Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


Conrad Murray Gets Maximum Sentence for Michael Jackson's Death
(TMZ) The Michael Jackson estate believes Dr. Conrad Murray got his just deserts when Judge Pastor sentenced him to 4 years in the clink yesterday-- telling TMZ the sentence was "appropriate and called for."
A rep for the estate released a statement ... saying, "The egregious conduct of Dr. Murray when 'treating' Michael Jackson was bad enough ... but when coupled with his outrageous lies in trying to cover up his wrongdoing after Michael was dying and/or had died only served to magnify his criminal actions."

The rep adds, "Michael Jackson was one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived and he will be missed by millions." more

In related news, TMZ reports: Conrad Murray's lawyer J. Michael Flanagan admits the decision to do a tell-all behind-the-scenes documentary was "probably a mistake" ... but tells "TMZ Live" the Doc really needed the money. more on this story

Lil Boosie Fighting His Drug Addiction
(TMZ) Lil Boosie tells TMZ ... he's finally realized he's a hardcore drug addict ... and now that he's been sentenced to prison, he wants to focus on kicking the habit.

As we previously reported, the Louisiana rapper was sentenced to 8 years in prison Tuesday after copping a guilty plea for attempting to smuggle drugs into prison -- 3 separate times.

Now, Boosie's lawyer tells us ... the rapper is happy with the resolution -- because Boosie is confident officials will allow him to participate in a drug rehab program so he can beat his addiction to codeine and other drugs.

Boosie -- who's also facing 1st degree murder charges in an unrelated case -- released a statement to TMZ ... saying, "Don't worry about me I am getting help with my drug addiction and I am accepting full responsibility for the choice I made."

Boosie adds, "I am going to fight the false murder charge till the end. Love you all." more on this story

Adele and Beyonce Lead This Week's New Pop Releases
(popmusiclife) Adele and Beyonce have the biggest releases of the week. Both artists are releasing new DVDS.

Adele's "Live At The Royal Albert Hall" captures the singer in concert at the famed London venue, while Beyonce's "Live At Roseland: Elements Of 4" package features the pop icon in an intimate New York theater, along with a collection of the videos from her "4" album.

Kylie Minogue also has a new DVD out of her London concert. Hot Chelle Rae and Trey Songz have a new music for fans, while the Gorillaz issue a best of compilation. See what else is coming out this week here.

Charlie Sheen Fans Target Seth MacFarlane
(TMZ) "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane's house was ruthlessly T.P.'d Monday night by a ragtag group of Charlie Sheen supporters -- and TMZ has obtained photos of the butt paper attack.

Sources tell TMZ, two unidentified boys and one girl snuck onto Seth's Beverly Hills property around 11pm and unleashed T.P. fury -- finishing with the coup de grace ... a sign on Seth's front door, reading, "WINNING! Tiger blood!"

It's unclear what provoked the vandalism -- but the poster also taunts ... "Roast this bitch," referencing Seth's recent Comedy Central roast of Charlie.

So far, no police report has been filed. Seth's rep had no immediate comment. more on this story

Owl City DVD and Blu-Ray Coming
Owl City has announced the iTunes, DVD and Blu-Ray release of a recording of one of his headlining shows from the All Things Bright and Beautiful World Tour with the release of Owl City - Live from Los Angeles.

This will feature over 90 minutes of live performance, behind the scenes footage, exclusive interviews and more.

Filmed at LA's Club Nokia this past July, the full 21 track concert will be released on iTunes in North America on December 6th. more on this story

Q&A With Backstreet Boy Joey McIntyre
Backstreet Boy Joey McIntyre celebrates this week's release of his new holiday album, Come Home For Christmas, with a Q&A about holiday traditions, his Boston upbringing in a house of nine children, his NKOTB roots and his duet with Mario Cantone on "Baby, It's Cold Outside."

You've done quite a lot to this point in your career. Why did you decide to make a Christmas record now? JM: Well, to be honest I was itchy, creatively. I had been off the road for a couple of months and wanted to make a record. And "my Christmas album" has always had a prominent place on the back burner. It was in late September this year that I decided to do it and I just went for it. I knew time was tight, but if God was ever gonna help me out on a record, I figured it would be this one. I was lucky enough to have my producing partner Rob Lewis for this. Together we started on the same page and jumped right in.

This CD really seems to be a labor of love for you with you self-producing and self-releasing. How has the process been for you to be the artist, producer and label? JM: I feel a sense of pride with this album that I haven't felt with other albums I made. I am always very hands on in the creating of my music and writing. But these songs are special and I think I handled them with great care. From a producing side, I feel that I molded this with my hands.


Howard Jones Maps Out Tour Plans and Radio Show
(Noble) Howard Jones has released his plans for a special nationwide UK tour and a special weekly radio series.

The tour will be the first time that Howard will perform his first two studio albums Human's Lib and Dream Into Action back to back, live in their entirety, on a full-scale nationwide UK tour.

To coincide with the tour, Howard will present a weekly four-part radio series "Electronic 80s with Howard Jones" on Absolute Radio 80's. The first show will air at 8pm on Sunday December 4th on DAB, Freesat, Virgin Media, Sky, via the Absolute 80s smartphone app available for iPhone, Android, Windows Phone 7 and Blackberry, plus streamed online at absolute80s.com. more on this story

Blind Boys of Alabama, Mos Def and More for Preservation Hall Jazz Band Anniversary Show
(Girlie) Preservation Hall Jazz Band have announced the special guests that will join them on stage for their 50th anniversary performance.

On January 7th, 2012 at 8:00pm they will grace the Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall, with special guests Del McCoury Band, Trombone Shorty, GIVERS, Allen Toussaint, Blind Boys of Alabama, Tao Seeger, & Mos Def.

The group manages to evoke the spirits of times past in an ever-evolving modern context that has found them traveling around the world. Along the way, they have brought in collaborators of all musical stripes to play, honor, and reinterpret America's first true art form. more on this story

Mike Posner Releasing New Music Next Week
RCA Records plans to release Mike Posner's sophomore album Sky High in early 2012 but you won't have to wait that long to hear new music from the effort.

The first single off Sky High, "Looks Like Sex", ships to radio this week and will be available for sale at all digital providers on December 6th.

The release of Sky High comes on the heels of Posner's return to the mixtape, he independently released The Layover on November 20th. more on this story

Comedian Patrice O'Neal Dead At 41
(TMZ) Comedian Patrice O'Neal died Monday night ... after suffering a stroke back in October ... this according to his friends at the "Opie and Anthony" radio show.

O'Neal had been a staple in the comedy world for years -- and performed at the "Comedy Central Roast of Charlie Sheen" back in September.

O'Neal was a regular guest on the "Opie and Anthony" radio show -- and appeared on several TV shows such as "Chappelle Show," "The Office," and "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn."

Opie just tweeted, "Yes it's true that our pal Patrice O'Neal has passed away. The funniest and best thinker I've ever known PERIOD."

O'Neal was 41. more on this story

Tinie Tempah To Pass Out On The X Factor
(Sub) Tinie Tempah is set to perform his latest hit, "Pass Out," on The X Factor results show tomorrow Thursday, Dec. 1 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed), on FOX.

The episode will also feature another shocking double elimination that leaves only five acts in the competition.

London-born rapper Tinie Tempah has already achieved superstar status in the U.K., where his double platinum debut album "Disc-Overy" debuted at No. 1 and produced four Top Five singles, including two No. 1's, as well as winning him a pair of prestigious BRIT Awards and establishing him as the top-selling British debut act of 2010. The charismatic 22-year-old artist has now gone global with "Disc-Overy's" release in the United States. His infectious, message-driven platinum debut single, "Written In The Stars," has quickly emerged as a major U.S. hit, making it clear that Tempah is on his way to becoming the first British rapper to achieve major stardom in America. more on this story

Nappy Boy TakeOva Tour Starts Tomorrow
The Nappy Boy TakeOva Tour will be headlining Tay Dizm and feature other surprise artists from the label.

The Florida centric tour is set to kick off tomorrow, Thursday, (December 1, 2011) in Panama City and will conclude on December 18th in Miami Beach.

With his new mixtape, ART, releasing in 2012, Dizm will be hitting the road to begin the promotion. He also will be performing crowd favorites "Smoke" and "Spaceship." The winter tour kicks off this Thursday, (December 1, 2011) in Panama City, Fla. and continues in cities throughout Florida. more on this story

Mark Burnett Creating New Reality Show With Joel Osteen
(TMZ) Mark Burnett is teaming up with Joel Osteen for a primetime network show in 2012, TMZ has learned.

Burnett tells TMZ, the premise of the show is that ordinary people will give up several days or longer to go on a mission with Joel Osteen, one of the most popular pastors in the world.

All of the missions will be in the confines of US soil to "start fixing things." A deal has not been signed with a network, although Burnett has the power to make it happen. more on this story

Colin Quinn Bringing Jerry Seinfeld Directed Show To DVD and Blu-Ray
Colin Quinn's one-man show directed by Jerry Seinfeld, "Long Story Short" is set to be released on DVD and Blu-ray on December 6, 2011.

To celebrate the release Quinn will be signing DVDs and Blu-rays on Tuesday, December 6 at Barnes & Noble, 97 Warren St in New York City at 6:00 PM

Here is the synopsis: Taped before a live audience at the Helen Hayes Theatre in New York City, Colin Quinn: Long Story Short showcases the comedian's keen observations in the uproarious history of the world, juxtaposing modern-day human behavior with the rise and fall of empires. more on this story

Singled Out: Najuah's Eden
Today Toronto sister duo Najuah tell us about their current hit single "Eden". Here is the story:

It was a warm summer night when "Eden" came to us. Inspiration behind the song is a broken heart. It's about summer love, meeting someone and how quickly you can fall in love. The things you do to keep love and get love.

It's very raw and personal song. It took us a short time to write it, because it was just about that raw emotion you feel when things don't go as planned. We were both going through relationship ups and down. It's kind of like a "love gospel". Songs help you express those feelings, so you can let go of them. A way to release that energy. Eden is rooted in the trials and tribulations of love. The joy and initial experience and the loss. Also how we often feel that we need to do what it takes to keep it, even at times compromising ourselves and integrity.

I think we live in our songs and Eden is an example of this. Every time we hear it, we can each go back in time, to that moment where this "love" once existed and the feelings are evermore present again. At the same time it shows the rebellion of love. The idea that it is "us" against them. How this innate nature we have in all of us can be magical when it's right. It's just a matter of not losing oneself. But isn't it fantastic, when just for a moment you can get lost in someone else? "take me down to the streets of love...on that summer night"

Today's Day In Rock

Ace Frehley Injured In Fall
(hennemusic) Ace Frehley has been forced to cancel his three upcoming UK tour dates due to a fractured left wrist resulting from a fall in his home on Sunday.
Doctors applied a fiberglass cast to Frehley's hand and arm, and he has been instructed not to play guitar or use his wrist for a minimum of ten days.

