Norah Jones Live Webcast on Letterman
May 2, 2012 - Norah Jones is set to appear with a Live-on-Letterman webcast, featuring Jones from the prestigious Ed Sullivan Theater in New York, tonight - Wednesday, May 2nd at 8:00 ET. This is a clever, strategic move for Jones to push her next album “Little Broken Hearts” set for a May 1st release.
Norah’s Live-on-Letterman webcast will come after the taping of her gig on the Late Show with David Letterman, which will be aired later that evening on CBS.
Norah will also be part of San Francisco’s 2012 “Outside Lands Festival “ line-up and featured with great artists she has worked with in her career such as Foo Fighters, Beck, Jack White, Santigold and Neil Young. The festival is set to take place August 10-12. MORE
Bob Baldwin – Presents Betcha By Golly Wow – The Songs of Thom Bell – Peak Records (**2 out of 5 STARS)
May 1, 2012 - We live in a world where most instrumental music sounds like it was made for a 5x5 vertically moving room and that includes some Smooth Jazz. Interestingly, most Smooth Jazz musicians are technically some of the best players on the planet but many have fallen into this big vacuous hole, an amnesic state, where channelling Bert Kaempfert is common place. Case in point, the beginning of Bob Baldwin’s new album, “Betcha By Golly Wow,” gave me visions of Ed Grimley swatting fireflies with a spaghetti baton. This Thom Bell salute starts really soft with the Delfonics 1970 hit, ‘Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time).’ It was Bell’s third hit with the band. Russ Freeman’s guitar work is fantastic, as usual, but flautist Ragan Whiteside dresses the tune with a polka dot poncho – I’ll take floor number 4 please! Seriously, doing covers is a tough gig and interpretation with instrumental music is a whole other Matterhorn to climb. It’s just too easy to slip into Muzak and this opening tune is driving way too close to that dotted line. Bell was well known for his lush arrangements but not for putting anyone to sleep. MORE
Elton John Sued Over Allegedly Stealing "Nikita" Lyrics
April 27, 2012- It’s been said that some things in life may come back to haunt you and in this case, Elton John is being accused of stealing lyrics for a hit single he released back in 1985. The man coming out with these accusations is Guy Hobbs, and he says Elton‘s song “Nikita” was a rip off to a song that he wrote back in 1982 called “Natasha.” It does seem highly unlikely, however, that one of the most prolific songwriter’s, along with lyricist Bernie Taupin would ever need to steal a song from anyone!
According to TMZ, Hobbs did file the lawsuit in Illinois federal court claiming the song he wrote was based on an affair he had with a Russian cruise ship waitress…. and three years later....Elton stole his idea! Hobbs said back then he copyrighted his song “Natasha” and sent the lyrics to many publishers and even to Elton’s prominent publishing company, Lucky Pig, but never heard anything back.
When John released his hit single “Nikita” in 1985, Hobbs claims the lyrics have “significant similarities” to his song “Natasha” except Elton’s song was about a German female boarder guard. It is still unclear as to what lyrics were exactly stolen, but what makes it even more unclear is why it took Hobbs so many years to file for copyright infringement. Hobbs says since he has been hanging out in Africa since 1984, news travels slowly over there. TMZ added, that a rep for Elton and Bernie said “they do not know the plaintiff, nor did they make use of any song lyrics he claims to have written” and also the fact that Hobbs waited 26 years before coming forward makes the suit “completely meritless.” MORE
Pink Floyd Set to Release ‘Making of 'Wish You Were Here' on DVD
April 5, 2012 – Great news for Pink Floyd fans. After a slew of re-releases last year there’s more to come with the DVD documentary on the making of another classic album, ‘Wish You Were Here.’
Set for June 26th release, the DVD will feature brand new interviews with surviving members David Gilmour, Roger Waters and Nick Mason as well as archival chats with Richard Wright, who died of cancer in 2008 at the age of 65.
The distributors, Eagle Rock Entertainment, have released some great details on the project. You can also expect folk legend and guest vocalist Roy Harper to appear as well as cover art designer Storm Thorgerson and even the “burning man” dude on the cover of the album, Ronnie Rondell.
Band members will also talk about a very unexpected and infamous visit, to Abbey Road Studios, from original member Syd Barrett who slowly lost his mind after leaving Pink Floyd. The tune, 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond,' was inspired by him.
‘Wish You Were Here’ was released on September 12, 1975. It was the follow-up to their huge hit “Dark Side of the Moon.’ MORE
REVIEW - Esperanza Spalding – Radio Music Society (4 out of 5 Stars) – Heads Up – Concord Music Group
April 2, 2012 – Esperanza Spalding is a groovy chick. I mean, really, when she’s in the room, everyone else disappears and I’m talkin’ more than that big “love-sculpture” hair. She’s the type of musician you might walk up to at a party, ask about her music, and walk away three hours later regretting the question. This lady has a vision so you better have a seat.
