HAPPY NEW YEAR!

To all of my readers around the world....

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Beyonce Performs "The Way We Were" At The Kennedy Center Honors

I know have been hard on Beyonce lately, but this performance definitely helped me soften towards her. The diva performed "The Way We Were" as a tribute to Barbara Streisand, who was being honored by the Kennedy Center.

Her performance was impeccable. Nothing else to say.

Download of the Day 12-31: "Signs" by Bloc Party

This song will probably be forever immortalized by Gossip Girl fans as the song playing when Chuck finally broke down to Blair.

The musical director of the teen drama is a genius, because they couldn't have picked a more fitting song for such an emotional scene.

"Signs", a song from British indie band Bloc Party, is a gentle ballad about the feelings associated with loss. Regret, desperation, reminiscence, denial, and everything in between are explored with a heart-tugging, gentle intensity that would leave the weakest of people emotionally destroyed. The innocent chiming that serves as the main backing emanates this aura of child-like innocence. The aura fades quickly when you listen to the lead singer's sorrow-filled tone as he sings some of the most mournful lyrics you'll probably ever hear. In fact, the level of melancholy reminds me of the exceptional "Boulevard of Broken Dreams". The song has a silent power, one you definitely don't acknowledge until you realize you have played it 30 times straight because of its unbelievable fluidity.

"Signs" is one of those songs that are perfect for soundtracks; despite its meaning, the song is universal. Regardless of musical taste, everyone can connect to the song. It's absolutely brilliant, and I hope we hear more of them in the new year.

Rating: 9/10

The BWU Chart: James Morrison Takes Top Spot, Bloc Pary Debut at #2

THIS WEEK'S NUMBER-ONE SINGLE:

James Morrison has made chart history.

On the last chart week of 2008, Morrison topped the BWU Chart with his single "Broken Strings" with Nelly Furtado, making him the first solo male artist to ever top the chart. Last month, Take That became the first male artists to top the chart with "The Garden". Along with that feat, he is the first artist to ascend to the top in 23 weeks. The last artist to do that was Leona Lewis and "Better In Time", which went to #1 from #11.

Continuing with the male dominance theme of this week's chart, British indie rock band Bloc Party debut at #2 this week with their song "Signs". The song, featured in the latest Gossip Girl episode, nearly missed out on a number-one debut. This week marks the first time that songs by male artists occupied the top two spots of the chart.

Last week's #1, "The Loving Kind" slips to #3, while Leona's "Run" slips to #5. Despite the drop, she gained enough points to break into the 300s. 

Speaking of records, Girls Aloud's "The Promise" has officially surpassed Leona's "Better In Time" to become the most successful song in BWU Chart history, beating her by only four point. "The Promise" holds the #8 spot this week.

To see the full chart, visit http://sites.google.com/site/thebestworstandunbelievable/

2008 BWU AWARDS WINNERS (Part 3)

BEST MOMENT IN POP CULTURE

Barack Obama Wins Presidency

After over a year of campaigning, filled with mud-slinging, amazing speeches, and Sarah Palin, Illinois senator Barack Obama became the first African-American president in United States history. While many will wonder what significance this has on pop culture, this moment will no doubt affect the world I observe. How peeople think, behave, and perform will all change because of this one man, and that, deserves notice.

BEST PERSON OF THE YEAR

Barack Obama

See above.

WORST MOMENT IN POP CULTURE

Jennifer Hudson Family Murders

On October 24th, the pop world was stunned with news that Jennifer Hudson's mother and brother were murdered in their South Side Chicago home. Thoughts and prayers were almost immediately flooded to Hudson, who was celebrating her recent #1 hit "Spotlight" and her film The Secret Life of Bees. To make matters worse, her nephew Julian King was found dead three days later in an SUV. It seems like Hudson is on her way to recovery, but her tragedy will go down as one of the worst in pop culture history.

WORST PERSON OF THE YEAR

Sarah Palin

She was supposed to be the woman who revitalized the Republican base. Instead, she was the woman who cost John McCain the election. Regardless who others blame, its quite obvious the Alaska governor had a huge role in the destruction of McCain. She became a laughingstock, thanks in part to some humiliating interviews with Charlie Gibson and Katie Couric and the brilliance of Tina Fey's impersonation. At the end, her complete ineptitude made the Republican party the bastions of hypocrisy, considering how often they bashed Obama for his lack of experience.

UNBELIEVABLE MOMENT IN POP CULTURE

Mariah Carey Marries Nick Cannon

Out of nowhere it came. Reports came from the Bahamas that mega diva Mariah Carey was getting married. That wasn't the shocking part, though. The mind-blower was that she was marrying Nick Cannon. Yes, Nick Cannon. From Nickelodeon. From Wild 'N Out. Random much? Many have made the "kept man" jokes, so I won't go there. Just begin betting on how long the marriage will last.

MOST ANNOYING PERSON OF THE YEAR

Miley Cyrus

What do Vanity Fair, Disney, Perez Hilton, Ryan Seacrest, and Barbara Walters have in common? They were all talking about Miley Cyrus. Them and virtually everyone else on the planet. The 16-year old stirred things up, and slowly began to make us dislike her. Whether she was slamming Nick Jonas, blaming Annie Leibovitz, or dating a 20-year old, Miley became the person we all talked about, and we hated ourselves for doing it.

2008 BWU AWARDS WINNERS (Part 2)

BEST MALE POP SINGLE

Forever - Chris Brown
Chris Brown delivered "Forever", his best single to date in the spring, fresh off of his success with "With You". The song was surprisingly and refreshingly pop, filled with danceable beats and an infectious hook. Peaking at #2 on the US charts, "Forever" was further affirmation of Brown's staying power.

BEST FEMALE POP SINGLE

Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis
Honestly, what else could it have been? "Bleeding Love" was a tour de force in the pop world this year. Written by hitmaker Ryan Tedder and Jesse McCartney, and sung by the brilliant British songbird Leona Lewis, it was impossible for it to fail. It spent four weeks at the top, and topped charts in over 30 countries. Despite it's global power, this is only the beginning of what looks to be a huge career for Leona.