Ace would like to convey his deepest heartfelt apologies to all of his UK fans and to make it up to them, has already signed on to headline Hard Rock Hell 2012 next December. He hopes to be able to announce the additional rescheduled dates soon. more on this story

Motley Crue To Make Announcement On CNN Tomorrow
(hennemusic) Motley Crue teased fans on Tuesday with this "Big announcement coming later this week...tune in to Piers Morgan Tonight on CNN Thursday and Friday night 9PM Eastern/6PM Pacific to see it! Until then...we're revealing some clues."

Bassist Nikki Sixx teases things a little more a few hints on Facebook. Nikki's hints suggest there's two different projects they'll be announcing, which puts the two Piers Morgan appearances in perspective.

Two weeks ago, Vince Neil pal Robin Leach of the Las Vegas Sun reported the Crue appears set to become the first heavy metal group to sign a short-term residency in Vegas. Read and see the photo clues here.

The Cult Reunite With Bob Rock For New Album
(hennemusic) The Cult report that they are in the studio, with producer Bob Rock, putting the finishing touches on material for their new album.

The band's ninth release is tentatively due in early 2012 via Cooking Vinyl Records.

Interesting to hear The Cult are working with Rock again, who produced the band's 1989 effort, "Sonic Temple," and their 1994 self-titled release.

Something has obviously changed in the band's plan since spring, when they announced that they were in the studio with producer Chris Goss (Queens Of The Stone Age, Masters Of Reality) at the controls, with an early fall release expected. more on this story

Volbeat Lose Member
(Banana 101.5) Volbeat join the growing list of bands with lineup changes this month — yesterday they announced that guitarist Thomas Bredahl was no longer a member of the band.

Volbeat themselves broke the news of their guitarists departure, posting the following statement regarding the seemingly mutual split between the band and their guitarist of 5 years:

"Volbeat has decided to part ways with Thomas Bredahl. Being in a band is in many ways similar to a marriage with ups and downs. At times you can work it out and sometimes you need to go separate ways…We want to thank him for the work he has put in for Volbeat and we wish him all the best in the future. Volbeat will play all shows as announced." Find out how here.

Coldplay New Year's TV Special
Austin City Limits will be celebrating the new year with a special edition featuring a performance by Coldplay.

The first-ever ACL New Year's Eve special -- a rare 90-minute episode -- is viewable on PBS stations nationwide on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011 at 11 p.m. (check local listings). Coldplay New Year's Eve: An Austin City Limits Special can also be viewed on demand on pbs.org starting at 11 p.m. ET on Dec. 31, 2011.

Coldplay's second appearance on ACL's stage is another milestone for the historic show and a one-of-a- kind episode with the band's unique production. more on this story

Switchfoot Kick Off Busy Year End Tonight
Switchfoot are returning to the North American road today for a series of headline dates, as well as numerous holiday radio shows over the next month, performing alongside such artists as Blink 182 and Social Distortion.

During the trek, Living Social and Switchfoot will team up to present two special shows at the intimate Largo at the Coronet in Los Angeles on December 14.

Each show will kick off with an hour-long Q&A with Switchfoot, followed by an acoustic performance featuring songs from Vice Verses.Fans can choose from a 6:30 PM or 9:00 PM show. more on this story

Rival Sons and Black Stone Cherry Spring Tour
(Sub) Rival Sons are teaming up with Black Stone Cherry for a UK tour that will take place in March of next year.

Currently on the road in Europe on their own headlining tour, Rival Sons will be crossing the Atlantic once again in 2012 for the UK tour with Black Stone Cherry, which kicks off on March 11th in Norwich.

Rival Sons drummer Michael Miley comments: "We are really looking forward to coming back to our second home, especially with Black Stone Cherry. Seems like a fun match-up. We've made a lot of friends in the UK and are really looking forward to seeing y'all again. Thanks for all the UK love. See ya's soon!" more on this story

Fair to Midland Lose Another Member?
(Banana 101.5) Fair to Midland lose the second member in a month's time as percussionist Brett Stowers announced that he is leaving the band via his Facebook page.

It would seem that the band Fair to Midland have been experiencing some behind-the-scenes problems. Last month the band made the on-stage announcement that it was their last show with bassist Jon Dicken and now we've received word that drummer Brett Stowers has decided to leave the band as well.

The initial statement Stowers posted regarding his split with the band has been deleted and while no official statement has been made by the band, it appears that he is no longer a member. See who the replacement might be

Twisted Sister Set For Two Christmas Shows
Twisted Sister have announced the 2011 Presentation of "A Twisted Christmas" that is set to take place on Friday, December 2 at the Paramount Theater in Huntington, NY, and The Best Buy Theater in NYC on Saturday, December 17.

Dee Snider, Jay Jay French, Mark Mendoza, Eddie Ojeda, and A.J. Pero have crafted this show into a hell-raisin' holiday tradition. In the past, they've had such wildly disparate personalities as Lita Ford, Mick Foley, and MiniKISS join the onstage festivities -You never know who will crash this NYC party!

After the release of 2006's A Twisted Christmas album (hailed by the Associated Press as "[one of] the best hard rock Christmas album[s] ever made, and one of the best rock 'n' roll Christmas albums -- period -- since Elvis made his,") Twisted Sister brought the metal merriment to the stage. They have continued to give these Yuletide anthems a Twisted treatment ever since. "White Christmas," "Come All Ye Faithful," and "Deck The Halls" have never sounded so electric. more on this story

Bob Dylan Producer Don DeVito Dead At 72
(Gibson) Record producer Don DeVito, best known for his production work with Bob Dylan, has died from prostate cancer. NME reports that DeVito was 72 and had fought cancer for the past 16 years.

A producer at Columbia Records, DeVito worked with Dylan on
Blood on the Tracks, Hard Rain, Desire and Street Legal in the '70s.

DeVito also worked with Bruce Springsteen, Simon & Garfunkel and Aerosmith and won a Grammy for his production on Folkways – A Vision Shared: A Tribute to Woody Guthrie and Leadbelly in 1989. more on this story



Genesis Going Back To The Beginning
(Gibson) Genesis will reissue their very first album, From Genesis to Revelation, from 1969, next year.

According to Classic Rock, the debut will be fully remastered and released on January 23.

The album was produced by controversial music mogul Jonathan King and features the original lineup of Peter Gabriel on vocals, Anthony Phillips on guitar, Mike Rutherford on bass, Tony Banks on keyboards and John Silver and Chris Stewart on drums. more on this story



Burning Love Going Soph in 2012
Southern Lord Recordings will release Burning Love's sophomore album early next year under a newly inked deal. They sent over the following details:

Following their previous full-length, in addition to a multitude of EPs and split releases and more since their 2008 inception, the title of the forthcoming Burning Love album has been confirmed as Rotten Thing To Say, and was recently recorded by Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou at his infamous Salem, Massachusetts-based Godcity Studio.

Set to be mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side in the coming weeks as the album art is completed and final release details are confirmed, Rotten Thing To Say will see release in late March or early April of 2012, with final details to be confirmed by the beginning of the year. more on this story

Nothnegal Set North American Release
Season of Mist have set a January 24th, 2012 North American release date for Nothnegal's new album, Decadence.

The album is set to release in other major international markets four days earlier on January 20th, 2012. The album is mixed by Greg Reely (Fear Factory, Machine Head, DevilDriver) and Ahti Kortelainen (Sentenced, Sonarta Arctica).

"Decadence is our first official studio release and the first release featuring the current lineup, the first time that Fufu handling the vocals, Marco on keyboards and Kevin on drums," states guitarist Hilarl. "We began writing Decadence in Summer 2010. The record has been quite a challenge for us as we have taken time to do a lot of experimentation on the sound, shifting more towards thrash and progressive metal with industrial elements making it entirely different from the sound we had on our 2009 four-track demo, Antidote Of Realism. With a completely new and original sound and attitude, we feel like we're starting again from scratch as we believe we've finally discovered our sound with Decadence." more on this story

Young The Giant Expand Tour Plans
Young The Giant have mapped out additional dates for their 2012 headline tour which begins in San Diego on February 10, 2012 and will go through mid-April.

Young The Giant has enjoyed tremendous success this year with two hit songs, "My Body" and "Cough Syrup," and have played the main stages at some of the biggest festivals in the world including the main stage at Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits and Sasquatch to name a few.

Their second single, "Cough Syrup" is currently top five at Alternative radio. Their first single, "My Body" rocketed to the #4 spot on the alternative chart while the band performed the song live at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards. more on this story

God Seed Move Live CD/DVD Release Date
(Sub) God Seed have moved the release date for their "Live At Wacken" CD/DVD. Here is the official word:

We all thought we'd heard the last from God Seed; luckily we were wrong, and January 27th in Europe and January 31st in North America, will see the release of their infamous Wacken 2008 set, where they headlined the main stage in front of 75,000 screaming fans.

The performance featured sheep heads on stakes, "crucified" nude models, satanic symbols, and gallons of sheep's blood. This spectacular show is made available exclusively in a deluxe digipack featuring the live CD and footage of the show on a bonus DVD. The packaging also contains special liner notes from the band about the process of recreating this special show. more on this story

Gary Wright's Dream Weaver Getting 24 Karat Gold Reissue
Audio Fidelity has set December 6 for its release of 24 Karat Gold CD version of Gary Wright's 1975 classic "The Dream Weaver."

Gary Wright is often associated with a specific time and cultural place: the mid-1970s, when popular music was frequently experimenting and pushing boundaries and an unconventional track like "Dream Weaver" could ascend to Number 2 on the singles charts. American-born Wright released the spacey yet hook-filled The Dream Weaver in June of 1975, after serving time with British rockers Spooky Tooth and contributing to George Harrison's All Things Must Pass.

Wright not only composed and sings all the songs on The Dream Weaver, he provides the bulk of the instrumentation, playing organ and electric piano, Moog synthesizer and other keyboards on the largely guitar-less album. The title track was issued in January of 1976 and quickly became a hit, to be followed in April by the funk-infused "My Love Is Alive" (which also rose to No.2 on Billboard's song survey). A third charting single, the more uptempo "Made to Love You," came out that September. more on this story

Rock Ridge Taking Hotel Carolina To Philly
Rock Ridge Music is expanding the Hotel Carolina brand by starting an new event weekend scheduled to take place at the Grape Room in Philadelphia on January 27 and 28, 2012.

