K.Michelle stopped by The Touch studio to talk about her upcoming album "Rebellious Soul" which will be released on August 13th
Tuesday, 30 July 2013
Photo Courtesy: Cumulus Media
Robin Thicke has been confirmed as one of the performers for this year's Virgin Mobile FreeFest.
The crooner will take the stage on September 21 at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, according to event organizers, alongside various rockers including Vampire Weekend and MGMT.
Concertgoers will be able to score free passes for the annual showcase by visiting Ticketfly.com beginning August 9. Last year, the event, which helps promote awareness about ending youth homelessness, attracted more than 50,000 attendees.
Robin is expected to perform new material off his Blurred Lines album, which will hit stores this week. The Virgin Mobile FreeFest marks the last U.S. performance Robin has scheduled until he returns next year from a string of overseas dates, including an appearance at Apple's iTunes Festival on September 28 in the U.K.
Image Courtesy of Keith Allison Via Wikipedia
Keyshia Cole's husband, Daniel "Boobie" Gibson, was arrested on Monday morning for allegedly getting into a fight at a nightclub during the Essence Music Festival earlier this month.
The professional basketball player, 27, has been booked on a second-degree battery charge after he allegedly broke the jaw of an unidentified male victim following a heated argument on July 8, according to TMZ.
Law enforcement sources for the New Orleans Police Department told TMZ that Gibson was released on bond shortly after turning himself in.
On Monday afternoon, Gibson confirmed the incident in a statement: "Earlier this month during the Essence Music Festival, I was involved in an incident with other individuals while I was out with my wife." He goes on to add, "It's unfortunate that some see opportunity in taking advantage of people who work hard for what they have achieved... Once all the facts of the incident come out, I expect to be fully vindicated."
Following his performance at the BET Awards, R. Kelly has issued new music for his loyal fans.
The singer has released a new single, "My Story," which includes guest verses from go-to rapper of the moment 2 Chainz. The record serves as the lead offering for the R&B legend's upcoming twelfth album, Black Panties.
"This is my story/Yeah I'm from that Chi-town dirt/I went from being broke to sleeping in Versace shirts," he sings on the semi-autobiographical tune.
Kelz' highly anticipated follow-up to 2012's Write Me Back is being described as a sequel to his 1993 debut album, 12 Play, which spawned classic hit songs like "Bump N Grind," "Your Body's Callin'" and "It Seems Like You're Ready."
The launch date for Black Panties has yet to be announced. "My Story" is available on iTunes now.
Beyonce has not only added dates to her already extensive outing, The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, she's also requested rapper Iggy Azalea to serve as the opening act for the Australian leg.
Iggy announced the news via her Instagram page in a short video where she can be seen riding a scooter, screaming, "I’m going on tour with Beyonce! I love you Beyonce, I love you for life." The trek will coincide with Iggy’s debut album, The New Classic, due this fall.
The 17-date trek begins later this fall on October 17 in Auckland, New Zealand, before traveling to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide, Australia, wrapping November 9 in Perth.
Queen B is currently in the midst of the North American leg of her tour, with Luke James as the opening act. Visit Beyonce.com for a list off her tour itinerary.
Here are dates for The Mrs. Carter Show tour of Australia and New Zealand:
- 10/17 -- Vector Arena, Auckland
- 10/18 -- Vector Arena, Auckland
- 10/19 -- Vector Arena, Auckland
- 10/22 -- Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
- 10/23 -- Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
- 10/25 -- Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
- 10/26 -- Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
- 10/28 -- Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
- 10/29 -- Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
- 10/31 -- Allphones Arena, Sydney
- 11/1 -- Allphones Arena, Sydney
- 11/2 -- Allphones Arena, Sydney
- 11/3 -- Allphones Arena, Sydney
- 11/5 -- Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
- 11/6 -- Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
- 11/8 -- Perth Arena, Perth
- 11/9 -- Perth Arena, Perth
Monday, 29 July 2013
Image Credit: Public Domain
Aretha Franklin will be presented with Major League Baseball's Beacon Award at a special ceremony that will take place August 24 at Chicago's U.S. Cellular Field prior to the seventh annual Civil Rights game. The awards are handed out to people whose "lives embody the spirit of the civil rights movement."
In honoring the Queen of Soul, Major League Baseball cites her inspirational performances during the 1960s in support of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s campaign for civil rights, while also noting that her classic rendition of "Respect" helped spread a message of equality.
Franklin will be presented with a Beacon Award alongside multiple sports star Bo Jackson, who will be honored for his work in raising money to aid Alabama tornado victims. Franklin and Jackson also will be saluted during a luncheon held before the Civil Rights Game.
"The MLB Beacon Awards offer a positive reminder that there are individuals who use their celebrity and fame to make a positive difference in our society," says MLB executive and Baseball Hall of Famer Frank Robinson. "Major League Baseball is honored to bestow this special recognition on Bo Jackson and Aretha Franklin and to have them be a part of our weekend activities surrounding the Civil Rights Game."
