Today's Day In Rock

No More Big 4 Show For Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax?
Slayer guitarist Kerry King has bad news for fans hoping for more Big Four shows (e.g. Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax).
"If you look at how much work went into making it all happen in the first place, then I really doubt we can do the same thing again," King said according to Classic Rock. "You had four headlining bands touring together and that takes so much organizing."

"I know there are some parts where they're angry not to have gotten the chance to see it. The Bay Area will probably never forgive us. And we could go on and on doing it for ages," he adds. "But I honestly doubt we can get our schedules to coincide like that again."


U2 and Bon Jovi Score Top Tours of 2011
(Gibson) Because it was already revealed as the highest-grossing tour of all time, it's no shock that U2's 360 Tour was 2011's top trek.

Spin reports that Bono and the boys landed at #1 – topping runners-up Bon Jovi by more than $100 million.

U2 played to approximately 2.8 million people in the U.S. and Africa during the year, raking in $293 million. In comparison, Bon Jovi performed before 1.8 million folks and took home $192 million. Other acts in the Top 5 include Take That's reunion tour, Roger Waters' Wall tour and Taylor Swift's trek.




Axl Not Interested in Guns N' Roses Reunion
(hennemusic) While many fans are vocal about wanting a reunion of the original Guns N' Roses lineup, Axl is pretty clear about his thoughts on trying to turn back the clock – on any era of the band in a new interview with the Los Angeles Times. "Really, you can get guys from the 'Illusion' thing, but the only thing that would make it would be Duff and Slash, really," says Axl. "It's nothing against Izzy [Stradlin] and it's nothing against Steven [Adler], or anything like that. Steven may want it, but these guys I'm working with right now, they work really hard and it's hard work. I've toured with the other guys and I've also seen what they've done since, and I just know the difficulties."

"I don't have an excitement to work with people that joined in the 'Illusion' time," he continues. "There's behind the scenes that was really, really difficult there with different ones. So it's not really even a full reunion."

"And these guys have been here a long time, whether the public knows it or not, because we haven't done the media like that," the singer explains. "Tommy [Stinson]'s been on 14 years, Richard's [Fortus] going on 11. That's as long as Duff was in the band. Chris [Pitman] has been in going on 11, Dizzy [Reed]'s on since 'Illusion,' Frank [Ferrer]'s going on six, and so's [Ron] Bumble[foot] [Thal]. These guys have been here. And DJ [Ashba]'s going on three." more on this story

Motley Crue Movie Coming
(hennemusic) On the heels of news from Vince Neil that the singer is considering leaving Motley Crue after their Las Vegas residency in February, comes word from bassist Nikki Sixx that the Vegas run is "the beginning of what will be the biggest probably four to five years of the band's career."

"We're negotiating with a couple of other extremely huge bands on doing a co-headline tour, something that's never happened before. There's new music in the future," Sixx tells Rolling Stone.

"The other thing to look at is the wheels are in motion for getting the Mötley Crüe movie made now," says Nikki. "We finally got everything in order the way it needs to be done, and that's gonna happen."

What about retirement?

Rush Finish Recording New Album
(Gibson) Rush's sound engineer Rich Chycki has suggested on Twitter that the legendary Canadian trio has "wrapped up" the recording of forthcoming album Clockwork Angels.

Chycki's Tweet said: "2 months at Revolution Studio in Toronto. Thanks for the hospitality guys! #wrapped"

Clockwork Angels has been a long project for Rush. In August 2010, guitarist Alex Lifeson remarked that an additional three songs were almost complete and that the album was turning out to be very musically diverse. In particular, Lifeson refers to the nearly finished title track "Clockwork Angels" as an "epic song" and a "multi-parted piece." more on this story



Seether Plan To Play Almost 300 Shows in 2012
(Banana 101.5) Having already played 150 gigs in support of their new album 'Holding On To Strings Better Left To Fray,' you'd think Seether would be ready to relax a bit in 2012. A recent interview revealed that not only will they not be taking it easy, they'll play about 300 shows in the new year — that means they don't even get most weekends off!

The members of Seether understand the importance of connecting with their fans in person — for that reason they will be doing somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 shows in 2012. Frontman Shaun Morgan recently explained the insane touring plan to the Cape Times:

"We're looking forward to doing a proper national tour next year. It's important to play as many cities as possible – so that's what we'll do. We're truly blessed to have a career in music. We've toured with bands way bigger than we are that no longer exist. So, yes, we're humble and very aware that we're as big or as small as our fans dictate." more on this story

Pearl Jam Working On Album Number Ten
(Banana 101.5) Among the more noteworthy releases coming our way in 2012 is the tenth studio album from Seattle rock giants Pearl Jam. After spending much of the year reflecting on their 20-year run, the rock vets aim to finish their next record by spring 2012.

You never know what you're going to get when Pearl Jam releases a new record, which is one of the things we love about the band. Whether it's an album filled with more experimental tracks like 'No Code' or 'Binaural' or straight ahead rock like 'Ten' or 'Pearl Jam,' the band has proven that they are one of the most versatile acts in rock music today. Being that their next album will make number ten — a number that holds much significance to the band and it's fans — we're wondering whether we will get a nostalgic PJ sound or something entirely new.

Pearl Jam's manager has said that they are anxious to get the new songs out to people and bassist Jeff Ament said they were about halfway done months ago — so if you do the math the album is about done, right? Wrong. Drummer Matt Cameron is now splitting time between PJ and Soundgarden and the band has been traveling to Los Angeles to record — so the process is taking a little longer this time through. Last month guitarist Mike McCready gave a progress report to the Gazeta De Povo: "In this moment we are in the process of composing an album, we have seven songs … and we'll work on the rest of them next year in March. This, no doubt, will appease many Pearl Jam enthusiasts out there." more on this story

Michael Schenker Hitting The Road With Robin McAuley
Guitar legend Michael Schenker is once again teaming with singer Robin McAuley. This time they are hitting the road together.

Schenker camp announced yesterday that the guitar shredder will hit the road for a North American tour next year. The tour kicks off on February 15th in San Francisco, Ca at Mezzanine and wraps March 24th in San Juan Capistrano, Ca at The Coach House.

Buried in the announcement was this line "[Schenker] will now be touring with Robin McAuley" in support of his latest studio album "Temple of Rock". The statement is pretty vague so it is unclear if Robin will be performing with Michael or will be performing separately. more on this story

Lost Captain Beefheart Album Set For Release
(Gibson) A supposedly "lost" album from the avant-garde musician Captain Beefheart (who passed away just over a year ago from multiple sclerosis) will be released in January.

NME.com reports that Bat Chain Puller, produced by Frank Zappa in 1976, will finally hit the stores on January 15, which would have been Don Van Vliet's (Beefheart's real name) 71st birthday.

The album will feature all 12 original album tracks as well as three bonus songs. more on this story



Allman Brothers Band To Receive Lifetime Achievement Grammy
(hennemusic) The Allman Brothers Band are among the artists to be honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards at the Grammys in February.

On Wednesday, The Recording Academy announced its 2012 Special Merit Awards recipients. This year's Lifetime Achievement Award recipients are Allman Brothers Band, Glen Campbell, Antonio Carlos Jobim, George Jones, the Memphis Horns, Diana Ross, and Gil Scott-Heron; this year's Trustees Award honorees are Dave Bartholomew, Steve Jobs and Rudy Van Gelder; and Celemony and Roger Nichols are this year's Technical Grammy Award honorees.

As pioneers of Southern rock, the Allman Brothers Band created a unique sound, blending elements of blues, country, jazz and rock. Known for their outstanding improvisational and jam-style shows, the band's breakthrough album, 1971's "At Fillmore East," is a definitive live concert recording. The band has achieved artistic and commercial success with hits such as "Whipping Post," "Ramblin' Man" and "Jessica," the latter having earned them a 1995 Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance. In 1995 the group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. more on this story

Fuel, Bret Michaels, Darius Rucker To Rock Super Bowl Village
Fuel, Bret Michaels, Darius Rucker, Big Head Todd and the Monsters are headed to Indianapolis, Indiana for the big game and are among the acts scheduled to perform at the city's Super Bowl Village. They sent over these details along with the initial artist lineup:

Activities and events within the three-block area along Georgia Street in Indianapolis will become the Super Bowl Village.

The Super Bowl Village is a free, family-friendly fan gathering spot that will be open January 27, 2012 through February 5, 2012. more on this story

Dillinger Escape Plan Selling Limited Edition Shirt Today Only
(Monolith) Dillinger Escape Plan guitarist Ben Weinman announced via a blog entry entitled "Dear Santa, if you give me a Dillinger Escape Plan shirt I will give you the Antidote to the poison I put in your milk.", that the band will be releasing a limited edition 'Gold Teeth On A Bum' shirt online, just in time for the holidays.

The limited time offer, which will be made available for 24 hours only, will launch via the bands website www.dillingerescapeplan.org beginning at 12PM EST/9AM PST today, Thursday, December 22nd with a quarter of the proceeds going to a charity chosen by those who make a purchase.

In related news, Dillinger Escape Plan, who have begun writing new material for what will be the bands fifth studio album and follow-up to 2010's Option Paralysis (Party Smasher Inc./Season of Mist), will take a break from the process in order to rejoin their beloved tour mates- Mastodon and Red Fang on a string of UK dates in February, followed by a stop down under for Australia's annual Soundwave Festival, where the band will join a lineup of talent featuring the likes of Meshuggah, System of a Down, Slipknot, Marilyn Manson and Cro-Mags, among many others. more on this story

Pete Townshend's Post Tommy Rock Opera Inspires New Release
(Gibson) Shortly after The Who conceived, produced and recorded their rock opera Tommy, Pete Townshend started work on a follow-up "sci-fi rock opera." Parts of Townshend's Lifehouse project have occasionally seen the light of day, but he has now produced a new twist on the tale. London-based composer and mathematician Lawrence Ball's forthcoming double CD-set Method Music was not only produced by Townshend, it was also the direct outcome of Townshend's ongoing Lifehouse project.

