Celeb Clutter from Nekesa

New Beyonce DVD ,,,

2010-11-09T15:14:00.002-05:00

If Beyonce is on hiatus, you'd never know it. She's putting out another live DVD, "I AM," after Thanksgiving, and in case you wanna see what you're getting before shelling out your $20, it will also be on TV as a Thanksgiving special on ABC. Of course, you can get a sneak peak here as well ...

New Black Eyed Peas ... here it go ...

2010-10-21T18:43:00.002-04:00

Found out the album is dropping Nov. 30 ... this takes, um, liberties, with the classic "(I've Had) The Time of My Life" from Dirty Dancing.

CANNOT. STOP. WATCHING.

2010-10-19T16:06:00.001-04:00

Mary J. And El Debarge at Radio City

2010-10-17T18:38:00.003-04:00

So I went to the Mary J. Blige and El DeBarge show the other night, and to be honest, I wasn't all that excited. It's not that I don't love both _ especially Mary _ but I'd seen Mary quite a few times, and honestly, didn't think that seeing her again would be all that different from previous concerts.

But I was wrong. Even though she sang many of the same songs and had even some of the same moves, she changed things up. More importantly, the passion of Mary that lifts you up remained the same. Seeing Mary is like going to church to see your favorite pastor: It's the same messenger, but the message always stirs your soul.

Check out the highlights here:

Doggies! Cute Doggies! and OK Go!

2010-10-04T15:46:00.001-04:00

Kanye... Always interesting, always entertaining ...

2010-10-03T16:19:00.003-04:00

Kanye and the lovely ladies of your local ballet school turn it out on "SNL" yesterday.

I Can't Front, this was hot ...

2010-09-30T11:55:00.002-04:00

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NEW KELLS!

2010-08-31T12:45:00.001-04:00

Or should I say, new R. Kelly that we can take seriously!!! His new song, "When a Woman Loves," is just a gorgeous, amazing retro groove that makes us remember there is talent behind the raunch. Check it out!

MJ'sBirthday Celebration in Brooklyn!

2010-08-29T19:52:00.003-04:00

Every day should be MJ day, but on what would have been his 52nd birthday, we really had to do it up _ and BK did MJ proud with Spike Lee's second annual celebration in Prospect Park. It was a six-hour party, with special guest Snoop Dogg (who was unnecessary with his crudeness, if you ask this MJ fan). But it was mainly family fun that brought out the inner MJ in all of us. Check out this chick doing MJ proud!

Cody Chestnutt at Weeksville

2010-07-11T23:15:00.002-04:00

I'm crazy late on my postings ... it's hard to keep up this blog and work! But I try, I try ... here is video of Cody Chestnutt performing at Weeksville in Brooklyn. Weeksville is a great cultural center and has great events in the summer that only asks for a small donation. Among those who have performed include Martin Luther and Tamar-Kali. Cody was great!!! Check it out!!

Shyne feat. Malcolm X - There Will Be Blood (Curtis Diss)

2010-04-26T14:58:00.000-04:00

Really? Has it come to the point where we are using inspirational black leaders in diss tracks? I can't ... I really can't ...

Shyne feat. Malcolm X - There Will Be Blood (Curtis Diss)

This video would have been so much better ...

2010-03-29T22:16:00.003-04:00

Had R. Kelly taken my suggestion and made it the theme song for Tiger Woods ... and interspersed images of Tiger and his alleged skanks. Instead, Kells looks like he crashed somebody's spring break freakathon to make this one ... if I had a college-aged daughter, I'd be a little worried. At least it's better than "Echo!" LOL ... check it out!

VV Brown at Ann Taylor Fashion Preview ...

2010-03-26T15:17:00.005-04:00

Ann Taylor had a swank party Thursday night at the ACE hotel, and stars like Rachel Bilson and that curvy redheaded chick from "Mad Men" were out to peruse the clothes, jewelry and other accessories that the fashion chain has in store for later this year.

But there was also some music to keep the guests entertained, courtesy of British singer VV Brown, whose debut album comes out in April. She only sang about three or four songs, but she made me curious to hear more ... good thing there was a CD in the gift bags they gave out!

Here's a little bit of her performance (and I do mean a little bit :)

Court Yard Hounds first NYC performance!

2010-03-23T15:44:00.003-04:00

Emily Robison and sister Martie Maguire brought their band to NYC on Monday night for an intimate performance at Joe's Pub, which was just perhaps their second or third public performance as the Court Yard Hounds. They are perhaps better known as two-thirds of the Dixie Chicks _ and will be performing with fellow Chick Natalie Maines this summer as part of the Eagles tour.

But their debut CD as the Court Yard Hounds comes out in May, and they proved Monday. that the duo is just not a side gig for them, but a true passion.

Here's a snippet of them performing ...

T-Pain, stop denying your true self!!!

2010-03-18T19:17:00.002-04:00

When this video first started, I thought T-Pain was joining the Red One bandwagon and doing something very Euro, hence the arty video. But this is classic, T-Pain, expressing his sexual longings via song much like his idol, R. Kelly. So make a "Trapped in the Closet"-like video, T-Pain! This is way too classy! These models, artistic vision ... so not T-Pain (Although he did get his Nuvo ad in there, ever so discreetly ...).

This song is so not subtle, and kind of crass ... which of course means I am going to put this on my iTouch immediately.

Lady Gaga and Beyonce's new video ... epic??

2010-03-12T12:00:00.002-05:00

That was the question put to Concrete Loop readers this morning, and I was surprised that even one person _ let alone 33 percent of folks _ agreed.

I think not. I love both Gaga and Beyonce, but ... I'm not sure I get this one. It's not something I'd ever want to watch again. But maybe that's the point, and maybe, with true art, there is a level of confusion and bewilderment and annoyance after viewing it. If so, this is a masterpiece.

Justin Bieber makes the girls scream ... again

2010-03-11T16:53:00.007-05:00

Nickelodeon had its annual upfront showcase to preview the hot projects it has upcoming, including its M. Night Shyamalan-directed movie, "The Last Airbender," and the new TV series about a performing arts high school, "Victorious." But really, who cared about all that when Justin Bieber was in the house?