Like the original South Carolina event (which has taken over The Windjammer on Isle of Palms for three years in a row in late summer), the Philadelphia event will feature the best in touring singer-songwriters.

At the Grape Room, there will be performances on a main stage and on a second stage with staggered times, offering fest attendees non-stop entertainment. more on this story

Killswitch Engage The Focus of Latest Lick Library Release
Lick Library have released "Learn To Play Killswitch Engage," a collection of classic tracks to help you learn the best riffs and solos from one of the founding metalcore bands.

Considered by many to be one of the founders of the melodic metal genre, Killswitch Engage's music is characterised by distinctive ferocious riffs, pummeling rhythms held together by melodious harmonies. The power sources behind the sound are guitarists Adam Dutiewicz and Joel Stroetzel who together have created there distinctive sound.

Walking you through some of the bands best-loved tracks is the incredible UK shredder and metal guitarist Andy James. Well known for his Lick Library contributions and as the lead guitarist of the band Sacred Mother Tongue, Andy shares his knowledge and experience in this easy to follow guitar tuition double DVD set. The technical explanations from Andy are concise and clearly demonstrated by the split screen that shows what each of his hands are doing at the same time. Plus you can pause and rewind the Guitar lessons on the DVD whenever you want, so you can go over any part, time and again until you really have it nailed. more on this story

Mona Set North American Release
Mona have set a February 21, 2012 North American release date for their self-titled debut album on their own Zion Noiz label, through Mercury Records

The 11-song album was produced by the band's Nick Brown and mixed by Rich Costey (credits: Muse, Interpol, Audioslave).

"Lean Into the Fall," the newest single from MONA, was blasted to Alternative Rock, Alternative Specialty and Active Rock radio formats. more on this story

King Giant Set New Album Release
(Sub) King Giant will self-release their sophomore full-length album, Dismal Hollow, world wide on January 31, 2012.

Brooding even darker and more sinister homage to their rock and metal forefathers than their heralded self-released 2009 debut album, Southern Darkness, this new album sets a new par for King Giant, further developing their hard but harmonized style, as always chock full of well-written hooks and deep grooving thunder.

Recorded at Inner Ear Studio (Minor Threat, Fugazi, Avail, Jawbox, Dave Grohl), and inherently boasting full-on Americana both musically and conceptually, the eight tracks harnessed on Dismal Hollow are easily King Giant's most well-written and monstrous anthems captured to date.

Mark Kendall of Great White, harsh words for Warrant.

Mark Kendall "Jani Lane is solely responsible for Warrant even having a career."

Great White sharks live a long time; proud, muscular beasts that control their domain and will probably continue to do so for eternity. The legendary L.A. rock band of the same name shares a lot of the same characteristics of its animal namesake. The band has been spending recent months out playing glorious outdoor summer rock gigs and doing it better than ever. While the band has made many a hit record those who are in the know are aware that the live show is what the band does best. We recently had an in-depth chat with new vocalist Terry Illous but that was heavy on conversation about his days in another L.A. band XYZ. We still had some GREAT WHITE questions after all these years of loving the band and co-founder/guitarist Mark Kendall was very gracious and answered some of them for us including the past, the recent stint with Jani Lane and where the band is headed. Read on….

Legendary Rock Interviews: Our sympathy to you guys in losing Jani, we have seen some of his performances in the band and it looked like he was back in peak performance. How much did you guys enjoy your shows and time together?
Mark Kendall: We loved jamming with Jani. He was completely professional in his preparation and he sang great. It was horrible losing him! I was working with him closely and supporting his sobriety, as I do with 6 others. At his memorial, I wanted people to know that he wanted to be sober more that anything. I sent him daily prayers and we spoke on the phone about our individual walks with sobriety. Unfortunately, his demons overcame him and it was very sad. I also let people know about his talent at the memorial. The guy had phenomenal talent not only in song writing but in music in general. He also played drums on Warrant records and is solely responsible for the band even having a career. I didn’t let any MORE information out of the bag but I will say I was upset that none of the WARRANT members showed up to his memorial.

LRI: We just walked away from a Great White show recently and were totally blown away. The band was always one of the better live acts during the Capitol years but to see you guys STILL as good or god forbid BETTER was a little shocking. Terry was amazing and sang like it was the most important gig of his life. After all these years how do you battle complacency? At this point a lot of bands try to get by on name recognition alone.
MK: Thank you John!! I think the way we keep ourselves from going through the motions is that we have kept making new music over the years. We also have extended jams that bring the crowd into the show and it’s a little different every night, which is what keeps it exciting for US. We don’t know exactly what’s going to happen from night to night. That is refreshing for a band. If we were just going out and only playing Once Bitten Twice Shy every night we would probably have to go on suicide watch, (laughs).

LRI: It was especially cool to see some of the older, “heavy metal” ish GREAT WHITE mixed in the set alongside the signature hits. Is it fun playing tunes like “Down in Your Knees”?
MK: Sure it’s fun to show people how we used to do it in 1982!!! We like to take them through a little journey with our discography, so going back to the beginning makes sense…….That stuff rocks.

LRI: You have had the pleasure of working with some really quality replacement guys in Jack’s absence. What is the plan moving forward, is it going to be full speed ahead with Terry Ilous (XYZ) from here on?
MK: We love Terry and everything he brings to the band. We will all have to wait and see what happens. We are all having a lot of fun at the moment and it is a pure joy working with Terry….

LRI: I know it’s not really lucrative to release product in this day and age but watching Audie beat the drums like they owed him money while you, Scotty and Michael are grinning war to ear makes you think. If it’s still working so well is it tempting to wanna go in and maybe cut some new material and release it via iTunes or your page?
MK: I have been writing off the hook lately and I hope we get in the studio soon. You definitely haven’t heard our last record or anything like that, I assure you. We love to create and will definitely be doing a new record.

LRI: When you guys were a young L.A. band recording the very first album what were your expectations? How did it feel to be recording an album?
MK: Well, first of all we were working with the legendary Producer/Engineer Michael Wagener so we were very excited and had high expectations. I still love that record even though it wasn’t a big seller for us.

LRI: The band started to develop its own unique sort of vibe, a bluesy signature…. It not only set you apart from the pack of other acts in the 80s but it was highly successful and sort of timeless. When did you guys realize that the more classic, bluesy style suited your strengths and needs as a band?
MK: That happened in the mid 80s. The more I wrote the more my influences started to show up along with everyone else as well. Everyone in the band has different influences and mine mostly stemmed from the blues style players and our style began to evolve.

LRI: People always say hindsight is 20/20 and “if I knew then, what I know now”….Are there any career moves the band or you made personally that you wish you could hit reset on and change any elements?
MK: Yes, I wish we would have taken a break before we recorded Hooked. We needed to follow up our Once Bitten……and Twice Shy Albums with something very, very strong and I believe we fell a little short and just needed to take a little time off to accomplish what we needed to do.

LRI: Always LOVED the song “Call it Rock and Roll” and thought it was one of those songs that should have been a top ten hit. You guys managed to end up having quite a few radio/mtv hits over the years, did it ever seem like there was any rhyme or reason as to why a song would blow up versus a song that underperformed? Can you even worry about stuff like that?
MK: The band has never picked a single in its entire career. Our job has been to write the best music we can that we love to play. After it’s on tape, you hit your knees and pray other people like it too (laughs). I have never written a single per say but I have written songs that have become singles. The record company usually has a song they want to put out as a single or whatever.

LRI: The band makes it a point to be accessible to the fans, not just over the internet but in person at every show. You don’t force people to buy a meet and greet or anything, you just make it known that you’re there. VERY COOL. What was it like meeting fans 25 years ago and how much has that changed over the years?
MK: There is really not much difference between now and back then. Our fans have always been extremely important to us and we usually don’t hit the road after a show until everything is signed and all pictures are taken. Sometimes it takes a while but we always have a good time and our fans are VERY loyal so it’s nice to actually take that time.

LRI: Your solo spot, where you jam a bit on guitar, reminded me a bit of our hometown boy Rick Nielsen. Are you as big of a gearhead as Rick and what are some of your influences from a guitarist standpoint?
MK: I’m probably not as much of a gear head as Rick, however I am always looking to improve on my tone. I have a lot of influences. Carlos Santana, Johnny Winter, Alvin Lee, Richie Blackmore, Billy Gibbons and many, many more………

LRI: Bands have to go out and play mostly the same songs every single night, every single tour, year after year. We understand the staples and the fact that you CAN’T get away without playing Rock Me or TWICE SHY. With such a huge catalog of great stuff aside from that how do you go about picking a setlist? It seems daunting.
MK: We just interchange those songs we don’t HAVE to play and that helps a lot. It is difficult deciding what makes the set at this point but it’s also quite fun actually…..

LRI: Last question, you’re off the hook so to speak! What is the biggest misconception about Great White or yourself that you’ve ever had to correct?
MK: Not too many people are aware that Great White was my nick name and it’s how the bandname was conceived!! We came up with incorporating the shark image well after the fact.

Go to http://www.edromanguitars.com and check out my new guitar. THE SHARK IS BACK FOLKS!!! Thanks for the support from all the Great White fans around the world. WE LOVE YOU ALL!!!! http://www.greatwhiterocks.com
Interview courtesy of LegendaryRockInterviews

Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


Rihanna Video Banned
(popmusiclife) Rihanna is too hot for France. The pop superstar's video for her #1 hit, "We Found Love," has been banned from appearing on French television before 10pm because of its explicit content.
Herald.ie reports the Supreme Council of Audiovisual of France (CSA) has banned the release of the clip on any French channel before 10 pm, due to what it calls far too much footage showing its stars acting in a "self-destructive" fashion, taking part in "domestic violence", taking drugs and drinking alcohol."

Rihanna and former British Olympic boxing hopeful, Dudley O'Shaughnessy, who plays her boyfriend in the video, also appear in scenes of "pronounced suggestive" content, the CSA said.
more on this story

Beyonce Releases Dance For You Video
(popmusiclife) Beyonce has released the video for "Dance For You." The clip, co-directed by the pop superstar, is the singer's seventh video debut off her album, "4."

All seven videos are featured in the new 2-disc concert DVD, "Live at Roseland: Elements of 4," which is due November 29.

"Live At Roseland: Elements of 4" captures Beyonce in concert at the famed New York venue, where she played four shows this past August, in sync with the title of her latest release.
Check out the new video here.

Lady Gaga Releases Holiday EP
(popmusiclife) Lady Gaga has announced the release of a companion EP to her A Very Gaga Thanksgiving TV Special.

She writes on Twitter: "I'm so excited to SURPRISE announce my release of a $3.99 holiday EP "A Very Gaga Holiday" on ITunes and Amazon now! Happy Thanksgiving!!!!"