Ball says: "Method Music evolved from Pete Townshend's question to me about generating unique pieces of music from the input of personal characteristics as data, a question related closely to his ongoing project Lifehouse. I wanted to see what the music could sound like prior to designing the proposed system of portraiture, and I created the tracks on Disc One: Imaginary Sitters, as a touchstone towards designing the software which would eventually execute the task itself."

Townshend's original Lifehouse story was set in a futuristic world where rock 'n' roll no longer exists – but a secret concert is staged where audience members enter their personal characteristics into a computer grid. A unique piece of music – based on the audience member's personal data – would then be generated. more on this story



Exhumed First U.S. Show In Years Available For Free Download
NPR is offering Exhumed fans a stream and download of the first U.S. show in over six years which took place at the 2011 edition of the Maryland Deathfest.

Said vocalist/guitarist Matt Harvey says, "2011 has been a great year for the band. We've had a killer time scraping off the rust on the gore metal machine and getting back on the road and partying with necromaniacs all over the place. It's amazing how many people have enjoyed our racket and have actually said nice things about our record -- sometimes even in public! We have a lot of sh*t planned for next year and we're chomping at the bit to continue subjecting the universe to more of our god awful noise! See you on the road...or at the bar. Play fast or die, dudes. Cheers!" Grab the stream and download here.

Exhumed will be showering Brazil with their infernal live rituals this Winter with Aborted. This will mark the band's first time ever in the country. more on this story

The Eagles InTheStudio For Christmas Week
(Sub) Syndicated radio show InTheStudio will spend Christmas week with the Eagles celebrating the 35th anniversary of their chart topping 70s classic Hotel California.

Show producer and host Redbeard revisits his conversations with Glenn Frey, Don Henley and Joe Walsh about how the "stories of the dark side of fame ..." would find their way onto the 1976 Grammy Award winning Record of the Year. In an early ʻ90s interview with Redbeard, Glenn Frey recalls the period of time leading up to Hotel California.

"I think Henley and I were on a roll. I felt like any time, any day, I could sit down at the piano or pick up the guitar and start playing and he would start making up some lyrics or start singing some melodies. We had a lot going for us at the time and we felt it was time to sorta do another concept album, not a cowboy concept album(like Desperado), but rather the dark side of success, the underbelly of Hollywood and LA and all that stuff. I think, in-fact somebody said, 'dark songs from paradise' was how they described Hotel California. I think that's a pretty good description."InTheStudio is syndicated on over 50 radio stations throughout North America.

EAGLES -Hotel Callifornia/ InTheStudio show will air Christmas week.


High On Fire Begin Recording New Album
High On Fire have entered GodCity Studios in Salem, Massachusetts' to begin recording their new album.

The group is collaborating with producer and Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou on the new effort; the band's sixth studio recording and follow up to 2010's Snakes for the Divine.

"We are really stoked about recording this album," said bassist Jeff. "The new songs are turning out absolutely punishing; there are some seriously sledgehammer riffs on this one! Working with Kurt has been awesome as well. He's super easy to work with and is full of good ideas. The sounds that the guy gets are ridiculous and raw as f*ck but also clear and HUGE. I think this album will capture the essence of the band really well. It's still early in the process, but so far it's sounding amazing." more on this story

Ministry To Relapse in March
The recently reunited Ministry have inked a deal with AFM Records who will release the band's new album "Relapse" in March of 2012.

Prior to the album, MINISTRY will release a digital single, entitled "99%" on December 23rd, 2011 via the band's iTunes store.

Currently, Ministry's Al Jourgensen is finalizing the last mixes on the new material. Commented Jourgensen on the signing: "Our 13th Planet Record releases have been distributed in Europe via AFM through our partner Soulfood Music in Germany for several years now, and we have established a solid business relationship, so it made perfect sense to take the next step and have AFM Records come on board and be involved with the new Ministry release for worldwide and digital distribution. I'm pretty psyched about the collaboration, based on the response and enthusiasm I've received from AFM so far…"

Why Scott Weiland Loves Christmas
(hennemusic) Scott Weiland is feeling the spirit of the holidays. The Stone Temple Pilots frontman recently released his Christmas album, "The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year," which features Xmas standards in a variety of styles, including big band swing, orchestrated ballads, reggae, bossa nova and more.

In a new interview with CNN, Weiland explains his genuine love of the holiday season. "I looked forward to it from, probably, the first day of school, every year until Christmas Day," says Scott. "A lot of magical things happen at Christmas."

"I've been given so much, I've been given so many gifts [in life]," Weiland continues, "I hope people are able to find some form of peace, and some form of love and understanding. If I could ask Santa for something…that's what it would be." Check out video here.

Jolly Giving Away Christmas Song
(Freeman) Jolly have recorded a cover of the holiday classic "The Christmas Song" (commonly referred to as "Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire").

In the spirit of the season the band is offering up a free MP3 download of the track from their official website here.

The band's debut album on InsideOut Music, "The Audio Guide To Happiness (Part 1)," is one of the most acclaimed progressive rock releases of 2011. more on this story

Scott Lucas & the Married Men To Broadcast Tonight's Show on Christmas Eve
(JMM) Scott Lucas & the Married Men will record their performance at the Hideout in Chicago tonight, December 22nd and broadcast it as an hour-long special -- The 2nd Annual Hideout Holiday Music Hour -- from their website www.scottlucasandthemarriedmen.com, beginning at 4p.m. on Christmas Eve. It will run repeatedly on the site for a limited time.

The band is aiming to emulate "A Prairie Home Companion" with the evening's set and will structure the program as an olde tyme radio variety show, complete with an MC, surprise guests and faux sponsors. Teen indie pop quartet Purple Apple will join the Married Men for a couple of songs.

Lucas, who is best known as the singer/guitarist for the two-man, Chicago rock band Local H, promises plenty of Christmas classics, like "Feliz Navidad," Mr. Grinch" and "Christmas" from the Who's Tommy. Lucas and his six-piece backing band, the Married Men -- a collective which includes violin, organ and accordion -- will also perform original songs from their forthcoming second album, tentatively titled Blood Half Moon, and Married Men staples, drawn from their first two releases: George Lassos the Moon and The Absolute Beginners EP. more on this story

Fallstaf Giving Away New Single
Fallstaf are offering their latest single "Eulogy" for free download from their recently released debut album "Bastard Sons of A Pure Breed".

"Bastard Sons of A Pure Breed" was self-produced by Fallstaf, and mixed and mastered by Kevin Jardine (Slaves on Dope) of Uplift Studios and is the follow up their 2009 EP "The Hitman Plays Trombone".

In addition to the 2011 year coming to an end, Fallstaf have been mentioned on Decibel Magazine's Top 5 Non-Metal Instruments on a 2011 Album category for their trombone hitman. Download the free track here.

More Than 100 Artists For The 12th Annual Light Of Day Concert Series
Roots rocker David Bromberg and more than 100 artists are set to perform at 16 different events for the 12th Annual Light Of Day Concert Series which runs January 12-16, 2012.

The following info was sent over Roots music legend David Bromberg will be among the performers at Paramount Theatre show on Jan. 14, 2011, that serves as the centerpiece for the 12th annual Light of Day concert series, now expanded to four-day weekend of activities in Asbury Park, NJ.

The Light of Day series of concerts, which also includes performances in Canada and several countries in Europe, raises money for the ongoing fight against Parkinson's disease by supporting research into more effective treatments and a cure for people who suffer from Parkinson's and other degenerative neuromuscular disorders. more on this story

Paul McCartney Brings Liverpool Rivals Together
(Gibson) Paul McCartney may be a longstanding Everton soccer fan (Liverpool has two premier league soccer teams – Liverpool FC and Everton FC) and he made sure to invite players from both to his Liverpool concert on December 20.

The Daily Express says McCartney is close to Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish, saying before the show, "I've become friends with Kenny Dalglish – he came to one of the first Wings gigs and really supported us. One time he brought the whole Liverpool team with him to a gig.

"I've got a ticket for him if he wants it. In fact the whole Liverpool team can come if they want to – and the Everton team, too." more on this story



Singled Out: Sarah Fimm's Everything Becomes Whole
We pleased that Sarah Fimm once again joins us for Singled Out! Today she tells us about the new video her song "Everything Becomes Whole". Here is the story:

Instead of talking about what inspired me to write this song, I'd like to talk about what inspired the theme for the video, which I feel a much deeper connection with.

Initially, when Erik (my go-to music video director and graphic designer extraordinaire of NYC's Newspeak) and I began to discuss the next video we were going to create, there was no reason to think that this was where we would end up. However, as we spoke more about the plotline, everything began to emulate real life accounts of the survivors of human trafficking.

After more research and becoming graphically acquainted with the realities of human slavery, I had a conversation with a man named Austin. He works with an organization called IJM (International Justice Mission). I was disturbed to learn that his average day is building the next undercover operation that might help to free another human being from a life of forced prostitution and slavery. Shortly after speaking with Austin, my brother coincidentally sent me a documentary called 'The Day My God Died'. It just so happened that the actual rescues of these women were shown, along with Gary Haugen who founded IJM. They depicted the actual rescue of several girls, and the intricate system of corruption behind their imprisonment. In the film, you are also given a glimpse at how these girls often believe they do not want to leave. Many survivors lose their lives inside these brothels. Many of the girls abducted and raped more than 20 times a day are under 15 years old.