The teenage heartthrob performed two songs for media, execs, and more important, a gaggle of young kids brought in for the event, and like Pavlov's dogs, they shrieked on cue when he appeared (though, thankfully, not as loud as they did at the Z100 Jingle Ball last year; my ears are still recovering).

Here's video of his performance, and some pictures!

Janelle Monae's New Music Dazzles

2010-03-05T12:21:00.004-05:00

So many artists are hyped, but few deliver on all the excitement when their music is finally unveiled. Janelle Monae is the exception. On Thursday night at the Rubin Museum, the pompadoured chantuese showcased the music on her debut album, "Archandroid," out May 18.

She didn't perform, but she did introduce the tracks, looking stylish in a black cape and white pants.

There were VIP's like Lyor Cohen in the packed house to hear the tracks, which are a psychedelic mix of funk, rock, soul with a Disney-esque slant. It's hard to describe, but amazing to hear.

Check it out yourself here! This is one of the first singles, "Cold War."

2010-03-04T12:16:00.003-05:00

Forget Ticketmaster. If you wanna see a hot show, the Apple store in Soho is a great bet. They have lots of top names, and on Tuesday, Corinne Bailey Rae graced their upstairs stage, performing to an audience that flowed over their seated area; there were lots of people standing up in the back as well.

Corinne did about a 40-minute set, mainly from her new CD, "The Sea," and enchanted the audience with songs like "I'd Do It All Again." She even had groupies _ well, very eager fans who kept squealing with every move she made.

The performance is going to be posted on iTunes soon, so check it out! This is a pic I shot from that night. :)

New Jack Johnson

2010-03-04T00:36:00.004-05:00

Jack Johnson is coming out with a new album in June _ but he came to NYC this week to play some of the music for a few lucky folk, and I was among them!

Jack previewed several songs from the album, titled "To the Sea," and later played a few songs, including "My Little Girl," dedicated to his newborn daughter. It's signature Jack Johnson music, with that beachy, mellow feel ... I'll post new music when it is released!

(note ... this is not a Celeb Clutter photo!)

Fishbone at Irving Plaza

2010-02-28T23:48:00.005-05:00

Fishbone has been around for over two decades _ in fact this year marks their 25th anniversary _ but I've never paid these pioneers too much notice, despite my husband's undeniable love for their music. But to broaden my horizons (and make the hubby happy) I went to their show Saturday night at the Filmore at Irving Plaza, and I gotta say, I really enjoyed it! I was up in the balcony so luckily I wasn't in the mosh pit getting pushed around, but it was as exciting from above as it seemed from below.

Here's a clip from the evening.

Black Eyed Peas Concert!

2010-02-26T20:23:00.004-05:00

Had a great time this week at the Black Eyed Peas concert ... MSG may never have vibrated so much!!! It was like a giant club, and a great party. Say what you want about their music, the BEPs know how to move a crowd.

Here's a snippet of the show!

New Black Eyed Peas ... Transform This!

2010-02-23T17:49:00.002-05:00

I am loving this new Black Eyed Peas video! how much did this cost to produce????

We Are The World Redux

2010-02-13T10:36:00.003-05:00

OK, since it's taking me forever and a day to post Grammy and Super Bowl stuff, I need to move forward and post what's happening now ... and that is the "We Are The World" sequel, featuring like 300 celebs. LOL. What is your take? Not sure I'm feeling this one as much as the original ...

Grammy Recap!!!

2010-02-02T22:33:00.003-05:00

I was so hectic during Grammy week I couldn't post! But there were some wonderful moments I'd like to share, so here is the first of a few! Jennifer Hudson performed a wonderful tribute to Barbra Streisand at Clive Davis' annual party ... here is a snippet of her singing "The Way We Were" as Babs was in the audience.

Corinne Bailey Rae's "The Sea" out today!

2010-01-26T13:20:00.004-05:00

Corinne Bailey Rae has been really open when talking about the death of her husband, Jason Rae, and how she has been trying to deal with his grief. When we spoke, she had many thought-provoking things to say:

"It just sort of takes ages to sink it. You feel it and then you don't feel it; you know what's happened and then you don't really know what happened. ...
"Somebody wrote me a letter saying that you need to surrender to it, which I was like, 'Well, how do I surrender?'"

Check out the rest of the interview here.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100126/ap_en_mu/us_music_corinne_bailey_rae

And enjoy a recent TV performance here!

Hope For Haiti Now _ Recap

2010-01-23T19:14:00.002-05:00

Although I stayed home to watch the two-hour "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon, I am sure a lot of people went about their normal lives on a Saturday night, which is too bad, because if so, you missed some amazing, though somber performances. Justin Timberlake's was among the most moving, but also amazing was Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce, Bruce ... I could go on and on.
Check out my article on it.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/nationworld/2010868399_telethon23.html?syndication=rss

I already purchased the live CD via iTunes, which goes to Haiti relief. Check it out (and go to hopeforhaitinow.org if you still haven't made that donation!)

Prince Fumble?

2010-01-22T15:19:00.003-05:00

Prince went to a Minnesota Vikings game for the first time in like, forever, and he was so inspired by his hometown football team he wrote this anthem in advance of their NFC Championship match-up with the New Orleans Saints.

I don't imagine this will inspire Brett Farve too much _ the chatter I've heard from Prince fans ranges from horror to embarrassment. I'm waiting to hear Weezy's Saints' anthem ...

Lady Gaga Owns Radio City

2010-01-21T22:56:00.003-05:00

Lady Gaga gave her first concert at Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday night, but it wasn't your typical concert _ call it more of a cabaret/visual art extravaganza. I saw her at Terminal 5 last year, and while her disco beats seem more suited for that small venue, it was on one of New York's grandest stages where Gaga truly shined. With a brashness to rival Madonna, a voice reminiscent of Christina A. and a charming vulnerability, Gaga owned the frenzied crowd from her first expletive (and there were many). This photo captures the fierceness of the night!

Happy New Music!!

2010-01-04T15:29:00.001-05:00

It's 2010, but Mos Def and Talib Kweli are going retro, reteaming for his new song, "History" ... check it out! And Happy New Year!!

Mos Def - New Music - More Music Videos

Sade Listening!

