Today's Day In Rock

Gene Simmons Vs Madonna
(TMZ) Madonna has no business performing at the Super Bowl ... this according to legendary KISS star Gene Simmons, who thinks the game would be better off with a "real band."
Simmons was leaving Boa in Hollywood last night when we asked how he felt about Madge headlining the Super Bowl halftime show -- to which Gene sarcastically replied, "I love all karaoke singers, I love all the girl singers who get up and sing with tapes ... shame on you!"

Gene added, "By the way, Madonna's terrific ... I hate the tapes." You can check out video here.

New Bruce Springsteen Album Coming Soon?
(hennemusic) It looks like 2012 is going to a busy one for Bruce Springsteen and multiple sources tell Rolling Stone that Bruce is putting the finishing touches on an album that he will release in the first months of the new year.

"He's mastering it right now," says Bob Seger, who spoke with Springsteen backstage at Seger's New York show this month. "He's says it's really unusual and that it's the best thing that he's done in years."

Three months of European dates have already been announced, starting mid-May and running through the end of July. more on this story

Pantera Member Confirmed For Next Week's Dimebash
Pantera bassist Rex Brown will take part in this year's Dimebash in honor of his late bandmate "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott.

Brown's new group Kill Devil Hill announced via their Facebook that they will take part in the event and BW&BK reports that the show will also feature Dio Disciples, featuring Ronnie James Dio alumni Simon Wright (drums), Craig Goldy (guitar), Scott Warren (keyboards) and Rudy Sarzo (bass) along with vocalists Tim "Ripper" Owens (Yngwie Malmsteen, Beyond Fear, Ex-Judas Priest, Iced Earth) and Toby Jepson (Little Angels, Gun).

DimeBash 2011 is set to take place December 14th at The Key Club in West Hollywood, CA with all proceeds from the event to benefit the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up & Shout Cancer Fund.

Guns N' Roses Honor Pearl Harbor Heroes With Rock Hall Induction Comments
Guns N' Roses have been selected to be inducted into the Rock and Roll of Fame during their first year of eligibility.

The band issued a statement on their Facebook page yesterday but also took the time to mark Pearl Harbor day. Here is what they had to say: "YOUNGSTOWN O-HI-O! Covelli Centre's our jungle tonight! So close yet still far away from the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame. Congratulations to all the 2012 inductees and our sincerest thanks to the Hall's organizers, committee members and voting delegates who supported the GN'R induction - it's a humbling honor to be recognized on this first ballot.

"While it's so easy to get hyped up on awards and recognition of the now, let's never forget the soldiers who fight for the freedom we enjoy. ESPECIALLY on this day 70 years ago at Pearl Harbor, the lagoon in Hawaii where the ultimate price was paid. REMEMBER December 7th is the day to commemorate the Japanese attack that drew the United States into World War II.

"TODAY is PEARL HARBOR DAY ☮" Facebook link

Metal Frontman Guilty of Animal Cruelty
(Rock News Desk) The frontman of industrial metal band Spyder Baby has been put on probation over animal cruelty charges relating to events on his dairy farm.

Officials were called to the property of Steven Banch and found a dead cow which hadn't been buried, an unlicensed dog at large and animals which should have been fenced in running wild.

He was found guilty on 15 misdemeanors and sentenced to 15 months' probation, a $1500 fine and community service. more on this story

Rod Stewart Open To Faces Reunion
(Gibson) With '70s band the Faces to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next year, original singer Rod Stewart has spoken about possibly re-joining his old colleagues for a show or two.

Stewart told Rolling Stone, "Oh, yeah! I'd love it. If they're all available I'll definitely make myself available."

The band also included guitarist Ronnie Wood, keyboardist Ian McLagan, drummer Kenney Jones and late bassist Ronnie Lane.

"It's something that I would want to do, but it's getting a commitment from Ronnie [Wood] who is hanging onto what the Stones are going to do. He'll suddenly say, 'Hey, let's tour next week!' I'll say, 'Hold on Ronnie, I've got commitments! I've got commitments for the next year.'

"If we all sat around and said, 'Let's do it next summer, or let's do it for charity' or whatever reason, I would do it. It's not totally ruled out." more on this story



Guns N' Roses: Adler Says Sorum and Dizzy Deserve Rock Hall Induction
(superLOUD) Rolling Stone recently caught up with Steven Adler, the ex-Guns N' Roses drummer who performed on the classic Appetite For Destruction album (as well as the follow-up EP GN'R Lies).

Although kicked out of the band for drug abuse back in the day, Steven is friendly with former members and is excited for the Guns N' Roses Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors. The ceremony is taking place in Cleveland this April.

Interestingly, he's even friendly with Matt Sorum, the drummer that replaced Adler during the making of the 1991 albums Use Your Illusion I & II. "When it comes to after I left," Adler told Rolling Stone, "I do believe that Matt Sorum and Dizzy Reed both have every right to be inducted too." more on this story

Anthony Kiedis' Reacts To Red Hot Chili Pepper's Rock Hall Induction
(hennemusic) Artist reactions on Wednesday's Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame announcement continue to surface, including Red Hot Chili Peppers singer Anthony Kiedis.

Rolling Stone caught up with Kiedis while the band is touring Europe in support of their latest album, "I'm With You," to get his reaction and thoughts on the big news.

Upon hearing the Peppers were to be inducted, the first thing Anthony did was call family. "I called my dad," says the singer. "I told him that he couldn't say anything because it hadn't been publicly announced yet. I know my dad is a big Internet freak, and he's been known to be a Wikileaker. I was like, 'Dad, you and I are blood. I'm going to tell you something, but you can't tell anybody.' I guess it's just something that you want to share with the people that you're closest to, like family and longtime friends. My dad cried." more on this story

Anthrax Remember Dimebag
(Rock News Desk) Anthrax bassist Frank Bello has hailed Dimebag Darrell Abbott as the sixth member of the thrash band.

Dime was shot dead on stage on December 8, 2004, and the tragedy was a double-blow for Bello, whose brother was murdered in 1996. The crime was never solved.

The Pantera guitarist played on three Anthrax albums and the band's new release includes a track called In The End, which pays tribute to him. "We were so close to him – he was one of us. Dimebag was the sixth member of Anthrax. I thought paying tribute to him in song was a great idea," Bello tells Revolver. "I lost a brother 13 years ago. Then to have Dimebag go in such a bad, traumatic way… He was like a brother to me." more on this story

Metallica To Rock Prison
Metallica are headed back to prison for a little rock. Last week the band announced additional dates for their upcoming Black Album anniversary tour next summer.

They also announced that one of the dates they added was to be "in Denmark in Horsens on June 6 at "The Prison" (really a former state prison!!) and we are proud to be playing at the first show ever at this new venue."

Zap2it reports that the venue in question is Statsfaengsel in Denmark. The jail, which used to house serial killer and mass murderers, closed in 2006. more on this story

Drowning Pool and Nonpoint Supergroup
Rockers from Drowning Pool and Nonpoint have come together to form a new supergroup called Voodoo Corps.

Loudwire reports that the new group: consists of Drowning Pool guitarist C.J. Pierce and drummer Mike Luce along with former Nonpoint members Zach Broderick on guitar and Ken MacMillan on bass.

Voodoo Corps offers the experience accumulated by two of the genre's most successful bands as well as their own nu-metal and groove metal sensibilities, which the band describes on their Facebook page as, "Motorcycle Metal meets your mom's homemade meatloaf!!!"

You can learn more and hear what they sound like here.

Rolling Stones' Original Let It Bleed Artwork On The Block
(Gibson) The original artwork for The Rolling Stones' Let It Bleed album is up for auction. So what? Well, it was sleeve art with a complex history.

In 1969, the Stones' Keith Richards commissioned his friend Robert Brownjohn to design the now-iconic cover for Let It Bleed. Richards, after leaving art school in 1962, had taken his portfolio around several of the top London designers, including Brownjohn.

The Let It Bleed cover displays a surreal sculpture made by Brownjohn. It consists of the LP being played with an old-style phonogram arm, which is fitted with an automatic changer spindle supporting a number of items that include (instead of LPs): a dinner plate with a magnetic tape/film reel canister, a clock face, a pizza, a bicycle tire, and cake with garish icing and the band itself in the form of wedding cake-style topping figures. more on this story



Lost Clarence Clemons Christmas Songs Released
(Oceangate Records) Two newly discovered Christmas songs recorded in 1981 by the late great E Street Band saxophonist Clarence Clemons have arrived just in time for the holidays.

The special CD entitled There's Still Christmas features Clarence singing tenderhearted lead vocals on the poignant title track "There's Still Christmas" (co-written by Dennis Bourke and the late Stevie Betts), while the second track showcases the Big Man on sax on the holiday classic "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts)."

Producers Dennis Bourke and Jim Nuzzo helmed the recording session that produced the two never-before-released tracks. Armed with the support of the Clarence Clemons Trust and his son Clarence Clemons III (a.k.a. Nick Clemons), the producers are honored to be a part of this celebrated legacy with this unique release. Bourke and Nuzzo recall, "We were blessed to have the opportunity to share some time with Clarence and record these marvelous Christmas tunes. He poured himself into the project, wearing Santa gear and capturing the essence of the season. more on this story

Donovan Honored By Rock Hall Induction
(hennemusic) Scottish folk hero Donovan will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next year. The singer/songwriter joins Guns N' Roses, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Beastie Boys, The Small Faces/The Faces and Laura Nyro in the Class of 2012.

Rolling Stone caught up with Donovan on Wednesday, on vacation in Monaco, to get his thoughts on the Hall Of Fame news.

"It's a singular honor, and I'm pleased as punch, as they say in England and Scotland," began Donovan. "It's even more special because I'm going to be there with some of my favorite artists and musicians. The Faces are my old chums. We used to hang out. The Chilis, some of them appeared on my Rick Rubin album. Guns N' Roses, who I've come to know in California and did a couple of things with. Of course, the Beastie Boys. A very touching part of this, for me, is the inclusion of the lovely Laura Nyro, who left us too soon, of course. When I was younger, I followed her rise and her extraordinary work. It will be great to see her honored too." more on this story

Slash, Duff and Adler React To Guns N' Roses Rock Hall Induction
Original Guns N' Roses members Slash, Duff McKagan and Steven Adler have all reacted to the news that they will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next year.

Slash: "Thanks for all the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame mentions. It's quite an honor to be inducted. Cheers!"

Duff McKagan: "Thanks to all of you for overwhelming number of 'congratulations' that I have received today. Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame? Life is good! Killer!"

Steven Adler: "Thank you all for your support in making this happen. It really means a lot to me. I am happy and excited to be a part of this!"

Blabbermouth has more information on the Induction including comments from current members here.

Yes Stars Announce Circa New Year's Eve Webcast
Circa have special plans for New Year's Eve and fans can join in the fun online. Glass Onyon sent over these details:

Circa: featuring former Yes members Billy Sherwood & Tony Kaye with Johnny Bruhns & Scott Connor will be in concert, live, interactive, in real time and brought directly to your home via their new UStream channel "CIRCA: HQ" on December 31, 2011 (6:00 PM PST / 9:00 PM EST).

Performing songs from the newly released CIRCA: 'And So On' CD (available at www.circahq.com) as well as selected cuts from their previous studio CDs 'CIRCA: 2007' and 'CIRCA: HQ', and other tracks from their collective musical pasts. more on this story

Flea Reacts To RHCP Rock Hall Induction
(hennemusic) Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea is thrilled with the news that the band will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next year and shared his thoughts with fans."We are getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I am not usually one to get to excited about awards or accolades, but about this one I am very excited indeed.

