Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Today's Day in Rock

Concert Leads To Suicide?
(Rock News Desk) A rock music fan committed suicide after suffering tinnitus for three months because he believed he'd never be free of the agony.
Guitarist Robert McIndoe, 52, allegedly acquired a severe form of the hearing problem after attending a Them Crooked Vultures concert in July 2010. He usually wore earplugs to loud shows but he'd forgotten them.

He suffered acute ringing in his ears for three months, which affected his sleeping patterns and his work as a management consultant. After three visits to his doctor, McIndoe reached the conclusion he wasn't going to receive treatment for his condition, and stabbed himself to death. more on this story

Slipknot's Corey Taylor Vs Rick Rubin
(Rock News Desk) Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor has slammed Rick Rubin as "overrated" and "overpaid" and says he'll never work with the producer again.

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

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

Nickelback Fight Protest With Humor
(hennemusic) Nickelback are having some fun with a petition by some Detroit Lions fans to have them replaced as the halftime entertainment for this Thursday's Thanksgiving game against the Green Bay Packers.

More than 55,000 fans have signed the online petition. Now, Nickelback have filmed a skit about the Detroit situation. The video, on humor site Funny or Die, finds the band meeting with comedian Paul Scheer ("The League") as a music executive trying to help the band find a solution to the problem.

"Let's give Motor City that Motown sound they love," Scheer offers the rockers. "You're no longer Nickelback - now you're the Four Nickels. We'll put you guys in matching suits. You'll do synchronized dancing." Check it out here

Zakk Wylde Rocks KISS With Brides
(Banana 101.5) Black Label Society frontman Zakk Wylde will be grinding his axe to the tune of Kiss on the new Black Veil Brides EP, 'Rebels,' which is due for release this Christmas.

It's BLS meets BVB on the upcoming 'Rebels' EP. The disc will feature the leather clad rockers covering Billy Idol's 'Rebel Yell,' an original tune titled 'Coffins,' and also boasts Zakk Wylde's axework on a cover of the Kiss song 'Unholy.' BVB announced Wylde's involvement via Facebook yesterday, saying:

"Our good friend and rock n roll legend Zakk Wylde plays guitar on the song 'Unholy' from our upcoming Rebels EP!" More including previews.

Guns N' Roses Cancel Show
(hennemusic) The Guns N' Roses show in Albany, set for tonight (Wednesday), has been canceled.

CBS Channel 6 in Albany reports The Times Union Center released a statement regarding the cancellation that says, in part:

"Due to production issues beyond the venue's control, Magic City Productions and the Times Union Center are forced to cancel the appearance of Guns and Roses set to take place on November 23, 2011." more on this story

Mudvayne On Hold Until 2014
(Banana 101.5) Due to the upcoming album and touring obligations of Hellyeah, guitarist Greg Tribbett says his other band Mudvayne will remain inactive for at least two more years.

Vocalist Chad Gray and guitarist Greg Tribbett are fortunate enough to be in two successful rock bands — Hellyeah and Mudvayne. Pulling double duty sometimes becomes a double-edged sword when you have to neglect one for the other though. Unfortunately Mudvayne fans are feeling the burn this time around as they received some tough news via Hellyeah's Twitter yesterday:

"Just to set the Record straight. MUDVAYNE is on Hiatus! Chad [Gray] and I are concentrating on HY [Hellyeah] and will be touring HY the next 2 years! Cheers !" more on this story

Hagar Wants Van Halen To Make A Great Record
(Gibson) With Van Halen apparently inking a big deal with Interscope and Eddie Van Halen basically staying out of the press, fans are extra curious about just what to expect from Van Halen's long-awaited new tracks.

Since Eddie is M.I.A., former Van Halen singer Sammy Hagar offered his thoughts about the forthcoming Van Halen release, claiming that he has only the highest hopes for the album. "I'll be the first guy waiting in line at the record store, if I could find one anymore," he told Rolling Stone.

"I'll be really curious. I think they owe the fans that. I would love to see them make a great record. They have some of the most loyal fans in rock, and they've been treated so, so bad these last 20 years. I'm a real fan friendly guy." more on this story



Iron Maiden Frontman Wants To Save Airline
(Rock News Desk) Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson has vowed to save the airline he worked for after it entered administration this week.

The singer started flying planes for Astreus because he wanted to pilot large vehicles he could never afford himself. Maiden hired their Boeing 757 Ed Force One from the firm. Earlier this year he also became its marketing director.

Astreus stopped trading on Monday after Dickinson landed its final flight – but he says it could be the best thing to happen under the circumstances.
Dickinson says, "I'm already working on a plan to save Astreus, or at least create a new business with new jobs for my friends and former colleagues. This is a serious plan involving people who are very good at their jobs." A lot more from Bruce here.

Red Hot Chili Peppers Offering Up Concert Downloads
(hennemusic) The Red Hot Chili Peppers are now offering downloads of their live shows. On Tuesday, the band announced that full concerts are available to download, starting with the November 7, 2011 gig at London's 02 Arena.

"We know you can't travel to every show, so we are bringing the shows to you," posted the band.

Shows on the "I'm With You" tour are available in various formats, including mp3, FLAC and iTunes-friendly Apple Lossless formats. more on this story

Spock's Beard Lose Their Voice
(Rock News Desk) Spock's Beard vocalist Nick D'Virgilio has left the band to focus on his solo career and role as a musician in circus show Cirque du Soleil.

He says: "Working for Cirqe du Soleil is great because I am finally able to fully support my family with this very unstable life I chose as a musician, but also very tough because this job has made it hard to do other things, and the main thing is Spock's Beard.

"I have had the best time and have made some of the best music of my career with Dave, Al, Ryo and Neal, and will take those memories with me for the rest of my life." More rock news

Will.i.am's Dream Collaboration With Rolling Stones Mick Jagger
(Gibson) Nobody says no to Will.i.am. Yet, when the rapper and producer set out to record his new single, "T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)," he thought there was little chance Rolling Stone Mick Jagger would agree to collaborate on the song.

In fact, that was his reason for asking Jagger. "I went to play material for the label and Jimmy Iovine's like, 'Yo, this is dope. Who are you gonna put on it?,'" Will told Rolling Stone. "I'm like, 'What are you talking about? It's finished, it's me.' So, he's like, 'Oh, you don't feature no one?'"

Will.i.am had to think fast. Who would be impossible to get on the song? "So I think of the hardest thing ever. And it happened, Mick Jagger. I just wanted to throw something out there that I thought could never be possible so they would stop asking me." Of course, Jagger agreed to do it



Nils Will Miss Clarence on E Street Band's Tour
(Rock News Desk) Nils Lofgren says he's not looking forward to the Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band's first tour without saxophonist Clarence Clemons, who died in June.

The guitarist dedicated his latest solo album to his colleague and has rewritten his track Miss You Ray, originally about Ray Charles, to become Miss You C.

Lofgren says of Bruce Springsteen's 2012 touring plans: "It'll be more than strange. There's no Clarence – there can't be. I remember when we lost Danny Federici: it was rough enough. I found myself standing on stage looking at a video of Danny's whole life as a musiaind and it was very, very emotional. This will be too." more on this story

3 Doors Down Surprise Military Family
3 Doors Down gave a military family the surprise of their life this past weekend. We were sent these details:

The band had selected military wife Amber Raymond to draw the raffle at their 8th Annual The Better Life Foundation event at the Horseshoe Casino in Tunica, Mississippi.

The real prize came when her husband, Sgt. Edward Raymond, who has been stationed in Iraq, showed up to surprise Amber and their children. The Mississippi Army National Guard and 3 Doors Down's The Better Life Foundation have been secretly working on this top secret surprise for over five months. more on this story

The Doors Mr. Mojo Risin DVD and Blu-Ray Coming
A new DVD/Blu-Ray "Mr. Mojo Risin'" the story of The Doors L.A. Woman is set to be released on January 24, 2012 and will include "She Smells So Nice," a newly-discovered original song from the l.A. Woman sessions.

Here are the details: The group's final album--1971's L.A. WOMAN, with the signature hits "L.A. Woman," "Love Her Madly" and "Riders On The Storm"--is being celebrated with a special two-CD release from Rhino and a behind-the-scenes DVD/Blu-ray from Eagle Rock Entertainment.
The L.A. Woman 40th anniversary edition (Rhino 2-CD) features a never-before-heard song, "She Smells So Nice," which captures the band--organist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, drummer John Densmore and late singer Jim Morrison--joyfully barreling through a full-throttle original before segueing into the blues standard "Rock Me."

As the song closes, Morrison can be heard chanting, "Mr. Mojo Risin'"--an anagram of his name that was made famous during the bridge of "L.A. Woman." Recently discovered by producer Bruce Botnick while reviewing the L.A. Woman session tapes, a teaser clip of "She Smells So Nice" can be heard here.

In addition to "She Smells So Nice," the second disc of the L.A. Woman reissue includes eight never-before-heard versions of songs from the album. more on this story

Skrillex Fans Can't Wait for Korn Collaboration
(Rock News Desk) Korn drummer Ray Luzier loved taking a risk by collaborating with dubstep musician Skrillex on their new album.

He says: "That's what I love about this band – they're not afraid to try new things.