The EP features four tracks from the TV special, including "White Christmas," "Orange Colored Sky," "You And I" and "The Edge Of Glory."
more on this story

Justin Beiber Releases New Video With Boyz II Men
(popmusiclife) Justin Beiber has just released a new video from his massive "Under The Mistletoe" holiday album.

"Fa La La" features Justin with Boyz II Men; the two teamed up to perform the song earlier this month on a Dancing With The Stars appearance.

The day of the DWTS gig, Bieber tweeted about the video shoot, saying:

"Killed it with @BoyzIImen on DWTS and then just shot a video for our song #FALALA with @colintilley - great night! living a dream. Thanku." Check out the video here.

Nicki Minaj Sets New Album Release
(popmusiclife) Nicki Minaj will release her new album on Valentine's Day. Tuesday night, the singer/rapper announced the news via Twitter:

"U know what??? There's been a change of plans barbz. I'm announcing the name and date today. How do I get on ustream???" she tweeted. "Its only right to announce it on the anniversary of Pink Friday right barbz???"

Minaj released "Pink Friday" last November 22. "Pink Friday : ROMAN RELOADED will be released on Valentines Day, 2012. Heeeee's baaaacccckkkkk," she tweeted, adding, "Its not called Roman Reloaded. Its called PINK FRIDAY : ROMAN RELOADED!!!!!! 4 WORDS!!!! Love u guys soooo much!!! VALENTINES DAY biittcchh!" more on this story

Bruno Mars Rains On The X Factor
(popmusiclife) Bruno Mars performed his new single, "It Will Rain," on The X Factor results show Wednesday night.

The song is featured on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1" movie soundtrack.

On Sunday, Bruno won Favorite Male Artist In Pop/Rock at the American Music Awards. "I want to thank the fans for voting. I want to say hi to my family at home in Hawaii," tweeted Bruno. more on this story

Florence and The Machine Take On Drake
(popmusiclife) Florence + The Machine recently released their new album, "Ceremonials," and now the band are making the rounds doing press interviews, including radio and TV appearances.

The group played a 6-song set for BBC Radio 1, and threw in a cover of Drake and Rihanna's duet on "Take Care," the title track of Drake's new disc.

As part of the interview portion of the show, NME reports Florence was asked who she would really like to work with, saying "I haven't got anything planned at the moment. I've always wanted to do something with Drake. We've always tried to, but we keep both being really busy and nothing's happened." Check out the Drake cover here.

Kelly Clarkson Appears On The X Factor
(popmusiclife) It was results night Wednesday on The X Factor, as the final 9 contestants awaited the news about which two would be sent home at the end of the show.

Kelly Clarkson performed her new single, "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)," on the program; it's the title track from her new release, "Stronger."

Tickets for Kelly's 2012 Stronger tour went on sale last Friday; the first leg kicks off with more than 40 dates across North America, starting January 13 in Mashantucket, CT.
more on this story

Alleged Real Father of Alleged Justin Bieber Baby May Speak Out
(TMZ) The ex-boyfriend of Justin Bieber's alleged baby mama has no doubt ... he's the daddy of the baby she claims Justin fathered ... and he wants to take a DNA test to prove it.

TMZ broke the story that Mariah Yeater sent text messages to a friend ... fingering her ex, Robbie Powell, as the baby daddy.

Sources close to Powell tell TMZ ... he's making his move because he's tired of Yeater using the kid for media attention.

Our sources says Robbie has been telling friends ... Mariah told him the whole Bieber story was BS. We're told Robbie believes she did it for the money because she's desperate for cash.

According to our sources, Powell has been approached by several media outlets to tell his story and he's reviewing his options.

We've reached out to Mariah's lawyer. No word back. more on this story

Basketball Wives Find A New Villain?
(TMZ) The producers of "Basketball Wives" are upping the drama level big time for season 4 -- adding two new cast members ... one of which was arrested earlier this year for allegedly trying to stab her husband!

Sources close to the show tell TMZ ... Kenya Bell will be joining the show this coming season. We're told during filming so far ... Kenya has already assumed the role of villain and gotten into a few fights with the girls.

Bell is a former Miss Michigan USA who was arrested for allegedly trying to stab her husband, Charlie Bell, with a box cutter.

The other new cast member, we're told, is Kesha Ni'cole Nichols. She was set to marry Richard Jefferson back in 2009, but he bailed on the $2 million wedding the night ... telling her via email.

According to our sources, Nichols talks openly about the wedding on the show and has thus far been well-liked by the rest of the cast. more on this story

Bow Wow Owes Uncle Sam
(TMZ) Bow Wow is all grown up now, but just because he's a lil older ... doesn't mean he's learned how to pay off Uncle Sam -- he owes almost six figures in back taxes, this according to court documents.

A tax lien filed in Florida by the federal government says the rapper, real name Shad Gregory Moss, owes the government $91,105.61 for unpaid taxes from the year 2006.

A pair of magical sneakers won't solve this problem. Calls to Bow Wow's rep were not returned. more on this story

Arnold Schwarzenegger Doing His Own Stunts on New Film
(TMZ) Arnold Schwarzenegger may be 64 years old, but he's still bad-ass enough to perform his own stunts ... well, except for the one he screwed up and got his head split open.

Arnold has been filming "Last Stand" in New Mexico for nearly two months. Sources on the set tell TMZ ... A.S. has politely declined the producers' offer to put stuntmen in the dangerous scenes, because he thinks it's just more believable for him to do it himself.

As for what Arnold is doing ... among other things, in one scene he's driving a Camaro, dragging a "bad guy behind" -- even though the scene involves crazy driving, it seems the bad guy is the one who needs a double.

Arnold is also doing a scene where he's suspended high above the ground by ropes -- we're told this scene is dangerous.

And side benefit -- we're told the production is so physically challenging, he's yolked again. more on this story

Vin Diesel's Chronicles of Riddick Resurrected?
(TMZ) Vin Diesel's new "Chronicles of Riddick" movie is back from the dead ... TMZ has learned ... after the production company scrounged up enough cash to pay off some long overdue bills.

We broke the story ... the movie came to a screeching halt last month, when the guy who owns the Montreal studio where the film is being shot LOCKED OUT the cast and crew after complaining that he hadn't gotten paid.

But things have FINALLY changed ... so says studio owner Michel Trudel, who claims the production company recently paid up ... and he's willing to allow the flick to pick up where it left off.

Sources connected with the production tell us ... the studio payment is just ONE step in the right direction -- noting that several members of the crew who had been griping about not receiving paychecks WILL INDEED get their cash in the very near future.

We're told that filming will resume on December 28.
more on this story

Blood Clots Delayed Michael Lohan's Heart Surgery
(TMZ) Michael Lohan did not have surgery as planned last week, TMZ has learned, because doctors discovered additional blood clots in his lung which required treatment before they could operate.

As TMZ first reported, Lohan was rushed to the hospital on Thursday after complaining of chest pains and doctors determined he needed surgery.

According to our sources, doctors discovered blood clots in one of his lungs in their original examination ... but discovered more yesterday. So, we're told, they put him on medication to break down the clots and rescheduled the surgery for Monday. more on this story

Kris Humphries Not Planning To Sue Kim Kardashian
(TMZ) Kris Humphries has no plans to sue his estranged wife Kim Kardashian over upcoming episodes of "Kourtney & Kim Take New York" ... sources close to Kris tell TMZ.

A report surfaced this week saying Kris was planning on filing a $10 million lawsuit against Kim because of how he expects to be portrayed on the show and because he has a larger role in it than originally planned.

But sources close to Kris tell us he has absolutely no plans to sue Kim and he still loves her. We're told their relationship right now is "cordial."

According to our sources, Kris is worried that the show will make him look worse than he really is ... but he understands he has no control of it. more on this story

Singled Out: The Ropes' Lack of Technology Made Me a Killer
Today The Ropes tell us about the title track from their recently released EP "Lack of Technology Made Me a Killer". Here is the story:

Toppy: Sharon and I were talking with some people after a show and the topic of judging others came up. We were showered with the usual clichés and platitudes. Someone was going on and on about how you can never know what's really inside someone's head, to which Sharon remarked, "Yeah, but I know what they want me to know." I thought it was a brilliant response. It basically shut the entire conversation down. When I returned to my apartment that night, I set out to write something centered around that line.

Sharon: Toppy reminded me of this conversation weeks later and played me a rough idea. The original working title was something like "They Want Me to Know." The concept eventually grew bigger lyrically and the line "I know what they want me to know" became the pre-chorus instead of the chorus. The notion of a "just dictatorship" became the driving theme of the song. It actually wasn't until well after the song was finished that Toppy suggested changing the title to "Lack of Technology Made Me a Killer."
The majority of the vocals sound light and whimsical, as I wanted to convey justice as something simple, clean and elegant. The vocals don't become abrasive until the end of the song, where the aim was to depict struggle, as the "just dictatorship" is overcome by the tyranny of the majority.

Today's Day In Rock

Nickelback Conspiracy?
(hennemusic) The Nickelback issues at the NFL game in Detroit rock city this past week turned out to be a non-issue, as the band forged ahead with its NFL halftime show at the Detroit Lions Thanksgiving game.
An alleged Lions fan started a petition to ask the Lions to change the halftime entertainment, which made headlines across the country.

Turns out the guy who initiated the petition had an ulterior motive: to find a way to get his friend to play the gig, Nickelback singer Chad Kroeger told the CBC's George Stroumboulopoulos. "There is an individual, who is a local artist," Chad explains. "'Artist' wanted to play the halftime show. So the guy who started the petition has something to do with [this Artist], and thought to himself, 'how do I get my buddy to be able to play the halftime show. I will start a petition.'" more on this story

Rolling Stones Stars Discussing 50th Anniversary Options
The Rolling Stones may be celebrating their historic 50th anniversary after all. Rolling Stone magazine has learned from a top tour-industry source that Mick Jagger and Keith Richards will meet next month to discuss their options.

The report carried these quotes from Richards and Jagger: "I don't see why in the world the Stones can't put together some kind of show next year," says Richards according to the report. "I'd almost count on it. It doesn't have to be the whole spectacle bulls**t again, but we've got to find our own way through this."

"It is quite amazing when you think about it," Jagger adds. "Anything's possible." Read Rolling Stone's detailed article for a lot more here.

Jimi Hendrix Named Greatest Guitarist
(Gibson) An panel assembled by Rolling Stone has named Jimi Hendrix the greatest guitarist in history. The panel included some of rock's finest-ever players, including Brian May, Kirk Hammett and Ritchie Blackmore, among others.

Rounding out the top 10 selections were Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Eddie Van Halen, Duane Allman and Pete Townshend.