‘Radio Music Society’ is Spalding’s third album and the follow to ‘Chamber Music Society,’ the titles are way too similar but the singer says the new album is meant as a companion, rather than a sequel to the last one. “Originally I thought it would be fun to release a double album,” she explains, “One disc with an intimate, subtle exploration of chamber works and a second one in which jazz musicians explore song forms and melodies that are formatted more along the lines of what we would categorize as “pop songs.”
Spalding, as you may remember, won the Grammy for ‘Best New Artist’ last year, stunning the music world because not that many people knew who she was – many still don’t! Will this album change that? Maybe, ‘Radio Music Society” is certainly a richly textured, well-balanced adventure that cleverly marries Jazz, Pop and World music. Her vision is so clearly expressed on this album that I found myself listening alone with headphones at high volume so not to miss any of her hundreds of brilliant vocal nuances.
This album is easy. It’s so effortless. Spalding’s message is like a dance, a drug that’s hard to deny. Being adventurous, in the music industry, usually has its price but this lady has found the pocket, that inviting bridge that allows the listener to simply trust.
READ THE FULL REVIEW
KISS Supports War Veterans Looking For Roadie
April 1, 2012- The band KISS is touring with Motley Crue this summer and they want to hire a veteran to hang out with the band on the road. KISS is participating in a program called "Hiring Our Heroes." They are looking for a strong hand that can help in setting up the stage, running effects and breaking it all down. The winning candidate does not have to have any experience but must be prepared to work long hours. This all takes place from mid- July to the end of September.
KISS has also donated thousands of dollars to the Wounded Warrior Project and they have been long time supporters of the U.S military.
Up for the challenge? Send an email to hiringourheroes@uschamber.com with your resume and contact details. MORE
It's Time for Our Annual Garage Sale!
March 12, 2012 - Each year we clean house at the Smooth Jazz Now studios. It's time for our annual fundraiser! We are raising funds for our new mixing board for the main studio and your help would be appreciated.
Here's how it works. We are adding new Ebay auctions every day offering 10-CD sets with starting bids of $9.99. That's $1 for a CD!!!
In many cases the CD's are still sealed and/or have only been played once. Also since there are three radio stations under our roof (the others being www.rockhistorybook.com and www.whatsinvisible.com), you will see auctions featuring many genre's including Traditional Jazz. Rock, New-Age, ambient etc. Also look for some autographed CD and LP's.
Remember we will be adding 20-30 auctions every day for the next 30 days.
Happy bidding and thanks for the support! Check out our auction page HERE
Davy Jones of the Monkees Dead at 66
February 29, 2012 – The lead voice of the Monkees is dead. Davy Jones suffered a heart attack and died this morning.
The singer was staying at a ranch near his Florida home, where he was visiting his horses. Jones complained he had trouble breathing and 911 was called. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Jones leaves behind a wife, Jessica, and four daughters from previous marriages.
He joined the Monkees in 1965 with Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith and Peter Tork.
The band had eleven Top-40 hits including the three number one hits, "Daydream Believer," "Last Train to Clarksville" and "I'm a Believer." MORE
Ron Wood Hints at Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary Tour
February 29, 2012 – We are starting to hear leaks concerning the Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary Tour. Here is what Ron Wood told Radio Times, "[It would] be lovely, wouldn't it? That's what we're on the verge of. I don't know what the hell is going to happen yet, but we all feel we owe it to ourselves and to the people to do something. Basically, [we need to] get the boys feeling comfortable with each other, because we're all ready to go individually. It's just a matter of tying up loose ends and coming together as a unit."
This is just one month after Charlie Watts said something very similar about a possible tour.
Stones fans are hopeful. We could hear an announcement soon? MORE
Journey Drummer Sentenced Anger-Management
February 25, 2012 - Journey drummer Deen Castronovo is learning the hard way about domestic abuse. He was sentenced to 80 hours of community service and he must attend anger-management classes as a result of an incident involving a woman.
The 47-year-old drummer was arrested in January after a fight with a West Salem woman who told police that Castronovo had accused her of cheating. He was charged with recklessly endangering another person, interfering with making a police report, criminal mischief and harassment.
He has been Journey’s drummer for over 10 years. MORE
Adele Wins Six Grammy Awards And Nicki Minaj Embarrasses Herself
February 12, 2012 - As expected it was a huge night for Adele at the Grammy Awards. The singer, from Tottenham, North London, England, walked away with six trophies including "Song," "Record" and "Album of the Year." In her usually classy way she thanked "the doctors who brought my voice back." On stage she described her album "21" as a story that "everyone's been through. Which is a rubbish relationship." Adele's totals tied her with Beyonce as the most wins by a woman in one evening but if you judge it for vocal prowess, it's Adele hands down!
