As international agents and festival organizers meet in Beijing for a showcase festival, many Chinese bands unknown outside of the country will make their sounds heard around the world.
Sound of the Xity - the China Music Conference and Showcase Festival will be held in Beijing from April 3 to 7, with performances by more than 60 bands and two days of conferences on the music industry.
Participants will include Jason Mayall from Japan's Fuji Rock Festival, Annette Tripodi from WOMAD (World of Music, Arts & Dance), and Christoph Borkowsky from WOMEX (the World Music Expo).
"We expect that Chinese bands will get opportunities for overseas tours through Sound of the Xity, and international bookers will get to know more about the Chinese music scene," says Zhang Ran, CEO of SX Music, the festival presenter.
Sound of the Xity was inaugurated last year, when 56 pop, rock and world music acts performed in Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an.
Jung Hun-lee, artistic director of Korea's Ulsan World Music Festival, selected two Chinese bands, Whai and Pet Conspiracy, to perform in Ulsan after seeing them in Beijing.
"Whai is a rock band with Chinese aesthetics, while Pet Conspiracy combines Chinese and Western music styles and is of international caliber," says Lee, who is also coming to this year's festival.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Harrison Ford on a 'Stars Wars' Reunion
Harrison Ford thinks the much-anticipated Star Wars reunion will happen after all, as he explained in a recent interview with Chicago's WGN 9 News. "I think it's almost true. I'm looking forward to it," said the actor who portrayed space cowboy Han Solo in the original trilogy. "It's not in the bag yet, but I think it's happening."
Rumors of a cast reunion have been circulating since Disney purchased Lucasfilm and the Star Wars franchise last October. With J.J. Abrams attached to direct, the in-progress Episode VII is slated for a 2015 release, with two more installments plus stand-alone films planned for the future. Ford, along with his co-stars Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher (Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia, respectively), have all expressed interest in reviving their beloved characters.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg Businessweek, series creator George Lucas mentioned he'd already signed the trio to return before the Disney deal went down. "We had already signed Mark and Carrie and Harrison – or we were pretty much in final stages of negotiation," Lucas said. "Maybe I'm not supposed to say that. I think they want to announce that with some big whoop-de-do, but we were negotiating with them."
Rumors of a cast reunion have been circulating since Disney purchased Lucasfilm and the Star Wars franchise last October. With J.J. Abrams attached to direct, the in-progress Episode VII is slated for a 2015 release, with two more installments plus stand-alone films planned for the future. Ford, along with his co-stars Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher (Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia, respectively), have all expressed interest in reviving their beloved characters.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg Businessweek, series creator George Lucas mentioned he'd already signed the trio to return before the Disney deal went down. "We had already signed Mark and Carrie and Harrison – or we were pretty much in final stages of negotiation," Lucas said. "Maybe I'm not supposed to say that. I think they want to announce that with some big whoop-de-do, but we were negotiating with them."
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Spider Man Musical Lawsuit Gets Court Date
U2's Bono and the Edge, director Julie Taymor and the other producers of the Broadway musical Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark will meet in court on May 28th to settle a legal battle over the infamous show.
Taymor, who co-wrote the script and was the musical's first director, initially filed suit against the show's producers, plus composers Bono and the Edge, in November 2011 after they fired her from the disastrous, injury-prone show in March, the New York Times reports. Taymor filed a copyright suit claiming the producers were making money off her ideas and script and that she was owed $1 million. The producers countersued, claiming she had been fired for breach of contract.
Judge Katherine B. Forrest set the New York court date after four days of closed-door sessions that failed to produce any sort of settlement over copyright control and profits, despite coming to terms in principle in August. What's more, last February, both parties reportedly settled their dispute over Taymor's firing, with the producers withdrawing their breach of contract claim and allotting Taymor full royalty fees for her work.
Taymor, who co-wrote the script and was the musical's first director, initially filed suit against the show's producers, plus composers Bono and the Edge, in November 2011 after they fired her from the disastrous, injury-prone show in March, the New York Times reports. Taymor filed a copyright suit claiming the producers were making money off her ideas and script and that she was owed $1 million. The producers countersued, claiming she had been fired for breach of contract.
Judge Katherine B. Forrest set the New York court date after four days of closed-door sessions that failed to produce any sort of settlement over copyright control and profits, despite coming to terms in principle in August. What's more, last February, both parties reportedly settled their dispute over Taymor's firing, with the producers withdrawing their breach of contract claim and allotting Taymor full royalty fees for her work.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Academy Award winning composer Tan
Academy Award-winning composer Tan, who heard the duo's arrangement on one of their CDs, says that he was surprised that Chinese songs and the guitar could be a perfect match.
For Wang, the guitar comes to life in a blend of Chinese and Western music elements.
Barrueco also composed a song, a new transcription of composer Chen Yi's China West, which was originally written for two pianos. It will be recorded on Beijing Guitar Duo's third album, which they plan to release this year.
"My father kept telling me that the sound of guitar is the most beautiful sound in the world," recalls Wang, who came from Qingdao, Shandong province.
A turning point for her came one day in March 1992. Her father took her to Beijing Concert Hall, to see a guitar performance by 15-year-old Yang Xuefei and 14-year-old Bai Pu - a magical program of Bach, Paganini and Tarrega.
Afterward, the little girl told her father: "I want to be like them, playing such beautiful sounds."
For Wang, the guitar comes to life in a blend of Chinese and Western music elements.
Barrueco also composed a song, a new transcription of composer Chen Yi's China West, which was originally written for two pianos. It will be recorded on Beijing Guitar Duo's third album, which they plan to release this year.
"My father kept telling me that the sound of guitar is the most beautiful sound in the world," recalls Wang, who came from Qingdao, Shandong province.
A turning point for her came one day in March 1992. Her father took her to Beijing Concert Hall, to see a guitar performance by 15-year-old Yang Xuefei and 14-year-old Bai Pu - a magical program of Bach, Paganini and Tarrega.
Afterward, the little girl told her father: "I want to be like them, playing such beautiful sounds."
Friday, March 15, 2013
The Boss plays a note of caution on economic sway
Bruce Springsteen is playing a note of caution about his political influence over Australian economic policies.
Springsteen and his E Street Band opened their Wrecking Ball Tour to enthusiastic reviews in Brisbane, the hometown of Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer Wayne Swan, who revealed in a speech last year that The Boss had long been his political inspiration.
Swan said the New Jersey-born working-class hero's musical railings against inequality echoed his own public battle against Australian billionaire mining tycoons who oppose his tax reforms.
When told at a news conference Thursday that Swan had cited his musical idol as an influence on his center-left government's economic policies, Springsteen urged caution.
"Really? You better watch out there," Springsteen joked. "I'm not sure how good I am with my money."
He added, "I hope it's been a positive influence, that's all I can say."
Swan was named by banking magazine Euromoney as the world's finance minister of the year for 2011 for helping steer Australia clear of recession during the global economic meltdown. He is attending the final two-week session of Parliament in Canberra before he releases his annual budget blueprint on May 14 and has revealed that the annual ritual involves him playing Springsteen's hit single "Born to Run."
Springsteen and his E Street Band opened their Wrecking Ball Tour to enthusiastic reviews in Brisbane, the hometown of Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer Wayne Swan, who revealed in a speech last year that The Boss had long been his political inspiration.
Swan said the New Jersey-born working-class hero's musical railings against inequality echoed his own public battle against Australian billionaire mining tycoons who oppose his tax reforms.
When told at a news conference Thursday that Swan had cited his musical idol as an influence on his center-left government's economic policies, Springsteen urged caution.
"Really? You better watch out there," Springsteen joked. "I'm not sure how good I am with my money."
He added, "I hope it's been a positive influence, that's all I can say."
Swan was named by banking magazine Euromoney as the world's finance minister of the year for 2011 for helping steer Australia clear of recession during the global economic meltdown. He is attending the final two-week session of Parliament in Canberra before he releases his annual budget blueprint on May 14 and has revealed that the annual ritual involves him playing Springsteen's hit single "Born to Run."
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Modern singers lack stamina
Modern-day singers lack commitment and stamina compared to previous generations of performers, the music director of London's Royal Opera House said Wednesday.
Speaking at the announcement of the company's 2013-2014 season, Antonio Pappano said singers "are either weaker in their bodies or don't care," and need more periods of rest than previous generations.
His comments come in the wake of several high-profile pullouts from Royal Opera House productions this season.
Later, Pappano told the BBC that young singers are "faced with tremendous pressure ... PR pressure, image pressure, but also vocal pressure."
