Just like I did for the Grammys a few weeks ago, I will be live-blogging the Oscars!
Starting at 8 PM EST, I will be covering everything from the winners, the losers, the special secret presenters, the clothes, Hugh Jackman's anticipated MC duties, and everything else in between.
Don't forget to press F5 every few minutes to see what's going on!
7:57 PM - Hugh Jackman just gave Barbara Walters a lap dance. Is this what we should expect at the Oscars?
8:27 PM - About to begin....
8:30 PM - And it begins...(please don't go overtime lol)
8:31 PM - First note of the night: the stage looks spectacular.
8:32 PM - The first non-comic host, Hugh Jackman, doing pretty good
8:33 PM - I cannot believe what the hell I'm watching. (Love Kate Winslet's face).
So much for the recession, huh? Actually looking at the Batbike, I take that back lol
8:35 PM - Jackman/Hathaway duet = the most amazingly random thing I have ever seen on an Oscar broadcast.
8:37 PM - What the hell does people in metallic outfits have to do with The Reader?
Love how much fun Hugh Jackman is having on stage...
8:38 PM - This is the best opening number I have ever seen on an Oscar telecast! Who needs comedians?
8:40 PM - LMAO at Mickey Rourke's filling gleaming in the light
Brangelina joke....meh...
8:41 pm - Oooooo....Steroid joke with Meryl Streep...funny!
Like the previous Oscar winner montage
8:42 PM - And the first surprise guests are... previous winners!
8:43 PM - All of the words are nice, but its a bit long-winded, to be honest (seeing Viola Davis almost cry was nice). Love Whoopi-Sister Act reference!
So...this is a tribute to the new winners....they couldn't cut to a minute?
8:49 pm - And the winner is... Penelope Cruz!?! First upset of the night! Congrats to Penelope (so, two of Tom Cruise's exes have won Oscars after he dumped them, and he hasn't won period. Hmm....)
8:53 pm - OK, this is kinda stupid, although the pairing of Tina Fey and Steve Martin is ace.
8:54 pm - How could they make a Scientology joke, and not have Tom Cruise in the audience???? That's not fair! And the award for Best Original Screenplay goes to ....Milk
8:58 pm - Wonderful speech from Milk's screenwriter, and first Prop 8 mention of the night.
8:59 pm - Steve Martin and Tina Fey are so funny...the award for Best Adapted Screenplay goes to... Slumdog Millionaire!
9:03 pm - Jennifer Aniston and Jack Black....please cut to Brangelina.....and Jack Black made a Pixar joke (sorry Disney, lol)
9:04 pm - WALL-E FINDS AN OSCAR...and the 2008 Yearbook for animated films (recession my butt!)
9:06 pm - That was really cute...and the Oscar goes to Wall-E for Best Animated Feature!
9:08 pm - Brangelina! And they're smiling (even Angelina! No death stares for Aniston tonight, huh?) And the award for Best Short Animated Film goes to....La Maison En Petits Cubes
9:10 pm - Did he just say "Domo Origato, Mr. Roboto"???
9:15 pm - Can we get some more of the song and dance, please?
Sarah Jessica looks amazing, the set behind her...not so much...
And the winner for Best Art Direction goes to...The Curious Case of Benjamin Button! (Why do I feel like The Dark Knight is getting snubbed, save for Heath Ledger?)
And the winner for Best Costume Design goes to...The Duchess!
This is a seriously boring segment...And the award for Best Makeup goes to....The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. No surprise there.
Somewhere, millions of Twilight fans have gone completely apeshit over Robert Pattinson.
The Romance of 2008, featuring too many Twilight and High School Musical references. Way too many! Love Wall-E though!
9:31 pm - I REALLY do not care how the movies are made, Hugh Jackman!
Ben Stiller impersonating Joaquin Phoenix is INSANELY hilarious!! If he raps, I will lose it!
And the award for Best Cinematography goes to...Slumdog Millionaire!
9:40 pm - Am I the only one thinking, "Why is Jessica Biel here? With an ugly dress to boot?"
9:42 pm - Pineapple Express review the best of comedy...considering how stoned they are, I'm surprised they even knew what the Oscars were.
Seriously, what the hell am I watching right now?
Dear God, they want to make an Oscar into a bong? (Michael Phelps, stay away!!)
And the award for Best Short Film goes to...Speilzugland (Toyland)
9:52 pm - According to Hugh Jackman, the true change coming in the world is Mammia Mia! and its gross in the UK...ok....
Song and dance number!!
BEYONCE!!!!! IN RED!!!!
Beyonce and Hugh Jackman doing Sandy and Danny from Grease....this is really fun.
9:55 pm - Jay-Z must be steaming right now!
Are you serious!!!! How the hell do they have High School Musical here?? It's the Oscars!!
So that's why Hugh Jackman brought up Mamma Mia!
That was the most ridiculous thing the Oscars have ever been put together. It was also the most interesting thing of the night. Go figure.
10:01 pm - Time for Best Supporting Actor, which WILL go to Heath Ledger.
And the past winners/presenters are... Christopher Walken, Kevin Kline, Cuba Gooding Jr. Alan Arkin, and Joel Gray.
Again, although nice, the past winner/presenter tributes to the present nominees are kind of unnecessary and frivolous.
Cuba Gooding Jr., the only black presenter up there, talking about RBJ's blackface? Stroke of genius or slightly racist dig? Still funny.
And the winner is... Heath Ledger!!! Going to accept the award his father, his mother, and his sister. Prepare your Kleenex, folks.
Even Brad Pitt's tearing up. So is Angelina. So is everybody.
Congrats to Heath Ledger...may you continue to rest in peace.
10:11 pm - Doc montage...time for a snack...
Bill Maher presenting Best Documentary Feature...why wasn't Religilous nominated for an Oscar?
The winner is... Man On Wire
Magic tricks on the Oscars? That's new. Balancing an Oscar on your chin? That's newer, and stupid.
And the winner for Best Short Documentary Feature is... Smile Pinki
The best in Action...lots of The Dark Knight clips...is this to make up for the Best Picture snub?
Speaking of snubbed, here is Will Smith!
And Curious Case of Benjamin Button wins Best Visual Effects.
Best Sound Editing goes to...The Dark Knight! (Seriously, how do you vote for these awards???)
Now for Sound Mixing.... (can't they give these awards away during a pre-show or something, a la the Grammys?) which goes to Slumdog Millionaire!
One more award in this painfully moring segment (thank God)...for Film Editing, which goes to...Slumdog Millionaire. Question: since the film received 10 nominations, why the hell are the people all the way in the back?
10:41 pm - The Jean Hersholt Award, presented by Eddie Murphy, given to Jerry Lewis (in case you don't know who he is, he is the host of theose Labor Day telethons). Another random cut to Sophia Loren (in case you don't know who she is, she's an Italian actress).
10:45 pm - His looks and speaks well for someone who's 82 years old!
10:50 pm - Time for the Oscar music, without Hugh Jackman unfortunately. I didn't know that even the Orchestra director is a nominee!
The Slumdog score is spectacular, love the Western/Eastern fusion.
10:53 pm - Alicia Keys and Zac Efron. You decide who shouldn't be there. (Hint: Alicia looks stunning).
And Best Original Score goes to Slumdog!
And Best Original Song nominees (which is oddly sparse this year) perform. Two from Slumdog and one from Wall-E
I'm loving the first Slumdog song.
So that's why John Legend was there, he's singing the Wall-E song, I think.
Here's the second Slumdog song. I thought M.I.A. was supposed to be performing. Nice ending with the songs together.
And the winner is... "Jai Ho" from Slumdog!
11:05 pm - Time for Foreign Language Film, which goes to Departures from Japan. Congrats, but it would be nice if he would stop shouting.
11:10 pm - Queen Latifah presents the Memoriam, while singing "I'll Be Seeing You" beautifully.
10:18 pm - YAY, no Academy President speech!
Reese makes a funny, lol. Her dress doesn't. It's kind of randim-looking. Anyway, she's presenting Best Director, and it goes to... Danny Boyle for Slumdog Millionaire! He channels Tigger upon winning, for his kids. Awww. Gotta love truly excited winners.
11:24 pm - Time for Best Actress! And the past winner/presenters are...Sophia Loren (so that's why she's there), Shirley Macclaine, Halle Berry, Nicole Kidman, and Marion Cotilliard.
Please Academy, give Kate Winslet the freakin' Oscar this time!
Honestly, I feel like the added this segment just to make the nominees cry (see Viola, Ann, and Kate).
Sophia, Sophia, Sophia, Sophia, there's too much to say, so I won't say anything.
And the winner is... KATE WINSLET!!!!
Time for the best speech of the night....
Seriously, who the hell doesn't love Kate Winslet at this point?
I love it when she mentions other actresses (smartly, she doesn't try and list their names)
11:36 pm - Now for Best Actor...
And the past winner/presenters are... Robert DeNiro, Ben Kingsley, Anthony Hopkins, Adrien Brody, Michael Douglas!
Robert DeNiro: "How did Sean Penn get all of those roles as straight men?" Line of the night. That plus his "gently reasons with the paparazzi" quip equals brilliance.
Mickey Rourke and Robert Pattinson in the same shot? Foreshadowing, maybe?
And the winner is... Sean Penn! (does anyone think that Mickey was robbed?)
"You Commie homo-loving sons of guns" - Senn Penn. Second best line of the night.
Penn bashes Prop 8 supporters and honors Mickey Rourke. Second best speech of the night. Love ya Kate.
11:47 pm - Best Picture time! Actually, time for a montage.
Loving the mixing of past and present, and the past is relevant to the current films.
And the winner is...Slumdog Millionaire! (I knew that Benjamin Button's 13 nods were crap, no offense Brad Pitt)
Raise your hand if you're going to see Slumdog at some point in the coming week.