Nicki Minaj, who I don't really consider a musician, presented a convoluted, silly performance. It was easily one of the most embarrassing performances in Grammy history. In it's very Lady Gaga-esque over-the-top attention seeking shtick Minjaj lip-synched through exorcism on stage to one of the worse songs ever recorded - "Roman Holiday." Hey Nicki, can you hear the sound of angry catholics at your door? Good luck with that!!
The Foo Fighters were also big winners with five Grammy’s. Lead singer Dave Grohl walked on stage and reminded the audience how the band’s new album "Wasting Light" was recorded in his garage, the old fashioned way. He said, "The human element of making music is most important. Singing into a microphone, learning to play your instrument. It's not about being perfect. It's not about what goes on in a computer, but what goes on in here and what goes in here," as he pointed to his head and heart. The strange part was the Foo Fighters then performed in the Electronic dance music set of the
evening?
Kanye West, who had the most nominations at seven, picked up four Grammy’s.
Also a big congrats to Justin Vernon and his band Bon Iver who won Best New Artist and Best Alternative Album.
The night was filled with tributes including the reunited Beach Boys, Glen Campbell and, of course, Whitney Houston. Jennifer Hudson's rendition of the Dolly Parton penned "I Will Always Love You," a Whitney signature song, was breathtaking. Houston died yesterday in L.A.
There was a huge milestone for Alison Krauss who officially became the only living artist with 28 Grammy Awards. She surpassed Quincy Jones tonight by winning Best Bluegrass Album.
Unfortunately, Dave Koz did not win a Grammy tonight. He was nominated for Best Pop Instrumental Album for "Hello Tomorrow," Booker T Jones won it for his CD "The Road From Memphis."
The Best New Age album went to Pat Metheny (he must be so happy to be known as a New-Ager) for "What's It All About."
Best Improvised Jazz Solo was awarded to Chick Corea for "500 Miles High." He also won for his trio, Corea, Clarke and White, for Best Jazz Instrumental Album with the CD "Forever." Terri Lyne Carrington picked up Best Jazz Vocal Album.
Bela Fleck and Howard Levy were honored with Best Instrumental Composition
for "Life In Eleven." MORE
Your 54th Annual Grammy Awards Updates
February 12, 2012 - This is how to start a shindig! Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band opened the 54th Annual Grammy Awards with the new single "We Take Care Of Our Own." It was big, it was real, it was beautiful.
LL Cool J, the nights MC, started his job by saying a prayer for Whitney Houston who died in L.A. yesterday. The reality of her death certainly hit hard when Whitney was featured on the giant screen singing "I Will Always Love You."
Bruno Mars showed his harder edge performing "Runaway Baby" from his "Doo - Wops & Hooligans" album.
Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt did both the Blues and Etta James proud by performing the late music icon's great hit "Sunday Kind Of Love." The pair also gave out the nights first award "Best Pop Solo Performance" which was picked up by Adele and "Someone Like You."
Chris Brown, who famously almost lost his career and freedom a few years ago at the Grammy's after beating the crap out of Rhianna, performed next. He's as much of a great lip-syncher as he is a dancer. It was a great performance however.
Best Rap Performance goes to Jay-Z and Kanye West for Otis.
Jack Black introduced the sensational Foo Fighters who blew the roof off with their nominated "Walk." Best performance so far!
Coldplay and Rihanna shared the stage next. Well, at least Coldplay sounded good!
Best Rock Performance was picked up by Foo Fighters for "Walk."
Maroon 5 kicked off the Beach Boys tribute with "Surfer Girl." Foster the People did a great job of "Wouldn't It Be Nice." Then for their 50th Anniversary the reunited Beach Boys took to the stage to perform one of the most loved songs in pop history "Good Vibrations." It was classic!
It's an event when Paul McCartney does anything but having Paul perform with Diana Krall and the Eagles Joe Walsh, well, it doesn't get much more tasty than this. Paul performed his new Jazz single "My Valentine" followed by, of course, a standing ovation.
Chris Brown won "Best R&B Album" for F.A.M.E.
The Civil Wars seemed to upstage Taylor Swift with her kiddie-country music and her variation on a boy-done-me-wrong theme. God this girl's music is boring!
Song of the Year was won by Adele's "Rolling In The Deep." Everyone predicted this one!
"Own The Night" by Lady Antebellum was Top Country Album.
Adele's comback was complete when the talented singer took to the stage for her hit "Rolling In The Deep." After undergoing a throat operation there was no doubt tonight that her pipes were back! She also got a much deserved standing ovation. Maybe Lady Gaga learned something, probably not.