These stories, images, and videos are what essentially helped to shape the video for "Everything Becomes Whole". The dark and haunting imagery is a direct metaphor for the darkness and turmoil that is inflicted on the lives of these girls around the world; the mangled dolls were meant to symbolize these girls' lives that have been turned upside down; and finally, the depiction of the male and female relationship that has gone entirely wrong, shows just how much control men have over these girls.

In America, we worry if our iPhone doesn't momentarily retrieve our mail. We worry that the particular Christmas gift our children want, will be sold out at the store before we can get there. I am not saying that we are evil for doing so, but we are certainly absent-minded and foolish if we do not remember that our freedom as individuals is something never to be taken for granted.

With the help of a few gifted people, the idea to create the Inspire Movement has been realized. It was clear that in order for people to want to look at something disturbing, you have to imbue the subject matter with music and art. Thus, I created a website with content, videos, music, stories, and more, where I've called upon all artists and those who care about this subject to create their own art and post it all over the web. The hope is the material shared all over the web will raise awareness for the atrocities of this issue.

We can always post celebrity gossip or the mistakes of asinine politicians, giving them more attention than they deserve. However, in the real world, the ones who need our attention are the ones who have no one to speak for them. No politician is going to speak for them. We as artists have the power. I believe that the voice of ar, and the power of music will be the saving grace of this planet, if there is to be one.

The goal of the Inspire Movement is to create a visible presence of this global problem, so it will be seen and felt for what it is, never forgotten, and never looked upon as something we cannot change.

To find out ways you can make a difference, check out these two great organizations and their tireless work to break the cycle of violence:

The Inspire Movement - http://www.sarahfimm.com/inspire

The International Justice Mission - Check them out at ijm.org, like them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter @IJMHQ.

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence -- Check them out at ncadv.org, like them on Facebook, or follow them Twitter @NCADV.

TIM 'RIPPER' OWENS, JOHN 5, GLENN HUGHES, RUDY SARZO Remember DIMEBAG At 'Dimebash' Dec. 21, 2011

The latest episode of comedian Jim Florentine's "Comedy Metal Midgets" podcast features interview Jim conducted with Tim "Ripper" Owens (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH, DIO DISCIPLES), John 5 (ROB ZOMBIE, MARILYN MANSON), Rudy Sarzo (DIO, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, QUIET RIOT, WHITESNAKE, OZZY OSBOURNE) and Glenn Hughes (BLACK SABBATH, DEEP PURPLE, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION) at this year's Dimebash on December 14 at the Key Club in Hollywood, California.






Florentine is a stand-up comedian, actor, writer, voice artist, and performer, who is currently co-hosting VH1 Classic's hit heavy metal talk show series "That Metal Show" alongside Eddie Trunk and now Metal Blade labelmate Don Jamieson.

Florentine is best known for his work on Comedy Central's show "Crank Yankers" where he performed the voice of Special Ed, a mentally challenged teenager, and Bobby Fletcher, a despicable, alcoholic slob who is the older cousin of Ed. Florentine recently opened up the "American Carnage" tour for ANTHRAX, MEGADETH, and SLAYER in arenas across the country.

Members of BLACK SABBATH, DISTURBED, ALICE IN CHAINS, RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES and MACHINE HEAD helped celebrate the life and music of "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott (PANTERA, DAMAGEPLAN) as part of this year's Dimebash.

Check out photos of this year's Dimebash from:

* Stephanie Cabral On Facebook
* Ron Lyon On Facebook

All proceeds from the concert went to Wendy Dio's charity Stand Up And Shout, which raises money for cancer research; her husband, Ronnie James Dio, died of stomach cancer in May 2010.

"Hang out, jam a bunch of songs with my friends, have some drinks and have a good time — which is what Dime would want everyone to get out of this," Ian told SPIN magazine about the concert. "That's what Darrell was about."

ALICE IN CHAINS drummer Sean Kinney — whose bandmate Jerry Cantrell performed a hearfelt "Wish You Were Here" at this year's Dimebash — told SPIN he was horrified by Dimebag's murder onstage by a gunman in 2004. "We were very good friends with those guys," he said. "We came up the same time. Jerry's been friends with those guys from way back in the '80s. It's just a horrible disgusting tragedy."

RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE guitarist Tom Morello, who first met Dimebag backstage at a BLACK SABBATH show in the late-'90s, told SPIN, "[Dimebag] was so positive and jubilant about metal and Jägermeister. Before we exchanged names, he had poured about five shots of some Jäger-toxic concoction down my throat. We exchanged some rock-bro I-love-you-mans, and we had a few more shots."

Regarding his involvement with this year's Dimebash, Morello said, "I'm here to support the charity, but also to rock in honor of [Dio and Dimebag's] memory. The thing that they shared was such a passionate and unapologetic love for hard rock music and for the fans. To rekindle the spirit of their life-force, we're here to rock in their honor tonight."

Fan-filmed video footage of most of the performances at this year's Dimebash can be seen at this location.

The Key Club in Hollywood played host to all-star jams featuring the following musicians:

* Tim "Ripper" Owens (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH, DIO DISCIPLES)
* Geezer Butler (BLACK SABBATH, HEAVEN & HELL)
* Jerry Cantrell (ALICE IN CHAINS)
* David Draiman (DISTURBED)
* Duff McKagan (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES)
* Serj Tankian (SYSTEM OF A DOWN)
* Mike Muir (SUICIDAL TENDENCIES)
* Sebastian Bach (SKID ROW)
* John 5 (ROB ZOMBIE, MARILYN MANSON)
* Scott Ian (ANTHRAX)
* Phil Demmel (MACHINE HEAD)
* Ben Harper
* Chris Howorth (IN THIS MOMENT)
* Tom Morello (RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE)
* Doug Pinnick (KING'S X)
* James Lomenzo (WHITE LION, MEGADETH, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY)
* Ginger Fish (ROB ZOMBIE, MARILYN MANSON)
* Brian Tichy (WHITESNAKE, OZZY OSBOURNE)
* Gene Hoglan (FEAR FACTORY, DETHKLOK, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD)
* Joey Vera (ARMORED SAINT, FATES WARNING)
* Robin McAuley (MSG, SURVIVOR)
* Nick Bowcott (GRIM REAPER)
* Richie Kotzen (MR. BIG, POISON)

The whole shebang was emceed by "That Metal Show"'s Eddie Trunk and his co-horts, Jim Florentine and Don Jamieson. In addition, kicking off the event was KILL DEVIL HILL, the band featuring Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO) on drums, Rex Brown (DOWN, PANTERA) on bass, Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 CYCLE HUM) on guitar and Jason "Dewey" Bragg (PISSING RAZORS) on vocals. Also on deck was DIO DISCIPLES — the new project featuring former DIO members Simon Wright (drums), Craig Goldy (guitar), Scott Warren (keyboards) and Rudy Sarzo alongside singers Tim "Ripper" Owens (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, BEYOND FEAR, JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH) and Toby Jepson (LITTLE ANGELS, GUN) — with a special appearance by Glenn Hughes (BLACK SABBATH, DEEP PURPLE, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION).

McSG HITS THE ROAD AGAIN:

Robin McAuley has put Survivor behind him to return to active duty with Michael Schenker, in the McAuley Schenker Group - set to tour the USA in early 2012. Details and dates are:
Lineup: Michael Schenker (Scorpions, UFO) - guitar; Robin McAuley - lead vocals; Elliot Rubinson (Dean Guitars) - bass; Wayne Findlay - keyboards, guitar; Pete Holmes (Black 'N Blue) - drums.
Tour Dates:
February
15 - San Francisco, CA - Mezzanine
16 - Santa Rosa, CA - The Last Day Saloon
17 - Portland, OR - Dantes (w/ Anvil)
18 - Tacoma, WA - Backstage Live
19 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
20 - Victoria, BC - 9 One 9 Nightclub
21 - Vancouver, BC - Venue Nightclub
23 - Orangevale, CA - The Boardwalk
24 - Corona, CA - Marquee 15
25 - West Hollywood, CA - House Of Blues
26 - San Diego, CA - 4 Th And B Concert Theatre

March
1 - Libertyville, IL - Austins
3 - Detroit, MI - Harpos
4 - Etobicoke, ON - The Rock Pile
5 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's
7 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx
8 - Foxborough, MA - Showcase Live
9 - Asbury Park, NJ - The Stone Pony
10 - New York, NY - The Gramercy Theatre
11 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock
16 - San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live
17 - Dallas, TX - Trees
21 - Tempe, AZ - Club Red
22 - Las Vegas, NV - Vamp'd
23 - Agoura Hills, CA - The Canyon Club
24 - San Juan Capistrano, CA - The Coach House

Today's Day In Pop

Today's Full Report


American Idol's David Archuleta Pausing Career for Church Mission
American Idol star David Archuleta is putting his music career on hold for two year so that he can go on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Archuleta broke the news to fans at a Christmas concert Monday night in Salt Lake City, Utah and reportedly received a standing ovation from the crowd. He released video of the announcement on his website.

In the video he tells fans: "It's not because someone told me that I'm supposed to do it, and not because I no longer want to do music, but because it's the feeling that I've felt I need to do this with my life."


Super Bowl Including Madonna's Half Time Show To Be Streamed Online
(popmusiclife) Music fans all over the globe will be able to watch the 2012 Super Bowl live as it happens, and that includes Madonna's Halftime Show.

The NFL and broadcast partner NBC announced Tuesday that The Super Bowl, Pro Bowl and NBC's wild-card playoff games will be streamed online and on mobile phones for the first time.

