heading to Texas as his "Out There" tour continues to grow. The former Beatle has announced plans to make his concert debut in Austin, Texas this spring with a performance at the Frank Erwin Center on May 22nd. Tickets for the show go on sale to the general public on Tuesday. As it currently stands, the Austin show is also the first U.S. stop on the trek, following three concerts in Brazil earlier in the month. Other newly announced stops include Tulsa, Oklahoma's BOK Center on May 29th Washington, DC's Nationals Park on July 12th. McCartney's only other U.S. date so far is Boston's Fenway Park on July 9th.
Mark Knopfler is scrapping his upcoming Russian dates for political reasons. The former Dire Straits frontman explains in a post on his website that "given the crackdown by Russian authorities on groups including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch," he has "regretfully" decided to cancel shows scheduled for Moscow and St. Petersburg later this spring. Knopfler was slated to perform in Moscow on June 7, and in St. Petersburg on June 8th. The rocker adds that he doesn't intend to slight the locals or his fans in those cities, but that he's "always loved playing in Russia" and has "great affection for the country and the people." He also says he hopes that "the current climate will change soon." Knopfler will launch a European tour later this month in support of his latest album, "Privateering." The trek will begin in Bucharest, Romania on April 25th.
Stevie Wonder and John Fogerty are stretching their musical boundaries into the country arena. The two stars took part in Sunday night's 4/7/13 Academy of Country Music Awards ceremony. In addition to providing the finale to the CBS TV event, Stevie also sang "Sir Duke" with young country star Hunter Hayes.
Fogerty, meanwhile, served as a presenter, joining Miranda Lambert in handing out the award for Album of the Year. But he'll be performing with the country stars, too. He's among the many artists who are set to take part in the upcoming TV special "ACM Presents: Tim McGraw's Superstar Summer Night." A variety of artists are slated to perform on the concert special. The show will also feature hip-hop stars Pitbull and Ne-Yo as well as such country stars as McGraw, Luke Bryan, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Jason Aldean, and others. The show will be taped monday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas -- where the ACM Awards were presented -- and air on CBS on May 19th.
In the midst of headlines about her financial troubles, Dionne Warwick has booked a guest spot on next Wednesday's episode of "American Idol." The singing vet will serve as a mentor as the remaining "Idol" hopefuls sing songs by Warwick's famed songwriting team of Burt Bacharach and Hal David. "American Idol" airs Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox.
Warwick helped kick off the American Documentary Film Festival Thursday night in Palm Springs, California. According to "The Desert Sun," the 72-year-old singer was on hand to help support the film "Voices of Love," a film about her family, which includes her late cousin Whitney Houston. Warwick made headlines last month for filing for bankruptcy protection to resolve mounting tax issues.
Sting is among the stars entertaining college basketball fans. The rocker was on hand Sunday 3/7/13 for "The Big Dance" concert in Atlanta, which was staged in conjunction with the NCAA's Final Four college basketball tournament. Sting tweeted about the event, posting a photograph taken from the back of the stage as he performed and remarking that a "great crowd" was on hand for the show. He also tweeted a photo of him with Grace Potter backstage at the event. They both turned in sets ahead of the Dave Matthews Band, who was Sunday's headliner. The concert event began on Friday with the Zac Brown Band and My Morning Jacket among the performers, while Muse and hip-hop stars Flo Rida and Ludacris were some of the stars who performed on Saturday.
There's a new YouTube Channel dedicated to the late "Godfather of Soul." Shout Factory launched the channel Friday with a documentary on James Brown's April 5th, 1968 concert in Boston. The launch date coincides with the 45th anniversary of the historic concert, which took place the day after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. Many have credited Brown's role at that concert for calming racial tensions in Boston and preventing the riots that erupted in several other cities in the wake of King's murder. In launching the James Brown YouTube Channel, Shout Factory promises to deliver more archive concert footage, testimonials and the opportunity to buy DVDs and Brown-related merchandise. The channel was launched in collaboration with the James Brown Estate. Brown died on December 25th, 2006 at the age of 73.