"I'm already having e-mails from Skrillex fans saying they don't own a Korn record, but they can't wait for the new album. I'm sure we'll piss off a lot of die-hards, but there's nothing wrong with being creative and expanding what you're doing." (Loudwire) More rock news

Sex Pistols Graffiti Must Be Saved Says Archaeologist
(Rock News Desk) A doctor of archaeology wants Sex Pistols graffiti on the wall of a London flat to be preserved for posterity.

And Dr John Schofield of York University says the "offensive and rude" scrawlings are more important than lost Beatles recordings and equally valuable as Neanderthal cave paintings.

The punk icons' graffiti was found behind cupboards in a 19th-century building on Denmark Street, in the Tin Pan Alley music industry area of London. more on this story

Faulkner Not Trying To Replace KK In Judas Priest
(Rock News Desk) Richie Faulkner understands some Judas Priest fans are finding it difficult to accept his arrival in the band after KK Downing quit.

The guitarist says: "I'm not there to replace a forty-year career. Ken was influential. He was a guitar idol of mine. I know as a fan what the fans can expect, and I'm just there to do the best I can for the band and the fans."

Bandmate Glenn Tipton recently revealed how Faulkner didn't believe the offer to join Priest was genuine – now Faulkner reveals his side of the story. Read that here.

Chris Vrenna Leaves Marilyn Manson
(SE) Marilyn Manson drummer/keyboardist Chris Vrenna has left the band to focus on his growing film and video game scoring, production career and DJ outings as well as work on the forthcoming 2012 Tweaker release.

"I'm incredibly proud of the work I did with Manson and look forward to the release of Born Villain. I wish my brothers well but with the recording largely completed I felt it was time to return to other facets of my career which involves production work, film scoring, and future musical collaborations," explained Vrenna.

Vrenna rose to prominence in the early '90s as a full-time member of Nine Inch Nails, having been a permanent member of Trent Reznor's band since Nine Inch Nails' inception and for the following eight years. His production and programming credits include the aforementioned Nine Inch Nails, Smashing Pumpkins, Marilyn Manson, Guns'n'Roses and most recently work on Evanescence's self-titled 2011 album. Vrenna is also a sought after remixer working on tracks by U2, Nelly Furtado, Rammstein, and Slipknot.

3 Inches Of Blood Begin New Album
3 Inches Of Blood announced that they will be entering the studio to begin tracking their fifth full length album, set for release in 2012.

The band will be working out of Vogville Studios and Profile Studios in Vancouver with engineer and producer Terry Sho Murray, who also worked on the band's last 7".

Guitarist Shane Clark comments, "We 're in pre-production mode here in east van and we're writing our next blood soaked metal masterpiece!! We are keeping true metal alive, so f**k trends brothers and sisters!! Stay metal!!! You will hear from us very soon! more on this story

This Week's Top Rock Releases
(hennemusic) Rock heavyweights are starting to bring out the big guns with new releases for the holiday season.

Topping the list this week is the major "Some Girls" reissue by The Rolling Stones; the 1978 album now comes with a bonus disc featuring tracks from the original sessions…and then there's the "Some Girls Live In Texas" concert DVD for fans to take in, as well.

The debut from James Durbin should get a lot of attention from music buyers, along with the Chris Cornell live set, "Songbook," recorded on his spring tour. There's new Nickelback and Daughtry, the massive Rush box set, "Sectors," and more on this week' list of rock releases. See what else hit this week.

Prong Begin Recording New Album With Dillinger Escape Plan Producer
Prong have entered the studio with producer Steve Evetts to record their new album which will be released under a new deal with SPV/Long Branch Records.

"He understands PRONG in a way no other producer we've ever worked with has," says Prong guitarist, vocalist and mainstay Tommy Victor on the choice of producer. Evetts' recent work includes the likes of Dillinger Escape Plan and Suicide Silence.

"We have a lot of history and have always evolved as a band. The goal for all of us was to take all of that and make a definitivePRONG album," Victor continues. more on this story

Thirty Seconds To Mars Go Gold
Thirty Seconds To Mars album 'This Is War' has been certified Gold by the RIAA (sales of 500,000 copies in the United States).

The news comes as the band prepare for their Mars 300 shows next month in NYC which will commemorate their Guinness Book Of World Record breaking 300th show played during a single album cycle.

This Is War was released on December 9th, 2009 and has since sold over 1.5 million albums and 1 million singles around the world more on this story

What Would Cause R.E.M. To Reunite?
(Rock News Desk) R.E.M. remain on good terms but would only reunite if they needed money.

The band ended their 31-year career in September, but have shown no signs of ever planning to reform.

Frontman Michael Stipe says of a reunion: "Never say never, but we're not going to do it. If we ever did, it would be because one of us really needed money. more on this story

From Dr Feelgood To Game of Thrones
(Rock News Desk) Wilko Johnson lived through a culture-shock while playing an assassin in award-winning medieval fantasy TV show Game of Thrones.

He recently spent time on set near Belfast, Northern Ireland, in scenes which will appear in the show's second series, to be broadcast next year.

The former Dr Feelgood guitarist couldn't believe he had to get up early in the morning – then when he did he couldn't sit down. But he's relieved producers found a way to prevent him having to study the script for hours on end. more on this story

Strawberry Fields DVD Delayed
(MMP) The release date of Strawberry Fields' first live DVD has been pushed back to 13th February 2012 in Europe and 20th March 2012 in USA (via MVD).

"Live Strawberry Fields" DVD was recorded on the 20th of April 2011, at Silesian Theatre in Katowice, Poland. S

zadkowski and Robin were accompanied on stage by the former's fellow musicians from the band Satellite – Sarhan Kubeisi (guitars), Jarek Michalski (bass), Krzysztof Palczewski (keys) and the band's new guitarist Michał Kirmuć. more on this story

Singled Out: Underride's Blinded By You
Hello rock peeps around the world! This is Rev, the lead singer from the band Underride out of Seattle, WA. We're currently out on tour with Tantric, Man Made Machine and Eve to Adam playing songs from our new record "Distorted Nation" [available on iTunes].

To give this tour a kick in the @ss, we decided to pimp out one of our favorite tracks, "Blinded By You". I chose this song because it showcases many common ingredients we like to use when we cook up songs. "Blinded By You" has great energy and power from heavy guitar riffs and anthemic vocals to a fiercely melodic guitar solo.

The "Distorted Nation" era of Underride began with two new guitar players who approached our brand of "Camaro Rock" differently from the guys before them. "Blinded By You" was one of the first songs that Princess and Suzuki Sixx threw at me. I cranked it on my speaks and it just blew me away. Immediately, I sat down and wrote the vocal part in about a half hour. I know it sounds cliché, but the song kind of wrote itself.

We ran the song through the paces by working it live on the floor to iron out the arrangement making it leaner and brazenly straight forward. In typical fashion, I took the lyrical content from what was happening in my personal life at that time.

Sometimes relationships with friends take a turn for the worse and you're not even sure why. But, all too often, the damage is done and you're better off on your own. It's not meant to be a negative song. It's really about gaining power from independence. Moving forward is the best way to put "things" in your past.

I hope rock fans like the song as much as we do. Underride opens the show with "Blinded By You" and the fans that come out to support the rock show seem to really dig it!

NIKKI SIXX Visits Military Medical Center -

Nov. 21, 2011
Premier Networks syndicated "Sixx Sense" radio personality and MÖTLEY CRÜE/SIXX: A.M. bassist Nikki Sixx and his "Sixx Sense" co-host Kerri Kasem visited with wounded warriors at the Fisher Houses and Center For The Intrepid last Wednesday, November 16, during a trip to the Brooke Army Medical Center campus at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

"Kerri and I left feeling inspired and motivated, and have set the wheels in motion to come back and help raise money through 'Sixx Sense' for Fisher House and Center For The Intrepid," Sixx stated.

The integrated medical complex at Brooke Army Medical Center consists of the Center For The Intrepid, a $60 million physical rehabilitation facility funded and built by the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, and four Fisher Houses, built by the Fisher House Foundation. The entire complex was opened in 2007.

Sixx's radio programs are syndicated by Premiere Networks, a subsidiary of Clear Channel Communications, which recently raised more than $700,000 for Fisher House Foundation as part of a nationwide week-long campaign that culminated in a radio fundraiser on Veterans Day, November 11.

Photos of Sixx's visit can be found at KZEP.com.

TODAYS DAY IN POP!

Today's Full Report


Justin Bieber Takes DNA Test To Prove The Baby Isn't His
(TMZ) Justin Bieber took a DNA test on Friday night in New Jersey, and now it's baby mama's move ... TMZ has learned.
We've learned ... Justin took the test at a lab under "very controlled circumstances." We're told there is a solid chain of custody, so it's going to be hard for Mariah Yeater or her lawyer to challenge it.

As we first reported, Justin's team will NOT settle or even discuss settlement with Yeater or her lawyer. It's now up to her to provide DNA results from Mariah's baby.

Justin has vowed to sue Mariah and her lawyers once he establishes he's not the daddy.

Mariah's lawyer was unavailable for comment. more on this story

Katy Perry To Host Saturday Night Live
(popmusiclife) Katy Perry will return to Saturday Night Live next month as the host of the show. Katy will host the December 10 program, along with music guest Robyn.

It will mark Katy's debut as host; she was the music guest on last season's premiere episode, hosted by long-time SNL cast member Amy Poehler.

Not only did the pop star sing a couple of songs, but she got in on the comedy fun by joining a few skits during the show. more on this story

Michael Jackson's Immortal Arrives
Epic Records has released Immortal, the new album from Michael Jackson and soundtrack for Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour by Cirque du Soleil currently traveling though North America.