The games will be streamed online at NBCSports.com and NFL.com through SNF Extra, which features an HD broadcast, DVR-style controls, additional camera angles, in-game highlights, live statistics and interactive elements. more on this story

Leona Lewis To Perform On X Factor Tomorrow
(RCA) X Factor UK winner Leona Lewis is scheduled to perform on the finale of X Factor US this Thursday, 12/22. She will be performing her hit single "Run."

This week, Leona Lewis released an EP of three of her favorite songs, the title track "Hurt" (as interpreted by Johnny Cash/co-produced by Graham Stack and Matt Furmidge),"Iris" (Goo Goo Dolls), and "Colorblind" (Counting Crows).

Leona has been in the studio finishing her forthcoming third studio album Glassheart, set for release next year. Most recently she has been working with acclaimed British producer Fraser T Smith who has worked with artists such as Adele, Kylie Minogue, Cee-Lo Green, Britney Spears and Ellie Goulding. After working together on songs for the new album they decided to put together an EP to be released for fans while Glassheart is being completed.

Rihanna Teases Fans
(popmusiclife) Rihanna is getting set to release her new video for "You Da One," the next single from her "Talk That Talk" album.

The pop superstar is now giving fans a sneak peak of what they can expect with a behind the scenes look at the London video shoot.

"Talk That Talk" continues to ride high on the US charts, with its first single, "We Found Love," enjoying a 7-week run at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, while the album is #12 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Check out the tease here.

Myspace Release On Demand Music Player That Works On Facebook
The new Myspace Music Player release has been announced and aside from working on rival Facebook, it is said to empower fans to access the world's largest catalog of music online. Here are the official details

The new player is the first to provide free unlimited on-demand listening, lean-back personalized radio mode, improved search functionality, as well as instant sync capabilities that allows people to share the music they've listened to on Myspace with their friends on Facebook.

The player's advanced features reflect Myspace's DNA: promoting and enabling music sharing and discovery. Through unique licensing agreements with Sony, Universal, EMI and Warner (aka The Big Four record labels) and partnerships with 20,000 independent labels, Myspace has unrivaled global rights to more than 42 million songs, boasting a library that is three-times the size of other online catalogs. more on this story

iCARLY iSoundtrack II Coming Next Month
Columbia Records and Nickelodeon have set a January 24th, 2012 release date for iCARLY - iSoundtrack II - Music From And Inspired By The Hit TV Show.

The album features music from the wildly popular TV show starring teen sensation Miranda Cosgrove, as well as tracks inspired by iCarly from today's biggest hitmakers like Katy Perry, Ke$ha and Taio Cruz

iCARLY - iSoundtrack II - Music From And Inspired By The Hit TV Show was executive produced by Dr. Luke (P!nk, Avril Lavigne) and Miranda Cosgrove. more on this story

Brooke Mueller Trying To Block Coverage of Cocaine Case
(TMZ) Brooke Mueller wants her first court appearance in her cocaine case to be a TMZ-free zone ... because they want to make the case really boring so no one will cover it.

Brooke's lawyer has filed legal papers trying to block TMZ from livestreaming her arraignment in Aspen. As you know, Brooke was busted for cocaine possession earlier this month.

According to the legal docs, Brooke's lawyer is arguing that video of the proceeding would "unduly detract from the solemnity, decorum and dignity of the court." Cutting to the chase, Brooke's lawyer says without our camera "this case may become less interesting."

How's this for less interesting -- don't walk around Aspen with 4 grams of cocaine ... allegedly. more on this story

Mormon Church Deny Making Bizarre Million Dollar Demand of Detroit Pistons Owner
(TMZ) Detroit Pistons billionaire owner Tom Gores was harassed at his house Sunday night ... when two unidentified men showed up at his doorstep, demanding over a MILLION bucks for the Mormon Church -- law enforcement sources tell TMZ.

It's a bizarre tale -- we're told Tom was specifically targeted by the duo, which tracked him down at his home in L.A.'s exclusive Mulholland Estates, the same gated community where Charlie Sheen lives.

Law enforcement sources tell us, the men knocked on Tom's door at 10pm Sunday night, insisting he accept a delivery of an unspecified item.

Words were exchanged, but eventually the weirdos took off -- leaving behind a package full of papers, one of which demanded more than a million bucks for the Mormon Church.

As for motive ... unclear -- except that Tom is filthy rich, worth an estimated $2.4 billion. LAPD is investigating.

A rep for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints tells us, "We haven't heard anything about this, but it certainly has nothing to do with us, and it sounds very bizarre." Calls to Tom were not returned. more on this story

Kardashian Sparks Real Estate War
(TMZ) Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom have already wreaked havoc in Dallas, by setting off a war among a number of high-end realtors who are vying for their business.

The displaced couple has been looking for a place to live, and rather than using just one realtor, they decided 6 would be 6 times better. Here's the problem ... the realtors claim Khloe and Lamar made each of them feel as if they were the only ones, and they're now fighting over who can lay claim to a commission.

And it gets even better, because cameras for their reality show have been following Khloe and Lamar around during their house hunt, with different realtors in tow. So the realtors not only think they'll score a commission, they're also dreaming of fame.

Apparently Khloe and Lamar have recognized their lapse of etiquette, and they've settled on just one realtor. What's more, we're told they just found a condo in the W Hotel. It's a 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, 1800 square-foot pad. It's listed for lease at $7,500 a month. more on this story

Father of Heisman Trophy Winner Warns Sport Agents
(TMZ) Robert Griffin III is getting some serious protection off the field from his father -- who's demanding potential sports agents back off his Heisman Trophy winning son while he decides if he's jumping to the NFL.

Sources close to RG3's family tell TMZ, RG2 (aka Dad) has decided any agents who contact his son directly will be out of the running to sign him ... and thereby, screwed out of a future multi-million dollar commission.

We're told Dad wants all the agents to contact him -- leaving RG3 alone to focus on next week's Alamo Bowl, and his Master's degree. Believe it or not, some reps are playing ball -- we're told Dad's talking to 5 big-time agents ... just in case RG3 goes pro.

As for that big decision -- our source says Griffin is stressed about it, and far from a lock to go pro ... partially because he doesn't want to "let people down" at Baylor.

Is this kid perfect, or what? more on this story

Michaele Salahi Claims Tareq Terrorized Her
(TMZ) Tareq Salahi is a violent control freak who employs psychotic scare tactics to terrorize Michaele Salahi ... at least that what she says.

Michaele wants the judge in her divorce case to grant a legal separation STAT, so she can be free of the spell Tareq has cast over her ... according to legal docs obtained by TMZ.

Michaele explains in her papers that she fled to Journey guitarist Neal Schon because she just plain feared for her physical safety.

According to Michaele, the Summer of 2011 was the season of rage for Tareq -- culminating in physical violence against her.

The final straw came on September 11th ... Michaele claims she returned from an errand a few hours late, and Tareq turned out all the lights and waited for her in the basement ... telling her she needed a lesson in fear. Two days later, Michaele fled to Neal ... fearing for her safety.

As for Tareq -- he categorically denies the allegations ... telling TMZ, Michaele is a "chronic liar" whose accusations are "absurd." Tareq insists he loved her and did everything humanly possible to support her during their marriage. more on this story

Scars on 45 Announce North American Tour
Scars on 45 will kick of the New Year with a North American tour. And it is not just any tour, it will be their first-ever U.S. headline tour.

The dates begin January 25th at San Francisco's Café du Nord and then continue through mid-February.

Support on most dates will come from the band's Chop Shop/Atlantic labelmate, Anya Marina more on this story

New Common Album Arrives
Rapper Common released his 9th studio album "The Dreamer, The Believer," this week and Warner Bros. Records sent over these comments about it:

The album is a full-circle journey through life, love and reality. "I wanted to make an album that everyone could relate to and also showcases my experiences. My career has taken many directions in the past couple of years as well as my personal life," reflects Common."

The lead single "Blue Sky" touches on the importance of reaching for your goals despite your current circumstance: "Daylight beams, night-life schemes/ This is my inception I'm writing my dreams." Elsewhere, "Cloth" demonstrates a symbolic view of relationships and the belief that your mate has to be cut from the same values and beliefs ("We can cover each other through the coldest nights/ Tight, never smother, It's two things that seems to hold us together/ God is our tailor and forever), while "Raw (How You Like It)" is a throwback to real hip-hop battles and natural bravado ("Dude got vile like crack in the 80's/ You don't want to test this yo/ You never know who got a tech up in the disco"). more on this story

Sarah McLachlan Releases Collaborative Christmas Song With A Twist
RCA sent over exciting news for Sarah McLachlan fans: McLachlan and students from the Sarah McLachlan School of Music (SoM) teamed up to record an original Christmas song and music video featuring original lyrics by student Freya Cirulis (17) with music by SoM students.

"Space on the Couch for Two" features the talents of Sarah McLachlan on lead vocals, with background vocals and instruments performed by students.

This song is offered free of charge on the Sarah McLachlan School of Music website: sarahschoolofmusic.com or "Space on the Couch for Two" in the hopes that people's generosity will allow the Sarah McLachlan School of Music to continue providing exceptional opportunities for at-risk youth in Vancouver, BC to learn music. 100% of the profits made from the sale of this song will go to support the Sarah McLachlan School of Music. more on this story

Joan Osborne To Give Fans The Blues Next Year
(Webster) Joan Osborne will release her new blues-inspired album, Bring it on Home, on March 27, 2012 via Saguaro Road Records. Here is the official word with the details: Joan Osborne recalls how "Blues music rescued me when I was in need of rescue."

Joan Osborne - Bring It On HomeOn her newest album, Bring it on Home, Joan returns the favor and it's the blues that gets new life. Drawing from a voice the New York Times called "angelic ecstasy and sexual abandon," Joan Osborne has at long last made an album of vintage blues, R&B and soul songs.