David Lee Roth says he's had "four great loves" in his life, but has never "even come close" to getting married. The Van Halen frontman, who now lives in Japan, adds that while he currently has a girlfriend who's "half" his age and they are "in love," he doesn't hear wedding bells in their foreseeable future. Roth tells Australia's "Brisbane Times" that marriage just isn't for him -- and attributes his attitude towards holy matrimony to his upbringing. Diamond Dave explains that he comes from a "supremely dysfunctional family," which he "spiritually left" at the age of 12. He says his parents were "always fighting," and that they fought even before they were married. The singer adds that his mom once told him he was "an accident." But Dave isn't ruling out marriage altogether. The 58-year-old rocker explains that the "Roth side of the family always settled down later in life."
There might be some "Love" lost from the Beach Boys' classic lineup, but that's not keeping the group from returning to the stage. Brian Wilson, Al Jardine, and David Marks have announced plans to return to the road. The three have seven dates set, and promise that more stops will be added to their trek. As it stands, they're scheduled to launch their tour in Atlantic City, New Jersey on July 20th. They have five more dates booked in late July, and one other show -- in Los Angeles -- slated for October 20th.
Wilson, Jardine, and Marks don't say just what they're calling their group -- Mike Love owns the Beach Boys name. Love also appeared to be the one who split the group in two. As the Beach Boys' 50th anniversary trek was winding down last fall, he announced plans to remain on the road with his own version of the group -- which included Bruce Johnston but not Wilson, Jardine, or Marks. At the time Brian admitted that Mike's actions took him by surprise, and that he felt like he, Al, and David had been "fired" from the group. Love's Beach Boys are currently on the road. They'll be performing in Sewell, New Jersey Friday night.
Brian Wilson, Al Jardine, And David Marks Tour Dates
July 20 - Atlantic City, New Jersey, at The Grand at The Golden Nugget
July 21 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at Stage AE - Outdoor Stage
July 23 - Interlochen, Michigan, at the Kresge Auditorium
July 25 - Kettering, Ohio, at the Fraze Pavilion
July 26 - Highland Park, Illinois, at the Ravinia Festival
July 27 - Apple Valley, Minnesota, at the Weesner Family Amphitheater
October 20 - Los Angeles, California, at the Greek Theater
Cheap Trick has some special plans to mark a special anniversary. The group will commemorate 35 years since their landmark "Budokan" shows with a couple of live events. On April 28th, Cheap Trick will perform at the John Varvatos Bowery boutique in New York City, and play the exact same set they played at the Japanese venue on April 28th, 1978. The group will then head to the West Coast to take the stage at the El Rey Theater in Los Angeles on April 30th, and they'll deliver the same set fans heard at the Budokan on April 30th, 1978. And fans won't have to be there in person to check out the shows. The April 28th show will be carried live online via Livestream.com, and the April 30th concert will be broadcast live on AXS TV. Additional details are available at CheapTrick.com.
Christine McVie just might be changing her tune about a return to Fleetwood Mac. The band's former singer and keyboardist is telling the UK's "Metro" she "might pop back on stage when they're in London" -- provided they want her to do so. Christine says she'd be open to doing "a little duet or something like that," but wouldn't want to play a full show. In interviews earlier this year she seemed firm in her resolve to remain out of the spotlight and away from the band. Drummer Mick Fleetwood had even said he was trying to persuade her to return for the group's current tour, and eventually conceded that he "had to agree to stop asking her."
Fleetwood Mac just launched their 2013 tour. They kicked off the 48-date North American trek Thursday night with a show in Columbus, Ohio. The band's next stop will be in Philadelphia on Saturday. Fleetwood Mac will head overseas this fall. Their European tour includes a three-night stand in London in late September.