Musical designer Kevin Antunes worked with Jamie King, the writer/director of Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour, in redesigning and reimagining more than 40 of Michael Jackson's greatest original recordings, creating a fully immersive experience into Michael's world by synching this re-envisioned music with the visuals on screen and the live action unfolding before audiences on stage.

After spending a year in the studio working with Michael's original multi-track master recordings, Kevin created this new soundscape to Michael's artistry while preserving the power and familiarity of his unparalleled voice and his legendary tracks. The result was not just a unique musical journey through Michael's world but also an album that offers a fresh listening experience. Even those who are still waiting to see the traveling arena show will appreciate the depth and richness of Michael's music in an entirely new way. more on this story

Natalie Wood Death Investigation Won't Lead To Prosecution?
(TMZ) Sources in the L.A. County District Attorney's Office are scratching their heads over the Natalie Wood death investigation, because they say there's no way the D.A. is going to prosecute Robert Wagner or anyone else.

Although the L.A. County Sheriff's Dept. says Robert Wagner is not a suspect, it's pretty clear -- as the last person to see Natalie Wood alive -- he's the target of the probe.

Under California law, even if Wagner accidentally pushed Natalie into the dark water ... the most he could be charged with is involuntary manslaughter. But here's the problem -- there's a statute of limitations of 3 years for that crime, so prosecutors would have had to file charges 27 years ago. Ditto voluntary manslaughter, which has a statute of limitations of 3 years.

The only crime for which anyone could be prosecuted is first degree murder, because there's no statute of limitations. Remember, there are no possible witnesses other than Robert Wagner. Short of a bizarre confession, D.A. sources say there's no chance of a prosecution. BTW, there's a 6-year statute of limitations on second degree murder.

As for why the Sheriff is investigating the death ... one D.A. source said, "It's an exercise in futility. I just don't get it." more on this story

Lady Gaga Makes TV Appearance
(popmusiclife) Lady Gaga was a guest Sunday night on Alan Carr's "Chatty Man" program on Channel 4 in the UK. Gaga joined Carr for an extended interview before joining in on a cooking segment…and playing her latest single, "Marry The Night."

During the conversation, Gaga spoke about her recent performance of the song on the UK edition of X Factor, saying that producers gave her free reign to do whatever she wanted with her presentation.

"'Marry the Night' is about marrying your obstacles and the challenges that you face to become great or to live your dreams," said Gaga, "so I thought it would be a funny metaphor to sing on 'X Factor' with my head cut off. The show must go on." Check it out here.

Rihanna Appears On The Ellen Degeneres Show
(popmusiclife) The new Rihanna album, "Talk That Talk," is now out and the pop superstar stopped by the Ellen DeGeneres show on Monday to promote its release.

During their chat, Rihanna opened up to Ellen about her dating life…or lack of it. "I am not dating anyone right now," she said. "I am not dating at all."

"I am not necessarily happy being single. It's not really that cool," continued Rihanna. "It sucks, but it is what it is. There are things that … Let me say this right. Not make it like my work is my everything. I do put a lot into my job … It definitely affects my personal life. My personal life is non-existent, which is not good, for the long run, not for me, not for 'her,'" as she pointed downward. Check out video here.

Earth, Wind & Fire To Deliver Now, Then & Forever
Legacy Recordings have set a January 31st release date for a new single-disc compilation for Earth, Wind & Fire called Now, Then & Forever.

More than simply a new career-spanning best-of compilation, Now, Then & Forever centers around favorite tracks hand-picked by A-list celebrity friends and fans of the band including world-class musicians whose work has been influenced or inspired by EWF's groundbreaking catalog.

Celebrity curators who've picked their favorite EWF songs for the Now, Then & Forever collection include Andre 3000, Lenny Kravitz, Pharrell, Raphael Saadiq, will.i.am and David Foster, among others. more on this story

Leonard Cohen To Return With Old Ideas
Columbia Records has set a January 31, 2012 release date for Leonard Cohen's new album "Old Ideas". Here are the official details:

The album's ten songs poetically address some of the most profound quandaries of human existence - the relationship to a transcendent being, love, sexuality, loss and death. Arguably the most overtly spiritual of the revered artist's albums, Old Ideas inspires commitment to a greater sense of compassion and decency.

While the recording of Old Ideas began in earnest in January 2011, many of the new songs and their lyrics have been in the works for years. Early versions of two album tracks, "Amen" and "Lullaby" were originally recorded in 2007, while early versions of "Lullaby" and " The Darkness" were performed live during Cohen's recently concluded, sold-out world tour. more on this story

Mary J. Blige Set For TV Concert Special
HSN have announced a live concert by Mary J. Blige that will take place at 12:30 am and 10 pm EST on November 30th.

Blidge is appearing to celebrate her album My Life II … The Journey Continues (Act 1) and My Life Blossom Fragrance Holiday Gift Sets as a part of HSN's 24 Hour Beauty Gift Event.

"I'm excited to bring you My Life II … The Journey Continues (Act I) with my beautiful fragrance My Life Blossom," says Blige. "They both are two very personal projects of mine and pure gifts from my heart." more on this story

Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu and Boyz II Men Added To Vh1 Divas
Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Boyz II Men, Estelle, Marsha Ambrosius and Travie McCoy have been added to this year's VH1 Divas lineup.

They will join VH1's "divas" in paying homage to these cities and soul music's timeless classics at New York City's Hammerstein Ballroom. "VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul" premieres Monday, December 19 at 9 PM/8c on VH1.

"We are so excited to feature these diverse and multi-talented women and men joining our 'Divas' roster this year to showcase the global impact of soul music and how influential and inspirational the music is to today's chart-topping artists," said Lee Rolontz, EVP, Original Music Production & Development, VH1 and VH1 Classic. "Celebrating the soul music borne out of some of the world's greatest cities being performed by today's top artists with the iconic legends that put soul music on the map prove this year's 'Divas' will be a must-see event." more on this story

MTV Plans Britney Spears Music Video Tournament
MTV News is launching a Britney Spears Music Video Tournament that will celebrate the pop star's 30th Birthday on December 2nd with the crowning of her best video ever.

MTV sent over these details: It's up to Britney fans and all MTV.com readers to vote in the first round, where we have pitted 30 of Britney's iconic videos against each other bracket-style to battle it out for the highest honor of being named the Best Britney Video Ever, just in time for Spears' 30th birthday December 2.

The first round of voting is open until Tuesday at 11:59 p.m., at which point the 30 videos will be narrowed down to the top 16. You can vote as many times as you wish and campaign as much as you see fit for your favorite videos to move on to the next round of voting. more on this story

Bruno Mars Score Twilight Hit
Bruno Mars new single "It Will Rain," has gone top 10. The track is the first single from the recently released "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack."

The success of "It Will Rain" marks the 11th top 10 single for Mars, following solo blockbusters like the #1 hits "Just The Way You Are" and "Grenade" – both featured on 2010's 24x-worldwide platinum debut album, "Doo-Wops & Hooligans"

His other hits include songs written and co-produced by Mars in his role as one of The Smeezingtons (Mars, Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine), including fellow Elektra recording artist Cee Lo Green's history-making "F**k You," recording artist Travie McCoy's "Billionaire (Feat. Bruno Mars)," and "Nothin' On You (Feat. Bruno Mars)," the #1 smash by Rebel Rock Entertainment/Grand Hustle/Atlantic recording artist B.o.B.

Very Best of Neil Diamond Details
Columbia Records and Legacy Recordings have set a December 6th release date for The Very Best of Neil Diamond - The Original Studio Recordings.

The new long-awaited definitive single disc compilation of 23 best-loved hits and signature tracks from America's quintessential singer-songwriter is the first Neil Diamond collection to draw from the artist's complete studio discography.

The Very Best of Neil Diamond - The Original Studio Records includes his first pop chartings as a writer/performer for Bang Records in the mid-1960s; his spectacular career-defining hits for Uni/MCA (1968-1972); music from 1980's The Jazz Singer (his 5x platinum-selling soundtrack album on Capitol Records) and studio essentials from a long-running association with Columbia Records that began in 1973 with the Jonathan Livingston Seagull soundtrack album and runs through a pair of Rick Rubin-produced albums: 12 Songs (2005) and Home Before Dark (which became Neil's first Number 1 album on the Billboard 200 in 2008). more on this story

Lady Gaga and Rihanna Lead This Week's New Releases
(popmusiclife) It's a very busy week for new music from some of pop's biggest names, as we get a week closer to Christmas…and to the US Thanksgiving long weekend.

New albums are out now from Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Adam Lambert and others.

New DVDs include projects from Lady Gaga, Britney Spears and Taylor Swift. See what else is coming out this week here.

NCIS Star Pleads Not Guilty in Choking Case
(TMZ) "NCIS" actor David Fisher insists .. he isn't some ruthless neighbor-choking bully -- and has officially pled "not guilty" in his battery case.

TMZ broke the story ... Fisher was arrested back in September after an argument with his neighbor turned violent -- with Fisher allegedly attempting to asphyxiate the guy.

Fisher claims he only got physical in self-defense, after his neighbor insulted the actor's dead mother -- but law enforcement didn't buy it ... charging Fisher with simple battery weeks after the incident.

