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Quincy Jones Trying to Buy Back Vibe
Posted in Music, Quincy Jones on the July 3, 2009
Since the announcement on Tuesday that Vibe magazine was going to close, Quincy Jones, the magazine’s founder, has been vying to save the urban music publication that he started back in 1993. The music producer spoke of Wicks Media Group who bought the ownership rights in 2006 saying “I’m trying to buy my magazine back now. They just messed my magazine all up, but I’m gonna get it back.” Quincy also said that he is planning to make the magazine online because it’s more profitable. He said “We gotta get into the 21st century you know. Print and all that stuff is over, we gotta remember that. They’re over the same way as the record business. We have got to get into this century.”
Michael Jackson Rises to Top of Charts
Posted in Billboard's Top Music, Michael Jackson, Radio Show on the July 3, 2009
When your music is universal, it’s going to live on forever. That’s the case with the music performed by the late King of Pop Michael Jackson. In spite of his sudden death, his music lives on in his absence by receiving a lot of radio airplay. It should come as no surprise that the singer has returned to the top of the Billboard charts. Industry experts say that three of the singer’s albums, ‘Number Ones’, ‘The Essential Michael Jackson’, and ‘Thriller’ each sold around 100,000 in the past week. All 3 titles will be the top 3 albums on Billboard’s Top Pop Catalog chart and Michael may secure anywhere from 6 to 9 slots in the tally’s top 10 with some of his other albums.
Michael Jackson was a ’strict’ dad
Posted in Michael Jackson on the July 3, 2009
Michael Jackson’s former photographer has said the star was a “strict” dad who wanted the best for his kids.
Jackson died suddenly in LA on June 25 after reportedly suffering a heart attack. He has three young children - Prince Michael, 12, Paris, 11, and Prince Michael II, seven, who was also known as Blanket.
Photographer Ian Barkley, who was hired by the star in 2002, said: “His kids totally love their dad and he was extremely protective over them. Even when we were just around his staff, he was protective.”
He added: “We would baby-proof everywhere, like really expensive suites. They would tape up every corner with cardboard and make sure the kids couldn’t hurt themselves. They were very strict on what the kids would eat to make sure they didn’t have allergies.”
Barkley said the star’s mood always depended on whether he had taken any drugs or not: “There were two sides to him. When he wasn’t on pills he was extremely mentally sound, very business-like, very smart. But when he was on drugs, he would do some really odd things.”
Source: Splash News
Michael Jackson’s track Man In The Mirror set to reach number one
Posted in Hit Song, Michael Jackson on the July 2, 2009
Michael Jackson’s track Man In The Mirror is set to storm the UK Singles Chart this week and reach number one.
The 50-year-old star died suddenly in LA on June 25 after he reportedly suffered a heart attack.
The single, released 21 years ago in 1988, was Michael’s favourite track, and it is currently at number 11 in the charts.
La Roux’s track Bulletproof is currently at number one and it is claimed Man In The Mirror has sold 24,000 downloads in the midweek charts, five thousand more than Bulletproof.
The British public have bought 300,000 of Michael’s albums and singles in just two days following the star’s tragic death.
HMV boss Simon Fox said: “Looking back at what happened with Elvis in ‘77 and John Lennon in 1980, the lift we have seen is far bigger than those two events.”
Source: Splash News
Michael Jackson was on top form as he rehearsed for O2 shows
Posted in Concert, Michael Jackson on the July 2, 2009
Photographer Kevin Mazer took some of the last pictures of Michael Jackson and said the star was on top form as he prepared for the O2 shows.
Michael died suddenly in LA on June 25 after he reportedly suffered a heart attack.
Kevin took some pictures of Michael rehearsing for the shows and said he was looking forward to the London gigs.
Kevin said: “I watched in awe. From what I saw, Michael was back - and in real style. He was amazing, happy and energetic. He performed virtually non-stop for two hours and ran through about a dozen greatest hits.
“He stopped just a couple of times to tweak arrangements and work on moves with dancers. Every track he sang sounded terrific. I honestly could not wait to see the show.”
Kevin said Michael seemed excited about returning to the stage for his London shows.
He said: “He loved going through all the props and was excited about performing Thriller with these zombie puppets. I’m very sad people won’t be able to see it.”
He added: “He was the same old Michael. At one point, he got on a cherry-picker crane and was hoisted over the audience - it was an amazing sight.”