Well, its over/ There were some shocks, some guarantees, and lots of love for Slumdog.
Good night, everybody!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
The Reason Why Chris Brown Is Banned From This Blog Until Further Notice
TMZ.com has released a picture of Rihanna's extremely visible injuries sustained by Chris Brown's attack.
When I first saw them, I couldn't speak.
It's unfathomable that someone who has portrayed himself as an upstanding human being could be responsible for this:
When I first saw them, I couldn't speak.
It's unfathomable that someone who has portrayed himself as an upstanding human being could be responsible for this:
As of right now, Chris Brown is done in my book. Neither him nor his music will be featured on this blog unless it pertains to the domestic violence case, effective immediately.
Fans of Chris Brown, if you defend this, after seeing this pictures, I suggest you follow Brown's statement and get some therapy, because clearly you don't understand the seriousness of violence of this scale, and that is inexcusable, almost as much as Brown's actions.
My thoughts are with Rihanna as she recovers from this tragic ordeal.
Fans of Chris Brown, if you defend this, after seeing this pictures, I suggest you follow Brown's statement and get some therapy, because clearly you don't understand the seriousness of violence of this scale, and that is inexcusable, almost as much as Brown's actions.
My thoughts are with Rihanna as she recovers from this tragic ordeal.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
BRIT Awards 2009 MegaPost: Girls Aloud, Duffy Reign; Pet Shop Boys Honored
It's about damn time!
Not my words, but the words of Sarah Harding.
UK national treasures/girl group Girls Aloud have won their first ever BRIT Award. The five-piece took home Best British Single, for their #1 smash "The Promise". The girls were also nominated for Best Group. They beat out other contenders Duffy, Coldplay, and Leona Lewis to take home the award voted for by the public.
The girls performed their BRIT-winning hit "The Promise" live at the ceremony, which was hosted by Kylie Minogue.
The big winner of the night was Duffy, who took home British Album, Breakthrough Act and Solo Female, beating Adele in the latter categories.
The Pet Shop Boys were given the Outstanding Contribution to Music award, and they performed a greatest hits medley with special guests Lady GaGa and Brandon Flowers.
Other performers included Take That, Coldplay, and a collaboration between The Ting Tings and Estelle:
Below is a full list of winners:
British Male Solo Artist
Paul Weller - WINNER!
British Female Solo Artist
Duffy - WINNER!
British Group
Elbow - WINNER!
British Single
Girls Aloud - 'The Promise' - WINNER!
British Album
Duffy - Rockferry - WINNER!
British Breakthrough Act
Duffy - WINNER!
British Live Act
Iron Maiden - WINNER!
International Male Solo Artist
Kanye West - WINNER!
International Female Solo Artist
Katy Perry - WINNER!
International Group
Kings of Leon - WINNER!
International Album
Kings of Leon - Only By The Night - WINNER!
Critics' Choice Award
Florence and the Machine
Outstanding Contribution to Music
Pet Shop Boys
Photo from girlsaloudmedia.com
Flo Rida SMASHES Digital Sales Record With New Single
Flo Rida will be sitting pretty atop the Billboard Hot 100 this week, thanks to the unprecedented sales of his new single "Right Round".
The new single, which samples the 80's classic "You Spin Me Round", sold an astonishing 636,606 copies in the last seven days. It shatters the last record-holder, Eminem's "Crack a Bottle", by a stagger 200,000 copies.
Flo Rida still holds the record for the highest one-week digital sales with a #1 hit "Low". "Right Round" will be his second #1 single.
The new single, which samples the 80's classic "You Spin Me Round", sold an astonishing 636,606 copies in the last seven days. It shatters the last record-holder, Eminem's "Crack a Bottle", by a stagger 200,000 copies.
Flo Rida still holds the record for the highest one-week digital sales with a #1 hit "Low". "Right Round" will be his second #1 single.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
MORE UNBELIEVABLE!!! Britain's Alfie Patten To Get Paternity Test Admist Claims Chantelle Slept With Two Other Underage Boys!
The front page that sent shockwaves through Britain
The 13-year old father story is getting more and more ridiculous.
UK tween Alfie Patten is now getting a paternity test to prove that he is the father of days-old Maisie after two other teens proclaimed they could be the father.
While Chantelle, the mother of the child, claims she's only slept with Alfie, two other boys, aged 14 and 16, say she slept with them, and they possibly fathered the baby.
To quell the rumors, Alfie and social workers have agreed to a paternity test to determine who is the underage father.
The baby-faced tween, who proclaimed to the world his intention to raise his child, proved his lack of maturity when asked questions by reporters outside of his home. For example, when he was asked if he loved Chantelle, he said "Dunno". He was also asked if he gave Chantelle anything for Valentines Day; he replied "no". When asked whether he wants to go back to school, he answered, "No, school's dead boring."
The case of Alfie has caught the attention of Parliament. Former leader of the Tory party Duncan Smith remarked about the situation: "It exemplifies the point we have been making about broken Britain."
Sunday, February 15, 2009
BREAKING NEWS: Chris Brown Releases Statement
That didn't take long.
A few hours after I made my post about what Chris Brown must do/say, he released a statement through his publicist Michael Sitrick, his first since last Sunday:
"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired. I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person. Much of what has been speculated or reported on blogs and/or reported in the media is wrong. While I would like to be able to talk about this more, until the legal issues are resolved, this is all I can say except that I have not written any messages or made any posts to Facebook, on blogs or any place else. Those posts or writings under my name are frauds."Thank you setting the record straight, Chris....NOT!
As for following my advice, he basically gets a D-. As I was expecting, the statement was a carefully worded slab of public relations crap. Everything he said was expected an really unoriginal, even when it came to the mention of his family (and pastor). Also, debunking the media reports should not have been a priority (although he gets points for debunking the "previous statements" he made).
Basically, the statement was bogus. Better luck next time, Breezy.
Rihanna has yet to speak about the incident.
Sunday Feature: The Chris Brown/Rihanna Aftermath: What He MUST Do
Hello readers!
After a 10-month hiatus, in honor of my blog-aversary, I have decided to revive my Sunday Feature post. If you aren't aware of what that is, it is the post where I deliver my full opinion on any major event or issue that occurred over the past week. It's my way of saying my peace on the subject and moving on to the next week. To start off, I decided to cover the Chris Brown/Rihanna scandal thios week. Don't forget to check back every Sunday for the Sunday Feature.
It has been a full week since the alleged Chris Brown/Rihanna altercation was first reported.
Since then, there have been cover-ups, emerging details every hour, celebrity reactions, and most interesting of all, fan outrage, defense, and denial.
What we have yet to hear is the full story from the two people who truly know: Chris and Rihanna themselves.
We do know that something serious did happen; there is too much evidence to ignore it. He surrendered to the LAPD, he was charged with a felony, Rihanna was in the hospital, and apparently both have left LA to be with their loved ones. What is up to interpretation is how serious the injuries were and what caused the altercation in the first place.
Still, with all of the confusing, conflicting details, the impact this story can and should have is undeniable.
Chris and Rihanna are two of the biggest pop stars in the world. They have millions of fans in many countries. Their profile is as high as a celebrity in this day and age can get. And they are embroiled in an serious domestic violence situation that could possibly wreck one's career. As tragic as the situation is, it brings to light the relevance that domestic abuse has to young people. As the couple proved, you do not have to be old or married to be in an emotionally or physically abusive relationship.
The implications of this situation makes what both say all the more important, particular Chris. As Carrie Underwood told US Weekly about the numerous rumors, "you hear a new one every five minutes, and some of them are getting kind of ridiculous". This situation needs clarity, and since Chris is the alleged perpetrator and least emotional of the two, I think it would be appropriate to have him speak on the situation.
In speaking, he needs to make sure these three elements exist: realism, humility, and genuine regret over his alleged actions.
In terms of realism, Chris's statement has to be his. It cannot be some carefully worded, vague, and empty statement from his publicist. That would work in situations like drug use, where he could say he participated in "behavior that was inappropriate". This is a case of violence against women, and considering his large fanbase is mostly made up of young women, he particularly has to speak to them, from the heart. It is possible that these young girls have experienced abuse in their lives and look to Chris Brown for hope. How would it look to have him deliver some trite statement to those impressionable young girls? It is bad enough that their hero abused anyone, but then he's not man enough to make his own statement?
Humility is an absolute must, and any kind of cockiness will not only render the statement useless, it will further tarnish his image. He must show that he isn't a complete ass and that he really is the sweet, nice kid that people still have a hard time believing would do this. There cannot be any posturing or attempts to gain street cred from this. In his statement, he needs to appear sorry for his actions and grateful for the blind support he still receives from some of his fans. If he even thinks about pulling some "I'm a G, I know how to keep a woman in line" misogynistic crap, he is done.
Then, there is genuine regret. What he did was WRONG, and if he does not understand that, then maybe a stint in jail will straighten him out. In his statement, he needs to acknowledge that what he did was unequivocally unacceptable, regardless of what his die-hard fans try to say. There is no whitewashing this incident, sweeping it under a rug and hoping it goes away. Look what happened to his idol Michael Jackson, and there was no finite evidence of any wrongdoing in that case. Despite his alleged attack on Rihanna, he needs to be a man and face this problem head on. He cannot flee from this like he did that night, unless he wants to lose everything and become a pariah.
Finally, the most important part of this statement. He needs to tell the TRUTH. While employing all of these elements, he must essentially tell us what the hell happened between the two of them. What caused the altercation? Why did he feel the need to abuse Rihanna? Why did he leave her there instead of calling the police or 911? Is this the first time the abuse has taken place? He really needs to answer these questions and clear the air, not just for his sake, but for the sake of his adoring fans.