Fisher pled "not guilty" to the misdemeanor charge soon after, and is due back in court next month. Calls to Fisher have not been returned. more on this story

Singled Out: J. Dash's The Wop (Featuring Flo Rida)
Today J. Dash tells us about "The Wop" from the forthcoming debut album "Tabloid Truth". Here is the story:

The Wop started as a dance my friends and I did in the club to other people's music. The Wop itself is very simple and we would do so many different things in-between, like smoke the cigarette, kill the roach, hold the trophy….the dance could go on for hours and there would be a crowd of people at the club watching us.

It was so organic, we had so much swag when we were doing it that people HAD to watch to see what we were gonna do next. They wanted to hate but couldn't! The dance looks so much better in numbers so it would start as the three of us, then we'd teach some girls, then some guys would learn and next thing you know the whole place would be doin' the Wop.

One night my friends told me I HAD to make a song that we could do the dance to. I produce my own beats as well so I went back to my dorm room at UF and made the track. Honestly, since we had been doing the dance so much thebeat came very naturally, it was already in my head. I did that, wrote the lyrics, recorded it and mixed it all in one day. We took the rough version to the club and had the DJ spin it, immediately the people started reacting to it.

The song started as something for me and my friends, I had no idea it would become how huge it is today. Between my video and fan videos we have 25 MILLION YouTube views, which is just crazy! You should all be on the look out for my album Tabloid Truth, hitting iTunes early next year and make sure to make some videos of you and your friends doing the WOP!

TODAY'S DAY IN ROCK

New Van Halen Not Really New?
(superLOUD) Never shy around the topic of Van Halen, Rolling Stone caught up with Chickenfoot's Sammy Hagar and asked the Red Rocker about his old band. Sammy gave an interesting response when asked about the new Van Halen material:
Rolling Stone: I think nothing would be more fascinating than a Some Kind of Monster-style documentary about the making of this new record. Can you even imagine?

Sammy Hagar: I'd be curious to be a fly on that wall. I heard this record is old outtakes from the old days. I mean, stuff from before I even joined the band. I heard this five years ago though. Michael Anthony was curious if his background vocals would wind up on the album. I don't think it's a bad idea. It's kind of interesting. Bob Seger did it, and so did the Rolling Stones. I think it's an interesting thing to do in your old age if you can't come up with fresh, good stuff – or you can't get along. more on this story

Bee Gees Star Fighting Cancer
(Gibson) Robin Gibb of The Bee Gees is undergoing treatment for liver cancer. Last week, Gibb was taken to the hospital following an emergency call from his 12th century home in Oxfordshire, the Daily Mail reports.

The Daily Mail says the 61-year-old Gibb has been undergoing cancer treatment for several months, and that he was joined in the hospital last week by his 91-year-old mother Barbara and 65-year-old fellow Bee Gee brother Barry.

Gibb appeared on The Alan Titchmarsh Show last month promoting this year's Poppy Appeal single, a cover of The Bee Gees' "I've Gotta Get a Message to You." more on this story



Metallica Have To Learn Metallica
(Gibson) Metallica are set to perform 1991's "Black Album" in its entirety when they perform at next June's Download Festival at Donington in the U.K. But, according to the NME, drummer Lars Ulrich said the band will have to re-learn some of the album – including two tracks that Metallica has never played live.

The concert will include 'The Struggle Within' and 'Don't Tread on Me," Ulrich confirmed, and said: "Although to be honest with you, a song like 'The Struggle Within' is a lot easier to relearn than 'The Frayed Ends of Sanity [from …And Justice for All]. I don't think it's going to be too difficult for us to figure out these songs."

He said that the idea to play the album straight through came from Download Festival organizers.

"The people at Download asked. It wasn't our idea," Ulrich said. "The thing is, although we haven't played at Donington for six years, we have been to England pretty much every summer since then. So they wanted us to do something different, and that's what they came up with." more on this story



Depeche Mode's Vince Clarke and Martin L. Gore Reunite
Mute announced that Vince Clarke (Erasure / Yazoo / Depeche Mode) and Martin L. Gore (Depeche Mode) come together for the first time since 1981 as VCMG to release a brand new album preceded by a series of EPs.

VCMG is the fruit of initially tentative discussion and subsequent enthused collaboration where Vince and Martin, both influential as pioneers in electronic music, get to exercise their lifelong love of the genre as the techno inspired VCMG.

As Vince explains: "I've been getting into and listening to a lot of minimal dance music and I got really intrigued by all the sounds… I realised I needed a collaborator… so it occurred to me to talk to Martin." more on this story

Corey Taylor, Scott Ian and Dave Navarro To Play Henry Rollins Show
(Gibson) Slipknot's Corey Taylor, Scott Ian from Anthrax and Jane's Addiction's Dave Navarro will play at a charity concert organized by Henry Rollins.

The show is to benefit Drop in the Bucket, a charity that helps with water and sanitation projects in sub-Saharan Africa.

According to the Daily Express, Dave Lombardo from Slayer and assorted members of Rob Zombie's band also will performat the Avalon Hollywood on November 30. more on this story



Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band Confirm Initial Tour Dates
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band have confirmed their plans to hit the road next year and release a new album. They released their initial tour dates via their official site.

The site had this message for fans: "A lot of you have been hearing that Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will be on tour in 2012. That is absolutely correct. The European dates run from the middle of May until end of July and are being announced this week. Info on the US dates and the World tour dates will coming up shortly.

"In addition, we want you to know that the music is almost done (but still untitled), we have almost settled on the release date (but not quite yet), and that we are all incredibly excited about everything that we're planning for 2012. That's all the info we have for right now, but we'll get back to you--real soon." more on this story

Ozzy Osbourne Radio Coming
Ozzy Osbourne fans will be able to enjoy the Prince of Darkness 24/7 with the upcoming launch of the Black Sabbath frontman's new SiriusXM radio channel.

Ozzy's Boneyard, channel 38, will feature classic hard rock and metal music from artists like Black Sabbath, Metallica, AC/DC, Jimi Hendrix, Pantera and Van Halen. The music channel is expected to launch later this year.

SiriusXM listeners will hear Ozzy present music as well as share personal stories about his career as a solo artist and as front-man for Black Sabbath. The channel will also air shows and specials hosted by Ozzy family members, Sharon, Jack and Kelly. more on this story

Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys for Lollapalooza
The South American installment of Lollapalooza has been expanded for 2012 to include two festivals in two countries.

The second edition of Lollapalooza Chile will take place in O'Higgins Park in Santiago, March 31 – April 1, 2012, and the first-ever Lollapalooza Brazil will take place at the Jockey Club in São Paulo, April 7-8, 2012.

Lollapalooza Chile and Lollapalooza Brazil will both welcome the Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys, Skrillex, Calvin Harris, MGMT, TV On The Radio, Bassnectar, Band of Horses, Thievery Corporation, Peaches, Cage the Elephant, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, Friendly Fires, Foster the People and Tinie Tempah. more on this story

Slash Making Progress On New Album
(hennemusic) Slash continues work on his next solo album, due out next spring and has updated fans on the progress.

The guitarist and his touring band - Myles Kennedy (Alter Bridge), rhythm guitarist Bobby Schneck, bassist Todd Kerns (Sin City Sinners, formerly of Age Of Electric), and drummer Brent Fitz (formerly of Theory Of A Deadman) – have been holed up at Barefoot Studios in LA with producer Eric Valentine getting ideas together and songs down on tape.

"Ok, 13 songs ready to record," writes Slash in his latest update to fans. "3 already done. 2 more to finish writing before Dec. 12 on the record, 6 bonus trx, Woohoo!" more on this story

Jon Anderson Hitting The Road
Original Yes frontman Jon Anderson has announced a series of select solo concert dates this December in South America.

Jon Anderson, who has one of the most recognizable voices in music, and is best known for his work with YES, Vangelis and Kitaro, as well as his solo efforts, recently completed a successful tour of the east coast in the US with fellow YES member Rick Wakeman.

Jon's South American solo tour promises to deliver an mixture of material from his solo career, collaborations with Vangelis and classic YES songs, along with new compositions from his new CD 'Survival & Other Stories'. more on this story

Aerosmith's Hamilton Issues Post Tour Update
(hennemusic) Aerosmith's Tom Hamilton checks in from the road with a recap of the band's recent South & Central American tour.

The 10-show tour kicked off October 22 in Lima, Peru, where singer Steven Tyler was already feeling the effects of flu-like symptons; the band dropped several classics from the setlist (no "Dream On" !) to accommodate his voice issues. At the tour's second stop - in Asuncion, Paraguay – Tyler's illness hit him hard while in the hotel shower, causing him to pass out and hit his head. Some broken teeth, bruises and cuts were touched up and Tyler was back on stage after a day's delay in doing the show.

The rest of the tour went by without headline-making incidents, but as Hamilton reports, the support of fans made them feel right at home. "What a great time we had," says Tom. "What great fans." more on this story

Morrissey To Play Intimate Show Tomorrow and Be On TV Next Week
(Girlie) Morrissey will play a very intimate performance at Los Angeles' Henry Fonda Theater tomorrow, Wednesday, November 23 and will also will also perform on TBS' Conan on Tuesday the 29th.

The sold-out North American tour follows sold out tours of Europe and the UK. It will conclude on December 18 in Royal Oak, MI and also includes a sold-out date at Los Angeles' legendary Shrine Auditorium.