"Our band is really riding a high right now. We are out on the road, playing some of best shows we have ever done. We are establishing a new language with Josh and there is a feeling of hope and potential in what we are doing that is really inspiring to us. Each time we step out on the stage it feels so creative and vibrant, we are really having a blast playing the shows and it fills my days with meaning. I feel an infinite energy from what we are doing and looking forward to taking this togetherness we are forging out on tour, and getting in the studio and making new music. Feels like we are growing like a new born baby, and that is best feeling that I can have ever have in our band.

"So hearing this news about the hall of fame now really seems like it has extra significance for me. To be recognized this way seems especially full and profound. It makes me think about Hillel Slovak, without whom we would have never existed, and who created with us the foundation of our sound. He directly influences everything we have ever done. What he did with us in our early years is the blueprint of what we are. This would have meant a lot to him, and I love him so much. And of course, the mighty Jack Irons, our other founding member, who fortunately, is here to enjoy this moment with us." more on this story

Roy Orbison's Widow Barbara Dies On the Anniversary of His Death
(Gibson) Sad news that Barbara Orbison, widow of rock legend Roy and a great friend of Gibson Guitar, passed away on Tuesday in Los Angeles. According to BBC News, a family spokeswoman said she died at a medical facility on the 23rd anniversary of her husband's death.

Barbara Orbison had managed Roy's estate since the '80s. In 2008, she produced the definitive four-CD box set of her husband's work and worked closely with Gibson on the Roy Orbison signature 12-string guitar.

Barbara also ran the Nashville publishing company Still Working Music and in January 2010, proudly accepted a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Roy's behalf. more on this story



Anniversary of John Lennon's Murder
(Gibson) On this day in 1980, John Lennon was shot five times by 25 year old Mark Chapman outside the Dakota building in New York City where John and Yoko lived. Chapman had been stalking Lennon for days outside the Dakota apartments and asked for an autograph as Lennon walked through the courtyard. As he signed a piece of paper Chapman fired. Lennon was pronounced dead from a massive loss of blood at 11.30pm. Gibson takes a look back:

Looking back at the history of rock and roll, two figures truly stand head and shoulder above everyone else: Elvis Presley and John Lennon. Presley, because he was the first, the innovator and established the style, the sound, the wardrobe and the attitude for rock and roll's rebellion. But Lennon and The Beatles took music to another level. In their capable hands, it became art, it became worthy of intellectual discussion and it took on the establishment with generational and cultural warfare.

Lennon might have been murdered on this day in 1980, but his legacy, his music and his example live on. The Beatles, also featuring the brilliant Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, and the other George (Martin), were always Lennon's band. His inner turmoil, his chronic pain at being rejected as a kid and his devotion to rock and roll as a troubled teen drove The Beatles from Liverpool dives to Hamburg beer dens to theaters and stadiums around the world.

When he discovered that being at the "toppermost of the poppermost" was more nightmare than dream, he withdrew from his mates and isolated himself until ready to break apart the band he created. more on this story



Father Of The Doors
(Rock News Desk) Doors icon Ray Manzarek has recalled the moment his impoverished young band had to beg for money to buy a keyboard. And guitarist Robby Krieger's dad only agreed to pay up one on stringent condition.

Manzarek says that even though he already owned one keyboard, the band's music couldn't have worked without the second instrument.

"My right hand played the organ, with all the filigrees, while the left hand played the same thing over and over again on the bass keyboard. The effect was to go from boring to hypnotic," He tells Gibson.com. "I remember we had to ask Robby's father for the money to buy the keyboard bass. We told him we would pay him back, and he said, "Tell you what. You pay me back if you go nowhere. All I ask is that you write a hit single." more on this story

Roman Candle Giving Away Christmas Song
Roman Candle are giving fans a free download of their new Christmas song "It's Christmas. Go On and Say Hello".

Written with and featuring Keegan DeWitt, and recorded in drummer Logan Matheny's Nashville studio, the song can now be streamed and downloaded here.

Early next year, Roman Candle will also release a Live at Billy Reid EP, recorded by Josh Smith (of Third Man Records) during their acoustic in-store performance at Billy Reid's Nashville store last October. more on this story

Neon Trees Releasing New Song
Neon Trees will be releasing a new album in 2012 but fans can get a taste with the release of a new advance single "Everybody Talks."

The new single, "Everybody Talks" will be for sale at all digital retailers on December 20th.

This marks Neon Trees' first project with producer Justin Meldal-Johnsen (who has worked previously with Beck, Garbage, and M83).

Rolling Stone is streaming the new song here.

The Sheds Streaming New Song Featuring Transit Members
The Sheds have posted their new track "Heart" from their upcoming EP 'Self/Doubt' on their Facebook page.

The track features guest appearances by Joe Boynton and Tim Landers of Transit and can be heard here.

he EP is set to be released by Rite Of Passage Records digitally and on 7" vinyl in early 2012, however fans will be able to pick up a limited edition CD version of the EP during the band's upcoming tour with Set Your Goals, This Time Next Year, and The Story So Far. more on this story

More on Sheds - Sheds Music - Sheds Tour Dates/Tickets - Sheds CDs, vinyl and rarities
Rival Sons Special Tour End Show Tonight
Rival Sons are celebrating the conclusion of their first European headlining tour with a special end-of-tour show.

The special event is set to take place tonight, Thursday, 8th December at Nambucca in London.

Rival Sons have had a busy year with massive touring in support of their latest album Pressure & Time.

Black Pyramid Set New Album Release
Black Pyramid have set a January 31, 2012 release date for their sophomore album, Black Pyramid II.

Recorded "in the foothills of the Berkshires" at Black Coffee Sound (Elks, Elder) and mixed by Justin Pizzoferrato (Sonic Youth / Witch / Dinosaur Jr.), the record features nine tracks of the band's self-titled "galloping war metal".

Black Pyramid II was mastered by Matt Washburn (Mastodon) and is "at times a bit more death metal and black metal influenced" than the band's previous material, boasting a rich sound that will find immediate appeal in fans of Sleep, OM, The Gates of Slumber, In Solitude, Graveyard and Witchcraft. more on this story

Twin Atlantic Joining You Me At Six and The Swellers Tour
Twin Atlantic will hit the North American road in late January as direct support on the You Me At Six and The Swellers co-headline tour, along with openers We Are The Ocean.

The tour kicks off January 24 in Cleveland, OH and wraps on Valentine's Day in Los Angeles, CA.

Twin Atlantic are currently back in the UK on a sold out headline trek that ends on December 12

Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


Blink-182, Christina Perri, Florence + The Machine For New Year's
The Los Angeles lineup for "New Year's Rockin' Eve 2012" has been announced and they pulled out some big guns for the live broadcast.
The special will live from ABC Studios in New York on Saturday, December 31 on the ABC Television Network. Jenny McCarthy will report live from Times Square and Fergie will host the Los Angeles party segments.

The Los Angeles party will include performances by The Band Perry, blink-182, Christina Perri, Florence + The Machine, Gym Class Heroes, LMFAO, OneRepublic, Nicki Minaj, Taio Cruz and will.i.am. They join the previously announced New York lineup which includes Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Pitbull and Hot Chelle Rae. more on this story

Airline Pilot Ejects Alec Baldwin From Flight
(TMZ) The last straw in the Alec Baldwin/American Airlines incident came when he "slammed" the bathroom door so loudly the captain of Flight 4 had to get involved ... according to people on the plane.

We're told Baldwin's tweets about the incident are on point -- flight attendants wanted him to shut off his cell phone in the middle of a game of "Words with Friends" ... after the cabin door closed, but the plane remained at the gate.

But according to passengers ... after the confrontation over his phone, Alec got up to go to the bathroom and angrily slammed the lavatory door. We're told it was so loud the captain called back to flight attendants to find out what was happening.

That's when the captain himself made the call to have Baldwin removed.

Sources close to Alec claim he did not slam the door, and only got up to get the flight attendant's name so he could file a complaint -- but because the fasten seat belt sign was on he was asked to leave the plane.

Alec boarded the next LAX-JFK flight. more on this story

Los Angeles Lakers Star Cleared In Rape Investigation
(TMZ) Los Angeles Lakers forward Devin Ebanks -- a 2nd round draft pick in 2010 -- is off the hook in an LAPD rape investigation ... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... the alleged victim told police Ebanks took her home from a nightclub on September 13, 2011 ... but when she turned down his sexual advances, Ebanks "forcibly penetrated [her] vagina with his penis five to ten times."

Cops say the woman reported the alleged incident to police later that night. But here's where it gets crazy -- cops say the woman wanted to get Ebanks to admit to the sex, so she sent him a text message FALSELY claiming he had given her a sexually transmitted disease.

But Ebanks didn't fall for the trap -- and replied that he couldn't have transmitted anything to her ... BECAUSE THEY NEVER HAD SEX!!!

We're told the woman also underwent a sexual assault examination, which revealed no foreign DNA anywhere on her body.

The L.A. County District Attorney eventually decided the woman had no credible evidence to back her story -- and rejected the case against Ebanks.

A rep for Ebanks had no comment -- but sources close to the Lakers tell TMZ, it's not the first time the alleged victim has made such accusations against pro ballers ... and law enforcement sources confirm that's the case. more on this story

Soulja Boy Vs Ex-Manager
(TMZ) Soulja Boy was nothing more than an ignorant 16-year-old when he skyrocketed to fame in 2007 -- and now, the rapper's suing his ex-manager ... claiming the guy took advantage of his naive teenage brain.

Soulja filed the documents in Georgia Superior Court, claiming his manager/lawyer Philip Ransom coerced him into signing multiple contracts when he was just starting out -- contracts that were "unconscionable, oppressive, and unjust."

According to the docs, the contracts included a management agreement that gave Ransom 5% of Soulja's income ... forever ... relating to work the rapper completed while Ransom was his manager.

Another contract allegedly gave 50% of all Soulja's music copyrights to his record label -- a deal the rapper now claims is "commercially unreasonable" and "contrary to music industry custom and practice."

But in reality, Soulja's just bitching because he didn't read the fine print -- the contracts Soulja signed ARE industry standard ... some recording contracts even take 100% of the copyrights.

Ransom denies the allegations -- filing new legal docs claiming Soulja's full of crap ... and still owes him money from their time together. more on this story

Backstreet Boy A.J. McLean Sends Out Death Themed Wedding Invites
(TMZ) He's getting married next week ... but Backstreet Boy A.J. McLean has blood on his mind -- sending out death-themed invitations that look like they were designed by Ed Hardy and Dracula ... and we got pics.

A.J. and his GF Rochelle Karidis are set to tie the knot on December 17 -- presuming all his guests aren't completely freaked out by the invites ... which contain bloody lettering and creepy gothic imagery.

The ceremony will take place at the Beverly Hills Hotel -- and celeb photographer Tyler Shields is officiating.

Don't get your hopes up for pics though -- according to the invites, all cell phones and cameras are banned. Check out photos of the invites here.

Rap History Celebrated With Profile Records Rap Anthology
(Legacy) Giant Record: Profile Records Rap Anthology puts a spotlight on the story of one of hip-hop's true super-powered indie labels.

The chrono­logically-arranged, 31-song double-CD will be available at all physical and digital retail outlets starting January 31, 2012

At the peak of its success and influence during the 1980s and '90s, New York-based indie label Profile Records boasted an artist roster that read like the Who's Who of hip-hop and rap stars – from Run-D.M.C., Dana Dane, Special Ed and Rob Base, to DJ Quik, Nine, Poor Righteous Teachers, and Onyx, to name just a few. The Profile logo was a familiar symbol to fans on the street, as the company shipped hundreds of thousands of records every month, billed tens of millions of dollars in its best years, and stacked up more RIAA gold and platinum plaques than they could count. more on this story

X Factor Winner Not Capped at $5 Million
(TMZ) If the $5 MILLION recording contract wasn't enough ... TMZ has learned the people behind 'X Factor' are willing to shell out MILLIONS more to the winner ... depending on how hard the soon-to-crowned champ works after the show.