He also said modern productions, which are often filmed for broadcast, demand more rehearsal from performers. Travel and promotion duties also take a toll, he added.
"They are expected to sing more in the rehearsals, the rehearsals are longer, cutting of operas, which used to be a big tradition, is no longer seen in a favorable light," he said. "So they are singing much longer versions of the operas, even the popular ones. Maria Callas never sang a whole 'Traviata' in her life."
Speaking at the announcement of the company's 2013-2014 season, Antonio Pappano said singers "are either weaker in their bodies or don't care," and need more periods of rest than previous generations.
His comments come in the wake of several high-profile pullouts from Royal Opera House productions this season.
Later, Pappano told the BBC that young singers are "faced with tremendous pressure ... PR pressure, image pressure, but also vocal pressure."
He also said modern productions, which are often filmed for broadcast, demand more rehearsal from performers. Travel and promotion duties also take a toll, he added.
"They are expected to sing more in the rehearsals, the rehearsals are longer, cutting of operas, which used to be a big tradition, is no longer seen in a favorable light," he said. "So they are singing much longer versions of the operas, even the popular ones. Maria Callas never sang a whole 'Traviata' in her life."
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Smashing Pumpkins to Play SXSW
Add one more band to the list of big names playing SXSW: the Smashing Pumpkins will hit downtown Austin on Saturday, March 16th, for Red Bull's showcase, Sound Select: 120 Hours. Also on the bill are the Sword and Girl in a Coma. The show will happen in downtown Austin, with the exact location being revealed the morning of the show via the Twitter handle @rbsoundselect. Tickets will be free.
The Pumpkins will kick off their U.S. tour supporting last year's Oceania on April 29th in Melbourne, FL, part of a six-month world trek that hits Japan, Mexico and more.
Green Day, Dave Grohl’s Sound City Players and the Stooges are among the other major acts hitting Austin for SXSW this year.
The Pumpkins will kick off their U.S. tour supporting last year's Oceania on April 29th in Melbourne, FL, part of a six-month world trek that hits Japan, Mexico and more.
Green Day, Dave Grohl’s Sound City Players and the Stooges are among the other major acts hitting Austin for SXSW this year.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Old friends turn out for Mindy McCready memorial
Mindy McCready's time in Nashville was filled with music, and her memorial service in Music City reflected that.
Old friends Bryan White, Lorrie Morgan and Bekka Bramlett sang for McCready and family members spoke about her difficulties and triumphs during the hour-long remembrance Wednesday at the Cathedral of the Incarnation.
"She achieved many of her dreams with No. 1 records and fame," said singer Lorrie Morgan, a former label mate of McCready's. "But we all know fame and fortune do not ensure happiness."
The Nashville memorial attended by about 200 comes two weeks after her funeral in her hometown of Fort Myers, Fla.
McCready shot herself last month on the front porch of the home she once shared with her fiance, David Wilson, in Heber Springs, Ark., authorities have said. That's the same spot where Wilson, the father of her second son, committed suicide a month earlier.
Old friends Bryan White, Lorrie Morgan and Bekka Bramlett sang for McCready and family members spoke about her difficulties and triumphs during the hour-long remembrance Wednesday at the Cathedral of the Incarnation.
"She achieved many of her dreams with No. 1 records and fame," said singer Lorrie Morgan, a former label mate of McCready's. "But we all know fame and fortune do not ensure happiness."
The Nashville memorial attended by about 200 comes two weeks after her funeral in her hometown of Fort Myers, Fla.
McCready shot herself last month on the front porch of the home she once shared with her fiance, David Wilson, in Heber Springs, Ark., authorities have said. That's the same spot where Wilson, the father of her second son, committed suicide a month earlier.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Iggy and the Stooges Ignite with New Single
Iggy and the Stooges have released "Burn," the first single from their upcoming record, Ready to Die – a grinding, thumping punk cut that finds Iggy Pop delivering a hypnotic bellow over wire-cutter guitar riffs.
Out April 30th on Fat Possum, Ready to Die is being pegged as the band's follow-up to 1973's seminal Raw Power (though the Stooges released The Weirdness in 2007). The album will feature original members Pop, guitarist James Williamson and drummer Scott Asheton, with Mike Watt taking over bass for Ron Asheton, who passed away in 2009.
The band is set to preview a handful of Ready to Die cuts at the House of Vans Showcase at Mohawk during SXSW on March 13th, after which they'll head overseas for a handful of shows before returning stateside later in the summer.
Out April 30th on Fat Possum, Ready to Die is being pegged as the band's follow-up to 1973's seminal Raw Power (though the Stooges released The Weirdness in 2007). The album will feature original members Pop, guitarist James Williamson and drummer Scott Asheton, with Mike Watt taking over bass for Ron Asheton, who passed away in 2009.
The band is set to preview a handful of Ready to Die cuts at the House of Vans Showcase at Mohawk during SXSW on March 13th, after which they'll head overseas for a handful of shows before returning stateside later in the summer.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Berklee College of Music
Imagine Dragons had been building a buzz on the music scene as an independent act before Alex da Kid got hold of them. They released four EPs and toured America. Lead singer Dan Reynolds said the group was "dead set" on being an independent act.
"We had offers from those labels all throughout the years and we turned them down," he said. "It was so important that we built that organic, independent fan base."
Three of the band members met while "playing jazz together a lot" at the Berklee College of Music.
"I just didn't think I'd ever play with them again to be honest. I hoped that I would someday," said guitarist Wayne Sermon (bassist Ben McKee and drummer Dan Platzman round out the group). "I called (Reynolds) and he had eight credits left before he could graduate and get his degree, but apparently he didn't care much about that, so he just actually left and dropped everything and came to Vegas."
Meeting Alex da Kid, born Alexander Grant, changed his perception about staying independent. He says the producer filled a void in the band's sound.
"We had offers from those labels all throughout the years and we turned them down," he said. "It was so important that we built that organic, independent fan base."
Three of the band members met while "playing jazz together a lot" at the Berklee College of Music.
"I just didn't think I'd ever play with them again to be honest. I hoped that I would someday," said guitarist Wayne Sermon (bassist Ben McKee and drummer Dan Platzman round out the group). "I called (Reynolds) and he had eight credits left before he could graduate and get his degree, but apparently he didn't care much about that, so he just actually left and dropped everything and came to Vegas."
Meeting Alex da Kid, born Alexander Grant, changed his perception about staying independent. He says the producer filled a void in the band's sound.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Rogers founder of Motown group The Miracles dies
Bobby Rogers, a founding member of Motown group The Miracles and a songwriting collaborator with Smokey Robinson, died Sunday at his suburban Detroit home. He was 73.
Motown Museum board member Allen Rawls said Rogers died about 6 a.m. in Southfield. Rogers had been ill for several years.
Rogers formed the group in 1956 with cousin Claudette Rogers, Pete Moore, Ronnie White and Robinson. Their hits included "Shop Around," ''You've Really Got a Hold on Me," ''The Tracks of My Tears," ''Going to a Go-Go," ''I Second That Emotion" and "The Tears of a Clown."
"Another soldier in my life has fallen. Bobby Rogers was my brother and a really good friend," Robinson said Sunday in a statement. "He and I were born on the exact same day in the same hospital in Detroit. I am really going to miss him. I loved him very much."
Motown Museum board member Allen Rawls said Rogers died about 6 a.m. in Southfield. Rogers had been ill for several years.
Rogers formed the group in 1956 with cousin Claudette Rogers, Pete Moore, Ronnie White and Robinson. Their hits included "Shop Around," ''You've Really Got a Hold on Me," ''The Tracks of My Tears," ''Going to a Go-Go," ''I Second That Emotion" and "The Tears of a Clown."
"Another soldier in my life has fallen. Bobby Rogers was my brother and a really good friend," Robinson said Sunday in a statement. "He and I were born on the exact same day in the same hospital in Detroit. I am really going to miss him. I loved him very much."
Friday, March 1, 2013
Rapper Ja Rule in NYC jail with July release date
Federal authorities say platinum-selling rapper Ja Rule is in a New York City jail with a July release date.
The 36-year-old rapper left a state prison in central New York last week after serving most of his two-year sentence for illegal gun possession and went straight into federal custody in a tax evasion case.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons says he has since moved from an upstate jail to Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, which houses prisoners awaiting court dates or having short terms left on their sentences.
The bureau said Thursday his expected release date is July 28.
Ja Rule admits he failed to pay taxes on more than $3 million earned between 2004 and 2006 while he lived in New Jersey.