Michael Jackson’s Mom Afraid of Looting
Posted in Beatles, Michael Jackson on the July 2, 2009
The lawyer for Michael Jackson’s mother filed documents in court recently, sounding the alarm that people might try to loot the late singer’s estate. Katherine’s attorney claims that there are numerous bank accounts belonging to the King of Pop that are being controlled by third parties. He says that these accounts need to be controlled so third parties don’t misspend the money. The lawyer also claims that there is some worry about Michael’s stake in the Sony-ATV Music Publishing Catalog, which includes Beatles’ works, that he says is the most important asset in the estate. Since no one is now representing the late singer’s interests, the lawyer wants Katherine to be in charge.
Plans to move Michael Jackson’s body back to Neverland hit legal hitch
Posted in Michael Jackson on the June 30, 2009
The Jackson family plans to move Michael Jackson’s body to Neverland may be in jeopardy.
The family needs a special events permit if they want to hold an open public viewing at the ranch this coming Friday.
They would also need a different permit to bury the pop star’s body in the grounds of Neverland, if they push ahead for a Graceland-style shrine that fans can visit.
But Santa Barbara County officials have confirmed that they have not been approached by Jacko’s family with any request to bury the late singer at his Neverland Ranch in Los Olivos.
Third District Superviser Doreen Farr added: “If… Mr Jackson’s family request assistance, we will help them… We would have to co-ordinate with public safety and public works to ensure nothing happens if they had a public memorial.”
Neverland comprises 2,800 acres of land that is zoned for agriculture and is under an agriculture preserve contract.
Changing the zoning to accommodate a Graceland-type attraction would require a lengthy application process involving a public review, plus a final decision made by the Board of Supervisers.
Residents were approached a long time ago about the ‘Graceland’ idea and rejected it.
Source: Splash News
Michael Jackson’s body on display
Posted in Michael Jackson on the June 30, 2009
It seems that the late pop singer’s family is discussing the idea of having Michael Jackson’s earthly remains put in a glass coffin so that his fans will be able to say their last farewells. However, it seems that this idea has split the family in two. A source related the following about this bold new move: “The idea is causing internal stress within the family. The glass casket idea would create so much public interest it would take time to organize. People would make the pilgrimage from the other side of the world. The question that keeps coming back is, ‘What would Michael have wanted?’” Considering Michael Jackson’s love for his fans, he would’ve probably been ok with the idea, but a new problem arises: given his condition at the time of his death, do they really want everybody to see Michael Jackson like that?
Danny Gokey promoting his home state
Posted in American Idol, Danny Gookey on the June 30, 2009
The former American Idol contestant has recently produced a video in which he is promoting his home state of Milwaukee. After describing the cultural diversity of the state and all the wonderfully attractive tourist attractions, Danny Gokey ends his video with the earth-shattering words “You will not be disappointed.” Most likely not, just like the folks in Milwaukee weren’t disappointed with Danny Gokey’s performance on American Idol. But hey, at least it seems to be getting them some positive publicity and who knows, it might all actually turn up a big tourist number soon. Danny Gokey’s popularity is most likely going to be on the rise after this. Is it sheer coincidence that a new American Idol tour is coming up, a tour at which he will be participating?
Musicians Grieve for Michael Jackson
Posted in Beyonce Knowles, Justin Timberlake, Madonna, Michael Jackson on the June 30, 2009
Some of the greatest musicians have released statements via their reps regarding the death of pop music icon Michael Jackson. Everyone from Madonna to Donny Osmond to Justin Timberlake to Beyonce have something to say about the death of the singer. Madonna seems to have been greatly affected saying “I can’t stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless.” Justin moved me with his words by saying “I can’t find the words right now to express how deeply sadden [sic] I am by Michael’s passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only Pop music, but of all music. He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones.”
Michael Jackson fans offered souvenir tickets
Posted in Concert, Michael Jackson on the June 30, 2009
Fans who bought tickets for Michael Jackson’s concerts are being offered souvenirs instead of their money back.
Promoters for the 50 London concert dates have promised a full refund for tickets.
But they have also given people another option – to get a special souvenir ticket instead of the cash.
Fans forked out around £75 per ticket.
Jacko fan Ava Zadkhorvash, who was second in the queue to get tickets for his concerts bought six of them.
She said: “Of course, like, I want to have the memory because he designed it himself, I’d love to have one but because I’ve got six I don’t think I’ll be keeping all six tickets, I’d like to get one and get my money back on the others.
“But right now we’re not really thinking about the tickets and the money back. We just want any memory.”