Here's the deal -- each contestant signed a contract which states that if they win the show, they will get their $5 million over a period of 5 years ... $1 mil-per-year.

According to the contract, obtained by TMZ, the $5 mil is an "advance" on any earnings the winner brings in from record sales, merchandise sales, the official tour and more ... during the 5 years.

But the earnings are not capped at $5 mil -- if the performer generates more than $5 mil during the length of the deal, that person will get a cut of the profits. The more they sell, the more they rake in.

And there's more ... the singer is entitled to even more cash for any live performances outside of the official tour -- 30% of royalties from each gig -- and that money does NOT count toward the original $5 mil.

The show is down to the final 5 -- might to be time to invest in an accountant (we're lookin' at YOU Rachel Crow). more on this story

Brandy Lands New TV Series Role
Brandy has joined the cast of the BET series "The Game" where she will be playing Chardonnay, a sassy bartender who unexpectedly becomes Jason's (played by Coby Bell) new love interest.

According to the show's producers, Brandy's character is a "fun, strong woman who gives Jason a run for his money because she's the first woman to turn him down and call him on his BS." The new season of "The Game" begins Tuesday, January 10, at 10pm ET/PT.

Brandy is currently in the studio working on her new album with a lineup of superstar talent and A-list producers that have been handpicked by Chameleon Records CEO Breyon Prescott, including Sean Garrett, Rico Love, Bangladesh, Timbaland, Frank Ocean, Jim Jonsin, Hit Boy, Ester Dean and Danja Hands. more on this story

Tanya Tucker Releases Christmas Single
Yesterday country star Tanya Tucker digitally released her new single, "Merry Christmas Wherever You Are."

Tanya offers, "With so many troops deployed overseas and with the economy being such that people are having to relocate to find work, recording this track was a very personal and emotional experience. Also, when I recorded that vocal, I was thinking of all the parents who had missing children and all the children who no longer had a parent to share this very special time."

Christmas has always been Tanya's favorite holiday and plans on putting together a full length Christmas record next year. Take a listen to the new song here.

Real Housewives of New Jersey Star Denies Stripper Reports
(TMZ) "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star Melissa Gorga is adamant she never, ever STRIPPED during her stint as a bartender at Lookers Gentleman's Club in New Jersey ... and now she's threatening to sue anyone who says otherwise.

Gorga's has been hounded by the stripper talk ever since a former Lookers employee began calling BS on Melissa to the media ... insisting she was an exotic dancer at the club.

But Gorga claims she can PROVE she never got naked -- unearthing payroll sheets which list her as a "bar maid" ... and getting a sworn affidavit from longtime club owner Chris Kontos, in which he testifies Melissa "worked solely in the capacity as a bartender."

Gorga has also hired attorney James J. Leonard Jr. -- who tells TMZ, "At this time we are aggressively pursuing the commencement of litigation against any and all individuals, in any jurisdiction, who have or continue to disseminate false statements against Melissa Gorga." more on this story

The Practice Star Crashes Into Female Biker
(TMZ) "The Practice" star Rhona Mitra allegedly caused a major David vs. Goliath car accident -- as in her giant SUV vs. a motorcycle -- and now the other driver is demanding Mitra pay up for causing "severe injuries" to herself and the bike.

According to a lawsuit filed in L.A. Superior Court back in September, Mitra was driving her 2002 Mercedes Benz G500 around in Venice, CA back in March ... when she collided with a female biker.

The alleged victim claims she was seriously messed up in the wreck -- and wants Mitra to fork over more than $25 to pay for all of her pain and suffering ... plus repairs to the bike.

Mitra's rep tells TMZ ... cops believe she was not to blame for the wreck .... but the insurance companies for both sides are talking in the hopes of resolving everything. more on this story

A Skaggs Family Christmas Live Set To Air This Week
(Webster) A Skaggs Family Christmas Live will be airing on RFD-TV on December 8 and 9.

The hour-long extravaganza features Ricky, his wife Sharon, and their children Luke and Molly, and includes Buck and Cheryl White and Cheryl's daughter Rachel Leftwich.

Also performing is Ricky's band Kentucky Thunder along with Jim Gray and the Nashville Session Players. The troupe treats fans to traditional holiday favorites as well as new songs that are sure to become seasonal standards. The special is the perfect accompaniment to a warm fire, sweet eggnog and yuletide cheer. more on this story

Have A Mary Mary Christmas Tour Canceled
Sister duo Mary Mary (Erica and Tina Campbell) have been forced to cancel their first ever "Have A Mary Mary Christmas Tour" as Erica's February due date draws near.

The singer has been advised by doctors that she cannot continue working at her current pace without risk of potential premature delivery. After careful consideration, the ladies have determined it is best to cancel the entire tour at this time, including their New Year's Eve show.

Up to now, the ladies have been on an exhaustive cross-country schedule of promotional activities, and, given the medical opinion, recognize what the priorities must be. more on this story

Kardashians Get Nailed Equally
(TMZ) All Kardashian women may not be created equal ... but one of the biggest nail polish companies on the planet is sure paying them like they are ... and get this -- even the half-sisters are raking in BIG MONEY.

TMZ has learned ... all 6 K-ladies (Kris, Kim, Kourtney, Khloe, Kylie and Kendall) inked a deal with OPI back in March to become spokeswomen for a Kardashian line of nail polish ... featuring colors like:

Sealed with a Kris -- an intense dark red tone
Kim-pletely In Love – a soft, delicate pale pink hue
Khloe Had a Little Lam-Lam – an eye-catching dark emerald hue
Listen to Your Momager! – a striking deep blue tone

According to the contract, obtained by TMZ, the family was guaranteed $600,000 up front -- plus a cut of the nail polish profits.

Here's the thing ... the documents show the money is being divided EQUALLY between all of the women -- that's $100k-per-gal for all you math wizards out there.

Shocking considering Kim is in her own stratosphere when it comes to star-power ... then again, they say charity starts in the home.

Fun Fact -- each lady has requested to be paid through their very own corporations ... which have names like Kimsaprincess Inc., 2Die4Kourt Inc. and KhloMoney Inc.
more on this story

From X Games To X Rated
(TMZ) A butt naked Shaun White smiled for the camera ... while messing around on a bed with a hot naked lady back in 2009 ... and now the X-rated photos are being shopped around town ... TMZ has learned.

Sources tell TMZ ... the photos were taken at a hotel party ... a short time before The Flying Tomato won a gold medal at the 2009 Winter X-Games for Superpipe (haha ... superpipe).

We're told several party goers managed to snap photos of the naked romp -- but we're told people close to White immediately tried to run damage control and told people to erase all of the pictures.

Now, at least two of the pics have surfaced ... one featuring Shaun making out with a hot blonde chick in front of other people ... with their clothes on.

The other pic shows Shaun with the same woman -- sans clothes -- in the middle of a missionary-style embrace on a bed ... with Shaun grinning at the direction of the camera.

TMZ has seen the pics ... let's just say the ginger carpet matches the ginger drapes.

We're told the buyer is looking for a serious payday -- but so far, has not found a buyer.

We've spoken to a rep for White ... so far, no comment.
more on this story

Dr. Drew Hooks Up Octomom
(TMZ) Just weeks after Dr. Drew promised Octomom free internet service ... to help the mom-of-14 take online classes and get a damn job ... the former "Celebrity Rehab" host has made good on his word.

In case you missed it -- Dr. Drew offered Nadya Suleman an all-inclusive life improvement package last month on his show ...

Including a 6-month personal trainer online certification program, a year of cleaning services, and a year of child care services. more on this story

Singled Out: Roma! The Band
AOL music just premiered Roma! The Band's new video and to celebrate we asked vocalist Stiletto to tell us about a couple of other tracks from their debut album "The Wild Party". Here are the stories:

"Queenie" was the first song we wrote with our producer, David Barratt. The girls and I showed up for rehearsal one day, and David said: "We're going to write a song." He called out three chords, and told the girls to play any melody they wanted. Same for the drums.

To everyone's amazement, we had a seriously catchy riff on our hands within a matter of minutes. I remember thinking it sounded like one of my favorite Velvet Underground songs.

Then David turned to me and went: "What's your favorite poem?"

"Of all time?" I asked.

"Of all time," he answered. "Without thinking."

"The Wild Party," I said, without thinking. "It's a sleazy epic poem from the twenties by this guy named Joseph Moncure March. And it made Burroughs want to be a writer."

"From the twenties?" David asked. "Perfect! Then it's public domain. Let me take a look at it."

A quick Google search later, and he had the entire poem pulled up on his iPhone. He smiled. "The opening lines sound like a song," he said. "Look!"
He handed me his iPhone, and I read them aloud over what the band was playing:

"Queenie was a blonde, and her age stood still, And she danced twice a day in vaudeville."

He was right!

"Use these lines as a jumping off point for your lyrics," he said. "Go!"

All it took was a little nip and tuck here and there, and pretty soon I had the verses and the choruses down cold. I'll never forget the first time we played "Queenie" all the way through. It felt magical – almost like we'd channeled something. And none of us could stop smiling.

David looked at his watch. "You guys did that in 45 minutes," he deadpanned as only the British know how. "Now that wasn't so painful, was it?"

"The Wild Orgy": While most of our songs are written before we record them, "The Wild Orgy" was written in the studio. I use the word "studio" loosely, since our producer David Barratt actually recorded "The Wild Orgy" on his portable rig in my East Village apartment.

A reprise of the title track from The Wild Party, the song is built on a chorus of moans, gasps and pillow talk that borrows heavily from the "I'll have what she's having" scene in When Harry Met Sally. It was this orgasmic chorus that proved the most difficult to record.

Not on account of the performances – the girls did a stellar job of moaning and groaning – but because the apartment wasn't giving David the room sound that he wanted. After trying several different microphone placements in the bedroom, the kitchen and the living room, we settled on the bathroom – which hasn't been renovated since the thirties, and appears to have been designed for Warwick Davis and his family in Willow.

Given that two of us are six feet tall, I still can't figure out the physics of how we all fit in there to record. I think three of us piled up in the miniature bathtub, while the other two shared the toilet. Between running out of oxygen and the less than sensuous setting, it was tough for us to get in the mood.

But where there's a will, there's a way. Eventually we eked out a perfect take, and David freed us from the confines of my bathroom. So while "The Wild Orgy" may conjure up images of boudoirs and bordellos for the average listener, all it makes me think of is how small my bathroom is!

Today's Day In Rock

Guns N' Roses, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beastie Boys For Rock Hall
(Rock News Desk) Guns N' Roses lead the class of artists who will be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame next year.
The original lineup will receive recognition on their first year of eligibility, 25 years after the release of their debut record.

Axl Rose, Slash, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan and Steven Adler will be inducted alongside the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Beastie Boys, the Small Faces and the Faces, Donovan, Freddie King and late TV producer Don Kirshner. But will the original GNR reunite for the event?

Adam Lambert May Front Queen For Tour
(hennemusic) Queen are in talks with former American Idol singer Adam Lambert about a possible tour.

Lambert sang with Queen at the MTV Europe Awards last month in Ireland, and fans could get more of the pairing in the future, according to drummer Roger Taylor.