He will be performing songs from throughout his unparalleled catalog including new unreleased tracks. more on this story

Springsteen and Rolling Stones Classics For Grammy Hall of Fame
The Recording Academy has announced the 2012 Grammy Hall of Fame inductees which include classics from The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Santana and Paul Simon.

The class of 2012 range from Bruce Springsteen's Born In The U.S.A. album to civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech from his historic 1963 address at the March on Washington. Also on the highly regarded list are Cole Porter's "Anything Goes," the Rolling Stones' album Exile On Main St., Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive," Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five's single "The Message," Bill Cosby's comedy album I Started Out As A Child, the Original Broadway Cast recording of "St. Louis Woman," and Tina Turner's "What's Love Got To Do With It."

Others inductees include the entire Anthology Of American Folk Music, Gene Autry, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Doris Day, the Serge Koussevitzky-conducted Boston Symphony Orchestra, Los Panchos, Santana, and Paul Simon, among others. more on this story

Elvis Country: Legacy Edition Coming In January
RCA have announced the release of Elvis Country: Legacy Edition, the newest entry in the series of multi-disc package.

The deluxe two-CD package will be available at all physical and digital retail outlets starting January 3rd through RCA/Legacy.

Forty years after its release in 1971, Elvis Country, an LP that found him getting back in touch with the Nashville country music mainstream. more on this story

Nachtmystium Set To Play Instinct: Decay In Full at Friday The 13th Concert
Nachtmystium fans will get very lucky on Friday, April 13th, when the band will be playing a very special show at Roadburn 2012's Voivod-curated Au-delà du Réel event where for the first and only time, they will play their landmark USBM album Instinct: Decay in its entirety.

When Instinct: Decay was released in 2006, branded as a psychedelic extreme metal record, it was met with deeply divided feedback -some highly laudatory and some derisive. Five years later, the record sounds as good as ever and it seems clear that the derision was merely the backlash of closed-minded black metal fans. Change turned out to be a good thing - now Instinct: Decay is hailed as an enormous milestone in USBM history.

In fact, along with Leviathan, Krieg, and Wolves In The Throne Room, Nachtmystium are considered instrumental in forging a unique musical identity for the USBM scene. This is a unique chance to hear the entire album at this one of a kind show, something definitely not to be missed! more on this story

Holy Grail To Give Fans Seasons Bleedings
Holy Grail have announced the release of a holiday-themed 7-inch, "Seasons Bleedings," which will be limited to 500 copies (250 red, 250 green), and will be available digitally on Dec. 6 and ship to customers shortly thereafter.

The release includes covers of King Diamond's "No Presents For Christmas" and the Rainbow classic "Kill The King," and features artwork by Sam Turner (3 Inches of Blood). This marks the first time that guitarist Alex Lee (ex-Bonded By Blood), who joined Holy Grail in the spring, has recorded with the group.

The digital version of "Seasons Bleedings" will also include covers of Judas Priest's "Exciter" and Accept's "Fast As A Shark," both of which originally appeared on the group's out-of-print debut EP "Improper Burial." (A limited number of "Improper Burial" 7-inches, which do not include the covers, are still available.) more on this story

Singled Out: Spacecamp's Miko D.T.B.
Today Jon Wiley from Spacecamp tells us about "Miko D.T.B." from their brand new EP "Alibi", which was released today. Here is the story:

Miko D.T.B. started off as a jam session in our rehearsal space I'm pretty sure. Or maybe it started off as a jam that Steven, Chris, Omer and I would play on stage at soundcheck during some Adam Green tour we did as his backing band. I can't remember which. I think the first part of the song, the versey-chorusey parts were put together long before the whole crystal-cavern-disco-outro part which probably just came out spontaneously after a joint or a lemon-ginger tea from Pies and Thighs, our favorite snack spot across the street from our space.

The problem is, we've had that song around for a long time but are just now releasing it. That's why it's so hard to remember exactly how it evolved. It's a weird song so maybe it doesn't matter when it was written. The recording doesn't really feel like it fits in any particular two year-pop-trend-pattern-cycle that industry stiffs like to believe exist, maybe some combination of Jan '76, Feb '86, May '96, Sept '06 (what a weird month) and a few weeks ago. Who knows.

Lyrically, the song is about a boat captain who is running a shipment of guns and narcotics from Brazil to the Keys for export to the states. He is betrayed by his lover. His boat is boarded by a group of very good soccer players. They carry golden revolvers and fight valiantly for their heroine (not the drug), Sister Crystalline, also the Captain's fraudulent bed-mate. Her actions are sanctified by the fact that she is the leader of an ancient-mystic-shamanistic-psychotropic religious society. Her motives are unclear, even to me. If only I had a few more hyphens I could probably figure it out. She probably means well, even though she behaved badly.

VINCE NEIL, BRUCE KULICK Perform At 'Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp' In New York

(Video) - Nov. 21, 2011
Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp was founded by David Fishof in 1997 as the ultimate music experience for the amateur or aficionado, pairing music lovers of all levels together with rock icons for a first-hand immersion in the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. Camp attendees move from spectator to band member, sharing the stage — and limelight — with rock legends for an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Forty-seven wannabe rockers took advantage of Citi card's exclusive offer to attend the New York Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp in late October and got the opportunity to jam, rehearse and perform with some of the biggest names in rock 'n' roll.

Video footage of MÖTLEY CRÜE singer Vince Neil and former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick performing at the event can be seen below (courtesy of Guitar International).

Learn more about Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp, tour dates and pricing at www.rockcamp.com.

OZZY OSBOURNE Launches His Own SiriusXM Channel

Nov. 21, 2011
SiriusXM Radio announced today that hard rock and heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne will have his own SiriusXM channel.

Ozzy's Boneyard, channel 38, will feature classic hard rock and metal music from artists like BLACK SABBATH, METALLICA, AC/DC, JIMI HENDRIX, PANTERA and VAN HALEN. The 24/7 music channel is expected to launch later this year.

SiriusXM listeners will hear Ozzy present music as well as share personal stories about his career as a solo artist and as front-man for BLACK SABBATH. The channel will also air shows and specials hosted by Ozzy family members, Sharon, Jack and Kelly.

"After everything I've been through in my career I never imagined I'd end up with my own radio channel on SiriusXM. This is fucking amazing! Does this mean I can play whatever I want?" said Ozzy Osbourne.

"No one represents the evolution of hard rock and heavy metal more than Ozzy Osbourne," said Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer, SiriusXM. "We know Ozzy's Boneyard will be alive and kicking."

Ozzy's Boneyard joins SiriusXM's roster of channels created in partnership with legendary musicians, including Bruce Springsteen's E Street Radio, Pearl Jam Radio, Eminem's Shade 45, Willie Nelson's Willie's Roadhouse, B.B. King's Bluesville, Elvis Radio, Jimmy Buffett's Radio Margaritaville and Siriusly Sinatra.

For more information on SiriusXM, visit www.siriusxm.com.

TODAY'S DAY IN ROCK

Lost Doors Song
(hennemusic) A newly discovered track by The Doors has been found in time for the 40th Anniversary reissue of the band's 1971 release, "L.A. Woman."
Rolling Stone reports producer Bruce Botnick recently discovered "She Smells So Nice" while reviewing the album's session tapes for the reissue, due January 24.

The 2-disc set features alternate takes including "Love Her Madly," "Riders on the Storm" and the title track. Preview the lost track here.


Bruce Springsteen Plans New Album and Tour
(hennemusic) Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will be back in 2012. The Boss' official website confirms that a new album and tour are on the schedule for next year.

Springsteen's site says the European dates run from the middle of May until end of July and are being announced this week; info on the US dates and the World tour dates will be coming up shortly.

As for a new album, the site also announces that "we want you to know that the music is almost done (but still untitled), we have almost settled on the release date (but not quite yet), and that we are all incredibly excited about everything that we're planning for 2012. That's all the info we have for right now, but we'll get back to you - real soon." more on this story


Pearl Jam Offer Free Download
(Banana 101.5) Pearl Jam is offering up their entire 27 song performance in Toronto that took place on the ten year anniversary of 9/11. The set featuring Pearl Jam classics as well as a 12-minute version of 'Rockin' in the Free World' featuring Neil Young is available via Google Music.

Pearl Jam is giving back to all those who missed out on their Toronto gig on 9/11/11 by allowing them to download the entire show for free.

The setlist featured a wide range of hits like 'Betterman' and 'Alive' to first ever performances like their soulful rendition of (pre-Pearl Jam band) Mother Love Bone's 'Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns.' more on this story


The Eagles Have 40th Anniversary Flight Plans
(Gibson) The Eagles will celebrate their upcoming 40th anniversary with a retrospective tour, according to Joe Walsh.

Speaking to Rolling Stone, the veteran guitarist said fans can expect something different from past Eagles tours. "Everybody's seen our show, so we have to put together something new," Walsh revealed. "We've been archiving so much stuff from the band's early days, concert footage and interviews and stuff. Those will be the visuals to go along with the songs. We'll also revisit some old songs and some new stuff."

Walsh went on to say the tour will be staged in the second half of 2012, and will last four or five months. In the meantime, he has a solo album slated for release next spring, and hopes to tour with his old band, the James Gang. more on this story



Steven Tyler For Oprah Winfrey's New Series Premiere
(hennemusic) Steven Tyler is helping Oprah Winfrey launch her new series, Oprah's Next Chapter.