A collection of some of her favorite classic songs, Bring it on Home is Osborne's tribute to the music she has long loved and drew inspiration from. "I knew that, someday, when the time was right and my voice was ready," Osborne says, "I wanted to make a recording like the one you're holding now." With vocals that growl and soar, Osborne alternately cries out with heart-wrenching soul and foot-stomping grooves. more on this story

CD for the Troops V Provided To 1 Million Service Members, Veterans, And Military Families
Operation Homefront, the non-profit that provides emergency financial and other assistance to military families and Wounded Warriors, announced that with this month's release of "CD for the Troops V," the series of albums will have been provided to 1 million service members, veterans, and military families.

This fifth album includes songs from 11 artists, including Grammy Award-nominated John Ondrasik, to show their support for all service members and their families. Operation Homefront is a co-producer of the series.

"John Ondrasik's love for our military families and devotion to the welfare of our men and women in uniform comes through again in this fifth album," said Amy Palmer, Chief Operating Officer for Operation Homefront. "All of the talented artists who have lent their voices to 'CD for the Troops V' have shown their support for our military in an incredible way." more on this story

Marc Anthony Giving Staff Caribbean Vacation for Christmas
(TMZ) Marc Anthony clearly wants to show he's a cooler boss than Jennifer Lopez -- treating his 14-person staff to an all-expenses-paid vacation ... to the Dominican Republic!!!

Sources close to Marc tell TMZ, Marc took his immediate staff on a vacation retreat to DR as a holiday present to thank them for their hard work.

We're told Marc put the staff up at an exclusive resort for 5 days in La Romana -- and comped meals, drinks, and entertainment.

But it wasn't all mindless self-indulgence -- Marc and his staff also paid a visit to the city's Niños de Cristo orphanage to spend some time with the less fortunate . Your move, J.Lo. more on this story

Rachel Taylor Brown Releases Holiday Album
Rachel Taylor Brown has released a holiday album entitled 7 Small Winter Songs and a collection of unreleased, stripped down recordings entitled Songs Without A Home.

Her decision to put these online (7 Small Winter Songs has only previously been available at her shows) was made in part to give fans more material and a look into her creative process.

But, also to further promote her latest full-length, World So Sweet, which came out earlier this fall. more on this story

NBC Correspondent Arrested At Jerry Sandusky's Lawyer Party
(TMZ) An NBC Correspondent was arrested last week after allegedly getting wasted at a party thrown by Jerry Sandusky's lawyer ... TMZ has learned.

The Correspondent -- Jay Gray -- was invited by attorney Joe Amendola to watch the New York Giants game at his house on December 11. Amendola invited reporters from other media outlets as well, all of whom were vying for an exclusive interview with Sandusky.

One source familiar with the party tells TMZ ... Gray got "really drunk" during the game. Sometime after midnight, Gray left the party and began driving. He was stopped by a Pennsylvania State Police officer for a traffic violation, which quickly turned into a DUI stop.

According to police records obtained by TMZ, "He [Gray] had been drinking and was arrested for DUI." The time of arrest was 1:45 AM on December 12.

We left messages for Gray but did not hear back. Ditto Amendola.

NBC had no comment. more on this story

Deion Sanders To Lose His $21 Million Home
(TMZ) Deion Sanders is going to wish he lived in a one-bedroom apartment in a bad part of town -- because TMZ has learned a provision in his prenup states the bigger the home he lives in ... the more he has to fork over to his soon-to-be ex-wife Pilar.

As TMZ first reported, Deion and Pilar are ending their marriage after 12 years. According to our sources, the papers will be filed soon.

Sources close to the couple tell us Deion had agreed to buy Pilar a house when they split ... equal to half the value of whatever their current home is. Well nowadays they live in Prosper, TX -- in a home that's almost 30,000 square feet, with 10 bedrooms, 9 full baths (and 4 half baths) ... and a listing price of $21 million.

We're told Pilar has been house hunting since Thanksgiving, looking for a home in the $9-12 million range.

Love hurts

Today's Day In Rock

Guns N' Roses Plan New Music But Axl Not Sure About Reunion
(hennemusic) In a rare Axl Rose interview with the Los Angeles Times adds more questions than answers about what fans can expect from Guns N' Roses at the Rock Hall induction. "I've got mixed emotions about what the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame actually really is, but at the same time, there's a lot of people — the fans — that it just means something to them, and they're happy. It's like you won the Heisman or something," says Axl.
Randall Roberts of the LA Times writes that the last thing Rose wants to do, the singer stresses, is ruin it for others. He refers to Marlon Brando sending an American Indian activist to accept his Oscar and give a protest speech "and everybody getting … off, or when Michael Moore got up at the Academy Awards and said whatever about George Bush. People don't want that associated with their awards shows, even if you have a big audience. In one way it might be right, but it usually backfires on whoever does it. So I really don't want to spoil it for everybody else — or take the beating."

Then he said curtly of the induction performance: "There is no plan yet. There really is no plan. We're still busy with this lineup. We're gonna be busy — we're gonna be busy all next year. We'll be putting out new stuff as soon as we can figure out what our deal is with labels, blah blah blah."

During the extended conversation, Rose went on to explain the source of the friction between himself and Slash. "It was really a fight with me and Slash," says Rose of the forces that took down the band. "Izzy was doing the same thing, but the fight with me and Slash started the day I met him. He came in, popped my tape out and put his in and wanted me in his band. And I didn't want to join his band. We've had that war since Day 1." more on this story

Vince Neil Thru With Motley Crue?
(hennemusic) Vince Neil pal Robin Leach of the The Las Vegas Sun reports the singer is seriously contemplating a split from Motley Crue after their series of Las Vegas shows in February. "It's not definite, but I am thinking seriously about it," said Vince.

Neil spoke with Leach from the Bahamas, where the Crue frontman went to relax after the band's recent UK tour. "I'm having a great time here -- I could stay a year!," Vince told Leach. "I'm sitting on my yacht, contemplating my future, and I'm not sure it will be with Motley Crue after Las Vegas. Great things are coming up and pushing me in another direction."

"This is all about me thinking about the second half of my life, thinking about my future, and that future might not include Motley Crue after Vegas. There are so many opportunities that are in front of me that I'm really excited about. I just don't want to look back later in life and regret that I didn't pursue them," added Neil. more on this story

Rare 1978 Van Halen Interview Goes Online
(hennemusic) A rare, vintage interview with Van Halen has surfaced online. It's a 1978 live radio interview with David Lee Roth and Alex Van Halen promoting the band's first UK tour.

an Halen's first UK dates were opening for Black Sabbath, starting in May of '78, just three months after the release of their self-titled debut album. The month-long tour featured 26 dates, including 4 shows at London's famed Hammersmith Odeon.

While the broadcast date is unknown, the source is a UK fan who recorded the session from public radio. Referring to the band's cover of The Kinks' classic, "You Really Got Me," Roth says, "That got us into the top 40 in America there, which is the land of the Bee Gee now. It's pretty dominated by top 40 charts, including much middle of the road and disco, and what have you, but there's not much rock going out now…and that's what Van Halen is playing. We play big rock." Listen here.

Beach Boys Plan Busy Reunion Tour
(Gibson) Mike Love says the reformed Beach Boys will play "four or five shows a week" next summer.

The NME reports that the Beach Boys are going to be busy during their 2012 50th anniversary tour. Dates have not been announced but they are confirmed as headliners for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival that runs from April 27 to May 6.

Mike Love told Rolling Stone that they plan on using the musicians form Brain Wilson's band: "Brian Wilson has an incredible band. We're using most of his band. And we've got [current Beach Boys touring] drummer John Cowsill and our guitarist, Scott Totten. We're kind of blending things together. I think, musically, it's going to be incredible." more on this story



Macy Gray Rocks Metallica Classic On New Album
(hennemusic) R&B/soul singer Macy Gray has a new collection, "Covered," due for release on March 27.

The album features Gray taking on covers by other artists, including songs by Metallica, Arcade Fire and others.

One of the tracks Macy recorded is a cover of Metallica's 1991 tune, "Nothing Else Matters," from the band's self-titled "Black" album.

Some live footage of Gray performing the Metallica classic in Rio this fall can be seen here.

Classic Pantera Live Recording Goes Online
(The Metal Den) TMD has obtained classic concert audio of Pantera performing "A New Level" during Ozzfest 1997 on June 17 at Polaris Amphitheater in Columbus, Ohio.

The listener is treated to the undisputed raw power of The Cowboys From Hell. Late great guitarist Dimebag Darrell's guitar wizardry is on full display. More than that, this event would turn out to be quite eventful.

From MTV News: The capacity crowd of 20,000 was less than thrilled with the news that Ozzy himself would not be performing, and about 1,000 of them took their anger out on the venue. Fans smashed box office windows, ripped down panels from a wooden fence, and lit small fires around the amphitheater grounds. According to the "Columbus Dispatch," the crowd also seriously damaged at least one car, and destroyed trees and fences on neighboring property. This riot resulted in the arrest of 23 attendees. more on this story

Paul McCartney Streaming New Song Online
Paul McCartney is streaming the first song from his Brand New as yet untitled album online.

The full album will be released by Hear Music/Concord Records on February 7th 2012.

The album is Paul's tribute to his personal favorites along with two new self penned compositions. Check out the first song from the release, "My Valentine," here.

Gwar Forced To Cancel Tour
Weak-kneed promoters have caused the cancelation of the European leg of Gwar's "Return of the World Maggot" world tour.

The Euro trek, which was scheduled to kick off in January 2012, has been cancelled after several promoters pulled the plug on shows, citing poor ticket sales.