"He has grown into a really great performer with an astonishing voice with a range that's great," Taylor told Billboard in Los Angeles while finalizing the tribute band for a Queen Extravaganza tour. "We would like to work with him again. There's nothing signed just yet, but we're talking about live dates. It could be very exciting." more on this story

Metallica and Jason Newsted Reunion Jam
(Gibson) This week, Metallica are hosting a series of concerts to celebrate their 30th anniversary as a band. At Monday night's kick-off show at the Fillmore in San Francisco, they brought out a number of special guests, including former bassist Jason Newsted, according to Rolling Stone.

Frontman James Hetfield announced Newsted as "someone who lived with us, and toured with us and did stuff with us for 14 years." Newsted then played "Harvester of Sorrow" with the band, including his replacement Robert Trujillo. Afterward, Hetfield begged Newsted to stay for another song, and he and the band played "Damage Inc."

Other guests at Monday night's concert included host/comedian Jim Breuer, members of Diamond Head, John Marshall from Metal Church, Apocolyptica and Soul Rebels. more on this story



Nickelback Vs Atlanta Braves Pitcher
Nickelback have engaged in a Twitter way with Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Peter Moylan according to Loudwire.

Loudwire report: Moylan cast the first stone after seeing Foo Fighters live in Melbourne, Australia. Impressed by Foos frontman Dave Grohl, Moylan tweeted — "Note to @nickelback please attend a @foofighters concert. That's how's it should be done Chad."

Nickelback went for the throat with their reply to the Moylan, referencing fellow Braves relief pitcher and 2011 National League Rookie of the Year, Craig Kimbrel – "@PeterMoylan Foos are killer for sure. We're doing just fine, too, thanks. ? for you Pete, is watching Kimbrel better from the bench or on TV? … p.s. happy birthday…" Ouch! Find out what happened next.

Ozzy Translator App Coming
(Gibson) For all those non-Midlands-based Ozzy Osbourne fans who've ever wondered what the Black Sabbath legend is actually saying under that thick "brummie" accent, hope is at hand.

According to Classic Rock magazine, a company in Manchester, England, called Athernet has developed the iBrummie app, which translates the famed Birmingham accent (Ozzy's) into proper Queen's English.

The app will be available for iPhone and Android starting December 19. more on this story



Jimi Hendrix Memorial Park Coming
(Gibson) Guitar great Jimi Hendrix will be honored next year when the Jimi Hendrix Memorial Park opens in his hometown of Seattle.

According to NME.com, the park will cover 2.5 acres and be in the shape of a guitar and feature "lyrical stepping stones, rain drums, a sculpted butterfly garden, performance area, sound garden and a green space" and a fretboard-shaped bridge.

The park has been financed by donations from Jimi's sister Janie Hendrix, the Parks and Green Spaces Opportunity Fund and the Neighborhood Matching Fund Award in Seattle. more on this story



Paul McCartney Jams With a Rolling Stone
(Gibson) Paul McCartney pulled a Rolling Stone on to stage at his show at London's O2 Arena on Monday (December 5).

NME.com reports that Beatle Paul told the crowd he had a "surprise" for them before bringing Ronnie Wood on stage for a snarling version of The Beatles' 1969 track, "Get Back."

McCartney's London concert lasted three hours with the veteran songsmith playing three songs that he had never before played in the U.K., "The Night Before," "The Word" and "Come and Get It." more on this story



Zakk Wylde To Be Roasted By Ozzy, Scott Ian, Corey Taylor and More
Guitar World first ever Rock & Roll Roast will set their claws into Black Label Society frontman and former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde.

The event will take place at The Grove in Anaheim, California on Thursday, January 19th, 2012; a portion of all proceeds will go to the MusiCares charity. Here's the official details:

Roastmaster Sharon Osbourne and other metal-loving luminaries such as Ozzy Osbourne, Chris Jericho, Anthrax's Scott Ian, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Slipknot's Corey Taylor, as well as comedy and roast veterans Jim Norton, Brian Posehn, Jim Florentine and more will all take aim at the Black Label Society frontman and guitar icon, best known for his incredible axe chops, his golden locks and his signature Bullseye guitar line. Fresh from her recent stint on the Judas Priest tour, Lady Starlight (Lady Gaga's resident DJ) will also be on hand to serve as the evening's official DJ. more on this story

Judas Priest Map Out Initial 2012 Dates
(hennemusic) Judas Priest have released the first in a series of European tour dates for 2012.

The spring "Epitaph" shows happen in Poland, Sweden and Austria, with more concerts to be announced.

The European shows follow the previously issued dates on the band's Asian leg, which runs through the month of February. more on this story

Cause of Gwar Guitarist Corey Smoot's Death Determined
The Gwar camp sent out this update on Tuesday about the tragic death of Cory Smoot: The Smoot family and Slave Pit Inc. released a statement regarding the official cause of death of guitarist Cory Smoot. Cory had played the character of Flattus Maximus for over ten years, and was discovered dead on the band's tour bus on Nov. 3rd of this year. He was 34.

Stated North Dakota coroner William Masselo, MD:"We have finalized the autopsy report and death certificate. I have determined that Cory died from a coronary artery thrombosis brought about by his pre-existing coronary artery disease."

The band, which will continue as a four-piece until the current tour schedule is complete, has officially retired the character of Flattus Maximus, and has announced no plans regarding a new GWAR-tarist. more on this story

Soulfly Set New Album Release
Roadrunner have set a March 13, 2012 release date for Soulfly's eighth album, Enslaved. Here is what the label has to say about it:

While many bands barely make it to a third album, the Max Cavalera-led collective is still going strong two decades deep. 2012 also marks the band's 15th anniversary of making a tribally-influenced metallic racket and what better way to celebrate than with a new record?

The album will be released via longtime label Roadrunner Records, which has been Soulfly's home for the course of its career. The label has also been Cavalera's home for the duration of his career, which began in the '80s as a member of Sepultura, who essentially rewrote the rules of heavy music when they arrived on the scene; Max continues to do the same today. more on this story

Chickenfoot UK
(Noble) Chickenfoot will perform two rare concerts in the UK in January in support of their recently released second album 'Chickenfoot III'.

Original Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith has temporarily handed his sticks over to the legendary Kenny Aronoff, who will join the band for the upcoming UK and European concerts in January.

Chickenfoot will perform songs from their gold-selling, eponymous debut album, alongside tracks from 'III', for the very first time in Europe. more on this story

New Andrew Bird Album and Tour Coming
Mom + Pop have set a March 6th release date for Andrew Bird's new album, Break It Yourself.

Produced by Bird, the album was recorded at his barn in Western Illinois near the banks of the Mississippi River. Break It Yourself follows Bird's 2009 full length release Noble Beast.

Bird will celebrate the release of Break It Yourself with a North American tour set to kick off in Texas in mid-March. more on this story

Elvis Found Alive!
MVD continue to keep music conspiracy theory fans happy. They previously informed us that Paul (McCartney) was really dead with a campy mockumentary (they didn't admit it was a mockumentary but involving Heather Mills in Paul's death even before her birth kind of gave that away.. among other things) and now we learn that Elvis was found alive.

MVD will release Highway 61 Entertainment's Elvis Found Alive on DVD in North America on January 24, 2012.

Also a new CD 'Elvis Found Alive' will be released digitally on December 6, and on CD January 10. Film description below: ELVIS has been FOUND, ALIVE! After visiting Graceland, Director Joel Gilbert made a Freedom of Information Act request for US government files on Elvis Presley. Incredibly, documents arrived from the FBI revealing an address for Federal Agent "Jon Burrows," Elvis' 1970's alias, in Simi Valley, California. After a brief confrontation, Elvis agreed to chronicle the secret history of his life and "death" in an exclusive interview. more on this story

Gama Bomb Kick Off Tour With Dark Funeral
Gama Bomb kicked off their first ever tour of Brazil last night in Santa Maria.

Following a recent headlining European tour, Gama Bomb will be joining Dark Funeral and The Accüsed for the week-long Brazilian trek.

The shows will be the last that GAMA BOMB will play in 2011, before taking a break for the holidays and working on their next album. more on this story

Earth's Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light II For Valentine's Day
The second half of Earth's Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light will be released in North America on February 14th on CD, LP and digital download formats.

Recorded in the same two week session as 2011's lauded Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light I by Stuart Hallerman at Avast and mastered by Mell Detmer, Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light II carries on in the freely and folkloric vein of the last release and invokes even more improvisational and unrestrained energy than its predecessor.

Angels Of Darkness, Demons Of Light II is striking in many ways, not least in the wildly improvised nature of this particular recording. The songs "Sigil Of Brass" and "The Corascene Dog" perfectly emphasize how the interplay between the foursome has evolved even further since the first installment. Meanwhile, the track "His Teeth Did Brightly Shine" veers further into an entirely other direction, recalling sounds of the great British Acid Folk generation. This new material brings forth some highly original and deeply mesmerizing tones throughout, at times more hopeful and less dark and death oriented than previous work. Angels Of Darkness, Demons Of Light II is ultimately a completely unanticipated direction for EARTH, and a very welcome one at that. more on this story

Neurosis' Scott Kelly Adds New North American Tour Leg
(Earsplit) Neurosis/Shrinebuilder frontman Scott Kelly has just confirmed another run of American solo acoustic performances to take place this Winter.

Scott Kelly's Western U.S. tour is currently underway alongside Bob Wayne and Jay Munly. Following the tour, Kelly will play a one-off show in Chicago the first week of the year alongside Bruce Lamont, followed by his first tour of Australia and New Zealand as a solo artist this February with direct support from John Baizley (Baroness).

The newly-confirmed tour will take place immediately upon Kelly's return from his stint in Australia and New Zealand, with 22 new dates now confirmed, kicking off in Atlanta on February 15th and running a clockwise swath through the Southeast, Midwest and East Coast into mid-March. For this tour the solo talents of Eugene S. Robinson (Oxbow) will serve as support for Scott Kelly on all dates. more on this story

Epica To Deliver Their Requiem for the Indifferent Next Year
Nuclear Blast Records have set a March 13th North American release date for Epica's new album Requiem for the Indifferent.

The band says, "This title refers to the end of an era. Mankind can no longer stick their head in the sand for the things that are happening around us. We are facing many challenges.

"There is an enormous tension between different religions and cultures, wars, natural disasters and a huge financial crisis, which is getting out of control. More than ever we will need each other to overcome these problems. As we are all connected; the universe, earth, nature, animals and human beings, this period in time will be the prelude to the end for those who still don't want to, or simply won't see it. A Requiem For The Indifferent but also a possibility for a new beginning with great new chances!"

Death Angel React To Anthrax and Testament Tour
Death Angel guitarist Rob Cavestany has issued a statement about the band's upcoming return to road with Anthrax and Testament.

"We are beyond ecstatic that Death Angel has been invited to join our friends Anthrax and Testament once again for the second leg of this tour! More shows, more fun, more THRASH!

"The first leg was amazing and we expect no less on this next run. This line up is the best we've ever been part of as far as touring the States goes. Every band brings their 'A' game each night, no doubt! Plus, we usually do our own headline shows on days off from the main tour, so very much looking forward to performing our long set to our fans across the country as well. What a fantastic way to kick off 2012! We have an extremely busy year planned and it's certain to begin with a BLAST! See you on the road, at the bar and in the pit!" more on this story

Noise Pop Initial Lineup Announced
(Press Here) Independent music festival Noise Pop will be celebrating their twentieth anniversary this February and they have announced this year's initial lineup.

The festival, which will take place throughout San Francisco from February 21st to February 26th, 2012, will play host to the likes of established indie rock mainstays, such as Built to Spill, Archers of Loaf, and Cursive, as well as genre-bending, new favorites, such as Die Antwoord, Grimes, Budos Band, and more.