The Glen Campbell tribute was sensational with Blake Shelton, looking too uptight as usual, doing a cool version of "Southern Nights" and he also had the pleasure in introducing Campbell, who suffers from Alzheimer's. The music legend sang his signature "Rhinestone Cowboy." He received the recording Academy's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Best New Artist was Wisconsin-bred band Bon Iver.
Gerry Rafferty was missing from the tributes of fallen music heroes that we lost in the last year and Dan Peek of the group America was also not mentioned. Jennifer Hudson did an amazing rendition of Whitney Houston's classic "I Will Always Love You." It was a vocal triumph and a fitting tribute to the wonderful voice that put Whitney on the map over and over in the eighties and nineties. Something that Hudson seemed to pull off tonight.
Drake introduced Nicki Minaj who served up the most embarrassing moment, that I can remember, in Grammy history. Her over-the-top badly theatrical lip-synched performance was hard to watch in that half-baked high school kind-of-way. As the cliche goes that's five minutes I can never get back!
Adele, again to no one's surprise, won Record of the Year and Album of the Year.
McCartney closed off the show with some Beatles classics. He was joined by Bruce Springsteen, Joe Walsh and Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters. Could it get any better? Easily one of the best Grammy nights ever - minus Miss Minaj. MORE
Whitney Houston Died in the Bathtub
February 12, 2011 – More information is surfacing concerning the death of Whitney Houston. Sources close to the investigation say that the singer was found in the bathtub at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles. Her face was underwater.
Houston’s stylist, hairdresser and two bodyguards were just outside the bathroom at the time of her death. The crew were set to help the singer prepare for the Clive Davis pre-Grammy party. After not hearing from Whitney for over an hour they became concerned. One of them knocked on the bathroom door but heard no answer. That’s when a female hairdresser opened the door and screamed when she saw Whitney with her face underwater and her legs were up. One of the bodyguards quickly pulled her out and attempted CPR. Unfortunately, the singer was probably already dead as her body was very cold.
After paramedics arrived they also tried, in vain, to save her live. She was pronounced dead at 3:55PM.
Sources also say that the singer was taking Xanax. When she had big performances it’s something she took to calm her nerves and last night she was set to perform a song at the Clive Davis event. Some are guessing that she may have fallen asleep in the bathtub and drowned.
Houston was also drinking a lot the night before she died.
It’s been reported that Whitney suffered from anxiety and panic attacks and had prescription pills to help nerves. Whitney Houston was just 48. MORE
Whitney Houston’s Mom Says The Singer Seemed Fine Before Her Death
February 11, 2012 – According to Whitney Houston’s mother, Cissy Houston, she spoke to her daughter just before she died and Whitney seemed absolutely fine.
The elder Houston says she spoke to her daughter about 30 minutes before she died. The pair talked about attending the Clive Davis (pictured with Houston) pre-Grammy party.
Whitney apparently spoke to her cousin, singer Dionne Warwick a few hours earlier today and says there were no signs of trouble. The pair also talked about the pre-Grammy party and how they both wanted to sit together.
Whitney was spotted outside a nightclub this week looked heavily intoxicated. There were also rumors that the singer was on the brink of bankruptcy.
Houston died at 3:35PM today at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. No cause of death has been released. MORE
Whitney Houston May Have Already Been Dead When Paramedics Arrived
February 11, 2012 - Whitney Houston died this afternoon. She was 48. Some sources are saying there was nothing the emergency workers could have done to save Houston’s life.
A member of the singers entourage found her in her room at the Beverly Hilton hotel this afternoon and immediately called hotel security, then 911 was called. According to some sources Houston was unresponsive by the time paramedics arrived.
Paramedics performed CPR but nothing worked. She was pronounced dead at 3:55PM.
According to Associated Press there were no signs of foul play in her room however a full investigation is underway.
Houston had a well-publicized battle with drugs for many years. MORE
Whitney Houston Dead at 48
February 11, 2012 – Whitney Houston has died according to her publicist. The singer, who was 48, passed away today according to Kristen Foster but it was unclear how the singer died. According to some sources, Houston died at the Beverly Hilton hotel.
Of course the Internet is abuzz on the cause of death being drug related but nothing has been officially announced.
Houston peaked in the 1980’s and ‘90’s with huge hits like "How Will I Know," "Saving All My Love for You" and "I Will Always Love You." She not only had one of the best voices in any genre but also won numerous accolades including 6 Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards and 22 American Music Awards. Needless to say tomorrow nights Grammy broadcast will no doubt be filled with Whitney tributes.