Gwar spokesman Dave Oderus Brockie commented on the tour's cancellation: "Several of the promoters were alarmed by the low ticket sales, and they decided to start pulling the plug on shows. It got to the point where we had lost so many shows that we simply could not afford to do the tour." more on this story

Say Anything Release Video Created By The Dear Hunter Star
Say Anything have released a new lyric video that was created by Casey Crescenzo of The Dear Hunter.

The video is for the song "Burn A Miracle," the first track released off of their forthcoming full-length album, Anarchy, My Dear. The single has been released digitally via iTunes and Amazon but you can check out the lyric video here

"Burn a Miracle" was written as a call to arms of sorts, to rally those who would destroy the boundaries that others and themselves placed on their lives," explains Say Anything frontman Max Bemis. more on this story

Slash Angry Over Guns N' Roses Rock Hall Reunion Story
(hennemusic) Slash is setting the record straight on his current status for Guns N' Roses' induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame next spring.

"For the record, I didn't RSVP, or in any way commit to attending the RRHF. I don't appreciate people putting words in my mouth," tweeted Slash on Tuesday.

The guitarist was responding to comments made on Monday by Joel Peresman, President and CEO of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Foundation. more on this story

Beach Boys Not Van Halen Were The Grammy Reunion Surprise
(hennemusic) Last month, the Grammys teased a special "iconic group" reunion announcement was to be made on their sponsor-driven Nominations special, and further complicated the matter with a misleading tweet hinting that the act involved was Van Halen.

In the days following the show, rumors spread that the band the Grammys were planning to have appear on their program was, in fact, The Beach Boys.

This week, Beach Boy Al Jardine confirmed that the 60s surf-pop group was really the band involved with the music industry awards show. W.E.N.N. reports Jardine tells Rolling Stone that he has no idea why the major news wasn't part of the nominations broadcast. "I thought the Grammys might make the announcement," said Jardine. "I don't know what happened… There will be a surprise at the Grammys. We'll do something really exciting… It's going to be a very big operation." more on this story

Public Image Ltd. Remasters Coming
(Gibson) Ex-Sex Pistol John Lydon's other band, Public Image Ltd. are releasing their entire back catalog next year.

NME.com reports that all PiL albums (except Metal Box, which was reissued in 2009) will be remastered for next year.

The albums, which will be reissued by EMI, include: First Issue (aka Public Image Ltd.), Paris in the Spring, Flowers of Romance, Live in Tokyo, This is What You Want... This Is What You Get, Album (aka Compact Disc), Happy, 9, The Greatest Hits So Far, That What is Not as well as John Lydon's solo album Psycho's Path.

Lydon also has been talking about a brand-new Public Image album. read that here.



Rock Hall Invites Original Guns N' Roses Lineup To Induction
(hennemusic) There's been some question amongst fans about which members of Guns N' Roses are actually being invited to the band's Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction next April. We now have the answer.

"Who will be invited, obviously, is the original five [that made 'Appetite For Destruction'] and [keyboardist] Dizzy [Reed] and [drummer] Matt [Sorum]," said Joel Peresman, President and CEO of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Foundation, during an interview Monday on Sirius/XM's Eddie Trunk Live.

The five GNR members from the Appetite lineup are Axl Rose, Slash, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan and Steven Adler. more on this story

Metallica Release Second 30th Anniversary Show
(hennemusic) Metallica are now offering fans audio of night no. 2 of their recent 30th Anniversary shows at the Fillmore in San Francisco.

For the December 7 gig, the band were joined by many special guests, including former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted, Lou Reed, Kid Rock, Marianne Faithfull, Mercyful Fates's King Diamond, Hank Shermann, Timi Hansen and Michael Denner, Ray Haller (Sweet Savage) and John Bush (Armored Saint).

Metallica rocked a 20-song set that included covers, some Loutallica, and the debut of a second previously-unreleased "Death Magnetic" track, "Just A Bullet Away." more on this story

Red Hot Chili Peppers Add Another Concert Due To High Demand
Fans are showing their excitement about the return of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

The band has sold out yet another show and been forced to add a second concert to meet demand.

This time the second show has been added in the Bay Area at Oracle Arena on Saturday, February 18th following the sell out for the February 17th appearance at the venue. more on this story

Free Download of The Sheds New EP For Christmas
Rite of Passage/Mediaskare Records are celebrating the '10 Days of Christmas' and part of it includes a free download of The Sheds' new EP 'Self/Doubt'.

The 5-song EP was recorded in November at Undercity Studios and features a guest appearance by Joe Boynton and Tim Landers of Transit on the track "Heart". The EP will released on limited edition 7" vinyl and CD in early 2012. you can download your copy of the EP here.

In other news, the band has lined up a short west coast tour alongside Heart To Heart and Currents. more on this story

Lionheart Tap Matt Hyde and Nick Jett To Produce New Album
Lionheart will be entering The Sunset Lodge recording studio in Silverlake, CA in January with producers Matt Hyde (Hatebreed, Slayer, Terror) and Nick Jett (Terror).

The follow up to 2011's "Built On Struggle" is slated for an early 2012 release. "It's an exciting opportunity to be able to work with Matt Hyde and Nick Jett on this album," says Lionheart vocalist Rob Watson.

"Matt Hyde's resume speaks for itself, and we know Nick from previous tours done together so it will be awesome to work together on something like this. We've been working on this record since the release of Built On Struggle, and we can't wait to start recording it. It's heavier, harder, and more pissed than anything we've done to date." more on this story

Blameshift and Evolove Plan Awake The State Tour 2012
Blameshift will be hitting the road early Next Year with Evolove for a three week coheadlining tour.

The trek, that will take the bands along the west coast, has been dubbed the Awake The State Tour 2012 and kicks off on January 25th in Long Beach, Ca.

Upon the tours' end, Blameshift will enter the studio with producer Erik Ron, (Panic At The Disco, Versa Emerge, Four Year Strong) with the speculation of a major label deal. more on this story

Happy Holidays From Aerosmith Guitarist
(hennemusic) Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford has recorded a "holiday" message for fans.

The video was filmed as the Boston band was wrapping up their recent tour of Japan.

A new Aerosmith album – their first of original material in 10 years – is expected next spring. Check out Brad's message

ZZ Top Christmas Memory
(Gibson) ZZ Top mastermind and guitar titan Billy Gibbons has a favorite Christmas memory. It may not be surprising that it involves a certain six-stringed instrument.

In an interview with Men's Journal (via Ultimate Classic Rock), Gibbons recalled Christmas morning at the Gibbons household in 1962, when young Billy was only 13-years-old. "Sitting under the tree was a little Gibson Melody Maker …. and away we went."

Gibbons also shared his musical memories of his family. "My dad was quite the entertainer. He was a classically trained pianist with his five brothers as the Gibbons Brothers Band," he said. "The thing he shared with me that still resonates: Play what you want to hear. And following that, the two golden rules: Play it in tune and play it in good time."



Palisades Preview Online
Rise Records have set a January 24, 2012 release date for Palisades' debut EP, I'm Not Dying Today.

Rise has posted a stream of the song "Immortal," a track off the forthcoming EP on their Youtube channel here.

I'm Not Dying Today was recorded at Chango Gridlock Studios in Orlando Florida. Watch for Palisades on tour throughout 2012.


Singled Out: Atkins May Project (Judas Priest)
Original Judas Priest singer Al Atkins recently teamed with guitarist Paul May for the release of their "Serpents Kiss" album. To celebrate we asked Paul to tell us about the album track "Theatre of Fools". Here is the story:

The "Serpents Kiss" album covers a varied collection of subject matters; from Life Struggles to Betrayal, from Faith to World Events! Something for everyone!! One track I think is particularly 'current' at the moment is the last track on the album, a bit of an epic clocking in at around the 9 minutes mark! It's a track called "Theatre Of Fools" which was quite "Prophetic", in as much as it was written with the Iraq situation and conclusion still fresh in the media and I just felt that there would be more to come. It's a song about tyrants, regimes and dictators! Sure enough, not much later than my pen left the page, the last 12 months has seen the demise of several world dictatorships and the fall of tyrants! I think you can figure those our for yourselves!

The song touches on how madness plays its role, like an act of a tragic play and with such devastation, and as the world looks on in horror at some of these men who try to act like they are "gods", with their only eventuality being their own destruction! Quite a hot subject, but brilliantly portrayed by Al with his vocal skills in what I think is a very emotional performance! It's a big track but it needed to be for such a huge subject.

Today's Day In Rock

Bon Jovi Death Hoax
(superLOUD) News of the death of Jon Bon Jovi started spreading virally yesterday, even trending worldwide on twitter.
The source of the news appears to be a free wordpress site constructed by an unknown user.

Fortunately, this news is a confirmed hoax. The 49-year old Jon Bon Jovi shared a picture on his official facebook page that confirms to his fans that he is in fact, alive and well. Check out the photo here.

Axl Rose Runs Out Of Patience With Fan At Guns N' Roses Show
(hennemusic) Axl Rose ran out of patience Saturday night and had a fan ejected from the Guns N' Roses show in Vancouver. "Out, mother**ker!, Out!," yelled Axl from the stage, "Dumb-ass mother**ker, get the f*** out!."

"Ya, that guy," continued Axl, pointing the guy out to security. "'Oh, what did I do?'" he said mockingly. "The Asian little dips**t. See ya, ya dumb-ass mother**ker!"

Rose and DJ Ashba both waved at the fan, and then Axl broke into a version of "Happy Trials." "That's the first person I've had thrown out for 100 shows," said Axl from the stage. "Like the good old days." More details and video here.

Aerosmith's Joe Perry To Hold Online Chat
(hennemusic) Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry is hosting a live Twitter chat next week. Perry tweeted the news to fans on Monday:

"Dec 29th at 9:00pm live Q&A with me on Twitter details to follow. Spread the word."