2009-12-15T17:54:00.004-05:00

There are very few artists who can put out an album every nine years or so, and still have people breathlessly anticpating their next project. Sade is one of those people, and on Monday night, she held a listening party for her latest, "Soldier of Love," which is due out on Feb. 8. I had the opportunity to talk with her briefly after listening to the music, which is classic Sade. Look up her new single, the title track, out now.

Corinne Bailey Rae in concert

2009-12-10T16:43:00.002-05:00

I got the chance to see Corinne Bailey Rae on Thursday night at Joe's Pub as she performed songs from her new album, "The Sea," out next month. I was surprised by how strong and soaring her voice was _ her mellow singing on the album masks her powerful voice. The new material is hot!

Check out my Nick Cannon interview!

2009-12-10T13:34:00.001-05:00

He talks about his chairman's role at TeenNick, their upcoming "Halo" awards and the Mrs., Mariah Carey.

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Watch live streaming video from aplive at livestream.com

My take on Chris Brown's new CD ...

2009-12-07T17:01:00.002-05:00

Chris Brown, "Graffiti" (Jive)
If you listen to Chris Brown's "Graffiti" in a vacuum, you will hear a solid, entertaining album, with a good balance of pillow talk, club grooves, heartfelt ballads and swagger anthems. The problem is, it's not great enough to make you forget about the elephant in the room.

www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/music/AP/story/1370249.html

Beyonce and Gaga ...

2009-11-17T14:07:00.003-05:00

Since everyone else is posting the Rihanna interview ...

2009-11-05T13:14:00.003-05:00

I'm gonna just focus on Trey Songz' new video, "I Invented Sex." I love his voice, loved his first few singles, and would like to say I love this, but I think he's trying a bit too hard to be R. Kelly Jr. Besides, I can't help but think about his recent Honey magazine interview every time I hear his voice, and belive me, that was not a flattering portrait (check the link below).

The Yankees are WORLD CHAMPS!!!

2009-11-05T00:24:00.003-05:00

Now, I know many of you are wondering _ what do the Yankees have to do with celeb clutter? Well, A-Rod is dating Kate Hudson, Derek Jeter is dating some C-list actress and shoot, most of them are more famous than your average celeb anyway. Plus, there was major star power rooting for the Yanks, from Jay-Z and Alicia Keys to Mary J ... who did a great job with the national anthem in the decisive Game 6 victory. She set the winning tone ... check it out!!

Worth the wait??

2009-11-04T13:24:00.001-05:00

So, what do we all think about this new video??? I like this song ... though I hope she lightens the mood up on this CD!

Football has some competition on Thanksgiving ...

2009-11-02T11:55:00.003-05:00

Typically I spend Thanksgiving evening unfastening my top button and catching some football, but now, I have another option! Beyonce is doing a Thanksgiving night special _ is this her "This Is It"? LOL ... check it out!

U2 Adapts To Changing Times, Laments Loss Of Obama Election Joy

2009-10-24T15:16:00.002-04:00

U2 Adapts To Changing Times, Laments Loss Of Obama Election Joy

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Rihanna's new single is out!

2009-10-20T11:48:00.008-04:00

What are you trying to tell us Kanye?

2009-10-19T16:26:00.002-04:00

Kanye seems like he's making a confession of some kind in this one ....

Taylor Swift at Madison Square Garden

2009-08-29T19:11:00.003-04:00

I knew Taylor Swift had loads of talent as a songwriter and a singer, but I had never seen her perform so I didn't know what to expect from the 19-year-old when I checked her out at Madison Square Garden. All I can say afterward is ... wow. She can really command a crowd, and her stage presence will only grow considering she's just 19. And the screams for her were deafening ... I still haven't recovered! This is a pic I took of her in full Sasha Fierce mode. LOL

New Ghostface!

2009-08-25T18:30:00.002-04:00

I gotta say, Ghostface is one of the most consistently good rappers out there ... he tells tales from the street without trying to glorify anything, he just seems real. He can also do tender (to a point), as this video shows. Raheem DeVaughn is in it too! Check it out!

This girl can dance better than me!

2009-08-12T00:21:00.002-04:00

Well, actually, most people can, but she can dance better than most adults I know! Check this out ...

Goapele!!

2009-08-10T15:53:00.002-04:00

Milk and Honey - Goapele from goapele on Vimeo.

I am really loving this song ... I can't wait to hear the CD!

Gone Too Soon

2009-06-29T20:18:00.003-04:00

I've interviewed just about everyone in the game in the music business, from Madonna to Prince to Beyonce to Dolly Parton to Jay-Z, but the one person I've always wanted to talk to was Michael Jackson. It was partly because of course he is _ or was (sorry, it's hard to get used to talking in the past tense about MJ) _ the world's greatest and most complex entertainer. But also, I was a huge fan. Not in the sense that I blindly saw MJ as a god, but really connected with him and believed in his magic.

So it was with a heavy heart that last week, I found myself working on his obituary. I really can't believe he is gone. Michael Jackson has informed my entire life with his music, and been such a focal point for things outside of music. He was so much more than the soundtrack to our lives.

I went to his parents' house the other day and snapped this picture of the growing memorial to him; it's still so surreal.

Here's a link to my appreciation of one of othe most unique characters to ever grace this planet.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/25/AR2009062504841.html

Jay-Z's "Death of Auto-Tune"

2009-06-08T16:02:00.003-04:00

By now most Jay-Z fans have heard the "Death of Auto-Tune" song he dropped on Friday ... so far I've heard mixed response. What do people think? I know he can't hate on Auto-Tuners that much since he came out on stage with the King of Auto-Tune, T-Pain, at Summer Jam ... Take a listen ...

Kenny Loggins' mini me: Crosby Loggins

2009-06-04T13:34:00.004-04:00

That might be a little bit unfair, actually ... Even though Crosby Loggins is the son of pop-soul man Kenny Loggins, he's got his own sound apart from his dad. And he showcased it this week at a showcase at Pop Burger in midtown Manhattan.

In front of a small group of journalists and an acoustic guitar, Loggins performed a few songs (including a weird one about a dog getting shot, which thankfully is not on his upcoming debut album).

Crosby talked about working with people like Brett Dennen and John Mayer, and recording the CD, "A Time To Move, which is out July 14.