BEST MALE R&B SINGLE

Miss Independent - Ne-Yo

Ne-Yo received a Grammy nomination for an album about treating women the right way, which is quite a feat considering what fills radio these days. From that album was "Miss Independent", a mid-tempo track about a woman who is completely self-sufficient. It's definitely an easy groove, and it's nice to know that at an R&B song exists that doesn't make girls look like whores and men look like jackasses. Since it was a big hit, I hope others will follow the example. 

BEST FEMALE R&B SINGLE

Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) - Beyonce

This year, Beyonce revealed a "new" side of herself; fiesty, crazy, weave-shaking Sasha Fierce. Although Sasha isn't anything really new, she delivered one of the hottest winter singles. "Single Ladies" is a sassy, energetic, thumping kiss-off to a boyfriend willing to commit. Only Beyonce can take a done-before topic and make it sound fresh. 

BEST ROCK SINGLE

Viva La Vida - Coldplay
Honestly, what else could it have been? A #1 smash, a surprising radio success, and easily their new signature track, "Viva La Vida" truly put Coldplay on the map. The song's captivating lyrics and multi-layered arrangement took the group in uncharted territory, and like true visionaries, they came through better than before, and with a few Grammy noms to boot.

BEST HIP-HOP/RAP SINGLE

Live Your Life - T.I. featuring Rihanna
How many weeks has it been on the top of the chart? That's the question many ask in regards to T.I.'s insanely huge single. The positive lyrics reflect a man evolving, despite a gun chagre ready to lock him up. The hook is memorable. It definitely doesn't hurt to have Rihanna on your track either.All of this make this song an anthem fans will be rapping for T.I as he cools his heels in the clink.

BEST DANCE SINGLE

Just Dance - Lady GaGa

I love being ahead of the times, which I definitely was regarding this artist. She was number-one on The BWU Chart months before she caught onto radio. It still confusing why, since Lady GaGa's debut was virtually perfect. It's fun, quirky, cool, easy to dance to, and surprisingly enough, GaGa is a great singer. What do you get? An ace track from pop's newest disco diva.

2008 BWU AWARDS WINNERS (Part 1)

I would like to thank everyone who participated in the blog/website's first annual BWU Awards. Now, without further ado, here are the winners of the major categories:

BEST SOLO MALE ARTIST
 

Chris Brown
The 19-year old pop star was virtually inescapable this year. He scored three massive Top 3 singles in 2008; the Stargate smash "With You", the dazzling duet with Jordin Sparks "No Air", and the briiliant piece of pop "Forever". When you add the surprisingly dirty "Take You Down", which peaked at #4 on the R&B charts, it's safe to say the Brown ruled the airwaves. So, if Brown is king, then who is his queen?

BEST SOLO FEMALE ARTIST
 
Rihanna
It's only fitting that Chris Brown's counterpart on the radio would be his pop princess girlfriend, Rihanna. She OWNED radio this year, because of her label's choice to release eight singles from 2007's Good Girl Gone Bad.She brought us to the club with "Don't Stop The Music", told bad boyfriends to get lost with "Take a Bow", and creeped us out (in a really good way) with "Disturbia". With single #8 "Rehab" already climbing into the Top 20, Rihanna looks set to rule 2009 as she did 2008.

BEST MALE GROUP/BAND

Coldplay
The alternative rock stars, led by the intriguing Chris Martin, reached new heights this year. Their latest album Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends had the second-biggest opening week sales, and their second single of the same name went to #1 on both sides of the Atlantic, a first for them. Coldplay proved that they could make commercially viable music without losing their own unique point of view, something other artists could learn from these days.

BEST FEMALE GROUP/BAND
 
Girls Aloud
The five British girls had a lot to celebrate this year. They scored an 18th Top 10 single with "Can't Speak French" in March. They helmed a huge stadium tour during the summer. Cheryl Cole scored the biggest gig of her career with The X Factor. To wrap the year up, they released the #1 album Out of Control. Their 19th single, "The Promise", debuted at #1 as well. With all of this success, it just makes the breakup rumors sound all the more farfetched.

ATTENTION: RESULTS HAVE BEEN DELAYED

Sorry for the inconvenience, but the results have been pushed back to 10 eastern. Please check back then to see who has won.

Balthazar Getty Getting Sacked From "Brothers & Sisters"?

Balthazar Getty may soon be getting what thousands of other Americans are fearing they will receive:

A pink slip.

Rumors are surfacing that the actor and producers of his ABC show Brothers & Sisters are planning a storyline that will phase him out. E! Online columnist Marc Malkin reported that sources claim he will be leaving the show, but he won't be killed off. The rumors have been denied by Getty's representative.

The 2008 BWU Awards Results..... Tonight!!

The result for the 2008 BWU Awards will be revealed tonight at 7 pm EST!

The Viewer's Choice awards are still up for voting at the top of the blog, so don't forget to vote if you haven't. It closes on January 4th!

Beyonce, Once Again, Stretches Validity of Her Songwriting Credit

Beyonce Knowles has a little nasty reputation for stealing finding inspiration from other artists, sometimes even herself.

She's also known for gaining songwriting credit where her effort is quite questionable. In fact, her removal from Oscar consideration is because her part in the writing of "Listen" was too minimal to be significant.

Anyone wondering exactly how much she writes on certain songs can find their answet]r below:

It was revealed by Perez Hilton today that one of the best songs from Beyonce's latest album I Am... Sasha Fierce was actually meant for Jon McLaughlin. The song was written by Christopher "Tricky" Stewart and The-Dream. He recorded the brilliant song, but took it off his sophomore effort OK Now. The duo then serviced the track to Beyonce, who took it. She made one change to the song; the original title was "Smack Into You". She changed it to "Smash Into You". She changed one word. Two letters, even.

That's her songwriting credit.

The song became a smash on the BWU Chart, spending six weeks in the Top 10 so far, debuting and peak at #2.

If you listen to both versions, they are virtually the same, with a slight arrangement change. Now I'm not going to say Beyonce stole anything, but for Christ's sake, she should not get paid for changing two letters! That's not real songwriting! It's ridiculous that she's getting credit for virtually no work at all. I love the girl, but she either needs to write more than 5 lines on a song or just let the real songwriters get the sole credit (and pay) they deserve .

Here are the two versions of the song:

Nick Lachey Covers Take That Classic "Patience"

A while back, I raged over the travesty that was Nickelodeon "singer" Miranda Cosgrove desecrating the brilliant Sugababes track "About You Now".