What continues from there can only be determined by what he says and the public's reaction to it. If he follows the aforementioned advice, Chris's career can be recovered to a level lower, but acceptable, than he was before. If he lacks one or more of the elements above, more than likely than fans will turn on him. If he says nothing at all, then the situation is completely out of hands as TMZ continues to report on "horrific" details of that night.
At the end of the day, only he and Rihanna know what happens, so, despite his reportedly heinous actions, he should be at least granted the right to explain himself. How he does will determine the rest of both of their careers.
After a 10-month hiatus, in honor of my blog-aversary, I have decided to revive my Sunday Feature post. If you aren't aware of what that is, it is the post where I deliver my full opinion on any major event or issue that occurred over the past week. It's my way of saying my peace on the subject and moving on to the next week. To start off, I decided to cover the Chris Brown/Rihanna scandal thios week. Don't forget to check back every Sunday for the Sunday Feature.
It has been a full week since the alleged Chris Brown/Rihanna altercation was first reported.
Since then, there have been cover-ups, emerging details every hour, celebrity reactions, and most interesting of all, fan outrage, defense, and denial.What we have yet to hear is the full story from the two people who truly know: Chris and Rihanna themselves.
We do know that something serious did happen; there is too much evidence to ignore it. He surrendered to the LAPD, he was charged with a felony, Rihanna was in the hospital, and apparently both have left LA to be with their loved ones. What is up to interpretation is how serious the injuries were and what caused the altercation in the first place.
Still, with all of the confusing, conflicting details, the impact this story can and should have is undeniable.
Chris and Rihanna are two of the biggest pop stars in the world. They have millions of fans in many countries. Their profile is as high as a celebrity in this day and age can get. And they are embroiled in an serious domestic violence situation that could possibly wreck one's career. As tragic as the situation is, it brings to light the relevance that domestic abuse has to young people. As the couple proved, you do not have to be old or married to be in an emotionally or physically abusive relationship.
The implications of this situation makes what both say all the more important, particular Chris. As Carrie Underwood told US Weekly about the numerous rumors, "you hear a new one every five minutes, and some of them are getting kind of ridiculous". This situation needs clarity, and since Chris is the alleged perpetrator and least emotional of the two, I think it would be appropriate to have him speak on the situation.
In speaking, he needs to make sure these three elements exist: realism, humility, and genuine regret over his alleged actions.
In terms of realism, Chris's statement has to be his. It cannot be some carefully worded, vague, and empty statement from his publicist. That would work in situations like drug use, where he could say he participated in "behavior that was inappropriate". This is a case of violence against women, and considering his large fanbase is mostly made up of young women, he particularly has to speak to them, from the heart. It is possible that these young girls have experienced abuse in their lives and look to Chris Brown for hope. How would it look to have him deliver some trite statement to those impressionable young girls? It is bad enough that their hero abused anyone, but then he's not man enough to make his own statement?
Humility is an absolute must, and any kind of cockiness will not only render the statement useless, it will further tarnish his image. He must show that he isn't a complete ass and that he really is the sweet, nice kid that people still have a hard time believing would do this. There cannot be any posturing or attempts to gain street cred from this. In his statement, he needs to appear sorry for his actions and grateful for the blind support he still receives from some of his fans. If he even thinks about pulling some "I'm a G, I know how to keep a woman in line" misogynistic crap, he is done.
Then, there is genuine regret. What he did was WRONG, and if he does not understand that, then maybe a stint in jail will straighten him out. In his statement, he needs to acknowledge that what he did was unequivocally unacceptable, regardless of what his die-hard fans try to say. There is no whitewashing this incident, sweeping it under a rug and hoping it goes away. Look what happened to his idol Michael Jackson, and there was no finite evidence of any wrongdoing in that case. Despite his alleged attack on Rihanna, he needs to be a man and face this problem head on. He cannot flee from this like he did that night, unless he wants to lose everything and become a pariah.
Finally, the most important part of this statement. He needs to tell the TRUTH. While employing all of these elements, he must essentially tell us what the hell happened between the two of them. What caused the altercation? Why did he feel the need to abuse Rihanna? Why did he leave her there instead of calling the police or 911? Is this the first time the abuse has taken place? He really needs to answer these questions and clear the air, not just for his sake, but for the sake of his adoring fans.
What continues from there can only be determined by what he says and the public's reaction to it. If he follows the aforementioned advice, Chris's career can be recovered to a level lower, but acceptable, than he was before. If he lacks one or more of the elements above, more than likely than fans will turn on him. If he says nothing at all, then the situation is completely out of hands as TMZ continues to report on "horrific" details of that night.
At the end of the day, only he and Rihanna know what happens, so, despite his reportedly heinous actions, he should be at least granted the right to explain himself. How he does will determine the rest of both of their careers.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Video Premiere: "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus (Plus, Her Live Performance Screwup!)
So, on Thursday, Miley Cyrus premiered the video for her new single "The Climb", and I gotta tell you, I had the same reaction that I had to Westlife's "Something Right" video: "wow, this is a really cheap looking video!".
Seriously, everything about it is CGI-ed to hell. That being said, Miley looks very good when she has her hair up. She should remember that look.
Speaking of remembering things, Miley seemed to suffer lyrical amnesia on UK variety show Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, where she performed "Fly On The Wall". A minute in, she forgot the lyrics and actually stood there for seconds until she could remember.
At least she didn't do a hoedown dance.
New Music Spotlight: "Fight For Love" by Elliott Yamin
A little over a year ago, second runner-up of American Idol's fifth season Elliott Yamin, smashed expectations with his indie debut album. There wasn't a pop radio station in the country in 2007 that didn't play Top 20 smash "Wait For You". The song's success propelled Yamin's album to sales that independent labels dream of, and gained far more popularity than winner Taylor Hicks.Now, the curly-haired crooner is releasing his sophomore album, titled Fight For Love. He dropped the lead single, also titled "Fight For Love" this week, with an official release coming inearly March.
Refreshingly, Elliott decides to switch things up this time around. While he started his last album era with a beautiful pop ballad, he's pushing forward with an uptempo R&B/pop sound. "Fight For Love" is a love anthem, with silky smooth verses and a bouncing chrous that'll make you want to wave a hand in the air when you hear it in concert. The increase in tempo doesn't take away from Elliott's voice. His voice smoothly carries the verses before bursting into powerful declarations in the chorus. Essentially, its ready for pop radio.
Elliott is still technically an indie artist swimming in a market filled with big label heavy-hitters, but this new song proves that he doesn't need power suit-wearing execs to make a great song. Expect to hear this song blowing up radio stations across the country, as he continues his "fight" to be heard.
Rating: 7.5/10
Classic Performances: Whitney Houston Performs Medley at 1994 American Music Awards
Back in 1994, Whitney Houston could do wrong. That's because she graduated from pop princess to global icon thanks to the massive success of "I Will Always Love You" and The Boydguard. The critical darling was adored so much that the American Music Awards, produced by TV legend Dick Clark, gave her a 10 minute performance slot.
Whitney sang three songs at the ceremony; "I Love You Porgy" from Porgy & Bess, future Jennifer Hudson staple "And I Am Telling You", and her Top 5 Bodyguard smash "I Have Nothing". As the diva entered the final stretch of the last song, it was clear this was more than a performance. This was a showcase, no, a masterclass in the art of performance. There are very few people on this Earth who are able to sing with so much power, grace, elegance, and energy that left an audience in complete awe.
Before the crack drama, the domestic abuse, and the poor album sales, Whitney was in a class all by herself. Here's to hoping that she can reach that class again with her much-anticipated album this year.
Soap Scene of the Week: Kendall Hart's Toast At Bianca and Reese's Wedding on All My Children
The bitch is back!
All My Children's Kendall Hart has been sleeping in a coma for a very long time, and it appears her awakening also brought her long-dormant mean side to the surface. Granted, she has alot to be mad about; her husband Zach allowed her sister Bianca to use his sperm to conceive a child with confused fiancee Reese.
In typical Kendall fashion, she took out her anger on the happy couple in her impromptu toast, the night before their wedding. Seemingly innocent at first, Kendall's claws quickly came out, delivering a deliciously cool verbal slap to her future sister-in-law. Without breaking a sweat, a fingernail, or her glass, Kendall essentially called Reese a manipulative witch and Bianca a unrecognizable traitor. The killer line? "Weddings are so supposed to be about beginnings...however, for the rest of us, its about endings, mainly that we won't be seeing you around any longer. So, here's to a safe and swift journey home". The treacherous toast had Reese running, alcohol in hand, into the arms and lips of Zach.
So, yes, Kendall's toast may have been a tad rude, inappropriate, mean-spirited, bitchy, and self-destructive. Then again, isn't that what we love about Kendall?
Again, she's back!
WORST Songs: "I Love College" by Asher Roth
If you were expecting a song about the joys of studying, or graduating, then think again.
Asher Roth's debut single "I Love College" revels in the joys of getting completely smashed at a party, prompting his desire to stay in university forever.
Of the two alcohol-related songs out there, this one is really gross, downgrading a perfectly good Weezer sample into a filthy backing track to some of the most immature and quite frankly asinine lyrics ever (Soulja Boy can relax now).
Clearly this guy is an Eminem wannabe. The only problem is, Eminem's artistic prowess extends far beyond a need to get drunk. This guy is a joke; a really bad one, and his song is as enjoyable as a hangover.
Rating: 2/10
UNBELIEVABLE! More Sensational Pictures of Tween Father Alfie Patten
The Sun published more pictures of 13-year old Alfie Patten in today's edition, and here they are!
The best of them all....the underage family playing Playstation!
The best of them all....the underage family playing Playstation!