Here's a few pics I took while he was performing. Enjoy!

Kanye kills it about 98 percent of the time ...

2009-06-01T16:18:00.003-04:00

I am listening to DJ Class' "I'm the S%#@!" and of course Kanye has the verse that makes the track stick in your head for hours and hours ... you may hate him but you can't deny that he usually kills it on record.

I wish his verse on the "Ego" remix was as good as this, but of course, you can't win them all, as Lebron James knows ...

For Realz, Pretty Ricky??

2009-05-27T23:24:00.002-04:00

I am on vacation so I saw this late ... and kind of wish I hadn't seen it at all ... dang ...

Taylor Swift Speaks!

2009-05-27T16:56:00.003-04:00

I recently spoke to Taylor Swift, and like always, she had some pretty interesting and insightful things to say. Here's what she said about dating in the public eye, especially after her public breakup with Joe Jonas ...

AP: These days, are you less likely to date someone in the public eye? (Swift had a public romance and breakup with Joe Jonas.)
Swift: When I'm thinking about going on a date with some guy or considering liking him, it really doesn't matter what they do or how that affects my career. ... When you strategize a relationship too much, like, "We're not gonna be public about it, and we're gonna say this in interviews," when you think it all out, I think that complicates the relationship and I think that's unfair for the relationship. I don't look for boyfriends, I don't really scour the awards shows for who I'm going to date (laughs), but I think love happens when you're not looking for it, and when it happens, I'm not going to be the one to overthink it.

Check out the entire article with this link below, and enjoy the "White Horse" video!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090527/ap_en_mu/us_music_q_a_taylor_swift

"This Is It" ... for now ... MJ Rehearsals

2009-05-19T12:20:00.001-04:00

I may be a bit naive but I am really hoping that Michael Jackson's historic shows in London will not only actually happen, but be so amazing that people finally start remembering him for his music than for all his baggage. This rehearsal tour video is promising ... but I don't think I saw MJ dancing in it. We shall see.

Do you know what today is? It's Green Day!

2009-05-15T15:08:00.004-04:00

Today is the day Green Day's highly anticiapted follow-up to "American Idiot" comes out _ it's called "21st Century Breakdown," and continues in the vein of the rock opera. Check out the video for the first single ... and get ready for the revolution.

Green Day - New Music - More Music Videos

Lenny talks "Let Love Rule"

2009-05-14T12:35:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that it's been 20 years since Lenny Kravitz released his first album. Back then, he was known as that dude who was married to Lisa Bonet. Oh, how 20years changes things!

Here's a link to an interview I did with him recently about "Let Love Rule," which is being re-released on its anniversary. And enjoy the video blast from the past!

http://tinyurl.com/pmq7t3

Ciara! Ciara! Ciara ....

2009-05-11T15:28:00.004-04:00

OK this is late as well, but, you know Ciara's CD dropped last week, and she was on Saturday Night Live this weekend as well, grooving and shaking it. "Fantasy Ride" hit a lot of turblence before it was released, with its date being pushed back again and again, but as CiCi told me recently, she thinks now is the best time for the CD's release.

Check out my pic of her and the interview I did below. :)

India.Arie wows ... again

2009-05-07T16:17:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone!

Forgive the lateness on this, I've been pretty sick! I blame hanging out too late at concerts for bringing it on, but in the case of India.Arie, it was worth it.

She performed at the Manhattan center last Friday, and was just amazing. It's pretty sad that she's becoming less and less mainstream the deeper into her career ... someone reminded me that it wasn't that long ago that she was headlining at Radio City ... now she's performing for like, 2000 peeps, if that.

Well, the general public is missing out, because India.Arie's music remains as powerful as ever. She performed songs of her latest CD, "Testimony, Vol. 2: Love & Politics," as well as songs from her other great CDs, including hits like "Video," "Brown Skin" and "I Am Not My Hair." She even caused a frenzy when she went into the crowd to sing!

Check out pics from the show!

Pete Seeger turns 90

2009-05-01T19:53:00.003-04:00

It's hard to think of someone more revered as not only a great musician but a great person in music than Pete Seeger.

The folk singer known for popularizing "We Shall Overcome" and writing songs like "Turn, Turn, Turn" turns 90 on Sunday, and the momentous occasion is being marked by a blowout, all-star concert at Madison Square Garden. I recently talked to Pete Seeger over the phone, and he was delightful to talk to.

Check out this story I wrote about it, and enjoy this clip from him singing with Bruce Springsteen during the Obama inauguration festivities.

http://tinyurl.com/dzbpw4

Maxwell's Return

2009-04-29T13:03:00.003-04:00

There are certain people who are so beloved that just the mere mention of their name elicits excitement and giddiness from their disciples. There's Prince, MJ, Sade ... and Maxwell. Now, I know Maxwell might not be in the same league to some, but he has a huge, dedicated following _ and that was demonstrated by the reception he had to announce his new album, "BLACKsummers'night." It's supposed to be coming out in July _ it will be his first CD in nine years.

There were all kinds of media folks in there, as well as random folks like Melyssa Ford, New York Giants' player Antonio Pierce and even former Met Dwight Gooden (the biggest questionmark of all attendees).

Maxwell didn't sing, but he did answer some questions. Check out the video I took above where he talks about him taking a break. It was a fun event!

I should be Mozart ...

2009-04-27T14:39:00.002-04:00

'Cause god knows I was picked on like crazy as a kid. And yet, I have no musical talent. So why is it that Prince became a genius after getting teased when he was little? Maybe that's why he's Prince and I'm me ... anyway, his Purple Badness explains how being bullied made him a strong artist in this clip from tonight's Tavis Smiley show, which airs on PBS. Check it out ...

Beyonce tops the box office!!!

2009-04-26T13:08:00.003-04:00

Sasha Fierce dominated the box office this weekend with "Obsessed"! The "Fatal Attraction" knock off did about $28 million and was the most popular movie in the country.