Members of the panel contributed comments about their choices. Pearl Jam's Mike McCready praised Eddie Van Halen as "a master of riffs," while Joe Perry hailed Jimmy Page for his "vision of how to transcend the stereotypes of what the guitar can do." The full list will be featured in a special issue, hitting stores on Friday, that's available in four different covers. The artists featured on the covers are Van Halen, Clapton, Hendrix and Page. more on this story



Biopic of The Clash Frontman Joe Strummer Coming
(Gibson) Hollywood actress and director Julie Delpy is set to direct a new movie about the life of The Clash frontman Joe Strummer.

According to Variety, the movie, titled The Right Profile, will focus on the guitarist and singer's Clash years as well as his planned disappearance from the public spotlight in 1982. The movie is named after a song on the classic album London Callingand will be produced by Simon Halfon.

Oddly, another biopic about the late Joe Strummer is apparently also in the works. UK production company Film4 is backing a project entitled Joe Public. Screenwriter Paul Viragh, who wrote Ian Dury biopic Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll, will be in charge of the script, according to Screendaily.com. more on this story



Metallica Announce More Vacation Tour Dates
(hennemusic) Following the recent confirmation of their headlining slot at Download next June, Metallica have announced more shows for their 2012 European Vacation.

Three more dates have been added, including festivals in Germany and Austria.

"As you may have picked up already, this year's European trek has a theme," posts Metallica. "Each night we will be playing 'The Black Album' in its entirety to celebrate the 20th (ish!!!) anniversary of its release in August of 1991. We know, we seem to be big on these anniversary things lately... any excuse to get out and play!" more on this story

David Bowie Camp Shoot Down Musical Reports
The UK press exploded this weekend with the big news that a new David Bowie musical based on the iconic singer's best known song characters, including Major Tom, was set to premiere in March at the IndigO2.

The Guardian ran a detail report which included discussion of how shocked the show's organizers were to obtain permission from Bowie to stage the musical (read that report here.

However, MSO sent out this statement on Sunday from the David Bowie Organization: ""Neither the David Bowie Organization, nor its co-publishers EMI Music and Chrysalis, has issued a license for a Bowie musical at the O2, as has been reported in the U.K. There are no negotiations pending for a long-running musical featuring the music of Mr. Bowie."

We will have to wait and see how this one shakes out.

Gotthard Name Their New Singer
(Gibson) Gotthard have named Swiss-born multi-instrumentalist Nic Maeder as the successor to singer Steve Lee, who died in a motorcycle accident last year.

Maeder grew up dividing his time between Switzerland and Melbourne, Australia. The band began their singer search nine months ago, sifting through applications from all over the world. "Nic not only has a great voice and is a fantastic musician, but we also have a great person in our midst," guitarist Leo Leoni said. "We can rock again at last."

Drummer Hena Habegger said, "The search took a long time but it was clear to all of us when we met Nic that he was the right guy. With him we can enjoy the music again and celebrate new success. I'm really happy that we are continuing." more on this story



Motley Crue's Nikki Sixx Working On Two Books
(hennemusic) Motley Crue bassist Nikki Sixx has found ways to keep himself busy when he's off the road. An avid photographer and writer, Sixx has already published two books: "The Heroin Diaries" (2007) and "This Is Gonna Hurt" (2011).

Now, Sixx tells fans he has another two books in the works; he was asked "when is your next book coming?" on Facebook, and offered this response: "I am working on it now... I am hoping to release it somewhere between May-June 2012," writes Sixx. "I am writing two books as we speak actually. The 2nd book will be out in 2013."

"Neither book is like anything I have done before (I guess you can say the same thing about The Heroin Diaries and This Is Gonna Hurt too )," he continued. more on this story

All Star Buddy Holly Tribute To Air This Weekend
(Gibson) The all-star tribute concert, Buddy Holly: Listen to Me, will premiere on PBS stations beginning December 3, 2011 (check local listings).

The tribute saw a host of rock and roll stars and legends, including Stevie Nicks, Chris Isaak, Lyle Lovett, Raul Malo, Paul Anka, Boz Scaggs, Shawn Colvin, Patrick Stump, Cobra Starship's Gabe Saporta, Victoria Asher, Graham Nash, Michelle Branch, and iconic guitarists James Burton and Albert Lee performing a set of Buddy Holly classics.

The show also includes live and video tributes from industry heavyweights like Keith Richards, Ringo Starr, Jackson Browne, Brian Wilson, Imelda May and Eric Idle. more on this story



Joe Satriani, Steve Lukather and Steve Vai G3 Tour
(Gibson) Initial dates have been announced for the 2012 version of Joe Satriani's G3 Tour project.

In addition to Satriani, the featured guitarists will be Steve Lukather and Steve Vai. Conceived by Satriani in 1996, the concerts feature individual performances by each guitarist, followed by a set in which the three players join forces.

Past participants have included Eric Johnson, John Petrucci, Adrian Legg and Michael Schenker, among many others. The 2012 shows are expected include two-and-half hours of dazzling guitar playing. more on this story



Sublime with Rome Deny Break Up After On Stage Drama
(TMZ) Sublime with Rome is NOT calling it quits, despite an on-stage blow up at a concert in Hawaii earlier this week ... TMZ has learned.

Fans were shocked when drummer Bud Gaugh stormed off the stage in Maui on Nov. 20 -- after hurling profanities at the band's manager, Mike "Cheez" Brown.

TMZ spoke with Cheez ... who tells us the drama began when he grabbed his guitar to play a song with the band at the end of the show, as he's often known to do.

But this time, Cheez says, Bud had an issue with the performance -- and screamed at Cheez to get off the stage. Bud then got the crowd to chant, "Go home Cheez."

Cheez, surprised by Bud's reaction, remained on the stage -- but Bud stormed off. The band, stunned by the outburst, completed the show without the drummer.

Now, sources close to the band tell TMZ ... the guys have buried the hatchet -- after laughing about the incident the following day.

As for Cheez, dude tells us he plans to stay off the stage for a while ... until Bud gives him the all-clear to play with the group again. more on this story

Eddie Kramer Opens His Archives
Legendary record producer and engineer Eddie Kramer shot photos of Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones and Led zeppelin while working with these and other rock legends and has now launched eddiekramerarchives.com where fans can get their hands on 50 different original prints. Here is the official word:

This coming year marks the 50th anniversary of the start of Eddie Kramer's career in music. It was in 1962 that the 20 year-old native of Capetown, South Africa started working as a "tea-boy" (go-fer) at London's Advision Studios, prior to which he had been recording local jazz groups in his living room.

He went on to collaborate with some of the top names in rock, engineering and/or producing albums by Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, KISS and recorded the entirety of the Woodstock Festival. In celebration of his 50th year in the business and his 70th birthday, eddiekramerarchives.com offers 50 different photographs, shot between 1967 - 1972, the period Eddie calls "The Golden Era of Rock n' Roll." more on this story

The Flaming Lips New Year's Freakout 5
The Flaming Lips plan to rock three shows to end the year. They will first place a special holiday show on December 27th before playing to New Years shows.

The Flaming Lips will perform the two shows to celebrate the New Year at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City on December 31st and January 1, 2012.

The band promises to pull out all the stops with MORE of everything! More confetti, more balloons, massive volume, and maximum weirdness for its New Year's Freakout 5, which also features very special Guests YOKO ONO PLASTIC ONO BAND. more on this story

Diversity Key To Mastodon's Appeal
(Banana 101.5) Mastodon are one of the few heavy music bands who can go from playing hard-hitting metal festivals, such as Ozzfest, to indie-flavored festivals, like Pitchfork.

What is it about the guys that draws such an assorted audience? According to singer and bass player Troy Sanders, that diversity has a lot to do with the band's random musical tastes.

"I think it stems from the four of us our in the band, our musical tastes and inspirations vary across the entire spectrum of musical history," he told Loudwire. "The four of us are heavily influenced by and love classical music, the whole spectrum of music across the past 300 years. So when it comes to songwriting, anything goes in our band, we don't feel like it's gotta sound like classic Mastodon or else we aren't going to write it. None of that ever comes into play." more on this story

Judas Priest Slowing Down Not Giving Up
(Gibson) Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford says the U.K. metal band's so-called "farewell tour" does not mean they won't play together again. In an interview with Creative Loafing, Halford says the band is not retiring.

"Is there another word besides 'farewell'? You can't say 'retired' because we're not retiring, and you can't really call it the 'you are slowing down a bit tour.' You've gotta give it a little bit of something.

"We thought long and hard and 'farewell' is really the way you can describe this particular world tour because we're not going to do all these big world tours anymore. They've just become too difficult in many, many ways." more on this story



Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson Has High Flying Hopes For Airline
(Gibson) Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson will soon be piloting again, the veteran rocker promises. As reported last week (Nov. 22), Dickinson's employer, the British airline Astraeus, has been ordered to cease operations.

Speaking to Blabbermouth, Dickinson said he plans to either revive Astraeus or start an airline company of his own. "I'm amused that the less well-informed seem to be portraying me as having to resort to busking on the streets following the closure of Astraeus," Dickinson said. "The more astute members of my circle are aware there's rather more going on in my world. I'm already working on a plan to try to save Astraeus, or at least create a new business with new jobs for my friends and former colleagues at Astraeus. This is a serious plan involving people who are very good at their jobs."

The singer went on to express hopes of starting another company that assists in the training of commercial airline pilots.
more on this story



Bret Michaels Releases Regis Song
(hennemusic) Last week, TV viewers saw the final "Live With Regis & Kelly" shows, the last episodes featuring Regis Philbin.

Many guests dropped in to offer Philbin their best during the final week, including Poison's Bret Michaels.

Bret reworked "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" into a goodbye song for the host, "Farewell To Regis." Now, Michaels is offering up a guitar/vocal demo version of the track for fans via iTunes. Check out the song here.

KISS Remember Eric Carr
(hennemusic) KISS paid tribute to their late drummer Eric Carr on Thursday to mark the anniversary of his death.

The band has updated their website: "Twenty years ago today, our friend Eric Carr passed away after losing his battle with cancer. Over the eleven years Eric spent with KISS, he played over 800 concerts to millions of fans around the world, and he brought joy to and touched the lives of so many people."

Here are some thoughts and memories that the band would like to share: "At a time when KISS was in the midst of upheaval and turmoil Eric brought calm, and an optimism that refocused our priorities so we could move forward. I can't overstate his contribution to our rebirth. His dedication to his music was only matched by his dedication to his fans. He was a kind soul who couldn't say an unkind word about anyone and I think of him all the time." - Paul Stanley

Slipknot Taylor slams Mega-Producer Rick Rubin

November 23, 2011



Corey describes fury after experience with producer Rick, calling him “overrated, overpaid, and I will never work with him again”


Never again: Taylor and Rubin
Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor has slammed Rick Rubin as “overrated” and “overpaid” and says he’ll never work with the producer again.