Well, here we go again.

Sort of.

Former 98 Degrees frontman (and Jessica Simspon's ex-husband) Nick Lachey has done something that might get him tarred and feathered across the pond; he covered a Take That song.

Not just any Take That song; he covered their MASSIVE comeback single "Patience".

It sounds terrible on paper, right? Well, here it is:



And here is the 2006 original by the British pop group:



Obviously, I think Take That's version is better, but I won't completely slate Lachey's cover. In fact, considering my expectations, it's actually good. The arrangement's a little too pop-rock for me, and it kind of takes away from the song's meaning, but it's a decent effort. Lachey is quite emotive singing this, which is another surprise. It's definitely leaps and bounds above weepy "What's Left of Me" and that whole album.

Expect Lachey to be assualting airwaves next month. Expect Gary Barlow to be receiving massive royalty checks for next six months.

Blog and Website Revamp Plans for 2009!

I hope all of my readers had a great holiday!

If you're wondering where I have been, I am currently planning a MASSIVE changing of both the blog and the website. February 28th will be one-yea blog anniversary, so I want to celebrate it accordingly.

The first major change will be arriving this coming week. I have officially moved the BWU Website to Google Sites. Everything, including the BWU Chart (formerly the BWU Hot 40), will be moved to the new website, with a tentative debut date of tomorrow (the date of the BWU Awards announcements).

All though its not complete, if you want to take a preview, visit this website (don't forget to bookmark/favorite it: it's an unattractive URL): http://sites.google.com/site/thebestworstandunbelievable/

The blog won't be moving, but it will see some big changes, layout-wise. I'm also planning a few blog specials too, so definitely keep a look out.

I would like to thank everyone for reading and enjoying my stuff this year. It's been a lot of fun.

Looking forward to '09!

Voting for the 2008 BWU Awards is Closed!

The BWU Awards voting is over!

Thanks to all who casted their votes; it was greatly appreciated!

Check back on Sunday December 29th to see who won!

North American Release Date for Pokemon Platinum Announced!

 

Pokefans, mark your calendars for MARCH 22ND, 2009!

That, is the release date of Pokemon Platinum, the requisite third wheel to the enormously popular Diamond and Pearl versions.

Nintendo America officially announced the release date after Circuit City's website accidentally leaked it.

Will you be buying it? 

Here's An Idea: My Plan To Help Girls Aloud Break The United States

British girl group Girls Aloud revealed recently that they were hesitant in trying to break the US market; Nadine Coyle remarked in RWD Magazine that she thought there was a lot of "crap" involved.

As a US fan of Girls Aloud, it makes me unhappy that they don't think it's worth it coming across the pond. However, hope may not be lost. Here is how I think they should attack the States:

• Compile the best tracks of Tangled Up and Out of Control and make a US-only album with a new title - The only albums not released in the United States already are their last two, which happen to be their best. I suggest pulling a Robbie Williams and compiling the best of the two records into a whole new one, and retitle it. Name it something like "Tangled Control". That way, their US debut will be a massive critical darling (aka Grammy favorite).

• Choose "Call The Shots" as the lead single - I mean, it is only one of the best pop singles of the decade. I cannot imagine any radio station, especially Z100, turning this mid-tempo electro genius away. Easy US #1.

• Promotion, promotion, promotion - This may be the taxing issue, but honestly, there are a few choice programs that will bring them to US audiences easily: Oprah, The Today Show, and the juggernaut American Idol. Appearing on the last will nearly guarantee a #1 single on iTunes

• Choosing a brilliant second single - They have tons of options, but I would choose something that shows their variety and their radio appeal. My suggestions: "The Promise", "Sexy! No No No..." or "Close To Love". Even better, a re-recorded version of "Something Kinda Oooh".

If Girls Aloud were to follow this formula, I cannot imagine US failure. I mean, if Adele, Estelle, Leona Lewis, and Coldplay could do it, why can't the best girl group in England?

BWU HOT 40: Girls Aloud Score Christmas Number One, James Morrison Comes In Second

THE CHRISTMAS NUMBER-ONE

The first BWU Hot 40 Christmas chart has been released today, and Girls Aloud have claimed the Christmas #1 of 2008.

"The Loving Kind", which has spent 3 non-consecutive weeks at the top previously, sat at the top again this week. The song fought off serious competition from James Morrison and Nelly Furtado's "Broken Strings", which shot up from #10 to #2. Girls Aloud have now spent a combined total of 10 weeks on the top of the chart, more than any other artist in chart history.

Katy Perry's "Thinking of You" rockets up 24 spots this week, from #29 to #5, reaching a new peak thanks to the release of the music video. Also influenced by music video releases are David Archuleta and Beyonce; Archie's "A Little Too Not Over You" moves up to #24, and Beyonce's "Halo" and "Diva" debuted at #8 and #26 respectively.

The full chart can be accessed at the BWU website at brandonbestworst.webs.com

Eartha Kitt Passes Away

Entertainer Eartha Kitt passed away today at 81, according to her publicist, after a surprising bout with colon cancer.

Her death comes as a shock, considering how busy she appeared to be. Six weeks ago, she was filming a special for PBS, with an expected air date of February 2009.

Kitt is an pop culture icon, known for her trademark purr when she sang, most famously on the holiday track "Santa Baby". She also played Catwoman on the TV adaptation of Batman.

Merry Christmas!!!

To all my readers, around the world, I want to wish you a very merry Christmas! I hope your holidays bring you joy and happiness!

Music Video Premiere: "Diva" by Beyonce

Along with "Halo", Beyonce also released the video for her single "Diva", which is from the "Sasha Fierce" side of the album.

This video is OUT THERE. Really. Between the mannequins and the weird Kanye-style glasses and the song itself, you would think that "Sasha" is some crazy schizo chick. One more little gripe; nearly EVERYTHING in that video I have seen from other artists, including the aforementioned Kanye and Kylie Minogue.

Hey, Beyonce doesn't call herself a diva for nothing.

Music Video Premiere: "Thinking of You" by Katy Perry

Katy Perry premiered her video for new single "Thinking of You" today on iTunes and its the best she has ever done.

The video is set in the 40s, where Perry's lover is serving overseas in the war. While she tries to move on with some other man, she is still reminded of her true love, who ends up as a casualty.