Now I am sure you all know that "Obsessed" didn't rate well in critics' eyes ... in fact, if you check Rottentomatoes.com, it shows that most critics pummeled this flick. But who cares about critics? I saw the movie and it was so much fun. Is it glorified Lifetime flick? Yes? Is it over the top and campy? Yes and yes. But I think Beyonce and everyone is in on the joke, and have delivered a mindlessly entertaining flick that's a complete guilty pleasure. Check it out, you will have fun!

Imogen Heap talks new music!

2009-04-24T14:25:00.003-04:00

I got invited to this intimate listening session for Imogen Heap's soon-to-be released CD. It's the follow up to her Grammy-nominated album "Speak for Yourself," which produced the great song "Hide and Seek."

The few tracks she played were intoxicating and dreamy ... I can't wait to listen to the whole thing. She was funny as always, joking about the crazy outfit she wore to the Grammys that year, and she also talked about plans to do some music with a dance troupe.

Here are a couple of pics from the evening. The CD is due to be out this summer.

Beyonce talks about new your, Etta and more ...

2009-04-20T16:01:00.003-04:00

I talked to Beyonce last month and she dished about why she doesn't twitter, that infamous fall and why she wasn't scared of no Etta James (LOL!). Above is a snippet of my video interview and this link is to the print interview.

http://tinyurl.com/cbbddy

An excellent movie everyone should see ...

2009-04-14T13:07:00.003-04:00

I recently checked out this movie, and I have to say it was amazing. It's a very well made film about a true case in Texas where almost half a town was locked up on drug charges; the cases were eventually thrown out. This movie tells the story through the eyes of a young mother, played by Nicole Beharie. She's a Julliard grad and a newcomer who really sets the screen ablaze in this movie. It also stars Alfre Woodard, Charles Dutton, and Xzibit.

Go check this one out, it's so worth it.

Universoul Circus _ Great Family Entertainment!

2009-04-13T14:34:00.004-04:00

I had the pleasure of going to the Universoul Circus the other night in Brooklyn, and while I have always enjoyed their shows, since it has been around for so long, I didn't expect to be too blown away. But I was wrong. They've totally changed the show since last year and it's so much fun _ and you don't have to be a kid to enjoy it. My favorite parts included the West Indian dancing routine and the acrobats, but it is really hard to choose just one or two parts ... it was all great.

Check out some of these pictures I snapped. We got a backstage tour, so we got to meet most of the performers, who were very gracious.

My interview Stevie Nicks

2009-04-09T16:13:00.002-04:00

Had a great interview with Stevie Nicks last month ... here's snippets of the video, and below is a link to the story I wrote. Really cool to talk to. :) The CD/DVD is also really cool, so you might want to check it out (and remember what she says, don't steal! LOL!)

http://tinyurl.com/comubm

New Eminem ...

2009-04-07T12:44:00.002-04:00

Eminem is back, taking pot shots at folks ... with new music. Maybe I need to hear this a few more times but so far this is not wowing me ... seems a little too much like a retread, especially the video. I'm waiting for the introspective Eminem stuff ... bring it Em!

Madonna seeks 'Mercy'

2009-03-31T12:05:00.003-04:00

Madonna has confirmed to The Associated Press that she is indeed trying to adopt a little girl from Malawi, this time a girl whose about 4 years old named "Mercy." Here's an excerpt of the story I broke today ...

MCHINJI, Malawi – Madonna said Tuesday that she was following standard procedures in her adoption of a Malawian girl, her first response to accusations that that she is using her fame to speed the process.
The pop superstar also took her 3-year-old adopted son, David, to meet his biological father for the first time since he left Malawi in 2006. She and David later visited the orphanage in Mchinji, a village near the Zambian border, where he once lived.
"Madonna is committed to maintaining an ongoing relationship with David's Malawian roots," said Liz Rosenberg in a statement Tuesday morning.

I can't wait to see pictures of Mercy. David has grown up so much in the last three years! He looks happy ... hopefully Mercy will be happy as well!

Prince on Leno!

2009-03-27T11:16:00.002-04:00

His purpleness did night two of his three-night stint on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" ... I think this one is off his new album. Are y'all gonna run over to target to cop that CD?

Madonna getting a Malawian playmate for David

2009-03-26T18:52:00.003-04:00

As The Associated Press was first to report on Thursday, Madonna is heading to Malawi to adopt another child, three years after taking home David Banda from the impoverished African nation. Word has it that she's eyeing to adopt a little girl. Here's excerpts from the AP story ...

Rumors that Madonna wanted to adopt a girl from Malawi have been circulating for some time. But the first official hint came from the star herself last week.
In an interview in Malawi's leading daily The Nation, the singer said she was considering another adoption but would only do it if she had "the support of the Malawian people and government."

If the adoption goes through, she would become a single mother of four. She also has an 8-year-old son, Rocco, with Ritchie and a 12-year-old daughter, Lourdes, from a previous relationship.

If she adopts her little child, will she be giving Angelina a run for her money? Angelina hasn't adopted a child in awhile now ... hmmmm ....

Ciara and Justin ... what do you think?

2009-03-25T16:04:00.002-04:00

Hopefully this will be the hit she needs to finally get this album released!

Chrisette Michelle at the Canal Room

2009-03-12T16:58:00.004-04:00

Chrisette Michelle is coming out with a new CD, "Ephiphany," later this month, and to preview it and hype it up, she performed at the Canal Room at a packed party hosted by Def Jam Chairman L.A. Reid. Chrisette won a Grammy and earned a gold album for her debut CD about a year or so ago, and is getting buzz with this one ... Check the video for her new song. And enjoy my pictures!

The career fates of Chris Brown and Rihanna

2009-03-12T12:26:00.003-04:00

People can't get enough of Chris Brown, these days, but unfortunately for him, they're more interested in following the scandal surrounding his arrested for allegedly beating Rihanna than his actual music. He had to bow out of Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards yesterday because of the firestorm and word has it T-Pain is recording a new version of "Freeze" without Brown in it.

But a lot of people are riding Rihanna for reuniting with Chris.