The pair sit down for an interview at Tyler's New Hampshire home, recorded this past September, for the series' 2-hour premiere on Sunday, January 1 from 9-11 p.m. on OWN TV.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, in the debut episode, Winfrey and Tyler cover everything from the Aerosmith singer's years of drug addiction, his complicated relationships with his wives, and American Idol. more on this story


Michael Anthony Happier Without Van Halen Drama
(hennemusic) Bassist Michael Anthony has lived through so many years of Van Halen battles that he's glad to be drama-free in his existence as a member of Chickenfoot.

"The best part about Chickenfoot is that nobody needs the money," Anthony tells Premiere Guitar . "We've got nothing we need to prove to anybody. We wanted this to be a fun band and when we get in the studio it's just so loose, relaxed, and open. It's like the early days of Van Halen. Everybody's just throwing in their input and having a great time making music. We don't want any pressure and we said if any came up, we should just stop doing this."

"At this point in my life and career, I'm so happy with what I'm doing and I want to have fun making music. I don't want any drama," Mike continues. "That whole drama thing in Van Halen, the way it ended up, I was like, 'I'd rather make no money having fun playing music than make a sh*tload of money tearing my hair out.' Maybe when I was 20 it would have been different, but not at this point. I want to keep my sanity." more on this story


Collective Soul Planning New Album
(Audio Ink Radio) Collective Soul bass player Will Turpin says the guys are in discussions to put together a new album as early as in the next six months.

"I can't really say for sure, but there are definitely discussions going on about scheduling that, and songs have been played and started, so we've already started some creativity," Turpin exclusively told Audio Ink Radio.

"Nothing is really scheduled yet. I would think that the next six months, we'll get something going on." Find out what he is doing in the meantime.

Original BulletBoys Lineup Reuniting
(superLOUD) Singer Marq Torien has continued to keep the BulletBoys name active in recent years.

However, the original lineup of Marq, Mick Sweda on guitar, Lonnie Vencent on bass and Jimmy D'Anda on drums will be playing a special show on December 30th at the Key Club in Hollywood, according to Blabbermouth.

An interview with Torien on RadioScreamer Magazine about the reunion is on youtube. For now, this sounds like a one-time only show. more on this story


Slayer Working On New Album
Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo had good news for fans that the group is working on their next album.

Lombardo posted on his personal Facebook page that "Slayer is writing a new record. Jeff is still recovering and doing better."

Loudwire reports that Lombardo' experimental project Philm will release music via Mike Patton's Ipecac Records. more on this story


Meet KISS At Archie Meets KISS Comic Book Signing
(hennemusic) Archie Meets KISS is a 4-part series featuring the kids from Riverdale and the kids from KISS, as they team up to prevent mindless zombies from overtaking their town.

Featuring words by Alex Segura, and art by Dan Parent, the debut edition is Archie #627.

To help launch the series on release day – November 30 - Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons will hold a signing session at Golden Apple Comics in Los Angeles to mark the occasion. more on this story


Anthrax Plan New Tour
Anthrax plan to follow up their tour with Testament and Death Angel with another trek early next year.

Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian posted the following news on Twitter " We start in the U.S. again third week of January. Dates coming soon! Stay tuned my friends."

As for their tour with Testament and Death Angel, Ian twits: To everyone that came out & shared the insanity on this tour,on behalf of @Anthrax,I thank you and wish you a happy holiday & new year. Scott's Twitter page


Bon Jovi Cover Guitarist Loses It
Ultimate Classic Rock reports that a guitar player in a Bon Jovi cover band decides he simply can't bare the thought of running through a mediocre cover of 'You Give Love a Bad Name' for what could be for the hundredth time — so rather than fake it, he takes the most rock 'n' roll way out.

AYouTube clip— first discovered by the badass site Badass Digest — captures it all.

As the singer launches into that familiar "Shot through the heart / and you're to blame" intro, the guitarist decides he's had enough, smashes his instrument with his best 'London Calling' over-the-shoulders swing, tosses the it to the side of the stage and ambles off. Check it out


Wayne Static Hitting The Road
Static-X frontman Wayne Static has announced a handful of live shows in the Western United states next month.

That dates begin December 14 in Las Vegas, Nevada and includes a performance at Denver's KBPI-FM's Mistletoe Jam on December 16.

Static is hitting the road for these dates are in support of his recently released debut solo album, Pighammer. These dates will be followed in early 2012 with a North American tour to be announced shortly. more on this story


Chris Cornell Record Store Day Event
Chris Cornell will celebrate Record Store Day's Back To Black Friday with an appearance at Vintage Vinyl in Fords, New Jersey on Saturday, November 26th at 3:30pm EST.

Says Cornell, "My fans were pretty vocal, Tweeting and posting online, asking me to record the shows and put them out. So this album as a whole came from that, and I think we created something that really captured my tour and what I was putting out there each night,"

Vintage Vinyl store owner, Rob Roth says, "I'm so thrilled that Chris has chosen Vintage Vinyl for this extraordinary event. Having him come in and hang with our customers is a huge honor." More info


Gwar To Carry On With Tour After Guitarist's Death
(Freeman) Gwar plan to carry on with their Europe tour in Jan. 2012, despite the recent death of guitarist Cory Smoot, during the bands "Return of the World Maggot Tour".

Said Gwar spokesman Dave Brockie a.k.a. Oderus Urungus-- "When Cory died, we all wanted to go home and take care of the family and our own grief. But the best way to do that is by playing all the shows we have planned. The response from the U.S. metal community and especially the whole international GWAR family has been overwhelmingly supportive...these GWAR fans need the chance to pay their respects to Cory, and cancelling any shows would deprive them of that."

"Let's make these shows a celebration of Cory Smoot, one of the most amazing players in metal...I am calling on the European GWAR family to get out there and drag everybody in sight to these gigs! We shall honor Flattus Maximus in the only way we know how...by rocking the f*** out!!!" more on this story


Autopsy Complete All Tomorrow's Funerals and Set Release
(Fresno) Autopsy have completed recording and remastering work on the upcoming, All Tomorrow's Funerals release, which is due out February 28th on Peaceville Records and they are already planning the follow up release.

This release will contain all of Autopsy's EP's re-mastered by the band themselves, as well as new cuts, totaling 22 tracks all together. Everything from 'Retribution For The Dead' to the now sold-out, 'The Tomb Within,' will be presented on CD and DLP with all original artworks, liner notes from the band and new cover art from renowned artist, Matt Cavotta.

Said the band, "Well, we've finished recording a few new tracks for the upcoming collection album All Tomorrow's Funerals, and they came out brutal and heavy as hell. Along with the newly written songs, we did a revamped version of "Mauled To Death," which is the very last of the old songs that needed a proper album quality recording. This album will also contain all four EP's, all of which are out of print, as well as a compilation track from 1991, so the grand total is 22 tracks. It's something we've wanted to do for quite awhile, getting all the loose chunks together in one place rather than having them split up and added on as bonus tracks here and there. Everything has been painstakingly re-mastered with the band's guidance and sounds better and more crushing than ever. And don't worry, we didn't get carried away and ruin anything! Combine all that with killer new cover art from Matt Cavotta and we've got one hell of release in the works. Look for it in February 2012. more on this story


Ramones Star Jams With Shonen Knife
(hennemusic) Japanese rockers Shonen Knife are currently on a 30th Anniversary tour and playing shows in support of their latest release, "Osaka Ramones: Tribute To The Ramones"

The album contains 13 Ramones covers and clocks in at just over 33 minutes…which sounds about right in Ramonesville. The band's self-reference as the "Osaka Ramones" has some history: Shonen Knife did a live show in Tokyo in 1998, doing all-Ramones cover tunes and billing themselves as "The Osaka Ramones" - a title which Joey Ramone used himself when introducing them onstage at the Troubadour in L.A. in August of '98.

Shonen's US tour pulled into Brooklyn on Friday for a show at the Bell House, where the band wailed through their regular set…before being joined by special guest C.J. Ramone. Check out video here.


Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini Writer Dies
(Gibson) Lee Pockriss, co-writer of the novelty hit, "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini," has died at his home in Connecticut, following a long illness. He was 87.

Pockriss penned a number of pop hits with co-writer Paul Vance, including the Grammy-nominated "Catch a Falling Star," recorded by Perry Como in 1957; and "Tracy," recorded by The Cuff Links in 1969. He also worked extensively in musical theater, writing the music for the 1963 Broadway show, Tovarich, which earned Vivien Leigh a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical; and co-creating the 1969 musical, Gatsby, based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel. Pockriss also wrote several songs for Sesame Street, including "My Polliwog Ways" (sung by Kermit the Frog) and "My Rock" (sung by Bert).

In a 2006 interview, Vance called "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" a "money machine," saying the song earned him – and, presumably, Pockriss – several million dollars. Teen idol Brian Hyland recorded the original hit version, which soared to the top spot on the Billboard charts in August 1960. more on this story



MC5 and Iggy and The Stooges Guitarists Next In Guitar Gods Series
Two pre-punk pioneers are set to be celebrated with new limited edition collectible figures in the Guitar Gods series.

Brother Wayne Kramer, founder of Detroit's radical rock group MC5, and James Williamson, best known for co-writing and playing on "Raw Power" in the protopunk rock band Iggy & The Stooges and his contributions "Kill City" with Iggy Pop, as well as producing "New Values" for Iggy Pop.