Some bands are Noise Pop mainstays; others, such as Christie Front Drive, will be playing their first Bay Area show in fifteen years in honor of Noise Pop's twentieth birthday. A list of all confirmed performers thus far can be found below. More confirmations will be announced shortly. more on this story

Cotton Mather's Out Of Print Classic Kontiki To Be Reissued
(FP) Cotton Mather will reissue their long out-of-print landmark power pop album Kontiki on Valentine's Day, 2012. The album was originally released in the US in 1997 with little fanfare.

In the UK, however, Kontiki was a smash with Uncut Magazine giving the album five stars and calling it "music to smile yourself to death to." Mojo said the songs were "brought to life with daring vitality" and in its own five-star review, The Guardian called Kontiki "a bewildering, dizzy thrill."

With the spotlight shining on the album in their homeland, Oasis brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher discovered and fell in love with Kontiki. The Gallaghers started talking about the record in the press themselves, helping to spur on a cult following for the album among musicians all over the globe. A fellow Austin-ite and fan from the beginning, Spoon's Britt Daniel also began to spread the word, and over the years, the adoration of Kontiki continued to grow, leading band leader Robert Harrison to prepare Kontiki (Deluxe Edition). more on this story

Young The Giant Add More Tour Dates
Roadrunner sent over word that Young The Giant have announced additional dates for their 2012 headline tour which now begins in San Francisco on February 9, 2012 and will go through early April.

The band has been taking the world by storm with their explosive live shows, gaining fans in every corner of the world and because of overwhelming demand in several markets, shows are moving to larger venues and in some instances second nights have been added.

Stubbs in Austin sold out in a day, a second show has been added and Terminal 5 in New York sold out in less than five days

Tweeting With the Devil: How the Grammys Launched a Misinformation Campaign in 140 Characters

SUNDAY, 4 DECEMBER 2011

First, the L.A. Times hears it was the Beach Boys instead of Van Halen, then Rolling Stone, then VHND, and now The Hollywood Reporter…

From The Hollywood Reporter:
Tweeting With the Devil: How the Grammys Launched a Misinformation Campaign in 140 Characters (Opinion)
Were Van Halen supposed to appear on Wednesday’s Grammy Awards nominations special or the Beach Boys? Confusion risks tainting music’s biggest night but THR has a solution.
9:03 PM PST 12/3/2011 by Shirley Halperin
It all began with a tweet. On Nov. 3, the official Grammy Awards Twitter, whose handle is @TheGRAMMYs, sent a message to its 208,000 followers which read:
Who do u predict the reuniting band will be @ #GRAMMYnoms? http://grm.my/vH7p3Y Does this hint make u wanna “Jump” & “Dance the Night Away”?
The 140-character missive came hours after a press release was issued by the Recording Academy announcing its annual one-hour nominations special (broadcast on CBS since 2008) and promising “a special live announcement from a truly iconic group regarding their historic band reunion set to take place on the GRAMMY stage on Feb. 12, 2012.”
In due haste, the media began speculating as to who the surprise act could be and it didn’t take long before Van Halen’s name came up with one industry website, Htifix.com, going so far as to put it out there. And it made perfect sense: at that moment — and ever since, really — they were the band with the most reunion buzz. Back together with frontman David Lee Roth, the legendary arena rockers were close to signing a recording contract with a new label (initially rumored to be with Columbia but landing at Interscope) after 40 years at Warner Bros., and releasing their first album together since the monstrous 1984. What better place to reveal a potential release date or a first televised performance than at a Grammys event?
So when the tweet appeared at 5:45pm on Nov. 3 with the most Van Halen-obvious hint imaginable and a link to the Hitfix story, it was all but a fait accompli that guitarist Eddie Van Halen, his bass-playing son Wolfgang, who took over for Michael Anthony in 2006, drummer Alex Van Halen and David Lee Roth would be present at Los Angeles’ Nokia Theater on Nov. 30.
Of course, nothing of the sort actually transpired during the televised special. There was no surprise announcement, nor was there an appearance by an “iconic band.” Instead, the nominations concert offered a few of the Grammys’ signature pairings — Lady Gaga with Sugarland, Usher with Valerie Simpson – along with a performance by country newcomers The Band Perry and a hip hop collective comprised of Grandmaster Flash, LL Cool J, Lupe Fiasco, Common, Melle Mel and Scorpio, who performed Furious Five’s 1982 classic “The Message.”
At a press conference immediately following the broadcast, Recording Academy president Neil Portnow was asked about the Van Halen no-show by Melinda Newman, the Hitfix editor who first wrote about the rumor and a former Billboard bureau chief. His response: “We talked about having something on the show tonight which was gonna be specifically about a reunion and sort of announcing it. What happened is very simple — as you know, in the world of creativity everything is fluid so in the process of discussions that we have been having with an expectation that perhaps we would be at a point tonight where the artist involved and we would be moving forward and actually being ready to announce, they weren’t quite at that point. So given that it’s live television, we move on, we go to the next act, it’s rock-n-roll and so on. That being said, we were genuine about the intention and we were genuine about discussions, so now the time frame moves a little further along and we’ll see what happens on Feb. 12.”
A masterfully evasive commenter, in Portnow’s non-speak, he never addresses Van Halen by name, continuing to perpetuate a rumor that his organization had basically already backed with that initial tweet. But the following morning, a different tale was told as Rolling Stone speculated and the Los Angeles Times reported that the band was never Van Halen, but rather the Beach Boys who have reunited its four surviving members, Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine and Bruce Johnston, for a 50th anniversary tour due to kick off in summer 2012. In a case of fortuitous timing, the band’s last semi-completed effort, Smile, recorded in 1966, was released by Capitol Records on Nov. 1 as The Smile Sessions, with the full backing of all four members.
Indeed, the Beach Boys are a Grammys no-brainer, too, and Wilson has himself appeared at several Recording Academy events over the years. The songwriter and producer was even honored in 2004 as the Musicares Person of the Year, an official Grammy function and fundraiser that helps support musicians in need. So to make a Beach Boys announcement or even feature a performance on the Grammys also makes perfect sense.
According to the LA Times, talks with the Beach Boys fell apart 48 hours before the show, but that doesn’t negate the initial Grammys tweet, which, in essence, acted as a truncated press release that said Van Halen would be there. The sequence of events reinforces, yet again, Twitter’s power and speed of broadcast.
All this secrecy and confusion brings to bear a nagging question: was this a flippant tweet or did the Grammys purposely launch a misinformation campaign to get the media and in turn viewers — among them, scores of Van Halen fans — to tune into their We Are Music nominations special? With ratings up 12%, it certainly worked, but if we’re all going to get used, shouldn’t the Grammys at least buy us breakfast in the morning?
Here’s what we know: nothing. A source within the Van Halen camp tells The Hollywood Reporter that the band were never scheduled to appear on the program and that this is a classic case of “the internet gone crazy.” But the insider was hard-pressed to explain the Grammys tweet, revealing that the band was equally miffed. The Grammys did not respond to THR’s request for further explanation of Portnow’s comments. Newman, who THR also reached out to, declined to comment.
But now that we’ve all published, pontificated and perpetuated, who’s the winner of this pointless exercise? Van Halen, who received untold amounts of publicity during a time when they were negotiating a lucrative new recording contract — and justifiably so since clearly the anticipation for a new Van Halen album, tour and all the accouterments that come with a grand-scale reunion have reached feverish proportions. Who loses? Van Halen’s fans who tuned into a 60-minute kudos fest and the closest they got to witnessing real rock and roll was when the Foo Fighters’ Wasting Light was listed as an Album of the Year contender.
The Beach Boys lose, too, because if they do appear on the Grammys this year, their name and Van Halen’s will inevitably live side-by-side in subsequent press reports, taking away from the impact of the announcement.
And the Recording Academy doesn’t emerge from the hoopla unscathed, either. With the understanding that the organization has an awards show to promote and a buzz to build, should that come at the expense of honesty? If Academy executives knew that Van Halen was never in discussions to appear, isn’t it now time they reveal the truth in some capacity and put an end to the message board madness? Or simply be straight with someone? Anyone?
Maybe marketing executive Steve Stoute had the right idea when he took the Grammys to task last year, spending $40,000 to place a full-page open letter in the New York Times. His gripe: that the Grammys were out-of-touch with popular music and used the names of superstar artists like Justin Bieber and Eminem (the former lost Best New Artist to Esperanza Spalding, the latter lost Album of the Year to Arcade Fire) to lure viewers to their broadcast and ultimately leave them disappointed. Sound familiar?
But all hope is not lost where the various players are concerned, we have a solution: “California Girls” as performed by the unlikely pairing of, yes, Van Halen and the Beach Boys, lest we forget that David Lee Roth scored a massive solo career hit with the Beach Boys’ 1965 hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 with his 1985 version

MÖTLEY CRÜE IN SIN CITY - THE WORLD'S MOST NOTORIOUS BAND LAUNCHES LAS VEGAS' FIRST-EVER HARD ROCK RESIDENCY:

Three decades after beginning its iconic journey of debauchery and decadence, Mötley Crüe has announced plans to invade Las Vegas with the city's first-ever hard rock residency: Mötley Crüe In Sin City. The world's most notorious band will he heading to the world's most notorious city where they will perform an extended run--starting February 3 through 19--at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Tickets go on sale tomorrow, Saturday, December 3 at www.motley.com, www.thejointlasvegas.com, www.ticketmaster.com and the venue box office. VIP seating and packages will also be available. The shows are produced by AEG Live.
2012's Mötley Crüe In Sin City show is sure to leave the loud impression that what happens in Vegas will be heard around the world. Vocalist Vince Neil, guitarist Mick Mars, bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee have big plans for Mötley Crüe In Sin City to create a never-been-done before and incredibly interactive Vegas experience. Exact details about the show­expected to supersede the band's high standard of production­are being kept under wraps for now to keep an element of surprise for fans. The engagement falls during a holiday-packed time in the calendar year: Super Bowl Sunday, Valentine's Day and President's Day. Last night the band officially announced the news on CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight.”
“It is a dream come true for me especially living in and loving Las Vegas,” says singer Vince Neil. “I am thrilled that a guy like Piers Morgan would help kick it off!" Adds drummer Tommy Lee, “I don't know about you, but when I think of Mötley Crüe I think of filthy sex, drugs, a REALLY big show and way too much fun... sounds like Las Vegas doesn't it? A match made in heaven!!!”
“We are very excited to announce our upcoming partnership with legendary rockers Mötley Crüe,” said Paul Davis, vice president of entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “The one-of-a-kind production will be the most unique, interactive, fan-driven concert experience the band has ever created. Mötley Crüe is a perfect fit for the Hard Rock and we can't wait for this unforgettable residency to begin!”
Adds Bobby Reynolds, Vice President of Booking for AEG Live Las Vegas, “We're thrilled that Mötley Crüe is creating their most notorious show ever and bringing it to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in notorious Las Vegas. This concert experience is going to represent what the fans love most about Mötley Crüe, the Hard Rock and Las Vegas: good times, rock n' roll and a stage show like no one has ever seen before!”
Tickets, starting at $45 (plus applicable service fees) will be available Saturday at 10am at the Hard Rock Box Office, www.motley.com, www.thejointlasvegas.com, or www.ticketmaster.com. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is also offering ticket and room bundles via www.hardrockhotel.com.
For more information, please visit: www.motley.com.

Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


Adele Biggest Seller Of the Century
(popmusiclife) The Official Charts Company reports Adele's "21" has become the UK's biggest-selling album of the 21st Century in just over 10 months.
"21" bumps Amy Winehouse's second album, 2006's "Back To Black," out of top spot, after the late singer took the title herself back in August.