A call to his attorney hasn't been returned.
The 36-year-old rapper left a state prison in central New York last week after serving most of his two-year sentence for illegal gun possession and went straight into federal custody in a tax evasion case.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons says he has since moved from an upstate jail to Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, which houses prisoners awaiting court dates or having short terms left on their sentences.
The bureau said Thursday his expected release date is July 28.
Ja Rule admits he failed to pay taxes on more than $3 million earned between 2004 and 2006 while he lived in New Jersey.
A call to his attorney hasn't been returned.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Capsule reviews of new movie releases
Jack the Giant Slayer" — A big-budget, 3-D retelling of the Jack and the Beanstalk legend may seem like the unlikeliest pairing yet of director Bryan Singer and writer Christopher McQuarrie, but this ends up being smart, thrilling and a whole lot of fun.
Singer and McQuarrie's collaborations include, most famously, the twisty crime mystery "The Usual Suspects" and the Hitler assassination drama "Valkyrie," featuring an eye patch-wearing Tom Cruise. They've sort of been all over the place together over the past couple decades — why not reinterpret a classic fairy tale? "Jack the Giant Slayer" is cheeky without being cutesy.
While the look is medieval, the vibe seems more current, but it's not so anachronistic as to be subversive along the lines of a "Shrek," for example. It actually ends up being pleasingly old-fashioned. Shot in 3-D — rather than one of those muddled 2-D re-dos — the film looks crisp and clean, much more so than the trailers and ads might suggest.
Singer and McQuarrie's collaborations include, most famously, the twisty crime mystery "The Usual Suspects" and the Hitler assassination drama "Valkyrie," featuring an eye patch-wearing Tom Cruise. They've sort of been all over the place together over the past couple decades — why not reinterpret a classic fairy tale? "Jack the Giant Slayer" is cheeky without being cutesy.
While the look is medieval, the vibe seems more current, but it's not so anachronistic as to be subversive along the lines of a "Shrek," for example. It actually ends up being pleasingly old-fashioned. Shot in 3-D — rather than one of those muddled 2-D re-dos — the film looks crisp and clean, much more so than the trailers and ads might suggest.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
AEG just made this more risky for Michael
AEG attorney Marvin Putnam said he was pleased with the ruling and reiterated his belief that the case should have never been filed.
The case centers on whether AEG did an appropriate investigation of Conrad Murray, a former cardiologist who is serving his sentence after being convicted of the involuntary manslaughter of the pop singer. The case also involves whether AEG controlled him while Jackson prepared for a series of comeback concerts.
Katherine Jackson's attorney, Kevin Boyle, declined comment after the hearing, saying he wanted to see the final order.
He told Palazuelos that AEG created a division of loyalties for Murray between his care of Jackson and maintaining an arrangement that would have paid him $150,000 a month to care for the singer.
Jackson died before Murray's contract was signed, and AEG argues he was not an employee of the company.
"AEG just made this more risky for Michael," Boyle argued Monday.
The case centers on whether AEG did an appropriate investigation of Conrad Murray, a former cardiologist who is serving his sentence after being convicted of the involuntary manslaughter of the pop singer. The case also involves whether AEG controlled him while Jackson prepared for a series of comeback concerts.
Katherine Jackson's attorney, Kevin Boyle, declined comment after the hearing, saying he wanted to see the final order.
He told Palazuelos that AEG created a division of loyalties for Murray between his care of Jackson and maintaining an arrangement that would have paid him $150,000 a month to care for the singer.
Jackson died before Murray's contract was signed, and AEG argues he was not an employee of the company.
"AEG just made this more risky for Michael," Boyle argued Monday.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Songwriter Diane Lampert Dead at 88
Diane Charlotte Lampert, a songwriter who contributed lyrics to a long catalog of pop and rockabilly hits along with the title songs for more than 20 movies, died on Friday in New York City at the age of 88, the Associated Press reports.
Lampert was born in the Bronx, New York in 1924. She made a career in the 1950s and 1960s co-writing songs that were performed by artists including Brenda Lee, Harry Nilsson, George Jones, the Seekers and the Letterman. Her movie credits include the title songs for the films The Snow Queen, I'll Take Sweden, Billie, and Silent Running, as well as songs for The Wild and the Innocent, and Trees Lounge.
Along with Eddie Fontaine, Cirino Colacrai and John Gluck, Lampert wrote the rockabilly hit, "Nothin' Shakin' (But the Leaves on the Trees)," which the Beatles recorded for a BBC radio show in 1963. The track was released on the 1994 album Live at the BBC.
Lampert was born in the Bronx, New York in 1924. She made a career in the 1950s and 1960s co-writing songs that were performed by artists including Brenda Lee, Harry Nilsson, George Jones, the Seekers and the Letterman. Her movie credits include the title songs for the films The Snow Queen, I'll Take Sweden, Billie, and Silent Running, as well as songs for The Wild and the Innocent, and Trees Lounge.
Along with Eddie Fontaine, Cirino Colacrai and John Gluck, Lampert wrote the rockabilly hit, "Nothin' Shakin' (But the Leaves on the Trees)," which the Beatles recorded for a BBC radio show in 1963. The track was released on the 1994 album Live at the BBC.
Friday, February 22, 2013
In the teaser video released last month
It's always fun when you cross over lines, you know, in the show business world. It's always fun to go into somebody else's thing and vice versa. So that in itself is just reason enough to do it. My wife is really into Wale so she's playing the stuff and I'm getting into it so it was all great.
Yeah. I think he asked a few times until I finally decided that it would be a fun thing to do.
Well, his guys were there. And we just went in the studio and just started talking. And they just wanted me to say things, whatever I thought about various things. They would ask me things and I would just tell them what I thought. And then they have to do their thing with it, which takes a while as I understand. But just for me to hang out with guys like that was the coolest, you know? Because I don't hang out with 19-year-old music guys. So it was great.
In the teaser video released last month, you said the lines were blurry between hip-hop and standup comedy.
Yeah. I think he asked a few times until I finally decided that it would be a fun thing to do.
Well, his guys were there. And we just went in the studio and just started talking. And they just wanted me to say things, whatever I thought about various things. They would ask me things and I would just tell them what I thought. And then they have to do their thing with it, which takes a while as I understand. But just for me to hang out with guys like that was the coolest, you know? Because I don't hang out with 19-year-old music guys. So it was great.
In the teaser video released last month, you said the lines were blurry between hip-hop and standup comedy.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Frank Ocean in Elaborate Ceremony
Emeli Sandé and Ben Howard were the big winners at the 2013 BRIT Awards, on a night when singer-songwriters trumped rock and pop stars and performers often outshone the award winners.
Sandé picked up the big award, the MasterCard British Album of the Year, at the ceremony, held Wednesday at the O2 Arena in London. Roxy Music's Bryan Ferry presented her with the award for Our Version of Events, the biggest-selling album in the UK in 2012. She also picked up British Female Solo Artist and closed the show with a performance of "Clown," solo at her piano, and "Next to Me," featuring a full band and a gospel-style choir.
I think I'm a very unlikely pop star," she said backstage after her British Album win. "This is an album I made because I didn't have the confidence to say these things in person. So many people connected with this album and it makes me feel incredible."
Sandé picked up the big award, the MasterCard British Album of the Year, at the ceremony, held Wednesday at the O2 Arena in London. Roxy Music's Bryan Ferry presented her with the award for Our Version of Events, the biggest-selling album in the UK in 2012. She also picked up British Female Solo Artist and closed the show with a performance of "Clown," solo at her piano, and "Next to Me," featuring a full band and a gospel-style choir.
I think I'm a very unlikely pop star," she said backstage after her British Album win. "This is an album I made because I didn't have the confidence to say these things in person. So many people connected with this album and it makes me feel incredible."
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
The court refused to hear Curb's appeal
The Tennessee Supreme Court has put an end to Curb Records' fight to keep Tim McGraw off another label — two weeks after he released his new album with Big Machine Records.
The court refused to hear Curb's appeal of a lower court's ruling that McGraw was free to record with whomever he wished while his legal fight with his longtime label continued through the court system. An appeals court affirmed that ruling last year and Curb sought the Supreme Court's help. The court signed an order last week denying the appeal.
McGraw released "Two Lanes of Freedom" on his new label on Feb. 5. It debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 all-genre albums chart, selling more than 106,000 copies. It's the first album of his career not to be released on Curb.