Source: Splash News
2009 BET Awards Winners
Posted in Beyonce Knowles, Lil Wayne, Ne-Yo on the June 30, 2009
Full winners list of 2009 BET Awards:
* Video of the Year: Beyonce Knowles - “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)”
* Best Male R&B Artist: Ne-Yo
* Best Female R&B Artist: Beyonce Knowles
* Best Male Hip-Hop Artist: Lil Wayne
* Best Female Hip-Hop Artist: M.I.A.
* Best Group: DAY26
* Best New Artist: Keri Hilson
* Viewer’s Choice: T.I. feat. Rihanna - “Live Your Life”
* Best Collaboration: Jamie Foxx feat. T-Pain - “Blame It”
* Video Director of the Year: Benny Boom
* Centric Award: Jazmine Sullivan
* Best Gospel Artist: Mary Mary
* Best Actor: Will Smith
* Best Actress: Taraji P. Henson
* Best Male Athlete: LeBron James
* Best Female Athlete: Serena Williams
* Humanitarian Award: Alicia Keys and Wyclef Jean
* Lifetime Achievement Award: The O’Jays
Michael Jackson’s personal doctor quizzed for three hours in a Los Angeles police station
Posted in Michael Jackson on the June 29, 2009
Michael Jackson’s personal doctor spent three hours in a Los Angeles police station last night being quizzed by cops.
Dr Conrad Murray – who was with the King Of Pop when he died – spent Saturday afternoon being interviewed in a Los Angeles police station about the circumstances surrounding the pop star’s death.
He was accompanied by his lawyer Ed Chernoff.
Murray’s lawyers have insisted their client is a witness and is not considered a suspect in the Jackson’s death.
A spokesman for Murray’s lawyers, Texas-based firm Stradley, Chernoff & Alford, said last night: “Dr Conrad Murray and Mr Ed Chernoff, of Stradley, Chernoff & Alford, have met with the LAPD for the second time and have answered every and all questions asked by LAPD in an attempt to help piece together the mysteries surrounding the death of Michael Jackson.
“The meeting in Los Angeles today with police investigators lasted three hours.
“During the meeting Dr Murray helped identify the circumstances around the death of the pop icon and clarified some inconsistencies.”
According to reports police, in Los Angeles had struggled to get in touch with the doctor after Jackson died.
His lawyers denied that was the case.
“Dr Murray has been in Los Angeles since the death of Mr Jackson. He rode in the ambulance to the hospital and stayed at the hospital for hours comforting and consoling the Jackson family.
“Investigators say the doctor is in no way a suspect and remains a witness to this tragedy.
“Dr Murray will continue to co-operate fully with the authorities and asks that all keep the Jackson family in their prayers.
“Dr Murray was hired by Michael Jackson to accompany him on his concert tour in May of 2009. Dr Murray has offices in Las Vegas and Houston, Texas. Dr Murray will remain in Los Angeles until investigators no longer need his assistance with the investigation.”
Director of Jacko’s comeback tour reveals singer was ‘beaming with gladness’ the night before he died
Posted in Concert, Michael Jackson on the June 29, 2009
The director of Michael Jackson’s planned comeback tour has revealed the pop star was ‘beaming with gladness’ the night before he died.
Kenny Ortega, a choreographer and movie director whose career highlights include High School Musical, Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour and Dirty Dancing, was with Jacko as he rehearsed at the Staples Centre on Wednesday night.
Ortega, who began working with the singer on the intricate staging four months ago, said he was ‘bursting with enthusiasm’ and personally invested in the production’s most minute details.
He said Jacko did a full run-through of his planned comeback concert with his company - dancers, musicians, singers, aerial performers, choreographers and costumers - who planned to fly to England early next week for final dress rehearsals at London’s O2 Arena, ready for the 50-night sold-out run.
Ortega said: “There were a couple of times when Michael stood at my side and we looked at the stage together and were just beaming with gladness that we had arrived at this place.
“And he was happy. We all felt that and shared that. We were four or five days from finishing in Los Angeles and heading to London and feeling in really good shape.”
Ortega said he had no knowledge of the singer taking any drugs or medication.
He also denied that the slender performer had physically overextended himself by working out four hours a day, six days a week in preparation for the physically taxing concerts.
Randy Phillips, chief executive of AEG Live, the concert promoter that will forfeit the more than $20 million it put into staging Jackson’s comeback, was also among those at Staples Center on Wednesday.
He recalled Jackson being in great spirits, adding: “It was fantastic, he was so great. I got goose bumps.
“It made me realize why I got into this business.
“I take great solace in the pride and confidence he exhibited during production rehearsals on Wednesday night.