Anyone who believed that Katy Perry was a novelty one-hit wonder should begin frying that crow, because  this video and song proves she's here to stay. It's a heartbreaking, beautifully shot video with a great storyline. Katy (who I always believed was born in the wrong time, style-wise) looks outstanding in this time period. "Thinking of You" is definitely a contender for Best Video of 2009.

Music Video Premiere: "Halo" by Beyonce

R&B megastar Beyonce has just released the videos for second singles, "Halo" and "Diva". "Halo" is being touted as the "Bleeding Love" of 2009, and for good reason. It's a sweeping R&B ballad that will surely top the charts. The video is actually stunning. Trying to keep with the title of the song, the clip is bathed in soft light, creating this ethereal glow. The video co-stars actor Michael Ealy, and the two have very good chemistry on screen. Very good video for Bey.

Music Video Premiere: "A Little Too Not Over You" by David Archuleta

Last week, David Archuleta released the video for his new single "A Little Too Not Over You", the second from his self-titled debut.

Well, I didn't think it was possible, but Archuleta looks even younger than he usually does. Maybe it's the hair, and the babyface. It's ironic because this video has a bit more maturity involved (although all of cutesy pictures chip away at that aim). I liked it better than "Crush", so bravo Archie.

To watch the video, watch below:

iTunes Genius Test (Part 3: Girls Aloud's Call The Shots)

The "Call The Shots" Playlist

Parent Song: "Call The Shots" by Girls Aloud (only one of the best pop songs in the last 10 years)

The Playlist

1. Call The Shots - Girls Aloud
2. About You Now - Sugababes
3. Black and Gold - Sam Sparro
4. Home - Westlife
5. Warwick Avenue - Duffy
6. Foundations - Kate Nash
7. Sweet About Me - Gabriella Cilmi
8. Sex On Fire - Kings of Leon
9. LDN - Lily Allen
10. Can't Speak French - Girls Aloud
11. Patience - Take That
12. The World Should Revolve Around Me - Little Jackie
13. Shut Up and Let Me Go - The Ting Tings
14. Leave Right Now - Will Young
15. Piece of Me - Britney Spears
16. Sexy! No No No... - Girls Aloud
17. Push The Button - Sugababes
18. 2 Hearts - Kylie Minogue
19. Rule The World - Take That
20. With Every Heartbeat - Robyn
21. Love Today - Mika
22. I Think We're Alone Now - Girls Aloud
23. Valerie - Mark Ronson and Amy Winehouse
24. Mercy - Duffy
25. Chasing Pavements - Adele

What I Was Expecting: Storming dance-pop tracks, and maybe a few other British songs, and at least five GA tracks

What I Got: Essentially a "Best of British" list from the last two year, and four GA tracks

What It Says: British music is very eclectic, very different, and very very cool

Rating: 4/10

iTunes Genius Test (Part 2: Coldplay's Viva La Vida)

The "Viva La Vida" Playlist

Parent Song: "Viva La Vida" by Coldplay (their first #1 single, easily my favorite song of theirs)

The Playlist:

1. Viva La Vida - Coldplay
2. Disturbia - Rihanna
3. Stop and Stare - OneRepublic
4. When I Grow Up - The Pussycat Dolls
5. Won't Go Home Without You - Maroon 5
6. Tattoo - Jordin Sparks
7. Piece of Me - Britney Spears
8. Realize - Colbie Caillat
9. First Time - Lifehouse
10. The Way I Am - Ingrid Michaelson
11. When You're Gone - Avril Lavigne
12. Hot N Cold - Katy Perry
13. Look After You - The Fray
14. Thriller - Michael Jackson
15. (You Want To) Make a Memory - Bon Jovi
16. Wake Up Call - Maroon 5
17. Chasing Pavements - Adele
18. Bottle It Up - Sara Bareilles
19. Hollywood's Not America - Ferras
20. Shake It - Metro Station
21. Feedback - Janet Jackson
22. Say - John Mayer
23. How Far We've Come - Matchbox Twenty
24. I Kissed a Girl - Katy Perry
25. Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis

What I Was Expecting: A list filled with alt-rock/pop songs, and maybe a few regular contemporary rock/pop songs. Two more songs from Coldplay

What I Got: A group of '07 and '08 smash hits, some quirky one-hit wonders, and "Thriller" (what the hell?).

What It Says: The aforementioned years were filled with different genres of music, and somehow, Britney and Coldplay work together.

Rating: 4/10

The iTunes Genius Test (Part 1)

The biggest addition to iTunes 8 that had everybody buzzing was the iTunes "Genius", a program that provided you with perfect playlists based off of selected songs and recommendations that made you spend more money.

After giving it a few months to fully adjust, I have decided to give it an official spin. I chose 5 songs, completely different from each other, and tested how well the "Genius" could make playlists based off of them. Here they are, with ratings.

The "Vision of Love" Playlist

Parent Song - "Vision of Love" by Mariah Carey (The first of eighteen #1 singles. In my opinion, it still ranks in the Top 3 of her best songs ever)

The Playlist:

1. Vision of Love - Mariah Carey
2. Hold On - En Vogue
3. Breathe Again - Toni Braxton
4. Weak - SWV
5. Creep - TLC
6. Rub You The Right Way - Johnny Gill
7. Can't Take That Away - Mariah Carey
8. Can You Stand The Rain - New Edition
9. I'm Going Down - Mary J. Blige
10. For You I Will - Monica
11. You're Making High - Toni Braxton
12. Free Your Mind - En Vogue
13. Have You Ever - Brandy
14. Rhythm of the Night - DeBarge
15. You Gotta Be - Des'ree
16. Underneath the Stars - Mariah Carey
17. End of the Road - Boyz II Men
18. Anytime - Brian McKnight
19. I'm Your Baby Tonight - Whitney Houston
20. Fallin' - Alicia Keys
21. Somewhere Out There - Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram
22. You Make Wanna - Usher
23. Through The Fire - Chaka Khan
24. Always Be My Baby - Mariah Carey
25. Un-Break My Heart - Toni Braxton

What I Was Expecting: A collection of of 80's and 90's R&B music, and more than a few Mariah Carey songs.

What I Got: A collection of 80's, 90's, and early millennium R&B music, and four Mariah Carey songs.