Remaining Fleetwood Mac North American Tour Dates
June 12 - Detroit, Michigan, at Joe Louis Arena
June 14 - Chicago, Illinois, at the Allstate Arena
June 15 - Cleveland, Ohio, at the Quicken Loans Arena
June 18 - Montreal, Quebec, Canada, at the Bell Center
June 19 - Albany, New York, at the Times Union Center Arena
June 21 - Boston, Massachusetts, at the Comcast Center
June 22 - Wantagh, New York, at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre
June 24 - Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Time Warner Cable Arena
June 26 - Des Moines, Iowa, at the Wells Fargo Center
June 29 - Spokane, Washington, at the Spokane Arena
June 30 - Portland, Oregon, at the Rose Garden Arena
July 3 - Los Angeles, California, at the Staples Center
July 5 - San Diego, California, at the Viejas Arena
July 6 - Sacramento, California, at the Sleep Train Arena
A couple of New Jersey rockers are taking their music to South America. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and Bon Jovi are on board for this year's Rock in Rio festival. They're just two of the stars set to take the stage at the massive seven-day concert event in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Metallica, Iron Maiden, and Slayer are on board as well, along with such stars as Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake. Other performers include Muse, the Offspring, Alice in Chains, Rob Zombie, Nickelback, John Mayer, Avenged Sevenfold, and many others. Rock in Rio 2013 is scheduled to take place September 13th through the 15th and the 19th through the 22nd. More information is available at RockInRio.com.
Yoko Ono is curating this year's Meltdown festival. The late John Lennon's widow has put together the lineup for the London event, which will include a performance from her own Plastic Ono Band. Some of the other stars she's tapped to perform include Marianne Faithfull with Bill Frisell, Boy George, Patti Smith, and Iggy and the Stooges. The event will also feature a special screening in which Yoko will present rare films shen and Lennon made, as well as a special performance of Lennon's last studio album, "Double Fantasy." The 2013 Meltdown festival will take place in London from June 14th through the 23rd.
A Glen Campbell classic is being remade to promote tourism. The Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau is using a new version of the song in their new marketing campaign.
Jimmy Webb wrote the song. He once told WFUV's "The Living Room" show that many people thought "Galveston" was patriotic song, based on Campbell's uptempo, "let's all go to war" delivery of the 1969 hit. But he said he intended "Galveston" to be more somber and wistful, "about a guy who's caught up in something he doesn't understand and would rather be somewhere else." But Galveston CVB Marketing Director Melody Smith says the city is hoping the song will make people want to come there. She adds the song is "so iconic worldwide, and to many people, it is already considered an anthem" for the Texas island. The "Galveston County Daily News" says the city purchased the rights to the song for two years for 25-thousand-dollars.
Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora is expressing his appreciation to the fans. But he's remaining vague on just why he's left the band in the middle of their tour. The rocker shared via Twitter Wednesday, quote, "Thank you everyone for your concern. I'm well, but had to stay in LA to take care of a personal matter. Love you all and see you very soon." Meanwhile, Bon Jovi has tapped guitarist Phil "Phil X" Xenidis to fill in for Sambora. The band posted a photo late Wednesday of their interim guitarist and frontman Jon Bon Jovi, with the message, "We welcome Phil X back to the tour." Phil previously performed with Bon Jovi in 2011, when Sambora skipped a number of tour dates to enter rehab.
It looks like Tina Turner may be ready to give marriage another try. The Swiss newspaper "Blick" reports the 73-year-old music icon is now engaged to her partner of 27 years, German producer Erwin Bach. The two have been living together in Switzerland for 18 years. According to "Blick," Bach, who is 57, apparently proposed to Turner two years ago. She only recently said "yes." The couple reportedly plan to exchange vows on their property on Lake Zurich. It was reported earlier this year that Turner had applied to become a Swiss citizen.
Turner's reps have not commented on the engagement reports. But if a wedding does take place it will be Turner's second time at the altar. She was previously married to musical partner Ike Turner from 1962 to 1978. The controversial marriage was notoriously marked by abuse as documented in Tina's memoirs "I, Tina" and retold on the big screen in the 1993 biopic "What's Love Got To Do With It," starring Angela Bassett as Tina and Laurence Fishburne as Ike.