They collaborated on Slipknot’s 2004 album Vol. 3 (The Subliminal Verses) and although other members of the band have said it was a good experience, Taylor had always been more cautious in his comments.

Speaking at a question-answer session with fans in Texas on Friday, the singer finally let loose his full feelings on the subject of Rubin, known for his work with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Slayer, Metallica and the upcoming Black Sabbath reunion album.

Taylor said: “There are some people who would love for me to toe the party line, which is basically, ‘Working with Rick Rubin was a very enriching experience.’

“Let me give you the fucking truth of it: Rick Rubin showed up for 45 minutes a week. Rick Rubin would then, during that 45 minutes, lay on a couch and have a mic brought in next to face so he wouldn’t have to move.

“Then he would be like, ‘Play it for me,’ The engineer would play it. And he had shades on the whole time, never mind the fact there was no sun in the room. You just look like an asshole at that point.

“He would stroke his huge beard and try and get as much food out of it as he could. He would go, ‘Play it again,’ then he’d be like, ‘Stop – do that over.’

“He had an assistant who was seven feet tall. He basically ran Rick Rubin’s life. About half way through our precious 45 minutes he would bring in this plate of shit – I assume it was food. It was bluish green and smelled like someone had just plunged a fucking toilet somewhere. He would eat it as fast as he could, just get it in there, all over himself. Which, when you’re working, is so wonderful to look at.”

Taylor said he still respects the producer’s body of past work but added: “The Rick Rubin of today is a thin, thin, thin shadow of the Rick Rubin that he was. He is overrated, he is overpaid, and I will never work with him again as long as I fucking live.”

RIOT Guitarist Hopes Reunited 'Thundersteel' Lineup Can Stay Together 'For Years To Come'

Nov. 24, 2011
Powerline magazine recently conducted an interview with Mark Reale, guitarist for the legendary U.S. metal band RIOT. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.

Powerline: I thought "Thundersteel" was a remarkable comeback album when it came out in 1988. The same can be said for this new album, "Immortal Soul", too …no?

Mark Reale: "Immortal Soul" is basically the follow-up to "Thundersteel" (1998) and "Privilege Of Power" (1990) 20 years later. The sound of the "Thundersteel" lineup is so identifiable and the songs on the new CD have the same feel and sound but with more of a modern power metal twist. This lineup's writing and performing skills have the same kind of magic we had back when we recorded the "Thundersteel" album. I couldn't have asked for more. This CD is definitely a great comeback for us, and everyone gave it their all and brought their "A" game on "Immortal Soul". I'm very proud of the way it came out. The guys did an amazing job and Bruno Ravel did a great mix and production job.

Powerline: Since "Thundersteel" the band has moved into more of a power metal style. How did this evolution occur? Was it at first due to Tony Moore's style of singing?

Reale: The "Thundersteel" lineup had a certain kind of formula for writing songs and a sound that people loved. Don [Van Stavern, bass] was responsible for a lot of the changes of the sound of RIOT during that period because of his background in heavy metal. He wrote most of the songs on "Thundersteel" and you will hear some of his recognizable style on "Immortal Soul". Everybody participated in the writing on this CD. Mike [Flyntz, guitar] did a lot of excellent writing and lead playing and Bobby [Jarzombek], of course, did his usual awesome drumming and Tony outdid himself lyrically and vocally on this effort. I pretty much took a producer standpoint for a lot of this. I am very proud of these guys and could definitely not have done it without them.

Powerline: How did Tony Moore come back to the band? Why did he leave in the first place?

Reale: When the "Thundersteel" lineup broke up over 20-some-odd years ago, Don left first due to managerial conflicts, shortly followed by Tony. We kept the lineup going with the remaining members. During that period, Don continued on in various projects, touring and recording, whereas Tony kind of left the scene and was doing stuff on a more grounded level. So I think after 20 years of that, and a home life, and then getting thrown back into the fire, it was a little overwhelming at that time for him. We all didn't know how this was going to turn out. But it ended up going from reunion shows to an overwhelming outcry for permanence. He had to step back and re-evaluate his stance during this period. I think he just needed time for this to sink in and that there was such a demand for the group. He had to arrange his personal life's schedule to give it some priority that it was requiring. He also was seeing the people commenting on him singing, everyone wanted a new CD with him on it. After his short departure, we had a band pow-wow and we decided to give it a shot again. Tony's vocals are a big part of this sound and we were exciting to have him back. You will hear on "Immortal Soul" how lucky we are to have him back. The vocals sound better than 20 years ago! It's amazing. Hell, the whole band blows me away. Hopefully we can keep this unit together for years to come, God willing.

Powerline: How is Moore after his emergency surgery? How will it affect his vocal range?

Reale: Tony had emergency oral surgery about three weeks ago and is still recuperating, but is in good spirits and doing well so we should be back up and running within a couple months. We were really bummed that we had to cancel (shows) but (it was) something we had to do for Tony. He had an infection in his jaw bone that required a bone graft which complicated the use of the mouth, and as you know, he needs to be 100% to sing this new stuff. His doctor said he will be fine and able to sing normal again, which is amazing, because his vocals still sound great after all these years. I can't apologize enough to the fans;, we were as disappointed as they were. Actually, we are looking into re-booking a European tour at the top of next year, so it's just kind of just postponed.

Powerline: RIOT thrives onstage … What will the tour to support this album be like?

Reale: The cool thing about RIOT is that we have never relied on a giant stage production or gimmicks. We've always been about the music and performance. Joe Perry said it best when he stated, "Let the music do the talking." You will see five awesome musicians doing what they love which is playing from the heart and that are passionate about the live delivery. I can tell you it will be loud and fast with lots of Marshalls. These guys are top-notch players and am very confident every time I hit the stage with them. You will leave satisfied. We will play a few songs from each album, even some very early stuff that we haven't played in awhile.

Read the entire interview from Powerline.

KISS Remembers Eric Carr’s Passing, 20 Years Ago

KISS‘ official web site, KissOnline.com, has been updated with the following message:

“Twenty years ago today, our friend Eric Carr passed away after losing his battle with cancer. Over the eleven years Eric spent with KISS, he played over 800 concerts to millions of fans around the world, and he brought joy to and touched the lives of so many people. Here are some thoughts and memories that the band would like to share.”

Paul Stanley (guitar, vocals): “At a time when KISS was in the midst of upheaval and turmoil, Eric brought calm and an optimism that refocused our priorities so we could move forward. I can’t overstate his contribution to our rebirth. His dedication to his music was only matched by his dedication to his fans. He was a kind soul who couldn’t say an unkind word about anyone and I think of him all the time.”

Eric Singer (drums): “Eric Carr was a beloved member of KISS for eleven years. His drumming was as powerful as his love and devotion for the fans and remains in the hearts of many to this day…”

Tommy Thayer (guitar): “Eric Carr was a special person and a friend. He would always go out of his way to be friendly and say something nice. I remember the band was mixing ‘Hot In The Shade’ back in 1989 at Cherokee Studios in L.A. ‘Hot In The Shade’ was a mish-mash of sorts and everyone was throwing in their two cents on the mix — you know, ‘Turn up the guitars, turn up the bass…’ I was listening and remember saying to the engineer, ‘Where’s the drums?’ At the end of the night, Eric quietly pulled me aside and said, ‘Thanks for mentioning the drums.’ He appreciated that… A good guy.”

Gene Simmons (bass, vocals): “I never knew anyone more humble in my life. Eric Carr was a kind soul who never said anything bad about anybody. He was also a double threat on drums, and vocals. I miss him.”

All In The Name Of Rock: Saliva

Have you ever wondered how or why a band comes up with their specific name? Sure you have. What I have found, through many of my interviews with bands, is that there is always a story. I will bring you those stories from all sorts of bands. Some bands you will know and some you won’t. This also will be the perfect opportunity for me to introduce some bands to you that you may not have heard of yet, whose stories are definitely equally as interesting!

Stay tuned here at Rock Confidential for some more interesting stories behind the band names, along with some kick ass interviews! All of the stories I bring you are directly from my own personal interviews with the bands.

I will admit, Saliva is one of those bands I truly have always wondered not only how they came up with their name…but why? Gross. But I will tell you, it was a very interesting anser I got from Josey Scott in our recent interview. I think you will agree. My curiosity is now satisfied.

Band name up this month is SALIVA.

“We wanted to come up with something that was already a household word. I love Nirvana, love the name Nirvana and I love their music. I just adored Kurt Cobain. It needed to be a good three syllable kick ass word like Nirvana or something like that and it has to already be a household word like, you know, something that’s cool like, I don’t know, Vaseline or something like that. And we made up a couple of other stupid rules like, you couldn’t have sex without it, it had to piss off the parents, you know stuff like that. So I was like, what about Saliva? And everybody was like…ewwww what?? I was like, what about Saliva? Just think about it. Everybody knows what Saliva is. It’s spit! And I was like, technically you can’t have sex without it because its natures lubricant. What a crazy 26 year old kid I must have been, and still am. I am 38 years old now but I am still that 18 year old kid that came up with crazy stuff. So, it just kind of stuck. It was just gross enough to be cool and strange enough to be remembered.” ~ Josey Scott

KISS in studio, day & nite recording a MONSTER!

Tuesday, 22 November 2011
KISS in studio, day & nite recording a MONSTER!



KISS spent all day (and late into the night!) in the studio yesterday working on a new song for their "Monster" album. Thanks to Eric Singer for taking these photos for KISSOnline.

The above was grabbed over at KISSONLINE.

Speaking of MONSTER. Metal Sludge was the very first to reveal this title to you back on August 10th 2011 right HERE. Then like clockwork, KISS confirmed our rumor to be true on August 21st.

Now we'll be the first to bring you the new cover art for their release MONSTER!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to all! A big thank you to all who read my blog! Feel free to donate anything you can if you enjoy the daily postings.You can donate any amount you want starting at $1.00 and the donation button is on right side of blog with the Google Checkout Logo.We just hit 20,000 hits and the daily readers numbers are steadily rising!We are starting to get more advertising so the blog can be self-sustaining.

Thanks Again!

Timmy

Sammy Hagar Claims New Van Halen CD Is 'All Old Stuff'

Sammy Hagar says new Van Halen is "All old stuff!"

"It didn't bother me when they threw me out." Sammy on Van Halen



Article from ROLLING STONE

We're hearing that Van Halen signed to Interscope this week.