15-year old mother Chantelle with her own mother
NOTE: Photo credit goes to The Sun newspaper and News Group Newspaper Limited. Visit the website at thesun.co.uk.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Download of the Day UK 2-13 : "Chasing Lights" by The Saturdays
The Saturdays entered a market filled with some serious heavy-hitters last year; girl group pop.The five piece, consisting of Vanessa, Rochelle, Mollie, Frankie, and Uda, seemed like a terribly futile attempt to replace either the Sugababes or Girls Aloud. Somehow, the group carved out their own little place, proving to be viable with hit smashes like "Up" and "Issues". Now, the girls are on track to score their first-ever UK number one with their cheeky reboot of the Depeche Mode classic "Just Can't Get Enough".
All of this success prompted me to find their commercially lackluster debut Chasing Lights. Coincidentally, the first song I listened to was the title track. It's the closest the group comes to a "Call The Shots", and its much more interesting than their current single "Issues". It's lush with guitar fuzzed with warm synth. The vocals are surprisingly strong, although a bit nondescript (the only one I can recognize is Vanessa). While songs about giving up on broken relationships are not new, "Chasing Lights" has a catchy chorus and lovable hook that brings something new to the concept.
"Chasing Lights" should be a single, and if it doesn't, hopefully people buy the album and hear this spectacular ode to moving on. If "Up" didn't convince pop skeptics that the girld are staying around, then pop in their CD and soon, they'll be "chasing" them around for a new LP.
Rating: 8/10
UNBELIEVABLE!!!! 13 Year Old Boy Is a Baby Daddy....Literally!
This has to be one of the craziest things I have ever heard!
British newspaper The Sun reported today that 13-year old Alfie Patten, who looks at least 5 years younger than he is, has recently become a FATHER!
Yes, it's true.
The baby-faced tween is the father of Maisie Roxanne, who was born two weeks ago. The mother is 15-year old Chantelle. The twosome reportedly had sex once when Alfie was twelve, and a few weeks later, found she was pregnant. She decided against an abortion and had the child, with Alfie promising to support her.
“I didn’t know what it would be like to be a dad. I will be good, though, and care for it," Alfie told The Sun.
Like a child would, he has afraid of the reactions of those around him, especially his mum. “When my mum found out, I thought I was going to get in trouble. We wanted to have the baby but were worried how people would react."
Considering that a) he had sex at freakin' TWELVE and b) he got a girl pregnant at TWELVE,those fears aren't completely far off.
Here is a picture of the happy "family":
So, what do the parent's think of their child giving them grandchildren before he finishes puberty?
Father of Alfie, 45 year old Dennis, has called Alfie a “a typical 13-year-old boy”. He said: “He loves computer games, boxing and Manchester United [a England football team].”
Dennis talked to the paper about how his son took the new: “When I spoke to him he started crying. He said it was the first time he’d had sex, that he didn’t know what he was doing and of the complications that could come".
Despite his son's early fatherhood, Dennis has promised to set the boy right: “I will talk to him again and it will be the birds and the bees talk. Some may say it’s too late but he needs to understand so there is not another baby.”
Still, he praised his child's maturity: “He could have shrugged his shoulders and sat at home on his Playstation. But he has been at the hospital every day.”
So, when Alfie prepares to graduate, his daughter will be in second grade. Imagine the prom situation (where many teen parents are born); "I can't go with you because I have to help my daughter with her homework".
It's sweet that Alfie wants to support the child, especially considering the high number of paternal abandonments, but this whole situation is just insane. Why was he having sex at all? He's a baby, for heaven's sake! If he had to, why did they use protection? And finally, why are they keeping the child, knowing neither can truly afford to give it a real home?!?!
Add this story to the baby bizarro files, right alongside the Octo-mom...
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Online Chat With "Guiding Light" Star Grant Aleksander FRIDAY!
Fans of CBS soap Guiding Light are in for a real treat!
I was informed by the wonderful people at Fancast.com that actor Grant Aleksander, who plays the recently returned Phillip Spaulding, will be participating in a live online chat tomorrow!
Fans of the show will get the opportunity to ask Aleksander questions about his much-hyped return to Springfield. I would particularly ask him what finally made him come back after four years.
The live chat will take place on Friday (February 13th) at 3pm EST/12pm PST at the following link:
http://www.fancast.com/blogs/live-chat/live-chat-guiding-light-star-grant-aleksander/
Don't forget to check it out, and thanks again to Fancast.com for the tip.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Katherine Heigl and T.R. Knight to Leave Grey's Anatomy?
The rumors have been swirling for months, but apparently, there is actual truth to them.
James Pickens Jr, who plays chief of staff Dr. Richard Webber on the ABC drama, confirmed to magazine US Weekly that the duo are quitting Seattle Grace, saying ""Yes, she is. Wherever Katherine goes, I wish her nothing but the best." As for Knight, "he's going too. He just wanted to pursue other career paths."
It is unknown when or how Heigl and Knight will leave the show.
James Pickens Jr, who plays chief of staff Dr. Richard Webber on the ABC drama, confirmed to magazine US Weekly that the duo are quitting Seattle Grace, saying ""Yes, she is. Wherever Katherine goes, I wish her nothing but the best." As for Knight, "he's going too. He just wanted to pursue other career paths."
It is unknown when or how Heigl and Knight will leave the show.
Monday, February 9, 2009
The UNBELIEVABLE of the 2009 Grammys
UNBELIEVABLE
I have to give M.I.A props for getting up there and performing, but for God's sake, she looked like she was going to pop right there on the stage. Plus, I can't count how many times people have referred to her as Yoshi from the Mario games.
I'm sorry to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss fans, and I do respect them as veteran artists, but I cannot be the only one who thought their multiple Grammy wins were a bit out of left field, epecially for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. As for Record of the Year, either Leona, Coldplay, or M.I.A was robbed (depending on your preference).
This may be blasphemous speak for some, but U2's performance of their new single "Get On Your Boots" wasn't as epic as expected.
Speaking of epic performances, save for M.I.A., I thought the much-touted "Swagga Like Us" hip-hop summit was terribly underwhelming.
It's funny how people see television differently; some (like me) saw Whitney Houston make a fantastic entrance, others saw her cracked out.
I know its old news now, but the Chris Brown/Rihanna debacle just seems so UNBELIEVABLE!
I have to give M.I.A props for getting up there and performing, but for God's sake, she looked like she was going to pop right there on the stage. Plus, I can't count how many times people have referred to her as Yoshi from the Mario games.
I'm sorry to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss fans, and I do respect them as veteran artists, but I cannot be the only one who thought their multiple Grammy wins were a bit out of left field, epecially for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. As for Record of the Year, either Leona, Coldplay, or M.I.A was robbed (depending on your preference).
This may be blasphemous speak for some, but U2's performance of their new single "Get On Your Boots" wasn't as epic as expected.
Speaking of epic performances, save for M.I.A., I thought the much-touted "Swagga Like Us" hip-hop summit was terribly underwhelming.
It's funny how people see television differently; some (like me) saw Whitney Houston make a fantastic entrance, others saw her cracked out.
I know its old news now, but the Chris Brown/Rihanna debacle just seems so UNBELIEVABLE!
WORST of the Grammys 2009
WORST (there are quite a few...)
The Rock's whole appearance on the show made no sense. He has NOTHING to do with music, PERIOD. Then there were his lame-ass jokes that made the comical Katy Perry cringe. He made Ryan Seacrest look brilliant.
Note to Chris Martin: you are very rich. You sell millions of albums. You win Grammys like nothing. Can you please dress like you are famous, and not like you just came from a long, dark night underneath an underpass (although I appreciate your bandmate apologize to McCartney for jacking the Sgt. Peppers motif).
Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift perform "Fifteen". I thought the Academy learned their lesson after the Grammy Nominations Concert; Taylor doesn't sing well live. Instead of heeding that warning, they took it a step further and had Miley sing with her, who is worse. Two sub-standard live singers does not a Grammy performance make.
Speaking of Miley and Taylor, shame on the cameramen for not showing their exes', Nick and Joe Jonas, faces while they performed. Hell, MTV showed Justin's reaction when Britney and Madonna made out. The duet was as close to that moment as the Disney queens were going to get.
Speaking of the Jonases, who's great idea was to pair them with Grammy darling Stevie Wonder? There was too much failure about it to truly list, but there's one thing that is truly sad; Nick stumbling over a simple lyric: "thirteen month-old babies". Ironic, huh?
Kanye West must have multiple personality disorder. First he's God, then he's Elvis, now he's 80s Lionel Richie? Make up your mind, and while you're doing that, get a haircut!
The official Grammy snub list: Leona Lewis, Katy Perry, Jazmine Sullivan, everyone who lost to Daft Punk, and Jason Mraz (I threw that in for those who actually love "I'm Yours", I didn't)
Speaking of Leona, there were no true diva performances. Save for Jennifer and arguably Adele, this year's ceremony was almost woman-free (Miley and Taylor don't count). Where was (not exclusive to) Mariah, Beyonce, Mary J., Janet, Madonna, Alicia, and the other Grammy women who usually kill it?
T-Pain won a Grammy. Enough said.
The entire Grammy voting process fails, but that's for another longerrant post.
The Rock's whole appearance on the show made no sense. He has NOTHING to do with music, PERIOD. Then there were his lame-ass jokes that made the comical Katy Perry cringe. He made Ryan Seacrest look brilliant.
Note to Chris Martin: you are very rich. You sell millions of albums. You win Grammys like nothing. Can you please dress like you are famous, and not like you just came from a long, dark night underneath an underpass (although I appreciate your bandmate apologize to McCartney for jacking the Sgt. Peppers motif).
Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift perform "Fifteen". I thought the Academy learned their lesson after the Grammy Nominations Concert; Taylor doesn't sing well live. Instead of heeding that warning, they took it a step further and had Miley sing with her, who is worse. Two sub-standard live singers does not a Grammy performance make.