Aerosmith recently completed a Japanese tour, which came on the heels of a South and Central American run of shows. more on this story

Corgan Dropping Smashing Pumpkins Name?
(Audio Ink Radio) The Smashing Pumpkins are gearing up to release their latest full-length in 2012, Oceania, and frontman Billy Corgan says the set is getting such great reaction from his peers, that they're advising him to change the band's legendary name!

In a new interview with Sterogum, Corgan explained that, "some people who've known me a long time, people like 20+ years, people in the music business, people who've been around during the making of other albums, they've basically patted me on the back and said 'You've actually done it. You got off Planet Pumpkin onto something else.'

"What's so funny about it — I haven't told anybody this, you seem like a nice person so I'll tell you — the reaction to the record is so strong that people have said, 'OK, now's the time to change the name.' more on this story

Paul McCartney Sets New Album Release
42 West sent over big news for Paul McCartney fans. The Beatles legend has announced a BRAND NEW as yet untitled album to be released on February 7th 2012.

The album is a glimpse into "the songs which inspired the songs" with a tribute to his personal favourites- plus two new McCartney compositions.

Here is the official word: WHILE many a musician is often asked about the tunes that have influenced their songwriting, it is not a question Paul McCartney ordinarily gets to answer – until now. Paul is about to offer a glimpse into "the songs which inspired the songs" with the upcoming release of a brand new album of those standards he grew up listening to in his childhood—plus two brand new McCartney compositions: the album, which is currently untitled, will be released on Hear Music/Concord Records on February 7th 2012. more on this story

Godsmack Plan Live Album and Tour With Staind
(Banana 101.5) Godsmack frontman Sully Erna hit the interview circuit last week and detailed several plans the band has in the works including a live album, a spring co-headlining with Staind, and an unidentified release.

The singer/guitarist outlined the band's plans for the new year speaking with his hometown newspaper The Boston Herald, saying that they will tour with Staind in the spring and will mix a live album in January — they will also record a few cover songs that inspired them for the disc.

Erna also dropped by That Metal Show and hinted at what could be another album by teasing, "We have a couple of tricks up our sleeve and plan to release stuff for a special kind of retail piece." more on this story

Metallica Recap 30th Anniversary Show
(hennemusic) Metallica are playing catch-up with their recent 30th Anniversary shows. The band rocked four shows over a week-long series of fan club-only shows at the Fillmore in San Francisco earlier this month.

The December 5 show kicked off the week with special guests including former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted, John Marshall (Metal Church), Sean Harris and Brian Tatler (Diamond Head), Biff Byford (Saxon) and Apocalyptica.

Now, Metallica have issued a video recap of the December 5 concert. Check it out here.

Dokken Stars Dump The Chump and Recruit Sebastian Bach and Doug Pinnick
(Gibson) Kings X bass player and vocalist Doug "dUg" Pinnick and former Skid Row singer Sebastian Bach will contribute to the new album by Dokken alumni George Lynch, Jeff Pilson and Mick Brown.

Lynch, Pilson and Brown decided to team up again after plans for a fully-fledged Dokken reunion fell through. The band – called Tooth and Nail after a hit Dokken album – is now in the studio working on original songs and remakes of several Dokken classics. Bach sings on a new version of Dokken's "Alone Again," while Brown will sing "When Heaven Comes Down." Pilson also will handle vocal duties.

Brown plays on the remade Dokken tracks, while drums on the new original songs will be performed by Brian Tichy, who was a member of Zakk Wylde's first post-Ozzy band, Pride & Glory, as well as Whitesnake, Foreigner and Lynch's own band, Lynch Mob.

The album, previously rumored to be titled Dump The Chump, is tentatively scheduled for release in March. more on this story



New Shinedown Coming Soon
(Gibson) Shinedown will release a new single, "Bully," on January 3 in the lead-up to the spring release of their next album.

The album is being recorded at Ocean Way Recording in Hollywood, California, and the sessions are being produced by Rob Cavallo, who has manned the board for Kid Rock and Green Day releases and was previously in the producer's chair for Shinedown's The Sound of Madness album.

That album was released nearly four years ago to great success, but it received a further sales kick last year when it was re-released in a deluxe edition with the song "Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom)," which Shinedown recorded for the film The Expendables. In an interview with Gannett Media earlier this year, Shinedown lead guitarist Zach Myers said the band had around 14 songs written for the new album. Recording sessions began in August, and mixing is underway now. Myers says the album's release date and title will be announced soon. more on this story



Peter Gabriel Calls On Fans For So 25th Anniversary
(Gibson) Peter Gabriel is preparing a special 25th anniversary edition of his classic solo album So, and he's thrown the door open for fans to participate.

Gabriel is asking fans and past colleagues to offer up any So-era memorabilia, photos and other paraphernalia they might have, for inclusion in the anniversary reissue's booklet or on his website. Gabriel says anything will be considered, from posters and tickets from the So concert tour to photos relating to the album's release or concerts, to even personal diary entries related to the album and its impact on fans' lives.

"We'd love to see what's out there and what people are willing to send in to add to stuff that's out there already," Gabriel said. "Give us some guidance as to what sort of package you'd like to see." more on this story



Jon Anderson Says Yes To Cancer Support Community For Christmas
Legendary Yes frontman Jon Anderson is providing the soundtrack for the Cancer Support Community of Philadelphia (CSCP)'s 2011 electronic holiday card.

The e-card, designed by Lauren Keswick and Scott Bluebond and produced by Keswick was distributed today to the cancer support organization's friends, supporters, members, donors and others and is available at www.cancersupport-phila.org.

The song used for the e-card is called "Give Hope" and was originally released as a bonus track on the 22nd anniversary reissue of Anderson's fourth solo album, the holiday-themed 3 Ships. This reissue contained five tracks not included on the original release from 1985 including this song. The original music for this song was by Narada Michael Walden and it was developed by Christophe Lebled. CSCP marketing and communications director Scott Bluebond was listening to the track recently and thought it would make an excellent accompaniment to his organization's holiday e-card this year. He approached Anderson's publicist, Billy James of Glass Onyon PR, who quickly was given the "OK" from Anderson. more on this story

Paul Rodgers Releases Charity Birthday Song
(hennemusic) Paul Rodgers has released a new single, "With Our Love," in honor of his 62nd birthday on Saturday (Dec 17), and for a good cause.

100% of the proceeds are earmarked for the charities The Racehorse Sanctuary & Rocking Horse Children's Charity and Seraphim 12 Foundation.

The song was co-written and performed by Perry Margouleff, whose friendship with Rodgers dates back to over twenty years ago when they met in the U.K. while Margouleff was performing with The Pretty Things. The two have collaborated over the years. more on this story

Mr. Big Releasing Unplugged Album
(Gibson) Mr. Big will release a new acoustic live album on February 28 in North America and February 24 in Europe.

The album, Live From The Living Room, features performances taken from a special broadcast in Japan at the end of a whirlwind 11-date tour in January 2011 in support of their reunion album, What If…

Captured at WOWOW TV Studios in Tokyo, the band was augmented for the performance by a string quintet playing arrangements written by Takashi Miyazaki. Although proficient acoustic instrumentalists, guitarist Paul Gilbert and bass player Billy Sheehan couldn't resist the allure of their electric instruments for too long though, so they plug in their axes at a few strategic points during the album. But for the most part the vibe is still very much acoustic, with drummer Pat Torpey playing various acoustic percussion instruments throughout. more on this story



Blur To Reunite Again Awards Show
(Gibson) Oasis rivals and Britpop legends Blur have announced that they will reunite again on stage at the upcoming BRIT Awards.

According to theDaily Express, bass player Alex James (now a leading U.K. food critic) told radio station XFM: "We're going to play, which is brilliant; it's like putting the Blues Brothers back together."

He even hinted at a future tour. "Well, let's hope – heritage year next year. [Would] be good wouldn't it?" more on this story



We Came As Romans Tap blessthefall, Woe, Is Me For Tour
We Came As Romans will hit the road next spring in North America for The Fire and Ice Tour.

We Came As Romans will headline the trek with support from Emmure, blessthefall, Woe, Is Me and The Color Morale.

They will be kicking 2012 with a European co-headlining tour with Alesana that also features Iwrestledabearonce and Glamour Of The Kill. more on this story

Dr. Acula Announce North American Tour Dates
Dr. Acula announced plans kick off 2012 with a North American headlining tour dubbed the F*** All Your Friends Tour with support from Design The Skyline, The Devastated and In Dying Arms.

The February tour begins in Illinois and hits Seattle, Las Vegas, Houston and more, ending in Poughkeepsie in early March.

Dr. Acula is also gearing up for the release of their new music video recently shot in Chicago for "Party 2.0" off of their 2011 release, Slander. more on this story

Elvis Presley Museum Opens in Europe
Dusseldorf Marketing & Tourism GmbH sent over word about the opening of the biggest Elvis Presley Museum Outside of the United States. Here is the official word:

A new museum housing one of the world's largest private collections of Elvis Presley memorabilia, and the largest outside of the US, is now open to the public and offers new insights into his professional and private life with pieces that have never before been shown in public.

The museum is a new attraction in Düsseldorf's center, the historic Old Town, home to several world-class museums and the "longest bar in the world" (260 bars, pubs, and breweries in under a mile). more on this story

Margot & The Nuclear So and So's Set New Release
Margot & The Nuclear So and So's have set a March 20th, 2012 release date for their fourth studio album Rot Gut, Domestic.

Margot & The Nuclear So and So's will perform a New Year's Eve show at Deluxe at Amber Room in Indianapolis, IN.