This is part of an article I wrote on the whole saga yesterday:

¶ Rihanna may endure a challenging road herself whenever she finally decides to relaunch her equally white-hot career. Already, she had seen her image transformed from pop's femme fatale to domestic violence victim whose decision to go back to her alleged attacker has been endlessly called into question.
¶ "What I think the caution is she has is not to let this incident define her. And I think that's the biggest risk to her career," said Bragman.
¶ An apparent reconciliation with Brown may only exacerbate that risk. Rap mogul Diddy confirmed he let the couple use his home to "talk about a situation they're in," and producer Polow da Don told the Los Angeles Times he was working with both stars on a duet (however, People.com, citing sources it did not name, said the couple has not yet recorded a duet that was penned for them to be included on Brown's new album.)
¶ "I think people are critical of her, saying, 'Oh my god, you're crazy, what are you doing?" said Cori Murray, entertainment editor for Essence magazine. "Then there are people who are like ... they don't want to pass judgment on her because they don't know the whole situation."

I've included a link to the whole article. It's a mess and it keeps on growing.

http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2009Mar11/0,4670,MusicBrownRihanna,00.html

Apparently Kanye knows who Keri Hilson is ...

2009-03-10T17:52:00.001-04:00

And from the looks of this video it seems like he "knows" her in the Biblical sense. LOL! She may not be Beyonce but she certainly has some high-profile stans ...

Laugh of the Day

2009-03-10T11:18:00.001-04:00

I love me some Mariah Carey but ...

2009-03-09T19:11:00.002-04:00

... she know she don't know nothing 'bout cornrowing a dude's head!! And she knows she would never let a pit bull inside her mansion in real life! I know this video with The-Dream is trying to prove that she's a down chick, but chill, Mariah _ you don't have to prove your cred anymore! We got you, girl!!!

KANYE WEST IS APPEARING ON IDOL!!!!

2009-03-06T18:57:00.002-05:00

VH1 TV Shows Music Videos Celebrity Photos News & Gossip

This news will actually make me tune in: Kanye is coming to American Idol on Wednesday's elimination show.

The Associated Press had this info today. Here's a snippet of the story:

¶ NEW YORK (AP) _ Would Kanye West be willing to give Anoop Desai a shot in the studio?
¶ Desai, a contestant on "American Idol," is hoping to meet West _ and talk about a future collaboration _ when West makes his first trip to the top-rated Fox series, performing his hit "Heartless" during Wednesday's elimination show.
¶ On this week's wild card round, Desai snagged the last spot _ lucky No. 13 _ in the finals.
¶ The 22-year-old college student from Chapel Hill, N.C., would appreciate style advice from West.
¶ "I'm definitely going to pick his brain _ we'll see if he has anything to lend me too," joked Desai, who loves R&B music and got the "Idol" audience moving with his performance of Bobby Brown's "My Prerogative."

To be honest, I don't even know who these contestants are ... I haven't really watched all season. I need to get my "Idol" on eventually though, so I am going to check it out. Wonder if Kanye's performance will equal his performance on "VH1's Storytellers"?

Comeback week continues ...

2009-03-05T19:28:00.005-05:00

This time, it's MJ putting on shows. He appeared in London today to announce a series of concerts at the famed O2 venue, and he told a screaming crowd that after those July shows, they wouldn't hear a "hee-hee" from him anymore.

This from the AP story on Thursday:

"This is it," Jackson said in a brief statement punctuated by the squeals of fans who gathered inside the massive O2 Arena in southeast London on Thursday. "And when I say this is it, I mean this is it."

Somehow, I doubt "it." Performers never stop performing until they're dead. But a Jackson performance is still a huge deal, so ... I may be making plans to go across the pond this summer.

Britney's Back!

2009-03-04T13:21:00.003-05:00

Britney Spears' first tour in five years is officially titled "The Circus" tour, but it really could be called the "Rehabilitation Project," because it's yet another attempt to rebuild the image and career of the former pop queen.

So far she has a platinum-plus album with "Circus" and at least two hit singles, but how did she do as far as her performance? Well, it looks like it was a good effort, but not great.

Here's a sampling of the reviews:

People's Chuck Arnold wrote:

Don't call it a comeback quite yet. Britney Spears still isn't all the way there. At least not from the standpoint of the kickoff concert of her much-anticipated Circus tour – her first trek in five years – at the New Orleans Arena Tuesday night. While she avoided the train wreck that was her 2007 MTV Video Music Awards appearance, a visibly nervous Spears, performing in front of enthusiastic fans near her Kentwood, La., hometown, never really hit her old stride.

The Los Angeles' Times' Ann Powers wrote:

Her singing was dominated by a backing track. Her moves were nothing special -- defined by much strutting and stripper-like shimmying, with the minimum amount of acrobatics to prove her mettle as a dance-pop queen. Her physical form, still beautiful, didn't take one's breath away the way it did when she was 17.But on Tuesday's opening night of her "Circus" tour at the New Orleans Arena, Britney Spears, the mighty Aphrodite with the troublesome tawdry streak, nonetheless renewed her claim as one of the world's most adept manipulators of the public interest.

And even Perez Hilton, part of the show via a video sequence, said:

Now, let's get our biggest gripe/problem with the show out of the way. Yes, she lipsynchs during the entire concert. There is no live singing. None!. She recorded vocals to "sound like" live, but they were all canned, pre-taped.
However, it's a Britney Spears show. You expect that!
Even though you expect it, though, it would be nice if at least a handful of the almost 20 song set were live. But, that's not gonna happen.
In exchange for the miming, you do get Spears doing what she does best, dancing. And she's got the moves again!

Based on those reviews, it looks like she would get a B-? It may not have been spectacular, but we're still looking forward to seeing her in Newark next weekend!

Prince hits the Target

2009-03-02T16:55:00.002-05:00

Target rush! Prince is releasing new music at the boxstore giant ... and here is the AP story I wrote about it. ...

NEW YORK – Prince is coming to a Target near you.

The superstar is releasing a three-disc CD set through the retailer at the end of this month. The set will include two new albums — "LOtUSFLOW3R" and "MPLSoUND" — as well as a third by his new artist, Bria Valente, for the price of $11.98.

Prince is just the latest music legend to release new music exclusively through a major retailer. AC/DC and the Eagles were among the acts who sold millions of CDs through their partnership with Wal-Mart.

Prince has released his recent CDs through major labels, but they were one-album deals that gave him the flexibility to go elsewhere when the project was done. Last fall, he released a coffee table book of photos titled "21 Nights" documenting his record-breaking, 21-night run at London's 02 Arena in 2007. The book also included a CD of live performances.