Speaking of Miley and Taylor, shame on the cameramen for not showing their exes', Nick and Joe Jonas, faces while they performed. Hell, MTV showed Justin's reaction when Britney and Madonna made out. The duet was as close to that moment as the Disney queens were going to get.
Speaking of the Jonases, who's great idea was to pair them with Grammy darling Stevie Wonder? There was too much failure about it to truly list, but there's one thing that is truly sad; Nick stumbling over a simple lyric: "thirteen month-old babies". Ironic, huh?
Kanye West must have multiple personality disorder. First he's God, then he's Elvis, now he's 80s Lionel Richie? Make up your mind, and while you're doing that, get a haircut!
The official Grammy snub list: Leona Lewis, Katy Perry, Jazmine Sullivan, everyone who lost to Daft Punk, and Jason Mraz (I threw that in for those who actually love "I'm Yours", I didn't)
Speaking of Leona, there were no true diva performances. Save for Jennifer and arguably Adele, this year's ceremony was almost woman-free (Miley and Taylor don't count). Where was (not exclusive to) Mariah, Beyonce, Mary J., Janet, Madonna, Alicia, and the other Grammy women who usually kill it?
T-Pain won a Grammy. Enough said.
The entire Grammy voting process fails, but that's for another longer
The BEST of Grammys 2009
BEST
Jennifer Hudson continues her return to the spotlight by taking home the "Best R&B Album" Grammy and delivering a heart-tugging, emotional performance of her album cut "You Pulled Me Through". I know more than a few people pulled out some Kleenex during that performance.
Alternative band Radiohead delivered a polarizing performance of their song "15 Step" from their Grammy-winning album In Rainbows. I don't even know who they really are, and I kind of feel really stupid for that. That song is definitely on heavy rotation on the iPod.
Grammys avoid complete humiliation by not giving the Jonas Brothers the Best New Artist Grammy, instead, giving to a truly grateful Adele, who considering the nominees, really deserved it.
After events prior to the ceremony pulled Chris Brown and Rihanna from the ceremony, legend Al Green, Justin Timberlake, Keith Urban, and Boyz II Men performed a solid "Let's Stay Together". Also, seeing Justin act like giddy fanboy was very funny.
I may have been the only one, but I was certainly amused by Katy Perry's performance of "I Kissed a Girl". I got the fruit thing, and it was a very good vocal from the Grammy-snubbed pop tart.
Not a big country person, but there were two performances that really caught my ear. Sugarland, specifically Jennifer Nettles, got me wanting to get their Grammy-winning single "Stay". Kenny Chesney, who isn't that interesting, also did a good job.
I love tributes! Lil Wayne's homage to New Orleans, John Mayer and B.B. King's salute to the late Bo Diddley, and the "new" Four Tops were definitely standout performances of the night.
Jennifer Hudson continues her return to the spotlight by taking home the "Best R&B Album" Grammy and delivering a heart-tugging, emotional performance of her album cut "You Pulled Me Through". I know more than a few people pulled out some Kleenex during that performance.
Alternative band Radiohead delivered a polarizing performance of their song "15 Step" from their Grammy-winning album In Rainbows. I don't even know who they really are, and I kind of feel really stupid for that. That song is definitely on heavy rotation on the iPod.
Grammys avoid complete humiliation by not giving the Jonas Brothers the Best New Artist Grammy, instead, giving to a truly grateful Adele, who considering the nominees, really deserved it.
After events prior to the ceremony pulled Chris Brown and Rihanna from the ceremony, legend Al Green, Justin Timberlake, Keith Urban, and Boyz II Men performed a solid "Let's Stay Together". Also, seeing Justin act like giddy fanboy was very funny.
I may have been the only one, but I was certainly amused by Katy Perry's performance of "I Kissed a Girl". I got the fruit thing, and it was a very good vocal from the Grammy-snubbed pop tart.
Not a big country person, but there were two performances that really caught my ear. Sugarland, specifically Jennifer Nettles, got me wanting to get their Grammy-winning single "Stay". Kenny Chesney, who isn't that interesting, also did a good job.
I love tributes! Lil Wayne's homage to New Orleans, John Mayer and B.B. King's salute to the late Bo Diddley, and the "new" Four Tops were definitely standout performances of the night.
"Just Can't Get Enough" of The Saturdays? Here's Their New Video!
The newest girlband on the block, The Saturdays, have truly passed expectations. Their first single, "If This Is Love", peaked at an unimpressive #8. Their next single, the brilliant "Up", peaked at #5. Their third single "Issues" did even better, peaking at #4 and helping the album reach the Top 10.
After three close calls, the girls are now seriously aiming for that coveted #1 spot, and what better way to do it than to record a cover for Comic Relief, the UK's most fun-filled charity. The fivesome were chosen to record the single for Red Nose Day, and they decided to cover Depeche Mode's "Just Can't Get Enough".
The video has been released a month ahead of the song's release, and you can check it out here:
Just like you would expect, it's colorful and it's cute. The girls decided to sex it up a bit for this one, but they don't tread into Pussycat Doll territory. It's a very fun video, and the song isn't that bad either.
The Official Comic Relief Single will be released on March 9th.
After three close calls, the girls are now seriously aiming for that coveted #1 spot, and what better way to do it than to record a cover for Comic Relief, the UK's most fun-filled charity. The fivesome were chosen to record the single for Red Nose Day, and they decided to cover Depeche Mode's "Just Can't Get Enough".
The video has been released a month ahead of the song's release, and you can check it out here:
Just like you would expect, it's colorful and it's cute. The girls decided to sex it up a bit for this one, but they don't tread into Pussycat Doll territory. It's a very fun video, and the song isn't that bad either.
The Official Comic Relief Single will be released on March 9th.
Download of the Day 2-09: "Day 'N' Nite (Crookers Remix)" by Kid Cudi
Techno and rap haven't always seen eye to eye.Maybe Kid Cudi could barter some kind of peace.
The Kanye protege released a remix of his debut single "Day 'N' Nite", done by house production duo The Crookers. While the original was a cool, chill record that borderlined on mundane, the remixed track is a completely energized, club thrasher. The chorus is a schizophrenic mix of buzzing beats, synths, and blaring horns, accompanied by a hook that's all of the sudden more infectious than it was in the original.
Not to give all the credit to the Crookers, Kid Cudi has a very good flow, similar to Lupe Fiasco, and the lyrics are refreshingly not misogynistic, violent, arrogant, or obnoxious. He's simply an MC with skills.
Talented rapping + coolest remixers = ?
One of the best tracks of the year so far.
Rating: 8.5/10
Leona Goes Empty-Handed, But Looks AMAZING!
So the Grammys further proved their irrelevancy by snubbing the biggest selling new artist in the world, Leona Lewis, but when you look THIS FREAKIN' GOOD, does it really matter?
DIVA OF THE NIGHT!
Chris Brown Assaults Rihanna, Kills Career
Rihanna and Chris Brown at Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy Gala
Yesterday's Grammy ceremony was overshadowed with a brewing scandal involving two of its biggest stars.
R&B star Chris Brown, who Billboard Magazine named the Top Artist of 2008, allegedly assualted Rihanna after Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy gala around 12:30 AM PST. According to police reports, the victim, who is believed to be the pop princess, had visible bruises and named Brown as her attacker. Rihanna was reportedly at Cedars-Senai Medical Center during the ceremony, where she and her former beau were supposed to perform their chart-topping hits. According to different reports, Rihanna had a black eye.
Chris Brown turned himself into the police during the ceremony, at 6:30 pm PST, and he was officially charged for committing a felony and his bail was set at $50,000, which he paid.
Frankly, I don't care what the situation was between the two of them. I was raised not to lay a hand on a woman. What Chris Brown did was inexcusable, and its made even worse that the victim is one of the world's biggest pop stars. It is guaranteed that the media will MASSACRE Brown, which he deserves plus more, and I wouldn't be surprised, in fact I would be offended, if Chris Brown never truly recovers from this incident. Thankfully, Rihanna will.
Dancing with the Stars Season Eight Cast Revealed!
While some were watching last night's stagnant Grammy ceremony, others were tuned into ABC to see who would be lighting up the dancefloor for this season of DWTS. Here is the official list:
Shawn Johnson, Olympic gold medal gymnast
Chuck Wicks, country singer
Gilles Marini, Sex and the City: The Movie actor
Denise Richards, annoying reality TV star, former hot actress
Lawrence Taylor, retired NFL linebacker
Nancy O'Dell, Access Hollywood co-host
Steve-O, star of MTV's Jackass
Steve Wozniak, Apple founder
Lil' Kim, Grammy-winning rapper
Belinda Carlisle, former Go-Go, solo 80's pop star
David Alan Grier, Life With Bonnie actor
Ty Murray, PBR bull rider
Jewel, singer/songwriter
This is DEFINITELY the most eclectic mix I've ever seen. Just a few questionable choices...Lil' Kim? Steve-O? Two of the most naked stars ever? On national television? Trying to perform....with class?
I'll tune it for that!
Shawn Johnson, Olympic gold medal gymnast
Chuck Wicks, country singer
Gilles Marini, Sex and the City: The Movie actor
Denise Richards, annoying reality TV star, former hot actress
Lawrence Taylor, retired NFL linebacker
Nancy O'Dell, Access Hollywood co-host
Steve-O, star of MTV's Jackass
Steve Wozniak, Apple founder
Lil' Kim, Grammy-winning rapper
Belinda Carlisle, former Go-Go, solo 80's pop star
David Alan Grier, Life With Bonnie actor
Ty Murray, PBR bull rider
Jewel, singer/songwriter
This is DEFINITELY the most eclectic mix I've ever seen. Just a few questionable choices...Lil' Kim? Steve-O? Two of the most naked stars ever? On national television? Trying to perform....with class?