In recent years her career plummeted because of drug use, a Jerry Springer-type marriage to singer Bobby Brown and that brilliant voice seemed to be gone. MORE
Toto’s Steve Lukather Set to Join Ringo Starr's 13th All Starr Band Tour
February 10, 2012 – It’s no secret that Steve Lukather, like many of us, is a huge Beatles fan. It was announced this week that the Toto guitarist and founding member will join Ringo for the famous tour to begin in Niagara Falls Ontario on June 14th.
Lukather says, "I am deeply honored and excited to join some old and new friends and a musical hero Ringo Starr on this summers USA tour. It is a dream come true and I plan to being my best and enjoy every moment! Its gonna be massive fun!"
Also announced on the tour are Gregg Rolie of Santana & Journey fame along with All Starr alumni Richard Page, Todd Rundgren, Mark Rivera, and Gregg Bissonette.
Each musician gets to sing their classic hits and Ringo does his biggies including, "It Don't Come Easy", "Photograph", "Little Help From My Friends" etc.
The tour runs until July 21 at the Greek Theatre in L.A. but more tour dates are expected to be announced shortly. MORE
REVIEW – Van Halen – A Different Kind of Truth (***3 out of 5)
February 7, 2012 – Unwrapping this one might bring back Christmas-past memories of a re-gifting faux pas. As they say it must be a great gift if they are giving it back to you? Sure, you will feel a certain déjà vu with the new Van Halen album, “A Different Kind of Truth.” That classic sound is certainly there. The problem? This album is watered down. These are mostly old demos – tunes that didn’t make the grade the first time. There is nothing that sounds remotely like “Jump,” on this album, not even close. Though it’s somewhat unfair to compare anyone’s former greatness, especially when they peaked 28 years ago, it still needs to be said. So have Van Halen given you a gift that you gave back? It’s hard not to ask but for a comeback, that’s so important, why couldn’t the band start from scratch? Can Roth and Eddie Van Halen stand each other enough to write a freakin’ new tune?
First off, it’s great to hear David Lee Roth back with the band. He does sound like his former self, albeit without some of the edge, but lets remember he is 57. Noticeably absent is bassist and backing vocalist Michael Anthony who left (well, he was kicked out) after the reunion tour in 2006. I agree with many die-hard fans that this is not a true Van Halen reunion without Anthony’s contributions. I really miss his backing vocals, which were a bigger part of that classic sound than most people think. READ MORE
It’s “Van Halen Day” on Rock History Book – Check out the New Album Today – CLICK TO LISTEN
February 6, 2012 – It’s safe to say that Rock History Book Radio has tons of Van Halen fans listening everyday and it was a no-brainer to pronounce, today, “Van Halen Day!” All day hosts John Beaudin and Shannon Edwards will feature two tracks, every hour, from the new Van Halen album, “A Different Kind of Truth.”
In Fact, John and Shannon will do it all over again tomorrow for our second of two Van Halen Days. “On Tuesday we will play the new album throughout the day but will also feature more classic Van Halen,” says Rock History Book Radio host and Program Director John Beaudin. “Also expect to hear the whole new album in it’s entirety at 12-Noon (eastern),” adds Beaudin.
The new disc, as it turns out, is a rehash of some old demos polished off to 2012 standards and is the first full album with, original lead singer, David Lee Roth in 28 years. “Ok, this will not be the album of the year,” says Beaudin, “But it’s certainly a huge Rock-Event and we want to be there for the fans and, of course, the band.
Beaudin will feature a review of the disc later today on Rock History Book.
You can tune into Rock History Book Radio here. – By Kari Graham
Norah Jones to Release New Album in Spring
Jan 31, 2012 - Good news for all the Norah Jones fans out there! The singer is set to release a new album in spring called 'Little Broken Hearts.' This will be Jones' fifth studio CD and she will be joined by producer and musician, Danger Mouse who is notably the backbone for the project. He also co-wrote many of the tunes with her.
Jones will really be promoting this project with tons of shows this year. She is set to appear at many festivals including a stint at the Hollywood Bowl.
Though she has never out-performed her debut album, "Come Away with Me," from 2002, the nine-time-Grammy winner, with the famous rootsy voice, just keeps belting out the tunes. Norah insists on writing songs that speak to her soul more than returning to the same radio-formula hits of the past. MORE
Springsteen to Release Wrecking Ball in March
Jan 24, 2012 - Bruce Springsteen is full speed ahead with his new album due out in March. “Wrecking Ball” will be his 17th studio album and is produced by heavy hitter Ron Aniello (Patti Scialfa, Jars of Clay) and talent thrown in from Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machines) and members of the E Street band.
“The lyrics tell a story you can't hear anywhere else and the music is his most innovative of recent years,” Springsteen manager Jon Landau said in a statement, via Rolling Stone. “The writing is some of the best of his career and both veteran fans and those who are new to Bruce will find much to love on Wrecking Ball.”