"Prince has long been renowned as one of the world's most original and iconic musical artists," said Mark Schindele, Target's senior vice president of merchandising. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to share his most recent work with our Target guests."

The CD set will be on sale at Target and its Web site on March 29.

____

Check it out!!

Whitney Houston's return ...

2009-03-01T22:40:00.000-05:00

OK, I know I am crazy crazy crazy late updating this blog, if anyone follows ... but the Grammys, and its craziness kind of prevented me from getting back to my beloved blog, so ... apologies! but I have some pretty lovely pics to make up for it. I was lucky enough to cover the annual Clive Davis pre-Grammy party, which brings out the A-list celebs from all walks of life (Paul McCartney, Prince, Taylor Swift, the Jonas Brothers, and Chris Brown and Rihanna _ pre-fight _ were in attendance.

There are performers every year (this year Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson and others were on the bill) but it was Whitney who was the star of the show, and she did not disappoint. She doesn't sound like 1989 Whitney, but she still sounds dang good.

Here are some pics of the performance!

Since many of us are in the Obama after-glow ...

2009-01-21T15:47:00.000-05:00

I figured I'd post this video of the lovely Beyonce singing to the president and first lady. ... such a beautiful moment!!! To me, this was more stirring than the actual oath!!! And Beyonce realized her dream that she told me in November, of doing anything for the inauguration. She didn't do just anything ... she may have provided one of the most magical moments.

Lil Kim won't be rushing to see "Notorious" ....

2009-01-14T00:02:00.000-05:00

I saw "Notorious" last week, and I loved it ... but of course, I'm not Lil Kim. I don't think she should have a problem with the movie, but she does have major beef with it ... check out the statement she gave to The AP this week, and Voletta Wallace's response, in this article.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090114/ap_en_mo/people_lil_kim;_ylt=Ap2LO5mKomJJhPYUVYSVS_txFb8C

Also peep the screenwriter and producer's reaction in the video.

New Katy Perry!

2009-01-08T15:26:00.000-05:00

http://capi001.edgeboss.net/qtime/capi001/katyperry/video/thinkingofyou/thinkingofyou_480x360_700.mov?siteid=cmg

Katy Perry definitely has a kitchy side, but some of the best songs on her album are when she tones down her wild side and just showcases her voice and songwriting talents. It's evident in her latest, "Thinking of You" ... check it out!

New Hot Music in 2009!

2009-01-06T17:09:00.000-05:00

OK, I have been way way way lame in 2008 with my posts to this blog, so my 2009 resolution is to post at least once a week (which is still lame, I know).

So to kick things off, here's a song that I cannot get out of my head ... I didn't even know this was Jamie Foxx! Check this out ... so irresistable. And dang, is there a hit T-Pain is not involved in??

Beyonce at the 'Today' Show

2008-11-26T10:56:00.000-05:00

When I first heard this song, I was so not impressed _ disappointed, actually. But after two listens, it grew on me (once I finally got to listen to the lyrics). And now, it is one one of my favorites! I can't get enough of it! Hence, me posting this video ... Happy pre-Turkey day!

TRL Bites the Dust ...

2008-11-17T16:02:00.000-05:00

Man, remember the good old days, when "TRL" was hot? When we knew the Backstreet Boys were the next Beatles, when Britney Spears was a virgin, and when Christina Aguilera was a fresh-faced young cherub?

Well, those innocent, fun days were revisted Sunday, Nov. 16 when "Total Request Live" bid farewell to the airwaves with a three-hour extravagnza that featured Aguilera, Justin, Beyonce, and a bunch of other superstars who owed much of their success to "TRL."

I took some snapshots while reporting ... here are some of the photos, along with a link to my story.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081117/ap_en_ot/music_trl_finale;_ylt=AtnKqO9D7afWYz9cyz5EZxtBr7sF

will.i.am's Barack song

2008-11-11T17:41:00.000-05:00

R. Kelly gets in on the Love Lockdown!

2008-11-11T12:36:00.000-05:00

Of course Kells had to get in on the remix ...

Beyonce Hearts Barack

2008-11-07T14:15:00.000-05:00

Photo by Nekesa Moody

I spoke recently to Beyonce and she gushed over Barack Obama, praising him as a father, a leader, a future president ... she was so excited she even wore a suit in honor of the president elect, with red, white and blue stilettos.

I spoke to her about her upcoming album, but she said she was almost embarrassed to talk about her project when something so momentous as Obama's election was going on. She and her hubby joined stars like Mary J. Blige and Diddy on rallies for Obama, and says she's so glad she was a part of it.

Here's the article I did on her ... check it out!

Beyonce gushes with pride after Obama election
By NEKESA MUMBI MOODY, AP Music Writer Nekesa Mumbi Moody, Ap Music Writer Thu Nov 6, 11:25 am ET
NEW YORK – Attention, Mr. president-elect: Come Inauguration Day, Beyonce is at your service.
"I'm there. I can't wait. I feel like all of us, we're ready to do whatever we have to do. Whatever they want — if they need me to volunteer, they need me to sing, I'm there, and I'm ready," a giddy Beyonce said in an interview the day after Barack Obama made history in becoming the nation's first elected black president.
The singer couldn't stop beaming after Obama's win over Republican John McCain on Tuesday. In fact, she was so inspired, she wore a blue suit and tie in honor of Obama — with stiletto heels that were red, white and blue.
"I've never been so patriotic!" she laughed. "I'm just beyond excited."
Beyonce was supposed to be in Japan on Election Night to promote her upcoming album, "I Am ... Sasha Fierce," but decided to postpone it at the last minute.
"I said, 'What am I doing? I'm completely making a bad decision. I have to go home, I'm gonna kill myself if I'm not home in America,'" she said. "I knew I needed to be here."
After going with hubby Jay-Z, Diddy, Mary J. Blige and others to states like Pennsylvania, Florida, and Ohio just before the election, she watched the returns Tuesday night with family and friends in her home. She was not only inspired by Obama, but McCain's concession as well: "McCain's speech was so classy."
The 27-year-old said the win was particularly important for the inspiration it gave to African-Americans.
"My nephew, who is 4, when we say, 'You can do whatever, you can be whatever,' it's not cliche. You have no doubt that it's not true," she said.
The election even brought Beyonce to tears, though she says it was the good kind: "I fell asleep crying and smiling at the same time," she laughed. "I woke up with mascara running and a smile on my face!"
___
On the Net:
http://www.beyonceonline.com

Fitty's new show ....