I'll tune it for that!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Grammys 2009: The Live-Blog!
I will be doing my first live blog tonight of the 2009 Grammys, so you'll get to see my opinion of the telecast, unfiltered (well, a bit, maybe).
Starting now!
8:03 - U2 is performing new single "Get On Your Boots". I don't get why the song didn't do well. It's good, and another great performance.
8: 04 - WHITNEY, WHITNEY, WHITNEY, WHITNEY!! LOOKING AMAZING! Presenting Best R&B Album
8:07 - And the winner is.. Jennifer Hudson!! First shock of the night!
8:08 - Why is The Rock here? Yea, "I Kissed a Girl" jokes? Um, no.
8:10 - PLEASE STOP JOHNSON!!
8:10 - Justin replacing Chris?
8:12 - First performance of the night: Keith Urban, Boyz II Men, Justin Timberlake, and Al Green performing "Let's Stay Together". Pretty good combo, producers, But why is Justin there? New album soon?
COMMERCIAL NOTES - I loved that they played "You Pulled Me Through" during Jennifer's win. Favorite song on the album. The Rock was pointless. JT should stick to singing. Whitney looked amazing, sounded like she had gravel for breakfast.
8:21 - Coldplay up for performance... performing Lost? (the slow version). What happened to the current single, Lovers in Japan, or even Viva La Vida?
8:23 - Jay-Z with Chris Martin? Another surprise. Then again, he was on the EP.
8:24 - Nvm. Here's "Viva La Vida". BTW, what's with Chris Martin's jackets? Very interesting.
8:27 - Carrie Underwood's up now, playing my favorite role for her: sexpot! Go mini-Shania! "Last Name" should've been a bigger hit!
8: 30 - Totally shallow comment: I liked what she was wearing last year more. She looks better in black lol!
8:32 - BTW, congrats to Gene Autry and Brenda Lee for their Lifetime Acheivement awards
Sheryl Crow and Leann Rimes announce Best Country Group Performance to... Sugarland!
8:41 - Duffy and Al Green? Fantastic pairing...presenting Song of the Year... and dueting on "Bridge Over Troubled Water"? Awesome
8:42 - And the winner is... Coldplay for "Viva La Vida". I was expecting Adele, but congrats to them. Maybe now they'll look like they sold millions of copies.
Awesome moment: Coldplay apologizing to Paul McCartney for jacking their outfits lol
8:44 - Why is Kid Rock performing???
8:45 - He went from a good song to the most annoying record of 2008. Thanks producers.
8:47 - They gave THIS guy a slot, but not Leona? They should just admit they hate the girl.
8:55 - Miley and Taylor? No thanks. Both proved they can't sing live well. BTW, two Jonas exes, on the same stage? I'm betting that Nick and Joe are adjusting their ties right about now.
8:57 - So, they're presenting Best Pop Collaboration... I wonder who wins... Poor Rihanna....not so much for Chris...and the award goes to Alison Krauss and Robert Plant for "Rich Woman". So, no awkwardness for Rihanna and Chris...
9:00 - My girl J-Hud's performing, my favorite song "You Pulled Me Through". Sing it girl! She looks spectacular too! This should've been the second single, in memory of her lost family.
9:02 - SING IT!!! Jennifer breaks down at the end, my heart tugs, and she gets a very deserving standing ovation. Watch her album skyrocket this week.
9:09 - Oh no....the Jonas Brothers...
9:10 - Jonas Brothers and Stevie Wonder, what sacrilege is this?????? At least Stevie sounds good....BUT WHY??????? This is wrong!!!
9:12 - This is a joke, right? Jonas doing "Superstitious"? Kill me now....and they are killing the song...
9:14 - A reunited Blink-182? Very good (and I'm happy for Travis Barker) presenting Best Rock Album...and the winner is... Coldplay...no surprise.
9:22 - Screech sex tape jokes? Awesome
Katy Perry's performing....cool
9:24 - Fruity Katy? Very clever...(if you don't get it...sad for you). Good vocals so far...and I just noticed the banana...
9:27 - Time for Kanye and Estelle now...speaking of Estelle...I didn't know they made silver-sparkly garbage bags! Cool performance, though.
9:29 - I just remembered how much I liked this song. Now, times for Best New Artist...please don't be the Jonas Brothers...and its Adele!!!! Yay!!! She looks so happy....and she's crying...OMG she just made a face when she said she loved the Jonas Brothers!!! She really does win!
COMMERCIAL NOTES: Who does Kanye think he is, Lionel Richie? Get a haircut!
9:36 - Morgan Freeman? Hmm... Kenny Chesney performs now....time for snack break....
9:39 - Not a huge country fan, but Kenny's doing really good.
9:40 - P. Diddy, Herbie Hancock, and Natalie Cole? Presenting Record of the Year...It's gonna be Coldplay...love that Leona's setting next to Keyshia...the winner is Alison Krauss and Robert Plant for "Please Read The Letter"....ok, sure...whatever
You know what, no offense to "Please Read The Letter", but what the hell? Leona, Katy, Jazmine all get snubbed, and they win ROTY? Grammys = EPIC FAIL
COMMERCIAL NOTES - I completely had a deja vu moment...when Herbie Hancock won AOTY....
9:48 - Queen Latifah presents Dean Martin with Lifetime Achievement...and the biggest performance of the night..."no one on the corner has swagga like us". I love that uber-preggers M.IA. is performing. She looks like she's gonna bust, now.
9:50 - Seriously Kanye, haircut, today. "The Rap Pack"? Everybody does look fresh, Lil' Wayne's scarf is weird though...M.I.A going into labor would be the highlight of the night. Unlikely though.
9:55 - Paul McCartney and Dave Grohl....
Ignorant question - Who the hell is Alison Krauss, who I just found out has won 21 Grammys???
9:57 - Spirited, although unnecessary, performance of "I Saw Here Standing There" BTW. Macca still has it.
9:59 - Facebook quote of the day: "M.I.A. looks like Yoshi for Mario". True talk.
10:04 - Jack Black and a guy I've never heard of, presenting Best Male Pop Vocal
And the winner is... John Mayer?!?! WTF!! Complete and utter shock.
10:07 - Jay Mohr and LL Cool J? Weird combo....Sugarland and Adele combo....weirder combo
10:08 - I may need to trek over to iTunes and find Sugarland's "Stay"
10:10 - I just learned Jennifer Nettles was the girl part of Sugarland (she performed at the Obama HBO concert)....Adele's on...love that they jazzed it up a bit.
10:14 - Adele and Sugarland duet on "Chasing Pavements"...nothing special, honestly.
10:19 - Gywneth Paltrow presents Radiohead...wonder how Chris feels about that. Radiohead totally has my interest right now.
10:21 - I'm totally iTunes-ing "15 Steps" tomorrow, this song is so weirdly hot and insanely cool.
10:28 - Samuel L. Jackson, introducing T.I. and J.T. singing my favorite collaboration of the year "Dead and Gone".J.T. doesn't sound too hot.... Ignore that, he got better. Plus, he was forced to perform twice since Rihanna-beater Chris Brown couldn't make it...
10:31 - Just a thought, has there been a year where Justin HASN'T appeared on the Grammys?
10:35 - Time for a Prez of the Academy speech about charity...using Obama-speech...
10:38 - Smokey Robinson presents Four Tops with the Lifetime Achievement award...and they are performing with Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx! Surprise performance! Love spontaneous tributes!
10:41 - Sugar pie, honey bunch....love Motown!
10:47 - Sorry, can't look at Josh Groban without thinking about his Emmy crackheaded-ness. Time for Neil Diamond!
10:51 - Time for the Memoriam. May those who passed rest in peace... (love ya Eartha Kitt and Issac Hayes!)
10:54 - John Mayer, Keith Urban, and B.B. King perform... don't really know why, but it's good...
11:02 - Why is there no CSI: LA? Lil' Wayne and Robin Thicke?? Not very interesting...When he's no screaming, Lil' Wayne actually has a really smooth flow, and Robin Thicke certainly highlights that.
11:07 - Bringing in some New Orleans spirit here...lovin' it.
11:09 - T-Pain won a Grammy....he and Will.i.am present Best Rap Album...which Weezy has on lock....the winner is....Lil' Wayne. No way in HELL he was losing that!
11:18 - Time for the two people kicking the most ass, that many people who tuned in to see the Jonas Brothers have never heard of, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss!!
11:20 - I think I may need to trek to iTunes and check out "Rich Girl" by these two, its a very chill record.
11:23 - Holy crap! Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day went blond...and presenting Album of the Year...and the winner is...Raising Sand by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss....maybe she'll actually talk this time
11:26 - Well, the Grammys are over. I gotta say, this year was quite boring, predictable, and disappointing with how many robberies there were. Check back tomorrow for my full Grammy roundup..
11:27 - Stevie Wonder's closing out...his treat for performing with the freakin' Jonas Brothers. Now its over. Night everybody.
Starting now!
8:03 - U2 is performing new single "Get On Your Boots". I don't get why the song didn't do well. It's good, and another great performance.
8: 04 - WHITNEY, WHITNEY, WHITNEY, WHITNEY!! LOOKING AMAZING! Presenting Best R&B Album
8:07 - And the winner is.. Jennifer Hudson!! First shock of the night!
8:08 - Why is The Rock here? Yea, "I Kissed a Girl" jokes? Um, no.
8:10 - PLEASE STOP JOHNSON!!
8:10 - Justin replacing Chris?
8:12 - First performance of the night: Keith Urban, Boyz II Men, Justin Timberlake, and Al Green performing "Let's Stay Together". Pretty good combo, producers, But why is Justin there? New album soon?