The album’s title comes from a debut track that Springsteen and the E Street Band played at Giants stadium in 2009. The song “Land of Hope and Dreams” is another single that will resurface on the new album, a song that was first performed at their 1999 reunion tour. Sources say a world tour looks possible for the Boss and the E Streeters in March as well. Stay tuned! MORE
Paul McCartney to Perform at Grammy’s
January 24, 2012 - It’s a done deal as Paul has announced (via his website) that he will be preforming at the 54th annual Grammy Awards in L.A. on Feb 12. This is also a very special occasion for him as he’s nominated this year for Best Historical Album for Band On The Run. McCartney is definitely no stranger to the stage and if he wins this one it will be his 15th Grammy win in all.
Paul is keeping the pace steady leading up to the Grammy’s with his upcoming album release of “Kisses On The Bottom” scheduled to come out Feb 7th. This will be his fifteenth solo studio album and the fans are excited since his last album was almost five years ago.
McCartney has also been named the 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year and that is for recognition of a musician’s artistic and philanthropic efforts. Hats off to you Sir Paul! MORE
John Mayer Introduces New Custom Guitar
January 23, 2012 - John Mayer has been out of the spotlight since he cancelled numerous gigs last year to undergo throat surgery. His decision to finally go under the knife was necessary after attempts to rest his voice did not help. In the meantime, John had to regroup and push back the release of his new album.
He still continues to recuperate and although not 100% with his voice Mayer made his first public appearance attending the National Association of Music Merchants Conference in California to introduce his new custom made guitar with Martin, “Rolling Stone”reports. His limited edition of these six string guitars will be sold for $14,000 and only to select dealers.
John also has a new album “Born And Raised” due out later this year and this ties in nicely for him getting back in touch with his musical roots. MORE
Etta James Dies at the Age 73
Jan 20, 2012 - Etta James, an iconic R&B American singer known for her classic songs “ At Last” and “Something’s Got A Hold Of Me” has died today at the age of 73.
Recognition and appreciation has rolled in for James over the years. She was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2000 and in 2001 she was honored with a Grammy for Lifetime Achievement. Etta was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of fame in 2003.
Etta is survived by her two sons Donto and Sametto who are both musicians that performed in her band. MORE
Steven Tyler and Finding Mrs. Right!
January 19, 2012 - Steven Tyler of Aerosmith never ceases to amaze me. He sat in on an Ellen DeGeneres show recently and proceeded to explain why he decided over the Christmas holidays to marry girlfriend Erin Brady.
"The first time I saw her, she worked for Clear Channel, so she was paying the band," Tyler explained. "One night she had this hair band on around her head. She looked really old-fashioned. So I took her back in the room and she tied me up with it, and I thought, 'I'm marrying this girl.' Exactly that way."
So here you have it an accountant like Brady who shows off her unsuspecting naughty side and Tyler gets a revelation that she’s the one for him! Steven has also been in rehab a hand full of times and really hopes that married life with Brady will help him stay on the right path and not sway off track.
Being sober now for two years Tyler adds, "I don't want to go back to that place. That place lost me, my kids, a marriage, a band. A lot of things. And it's for real. That's how dangerous that is. So I take [my sobriety] seriously."
TMZ recently reported that Tyler's family are not too fond of Brady. Turns out the family doesn't think she's a very nice person. MORE
First off, Bon Jovi is not dead. Turns out the rumor was started via a reworked press release that was originally used for Michael Jackson’s death. Yesterday the story broke like wildfire, all over Twitter and Facebook.
Last night Bon Jovi joked about the incident at a concert in New Jersey. On his Twitter account he posted this message, "Heaven looks a lot like New Jersey.". Rest assured that Jon is fine!"
Gabriel will consider all paraphernalia for inclusion in the anniversary reissue’s booklet or on his website. “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.”
In a recent article from The Press Association, alcohol actually goes down smooth and tastes sweeter when loud music is playing and all the noise throws off your senses on how much of the bubbly you’ve actually consumed.
Psychologist Dr. Lorenzo Stafford at the University of Portsmouth did a study on why alcohol is sweeter in environments with loud music and he said of his findings:
“The study found that sweetness perception of alcohol was significantly higher in the music compared to control and other distracting conditions, which is a novel finding and to our knowledge, not seen previously. This is an interesting finding as we might have expected the music to exert a more distracting effect on taste judgment. It appears that our primary sense of taste is somewhat immune to very distracting conditions, but is indeed influenced by music alone. Although individuals might well expect to consume more alcohol in club type environments anyway, it is important they understand how environment can potentially influence over-consumption and act accordingly.”