“That is the memory I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Source: Splash News
Joe Jonas Rags on Taylor Swift
Posted in Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift on the June 29, 2009
For someone who doesn’t want to have his private affairs out in the open, Joe Jonas just can’t leave well enough alone. At the Jonas Brothers concert in Tulsa, Oklahoma last week, the singer made some impromptu changes to the song ‘Much Better’. Instead of singing the lyrics “now I’m done with super stars,” Joe sang “now I’m done with country stars’. It’s an obvious reference to his ex-girlfriend, country singing cutie Taylor Swift. Nick’s look of utter surprise to the lyrics change made the whole situation funnier. Real mature Joe. I wonder what your current girlfriend Camilla Belle thinks of you rehashing the past.
Adam Lambert Album to be Released This Summer
Posted in Adam Lambert, Album Release, American Idol, Debut Album, album on the June 29, 2009
Adam Lambert has a new single out from his upcoming debut album called ‘On With the Show’ which is expected to be released later this summer. The song is called ‘Want’. It’s a mid-tempo song and is more pop than it is rock. Something is sketchy though as some reports say that this album will be released this summer, which is pretty quick. However, the songs on it were recorded in 2007 and 2008, before Adam was on American Idol. It is also being released by a label other than the one the singer signed on to after coming in 2nd on the show.
Cheryl Cole is reportedly set to take Simon Cowell’s place on the X Factor when he quits, it has been claimed
Posted in Simon Cowell, X Factor on the June 26, 2009
Cheryl Cole is reportedly set to take Simon Cowell’s place on the X Factor when he quits, it has been claimed.
Cheryl, 25, is currently filming her second series of the show after joining the line-up last year. Her act, Alexandra Burke, went on to win the show and Cheryl became the favourite judge with the public.
It is claimed Simon, 49, has made it clear that Cheryl will be the main face of the show when he steps down to set up a global TV empire with Topshop boss Sir Philip Green.
Cheryl and Simon are judges on the hit British talent show along with Aussie singer Dannii Minogue, 37, and Irish music mogul Louis Walsh, 56.
A pal of Cowell’s said: “He has found X Factor increasingly draining and it leaves him little time for serious business. Now he’s decided this will be his last series and he’s moving on.
“In future, he will have a more overseeing role.”
Beyonce: Michael Jackson was ‘incomparable’
Posted in Beyonce Knowles, Michael Jackson on the June 26, 2009
Singer Beyonce said Michael Jackson was “incomparable” and his death is a “tragic loss”.
The 27-year-old singer revealed her grief at the death of the King of Pop, who passed away in LA aged 50 after reportedly suffering a heart attack.
She told Entertainment Tonight: “This is such a tragic loss and a terrible day. The incomparable Michael Jackson has made a bigger impact on music than any other artist in the history of music.”
She added: “He was magic. He was what we all strive to be. He will always be the king of of pop. Life is not about how many breaths you take, but about how many moments in life that take your breath away.
“For anyone who has ever seen, felt, or heard his art, we are all honoured to have been alive in this generation to experience the magic of Michael Jackson. I love you Michael.”
Source: Splash News
Black Eyed Peas’ working requests
Posted in Glastonbury, Music Festivals on the June 26, 2009
The band who will be performing at the famous Glastonbury festival has apparently requested that they be provided with a recording studio on their tour bus while at the festival so that they will be able to continue making their musical genius available to the world. A source said the following about the Black Eyed Peas’ requests: “The band are so excited about performing at Glastonbury. They love to be able to remix and make new tracks wherever they go so they have demanded they have a mini studio on their bus to capture the moment.” This is all probably because will.i.am is expecting inspiration to kick in regarding the small talks he and their manager had with Perez Hilton. And this is how new singles are born it seems.
Michael Jackson’s painkiller use had become life threatening, says family lawyer
Posted in Michael Jackson, Music, Music People on the June 26, 2009
Michael Jackson’s family lawyer says the performer’s reliance on painkillers had become “life threatening”.
Brian Oxman fears the medication may have contributed to the 50-year-old’s death from a suspected heart attack.
The lawyer said: “I don’t know if they are the cause here. I will reserve my conclusions until the toxicology reports and the coroner has made his report before I make any accusations. But I can tell you that if it is as I fear I will not be silent.
“I have been very, very critical of the use of pain medications. I have told people in no uncertain terms that if Michael one day woke up and he was dead I would not be silent, I would not permit this to go unchallenged.
“Michael had fallen from a stage several years ago. He cracked a vertebrae in his back. He also broke his leg and it’s caused him a lot of pain. The result of that is he has taken a lot of pain medications. They’ve been to treat actual pains he’s had, but the use of these medications I felt had become life threatening.”
Source: Splash News