To date, "21" has sold 3.4 million copies in the UK, compared to 3.3 million of "Back To Black." more on this story

Lady Gaga Explains Marry The Night Video
(popmusiclife) Lady Gaga recently sat down for an interview with video site Vevo. The pop icon discussed the making of her epic video for "Marry The Night," which clocks in at just under 14 minutes.

"The video is autobiographical," says Gaga, "so it's a completely true story that's been filtered through the lens of my artistry. Something I believe we all have inside of us is the ability to look back on memories and fill in all the ugly holes and make it beautiful again."

It was Gaga's vision that created the video, while she also doubled as director on the project. Check out the video interview and the video here.

LAPD Want To Question Johnny Depp
(TMZ) The LAPD has some questions for Johnny Depp -- and now, they're trying to track the actor down for an interview .... after his bodyguards allegedly beat up a disabled woman last week.

TMZ broke the story ... 52-year-old Robyn Ecker filed a police report after the Iggy Pop show in L.A. Thursday night -- claiming she was minding her own business when she accidentally danced too close to Depp's table ... and his bodyguards tackled her.

Robyn claims she was seriously injured during the alleged attack -- and even went to the hospital to get herself checked out.

Law enforcement sources tell us, the LAPD would like to speak to Johnny and his bodyguards about the police report -- and are currently making attempts to interview all of them. more on this story

John Rich Too Drunk To Fly?
(TMZ) Country singer John Rich was 86'd from a Southwest airplane on Sunday ... after crew members determined he was too inebriated to make the trip from Vegas to Nashville ... TMZ has learned.

Sources on the flight tell us ... the "Big & Rich" singer appeared drunk as he was boarding the flight, which was scheduled to depart at 10:50 AM. Hey, it's Vegas ...

We're told Rich got into a verbal argument with a couple of passengers BEFORE boarding the plane ... and continued to display drunken behavior once he was allowed inside the main cabin.

Crew members approached Rich, determined they could not permit him to stay on the flight, and asked him to get off the plane. We're told the singer was cooperative and calm as he exited the aircraft.

A rep for Southwest confirmed a passenger was kicked off the flight, but would not release the person's name.

The rep tells us, "Our crew assessed the situation and determined that the passenger was not fit for travel under governing federal aviation regulations."

The statement continues, "The customer was rebooked on a later Southwest flight out of Las Vegas, but chose to make alternative travel arrangements. We have processed a refund for the customer and his travel companion." more on this story

Justin Bieber Appears On The X Factor
(popmusiclife) Justin Bieber continues to be everywhere these days, as he works hard to promote his "Under The Mistletoe" holiday album.

On Sunday, Bieber appeared on the UK version of X Factor, singing "Mistletoe," the first single from the new collection.

During the pre-taped performance, Justin took time to flirt with judges Kelly Rowland and Cheryl Cole while singing directly to each of them at center stage. Justin jokingly apologized after the song, calling his flirting "just a habit." watch it here.

Scotty McCreery Debut Goes Gold
American Idol Scotty McCreery's debut album, Clear As Day, has been certified gold for sales of more than 500,000.

The album currently sits at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, a spot it has held for an impressive five weeks since its Oct. 4 release.

"It's huge!" Scotty says of his first gold album. "Every artist dreams of a gold album and works hard for it, so it's a major accomplishment to have your debut album go gold. This is just incredible. more on this story

Shelby Lynne To Unplug for Letterman Tonight
(Sub) Shelby Lynne has been eliciting rave reviews on her cross-country tour for her solo acoustic performances.

Now she'll bring that intimacy to "Late Show with David Letterman," tonight, December 6th, performing the title track of her new album, Revelation Road, solo, accompanied simply her own acoustic guitar.

Last week on "Tavis Smiley," she spoke about the highly personal journey the album has taken her on. Fans can check out the interview here.

X-Factor Contestant Denounces Death Threats
(TMZ) "X-Factor" cast-off Drew Ryniewicz is lashing back after some deranged fans threatened to kill Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger last week -- telling TMZ, she has no hard feelings against the judges for dumping her ... and her fans shouldn't either.

As we previously reported, Paula and Nicole received an avalanche of death threats on Facebook and Twitter after they agreed to vote the 14-year-old off Thursday night.

Among the threats ... "F**K you paula you dumb c**t you voted off the most talented person on your f**king show. i hope you die you DUMB B***H."

The judges were shocked by the firestorm of hatred -- and Drew tells us, she was too ... "That's not what I represent and that's not what I want my fans to represent."

Drew adds, "No one deserves death threats." more on this story

Kate Major Wasn't Really Missing After All
(TMZ) Call off the search party ... Kate Major has been found -- and it turns out ... she was never really missing in the first place.

As TMZ first reported ... Major was taken from rehab to a nearby hospital in Florida Saturday night, after suffering a seizure -- but when the rehab facility called to check on her hours later ... the hospital had no record of her.

Kate's rep and family were completely freaked -- but it was a false alarm ... because Major was in the hospital after all ... just under a false name for privacy reasons.

Major's rep tells us ... word got back to Kate that she was considered MIA, so she called her father and told him everything was fine. Mystery solved. more on this story

Jo Dee Messina Plans New Song, TV Appearances and Christmas Show
Jo Dee Messina will be releasing a new single early next year but you can catch her all over TV before then and playing a special show in Nashville for Christmas.

She will be featured in an upcoming episode of HGTV's "Celebrity Holiday Homes" airing Sunday, December 18 at 8pm ET/PT. Also featured on the episode are actors Wayne Brady and Alison Sweeney. Designer Matthew Haly transformed Messina's Nashville home with embellished natural materials, such as wood, tree branches and berries.

"It was amazing to have HGTV come in the house to decorate," Messina explains. "I guess living in my home and seeing it everyday, I overlook decorating possibilities. I was blown away by what they came and did to the house. It was just, so beautiful." more on this story

Charlie Sheen To Save His Kids Following Brooke's Drug Bust?
(TMZ) Charlie Sheen has returned from Colombia -- and TMZ has learned, he's now on a mission to save his kids ... after mommy Brooke Mueller was arrested for cocaine possession last week.

Sources close to the couple tell TMZ, Brooke had custody of the 2-year-old twins the night of her arrest -- leaving them in the care of a nanny while she went out clubbing.

Brooke and the kids are currently on their way back from Aspen now -- but we're told, Charlie plans to take care of them as soon as they're home ... and Brooke's parents will help.

According to sources, Brooke's going to take some time for herself while she tries to "get better."

Brooke has struggled with substance abuse issues for years -- and most recently sought addiction help at an alternative treatment facility in Mexico. more on this story

Bombay Bicycle Club To Start Tour On Valentine's Day
Bombay Bicycle Club will kick off a North American headlining tour on Valentine's Day 2012.

Kicking off in San Diego on February 14th, the cross country run will wrap on March 10th in Philadelphia and includes gigs in New York City and Chicago.

Bombay Bicycle Club's new album, A Different Kind of Fix, is set for physical release in the U.S. on January 17th, 2012 via A&M/Octone. more on this story

David Guetta Scores A First At Grauman's Chinese Theatre
EMI announced that David Guetta became the first DJ and music artist to be handprinted at the legendary Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood over the weekend.

To celebrate Guetta's status as the world's best-selling DJ of all time, the Chinese Theatres selected the French-born Guetta as the inaugural artist in its musicians-only handprint series "Handprints Homage."

Guetta attended the ceremony, which took place inside the newly opened Grauman's Ballroom, and performed a jubilant set at the space on December 3rd. more on this story

Big Head Todd and The Monsters Launching Club Tour
Big Head Todd and The Monsters plan to kick off 2012 with almost three months worth of club appearances including some special full album shows.

The band begins the winter club tour – their first in over three years – at Atlanta's Variety Playhouse. For the show the band will play a very special first set featuring their breakout album, Midnight Radio, performed live in its entirety.

Only a handful of select markets on the winter tour will offer this special performance - which debuted last summer at the band's sold-out show at Colorado's Red Rocks Amphitheatre – including New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; Austin TX and others. more on this story

Hot Chelle Rae North American Tour
Hot Chelle Rae plan to kick off their new year with a North American headlining tour with support from Electric Touch.

The group are hot off their win as "Favorite New Artist" at the American Music Awards and the release of their brand new album Whatever.

The 33 + date headlining tour will kick off February 10th in Metarie, LA and wrapping May 5th in Atlanta, GA. more on this story

Battle for Michael Jackson's Hand and Footprints
(TMZ) Michael Jackson's family is on the hunt for an incredibly valuable piece of rock -- containing the King of Pop's hand and footprints -- but the guy who currently owns it ain't giving it up without a fight.

MJ left the impressions back in 1984 for a Vegas hotel -- which had commissioned the piece for a "Walk of Fame"-type exhibit in front of the property.

The exhibit never materialized, and the concrete slab ended up gathering dust in the hotel basement -- until it was auctioned off years later ... and a guy named Andy Wilson picked it up for a pretty penny.

Now, the Jackson family has caught wind of the relic -- and they want to reclaim it, insisting the slab is the rightful property of the MJ estate. We're told they're even willing to pay Mr. Wilson $25,000 plus a cut of any merchandising profits they make off the item.

But Andy ain't budging -- telling TMZ, $25,000 just won't do ... and he's willing to wait as long as it takes to get a better deal. more on this story

Jay and Silent Bob Special One Night Only Nationwide Event
Kevin Smith: Live From Behind Featuring "Jay and Silent Bob Get Old" will hit 300+ movie theaters nationwide as a one-night-only event on Thursday, February 2 at 9:30 p.m. ET / 8:30 p.m. CT / 7:30 p.m. MT / 6:30 p.m. PT / 9:30 p.m. Alaska & Hawaii.

This special three-hour event will begin with Smith and frequent co-star and long-time friend, Jason "Jay" Mewes, hosting their highly rated podcast, "Jay and Silent Bob Get Old." Smith will then tackle a wide variety of topics and issues during a live, fan-generated Q&A with theater audiences across the country (fans will have the opportunity to submit questions and interact live via social media networks).

Tickets for Kevin Smith: Live From Behind Featuring "Jay and Silent Bob Get Old" are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change). more on this story

Michael Lohan To Have Heart Surgery
(TMZ) Michael Lohan's life is in the hands of doctors ... who are performing surgery on Mike's heart in an effort to unclog an important artery ... this according to Lohan's rep.

TMZ broke the story ... Lohan had trouble breathing and speaking a couple of weeks ago ... and docs believe the trouble stemmed from Mike's ticker.

Now, the rep tells us ... Lohan is currently undergoing a procedure to "repair a blockage."

Once Lohan is stable, the rep says Mike will return to his court-ordered treatment center -- where he will continue to participate in a domestic violence intervention program.

Today's Day In Rock

Metallica Want Ozzy and Motorhead's Lemmy For 30th Anniversary
Metallica kicked off their week long 30th anniversary celebration last night with the first intimate club show at the Fillmore in San Francisco and they may have some very special guests for upcoming shows if frontman James Hetfield gets his way.
The other three shows will take place on December 7, December 9, and December 10, with special guests and events, rare songs, varied set lists and more, according to Blabbermouth who also report that Hetfield said in a interview that he hoped Ozzy Osbourne and Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister would be among the guests at the shows.

James Hetfield reportedly also said of the shows, "It is a fan celebration — everyone who's come along the Metallica ride for 30 years — and we're constantly wanting to give to the fans what they don't normally get from some other band or some other connection," he said. "So these four shows at the Fillmore are something like that."

Red Hot Chili Peppers Announce More Tour Dates
Red Hot Chili Peppers have announced more dates for their previously announced North American leg of their I'm With You World tour.