I know what you are thinking you now have a great reason when you see your next concert why you can stagger away loaded. Shame on you! MORE
ZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons gave another update for fans to pine over with a new interview recently with Rolling Stone. He says that the hectic touring schedule has kept them out of the studio but when they get the chance they work hard with producer Rick Rubin.
"When you add up the days in the studio, it hasn't allowed us much time to do much else than plug straight into an amp and play as a trio,” says Billy. “We're still not afraid to experiment when time allows, but these are things that don't normally pop up in a ZZ session. It's just, go in and get it."
“Presently, it would be safe to say that by spring of the year 2012” is when fans can look forward to some new ZZ in their collection, according to Gibbons.
It turns out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ended up letting in seven of the total 13 acts nominated. Inductees Donovan, Laura Nyro, Freddie King and The Small Faces/ The Faces will also be rising to the occasion.
All of this will be wrapped up in this year’s ceremony scheduled for April 14, 2012 in Cleveland and tickets will go on sale Dec 17th. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will also be celebrating that whole week with special events and the impressive opening of their new library and archives. The word isn’t out yet whether Guns N’ Roses and Beastie Boys will be performing at the event but it looks promising for The Red Hot Chili Peppers since they are already touring the U.S. in 2012. MORE
The Doors producer, Bruce Botnick recently discovered the lost track “She Smells So Nice” while rummaging through the album’s session tapes for the reissue due Jan 24, Rolling Stone reports.
The two-CD set includes a bonus disc featuring covers of Willie Dixon’s “(You Need Meat) Don’t Go No Further” and Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want).” The second disc of the L.A. Woman reissue includes eight ‘never heard before’ versions of songs from the album.
“L.A. Woman” was The Doors 6th album and the last one recorded before Jim Morrison’s death. The album was released in April, 1971 and Morrison died in July, 1971.
Interestingly “L.A. Woman” was also the album that separated the band to their long time producer Paul Rothchild who didn’t like the bands direction. He was quoted as saying the project only had two good songs, the hits, “Riders on the Storm” and the title track. He later called the album “dog meat.”
Excited European fans can see Springsteen and The E Street Band from the middle of May until the end of July and the U.S. and world tour dates are still in the making.
The tour will be E Street’s first in three years and without the incredible presence of Clarence Clemons, who died last June from a stroke at age 69. There has been no word on who is going to fit in his shoes. Also, original keyboardist Danny Federici died in 2008 at age 58 from melanoma.
As for the new album? Springsteen says the band is “incredibly excited” for the new year and the music for the new album is “almost done” untitled, and with no release date yet determined.
The Boss and the boys are pumped about everything they are planning for 2012. We just have to stay tuned! MORE
According to Side Line Music Magazine, the CD is set to expire by 2013 and will be in motion to start elimination sometime into 2012. The only CD’s that will be out there will be limited edition prints from major record labels. Here we are now left wrapping our minds round streaming and digital download options with retailers such as iTunes and Amazon. The truly bad news is a digital download has inferior sound to a CD, so once again I guess speed kills.
The magazine tried to get a statement from some of the big labels to confirm the extinction of the CD and no one would come forward but some employees and associates of the labels said indeed things are in the works.
Here’s a double whammy too for Sting fans as he says they shouldn’t expect a solo album anytime soon either. Ouch!
Right now Sting is promoting his 25 Years box set, one-CD greatest hits album and iTunes app. “It’s hard to know what the new model is. I think the app is the new model,” says Sting. “People are going to stop buying CDs. People are going to stop selling and making them, so I am looking for different ways to get music to people, and the application at the moment seems to be the favorite.” Looks like Sting is just moving with the times. MORE
Enough is enough is what many people are saying about Kim Kardashian and her publicity-seeking clan. Well, maybe you can do something about it or at least get a message across.
Someone with the log-in name janesmith is targeting the Kardashian’s and E-Online. Here is her message;
I am asking people to sign a petition that will be forwarded to E! Online to request that the show ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashians’ ends.
Please sign. However, if you leave comments, no foul language, belittling etc should be used. Example, what you see on comment boards.
I need for everyone to post this link to Facebook.. Twitter.. Email. This will close November 30th. We need several thousand to be heard!
Also please forward this link. We need many signatures!
Lommi says the experience is “like putting on an old glove” and Osbourne pipes in that they have written seven or eight songs. These guys mean business! To help mark the 10th anniversary at next year’s Download Festival in England the band is already scheduled to make an appearance there.