COMMERCIAL NOTES - I loved that they played "You Pulled Me Through" during Jennifer's win. Favorite song on the album. The Rock was pointless. JT should stick to singing. Whitney looked amazing, sounded like she had gravel for breakfast.
8:21 - Coldplay up for performance... performing Lost? (the slow version). What happened to the current single, Lovers in Japan, or even Viva La Vida?
8:23 - Jay-Z with Chris Martin? Another surprise. Then again, he was on the EP.
8:24 - Nvm. Here's "Viva La Vida". BTW, what's with Chris Martin's jackets? Very interesting.
8:27 - Carrie Underwood's up now, playing my favorite role for her: sexpot! Go mini-Shania! "Last Name" should've been a bigger hit!
8: 30 - Totally shallow comment: I liked what she was wearing last year more. She looks better in black lol!
8:32 - BTW, congrats to Gene Autry and Brenda Lee for their Lifetime Acheivement awards
Sheryl Crow and Leann Rimes announce Best Country Group Performance to... Sugarland!
8:41 - Duffy and Al Green? Fantastic pairing...presenting Song of the Year... and dueting on "Bridge Over Troubled Water"? Awesome
8:42 - And the winner is... Coldplay for "Viva La Vida". I was expecting Adele, but congrats to them. Maybe now they'll look like they sold millions of copies.
Awesome moment: Coldplay apologizing to Paul McCartney for jacking their outfits lol
8:44 - Why is Kid Rock performing???
8:45 - He went from a good song to the most annoying record of 2008. Thanks producers.
8:47 - They gave THIS guy a slot, but not Leona? They should just admit they hate the girl.
8:55 - Miley and Taylor? No thanks. Both proved they can't sing live well. BTW, two Jonas exes, on the same stage? I'm betting that Nick and Joe are adjusting their ties right about now.
8:57 - So, they're presenting Best Pop Collaboration... I wonder who wins... Poor Rihanna....not so much for Chris...and the award goes to Alison Krauss and Robert Plant for "Rich Woman". So, no awkwardness for Rihanna and Chris...
9:00 - My girl J-Hud's performing, my favorite song "You Pulled Me Through". Sing it girl! She looks spectacular too! This should've been the second single, in memory of her lost family.
9:02 - SING IT!!! Jennifer breaks down at the end, my heart tugs, and she gets a very deserving standing ovation. Watch her album skyrocket this week.
9:09 - Oh no....the Jonas Brothers...
9:10 - Jonas Brothers and Stevie Wonder, what sacrilege is this?????? At least Stevie sounds good....BUT WHY??????? This is wrong!!!
9:12 - This is a joke, right? Jonas doing "Superstitious"? Kill me now....and they are killing the song...
9:14 - A reunited Blink-182? Very good (and I'm happy for Travis Barker) presenting Best Rock Album...and the winner is... Coldplay...no surprise.
9:22 - Screech sex tape jokes? Awesome
Katy Perry's performing....cool
9:24 - Fruity Katy? Very clever...(if you don't get it...sad for you). Good vocals so far...and I just noticed the banana...
9:27 - Time for Kanye and Estelle now...speaking of Estelle...I didn't know they made silver-sparkly garbage bags! Cool performance, though.
9:29 - I just remembered how much I liked this song. Now, times for Best New Artist...please don't be the Jonas Brothers...and its Adele!!!! Yay!!! She looks so happy....and she's crying...OMG she just made a face when she said she loved the Jonas Brothers!!! She really does win!
COMMERCIAL NOTES: Who does Kanye think he is, Lionel Richie? Get a haircut!
9:36 - Morgan Freeman? Hmm... Kenny Chesney performs now....time for snack break....
9:39 - Not a huge country fan, but Kenny's doing really good.
9:40 - P. Diddy, Herbie Hancock, and Natalie Cole? Presenting Record of the Year...It's gonna be Coldplay...love that Leona's setting next to Keyshia...the winner is Alison Krauss and Robert Plant for "Please Read The Letter"....ok, sure...whatever
You know what, no offense to "Please Read The Letter", but what the hell? Leona, Katy, Jazmine all get snubbed, and they win ROTY? Grammys = EPIC FAIL
COMMERCIAL NOTES - I completely had a deja vu moment...when Herbie Hancock won AOTY....
9:48 - Queen Latifah presents Dean Martin with Lifetime Achievement...and the biggest performance of the night..."no one on the corner has swagga like us". I love that uber-preggers M.IA. is performing. She looks like she's gonna bust, now.
9:50 - Seriously Kanye, haircut, today. "The Rap Pack"? Everybody does look fresh, Lil' Wayne's scarf is weird though...M.I.A going into labor would be the highlight of the night. Unlikely though.
9:55 - Paul McCartney and Dave Grohl....
Ignorant question - Who the hell is Alison Krauss, who I just found out has won 21 Grammys???
9:57 - Spirited, although unnecessary, performance of "I Saw Here Standing There" BTW. Macca still has it.
9:59 - Facebook quote of the day: "M.I.A. looks like Yoshi for Mario". True talk.
10:04 - Jack Black and a guy I've never heard of, presenting Best Male Pop Vocal
And the winner is... John Mayer?!?! WTF!! Complete and utter shock.
10:07 - Jay Mohr and LL Cool J? Weird combo....Sugarland and Adele combo....weirder combo
10:08 - I may need to trek over to iTunes and find Sugarland's "Stay"
10:10 - I just learned Jennifer Nettles was the girl part of Sugarland (she performed at the Obama HBO concert)....Adele's on...love that they jazzed it up a bit.
10:14 - Adele and Sugarland duet on "Chasing Pavements"...nothing special, honestly.
10:19 - Gywneth Paltrow presents Radiohead...wonder how Chris feels about that. Radiohead totally has my interest right now.
10:21 - I'm totally iTunes-ing "15 Steps" tomorrow, this song is so weirdly hot and insanely cool.
10:28 - Samuel L. Jackson, introducing T.I. and J.T. singing my favorite collaboration of the year "Dead and Gone".
10:31 - Just a thought, has there been a year where Justin HASN'T appeared on the Grammys?
10:35 - Time for a Prez of the Academy speech about charity...using Obama-speech...
10:38 - Smokey Robinson presents Four Tops with the Lifetime Achievement award...and they are performing with Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx! Surprise performance! Love spontaneous tributes!
10:41 - Sugar pie, honey bunch....love Motown!
10:47 - Sorry, can't look at Josh Groban without thinking about his Emmy crackheaded-ness. Time for Neil Diamond!
10:51 - Time for the Memoriam. May those who passed rest in peace... (love ya Eartha Kitt and Issac Hayes!)
10:54 - John Mayer, Keith Urban, and B.B. King perform... don't really know why, but it's good...
11:02 - Why is there no CSI: LA? Lil' Wayne and Robin Thicke?? Not very interesting...When he's no screaming, Lil' Wayne actually has a really smooth flow, and Robin Thicke certainly highlights that.
11:07 - Bringing in some New Orleans spirit here...lovin' it.
11:09 - T-Pain won a Grammy....he and Will.i.am present Best Rap Album...which Weezy has on lock....the winner is....Lil' Wayne. No way in HELL he was losing that!
11:18 - Time for the two people kicking the most ass, that many people who tuned in to see the Jonas Brothers have never heard of, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss!!
11:20 - I think I may need to trek to iTunes and check out "Rich Girl" by these two, its a very chill record.
11:23 - Holy crap! Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day went blond...and presenting Album of the Year...and the winner is...Raising Sand by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss....maybe she'll actually talk this time
11:26 - Well, the Grammys are over. I gotta say, this year was quite boring, predictable, and disappointing with how many robberies there were. Check back tomorrow for my full Grammy roundup..
11:27 - Stevie Wonder's closing out...his treat for performing with the freakin' Jonas Brothers. Now its over. Night everybody.
BREAKING NEWS: Chris Brown "Investigated" In Battery Case
An hour before he is supposed to perform at tonight's Grammy ceremony, R&B star Chris Brown is reported under investigation for domestic violence/battery.
According to published reports, the singer was involved in an altercation with an unidentified woman at 12:30 am PST after attending the Clive Davis Pre-Grammy gala. The fight between two escalated after the car they were driving in was stopped. The woman called the police, and when they arrived, the woman had visible bruises, which she attributed to Chris Brown.
There is no news whether or not the woman was Rihanna, nor is it known if either will attend tonight's telecast.
UPDATE (7:13 PM) - Rihanna WILL NOT be performing at tonight's Grammys
UPDATE (7:15 PM) - Chris Brown will not be attending the Grammys either; Al Green will be taking their place
UPDATE (7:42 PM) - According to The Insider, Rihanna does have a bruised face
UPDATE (8:46 PM) - Rihanna IS in the hospital, according to Mediatakeout and X17
UPDATE (10:17 PM) - Chris Brown has reportedly turned himself into the LAPD...
UPDATE (11:15 PM) - Chris Brown held on $50,000 bail, according to FOX News
Early Grammy News: Adele, Estelle, Duffy Win Grammys
Here are some of the early Grammy wins:
Best Female Pop Vocal Performance - "Chasing Pavements" - Adele
Best Pop Vocal Album - Rockferry by Duffy
Best Rap/Sung Collaboration - "American Boy" by Estelle and Kanye West
Best Rock Group/Duo Performance - "Sex on Fire" by Kings of Leon
Congrats to all the winners so far...
Best Female Pop Vocal Performance - "Chasing Pavements" - Adele
Best Pop Vocal Album - Rockferry by Duffy
Best Rap/Sung Collaboration - "American Boy" by Estelle and Kanye West
Best Rock Group/Duo Performance - "Sex on Fire" by Kings of Leon
Congrats to all the winners so far...