2008-11-06T23:36:00.000-05:00

He may be getting as rich as Donald Trump, but 50 doesn't want his new show on MTV to be compared to The Donald's reality show. I spoke to 50 recently about his business-oriented reality show _ and a few other subjects _ and he made it clear that it wasn't another "Apprentice" or "I Want to Work for Diddy." Did anyone watch? Check out this article I wrote about it. Here's a pic of 50 looking suave that I took after our interview. More to come from that session later.

http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2008Nov05/0,4670,People50Cent,00.html

Presidential Politics!!

2008-11-03T12:51:00.000-05:00

If Mos Def Were President by GOOD Magazine
For those few people who aren't stirred up about tomorrow's election, maybe Mr. Def can move you ... with this humorous take on what he would do if he would be president. He gets my vote! I hope everyone is geared up to vote tomorrow (if you haven't already)!

The Jennifer Hudson Tragedy

2008-10-27T22:46:00.000-04:00

I've interviewed Jennifer Hudson twice. The first time was just before the release of "Dreamgirls," and the last time was just a month ago, when she was releasing her self-titled, debut CD. Each time, she's been sweet, gregarious, and just a pleasure; I always thought about how proud her mother must be of her.

So it is particularly painful to learn about the triple tragedy that took the lives of her mom, her brother and her 7-year-old nephew. I can't imagine the terror that little boy went through, and I just don't know why such evil happens to anyone, especially an innocent like him.

This is a difficult story to cover. I covered it the day the story broke, and again with this story today. I wish I never had to write such a story.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/166028

Billboard's Women in Music Breakfast

2008-10-27T22:34:00.000-04:00

Billboard held it's annual "Women in Music" breakfast at the St. Regis Hotel last Friday, and besides naming the 20 power execs in music, they honored Ciara, Colbie Caillat and Deborah Harry. Harry got the icon award _ she told the crowd that she dyed her hair blonde (hence the name of her group, Blondie) because she wanted to be a movie star. But she says that painting is her true passion.

Colbie, best known for her hit "Bubbly," said that she's learned how to become a better performer in the year since she's become a platinum success.

And Ciara, whose third album is due out early next year, talked about becoming a multiplatform star, with a straight-to-DVD release of her movie "Mama I Wanna Sing," along with her recent modeling contract and even plans for an exercise video (her body was looking incredibly tight, so she definitely could teach us ladies a thing or two).

Here's some pics from the day!

Prince's Jam Session in NYC

2008-10-19T22:46:00.000-04:00

I've had a lot of great experiences writing about music, and Prince is at the top of the list. I've interviewed him and seen him perform, and last week, got a treat as I watched five hours of Prince jamming onstage. Now, it wasn't all at once _ he performed one show for a small group of people at a loft at the Ganesvoort hotel in NYC, then another, but it added up to more than five hours _ I didn't get home till 5 a.m. We weren't allowed to take any pics, but here's a photo I snapped of the purple candle that was burning all night!

"There are not enough panties on my stage tonight ..."

2008-10-12T12:21:00.000-04:00

AP Photo

That comment alone tells you what kind of mood Maxwell was going for in his comeback concert at Radio City Music Hall on Thursday _ the first time fans have heard his smooth tenor in several years. The suaveness that is Maxwell was on full display, as he made the ladies squeal by singing classics like "Sumthin Sumthin," "Don't Ever Wonder" and my personal favorite, "Fortunate." He also displayed a few new songs _ the standout was "Pretty Wings." You can hear a snippet of it on his MySpace page (myspace.com/maxwell). It's off his new CD, "Black Summers' Night," which is out sometime early next year.

I interviewed Maxwell a couple of weeks before the concert ... check out http://www.freep.com/article/20081011/ENT04/810110343this article and also the video from it.

Raphael Saadiq at S.O.B.'s

2008-10-09T12:57:00.000-04:00

Raphael Saadiq has a new record out, "The Way I See It," where the R&B veteran borrows from the Motown sound. It's like a time warp, and from what I understand, he used some of the very musicians that helped craft the legendary label's key hits.

Saadiq brought that old-school sound to his show at S.O.B.'s on Monday, but it wasn't all about the new stuff: He kept the audience members happy by not only singing those classic Toni! Tony! Tone! hits (like "It Never Rains in Southern California," "Me & You," "It Feels Good," etc_ but his own hits and that great Lucy Pearl song.

The night's biggest surprise? His physique! He took of his shirt and dang if he wasn't ripped!!! Who knew??

Jazmine Sullivan's "Bust Your Windows"

2008-10-09T10:58:00.000-04:00

I love love love this song, but a lot of men (OK, two I know) were so put off by it that they didn't even wanna listen to the rest of Jazmine's amazing album _ a bad thing, since it kicks off the CD. Give it a chance guys! If you ain't guilty, why do you need to worry about the scenario anyway! LOL!

Madonna's "Sweet" Tour

2008-10-05T20:30:00.001-04:00

I was a little worried about going to Madonna's "Sticky & Sweet" tour kickoff at East Rutherford last night. Her last tour, 2006's "Confessions," was a disappointment to me, and I was worried that two years later, she would only get worse, not better. But I was completely totally wrong and totally blown away!

Check out my review.
http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory?id=5957629

Pop Champagne!

2008-10-04T01:00:00.000-04:00

I really think the Grammy for best new artist next year needs to go the vocoder. Though the vocoder ain't really new, it has transformed urban music since T-Pain came on the scene, and daggone if every brother ain't using it. Shoot, if Luther was alive today, we might even be hearing him sing "A House is Not A Home" with vocoder assistance (I keed, I keed!).

The vocoder is one of the things that makes this song SO DANG HOT, but not the only thing ... the drumbeat on this is INSANE! I wanna go dancing after hearing this righgt now, and I am in my pajamas!!!