What Does It Say: Whitney Houston is strictly a pop diva, Toni Braxton is a R&B standard, and Diane Warren is the queen of pop ballads

Rating: 9.5/10

Download of the Day 12-18: "Broken Strings" by James Morrison featuring Nelly Furtado

James Morrison caught my ear a while back with his hit single "Wonderful World", not because the song was all that good, but because his voice had this very distinctive smoky soul sound to it.

After fading from my radar for awhile, he came back even stronger with his new single "Broken Strings", which performed on ITV's Girls Aloud Party (thanks again YouTube). Like many people after seeing the show, I immediately went to find the original version from his album Songs for You, Truths for Me.

In the album version, he sings with Nelly Furtado, which is quite an odd choice considering how far she has strayed from Morrison's sound lately (you can thank Timbaland for that, by the way). Surprisingly, their voices compliment each other very well. Morrison is clearly the standout here, delivering one of the passionate vocals (that actually sound good) I have heard from a male artist this year. Furtado is a very good support here, and the lyrics they sing together sound almost seamless. It's easy to believe they are in a struggling relationship, trying to "play on broken strings", even though its over.

The song fits perfectly into the new soul-rock genre that's making its way into the chart, but there is something more that makes this song special. It all lies in what caught my attention the first time, James Morrison's voice. More soulful than some of the best R&B artists today, I'm hoping he can stick around for the long haul.

RATING: 8/10

DOTD Holiday Edition 12-18: "Christmas Tree" by Lady GaGa

Whenever pop music becomes monotonous, Lady GaGa comes to liven things up.

Even the usually-stale genre of holiday music has been "GaGa"-fied. "Christmas Tree" may be billed as a holiday song, but she is talking about a different kind of "holiday cheer", if you know what I mean. What else could she mean when she sings "my christmas tree's delicious"?

The song, like many GaGa tracks, is a buzzing electro stomper, adorned with the occasional jingling bells. The beat is ridiculously danceable, the vocals are robotic, but still fun, and the lyrics are dripping with more innuendo than tinsel on a Christmas tree. Trust me, you'l never use the holiday phrase "fa-la-la-la" the same way again after hearing the song.

Leave it to 2008's most interesting and fresh artist to close it so well. Here's to more GaGa in 2009!

Could Jeff Buckley Steal Christmas #1 From X Factor Winner?

Fourteen years after the release of the song, a group is trying to get Jeff Buckley's brilliant cover of "Hallelujah" to the top of the UK Singles chart, giving him the coveted "Christmas number one" title.

A Facebook group has been created to drum up support for Buckley's version, which was listed in Rolling Stone as one of the best songgs in history. The track would be going up head-to-head with X Factor winner Alexandra Burke's version, which was revealed to be the fastest-selling download in history.

Earlier this year, Buckley's "Hallelujah" went straight up to the top of the US iTunes chart after Jason Castro performed it during the semi-finals of American Idol. Had the song been officially re-released, it most likely would've gone to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Instead, it charted at the top of the Hot Digital Songs chart.

Despite challenges from both Buckley and Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke will likely take the Christmas number one single. The single sold over 105,000 copies on its first day of release, prior to the physical CD release tomorrow.

Leona Lewis' "Run" On US and Canandian iTunes TODAY!

 

Leona Lewis' version of "Run" has been released TODAY on iTunes in the United States and in Canada!

Download it today!

Britney Spears To Film Second "Womanizer" Video In India?

Britney Spears is reportedly lending a hand to the ravaged country of India by visiting and shooting a second "Womanizer" video for her fans there.

The Daily Star reports that Britney wants to boost India's image after the devastating Mumbai terrorist attacks last month by filming a new video for her hit single "Womanizer". She was inspired to do so after befriending Sandip Soparrkar, an Indian choreographer who also has worked with Madonna. He will be working on the new video, which is supposed to focus on all of India's amazing qualities.

In the Sunday edition of the British newspaper, Britney was quoted as saying: “I love India. Its culture is so rich and colourful. I’m hoping to visit in the near future. I’d like to thank my Indian fans for loving my music. I will do everything I can to help. And I am so happy that Sandip is doing the second video for Womanizer.”

Her new album, Circus, sold over 500,000 copies in the United States last week, and her new single "Circus" debuted at #3, her highest debut ever.

X Factor's Alexandra Has Fastest Selling Download In History

Alexandra Burke hasn't been the X Factor winner a whole week and she's already breaking chart records.

Her winners' single, a cover of the Leonard Cohen clasic "Hallelujah", is the fastest-selling download single in European music history. On its first day of release, the track sold a mind-blowing 105,000 copies, zooming past the previous record-holder, Leona Lewis. Her debut, "A Moment Like This" brought in 82,000 copies in its first week.

She is now a certain lock for the UK Christmas number one, especially after the physical single is released on Wednesday. Retailer HMV has reportedly a large number of the CD in order to meet heavy demand. They have shown record-high sales of the download from their website.

Alexandra's closest competition appears to be Geraldine McQueen and her Gary Barlow-penned Christmas track "Once Upon A Christmas Song".

Music Video Premiere: "Hallelujah" by Alexandra Burke

Today saw the music video premiere of X Factor winner Alexandra Burke's single "Hallelujah":



It's a typical competition winner video, and the bevy of candles surrounding her is a bit of a fire hazard, but she looks absolutely stunning.

Leona Lewis To Release "Run" In America on December 30th

According to Amazon.com, the single mix of Leona Lewis' UK #1 smash "Run" is getting released here in the United States on December 30th. Although originally not meant as a single, demand for the Snow Patrol cover caused to great outperform other single "Forgive Me", which peaked at #5 in the UK.

There is no word whether or not "Run" will be released to radio formats yet; the next radio single is expected to be "I Will Be", with an adds date of January 9th.

Check out iTunes and Amazon.com for the single on December 30th.

Battle Brewing Over Heath Ledger Golden Globe Acceptance

He hasn't even won the award yet!

According to the New York Daily News, there is a behind-the-scenes between the late Heath Ledger's family and Warner Bros. studio over who will accept the Best Supporting Actor award, should he win it.

While the family wants Kim Ledger, Heath's father, to receive the award, the studio wants ex-fiancee Michelle Williams to receive it in his daughter Matilda's honor.