The 2012 arena tour is the band's first full-scale tour of the U.S. since 2007 when they hit the road in support of 2006's Stadium Arcadium.

Red Hot Chili Peppers are touring in support of I'm With You, which debuted at No. 2 on Billboard's Top 200 Albums chart and No. 1 on Billboard's Rock and Alternative album charts, as well as on the Top Internet Albums and iTunes Top Alternative Albums chart. more on this story

Alice in Chains Hope For New Album Next Year
(hennemusic) Alice in Chains are moving forward with work on a new album, but are keeping their options open in terms of the timeline for the project with guitarist Jerry Cantrell hoping to release the effort next year.

"Whenever we're done," Jerry Cantrell said during an ESPN chat. "Schedules in music, I know people have done it and say you need an album out by this date and you're talking about album tour, it can burn you out quickly. It did with our band. We've been fortunate to be partnered up with companies that respect the process. We're never really forced to make music. If it doesn't happen, then it doesn't.

"We've been writing a lot. I also had shoulder surgery earlier this year. I'm at the tail end of rehabbing that. That put us back a little bit. But we have some stuff. We'll do some writing. Hopefully we'll have it out next year. We'll put it out when we feel that it's worth putting out." more on this story

Ministry Reunite For New Album
(Gibson) It was one of the shortest break-ups in music history: Ministry will return with a new album titled Relapse on March 3 via 13th Planet Records, and fans can follow the sessions via a series of candid behind-the-scenes videos.

The videos, viewable at the 13th Planet Records YouTube channel, give fans a sneak peek into everything from band meetings to recording sessions, where very important matters are discussed such as the right way to play a fast riff and how much Ministry founder Al Jourgensen likes cargo pants.

Ministry's current live line-up includes longtime Ministry guitarist and Rigor Mortis alumni Mike Scaccia, Prong's Tommy Victor and Aaron Rossi, Soulfly bassist Tony Campos and Fear Factory keyboardist John Bechdel, in addition to Jourgensen. more on this story



Guns N' Roses Cancel Another Show
(hennemusic) Guns N' Roses canceled their concert Monday night at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven, Mississippi.

At statement read: "Due to production issues, the DeSoto Civic Center is unable to host the scheduled concert for GUNS N' ROSES set to take place on Monday, December 5, 2011. We apologize for any inconvenience to ticket purchasers."

This marks the second recent GNR show to be canceled due to "production issues"; the band's November 23 gig in Albany was also shut down close to the day of the event. An explanation of those issues here.

The Happy Mondays Plan Reunion
(Gibson) First the Stone Roses, and now Factory Records legends, The Happy Mondays, are planning a reunion for next year.

According to the Sun newspaper Shaun Ryder, founder of The Happy Mondays back in the '80s has got the band back for a documentary movie. The newspaper quotes a source as saying, ""Shaun and his brother Paul have a notoriously patchy relationship but they're willing to sort things out for the sake of the band.

"The Mondays have had offers from film companies, including Film4 and Sky, who want to follow them for the reunion. There will be gigs next summer and a re-release of their classic album Pills 'n' Thrills and Bellyaches. A DVD will also be released of the comeback shows and the documentary." more on this story



Mitch Ryder Announces First Album In 30 Years
Mitch Ryder will release, The Promise, his first new album in 30 years, on February 13, 2012. We were sent the following details:

Before Jack White, Ted Nugent, Bob Seger or Iggy Pop, Detroit's number one rock export was Mitch Ryder. Fronting the Detroit Wheels, Ryder spun out a string of rock 'n' soul hits — "Jenny Take a Ride," "Devil With a Blue Dress On / Good Golly Miss Molly" and "Sock It to Me, Baby" — in the mid-'60s that landed in the charts alongside the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

Ryder's new album, The Promise (his first U.S. release in nearly 30 years), due out February 13, 2012 on his own Michigan Broadcasting Corporation label, finds him in prime form. The disc's dozen tracks feature eleven full-bodied originals plus a live cover for the Motown classic "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted." Ryder teamed up with acclaimed producer Don Was (a fellow Detroit native) to create a record that's full of soul yet grounded in rock: music that acknowledges the past while looking forward. Ryder says he writes all of his songs from personal experiences. "When I am in the writing mode, I don't listen to other music. I just shut down and draw on what my mind and my soul tell me to do." more on this story

Anthrax and Testament Team Up For New Tour Leg
Anthrax and Testament will once again team up in the New Year for another North American leg of their co-headlining tour.

The dozen-plus dates that come on the heels of the bands' five-week Fall trek that packed venues from Philadelphia to Los Angeles, will kick off in Las Vegas on Sunday, January 22 and will take in some fifteen cities over a three-week period. Anthrax will close all shows and Death Angel will again be main support on all dates.

"The first leg of the tour with Testament and Death Angel was an amazing way to end a great year for Anthrax," said Anthrax's Scott Ian, "and it went above and beyond my expectations! Sold out shows, raging crowds and EPIC war dances! So we figured what better way to start 2012 than to continue this thrash-fest into the new year!!! Thank you all for giving us this privilege to come and play for you. See you soon!" more on this story

The Darkness Plan American Invasion
The Darkness have announced plans for their North American invasion following their reunion across the pond earlier this year.

The Darkness reunited for at the Download Festival in June and has made stops in Sweden, Spain, Japan and Italy culminating this week with 14 sold-out U.K. shows.

From Lowestoft, Suffolk, frontman/guitarist Justin Hawkins says, "We literally cannot wait to hit back in the U.S. and Canada. We loved it last time and we're sure to love it again. See you there!" more on this story

Kill Devil Hill Streaming First New Album Song Online
We've told you about the metal supergroup Kill Devil Hill and now you can finally hear them!

Revolver Magazine is streaming of "Time and Time Again," the first track from Kill Devil Hill's self-titled debut album here.

Kill Devil Hill is the new project featuring acclaimed drummer Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell, Dio) and bassist Rex Brown, (Pantera, Down) guitar slinger Mark Zavon and lead vocalist Dewey Bragg. more on this story

Ben Kweller To Release New Album On His Own Label
Ben Kweller will launch his own label, The Noise Company, with the February 7, 2012 release of his new album, Go Fly A Kite.

We were sent these details: The Noise Company has signed on with the Alternative Distribution Alliance (ADA) to distribute all of its releases.

JT Signed to Mercury Records when he was 15, and then ATO when he was 20, Kweller, now 30, is interested in being in a situation in which he has complete control. Kiko Velez, Head of A&R at The Noise Company says, "Ben has released successful records with a variety of inspiring partners and has gained a great deal of wisdom and experience." Velez continues, "That experience combined with a large and loyal fanbase, puts him in an ideal position to take advantage of the unique landscape of today's music industry." more on this story

Matt Sorum Explains Problem With Guns N' Roses Rock Hall Reunion
(hennemusic) More Guns N' Roses reunion talk has surfaced courtesy of drummer Matt Sorum. The band's status for the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame will be known within a few weeks, when the 2012 inductees are announced.

The nomination, in the group's first year of eligibility, has raised all kinds of talk about what could happen if GNR are to be inducted, including a full-scale reunion of the original lineup.

"You never know," Sorum tells Sydney's Triple M radio. "Usually the way it works with Guns N' Roses is that it's gotta be about Slash and Axl first, which has been a little bit of a problem. Duff played with Axl and actually Duff (and his band Loaded) was gonna go out on tour with Axl."

As for Matt, the drummer says, "I haven't seen Axl for about six years." more on this story

Former Black Sabbath Vocalist Releasing New Project
(Gibson) Former Black Sabbath vocalist Tony Martin has teamed up with Italian guitarist and producer Dario Mollo for The Third Cage, an album of melodic metal to be released in January 2012.

The pair had previously worked together on the first The Cage album, for which Mollo (who bares an uncanny physical resemblance to Eric Clapton in about 1972) had already recorded the tracks. Martin came in and worked his lyrical and vocal magic on the completed songs. Another collaboration was released in 2002. The new album was recorded in Mollo's new studio, equipped with a green screen room for video shooting.

This writer has had a preview of The Third Cage and can report that it's melodic and heavy, and that the audio quality and guitar tones are outstanding. Martin and Mollo say the songwriting, the sound and the video production of this new project are all interwoven, and fans will be able to hear - and see - the results when the album is released in North America on January 20, and Europe on January 24 via Frontiers Records under the name Mollo/Martin. more on this story



Sixx:A.M. Unplugged
(Banana 101.5) Sixx:A.M. have been teasing an upcoming release called '7′ with a teaser video of a piano driven take on 'This Is Gonna Hurt.' Fans' suspicions were confirmed when they officially announced the seven-track EP '7′ that will feature stripped down versions of the band's tunes.

The band not only let the cat out of the bag over the weekend, but also decided to stream all seven tracks ahead of it's December 13th release. Speaking to Noisecreep about the project, vocalist/guitarist James Michael said:

"I've always loved the concept of taking a song that is already successful and familiar with listeners, and doing something different with it to change its focus." More including a preview

Ringo Recruits Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Dave Stewart, Joe Walsh for New Album
Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Dave Stewart, Joe Walsh, Don Was, Edgar Winter are just some of the special guests on Ringo Starr's new album which will hit stores in North American on January 31, 2012 and the rest of the world the previous day.

Titled simply "Ringo 2012" and produced by Ringo, it was recorded in LA and mixed in England by Ringo and Bruce Sugar, and features 9 songs. Of the 9 tracks two are covers, "Think It Over," and "Rock Island Line" and two are new versions of his own songs, "Wings" and "Step Lightly."

Joining Ringo in the studio for Ringo 2012 were musicians (in alphabetical order): Michael Bradford, Ann Marie Calhoun, Matt Cartsonis, Steve Dudas, Charlie Haden, Amy Keys, Kelly Moneymaker, Richard Page, Van Dyke parks, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Dave Stewart, Bruce Sugar, Benmont Tench, Joe Walsh , Don Was, Edgar Winter. more on this story

New Lamb Of God Song Now Online
Lamb Of God have released their new song 'Ghost Walking,' the first single unveiled from their forthcoming album, Resolution, in stores January 24th, 2012.

The song began airing yesterday on commercial and satellite stations as well as online at Metalsucks.net.

The official 'Ghost Walking' video will begin airing on VEVO and all other video outlets today. Check out the song

Rolling Stones, Heroin and Some Girls
(hennemusic) While there are certainly more well-publicized drug issues in the Rolling Stones' family, drummer Charlie Watts spoke with BBC 6 about his challenges during the making of "Some Girls."

"I was lucky that I never got that hooked on it, but I went through a period of taking heroin," said Watts. "I used to get off it whenever I went home. The thing with my marriage still had to go a bit wobbly and my wife noticed I wasn't the same."

Charlie recalled one particular incident from the 1978 sessions. "I fell asleep on the floor during [the recording of] Some Girls and Keith woke me up and said, 'You should do this when you're older'. Keith telling me this! But it stuck and I just stopped...along with everything else." More including audio of the interview.

Geddy Lee Explains Rush Time Machine Inspiration
(hennemusic) Rush continue to do interviews to promote their recently-released CD/DVD set "Time Machine 2011: Live in Cleveland."

The project captured the band live in the Ohio city that first showed radio support to the group. Bassist Geddy Lee spoke with Billboard about what moved Rush to perform their 1981 classic, "Moving Pictures," in its entirety on the tour.

"We thought that was the perfect time, and the perfect album to do that with," says Geddy. "Because I guess it would be considered our quintessential album, and it was the 30th anniversary of that album being released. It also gave us the opportunity to play an 11-minute song on that album called 'The Camera Eye,' which we had never really embraced as a live song." Can fans expect more classic album shows?