The court refused to hear Curb's appeal of a lower court's ruling that McGraw was free to record with whomever he wished while his legal fight with his longtime label continued through the court system. An appeals court affirmed that ruling last year and Curb sought the Supreme Court's help. The court signed an order last week denying the appeal.
McGraw released "Two Lanes of Freedom" on his new label on Feb. 5. It debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 all-genre albums chart, selling more than 106,000 copies. It's the first album of his career not to be released on Curb.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
McCartney singing Hey Jude
Xu recalls his old friend, the established rock band Tang Dynasty's bassist Zhang Ju, who died in a motorcycle accident in 1995.
"In his diary, he wrote, 'Life is like a tree'. He loved life, loved people around him," he says.
"When you listened to 70-year-old Paul McCartney singing Hey Jude at the Opening Ceremony of London Olympic Games, you felt love, didn't you?"
Recently, Xu also signed a contract with Beijing Gehua Live Nation Co, a leading live-performance organizer, which has brought international artists like Bob Dylan and Irish rock band The Cranberries to China.
Xu will kick off his national tour in May, which he calls the biggest in his career.
"As I am getting older and older, the world becomes bigger and bigger to me. I am still learning," he says. "I want to sing for people who share their lives, their youth with me, through my songs."
"In his diary, he wrote, 'Life is like a tree'. He loved life, loved people around him," he says.
"When you listened to 70-year-old Paul McCartney singing Hey Jude at the Opening Ceremony of London Olympic Games, you felt love, didn't you?"
Recently, Xu also signed a contract with Beijing Gehua Live Nation Co, a leading live-performance organizer, which has brought international artists like Bob Dylan and Irish rock band The Cranberries to China.
Xu will kick off his national tour in May, which he calls the biggest in his career.
"As I am getting older and older, the world becomes bigger and bigger to me. I am still learning," he says. "I want to sing for people who share their lives, their youth with me, through my songs."
Monday, February 18, 2013
Grammy award for best new artist
Presenter Katy Perry holds out the Grammy award for best new artist to Nate Ruess, singer from Fun, at the 55th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, February 10, 2013.
Like Mumford & Sons, Gotye busted up the predictions, taking record of the year for 2012's top-selling single, the haunting "Somebody That I Used To Know," featuring New Zealand's Kimbra, and finished with three awards.
Prince, in hood and sunglasses and carrying a sparkly silver cane, presented him with the record of the year trophy and the Australian paid tribute to The Purple One's influence.
"A little bit lost for words, to receive an award from the man standing behind us with the cane," the Belgian-Australian Gotye said. "Many years listening to this man's music growing up and a big reason I was inspired to make music. Thank you."
Like Mumford & Sons, Gotye busted up the predictions, taking record of the year for 2012's top-selling single, the haunting "Somebody That I Used To Know," featuring New Zealand's Kimbra, and finished with three awards.
Prince, in hood and sunglasses and carrying a sparkly silver cane, presented him with the record of the year trophy and the Australian paid tribute to The Purple One's influence.
"A little bit lost for words, to receive an award from the man standing behind us with the cane," the Belgian-Australian Gotye said. "Many years listening to this man's music growing up and a big reason I was inspired to make music. Thank you."
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
NFL Finds No Indication That Beyonce Caused Super Bowl Power Outage
Despite the popular rumor that Beyoncé's halftime show caused the 35-minute power outage during the second half of the Super Bowl, the NFL finds no connection between the two, Reuters reports. The NFL has been working with the city of New Orleans to find the reason why the lights went out at the Superdome, but NFL commissioner Roger Goodell eliminated the pop star's theatrics as the culprit.
"There's no indication at all that this was caused by the halftime show," Goodell stated. "I know that's out there, that Beyonce's halftime show had something to do with it. That is not the case from anything we have at this point."
The utility company providing power to the Superdome said that their feeders were serving the stadium throughout the outage. Doug Thorton, the senior vice president of the Superdome's management company, pointed to "an abnormality" with the Superdome's power system but added that it was "too early" to speculate on specifics.
"There's no indication at all that this was caused by the halftime show," Goodell stated. "I know that's out there, that Beyonce's halftime show had something to do with it. That is not the case from anything we have at this point."
The utility company providing power to the Superdome said that their feeders were serving the stadium throughout the outage. Doug Thorton, the senior vice president of the Superdome's management company, pointed to "an abnormality" with the Superdome's power system but added that it was "too early" to speculate on specifics.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Beyonce Rocks Super Bowl Halftime Show With Destiny Is Child
She sang live — and sounded good. Days after admitting to singing to a pre-recorded track at President Barack Obama's inauguration, she proved herself to any doubters and added a few off-script remarks as if to show her microphone was on.
Her background singers helped out as Beyonce danced around the stage throughout most of the 13-minute performance. She was especially top-notch during "End of Time" and "Baby Boy."
She had a swarm of background dancers and band members spread throughout the stage, along with videotaped images of herself dancing. And the crowd got bigger when she was joined by her Destiny's Child band mates.
Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams popped up from below the stage to sing "Bootylicious." They were in similar outfits, singing and dancing closely as they harmonized. But Rowland and Williams were barely heard when the group sang "Independent Woman," as their voices faded into the background.
Her background singers helped out as Beyonce danced around the stage throughout most of the 13-minute performance. She was especially top-notch during "End of Time" and "Baby Boy."
She had a swarm of background dancers and band members spread throughout the stage, along with videotaped images of herself dancing. And the crowd got bigger when she was joined by her Destiny's Child band mates.
Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams popped up from below the stage to sing "Bootylicious." They were in similar outfits, singing and dancing closely as they harmonized. But Rowland and Williams were barely heard when the group sang "Independent Woman," as their voices faded into the background.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Xu wei found his goal
In his diary, he wrote, 'Life is like a tree'. He loved life, loved people around him," he says.
When you listened to 70-year-old Paul McCartney singing Hey Jude at the Opening Ceremony of London Olympic Games, you felt love, didn't you?"
Recently, Xu also signed a contract with Beijing Gehua Live Nation Co, a leading live-performance organizer, which has brought international artists like Bob Dylan and Irish rock band The Cranberries to China.
Xu will kick off his national tour in May, which he calls the biggest in his career.
"As I am getting older and older, the world becomes bigger and bigger to me. I am still learning," he says. "I want to sing for people who share their lives, their youth with me, through my songs."
When you listened to 70-year-old Paul McCartney singing Hey Jude at the Opening Ceremony of London Olympic Games, you felt love, didn't you?"
Recently, Xu also signed a contract with Beijing Gehua Live Nation Co, a leading live-performance organizer, which has brought international artists like Bob Dylan and Irish rock band The Cranberries to China.
Xu will kick off his national tour in May, which he calls the biggest in his career.
"As I am getting older and older, the world becomes bigger and bigger to me. I am still learning," he says. "I want to sing for people who share their lives, their youth with me, through my songs."
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Patty was the Andrews in the middle
Andrews died of natural causes at her home in the Los Angeles suburb of Northridge, said family spokesman Alan Eichler in a statement.
Patty was the Andrews in the middle, the lead singer and chief clown, whose raucous jitterbugging delighted American servicemen abroad and audiences at home.
She could also deliver sentimental ballads like "I'll Be with You in Apple Blossom Time" with a sincerity that caused hardened GIs far from home to weep.
"When I was a kid, I only had two records and one of them was the Andrews Sisters. They were remarkable. Their sound, so pure," said Bette Midler, who had a hit cover of "Bugle Boy" in 1973. "Everything they did for our nation was more than we could have asked for. This is the last of the trio, and I hope the trumpets ushering (Patty) into heaven with her sisters are playing "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy."
Patty was the Andrews in the middle, the lead singer and chief clown, whose raucous jitterbugging delighted American servicemen abroad and audiences at home.
She could also deliver sentimental ballads like "I'll Be with You in Apple Blossom Time" with a sincerity that caused hardened GIs far from home to weep.
"When I was a kid, I only had two records and one of them was the Andrews Sisters. They were remarkable. Their sound, so pure," said Bette Midler, who had a hit cover of "Bugle Boy" in 1973. "Everything they did for our nation was more than we could have asked for. This is the last of the trio, and I hope the trumpets ushering (Patty) into heaven with her sisters are playing "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy."
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
It was the second consecutive week
Industry experts had expected about 350,000 downloads for Timberlake's widely publicized single, which precedes a new album later in 2013 - his first since 2006.
But Timberlake, 31, who has been focused on building a Hollywood acting career, was dressed down on the digital chart by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' "Thrift Shop" featuring rapper Wanz, which sold some 341,000 downloads in the week ending on January 20.