The game, which will see the Chicago White Sox take on the Texas Rangers, will air live on the MLB Network starting at 7:10 p.m. ET/6:10 p.m. CT.
Previous Major League Baseball Beacon Award winners include Carlos Santana, Earth, Wind & Fire and Harry Belafonte.
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
Robin Thicke's smash hit single "Blurred Lines" has broken another record, at least so says Robin's record label.
According to Interscope Records, the track has reached more than 242.65 million radio listeners, which Interscope says surpasses the previous record of 188.8 million.
The crooner's summer anthem, which includes guest verses from Pharrell and T.I., also holds the title for most downloads in a given week so far in 2013 -- with 428,477 total downloads during the week ending June 23, the label reports. The party record has become Thicke's first song ever to hit one million downloads with total sales now at 3.6 million.
The song currently sits atop the Billboard Hot 100 for a seventh week, making it the longest-running #1 single of the year. "Blurred Lines" is also an international hit in 64 countries, including Ireland, Germany, Australia and New Zealand.
Robin's 11-song album, also called Blurred Lines, is due Tuesday.
Toni Braxton has settled her bankruptcy case, but in the process she reportedly lost some 27 songs from her publishing catalog.
Toni made a deal in the case earlier this month that allowed for her to repurchase the tunes for 20 thousand dollars, but she was outbid by a man named Ross M. Klein, who paid close to 40 thousand for the catalog. Klein now owns Toni's hits "How Many Ways," "You're Making Me High" and "Always."
However, it appears as though Toni still maintains the rights to one of her biggest hits, "Un-Break My Heart," according to TMZ.
Fan footage has surfaced of a rare moment of PDA between Beyonce and Jay Z.
The rapper surprised his wife on stage during Beyonce’s Philadelphia stop of her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour. Just before the singer ended her set at the Wells Fargo Center, Jay Z playfully sneaked up behind her and planted a kiss on her cheek.
A shocked Beyonce tried to regain her composure after Hov scurried backstage, while the entire audience cheered.
Photographs from the adorable moment were later posted on Beyonce's official blog. Meanwhile, fans can expect the Mrs. Carter Show World Tour to continue to travel on the East Coast, making stops in Atlantic City, NJ; Charlotte, NC; Washington D.C.; and New York City. The trek wraps on December 20 in Boston.
Chris Brown Shares Another New Song, "Go to War for Ya"
Chris Brown has previewed another new song for his fans.
Breezy uploaded a sneak peek of a track called "Go to War for Ya" to his official Chris Brown Channel on Entrago.com. "Some new stuff for ya'll I recorded last night," he writes in the accompanying post.
In the three-minute video clip, a shirtless Chris dons a white fitted cap and green shorts as he sings along to the new tune in his kitchen while smoking a cigarette.
"I'm gonna go to war for ya, I'm gonna be a warrior/I'm gonna make sure you're safe with me," he sings on the smooth cut, which also includes a rap verse from Breezy.
The new clip follows similar teasers for new songs "Sex You Up", "Something Special," "When I Love Ya" and "Girl You Loud," which were released last week.
It's unknown if "Go to War for Ya" will make the final track list for his recently delayed album, X, due out later this summer.
The disc will include his latest single "Love More" featuring Nicki Minaj -- which has claimed the number-two spot on the iTunes Top R&B Songs chart -- as well as "Fine China" and "Don't Think They Know" featuring Aaliyah.
Friday, 26 July 2013
The Wolverine is a solo character study of Logan/Wolverine. The movie takes us deep into the psyche of the clawed superhero. So, if the previous X-Men movies could be compared to one of those expensive bags of designer jellybeans; The Wolverine would be a bag of jellybeans that are all one flavor; let’s say grape. The problem is, not everyone likes grape jellybeans.
The Wolverine doesn’t have the same feel of the X-Men series. First it was directed by James Mangold, who’s directed dramatic movie like “Walk the Line” and “Girl, Interrupted”. Secondly, while the movie has plenty of action, it’s not the same kind of comic book action we’ve come to expect from an X-Men movie. As a matter of fact, with the fancy sports cars and exotic locations, The Wolverine reminded me more of the 007 franchise than the X-Men series. However, it is still a movie worth watching.
In The Wolverine Logan (Hugh Jackman) is summoned to Japan to meet with a soldier whose life he saved during World War II. The soldier, old and dying, is now a wealthy industrialist in Japan, who offers Logan the opportunity switch places with him and to end his immortality. Logan declines.
In the aftermath of his death war breaks out between two rival Japanese triads; one group who wants to kidnap the old man’s granddaughter to seize control of his empire and a group of Ninja warriors who are loyal to the dead man’s family. Instead Logan rescues the young woman and they go on the lamb; while being tracked by both rival gangs through ought the Japanese countryside.