A friend of the family told the newspaper that Michelle's attending "doesn't make sense", and that even director Christopher Nolan and co-star Christian Bale would be better recipients over her.

Well, first off, the man (may he rest in peace) hasn't even won the award yet! It's kind of ridiculous to fight over something that has a good possibility of not happening. If it does happen (which I do hope, since Ledger was brilliant as The Joker), I think that a joint receiving by Michelle and Kim would probably be the most appropriate since they both represent his family (Michelle for Matilda). Fighting over who would receive an award does nothing to honor his memory.

Will Mariah's Oscar "Dream" Come True?

Pop diva Mariah Carey has thrown her hat into the Oscar game.

The lead song from her film Tennessee, "Right To Dream" is hoping to be a contender for an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Many pop artists have been nominated, and even won, the award, including Stevie Wonder, Melissa Etheridge, Phil Collins, and Eminem. It wouldn't be Mariah's first foray into the Oscar world; her duet with Whitney Houston "When You Believe" was nominated in 1998. It would, however, be her first real nomination. It would finally solidify her as a serious music artist, an accolade many (including the aforementioned Eminem) have tried to snatch away from her.

"Right to Dream" is certainly new territory for the singer. Lately, Mariah has relied heavily on tons of production to accentuate her trademark voice. Here, its just the voice and Willie Nelson's guitar strumming. No drum machines, pianos, or T-Pain. The idea of a stripped-down Mariah (get your minds out of the gutter) is quite exciting considering how far she has deviated from the musical style that made her famous. While she's not singing on a lush ballad filled with ear-splitting whistle register note, this is the Mariah that has garnered her millions of fans around the world; the Mariah who just sang, the Mariah didn't rely on others to bolster her music. The song itself is a tender, country-tinged ballad (the movie is called Tennessee) about facing tough times to acheive dreams. The subject matter isn't anything new to Mariah, so it's expected that its emotional and filled with metaphor. The combination of sorrowful music and hopeful lyrics has a pretty strong effect, which is hightened by her surprisingly strong, but restrained vocals. Accused of oversinging for most of her career, Mariah puts aside the posturing to deliver a story of strength through struggle, a powerful one at that.

The nominees for Best Original Song will be announced on January 22nd, so we can only speculate about her chances of getting a shot at the little gold man. However, it isn't a long shot to hear Mariah's name. In fact, its a very strong possibility.

Rating: 7.5/10

Clint Eastwood to America: Man Up!

Movie legend Clint Eastwood has blasted America as a place filled with overly sympathetic, over-analyzing whimps in the January issue of Esquire Magazine.

The 78-year old Oscar winner, who makes his last acting turn in the film Gran Torino, blames the rising fascination with the "meaning of life" for people losing their toughness.

In the article, Eastwood says, "Everyone's become used to saying, 'Well, how do we handle it psychologically?' In those days, you punched the bully back and duked it out." He also decries America's apparent obsession with worrying: "You can't stop everything from happening. But we've gotten to a point where we're certainly trying. If a car doesn't have 400 air bags in it, then it's no good."

Eastwood's childhood, as he recounts, was more defensive than it is now: "I was a shy kid, but a lot of my childhood was spent punching the bullies out." Speaking of his youth, he explains, "People barely got by. People were tougher then."

Despite his belief that America is getting soft, he doesn't appreciate the idea of body piercings, an endeavor that requires a pretty thick skin (no pun intended). "What kind of masochism is that? Is it to show you can take it?"

It seems like Eastwood's tough skin will help him through the current awards season; despite being an awards darling, his film Gran Torino was snubbed by the Foreign Press Association for a Golden Globe nod.

New Music Alert: X Factor Champ Alexandra's Album Due In March

According to UK retailers HMV and Play.com, the newly-crown X Factor winner Alexandra Burke will see her album released as soon as March of next year.

The set release date is a departure from the nearly year-long sabbatical from public view that previous winners Leona Lewis and Leon Jackson have taken.

It may seem odd, but there are many possible reasons for the choice. For one, Leon Jackson's period from winning to release may have damaged his selling potential; his album peaked at a paltry #4 position. Syco (the record label that Alexandra is signed to) probably wants to capitalize on the popularity she has now instead of waiting.

Then, there are the "Leona" factors, so to speak. No contestant until Alexandra has had the potential global success that Leon has had over the last two years. It is possible that pushing up the release date in the UK makes it easier for Alex to attack the global markets, especially the notoriously difficult US market. By Christmas '09, the single releases would be more evened out around the world, preventing leaks from other countries and maximizing sales.

Then there is the other Leona factor. The megastar announced her second album release for November 2009, the same month that past winners' albums have been released. Since Leona is the biggest act Simon has ever had on his label, Alex's earlier release date could be seen as a way to avoid a massive chart battle that would most likely see Leona win.

Either way, it works out well for everybody that Alexandra Burke's album will be coming earlier than expected. She is ready to make a massive pop album, and we are ready to hear it.

BWU Hot 40: Girls Aloud Reclaim Top Spot, Brandy Moves Up

THIS WEEK'S #1 SINGLE

Girls Aloud reign again!

The BWU award-nominated British girl group return to the #1 spot on this week's BWU Hot 40 with their upcoming single "The Loving Kind". The song originally debuted on the top six weeks ago, but saw a small drop. It rebounded last week, and it is now the first song in chart history to have a second run at #1. Their six-week #1 "The Promise" slips out of the Top 5 to #6.

Brandy sees a nice increase this week with "Long Distance", which moves up to #3 from its debut at #7. Keeping Brandy from the #2 slot is Leona Lewis' "Run".

Last week's #1, Take That's "The Garden", fell to #4 this week, tying Rihanna's "Disturbia" for the biggest drop from the top spot ever. Their lead single "Greatest Day" completely leaves the Top 10 for the first time, falling to #15 from #6. Their other charting album track, "How Did It Come To This", moves up to #28.

This week's Hot Shot Debut belongs to Jazmine Sullivan's "Bust Your Windows" at #7. Also debuting this week is Lily Allen's "The Fear" at #9, Britney's "If U Seek Amy" at #19, and Gabriella Cilmi's "Sweet About Me" at #32.