It was the second consecutive week atop the digital songs chart for the novelty rap song about eschewing designer clothes for a second-hand look.
Timberlake will perform his first concert in five years during a private Super Bowl-related event in New Orleans on February 2, DirectTV announced on Wednesday. The invitation-only concert will not be shown on TV, the satellite providers said.
On the Billboard 200 album chart, rapper A$AP Rocky's debut album "Long.Live.A$AP" entered at the top spot, selling about 139,000 units last week.
But Timberlake, 31, who has been focused on building a Hollywood acting career, was dressed down on the digital chart by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' "Thrift Shop" featuring rapper Wanz, which sold some 341,000 downloads in the week ending on January 20.
It was the second consecutive week atop the digital songs chart for the novelty rap song about eschewing designer clothes for a second-hand look.
Timberlake will perform his first concert in five years during a private Super Bowl-related event in New Orleans on February 2, DirectTV announced on Wednesday. The invitation-only concert will not be shown on TV, the satellite providers said.
On the Billboard 200 album chart, rapper A$AP Rocky's debut album "Long.Live.A$AP" entered at the top spot, selling about 139,000 units last week.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Solid Soul
George Benson is feeling the love. After alternating between vocals and electric guitar, grooving to hits such as This Masquerade, Turn Your Love Around and Take Five, the 69-year-old 10-time Grammy-winning jazz and crossover musician is enticed back for an encore.
The born storyteller remembers how his next song was originally recorded for the 1977 Muhammad Ali biographical film The Greatest because their voices sounded the same: "It's all about the fuzz," he jokes, referring to the trademark whisky-edged burr that had women swoon the world over whenever the grandfather of 20 crooned a love song.
"I was in front of the Empire State Building and a girl, maybe 16 or 18, came up to me and said that she was my biggest fan," he relates on a recent visit to Macao. "She then said that she was going to record my song and that it would be a big hit. I said, sure. She was right. This is a tribute to the greatest vocalist of our time: Whitney Houston."
He began the familiar ballad, putting his own unique stamp on The Greatest Love of All while conjuring up ghosts of Houston's more popular cover version. The Venetian Theatre became choked with emotion as every member of the more than 1,000-strong audience keenly relived the tragic loss of Houston earlier this year. As he sang the last ballad, his voice broke and he stated: "This is hard for me to sing" and walked off the stage without another word.
The born storyteller remembers how his next song was originally recorded for the 1977 Muhammad Ali biographical film The Greatest because their voices sounded the same: "It's all about the fuzz," he jokes, referring to the trademark whisky-edged burr that had women swoon the world over whenever the grandfather of 20 crooned a love song.
"I was in front of the Empire State Building and a girl, maybe 16 or 18, came up to me and said that she was my biggest fan," he relates on a recent visit to Macao. "She then said that she was going to record my song and that it would be a big hit. I said, sure. She was right. This is a tribute to the greatest vocalist of our time: Whitney Houston."
He began the familiar ballad, putting his own unique stamp on The Greatest Love of All while conjuring up ghosts of Houston's more popular cover version. The Venetian Theatre became choked with emotion as every member of the more than 1,000-strong audience keenly relived the tragic loss of Houston earlier this year. As he sang the last ballad, his voice broke and he stated: "This is hard for me to sing" and walked off the stage without another word.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Hundreds Die in Brazilian Nightclub Fire
More than 230 people were killed in a fire that raged through a nightclub in Brazil early Sunday morning, the Associated Press reports. The majority of the victims were local students, who had packed the Kiss club in the university city of Santa Maria.
According to witnesses, the fire began shortly after 2 a.m., during a set by the local band Gurizada Fandangueira, when a flare from the band's pyrotechnic display ignited the soundproofing on the ceiling. The band's guitarist, Rodrigo Martins, told a Brazilian radio station that the group was around five songs into its set when he noticed that the roof was burning. "It might have happened because of the Sputnik, the machine we use to create a luminous effect with sparks," Martins said. "It's harmless, we never had any trouble with it." Martins escaped safely with four of his bandmates, but their accordion player, Danilo Jacques, died in the blaze.
An official with the city's fire department said that the club's security guards had locked the exits, hampering escape and adding to the panic. As of Sunday afternoon, 232 people had been declared dead, making it the deadliest nightclub fire in more than a decade.
For many, the incident brings to mind the deadly Rhode Island blaze that broke out in 2003, when pyrotechnics during a set by the band Great White ignited soundproofing on the walls and ceiling. As a result of the incident, which took 100 lives, Rhode Island banned pyrotechnic displays in all but the state's largest venues.
According to witnesses, the fire began shortly after 2 a.m., during a set by the local band Gurizada Fandangueira, when a flare from the band's pyrotechnic display ignited the soundproofing on the ceiling. The band's guitarist, Rodrigo Martins, told a Brazilian radio station that the group was around five songs into its set when he noticed that the roof was burning. "It might have happened because of the Sputnik, the machine we use to create a luminous effect with sparks," Martins said. "It's harmless, we never had any trouble with it." Martins escaped safely with four of his bandmates, but their accordion player, Danilo Jacques, died in the blaze.
An official with the city's fire department said that the club's security guards had locked the exits, hampering escape and adding to the panic. As of Sunday afternoon, 232 people had been declared dead, making it the deadliest nightclub fire in more than a decade.
For many, the incident brings to mind the deadly Rhode Island blaze that broke out in 2003, when pyrotechnics during a set by the band Great White ignited soundproofing on the walls and ceiling. As a result of the incident, which took 100 lives, Rhode Island banned pyrotechnic displays in all but the state's largest venues.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Coachella Is Red Hot Chili Peppers Booking Came Down to the Wire
The Red Hot Chili Peppers signed on to headline Coachella about an hour before the annual Indio, California, festival announced its lineup last night, one of the band's managers tells Rolling Stone.
"We've been in talks for months," says Cliff Burnstein, whose firm, Q Prime, also manages Metallica, the Black Keys and other top rock acts. "It goes down to the wire. It's a negotiation."
The Peppers, who have played Coachella twice before, abruptly emerged as the Sunday-night headliner for both the April 12th and 14th weekends after weeks of rumors that the Rolling Stones would play the festival.
But Mick Jagger earlier this week told NME: "We're not gonna do Coachella, 'cos it's too early. There was a rumor we were gonna do that one, but it's very early, Coachella. It's April or something, isn't it? And we're not gonna be ready to go by April. But we're not gonna stop."
"We've been in talks for months," says Cliff Burnstein, whose firm, Q Prime, also manages Metallica, the Black Keys and other top rock acts. "It goes down to the wire. It's a negotiation."
The Peppers, who have played Coachella twice before, abruptly emerged as the Sunday-night headliner for both the April 12th and 14th weekends after weeks of rumors that the Rolling Stones would play the festival.
But Mick Jagger earlier this week told NME: "We're not gonna do Coachella, 'cos it's too early. There was a rumor we were gonna do that one, but it's very early, Coachella. It's April or something, isn't it? And we're not gonna be ready to go by April. But we're not gonna stop."
Spotify Is Top 10 most viral tracks
Back in 2008, photographer and lifetime Motörhead fan Pep Bonet met up with his favorite rock & roll band to capture their European tour. Since then, Bonet's traveled around the world with Lemmy Kilmister, Phil Campbell and Mikkey Dee, capturing everything from soundchecks and backstage antics to studio time and intimate personal moments. Bonet's photos are compiled in a new book, Röadkill, which you can order on his website.
Now you can check out this exclusive multimedia collection of Bonet's pictures, narrated by the photographer himself. "I admired these people before I met them," says Bonet in the clip, "and I can say I admire them more now because I've seen the reality of the best rock & roll band in the world."
Now you can check out this exclusive multimedia collection of Bonet's pictures, narrated by the photographer himself. "I admired these people before I met them," says Bonet in the clip, "and I can say I admire them more now because I've seen the reality of the best rock & roll band in the world."
Thursday, January 24, 2013
From the day that Gong Linna
Gong Linna continues to reshape folk music on the contemporary stage, Chen Nan reports.
From the day that Gong Linna became an Internet sensation for her lyricless song Tan Te, or "Disturbed", she was known as an unconventional Chinese folk singer who breaks all the rules.
With her powerful voice, wide vocal range and dramatic facial expressions, she attracts attention and gets rave reviews when she releases each new song.