Both guitarists were named in Rolling Stone Magazine's "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time". Both figures deliver a signature riff at the push of a button and are displayed in a multi-panel box, stand at 7 inches tall, are made of a lightweight polyresin more on this story


Obscura Hitting The Road
(Freeman) Obscura will hit the road next spring for a headlining European tour that will feature support from Spawn Of Possession, Gorod, and Exivious.

The tour will kick-off on March 9th in Stuttgart, Germany then march through Scandinavia, Eastern and Southern Europe, and the UK before returning to Germany on April 7th.

Obscura's Steffen Kummerer commented on the upcoming run: "We are stoked to announce our upcoming European headlining tour to support our newest album 'Omnivium'! With our label-mates Spawn of Possession, tech-death lunatics Gorod and the fusion influenced Exivious this tour is a must for everyone who is into progressive music. This is the ultimate shredfest of the year!" more on this story


1349 Box Set For Black Friday
1349 will celebrate Record Store Day with a major chain North American release of their "Demonoir" limited-edition box set exclusively at FYE, as part of the chain's "Black Friday" promotion on Friday, Nov. 25.

In addition to the "regular" album (13 tracks and 49 minutes, fittingly), the "Demonoir" box set contains seven bonus tracks (including an unreleased track), a 12-page booklet, poster, guitar pick, patch and autographed photo card.

The box set is hand-numbered and limited to 1000 copies worldwide. The set was released in Europe on October 7th. more on this story


Clutch Set For A Special Acoustic In Store and Expand Holiday Tour
Clutch have confirmed an in store performance and signing for November 27th at Bengans in Goteberg, Sweden where they will perform a special acoustic set.

For fans on this side of the pond, in addition to their already scheduled holiday shows, Clutch have added two shows in Austin, Texas on December 17th and December 18th.

The show on the 17th will be at the brand new Emo's East and the show the following night will be a very intimate show with Clutch playing at the Emo's Inside Room. more on this story


L'Arc en Ciel Plan World Tour
(Musebox) L'Arc en Ciel, one of the biggest rock groups to come out of Japan, plan to follow up their one-night-only music event in nine major U.S. cities on Tuesday, November 29th, with a world tour.

" L'Arc~en~Ciel WORLD TOUR 2012" will celebrate their 20th anniversary and will play New York City's Madison Square Garden on March 23rd, 2012.

L'Arc-en-Ciel released its newest single, "X X X," on October 12th and it shot to #1 on the Japanese Oricon music charts, which is the country's equivalent to Billboard and tracks music sales. more on this story


Singled Out: Lonehill Estate's Gangstar
Today South African rockers on the rise Lonehill Estate tell us about their new single and video for "Gangstar". Here is the story:

Lonehill Estate has never really been one for the sex, drugs and rock n roll. We enjoy tea and pancakes and our hospitality rider includes flavoured milk and sour gums. It was with some surprise then in 2008 then when a campus DJ referred to us as "gangster." At the time, we drove beat up cars passed down from our grandmothers, never used to cuss and the closest we got to bling was a couple of dental fillings.

Gangster rappers are renowned for bragging about all the things we knew we didn't possess and so we decided to brag about exactly that... our un-gangsterness.

The opening line was inspired by my wife who comes from a rough part of Johannesburg, when we started dating she would literally "have a beer and I would have a milkshake" she can also fight better than me.

Rock music and gangster rap was birthed by people going against societal norms and what was expected of them. In today's world where just about everyone is trying to escape the boredom of desk job life by being inebriated, high or a World of Warcraft character and where rockstars are expected to constantly be snorting cocaine off of strippers, we prefer the enjoyment of life, tea and pancakes which in the end goes against what is normal and expected today.

Former NIRVANA Bassist Defends DAVE GROHL

Nov. 18, 2011

According to The Pulse Of Radio. former NIRVANA bassist Krist Novoselic posted a series of tweets this week in which he defended FOO FIGHTERS frontman and ex-NIRVANA drummer Dave Grohl after Courtney Love blasted Grohl onstage at a festival in Brazil last weekend. Love went off after spotting a fan at the show waving a photo of her late husband, NIRVANA's Kurt Cobain, launching a tirade in which she essentially insinuated that Grohl was getting a share of NIRVANA royalties that he was not entitled to.

Novoselic waded in on Wednesday (November 16), saying in one tweet, "Q: Why do Foo Fighters pack arenas? A: Because they ROCK!!!!!!!" He followed up with another tweet, saying, "David Eric Grohl = Talent + Focus + Hard Work #Ilove you."

Novoselic told The Pulse Of Radio a while back that he's got a philosophical perspective on who ultimately "owns" NIRVANA's music. "In a hundred years, I don't know who is going to own NIRVANA. I'm not going to own it. I'll be dead and gone. You know what I mean? But I was part of it, and I'm proud of it. That's all I can really say."

Novoselic and Grohl have remained friends ever since Cobain's death ended NIRVANA in 1994, and Novoselic makes a guest appearance on the latest FOO FIGHTERS album, "Wasting Light".

Several years ago, the pair battled with Love over control of the marketing of NIRVANA's catalog. Their differences were eventually settled.

Grohl and FOO FIGHTERS just completed a North American tour in support of "Wasting Light" and heads to Australia later this month.

Courtney Love defended her onstage rant against Grohl in an interview with a Brazilian news network, saying that she and her estranged daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, "own" NIRVANA, adding, "Dave makes $5 million a show, he doesn't need the money . . . It pisses me off that my mother-in-law doesn't have a front door in the winter, okay? Her boiler doesn't work, and Dave bought an Aston Martin last week."

Van Halen Latest

Captured at an undisclosed venue in Los Angeles, are (L-R) Alex Van Halen; Wolfgang Van Halen; Eddie Van Halen; Jimmy Iovine, Chairman, Interscope Geffen A&M Records; Irving Azoff, Executive Chairman of Live Nation Entertainment and Chairman and CEO of the Front Line Management Group; Steve Berman, Vice Chairman, Interscope Geffen A&M Records; David Lee Roth; and Jim Urie, President and CEO, Universal Music Group Distribution.

So there you have it folks...the first new Van Halen picture since 2008....taken Monday at The Roxy club in LA, whilst shooting a video for the first single from their upcoming new studio album due early next year. I had mentioned previously that a source told me that the band also filmed out door footage about 3 weeks ago. Hopefully we'll be seeing that clip sooner rather than later.

In related news...a little more information from my source connected to Columbia Records. The told me that manager Irving Azzoff handles the Van Halen's, while David Lee Roth continues to retain his own independent management. Azoff and Columbia had agreed on terms, but DLR met with Columbia and went back with his manager and said he wanted "something in LA, something hip, somehting that was "cool" do a video", whch apparently he felt wasn't being presented by Columbia. DLR won, Azzoff went with the Van Halen's who agreed with DLR.

The only text included with today's picture release was "Want to know why? Stay tuned..." So I guess that official announcement is finally in the pipeline.

Finally, I have been searching for an update on the rumored Grammy Announcement Concert appearance by the band November 30 - as of this week - that appearance is ON.

Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


Rihanna Talk That Talk Full Album Stream
Rihanna's fans are eager to hear her new album, Talk That Talk, and have succeeded in unlocking a full album stream.

According to Roc Nation, fans are now able to hear the full stream of "Talk that Talk: on Rihanna's Facebook page.

The album is set to hit stores next Tuesday, November 21st, but you can get the advance listen right here!



RZN Releases Old Dirty Bastard Tribute Song
Wu Tang Clan's RZA has teamed up with Justin Nozuka, Kobra Khan and James Black to create the song "Gone."

The track s a tribute to his friend and former Wu Tang Clan member, Old Dirty Bastard. ODB passed away seven years ago on November 13th, two days before his 36th birthday. He would have been 43 on Thursday.

The tribute is RZA's hip hop version of "How Do I Say Good Bye." The song also goes out in honor of the life and loss of Heavy D, Joe Fraizer, the fallen US troops and all hip hop legends who are no longer with us. Check it out here.



Alleged Ashton Kutcher Mistress Speaks Out on Demi Divorce
(TMZ) Ashton Kutcher's alleged mistress -- the FIRST alleged mistress -- claims she feels "vindicated" by Demi Moore's divorce statement ... telling TMZ she hopes people will finally believe her story about sleeping with Ashton.

TMZ spoke with Brittney Jones -- who claimed she got busy with Kutcher in 2010 after meeting the guy at a bowling alley. Jones' credibility was called into question when she capitalized on her sudden fame by releasing a sex tape .... which did NOT feature Ashton.

Ashton's lawyer released a statement at the time Brittney was in the headlines, insinuating her story was a lie ... but not entirely denying

Now, Jones tells TMZ ... "Although divorce is often sad I do feel somewhat vindicated."

She adds, "For so long people have thought that I was dishonest or just making up my passionate nights with Ashton, when in fact I was being used."

"Ashton told me that both he and Demi had an 'open relationship' and that he was not in fact cheating. Now I can tell all the facts about how Ashton really was, and hopefully people will believe my side of the story."

Still, Jones says, "I feel for Demi very much and wish her nothing but the best during this hard time." more on this story



Selena Gomez Alleged Stalker Placed On Psychiatric Hold
(TMZ) Thomas Brodnicki -- Selena Gomez' alleged stalker who was freed from jail Wed night -- is no longer a free man, because we've learned he's just been placed on a 5150 psychiatric hold in what has become a desperate attempt to keep him away from the singer.