Chris Cornell To Rock Leno
(hennemusic) Chris Cornell is coming to a TV screen near you. While touring to promote his new "Songbook" album, the Soundgarden frontman has made several TV appearances, and he's added another one to the list.

Cornell will perform on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Friday, December 16.

The program airs at 11:35 PM EST; the musical guest traditionally appears in the last 10 minutes of the show…around 12:25 AM EST. more on this story

Gibson Announce Pro Audio Division
(Gibson) Gibson Guitar has moved heavily into pro audio with the creation of the Gibson Pro Audio division. The division will offer professional grade equipment, including loudspeakers, headphones, monitors, DJ gear, mixers, accessories and more.

Gibson has created the Gibson Pro Audio division by acquiring the esteemed Stanton Group, which includes some of the most respected audio manufacturers in the business – Cerwin Vega!, KRK Systems and Stanton DJ. Cerwin Vega! was responsible for the world's first solid-state amplifier in 1957. KRK Systems began in 1986 as a high-end monitor manufacturer. Stanton DJ was originally founded at Stanton Magnetics in 1946 by Walter O. Stanton, the inventor of the easily replaceable phonograph stylus, and grew into an industry leader in DJ audio equipment.

Henry Juszkiewicz, Chairman and CEO of Gibson Guitar, said, "This new division is perfectly aligned with our core. It expands our reach to fellow music lovers and allows us access to 20 in 20 consumers instead of the one in 20 we currently hit. Stanton produces some of the best pro audio equipment in the world and we're incredibly excited to be working with the very talented team at Stanton as we take Gibson into the future." more on this story



Primal Fear Release New Video
Primal Fear have set a January 24th North American release date for their new album "Unbreakable".

Fans can get their first taste of the effort now as the band shot a video in Nurnberg, Germany for the song "Bad Guys Wear Black".

The video has premiered on Frontiers' Records official YouTube Channel. You can watch it here.

Los Campesinos! Winter Tour
Los Campesinos! will kick off 2012 with an extensive North American tour that begins in mid January.

The band, which recently released its fourth album entitled Hello Sadness via Arts & Crafts, kicked off the album release by playing four very special, U.S shows in November.

This time around, they're making sure to hit a wider array of cities to bring their fans these new songs in the flesh. more on this story

White Arrows Announce Dates With Naked and Famous
White Arrows will once again team up with Naked and Famous for a handful of dates this month.

White Arrows and Naked and Famous spent a lot of time together on the road this fall for a North American tour and have now announced plans to play some California dates together.

White Arrows have also announced other dates this month include a KROQ sponsored show in Los Angeles. more on this story

You Me At Six Teaming Up With The Swellers For Tour
You Me At Six will start the New Year with a North American co-headlining tour with The Swellers.

You Me At Six will be touring to support the upcoming U.S. release of their album SINNERS NEVER SLEEP, on Virgin Records in stores January 24th.

The 17-date run begins in Cleveland Heights, OH on January 24th at the Grog Shop, and will close on February 14th in Los Angeles, CA at the Troubadour. The coast-to-coast run will be making stops in Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles. more on this story

Joey Stuckey Honored By His Hometown
(Glass Onyon) Truly one of the hardest working people in the music industry, 2011 has been a landmark year for blind recording artist, engineer, producer and inspirational speaker Joey Stuckey.

With the release of his latest acclaimed CD 'The Shadow Sound' in February of this year, Stuckey has been hitting the road performing and speaking all over the country – October alone saw Stuckey in Hawaii, Los Angeles and Nashville.

However, October was a landmark month because Joey was honored by a non-profit organization in his hometown of Macon, Georgia where he serves as the official music ambassador. The organization "New Town Macon", a non-profit tasked with revitalizing the downtown area of Macon, presented Joey with a special recognition award for his contribution to his community. Joey has been instrumental in shaping Macon's musical landscape. Stuckey was also recognized for his active role in preparing for Macon's future. more on this story

Anniversary of Roy Orbison's Death
(Gibson) On this day in 1988, rock and roll legend Roy Orbison died of a heart attack at age 52. Gibson takes a look back: A few days before his death on this day in 1988, Roy Orbison was asked in an interview about his legacy. And his answer was simple: "I just like to be remembered…" In fact, he has been. More than 20 years after his death, Orbison still is one of the icons of his generation, among superstars like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis.

Some people will remember him for "Oh, Pretty Woman," the song that made history and was part of one of the most recognized soundtracks ever (Pretty Woman with Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, 1990). Even some rock fans will associate that song with Van Halen's version that became their second Top 20 pop hit in 1982. Later, Orbison cited that version as one of his favorites.

But his legacy goes beyond that one hit. Roy Orbison wrote "Oh, Pretty Woman" in 1964, and it was his sixth smash song in the early '60s. Orbison's first hit was "Only the Lonely," which reached #2 in 1960. Later, he got a series of hits that included "Running Scared" (#31, 1961), "Crying" (#2, 1961), "Dream Baby" (#4, 1962) and "In Dreams" (#7, 1963). He was successful not only in the U.S. but in England, where he toured with The Beatles. more on this story



Singled Out: Rebelution's Sky Is The Limit
Today Rebelution tells us about their new single "Sky Is The Limit" from their forthcoming new album "Peace of Mind". Here is the story:

This song was written to remind ourselves of the journey we took to get here. We have a connection with our listeners who continue to inspire and encourage us to play.

Most people have positive things to say about our music and lyrics but in the case we encounter a negative comment we have "Sky is the Limit" to help us push through.

In a way, the song was written so that we could perform it and have this feeling of invincibility; to send a message to all the haters out there that we're going to continue to make the music we love.

Tommy Lee sued by: chauffeur, guide, butler, valet, cook, nanny & bodyguard?

Tommy Lee Described as a Chintzy Boss
By MARIMER MATOS


LOS ANGELES (CN) - A former assistant claims rocker Tommy Lee stiffed him for overtime, illegally docked his pay, refused to reimburse him for business expenses, charged him rent on a place he didn't live, and defamed him in the music business, costing him jobs with other rock bands.

Michael Anthony Sullivan sued Tommy Lee and Mayhem Touring in Superior Court.

Lee, a drummer, in 1981 was a founder of the glam metal band Motley Crue, which has sold more than 80 million albums. He also is a founding member of the rap-metal band Methods of Mayhem and an electronic music DJ.

Sullivan says he began working as Lee's assistant in 2005, fulfilling a welter of roles, including "procurer, Man Friday, chauffeur, guide, bookkeeper, attendant, door-keeper, agent, butler, valet, attendant, cook, runner, shopper, nanny, bodyguard, maid, nurse and nursemaid."

Sullivan says he was on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"Lee found Sullivan so useful that he required him to stay at his residence so that he was always available for service," the complaint states. "However, after requiring Sullivan to stay at the home and obtaining the benefits of Sullivan's presence in his home, in 2009, Lee began deducting $1,000 from his wages every month for 'rent.' Lee continued to deduct the $1,000 'rent' payments from Sullivan's wages during the six months prior to Sullivan's termination, even though Sullivan no longer lived in Lee's home."

After describing the range of chores he performed, including "babysitting for Lee's two children and tending to the needs of Lee's elderly, infirm mother," the complaint continues: "In general, while acting as Lee's assistant at home, Sullivan estimates that he regularly worked more than eight hours per day. Furthermore, although Sullivan was frequently required to make purchases for Lee and his family members with his own funds, on many occasions, Lee failed to reimburse Sullivan for these work-related expenses. Instead, Lee regularly and improperly deducted wages from Sullivan's paychecks for work-related expenses. For example, in addition to improperly deducting rent payments from Sullivan's paychecks after he no longer lived in Lee's residence, Lee regularly and improperly deducted wages for cell phone charges that were associated with work-related phone calls Sullivan had made on Lee's behalf. Lee also improperly deducted wages from Sullivan's paycheck to cover the insurance deductible for an accident that Sullivan had been involved in while taking Lee's car to a mechanic to repair its faulty brakes."

Sullivan says Lee and Mayhem Touring paid him the same weekly salary regardless of how much he worked, which at times exceeded 100 hours.

"Indeed, rather than properly compensating Sullivan in accordance with the applicable labor laws, defendant Lee docked Sullivan's wages for various reasons. For instance, defendant Lee often docked Sullivan's wages when he chose to work remotely from a location other than Lee's home, when Lee was out of town. If Sullivan happened to be late to work, Lee would dock plaintiff's wages. Indeed, if Lee was upset with Sullivan for any reason, he would often find a reason to dock his pay. Lee's practice of docking plaintiff's wages confirms that the parties understood that plaintiff was a non-exempt employee," according to the complaint.

"In addition to failing to compensate Sullivan for all hours worked at overtime wage rates, Lee also failed to provide Sullivan with a paid ten-minute rest period for every four hours worked. Furthermore, there existed no policy allowing Sullivan to take a 30-minute unpaid meal period for every five hours worked. In fact, often when Lee's schedule was particularly busy, Sullivan was forced to eat on the run if he was able to eat at all.

"Sullivan's employment with defendants ended on or about March 31, 2011. After the termination of his employment, Sullivan has learned that defendant Lee has been and is currently engaged in a campaign of disparagement against him and that Lee has defamed Sullivan to various individuals in the music industry in which they both work. Lee's disparagement of Sullivan began shortly after the termination of Sullivan's employment, when Lee was on tour in South America with Motley Crue and continues to date. These documented remarks include, but are not limited to stating that plaintiff is untrustworthy and performed illegal and improper acts while employed by Tommy Lee. These disparaging and defamatory remarks are false and were made solely with the purpose to disparage and in order to interfere with plaintiff's ability to earn a living in the music industry. Lee's statements have damaged Sullivan's reputation and have interfered with Sullivan's existing and potential employment opportunities and business associations. Indeed, due to Lee's irresponsible and defamatory comments, plaintiff lost at least two jobs, both tour manager positions with prominent rock bands. The first position, with the band Godsmack, would have lasted a minimum of five weeks and Sullivan would have earned an income of $3,000 per week. The second position was to be the tour manager for the band Bush."

Sullivan says the Bush job would have paid $3,000 a week for 11 weeks, and that he lost that one too "due to Lee's defamatory statements and interference."

Sullivan seeks unpaid overtime and his unreimbursed business expenses, compensation for lost profits and business opportunities, and punitive damages for defamation, intentional and negligent interference with prospective economic advantage, violations of business and labor laws, and emotional distress.

He is represented by Alan Harris with Harris & Ruble.

Bizkit binned by label

Low sales of Gold Cobra get band dropped – but Durst says being unsigned band is best thing for them


Limp Bizkit have been dropped by record label Interscope after their comeback album yielded disappointing sales.

Gold Cobra was their first release in over six years and featured the return of wayward guitarist Wes Borland.

Despite strong anticipation it hasn’t lived up to expectations – but frontman Fred Durst says the band were right to do things their way.

He tells Poolside With Dean Delray: “It was a record for us to do for ourselves, for core faces, for some of the people we know in the industry.

“It wasn’t our step forward to make a big, pop, smash radio record. We didn’t want to make that record at that time. We’ve been working to re-navigate where we’re going to take Limp Bizkit.

“Finally we have been able to get off our label and become independent.”

Durst maintains the band’s future is in no danger, and they’ll return to the studio on their own terms at some point in the future. Meanwhile they’re planning to steer clear of their home nation for a good deal of the time.

“We do very, very good on our touring,” the frontman reports. “We mainly tour outside the United States. It seems like inside they’re waiting on a hit and the rest of the world doesn’t operate that way.

“So I’m waiting until we can really give them something they can sink their teeth into and then they can be reminded about how ill Limp Bizkit is live.”