WORST: 50 Cent Wears Curly Wig In New YouTube Video! PLUS: 50's Interview With Rick Ross' Ex
Rapper 50 Cent has just put up a new video on his YouTube page, where he is wearing a curly wig an acting a straight up fool!
Apparently, the video has something to do with his feud with Rick Ross, which just makes this all the more ridiculous.
Speaking of the beef, 50, thinking his Ed Bradley or something, interviewed Rick Ross' baby's mother Tia Kemp to talk about him, everything from his fake jewelry to his life as a correctional officer.
Serious, 50 needs to cut this crap out and release his album already!
"The Voice" Is Back! Whitney Houston's Pre-Grammy Gala Performance!
WHITNEY'S BACK!
The true Queen of Pop made an impressive turn at last night Pre-Grammy Gala, hosted by her mentor Clive Davis.
Whitney started off her set with a mercifully short version of "I Will Always Love You", before launching into a medley that included "I Believe In You and Me", "It's Not Right, But It's Okay" and "I'm Every Woman".
Whitney's voice has developed a rasp to it, which is a bit jarring considering how crystal-clear her voice used to be. Still decalring her career over is a massive underestimation of her abilities; "The Voice" is still there. She just needs to regain some control (sometimes, her voice was all over the place) and confidence (the audience response should surely help).
I believe this night is only the beginning of what could be one of the greatest comebacks in pop history.
(BTW: To EXTRA, you guys SUCK for your Pre-Grammy "live footage" last night)
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy Party Streamed Live!
Wanna see the return of Whitney Houston?
What about other favorites, like Leona Lewis, Jennifer Hudson, Rihanna and Britney Spears?
Well, you can watch live, thanks to Extra!
Click below to see it streamed live, starting at 10 pm EST!
http://extratv.warnerbros.com/videos/channels/?channel=79356
What about other favorites, like Leona Lewis, Jennifer Hudson, Rihanna and Britney Spears?
Well, you can watch live, thanks to Extra!
Click below to see it streamed live, starting at 10 pm EST!
http://extratv.warnerbros.com/videos/channels/?channel=79356
R.I.P.: OLTL's Clint Richie and Phil Carey Passed Away
It's been a sad week for fans of ABC soap One Life To Live.
First, the original Clint Buchanan (currently played by Jerry verDorn) Clint Richie died on Monday at the age of 70. Now, the actor who played Buchanan patriarch Asa Buchanan, Phil Carey, has passed away today at the age of 83.
Both men have spent a combined total of over 40 years on One Life to Live.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Face of the Week: Y&R's Phyllis When She Learned Nick Loved Both Her and Sharon
As a fan of Nick and Sharon, you guys have no clue how HILARIOUS capturing this face was yesterday. On Young and the Restless, Nick told his wife Phyllis that he slept with Sharon in the cabin, AND he loved both of them.Hence, the face.
You know what they say: karma is a mother.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Song Review: "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus is many things to different people (most likely depending on your age), but "respected singer/artist" is not usually listed.
It seems the Disney tween queen is trying to change that with her new single from Hannah Montana: The Movie, "The Climb". Unlike the mid-tempo rock of "7 Things" or the bouncy pop of "See You Again" or "Fly On The Wall", Billy Ray's daughter is aiming at her subjects heartstrings with a teary-eyed, inspirational power ballad, her first real one.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure anyone told Miley that teary-eyed, inspirational power ballads should be left for those who have the vocal chops to sing them.
The song itself is quite good. Refreshingly, its not about boys, relationships, or being yourself despite what everyone else wants. It's about struggle, and how it will always be there no matter what the situation is, and at end, the struggle is all that matters. Considering her past material, its surprisingly mature and thoughtful. Musically, its a typical pop/rock ballad. The song starts off soft with only a piano. It kicks up a notch with the guitar, leading to the climatic power ending. Considering the lyrics are about "climbing", its an appropriate and even effective arrangement.
So, it's a good song. Well, almost...
Miley Cyrus isn't the greatest singer in the world. In fact, she is sub-standard on her best days. A song like this requires vocal abilities far beyond her reach, in the level that Mariah, Leona, and hell, even Katy live in. While she does put effort into her performance, it falls short of elevating the song to the brilliance it probably deserves. Like her ex-boyfriend Nick Jonas, Miley stretches her voice to match the music, which does nothing for her at all. While not terrible, it's simply not good enough.
Good news: "The Climb" is a mature, sensitive song that proves that Miley has some songwriting capability. Bad news: She can't sing said song well. So, it's a 50/50 break.
P.S.: Expect this to be played at every teen dance for the next 6 months.
BWU Rates: 5/10
It seems the Disney tween queen is trying to change that with her new single from Hannah Montana: The Movie, "The Climb". Unlike the mid-tempo rock of "7 Things" or the bouncy pop of "See You Again" or "Fly On The Wall", Billy Ray's daughter is aiming at her subjects heartstrings with a teary-eyed, inspirational power ballad, her first real one.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure anyone told Miley that teary-eyed, inspirational power ballads should be left for those who have the vocal chops to sing them.
The song itself is quite good. Refreshingly, its not about boys, relationships, or being yourself despite what everyone else wants. It's about struggle, and how it will always be there no matter what the situation is, and at end, the struggle is all that matters. Considering her past material, its surprisingly mature and thoughtful. Musically, its a typical pop/rock ballad. The song starts off soft with only a piano. It kicks up a notch with the guitar, leading to the climatic power ending. Considering the lyrics are about "climbing", its an appropriate and even effective arrangement.
So, it's a good song. Well, almost...
Miley Cyrus isn't the greatest singer in the world. In fact, she is sub-standard on her best days. A song like this requires vocal abilities far beyond her reach, in the level that Mariah, Leona, and hell, even Katy live in. While she does put effort into her performance, it falls short of elevating the song to the brilliance it probably deserves. Like her ex-boyfriend Nick Jonas, Miley stretches her voice to match the music, which does nothing for her at all. While not terrible, it's simply not good enough.
Good news: "The Climb" is a mature, sensitive song that proves that Miley has some songwriting capability. Bad news: She can't sing said song well. So, it's a 50/50 break.
P.S.: Expect this to be played at every teen dance for the next 6 months.
BWU Rates: 5/10
Classic DOTD 2-05: "What Have I Done To Deserve This?" by Pet Shop Boys and Dusty Springfield
What happens when you combine 80s synthpop with one of the greatest British vocalists ever?
Pop perfection, of course.
Back in 1987, just when people thought the late, great Dusty Springfield was done being relevant in pop music, the Pet Shop Boys proved them all wrong. The duo tapped the 60s soul singer to sing with Neil Tennant on their single "What Have I Done To Deserve This", an electropop stomper that deals with miscommunications and the issues that come with them. A fine track on its own, the song was made even more special with Springfield's unmistakable, distinctive soulful voice. Her voice added more depth and made a catchy track into a memorable one.
Re-energizing a 60s staple. No wonder the Pet Shop Boys are bein honored by the BRIT Awards this year.
Rating: 9/10
Here is the video below:
Pop perfection, of course.
Back in 1987, just when people thought the late, great Dusty Springfield was done being relevant in pop music, the Pet Shop Boys proved them all wrong. The duo tapped the 60s soul singer to sing with Neil Tennant on their single "What Have I Done To Deserve This", an electropop stomper that deals with miscommunications and the issues that come with them. A fine track on its own, the song was made even more special with Springfield's unmistakable, distinctive soulful voice. Her voice added more depth and made a catchy track into a memorable one.
Re-energizing a 60s staple. No wonder the Pet Shop Boys are bein honored by the BRIT Awards this year.
Rating: 9/10
Here is the video below:
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Jennifer Hudson's National Anthem Released On iTunes; Proceeds To Aid Hudson-King Foundation
In a move reminiscent of her idol Whitney Houston, Jennifer Hudson and her record label have decided to release her rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner, which she performed at Sunday's Super Bowl.
The R&B diva's rendition was officially released on iTunes yesterday, with proceeds from the single going to The Hudson-King Foundation, which she formed in her family's honor.
The Super Bowl was her first public appearance since the tragic deaths of her mother, brother, and nephew.
If you haven't yet, please go to iTunes, go to her page, and download the single to help Jennifer in her fight against domestic violence.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Jennifer Hudson Performs National Anthem at Super Bowl XLIII
Academy Award-winning and Grammy-nominated superstar Jennifer Hudson emerged from her self-imposed exile after her family tragedy to deliver a soaring, stirring rendition of the United States National Anthem at the Superbowl.
Despite appearing nervous before, the diva did what she did best, and sang one of the best renditions of the anthem I have heard.
Here is the video:
Despite appearing nervous before, the diva did what she did best, and sang one of the best renditions of the anthem I have heard.
Here is the video:
Michael Phelps In Pot-Smoking Scandal
The Picture That Could Ruin Michael Phelps
Over last summer, he became a international sensation.
Now, he is on the verge of becoming a disgraced idiot.
Michael Phelps, who reached hero status after taking home eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics in August, has been caught smoking out of an alleged marijiuana bong. The picture ran in Britain's News of the World this weekend.
The scandal could wreck not only his image, but his career. The Olympic Committee recently enacted a four-year ban on athletes who are caught using drugs. If he was banned, he would be unable to perform at the 2012 Olympics in London, where he was hoping to add to his amazing 14 gold medals.
Phelps has already sent out an apology through the Associated Press: "I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment. I’m 23 years old and despite the successes I’ve had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner people have come to expect from me. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public it will not happen again."
There has been no word yet from his coach or the US Olympic Committee, who will make the final decision on his ability to participated in the next Olympic Games.
As a fan of Phelps, I really do hope that he doesn't get pulled from the Games. It seems like such a stupid reason to be cut.
A lesson to the kids: Do pot, and you'll go from hero to zero in a matter of minutes.
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