What? VH? Van Halen? I don't think . . . How long has it been since they did a record? And that last one doesn't count. You have to go back to 1995. For them to take that long to make a record, I don't think it's ever going to happen. If it does, it better be good. Oh man. It actually might be. I'm not dogging them. I don't understand why they couldn't do something by now. [Laughs] Though I kind of do understand.

This seems legit. I think they actually, for real, signed to Interscope.

I thought they signed to Sony. Hmmm . . . Interesting. I'll be the first guy waiting in line at the record store, if I could find one anymore. I'll be really curious. I think they owe the fans that. I would love to see them make a great record. They have some of the most loyal fans in rock, and they've been treated so, so bad these last 20 years. I'm a real fan friendly guy.

The fans aren't too happy that they threw Michael Anthony out of the band.

It didn't bother me when they threw me out. I'm a solo artist. I can start a new band. But Mike? He's the most loyal guy, and the best bass player in the world – and the best background singer on the planet. His vocal sound is as much a part of Van Halen as anyone's. When they threw him out, I just thought "WHY? This is so wrong. This is so damned wrong!" Then to go back to Dave, FINALLY – but they threw Mike out first. Once again, it's not a fan friendly band. Eddie could have played a solo album with Wolfie. He could have produced it and gone on tour and played theaters with him. He could have done so many different things. He did not have to make Wolfie the bass player in Van Halen.

I find it interesting that David Lee Roth has barely made a peep in public since he rejoined the band. Before that, he wasn't exactly a press shy guy.

Yeah, this isn't very Dave-like. Obviously, he's trying to make it work. Look, I've been there. It's not an easy camp. It's gotten crazier and wackier, every day. I think that Dave has just learned that if he wants to make it work, he needs to shut up and hang in there and do what he can, and do what they say. It's a very strange situation.

Look, back in the day, Dave was the boss. He was running the damn show. When I came in, I was the boss. I was running the show, but I didn't want that job. It was always, "Well, what do you guys want to do?" They'd be like, "I don't know. What do you want to do?" Then all of a sudden, it became this wicked, freaking dictatorship – and nothing has happened since.

I think nothing would be more fascinating than a Some Kind of Monster-style documentary about the making of this new record. Can you even imagine?

I'd be curious to be a fly on that wall. I heard this record is old outtakes from the old days. I mean, stuff from before I even joined the band. I heard this five years ago though. Michael Anthony was curious if his background vocals would wind up on the album. I don't think it's a bad idea. It's kind of interesting. Bob Seger did it, and so did the Rolling Stones. I think it's an interesting thing to do in your old age if you can't come up with fresh, good stuff – or you can't get along. Because from what I heard, they aren't working with new material. Ed and Dave didn't actually write new songs. They took old stuff from previous sessions, and then maybe Dave had to go in and add vocals because they just had scat vocals, or even no vocal part at all.

That's bizarre, because in the few interviews that he does, Ed is always talking about how many great new guitar parts he's written.

Ed talks really weird about all that stuff recently. He goes, "I have all this music! So much music . . . " Well, they really aren't songs [laughs]. They're really not. It was always easy for me to write songs with Ed. He had all these parts, and I had these ideas. I'd be like, "Oh, go to B over there for a bridge – write a bridge, Ed." He'd do it, and it would be some bad ass shit. But it wasn't like he wrote instrumentals and I just had to write lyrics over them, like I do now with Joe Satriani. Joe writes friggin' instrumentals. Ed doesn't have any songs. I'm sorry. I love the guy's guitar stiff, but play me a song, will you?

Metal Sludge
Van Sludge

DOKKEN TO ENTER THE STUDIO FOR A BRAND NEW ALBUM FOR 2012:

Frontiers Records is excited to announce the signing of Dokken for the worldwide release of the band's forthcoming studio album in the spring of 2012.
The cooperation between Frontiers and Dokken started with the release of the band's CD Lightning Strikes Again in 2007. The album marked a return to Dokken's signature style with melodic hooklines and blazing guitar riffs that epitomized the band's sound on such records as Tooth & Nail, Under Lock & Key, Back for the Attack and Dysfunctional.
"So far we have written 10 songs in only 8 weeks." says singer Don Dokken. "Usually we spend a year or more on our music. I can't explain why this time it came so fast, it just happened. So far the music is very uptempo and heavy, of course we know our fans like the classic Dokken sound and this is where our new music is headed. It's been a band of brothers doing what we love: 'music'".
Dokken plans to finish their new recording by the end of February and go out on the road in June. In a perfect world we would like to release the new album before the summer and then play the festivals in Europe. "Then hopefully we can jump on a package tour in the US", tells Don Dokken. "We want to give everyone a great CD that will keep all music fans Rokkin' during these troubled times!"
Dokken is now formed by Don Dokken on lead vocals, Jon Levin on guitar, Sean McNabb on bass and Mick Brown on drums.
Formed in 1978, Dokken is one of the bands that defined the American Hard Rock trademark sound of the 80's. They have been nominated for a Grammy Award in 1989 and sold more than 10 million albums worldwide. Their next album will be their 11th original studio release.
WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.dokken.net.

B-Sides

Today's Stories


Top Rock Songs of 2011
(Banana 101.5) With the end of 2011 right around the corner, Banana1015.com decided to round up the songs that made the biggest splash at rock radio this year. Here are a couple from both ends of the list:
10) Volbeat's 'Fallen': The Danish hard rockers finally made a name for themselves in the United States after years of mega-popularity in their homeland. Volbeat's first single from 'Beyond Hell/Above Heaven' introduced the band's unique blend of rock, blues, metal, and rockabilly.We get the feeling that Volbeat will be a lot higher up on 'Best of the Year' lists in the future.

1) Seether's 'Country Song': The undisputed champion of 2011 is Seether's 'Country Song' — which was the most played song of the year by a landslide. A country fried hard rock song is probably the furthest thing from a safe bet, but pushing it as their lead single was probably the best move the South African post grungers could've made. 'Holding on to String Better Left to Fray' debuted at #2 on the Billboard Albums Chart, and continues to sell thanks to the powerful chart topping follow up single 'Tonight.' Who would've imagined the #1 rock song of the year would be called 'Country Song?' See what other songs made the list.

Experience Jimi Hendrix With New App
(Gibson) Say you're ready for the Jimi Hendrix experience for your phone? Now, the Hendrix-obsessed can get their hands on the Jimi Hendrix, "The Complete Experience" app for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch, available on the iTunes App Store. The app arrives just in time to celebrate Hendrix's birthday on November 27.

The app features information about albums, live performances, documentaries, images and offers the option to purchase anything found on the app from the iTunes store. Users may also go one step further and take the "experience" into the living room by streaming video to their TVs using AirPlay and their Apple TVs or streaming music to their AirPlay-enabled speakers. That's a lot of Hendrix!

The app also notifies users when there are near areas of importance to the Hendrix legacy, such as Electric Lady Studios or the Experience Music Project Museum. In other words, the app acts almost like a Jimi Hendrix-enabled GPS. more on this story



Megadeth Dave Mustaine's Favorite Things
(Banana 101.5) Dave Mustaine recently showed off his 10 most prized possessions which included an AC/DC record, some sort of Jewish ram's horn that wards off evil spirits, and a real live miniature horse named Rocky.

The Megadeth frontman sat down with Spin Magazine to list his 10 favorite things, during the video portion of the discussion Dave openly talks about his Messianic Jewish heritage, past career as a pot dealer, and openly admits to freebasing cocaine.

The video only focuses on a few of the items he listed, the others include a miniature horse named Rocky he found in a junkyard, an honorary Kentucky Colonel certificate, an unpainted Dean guitar body, a Finnish coat of arms his wife had made, a 'Troy' replica sword, and an autographed Raiders helmet. Dave explains the rest in the video which you can watch here.

Cream and The Firm Among Top Supergroups
(Gibson) The notion of the "supergroup" has always held a special fascination for rock fans, who relish the prospect of hearing what top tier artists can achieve when they join forces. True, superstar egos often clash, but when talent and chemistry come together in the right way, the results can be pure magic. Recently, the supergroup concept has taken on a new life – witness the latest entry, SuperHeavy – but through the years many major artists have attempted such projects. Gibson has picked 10 supergroups who have done proper justice to the concept. Here are a couple:

Cream: In contrast to their relatively brief period together – the group disbanded after a little more than two years – Cream's influence and enduring legacy have been monumental. Formed in 1966, the power trio of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker journeyed through incendiary blues, searing hard rock and melody-driven (though still hard-hitting) psychedelia. Tracks such as "Sunshine of Your Love" and "White Room" helped pave the way for Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and similarly heavy bands that emerged at the dawn of the '70s.

The Firm: Founded in 1984, The Firm centered on Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page and ex-Free singer Paul Rodgers, with bassist Tony Franklin and drummer Chris Slade (formerly of Uriah Heep) rounding out the lineup. Released in 1985, the band's self-titled debut album failed to light up the charts, but The Firm's music has aged well and fits comfortably alongside the varied accomplishments of both Page and Rodgers. A second album, Mean Business, was released in 1986, before The Firm closed its doors. Subsequently, Page said the group was never meant to last for more than two albums. See who else made the list here



Kyng Offer Up Free Download
(Banana 101.5) Kyng continues climbing the charts with their single 'Falling Down' and are now offering up a stripped down acoustic version for free download exclusively at Banana1015.com — get yours now!

Los Angeles hard rock band Kyng have been making a name for themselves with their debut album 'Trampled Sun' which was released earlier this year via REALID Records.

The first single 'Falling Down' showcases the band's influences like Black Sabbath and Soundgarden, and is currently on the rise on the active rock charts. Grab the download here.

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds Rock Jools Holland
(hennemusic) Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds continue the rounds promoting their new self-titled debut album.

Tuesday, the former Oasis leader and his new band stopped by to perform on the season finale of the BBC's Later With Jools Holland, where the former Squeeze keyboardist asked Gallagher what he thought was more fun: being a solo artist or being in a band?

"Well, being in a big band," says Noel, "is the greatest trip in the world…but, it's different: it's like ice cream or jelly – which one would you prefer? You can't do both: you can't really be a solo artist and be in a band. It's been tried before." Check it out here.

Anniversary of Tommy Boyce's Suicide
(Gibson) One of rock and roll and pop music's most prolific and successful songwriters committed suicide in Nashville on this day in 1994. Tommy Boyce was 55. Boyce's wife, Caroline, found him dead in the living room of their Nashville condo, where he had shot himself.

One of the most successful songwriters of the'60s, Tommy and his writing partner Bobby Hart played a major role in The Monkees TV show, writing many of the group's early hits.