Sabbath did try to bring a new album back into the works in 1999 but that fizzled out and the band was last seen together on stage in 2006 when they were honored into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. READ MORE
January 14, 2011 -
Aerosmith fans will be watching as Steven Tyler is about to get really comfortable in his seat for his second round of American Idol. Ever since he joined the panel for this vocal talent show last season Tyler says sales of Aerosmith’s back catalog has rose 260 percent. We all know he has much to talk about when it comes to American Idol, but let’s get back to your roots Steven!
January 12, 2011 - Eddie Van Halen has dug deep into his personal collection of guitars and has donated 75 of them to a non –profit organization that supports kids with musical education in schools. The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, as per Van Halen’s instructions, will bring these guitars to public school programs in the Los Angeles area where there is a shortage of instruments for the number of students participating.
December 20, 2011 – If death rumors are started to give us all freakin’ heart attacks then I would say mission accomplished to the jerk-ass who had us believe that singer Jon Bon Jovi was dead yesterday. As they say “oops, I crapped my pants!” 
December 19, 2011 - Peter Gabriel is leaving the book wide open for fans and colleagues to offer up any personal memorabilia, photos and even diary entries related to his “So” album over the years. The “Genesis” star is excited about putting a slant on things for his 25th anniversary edition of this classic album.
Dec 18, 2011- So you grab your friends for a night out on the town and you are pumped to watch your favorite band belt out their hits at a sold out concert. Ever wonder why you don’t think twice in pounding back a few extra beers or highballs while you are all rocking it out? 
Dec 12, 2011 - I’ve always wondered how long these guys would sport the long shaggy beards, but I have come to realize that those hairy love sculptures ain’t never going away and neither is their music! Huge ZZ Top fans have been waiting in anticipation for the release of a new album and the project has been talked about for a few years now. 
Dec 9, 2011- Well, after much consideration let it be known the class of 2012 inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have been announced. Congrats to first time nominee Guns N’Roses and previously nominated groups Red Hot Chili Peppers and Beastie Boys who all made the grade.
Dec 5, 2011- It is no surprise that today, iconic superstar Lionel Richie is set to receive from the Harvard Foundation at Kirkland House, the 2011 Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award.
Nov 28, 2011 - Oh no, is what I thought when the news came out that George Michael was recently stricken with respiratory complications in Vienna, Austria. It was so bad that George has to cancel his show two hours before it was about to start, get himself into an emergency room and looked at fast! 
Nov 30, 2011- This lawsuit might make sense if Playboy was built around watching men’s hairy butts. It appears that a man who attended the “Leather Meets Lace” party at the Playboy Mansion recently thinks the admission charge is unfair. 
November 22, 2011 - Well, what do you know! A newly found track by The Doors discovered just in time for the 40th anniversary reissue of the band’s 1971 release, “L.A. Woman.”
November 20, 2011 - Industry insiders are saying that the compact disc may be a thing of the past within 2 years! I remember when that little shiny disc wiped out the cassette tape and I thought that would never happen. 
Nov 16, 2011- Well, if you’ve got the main member of the band saying no then that’s a big fat no! In an interview with Billboard Magazine, Sting, vocalist/bassist of the band (that was most popular in the 70’s and 80’s) can’t see the trio getting back together again. “You know, it's something I am very proud of but I’m not sure there would be a reason to open it again except for nostalgic reasons, and I think we did that” in 2007-2008, he said. “I thought we did it very successfully. The timing was perfect. Everybody was happy to see us. So you know say, ‘OK, let’s close the book….”
November 16, 2011 – Want to get rid of Kim Kardashian? Take all the cameras out of the room. Your problem will be solved. 
November 16, 2011 - Let it be known that Black Sabbath gives full props to producer Rick Rubin for getting the band back together. Ozzy Osbourne, Tommy Lommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward confirmed that the rumors were indeed true. The band is in fact getting back together to hit the studios after Christmas to start recording their new album. Wow, the first album in 33 years and all this excitement is set for release in fall of 2012 and will of course coincide with a world tour. 
November 14, 2011 - Pete Townshend recalls the moment when Who band mate Roger Daltrey, punched him so hard with one strike that he lost his memory for two days! Can you say ouch!
November 14, 2011 - Whenever a band goes to reissue an album, we are always left wondering whether or not they will go on tour to promote it!
November 7, 2011 – Michael Jackson fans are cheering in the streets right now. Dr. Conrad Murray has just been found guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter.
October 26, 2011 – What’s worse than having a great product? Having a great product that no one knows about. Really, this happens to so many musicians and business people a like. Each year I see this marketing mistake play out with truly unbelievable talented musicians. I see great music projects fall by the wayside because marketing was not a priority. 
October 24, 2011 – Everyone has an all-time-favorite album. We hear about these everyday, “Sgt Peppers,” “The Wall,” or maybe “Born to Run.” Rock History Book radio plays almost every top album from the Rock era. We want to know yours!
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