Fa Hai, You Don't Understand Love, Gong's latest song - which, like Tan Te, was composed by her German husband, Robert Zollitsch - has conjured up yet another wave of attention and controversy.
First performed at the New Year's eve gala of Hunan Satellite TV on Dec 31, the new song soared to popularity overnight thanks to its contagious melody and quirky lyrics.
From the day that Gong Linna became an Internet sensation for her lyricless song Tan Te, or "Disturbed", she was known as an unconventional Chinese folk singer who breaks all the rules.
With her powerful voice, wide vocal range and dramatic facial expressions, she attracts attention and gets rave reviews when she releases each new song.
Fa Hai, You Don't Understand Love, Gong's latest song - which, like Tan Te, was composed by her German husband, Robert Zollitsch - has conjured up yet another wave of attention and controversy.
First performed at the New Year's eve gala of Hunan Satellite TV on Dec 31, the new song soared to popularity overnight thanks to its contagious melody and quirky lyrics.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Celebrities turn out for inauguration
The divas were happy to play supporting roles over the inauguration weekend as President Barack Obama kicked off his second term. And there was the promise of one more surprise guest at Tuesday's private staff ball— Lady Gaga, who the Presidential Inaugural Committee says will perform at the event intended to thank campaign and White House staffers.
Although it didn't quite have the collective star power of Obama's first inauguration, which featured a televised concert on the mall, Obama turned to younger acts Beyonce and Kelly Clarkson on the podium where last time Aretha Franklin stood with Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman.
Here are photos of the some of the stars who turned out to support the president at events over the weekend.
Although it didn't quite have the collective star power of Obama's first inauguration, which featured a televised concert on the mall, Obama turned to younger acts Beyonce and Kelly Clarkson on the podium where last time Aretha Franklin stood with Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman.
Here are photos of the some of the stars who turned out to support the president at events over the weekend.
The all American girl at charity concert
The pop singer sported a bright red suit, blue shoes and a white shirt on the red carpet ahead of her performance at the 9:30 Club. The back on her suit read "U$A."
"I'm very proud to be an American tonight. I'm excited we have another four years," she said in an interview.
The 25-year-old said she was moved by President Barack Obama's speech at the Capitol launching his second term in office.
"I really appreciate him addressing equal rights," said Ke$ha, who is a supporter of gay rights. "It's an issue very close to my heart."
The patriotic vibe continued when she hit the stage just after midnight, where her four male background dancers wore cropped shirts bearing the American flag.
She no longer had on a suit, now wearing a shimmery black and silver leotard as she danced to her pop hits like "TiK ToK," ''We R Who We R" and "Die Young."
"Our president rules. In honor of President Obama, let's party," she said before performing another hit, the jam "Blow."
"I'm very proud to be an American tonight. I'm excited we have another four years," she said in an interview.
The 25-year-old said she was moved by President Barack Obama's speech at the Capitol launching his second term in office.
"I really appreciate him addressing equal rights," said Ke$ha, who is a supporter of gay rights. "It's an issue very close to my heart."
The patriotic vibe continued when she hit the stage just after midnight, where her four male background dancers wore cropped shirts bearing the American flag.
She no longer had on a suit, now wearing a shimmery black and silver leotard as she danced to her pop hits like "TiK ToK," ''We R Who We R" and "Die Young."
"Our president rules. In honor of President Obama, let's party," she said before performing another hit, the jam "Blow."
Monday, January 21, 2013
Lee Is official website
Then he starred in movies like Fly, Daddy, Fly, and action drama Time Between Dog and Wolf, a first lead role that showed he is more than just a pretty face.
In 2006, he released his debut album, My Jun, My Style, and three years later he released J Style.
After two years in the army, Lee, 30, announced his return in February 2012, which was greeted by more than 2,000 fans in Seoul. A new album, Deucer, was also released.
Lee's official website suggested that his first concert in Seoul, in December, sold out within one minute. He then toured Japan.
Now Lee is coming to Beijing with a concert titled JG Time. He has chosen a relatively small venue with seating for just 2,000, so his fans can get up close and personal.
In 2006, he released his debut album, My Jun, My Style, and three years later he released J Style.
After two years in the army, Lee, 30, announced his return in February 2012, which was greeted by more than 2,000 fans in Seoul. A new album, Deucer, was also released.
Lee's official website suggested that his first concert in Seoul, in December, sold out within one minute. He then toured Japan.
Now Lee is coming to Beijing with a concert titled JG Time. He has chosen a relatively small venue with seating for just 2,000, so his fans can get up close and personal.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
The musical production involves a huge investment
"The kung fu fighting we have will be spectacular, and a highlight of the show, but it still has to deliver as a musical, with a great story and songs, even without the martial arts element," he says.
The musical production involves a huge investment of no less than $12 million. According to Robert Vicencio, the producer, it is "probably going to be the most expensive musical in China".
It will be staged first in English, instead of Chinese, at the premiere in Singapore in 2014.
On Dec 12, the production announced in Hong Kong that Ip Ching, the son of Ip Man, will be the chief consultant.
Producer of the movie edition, Raymond Wong, and his son Edmond Wong, the playwright for the movie, have also been signed on as advisors for the new musical.
The music and stage design are underway. Casting will start in the coming months, maybe through a reality TV show, says Vicencio.
Ever since Vicencio relocated to Shanghai 10 years ago, he has wanted to develop the musical and entertainment industry in China.
The musical production involves a huge investment of no less than $12 million. According to Robert Vicencio, the producer, it is "probably going to be the most expensive musical in China".
It will be staged first in English, instead of Chinese, at the premiere in Singapore in 2014.
On Dec 12, the production announced in Hong Kong that Ip Ching, the son of Ip Man, will be the chief consultant.
Producer of the movie edition, Raymond Wong, and his son Edmond Wong, the playwright for the movie, have also been signed on as advisors for the new musical.
The music and stage design are underway. Casting will start in the coming months, maybe through a reality TV show, says Vicencio.
Ever since Vicencio relocated to Shanghai 10 years ago, he has wanted to develop the musical and entertainment industry in China.
Friday, January 18, 2013
The systematic management of concerts
Song surprised many when he opened a Peking duck restaurant in February.
But he says he isn't leaving the music industry.
"I have a professional team to run the restaurant. With the new music company's launch, I feel my second spring is coming," Song says, laughing.
His strategy for building up the label is corporatizing concerts.
Song's first move will be staging 10 shows by rock singer-songwriter Wang Feng. Wang staged eight performances nationwide in 2011. Evergrande will hold 10 concerts for Wang within five months in 2012 - at least two concerts a month, Song says.
"The systematic management of concerts not only promotes the musician and his music but also builds up the organizer's image in the concert sector," Song says.
The gurus say they'll not only host performances by established stars but will also discover new talent.
The company's first new singer-songwriter is 16-year-old Zhou Ziyan, who rose to fame by playing guitar in online videos. She will release four albums under the label.
But he says he isn't leaving the music industry.
"I have a professional team to run the restaurant. With the new music company's launch, I feel my second spring is coming," Song says, laughing.
His strategy for building up the label is corporatizing concerts.
Song's first move will be staging 10 shows by rock singer-songwriter Wang Feng. Wang staged eight performances nationwide in 2011. Evergrande will hold 10 concerts for Wang within five months in 2012 - at least two concerts a month, Song says.
"The systematic management of concerts not only promotes the musician and his music but also builds up the organizer's image in the concert sector," Song says.
The gurus say they'll not only host performances by established stars but will also discover new talent.
The company's first new singer-songwriter is 16-year-old Zhou Ziyan, who rose to fame by playing guitar in online videos. She will release four albums under the label.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Three Chinese metal bands Yaksa
Among them are not only traditional groups, such as Jiangsu Province Kunqu Opera Troupe and Xinjiang Makit Dolan Muqam Troupe, but also the rock band Second-Hand Roses and "free folk" singer Xiao He.
Three Chinese metal bands -Yaksa, Suffocated and The Falling - will perform at the Wacken Open Air in Germany, one of the biggest metal music festivals in the world, in August.
It seems that Chinese rock music is appearing more often on the international scene. But not many people know that one of the driving forces behind the phenomenon is the Ministry of Culture, which is sponsoring the international travel of the aforementioned Chinese musicians.
This is something new for the Chinese government, which has been sending out official art troupes to tour other countries for a long time but has only recently begun to work with independent musicians. It was hard to imagine in the past that the ministry would support a band with the name "Suffocated" to represent China at an international festival.