This week's steepest drop belongs to Boyzone; their comeback single "Love You Anyway" plummets 13 spots from #16 to #29. Their current single "Better" replaces it, falling out of the Top 10 from #8

The BWU Guide To... UK Christmas #1 Singles (Part 2)

Here's Part 2 of the BWU Guide to UK Christmas #1 singles:

2003 - "Mad World" by Gary Jules and Michael Andrews

The holidays are focused on peace and happiness. Well, peace and happiness went on vacation in 2003 when Gary Jules and Michael Andrews' re-make of the Tears for Fears hit "Mad World" from the Donnie Darko soundtrack hit the top of the charts. The song is a completely stripped down version of the 80s synth classic, which makes the song more haunting and beautiful at the same time. Although not the typical Christmas number one, it is truly well deserved.

2004 - "Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid 20

20 years prior, Sir Bob Geldof gathered the biggest names in pop music to record a charity single for people starving in Ethiopia. The single was a smash success, topping the Christmas charts easily and selling millions for charity. 20 years later, he did the same thing again, with similar results. The remake, featuring artists like Robbie Williams and the Sugababes, spent four weeks at the top, including Christmas week. This marks the third time the song would top the Christmas chart (it did so in '84 and '89).

2005 - "That's My Goal" - Shayne Ward

It all began with this guy. The second X Factor winner scored a Christmas number one with his coronation song "That's My Goal", a very nice, although boring pop ballad that crazed fans would eat up in a hurry. They definitely did, with first week sales of 742,000 copies, an automatic platinum certification. The song's success was a guarantee that future X Factor winner's singles would top the Christmas chart as well.

2006 - "A Moment Like This" - Leona Lewis

Before mega-stardom, Leona Lewis was a simple X Factor winner with a coronation single, a cover of Kelly Clarkson's "A Moment Like This". The slightly underwhelming track was downloaded 50,000 times in 30 minutes, making it the fastest-selling single in music history. Honestly, no one could've guessed Leona would continue this kind of record-breaking. Luckily for us, Leona has plenty of other hits that we can fawn over. It just sucks that the next single kept the brilliant "Bleeding Love" from getting the Christmas number one of 2007.

2007 - "When You Believe" - Leon Jackson

Leon Jackson scored his Christmas number one like the two before him; by winning The X Factor. His single, within a week, became the fourth best-selling single in the UK, despite the song being quite bland compared to the amazing original. Despite the initial success, Leon has seen his chart fortune slightly dwindle, evidenced by his disastrous loss in the chart battle against Geraldine McQueen. Still, at least his name is forever recorded in the Christmas books.

Chances are, X Factor winner Alexandra Burke will take the coveted title with her single "Hallelujah", but she shouldn't get too comfy; she has some serious competition. Still, if you look at the last three X-mas #1s, you should have a pretty good guess of who will have a happy Christmas.

The BWU Guide to... UK Christmas #1 Singles (Part 1)

Having a single go to the top of the music charts is a major achievement for an artist. In the UK, however, that achievement is heightened during the holiday season. In fact, many artists and their record companies strive to get their songs to the top spot during the week of Christmas. This chart battle has become known as the Christmas number-one.

We don't focus on it in the States, but across the pond, going to #1 during the Christmas week is HUGE. It guarantees maximum sales, and plus, it's cool to have your song declared a Christmas number-one.

You would think that only the best songs are given the coveted crown, but sometimes, that just isn't the case. Other times, however, the Christmas number one belongs to a massive single. Here is a look at the Christmas #1s from the past 10 years:

1998 - "Goodbye" by Spice Girls


For many people, the Spice Girls are a joke. Yet, they have the distinction of having three consecutive Christmas number one single. Their last was in 1998 with "Goodbye", their unofficial bon voyage to quitting band member Geri Halliwell (aka Ginger). It's an earnest pop song about saying goodbye, and although it's a bit sad for the festive season, it sounds like it was made for Christmas playlists.




1999 - "I Have a Dream"/"Seasons in the Sun" by Westlife


In 1999, Irish boy band Westlife were gods in the eyes of teenagers, pretty much meaning they would buy virtually anything they would put out. It was this crazed consumerism that gave them a string of seven consecutive #1 singles, including this double-A side number one. Their ABBA cover "I Have a Dream" is insanely cheesy, but through festive eyes, it's kind of  fun pop brilliance. "Seasons in the Sun" is a hideous misstep in their mostly unblemished career. Not even Rudolph and his red nose could brighten the darkness that song creates.

2000 - "Can We Fix It?" by Bob The Builder

An anomaly. That is the ONLY way to explain the Bob The Builder theme's arrival at the top of the UK charts. The song that should've never been a single beat Westlife to the top, breaking their #1 single streak. For that reason alone, this song should be demonized (or celebrated, depending on how you feel about Westlife). Apparently, UK shoopers regret their choice; the song was voted one of the worst #1s in a Channel 4 poll.

2001 - "Somethin' Stupid" - Robbie Williams and Nicole Kidman

Robbie Williams could do no wrong at one point. Want proof? His traditional pop/jazz duet with Oscar winner Nicole Kidman "Somethin' Stupid" topped the Christmas chart in 2001. The timing was pretty perfect for Nicole; she had proven her singing chops in her Oscar-nominated turn in Moulin Rouge!, and she was still in the process of separating herself from her mega star husband Tom Cruise. What better way to re-establish yourself than with a very sweet and pleasant collaboration with pop music's bad boy? How about winning an Oscar (something Tom has yet to do) one year later?

2002 - "Sound of the Underground" - Girls Aloud

Before they would gain pop credibility with songs like "Biology" and "Call The Shots", Girls Aloud were just another manufactured pop group from reality television who beat their male counterparts One True Voice to the top of Christmas charts with their debut. Their success set the standard for future reality TV monopolies of the charts during the holidays. Despite the #1 hit, many were betting that they would be over very soon. Well, 6 years and 19 Top 10 singles later, they are alive and kicking. I hope serious money wasn't lost

Song Review: "Hallelujah" by Alexandra Burke

The winner of the popular British talent competition The X Factor has been chosen, and thankfully, the public chose the best contestant, Alexandra Burke.

Burke has a smolder in her voice that I haven't heard since the days of Toni Braxton. As seen in her performances, she's an extremely versatile performer who could virtually sing anything.

Still, it should come to the surprise of no one that instead of capitalizing on her abilities, the producers gave the future pop star a cliched song to serve as her coronation single.