We just shot video of Brodnicki being taken away in handcuffs ... law enforcement sources tell us he's being taken to a hospital for mental evaluation.

As we first reported ... cops believe Brodnicki poses a real danger to Selena Gomez. Detectives say Brodnicki told them he's had discussions with God about killing Gomez. Brodnicki denies making that statement.

Brodnicki ominously told us ... the only thing he wants to touch is Selena.

As we reported ... law enforcement sources tell us they want to place Brodnicki in a conservatorship, and then ship him back to mental health officials in Illinois where he resides -- far away from Selena. more on this story



Justin Bieber Not Backing Down Against Baby Accuser
(TMZ) If Mariah Yeater thinks she's dodged the Justin Bieber lawsuit bullet by dismissing her paternity lawsuit, she needs to do some re-thinking.

TMZ broke the story, Yeater dismissed the suit last Thursday, after Justin and his team made it clear ... they were going to sue Yeater and her lawyers for filing a malicious claim.

Despite the fact that Yeater's claim has now been dismissed and the 2 lawyers who filed it have quit, Justin is not backing down from his threat.

The singer's publicist, Matthew Hiltzik, tells TMZ, "We intend to still hold them accountable."

As we first reported, Justin and his team wanted to go after Yeater and the lawyers to set an example that people who file baseless claims against celebs do so at their own peril. more on this story



Ryan Seacrest Vs Reality Star
(TMZ) Ryan Seacrest is being sued by a woman who claims she was "humiliated" in a taping of the new reality show he's producing called "Shahs of Sunset" ... insisting she was "forced against her will" to play the role of the "bad girl."

The show is being hailed as the "Persian Jersey Shore" -- featuring a bunch of young, rich Persians galavanting around Los Angeles.

But according to a new lawsuit, filed by a woman named Kathy Salem, the show is just as insane and violent as every other reality show in TV ... a lesson she claims she learned at a fancy Hollywood party back in July.

Salem claims she signed a waiver before entering the shindig and understood she would appear on the show ... but "she did not understand that she might be blind sided and forced against her will to play a demeaning and humiliating role."

Salem claims when she was inside the party, she was confronted by the stars of the show -- who began to bully her and become "verbally abusive" because she was talking to a man who was allegedly engaged.

Salem claims things escalated quickly -- and she was attacked by multiple people -- one of whom tried to rip her top off and another who threw a cup of water in her face.

Salem claims the show is set to air in February -- but she wants a judge to force Ryan to pull any footage in which she appears.

Salem is suing Seacrest, his production company and Bravo -- demanding at least $100,000 in damages.

Calls to Seacrest's people have not been returned. more on this story



Natalie Wood Homicide Investigation Reopened
(TMZ) Natalie Wood's death has been reopened as a homicide investigation, primarily because of a book written by the captain of the boat where Natalie Wood spent her last minutes ... a book suggesting foul play ... this according to sources close to the investigation.

We've learned Marti Rulli -- who co-authored the book -- has been in regular touch with the L.A. County Sheriff's Dept. over the last few months. She has given Sheriff's investigators documents supporting material in her book, and we're told the Sheriff is so impressed he has assigned 2 full-time homicide detectives to the case.

In the book -- "Goodbye Natalie, Goodbye Splendour" -- Rulli and Splendour Captain Dennis Davern write about the night Natalie drowned. They say before Natalie disappeared from the boat, she was drinking and taking Quaaludes with her husband, Robert Wagner and actor Christopher Walken.

According to the book, Wagner became enraged when he saw Wood and Walken speaking, and smashed a wine bottle, yelling at Walken, "What do you want to do, f**k my wife? Is that what you want?"

At that point, Walken returned to his cabin and Natalie and Robert went to their state room. According to the Captain, he heard a loud argument between the couple and thumping sounds, and eventually silence.

Later that evening, the Captain went to the deck and was told by Wagner, "Natalie is missing."

The book claims Wagner refused to let the Captain call the Coast Guard.

Wagner told the Capt. the dinghy was gone, along with Natalie, but some doubted that because she was deathly afraid of dark water.

The death was ruled an accident, but Rulli was like a pit bull since the book was written in 2008.

We're told the homicide investigators have already traveled to Catalina, as well as New Jersey to interview Rulli. They've also gone to Augustine, Florida to interview the Captain, and they're going to Hawaii to look at the Splendour. more on this story



Gorillaz Recording New Shoe Song
(Gibson) Thanks to a massive shoe company campaign, the guys of Gorillaz are back together and in the process of recording a new song.

The famed virtual hip-hop group have announced that they are working on a new track to release in February as part of the Converse shoe company's "Three Artists. One Song," series. Other musicians who have lent their skills to the campaign include Soulja Boy, Andrew W.K. and Matt & Kim.

The song's arrival will correspond with the release of a fresh collection of Converse shoes, which are being marketed in association with Gorillaz. The snazzy shoes feature Gorillaz-themed prints, crafted by the band's design go-to, Jamie Hewlett. The Gorillaz Chuck Taylor All Star collection, which Converse plans to roll out in February, will run at a suggested retail price of $60 and come in four different styles. more on this story



Katy Perry's California Dreams Outfit Raises Money for Red Cross
(popmusiclife) Katy Perry has raised more than $8,000 for charity by selling off a stage outfit from her 2011 California Dreams world tour.

KGET-TV Bakersfield reports Perry raided her closet for international aid organization Red Cross and offered up a glittery red bodice encrusted with Swarovski crystals teamed with a billowing pink skirt for auction.

She also agreed to meet the winning bidder backstage at her gig this weekend in Oakland, California to personally hand over the outfit. more on this story



Asher Monroe Scores Huge YouTube Hit
(popmusiclife) Asher Monroe has taken YouTube by storm with the release of his new music video for the track "Like I Do," creating a fan frenzy with over 1.5 million views since its debut on November 7.

With over 700,000 views in the first 24 hours alone, the buzz worthy video also landed on the YouTube homepage and went on to score "most viewed" status on the YouTube charts on November 9.

The epic song is currently available for download on iTunes and gives fans an introduction to Monroe's upcoming solo debut. "All of my music is written straight from the heart, so I hope people really feel something when they hear my songs," says Monroe. "I couldn't be more excited that people all over the world are embracing 'Like I Do,' and I can't wait to get more of my new music out there." Read more and check out the video here.



The Voice's Dia Frampton Releases First Video
(popmusiclife) The first video from Dia Frampton is out. Dia was the runner up on the first US season of The Voice, a reality singing contest based on The Voice Of Holland.

The US program featured singers selected, and mentored by, the show's judges: Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton.

Frampton was guided by Shelton and, throughout the series, she displayed a unique voice and vocal style that set her apart from many in the TV competition.

Despite Javier Colon taking first prize, it was Dia's original tune, "Inventing Shadows," that quickly topped the iTunes chart around the series finale in June. Read more and watch the video here.



First Aid Kit Spring Tour
(CCP) First Aid Kit have announced the first dates of their spring North American headlining tour.

Sisters Klara and Johanna Söderberg will launch the tour on March 28th at Webster Hall in New York, NY and play their way into Canada and westward through an April 28th show at Slim's in San Francisco, CA.

The tour announcement comes on the heels of two sold-out US headlining shows this month - last night at New York's Mercury Lounge and last week at Los Angeles' Troubadour - and as they wind down dates supporting Lykke Li, for whom they also supplied backing vocals on a Late Show with David Letterman performance. more on this story



Katt Williams Shoplifting Accusation Unfounded
(TMZ) Katt Williams is no thief ... so say Ohio police who tell TMZ he and his crew were wrongly accused of having sticky fingers at a Best Buy in Ohio yesterday.

A rep for the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department tells TMZ ... Katt and his posse, which included a 22-year-old female friend, were questioned by police after store security reported they saw the woman pocketing some stuff.

Cops say officers conducted a brief investigation -- which proved the accusations were unfounded and the woman was merely "putting her own property into her purse."

But during the questioning, cops say they found "a small amount of marijuana when she permitted them to look in her purse" -- so she was cited for misdemeanor pot possession.

Cops add, "The entire group were cooperative and nothing else occurred." more on this story



Singled Out: Novi's Blackbirds
Today Novi tells us about "Blackbirds" from her brand new album "Now I'm Here". Here is the story:

I was up in my bedroom, having an eventful Friday evening doodling around on garage band and drinking red wine.

I couldn't help but feel this overwhelming sense of nostalgia for my Hometown Ashland, Oregon. I missed the simplicity of life, the ease of just being so unobligated, the bonfires and the woods and all the free spirits. I randomly started singing "I seen blackbirds F*****', on the side of the road." I was tickled at my own randomness and realized I had a hook.

My roomate was downstairs with some gals, and I heard them all start to laugh, as I sang. It sort of fueled the fire, and the lyrics just poured out. I laughed my way through it. The whole thing, took about 20 minutes. I sent it to my producer, totally as a joke, and he thought it was hilarious. Then he woke up singing the hook, and called me right away. I was amazed that he genuinely wanted to put some production behind it. Bewildered as I was, something did feel very right about it. It spawned a whole new realm of pizzazz in my songwriting and music in general. I want to write songs that get a rise out of people, in one way or another, the avenues of creation are endless. There are just so many ways to deliver a message, and Humor is by far my favorite one. Silly as it is, may be the most honest song I've ever written...