But the writing success had begun back in the pre-Beatles rock and roll era when the young Boyce, only recently moved to Los Angeles from Arizona, pestered Fats Domino enough for the star to listen to his song "Be My Guest." Fats recorded it and Boyce saw it rise to the top of the charts. Teaming up with Hart in 1959, Boyce and his new pal would pen hits for numerous acts – notably "Come a Little Bit Closer" for Jay and the Americans in 1964.

But it was a TV project that would bring them to mass attention. In 1965, The Monkees TV show producers hired Tin Pan Alley hit man Don Kirshner to oversee the soundtrack for a Beatles-inspirited sitcom. He, in turn, brought in the young and hip Boyce and Hart to produce and pen tracks for the TV series. First they wrote the infectious theme tune and then saw their song, and the group's debut single, "Last Train to Clarksville" become a #1 hit in the U.S. more on this story



Josh Kracjik Sings Rolling Stones Classic on X Factor
(hennemusic) Josh Kracjik is gaining momentum on The X Factor at just the right time. The series is down to the final nine contestants, who faced off Tuesday knowing that two of them will be cut on the results show Wednesday evening.

As for Josh, the singer nailed a Foo Fighters track last week, and he brought the house down Tuesday, again, with another rock classic.

Krajcik performed a solemn, solo piano rendition of The Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses," and you could have heard a pin drop in the studio

Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


Justin Bieber Alleged Baby To Take DNA Test?
(TMZ) Mariah Yeater -- Justin Bieber's alleged baby mama -- will submit her baby for DNA testing ... this according to her legal team.
Attorney Jeffrey Leving tells TMZ ... his client is NOT avoiding the DNA test, and can't wait to compare baby Tristyn's DNA with Justin Bieber's.

But Leving says he DOES have a big problem with the DNA test Justin has already taken, because a member of Yeater's team was not present while it was administered and he has no idea if the test was done using proper controls.

Although members of Justin's team have told TMZ Yeater and her team had gone radio silent since Justin took the test on Friday, Leving says his co-counsel has been in touch with Justin's lawyer, Howard Weitzman, Monday and Tuesday. Leving says he hopes both sides will reach an agreement on a DNA protocol.

Weitzman could not be reached for comment. more on this story

Taylor Swift and Goo Goo Dolls Jam
John Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls joined Taylor Swift on stage at Madison Square Garden this week to perform the Goo Goo Dolls hit "Iris."

Taylor Swift has been covering the song in her live shows and jumped at the chance to perform the song live with the song's author.

Perez Hilton proclaimed: "Out of every cover Taylor Swift has done on this tour, we think this one just may be the best! She's not only covering Iris, she's playing it with the originals - the Goo Goo Dolls at Madison Square Garden!!!" Check out video on Perez's site here.

Adele DVD Preview
(popmusiclife) Adele has been recovering nicely from her recent throat surgery in Boston. The operation, performed by Dr. Steven Zeitels at Massachusetts General Hospital, was to stop a vocal cord hemorrhage from a benign polyp, which has caused the British singer to cancel concerts and personal appearances, in both the US and at home, through the end of this year.

Fans missing the UK singer will be able to enjoy her next week when she releases "Live At The Royal Albert Hall" on DVD and Blu-ray on November 29.

Adele is giving fans a preview of the new live package with the release of "Turning Tables" from the DVD. Check it out here.

Glee: The Music Volume 7 Details
Glee: The Music, Volume 7 is set to be released on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 by Columbia Records.

Featured on this release is the mash-up of Adele's "Rumour Has It" and "Someone Like You", which soared to #1 on the iTunes Top Songs Chart with the official video garnering 5.3 million views on Vevo.com.

This collection is also filled with tracks from the third season of Glee including Michael Jackson's "Man In The Mirror," Beyonce's "Run The World (Girls)," and Katy Perry's "Last Friday Night". Glee: The Music, Volume 7 will be available both in standard and deluxe versions. more on this story

Neil Diamond Plans North American Tour
Neil Diamond is already looking ahead to next summer as he has announced his North American tour plans for next year.

The North American tour will be kicking off in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on June 1st and closing in Las Vegas on September 1st.

Diamond will make a string of high profile media appearances in addition to being a Kennedy Center Honoree on December 27th. He will also perform at the 85th Anniversary Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Today Show, NBC's Tree Lighting at Rockefeller and the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. more on this story

Charles Manson Family Murder Auction Item Questioned
(TMZ) The Sharon Tate "engagement ring" hitting the auction block next week was NOT taken off the actresses' dead hand after she was murdered ... because she was NOT wearing any rings at the time of her death ... this according to Sharon's sister Debra.

Debra tells TMZ ... the ring featured in an upcoming auction on GottaHaveRockndRoll.com DID belong to the actress ... but she gave it away to a family friend long before she was killed by the Manson family in 1969.

Debra tells us ... the ring was not an "official" engagement ring -- but rather an "unofficial symbol of her relationship" with Roman Polanski. Debra says, "The ring was not Sharon's style and she never wore it."

Debra says Polanski later gave Sharon an "official" engagement ring -- a gold and diamond band "which she treasured."

Despite the auction house's claim, Debra is adamant Sharon was NOT wearing ANY rings on her finger at the time of her death -- adding, "Because Sharon was pregnant, she couldn't fit any rings on her finger."

Sharon was two weeks away from her due date when she was murdered. more on this story

Paul Weller Sets New Album Release
Paul Weller has set a March 27th, 2012 release date for his forthcoming new album, Sonik Kicks.

The album is the follow up to the Mercury Prize Award nominated Wake Up The Nation and is also Paul's eleventh solo album.

Sonik Kicks features fourteen brand new tracks: "Green," "The Attic," "Kling I Klang," "Sleep of the Serene," "By the Waters," "That Dangerous Age," "Study in Blue," "Dragonfly," "When Your Garden's Overgrown," "Around The Lake," "Twilight," "Drifters," "Paperchase," and "Be Happy Children." Both Noel Gallagher and Graham Coxon appear as special guests on the album.

Michael Jackson Death House Furniture Contains Secret Messages
(TMZ) Several items from the upcoming Michael Jackson death house auction -- including a mirror from MJ's inner sanctum -- contain messages the public was never meant to see ... and now, TMZ has obtained pictures of the secret inscriptions.

The mirror reads "Train, perfection March April Full Out" ... and according to a rep for Julien's Auctions -- the company behind the sale -- Jackson wrote the motivational message to himself in the months leading up to his "This Is It" tour.

The chalkboard on the right contains a heartbreaking message from one of Michael's children -- "I love Daddy. Smile, it's for free!" Both the mirror and the chalkboard have remained undisturbed since the singer's death.

Clearly, neither message was intended for public viewing -- but we're told the items are hitting the auction block on December 17 ... as is.

Check out the gallery for more of the semi-creepy things going up for auction. more on this story

Straight No Chaser Spring Tour
Straight No Chaser has mapped out the details of their upcoming Spring Tour 2012 of North American.

The dates begin March 6th at the Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and then continue through late May.

Straight No Chaser – who was recently featured on the "Generation YouTube" episode of ABC's 20/20 – will be among the stars performing at the 85th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, airing Thursday, November 24th on NBC from 9 am to 12 pm EST. more on this story

Teens Score YouTube Hit With Adele Cover
(popmusiclife) A Mexican trio - led by 10 year-old Angie Vazquez – are quickly becoming a YouTube sensation.

Angie and her band, Los Vazquez Sounds, are creating a real buzz around their cover of Adele's "Rolling In The Deep."

The band's video has been viewed more than 1.3 million times in its first week. Los Vazquez Sounds features Angie, 15-year-old Abelardo on guitar, bass and piano, and 13-year-old Gustavo on drums. more on this story

Laura Marling North American Tour
Laura Marling will return to North American next month to play a series of intimate solo dates and joins the line-up of some of the seasons' most exciting holiday parties.

Kicking things off in the Midwest, she will offer support at the 3rd Annual Daytrotter Holiday Party to M. Ward.

The following evening she will play the historic Chicago Theatre for the WXRT Holiday Party. more on this story

Flo Rida's Million Dollar Ride Paying Off
(TMZ) Flo Rida knows ... it's not very safe to keep a MILLION DOLLAR car in your garage when you go out of town ... so he worked out a deal to leave it with a local exotic car shop -- and the move is paying off BIGTIME for the dealership.

TMZ has learned ... last year, Flo decided he needed to find a safer place to store his famous Bugatti Veyron when he went out on tour ... so he approached a fancy car place called Euro Motorsports in Ft. Lauderdale and asked if he could store his ride in their showroom.

We're told management thought about it for all of two seconds before getting on board -- believing such a high-end car might attract new customers into the shop.

Turns out they were right -- TMZ spoke with one of the managers, Walter, who tells us the Bugatti has been a magnet for new business ... even contributing to the sale of TWO other Bugattis.

We're told Flo is thrilled too -- because he doesn't have to pay a cent for Bugatti storage.

And that is how the rich STAY rich. more on this story

Mike Rowe Vs Mike Rowe
(TMZ) Mike Rowe (the celebrity) tells TMZ ... he understands why Mike Rowe (the prisoner) has a beef about his name ... telling us, "The guy has a good point, I've wanted to sue myself for years now."

TMZ broke the story ... some unfamous prison inmate in South Dakota named Mike Rowe is suing the celebrity -- claiming he's constantly being harassed behind bars because they share the same name. He's also pissed that Lee Jeans claims Mike Rowe wears their product ... because "I am not for them."

Now, Mike Rowe (the celeb) is responding to the suit ... telling TMZ, "My attorneys are taking the charges very seriously. Naturally, since I got my last name from my Dad, I'm preparing my own lawsuit against him."

He adds, "And since my first name was my Mother's idea, she'll be named as well. It's a bit awkward, but I'll be damned if I'm gonna be left holding the bag on this one."

"If they'd named me Steve or Frank, none of this would be an issue. As for the other Mike Rowe, I really do feel his pain, and can only suggest that he avoid Lee jeans while behind bars. They really do make your butt look good." more on this story

Eva Longoria Sued Over Restaurant Accident
(TMZ) Eva Longoria's famous Beso restaurant in L.A. is the slickest place in town ... so slick in fact, that some woman claims she slipped and fell there at her own birthday dinner.

According to a lawsuit filed in L.A. County Superior Court, Luiza Boyadjian claims she went to Eva's eatery last year to "celebrate her birthday with friends and family."

Boyadjian claims she tried to get up from her chair and walk around, when she "suddenly slipped and fell due to the floor ... being extremely slippery."

Boyadjian claims she's suffered major physical injuries as a result of the fall -- including damage to her nervous system.

Boyadjian alleges the restaurant had a duty to maintain safer floors -- and she's suing for unspecified damages greater than $25,000.