Let me make myself clear here; Jeff Buckley's "Hallelujah" is not cliche at all. In fact, it is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard in my entire life. What is cliche is why they chose the song. The song's title and message is easy to sell in the crucially lucrative Christmas market. The song choice feels extremely insincere, which is very sad since Buckley's version is brilliant because of the singer's heartbreaking sincerity. It's almost like they're robbing his memory somehow.

Let me preface this by saying that Alexandra Burke is an absolutely brilliant singer who should definitely follow Leona onto massive global success. That said, her version of "Hallelujah" misses the original intention completely. The tenderness and sensitivity that made Buckley's version so ethereal is completely absent in her rendition. The arrangement and her voice are to blame for that; both are so strong and powerful that it turns the song into an exhibition of bombast. By the time the song hits its crescendo and the unnecessary choir is thrown in, you can't help but slightly, ever so slightly, roll your eyes just a bit. Her voice does sound phenomenal, but it doesn't quite fit. The vocal delivery should be passionate, but also tender and sweet. It's a shame, but her voice kind of takes away from the lyrics of the song. It's very possible that if the arrangement was screwed up changed, that her voice could've delivered it, but the song's continual build forces her voice to build with it, regardless of the song.

To her credit, there are some wonderful sounding moments on this song, particularly in the ill-advised final chorus. The tone of her voice is beautiful, and the power notes she hits are affecting. If you were to ignore what she was saying, it sounds perfect. Unfortunately for the X Factor winner, Buckley's version will always be waiting in the wings, and the comparisons are practically guaranteed. The musical purists will decry her version as an assault on his memory and claim that its another example of the music competition's ineptitude.

Whether or not all of that's true, one thing is for certain. The public should be proud of voting an amazing singer and a genuinely nice girl through to pop stardom. While her first single may not be up to par (and the blame should be solely laid on Cowell's shoulders), it shouldn't stop her from being the global success that the world is waiting for her to be.

Rating: 6/10

ALEXANDRA BURKE WINS THE X FACTOR 2008!

Congratulations to the brilliant Alexandra Burke for winning British talent competition The X Factor!

In a showdown with boyband JLS, Burke took the crown, becoming the second female to win the competition.

Alexandra Burke originally tried out for the show three years ago, but mentor Louis Walsh booted her before the live shows, nearly derailing her career. Now, she has proven him wrong to become the show's star.

Her winner's single, a cover of "Hallelujah", will be released online Sunday and in the UK shops on Wednesday. She will more than likely have the UK Christmas number one single.

Once again, congrats to Alexandra!

The 2009 Golden Globe Nominees Announced!

The nominees for the 2009 Golden Globes have been announced, and there are really no suprises:

Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were both nominated in the Lead categories for their respective films The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Changeling. Among the others nominated in the Lead categories are Meryl Streep for Doubt, Sean Penn for Milk, Anne Hathaway for Rachel Getting Married and Frank Langella for Frost/Nixon.

Building on the Oscar buzz from this summer is Heath Ledger, whose universally celebrated performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight garnered him a nod for Best Supporting Actor. In that category also is Tom Cruise and Robert Downey Jr. for Tropic Thunder, Ralph Fiennes for The Duchess, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman for Doubt.

For the full list, look below:

BEST MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
The Reader
Revolutionary Road
Slumdog Millionaire

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married
Angelina Jolie, Changeling
Meryl Streep, Doubt
Kristin Scott Thomas, I’ve Loved You So Long
Kate Winslet, Revolutionary Road

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA
Leonardio DiCaprio, Revolutionary Road
Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon
Sean Penn, Milk
Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Mickey Rourke, The Wrestler

BEST MOTION PICTURE –  COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Burn After Reading
Happy-Go-Lucky
In Bruges
Mamma Mia!
Vicky Cristina Barcelona

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Rebecca Hall, Vicky Christina Barcelona
Sally Hawkins, Happy-Go-Lucky
Frances McDormand, Burn After Reading
Meryl Streep, Mamma Mia!
Emma Thompson, Last Chance Harvey

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Javier Bardem, Vicky Christina Barcelona
Colin Farrell, In Bruges
James Franco, Pineapple Express
Brendan Gleeson, In Bruges
Dustin Hoffman, Last Chance Harvey

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Bolt
Kung Fu Panda
Wall-E

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM
The Baader Meinhof Complex (Germany)
Everlasting Moments (Sweden/Denmark)
Gomorrah (Italy)
I’ve Loved You So Long (France)
Waltz With Bashir (Israel)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE
Amy Adams, Doubt
Penelope Cruz, Vicky Christina Barcelona
Viola Davis, Doubt
Marisa Tomei, The Wrestler
Kate Winslet, The Reader

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE
Tom Cruise, Tropic Thunder
Robert Downey Jr., Tropic Thunder
Ralph Fiennes, The Duchess
Philip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt
Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight

BEST DIRECTOR – MOTION PICTURE
Danny Boyle, Slumdog Millionaire
Stephen Daldry, The Reader
David Fincher, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon
Sam Mendes, Revolutionary Road

BEST SCREENPLAY – MOTION PICTURE
Simon Beaufoy, Slumdog Millionaire
David Hare, The Reader
Peter Morgan, Frost/Nixon
Eric Roth, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
John Patrick Shanley, Doubt

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE – MOTION PICTURE
Alexandre Desplat, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Clint Eastwood, Changeling
James Newton Howard, Defiance
A.R. Rahman, Slumdog Millionaire
Hans Zimmer, Frost/Nixon

BEST ORIGINAL SONG – MOTION PICTURE
a. “DOWN TO EARTH” — WALL-E
Music by: Peter Gabriel, Thomas Newman
Lyrics by: Peter Gabriel
b. “GRAN TORINO” — GRAN TORINO
Music by: Clint Eastwood, Jamie Cullum, Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens
Lyrics by: Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens
c. “I THOUGHT I LOST YOU” — BOLT
Music & Lyrics by: Miley Cyrus, Jeffrey Steele
d. “ONCE IN A LIFETIME” — CADILLAC RECORDS
Music & Lyrics by: Beyoncé Knowles, Amanda Ghost, Scott McFarnon, Ian Dench, James Dring, Jody Street
e. “THE WRESTLER” — THE WRESTLER
Music & Lyrics by: Bruce Springsteen