A few details are coming out about Eric Clapton's upcoming Crossroads Guitar Festival. An unnamed source tells "Rolling Stone" that that Eric will kick off the two-day event with an acoustic set. Clapton will also reportedly join many of his guests for their performances, and share the stage with the Allman Brothers Band, who are the opening night headliner. Clapton will cap off the festival with his own headlining set on the second night. Jeff Beck, Robbie Robertson, Jimmie Vaughan, Booker T, and John Mayer are among the dozens of stars slated to take part in the Crossroads Guitar Festival, which will serve as the finale of Clapton's current tour. The event will take place at New York's Madison Square Garden on April 12th and 13th.
Chicago is working on a new album. The band has posted a couple of demos on their website and their new SoundCloud page. Chicago's Robert Lamm says he wanted to "conjure strong images" with "Watching All the Colors," which he describes as "very personal and intense."
Lamm says "Somethin' Comin' I Know" has a "Beatle-esque" bridge, with lyrics that serve as "a cautionary tale to a friend." He explains that both songs are "pre-real horns," but are "conceptually complete." Lamm adds that "it'll be a blast to hear the differences" once the "final Chicago masters" are finished "in the near future."
Eddie Van Halen admits that the idea of him "playing guitar to hip hop was definitely left of center." But the rocker says he was "intrigued" when rapper LL Cool J invited him to contribute to his next album, and was further impressed after they met to discuss the collaboration. Van Halen explains that he was "not only inspired by the songs," but also with LL's enthusiasm and "down-to-earth personality" and the freedom LL gave him to "co-create." Eddie is also making his vocal debut on the album, saying that "for the very first time" he sings on the chorus of "We're The Greatest." He adds that working with LL Cool J was "a breath of fresh air" that he needed "as an artist and an individual."
Van Halen also praises LL's upcoming album in general, calling it "outstanding." He adds that he "feels blessed" that he not only had the chance to work with LL Cool J, but that he can "call him a great friend." Eddie also recorded a second song with LL, adding the guitar solo to the song "Not Leaving You Tonight." LL Cool J's album "Authentic" will be in stores on April 30th.
Billy Joel credits his career to the late Phil Ramone. In a lengthy tribute the "Piano Man" penned for "Rolling Stone," Joel says he met the legendary producer at a time when his career was in crisis, and he was on the verge of being dropped by Columbia, which didn't want him to bring his touring band into the studio. But Joel says he was determined to develop his own sound with his own band -- and finally found a partner in Ramone. Billy admits he liked Phil "instantly," recalling he was "very unpretentious," "funny," and "warm," and that they "had this sympatico immediately." He says Phil also loved his band's sound, energy, and "rough edges," supported his musical vision, and knew how to enhance it. Their first collaboration was 1977's "The Stranger," Billy's first hit album, and the first of six top ten discs they made together. Fans can read Billy's full tribute online at RollingStone.com.
Malawi's education minister Eunice Kazembe is clearing up what she thinks has been some confusion over Madonna's charitable work in her country. In an interview with BBC, Kazembe said that the pop star, who has adopted two children from Malawi, went back on her word about building a 15-million dollar girls' academy there. Madonna did change the direction of her project back in 2011, and now she's building "classrooms at existing schools." Kazembe claimed the star's organization "Raising Malawi" has said they built ten schools - as opposed to classrooms, which is "a difference in terminology" she wants to address. Kazembe said that while the country is grateful for her efforts, Madonna "promised an academy" and then "just changed her mind on the project without consulting us."
Trevor Neilson, the philanthropist now in charge of the the star's organization, tells BCC that Madonna's relationship with the Malawi government is "good."
Paul McCartney is heading the way of Fenway. The Beatles legend has announced the first U.S. date on his "Out There" world stadium tour, booking Boston's Fenway Park for a July 9th appearance. Tickets for the show will go on sale Friday at 10:00 am through livenation.com and redsox.com. But if you're an American Express card holder, you're in luck. Card holders can get a jump on securing their seat for the show from 10:00 am Tuesday through 10:00 pm Thursday. McCartney set attendance records at Fenway when he played two shows at the ballpark in August 2009.
The rock great has been trickling out dates for his stadium tour just a few at a time. He's also scheduled to play three shows in Brazil in May and has dates booked for Warsaw, Poland and Vienna, Austria in June.