Three Chinese metal bands -Yaksa, Suffocated and The Falling - will perform at the Wacken Open Air in Germany, one of the biggest metal music festivals in the world, in August.
It seems that Chinese rock music is appearing more often on the international scene. But not many people know that one of the driving forces behind the phenomenon is the Ministry of Culture, which is sponsoring the international travel of the aforementioned Chinese musicians.
This is something new for the Chinese government, which has been sending out official art troupes to tour other countries for a long time but has only recently begun to work with independent musicians. It was hard to imagine in the past that the ministry would support a band with the name "Suffocated" to represent China at an international festival.
The Spice Girls meteoric
Beckham, who has remained in the limelight since the band went into hiatus in 2000 due to her success as a designer and style icon and marriage to soccer star David Beckham, hoped Viva Forever! would bring girl power to a new audience.
"We talked about girl power for a long long time and we're hoping to introduce a whole new generation. What we do individually as well is empower women and it's fun - we want to have fun and we're excited."
Viva Forever! is not a re-telling of the Spice Girls' meteoric rise to global fame after they formed in 1994 having answered an advertisement to form a girl band.
While it does feature their hits, which include "Wannabe", "Spice Up Your Life" and "Viva Forever", it centers around four characters who audition for a TV talent show.
"It's not about actually us, it's the essence of the Spice Girls," said Halliwell, who, like the other four Spice Girls, is a mother in her late 30s.
"We talked about girl power for a long long time and we're hoping to introduce a whole new generation. What we do individually as well is empower women and it's fun - we want to have fun and we're excited."
Viva Forever! is not a re-telling of the Spice Girls' meteoric rise to global fame after they formed in 1994 having answered an advertisement to form a girl band.
While it does feature their hits, which include "Wannabe", "Spice Up Your Life" and "Viva Forever", it centers around four characters who audition for a TV talent show.
"It's not about actually us, it's the essence of the Spice Girls," said Halliwell, who, like the other four Spice Girls, is a mother in her late 30s.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
French Armenian dual citizen
The event's proceeds will go to three charities: Operation Smile, the Shanghai International Film Festival and the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling Foundation Safety for Mothers and Infants Project.
Aznavour, a French-Armenian dual citizen, admits his main reason for agreeing to do the fundraiser was not exactly altruistic. Singing in Shanghai, he says, is a chance to cross off a name from the short list of countries he has not yet visited.
The China he has found in Shanghai, however, turned out to be at least half a century ahead of the China he envisioned.
"Very modern," the grandfather of three says in an exclusive interview at the presidential suite of a boutique hotel along The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront of concession architecture that faces 21st-century skyscrapers.
"It's not disappointing. It's only that I had the idea - the very romantic idea - to find out about the old China," he says.
"Through movies and documentaries and expositions, like we had in France in 1937, I had another vision of China."
Though this is Aznavour's first time in the country, his music is no stranger to the Chinese.
Aznavour, a French-Armenian dual citizen, admits his main reason for agreeing to do the fundraiser was not exactly altruistic. Singing in Shanghai, he says, is a chance to cross off a name from the short list of countries he has not yet visited.
The China he has found in Shanghai, however, turned out to be at least half a century ahead of the China he envisioned.
"Very modern," the grandfather of three says in an exclusive interview at the presidential suite of a boutique hotel along The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront of concession architecture that faces 21st-century skyscrapers.
"It's not disappointing. It's only that I had the idea - the very romantic idea - to find out about the old China," he says.
"Through movies and documentaries and expositions, like we had in France in 1937, I had another vision of China."
Though this is Aznavour's first time in the country, his music is no stranger to the Chinese.
Monday, January 14, 2013
Yamaha and Casio
He shuns building music from scratch with computer-generated timbres. He instead seeks out traditional instruments and low-end keyboards, records them and then builds melodies and chords from the tones they yield. His studio is littered with peculiar instruments: rare guitars, ukuleles, a pump organ from Egypt, a Roland analog synthesizer from the 1970s, stacks of cheap Yamaha and Casio keyboards and assorted percussion instruments.
"I just want to sound different than everyone else," he said. "I don't care if it sounds bad."
Yet his collaborators say Mr. Blanco's biggest asset lies in his ears and instincts. Much of what Mr. Blanco does during songwriting sessions, they say, is direct the creative flow of other musicians, pulling them in directions they would normally avoid.
"I just want to sound different than everyone else," he said. "I don't care if it sounds bad."
Yet his collaborators say Mr. Blanco's biggest asset lies in his ears and instincts. Much of what Mr. Blanco does during songwriting sessions, they say, is direct the creative flow of other musicians, pulling them in directions they would normally avoid.
Friday, January 11, 2013
There are very few places
According to a recent survey by Sina.com, about 83 percent of Chinese netizens do not want to pay for downloading music. This is a whole generation who has grown up listening to music for free, since the Internet made it possible more than 10 years ago.
There are very few places where you can still buy CDs, either original or pirated. The norm now is just a click on your computer or mobile phone and the music will play.
It seems that not many people are aware that music doesn't come from nowhere, but is made by professionals who devote their lives to music making. They are entitled to proceeds from their work, which supports them to continue to make music.
There are very few places where you can still buy CDs, either original or pirated. The norm now is just a click on your computer or mobile phone and the music will play.
It seems that not many people are aware that music doesn't come from nowhere, but is made by professionals who devote their lives to music making. They are entitled to proceeds from their work, which supports them to continue to make music.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
A singer Is success
One of the hottest singers in China at the moment, Li Daimo, released a new CD consisting entirely of covers of classic pop numbers. Like most other new Chinese pop singers, Li became famous because of his appearance in a TV talent show.
In the past, a singer's success was inseparable from his or her signature songs, but today, with few left in the business of making music, there is virtually no opportunity for a singer to shine with just a song.
There is a theory that the music industry's loss in recordings has been compensated by an increase in live performances. But music writing, which is the foundation of the music business, is not encouraged under the current system. And without it, there won't be momentum for the development of the art.
Online music has been a very important feature of major websites in providing multimedia entertainment for Internet users, and those websites have benefited greatly from the use of music.
In the past, a singer's success was inseparable from his or her signature songs, but today, with few left in the business of making music, there is virtually no opportunity for a singer to shine with just a song.
There is a theory that the music industry's loss in recordings has been compensated by an increase in live performances. But music writing, which is the foundation of the music business, is not encouraged under the current system. And without it, there won't be momentum for the development of the art.
Online music has been a very important feature of major websites in providing multimedia entertainment for Internet users, and those websites have benefited greatly from the use of music.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Celebrities perform at the Diamond Jubilee concert
The one-night concert was titled "East Meets West - Three Stars in Collaboration." The trio presented solo and collaborative performances accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus.
Song, one of China's most popular vocalists, performed a selection of her popular Chinese folk songs, including "Little Back Basket" and "Flying Songs".
She was later joined by Bocelli and Lang Lang for "Love Song of Kangding".
Footage of Chinese people expressing their hopes for a successful 2012 London Olympic Games was also shown at the concert.
The event marked the second collaboration between the three musicians following the 2010 Shanghai World Expo's opening ceremony.
Song, one of China's most popular vocalists, performed a selection of her popular Chinese folk songs, including "Little Back Basket" and "Flying Songs".
She was later joined by Bocelli and Lang Lang for "Love Song of Kangding".
Footage of Chinese people expressing their hopes for a successful 2012 London Olympic Games was also shown at the concert.
The event marked the second collaboration between the three musicians following the 2010 Shanghai World Expo's opening ceremony.
Post apocalyptic film
The Hunger Games" won four MTV Movie Awards on Sunday but a "Twilight" film picked up the best movie honor for the fourth straight year in what proved to be a tame evening at the typically outrageous awards show.
Post-apocalyptic film "The Hunger Games" nabbed MTV's golden popcorn trophies for best male performance by Josh Hutcherson, best female performance by Jennifer Lawrence, best transformation by Elizabeth Banks and best fight.
The movie of the year award, voted for by fans online throughout the show, went to vampire romance "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1," beating out "The Hunger Games" and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2."
Female-led comedy "Bridesmaids" picked up two awards for best comedic performance by Melissa McCarthy and best gut-wrenching performance for its stomach-turning food poisoning scene, while the final installment of the "Harry Potter" franchise won for best cast and best hero.
Host Russell Brand, known for raunchy humor, launched into jokes about his short-lived marriage to singer Katy Perry, thanking Kim Kardashian for "taking the pressure off me" due to her brief marriage to basketball player Kris Humphries and joking about keeping his "eyes peeled" for a new wife.