A limited edition (500 hand-numbered copies) 7-inch single of Prozac Rock, which includes non-album track B-side "Fingertips", will be available exclusively at the show. more on this story

The Haptones 20th Anniversary All-Star Jam Tonight
Los Angeles area readers should head down to The Roxy tonight for the 20th anniversary all-star jam of The Haptones!

antiMusic has been thrilled to sponsor Happenin Harry's weekly all-star Haptones jams for half of those twenty years featuring a who's who of rock, metal and hard rock jamming classics from AC/DC, Deep Purple, Alice in Chains, Black Sabbath and more.

Tonight's event is set to include members of Dio, Coal Chamber, Rainbow, The Rembrandts, Alanis Morissette Band, Phil Lynott Band, Pink, Life Sex & Death (Lsd), Smashmouth, Fishbone, Five For Fighting, Rockstar Supernova, Bangkok Five, Paul Stanley Band, Wild Horses, Brett Michaels Band, Ringo Star Band, Beautiful Creatures, Rik Emmett Band, Mariah Carey Band, Antiproduct, Dave Stewart Band, Bang Tango, Marky Ramone Band, Mich Jagger Band and more special guests. more on this story

Singled Out: Royal Hunt's Hard Rain Coming
Today Andre Anderson from Royal Hunt tells us about "Hard Rain Coming" from their recently released album "Show Me How to Live". Here is the story:

Some songs developing slowly, over a long period of time - they kind of creating themselves in your mind… days go by and you´ll be "revisiting" something what used to be a vague idea only to discover that it already grown a bit bigger, a bit more defined.

"Hard Rain´s Coming" came to life in that fashion: I wanted a song which will start up slow and "fragile" and develop into an "all-stops-pulled" anthem and yet with a middle part/verse – connecting the intro and a climax (chorus) – being somehow different, carrying a lazy, laid back vibe without losing a steady pulse. Lyrically I was imagining a feeling of a hesitated longing/searching and a bombastic, overpowering contra punctual punch line.

An intro came first: a harpsichord with its glass-like, lofty sound created a nice contrast to a melody line sung in a deep, airy voice suddenly pushed aside by a heavy pounding rhythm section. Verses became an odd combination of dragged, sleepy and behind the beat vocals over a steady, staccato beat with furious harpsichord arpeggios tying it all together.
An unexpected bonus arrived as the backing singers went with an exaggerated operatic approach in the chorus, creating a larger-than-life sound which – combined with the open and polyphonic sounding band – hit the listener with an impact of epic proportions.

The biggest challenge was the final mixing: it took two full days in the studio to get all these parts to fit together sonically; constantly moving faders to underline the ever-changing dynamics of the track, tweaking reverbs/delays between verses (tight and in-your-face) and choruses (huge and dominating).

By the end of the day it was all worth it: a song became the first single from Royal Hunt´s "Show Me How to Live" album available in US through EMI – check it out.

Excerpt from Edward Van Halen: A Definitive Biography

Here’s a 4-page excerpt from the new book on Eddie Van Halen entitled, Edward Van Halen: A Definitive Biography.
CHAPTER 14
Public Relations
The Diver Down tour, nicknamed the “Hide Your Sheep Tour,” was the biggest tour of its kind to date with over 170 tons of equipment required to put on the stage show. The tour didn’t kick off until July—much later in the year than on previous tours. On July 30, while in Louisville, Ed gave an hour-plus long interview yet again with Jas Obrecht who was still writing for Guitar Player at the time. The full, unedited audio tapes of those interviews reveal some astounding examples of where he was at the time. The tapes were actually stolen from Obrecht, the only such seizure in over 800 interviews he has conducted. Edward and Obrecht were both very unhappy that the full tapes made their way to the internet. Jas has successfully had the interview removed several times, but it simply will not go away, not in the 21st century.
Via my correspondence with Obrecht, he has allowed me to use a bit of the bell that cannot be unrung. Part of the transcribed interview addressed growing problems with Dave with specificity in a way that was never publicly revealed for 25 years:
EVH: “Cathedral,” I’ve been doing for, you know, over a year and I wanted to put it on a record. . . . It’s just that, uhhh, Dave said . . . “No more fucking guitar solos.” You know?
Obrecht: He’s crazy.
EVH: No, I mean, you know, he’s, he’s got—he’s on an ego trip. He has always been. . . . But uh, he just, you know, he just said, “Fuck this, man. No more guitar solos.” And uh, you know, Ted didn’t know that that’s the way Dave felt. And uh, so one day when Dave wasn’t there, I said, Ted, what do you think of this? And what do you think of that? You know, I played him “Little Guitars”, the intro, you know, the little flamenco sounding thing, and, uh, and “Cathedral” and he’s going like “God! Why the fuck didn’t you show me this earlier?!” And I explained to him, Dave just said, “Fuck the guitar hero shit, you know, we’re a band.” So Ted just said, you know, “Fuck Dave.” So we put it on anyway.
That seems to match up with Valerie’s story of how Dave belittled him after winning his 1980 guitarist of the year award. If Dave was worried that Ed was going to be doing things on his own, in retrospect he had every right to fear just such a thing.
Before they set out on tour, Edward received a late night phone call from famed producer Quincy Jones who was producing Thriller throughout most of 1982. Ed originally thought the call was a prank and hung up the phone. Eddie’s friend Steve Lukather was the principal guitarist on the track “Beat It.” At some point, the idea was born to bring in the all-star Edward Van Halen to add a unique touch to the hard-hitting Michael Jackson anthem. Jackson himself set out to write what he described as “the type of song that I would buy if I were to buy a rock song . . . That is how I approached it and I wanted the kids to really enjoy it—the school kids as well as the college kids.”
Edward was originally given what was called a sketch of the song and suggested rearrangements that were made to suit the solo section. Ed was truly out of his element in the legendary Quincy’s studio—the quintessential opposite of the Van Halen approach. God only knows how many individual tracks there are on the final version of “Beat It.” Again, like so many times before, it has gone down in lore that the solo was done in one take or two takes or pieced together from two or three takes. Regardless, surely no one knew the impact Ed’s solo, all of thirty seconds, would have on the music world at large at the time it was cut. For the mean time though, Ed’s stepping out would remain in the closet for about a year. He told no one about his participation. At the time, Eddie claimed he simply thought nothing of it.
Whose Band Is It?
Throughout the tour during the fall of 1982, Edward absolutely felt that his control over the band was slipping permanently away to Dave. A photo shoot for Life magazine that September was proclaimed wife-free by David, and the married men complied. For Dave’s guidance, the spread was littered with images of sexually-charged excess and rock and roll mayhem. It was the standard Van Halen image that the band had started out with, except now half the guys were married, so the image did not necessarily match the reality of the situation. But Van Halen was an extremely valuable brand, and Dave knew exactly what the public wanted.
However, Edward’s wife was not an unknown. She was an extremely high-profile celebrity at this point in time, and her good-girl image was being tarnished by the Van Halen image. Somewhere, this was not sitting well with someone, and Ed and Valerie were trotted out on Entertainment Tonight to salvage Valerie’s image by obviously softening Edward’s. The opening voice-over gave a clear indication of what was to follow: “The odds of Hollywood marriages lasting are pretty slim these days particularly considering the long working hours and time apart. . . . They seem to come from different worlds. So when these two teen idols decided a year ago to marry, many of their fans and friends said it wouldn’t work.” If ever there was a clearly obvious PR move, the interview featured Eddie and Valerie sitting in nearly matching white sweaters on a couch in front of a fireplace. Additionally, the interview featured an obviously fake cut of Edward actually flipping a pancake in the kitchen while Valerie awkwardly laughs along. They’re also shown cuddling with a set of tiny, white kittens. Stars go on Entertainment Tonight for public relations purposes, especially if the only angle is the state of their marriage. The interview featured the following transcribed exchanges:
Interviewer: The two of you seem to be so different. Valerie, you’re kind of the goodie two shoes and the rock world is supposed to be so insane.
Valerie: That’s it—you just said the key word—supposed to be. I mean I’ve seen more insane people in the TV world than I have in his world. I mean, you know.
EVH: I’ll verify that.
The interviewer suggested that their lifestyles were fairly incompatible and that reports were flying that their brief marriage was already on the rocks. Valerie was exasperated that some magazines and journalists went so far in an attempt to simply take down the seemingly happy couple. She stated that they were such normal people as far as they were concerned, which was a notion that she didn’t think others believed or could process.
On another tabloid television program, PM Magazine, the couple again went on the PR defensive about their marriage in an interview with Maria Shriver. Valerie again expressed frustration that she felt forced to repeat over and over that they were a happily married couple. Their potential incompatibility was reinforced by referring to the couple as the “all-American Valerie” and the “all-electric Eddie.” Edward said that he was much happier being married and having a home than he was constantly living on the road with hotels as his permanent address.
When Shriver noted the general belief that a “rock star’s life is groupies, drinking, late hours, and hard drugs,” the following exchange took place:
Maria Shriver: But does it apply to Edward Van Halen?
Edward: Take a guess? No.
Maria Shriver: ‘No. None of it.’ . . .
Edward: The late hours and drinking, maybe, yeah.
Maria: But the groupies . . .
Edward: Of course, not! I’m married. I wouldn’t do that.
Valerie: I hope not.
This was part of a calculated effort to soften Ed’s public image, but also part of an effort to portray Valerie not as a young 15-year-old sweetheart, but a 21-year-old married woman in order to placate the tabloid criticism of their “incompatibility.” Edward appeared edgy and defensive (and shown on television both smoking and drinking).
Order the book now at Van Halen Store for just $19.95 and save $5 off the list price (Guaranteed Lowest Price anywhere).
See the book’s Facebook page.

Today's Day In Pop

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.