The famed Steinway grand piano from the Hitsville U.S.A. studios in Detroit is back home. The piano was sent to the Steinway factory in New York last year after singer Paul McCartney discovered it no longer worked during a visit to the studios in 2011. He agreed to help fund the restoration of the piano that was used in Motown's Studio B. McCartney and Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr. were the first to play the refurbished piano last fall at an event in New York. It will be back on display on April 25th.
Berry Gordy is calling "Motown: The Musical" "a dream come true." The 83-year-old music legend adds that the Broadway show is "probably the last thing" he'll do. He discussed the show on CBS' "CBS Sunday Morning" over the weekend, explaining that he spent five years developing the production, which he calls "a labor of love." He also isn't afraid to highlight some of the things he got wrong. He says the show tells the love story between him and The Supremes' Diana Ross, which got off to a rough start. Gordy admits he was "madly in love" with Ross, who didn't immediately reciprocate the feelings. He recalls the first time he put the moves on Diana -- and was rejected -- saying it was "like the most embarrassing thing" of his life. He adds that Ross "made a joke out of it," which is included in the play.
Gordy also recalls having "a big fight with Marvin Gaye" over the album "What's Going On." He says he objected to the project, fearing a protest album would tarnish Gaye's image. But Berry says Marvin didn't care, explaining that he had a brother in Vietnam and wanted to "awaken the minds of mankind." Gordy adds that the album's success was proof that he was wrong and Marvin was right, and that he "learned a lot" from the experience. "Motown: The Musical" is now in previews at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in New York. Opening night is set for April 14th.
B.J. Thomas says "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head" was "a life-changing record" for him, and he considers it "a privilege to have been able to do it." But the singer tells Billboard.com there were "a lot of problems surrounding the song," which was featured in the film "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." He explains that some of the movie's producers and actors -- including star Robert Redford -- intended the project to be "an avant garde art film," and "didn't want a song in it." But "Raindrops" ended up in the movie, and turned out to be Thomas' breakthrough hit. It topped the chart in the U.S., Canada, Norway, and South Africa, and peaked in the top ten in Ireland and New Zealand.
Thomas has now re-recorded "Raindrops" with Lyle Lovett for his new album "The Living Room Sessions," which features collaborative remakes of some of his biggest hits. "The Living Room Sessions" hits stores today. Thomas will mark the album's arrival with an appearance tonight on NBC's "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon."
The new album honoring John Denver is in stores. A diverse group of artists have recorded their own versions of the late singer-songwriter's material for "The Music Is You: A Tribute To John Denver." The 16-track set includes Train, who covers the hit "Sunshine On My Shoulders;" and My Morning Jacket, who contributes "Leaving on a Jet Plane." Country singers Brandi Carlile and Emmylou Harris team up on "Take Me Home, Country Roads," and Old Crow Medicine Show sings "Back Home Again." Dave Matthews, Amos Lee, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and The Lemonheads frontman Evan Dando also participated in the project, which is supporting charity. Some of the money generated by sales of "The Music Is You" will go to The Wilderness Society.
A special theatrical presentation of the 2010 Levon Helm documentary is set for later this month. RollingStone.com says "Ain't In It For My Health" will make it's first run in a U.S. theater with screenings at New York's Cinema Village. The film's opening date is significant. It'll premiere on April 19th, which is also the first anniversary of Levon's death. The former Band drummer passed away on April 19th, 2012 following a lengthy battle with throat cancer. After the New York run, "Ain't In It For My Health" is expected to open in select cities across the country.
"Ain't In It For My Health" chronicles Helm's efforts as he made his 2009 album "Electric Dirt." The disc won the first-ever Grammy for Best Americana Album in 2010.
The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen, and Pink Floyd are all making the top ten in a new BBC Radio 2 listeners' poll of favorite albums. But only Pink Floyd is landing in the top five, with "Dark Side of the Moon" taking the number four spot. The Stones' "Sticky Fingers" lands at number six, and The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" has the number eight spot. Queen's "A Night at the Opera" rounds out the top ten. Coldplay's "A Rush of Blood to the Head" earned the poll's top spot.
.jpeg "E-Quest")
.jpeg "RR Reunion")
Website Design