His barbs also were directed at pop star Justin Bieber, Charlie Sheen, John Travolta, Kanye West and "Shame" actor Michael Fassbender for "profiting from sex addiction."
Post-apocalyptic film "The Hunger Games" nabbed MTV's golden popcorn trophies for best male performance by Josh Hutcherson, best female performance by Jennifer Lawrence, best transformation by Elizabeth Banks and best fight.
The movie of the year award, voted for by fans online throughout the show, went to vampire romance "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1," beating out "The Hunger Games" and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2."
Female-led comedy "Bridesmaids" picked up two awards for best comedic performance by Melissa McCarthy and best gut-wrenching performance for its stomach-turning food poisoning scene, while the final installment of the "Harry Potter" franchise won for best cast and best hero.
Host Russell Brand, known for raunchy humor, launched into jokes about his short-lived marriage to singer Katy Perry, thanking Kim Kardashian for "taking the pressure off me" due to her brief marriage to basketball player Kris Humphries and joking about keeping his "eyes peeled" for a new wife.
His barbs also were directed at pop star Justin Bieber, Charlie Sheen, John Travolta, Kanye West and "Shame" actor Michael Fassbender for "profiting from sex addiction."
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Wang later spent six years in a local military school
Wang, who was born and raised in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, started learning ballet at age 3. One day when he was 9, he passed a local sport center near his neighborhood and saw fitness dance for the first time.
Wang later spent six years in a local military school as an art soldier, where he learned fitness dance. At 20, he won a national fitness dance competition and decided to develop a career in dance.
In early 2009, he attended a training class organized by Zumba in Beijing, where he got an invitation to go to the US and to learn with teachers there.
Created in the late 1990s in Colombia by fitness instructor Alberto Perez, Zumba is a high-energy aerobic workout based on dance steps borrowed from salsa, meringue and other dances.
Wang's father, a retired photographer from Nanjing Film Studio, and his mother, a teacher, gave him lots of support.
"My mother dances with neighbors in a park near our house every morning," Wang said.
Wang later spent six years in a local military school as an art soldier, where he learned fitness dance. At 20, he won a national fitness dance competition and decided to develop a career in dance.
In early 2009, he attended a training class organized by Zumba in Beijing, where he got an invitation to go to the US and to learn with teachers there.
Created in the late 1990s in Colombia by fitness instructor Alberto Perez, Zumba is a high-energy aerobic workout based on dance steps borrowed from salsa, meringue and other dances.
Wang's father, a retired photographer from Nanjing Film Studio, and his mother, a teacher, gave him lots of support.
"My mother dances with neighbors in a park near our house every morning," Wang said.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Uehara is a world acclaimed Japanese jazz pianist
Grammy-winning jazz trio Hiromi Uehara will take the stage of Xinghai Concert Hall in Guangzhou.
Uehara is a world-acclaimed Japanese jazz pianist, known for fusing classical, jazz, country and rock music. She's described as a "jazz fairy" and often appears onstage in colorful outfits and outlandish hairdos.
She cooperated with American jazz master Chick Corea at age 17. The Stanley Clarke Band won Grammy's Best Contemporary Jazz Award in 2011, and Uehara is billed as a featured artists, playing piano on four of the album's songs.
The improvisations of the trio's drummer and the bass player are critically acclaimed.
Uehara is a world-acclaimed Japanese jazz pianist, known for fusing classical, jazz, country and rock music. She's described as a "jazz fairy" and often appears onstage in colorful outfits and outlandish hairdos.
She cooperated with American jazz master Chick Corea at age 17. The Stanley Clarke Band won Grammy's Best Contemporary Jazz Award in 2011, and Uehara is billed as a featured artists, playing piano on four of the album's songs.
The improvisations of the trio's drummer and the bass player are critically acclaimed.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
If we take a look at the songs
In the vast provinces, where CDs were never a main media for music, most songs are disseminated through either Internet cafes or KTVs, and what people listen to there is often quite different from what people like in Beijing and Shanghai.
If we take a look at the songs that are popular in provincial areas, there is a higher percentage of the so-called "ethnic trend". Songs like Taking a Train to Lhasa by Xu Qianya or Moonlight over the Lotus Pond by Phoenix Legend are all based on the traditional Chinese pentatonic scale, while many also feature Chinese instruments, making it easy for these songs to resonate among people who are not yet that cosmopolitan.
In terms of rhythm the "ethnic trend" songs usually have strong beats to dance to. They sometimes remind one of Hollywood East, a series of tape cassettes of remixed Western disco music that used to be popular in China in the 1980s, but "ethnic trend" songs are certainly more localized.
Those provincial hits likely better represent the situation of Chinese pop music, just like provincial areas better represent the country — compared to the few developed coastal metropolises.
If we take a look at the songs that are popular in provincial areas, there is a higher percentage of the so-called "ethnic trend". Songs like Taking a Train to Lhasa by Xu Qianya or Moonlight over the Lotus Pond by Phoenix Legend are all based on the traditional Chinese pentatonic scale, while many also feature Chinese instruments, making it easy for these songs to resonate among people who are not yet that cosmopolitan.
In terms of rhythm the "ethnic trend" songs usually have strong beats to dance to. They sometimes remind one of Hollywood East, a series of tape cassettes of remixed Western disco music that used to be popular in China in the 1980s, but "ethnic trend" songs are certainly more localized.
Those provincial hits likely better represent the situation of Chinese pop music, just like provincial areas better represent the country — compared to the few developed coastal metropolises.
Friday, January 4, 2013
A new folk singing show is high on Guangxi Satellite TV
New programs are offering twists on singing competition reality shows - blind auditions are ensuring judges' decisions are based on vocal skills alone. Guangxi Satellite TV recently launched Sound of Love, a folk program based on the concept of selecting the singer with the best voice, regardless of appearance and style.
Liu Xichen, president of Shixi Media - the country's leading TV content provider, which produced the show - says it's adapted from True Talent, a singing competition program created by Paris-headquartered Zodiak Media.
"A new folk singing show is high on Guangxi Satellite TV's agenda," Liu says.
"The broadcaster hopes to use the project to promote the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region's annual Nanning International Folk Song Art Festival. It also wants to borrow the packaging of an already-successful foreign program," Liu continues.
"That's why we bought Zodiak's entertainment format. It's high-ratings, and its concept of focusing solely on voices is fresh in China."
Initial auditions are under way in six cities, including Liaoning's provincial capital Shenyang and Shaanxi's provincial capital Xi'an. Applicants must be at least age 18.
In this phase, three judges - all professional musicians - will turn their backs to listen to contestants.
If they like a contender's voice, the judges will turn around and face the singer. If even one judge doesn't turn around, the contestant is out.
Liu Xichen, president of Shixi Media - the country's leading TV content provider, which produced the show - says it's adapted from True Talent, a singing competition program created by Paris-headquartered Zodiak Media.
"A new folk singing show is high on Guangxi Satellite TV's agenda," Liu says.
"The broadcaster hopes to use the project to promote the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region's annual Nanning International Folk Song Art Festival. It also wants to borrow the packaging of an already-successful foreign program," Liu continues.
"That's why we bought Zodiak's entertainment format. It's high-ratings, and its concept of focusing solely on voices is fresh in China."
Initial auditions are under way in six cities, including Liaoning's provincial capital Shenyang and Shaanxi's provincial capital Xi'an. Applicants must be at least age 18.
In this phase, three judges - all professional musicians - will turn their backs to listen to contestants.
If they like a contender's voice, the judges will turn around and face the singer. If even one judge doesn't turn around, the contestant is out.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Madonna Beastie Boys Yauch was one of a kind
NEW YORK — Madonna says Adam Yauch, the Beastie Boys rapper who died Friday, was one of a kind and that the group was important to her musical history.
The singer says the seminal hip-hop group was "integral to the musical revolution that was happening at the time."
Yauch's representatives confirmed that the rapper, also known as MCA, died Friday morning in New York after a nearly three-year battle with cancer.
Madonna says she was sad to hear of Yauch's death and asked God to bless his family.
The Beastie Boys opened for Madonna on tour in the 1980s, and the group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last month.
The singer says the seminal hip-hop group was "integral to the musical revolution that was happening at the time."
Yauch's representatives confirmed that the rapper, also known as MCA, died Friday morning in New York after a nearly three-year battle with cancer.
Madonna says she was sad to hear of Yauch's death and asked God to bless his family.
The Beastie Boys opened for Madonna on tour in the 1980s, and the group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last month.
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