During the movie Wolverine continues to be haunted by his past, with constant visions of Dr. Jean Grey in his dreams. The circumstances he encounters in Japan force him to deal with his issues and get back into the game that he wanted to walk away from. The entire movie is a perfect set-up for the new X-Men movie which will be released next summer (more on that in a moment).
The Wolverine is rated PG-13 for violence (and a little bit of sexuality). The movie is just over two hours long and on my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate The Wolverine a LARGE.
Also, be sure and stay through the end of the credits. There is a scene at the very end of the movie with Logan in the airport that sets the stage for “X-Men Days of Future”. Those final seconds are NOT to be missed.
Hollywood Hernandez
Read more movie reviews by Hollywood at touchmoviereviews.blogspot.com
Image Credit: VH1
TLC is gearing up for a major comeback, 11 years after their last album. The best-selling R&B girl group in history has new material, a reunion concert performance and TV biopic in the works.
The new material will appear on a just-announced greatest hits package which will feature four new tracks, including "Meant to Be," which was penned by Ne-Yo. TLC also tapped Dallas Austin and Lady Gaga for songwriting and production on the set. The collection is due for release on October 15. The set reunites the group with mentor L.A. Reid.
Meanwhile, VH1 has posted a two-minute preview of the biopic, CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story. The preview shows Lil Mama as Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Keke Palmer as Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas and Drew Sidora as Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins reprising some of the performances from TLC's most famous music videos. The movie is slated to premiere on VH1 on October 21.
Finally, fans can catch T-Boz and Chilli performing live during the group's reunion performance at this year's Mixtape Festival, with Lil Mama as their special guest filling the shoes of the late Lopes who died in a 2003 car crash. The event takes place on July 27 at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey Park, PA.
"For ten years we have been mourning the death of our sister Lisa, and although we have discussed the option of bringing in someone to perform with us, it never felt right at the time," Chilli said in a statement. "Watching Lil Mama on the set of our movie CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story reminded us of Lisa's spirit, and, for the first time since her passing, we felt everything come together in an organic way."
T-Boz adds, "By bringing [Lil Mama] in, we will continue to keep TLC's music alive for a new generation of fans. We are thrilled to be writing this new chapter in the TLC story."
Despite earlier reports, Kanye West is not completely in the clear following his recent scuffle with a paparazzo at Los Angeles International Airport.
Frank Mateljan [pr: mah-TELL-jan], public information officer at the L.A. City Attorney’s office, tells ABC News Radio that TMZ’s report that Kanye won’t face any criminal charges over the incident is “speculative,” adding that the investigation is currently in its early stages.
As previously reported, on Friday Kanye allegedly fought with a photographer attempting to wrestle away his camera. TMZ reported that the case was referred for prosecution as a felony attempted robbery and not a battery, since the felony attempted robbery is the more serious charge. But Mateljan tells ABC News Radio that the City Attorney's office hasn't received anything from the Sheriff's office.
The photog, who goes by the name Dano, was taken to a local hospital for medical attention after the incident. He is the same paparazzo who was attacked by a then-bald Britney Spears in the infamous umbrella incident back in 2007.
Thursday, 25 July 2013
As one third of the supergroup TGT, Tyrese wants everyone to know why its crucial to support his upcoming collaborative effort alongside Ginuwine and Tank.
The singer recently wrote a lengthy post on his Instagram page, expressing his excitement for the trio's album, 3 KINGS.
"I wanna tell you all something...I've never lied to my fans and or supporters," he begins. "This TGT album is the most important album... It's true R&B music through and through its something beyond what you could ever imagine."
He believes the project, which includes their new single "I Need," is the best R&B "album in the last 10 years."
"I can't stop listening to it as a real fan of MUSIC!!! 17 songs with all 3 of us singing on every record," he shares. Tyrese then encourages fans to pre-order the disc now via iTunes in an effort to make a "huge statement that true RnB fans are still here."
He goes on to add, "I'm inspired and I give you my WORD that this album won't disappoint."
Led by "Sex Never Felt Better," 3 KINGS is slated for an August 20 release via Atlantic Records. Meanwhile, TGT is winding down from current outing, dubbed The 3 Kings Tour, which will conclude on August 4 at the Civic Center Theatre in Atlanta.
In related news, the trio received more than a million views on WorldStarHipHop.com following their lackluster performance last week on WLNY's morning news show, The Couch. Tank later joked about the performance on Twitter, "I think we should rehearse fellas."
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
Ron Isley CD Giveaway
Ronald Isley’s latest album, This Song Is for You, has debuted at number 27 on the Billboard 200 chart, becoming the highest-charting release of his solo career.
The singer's disc, which includes duets with Trey Songz and Kem, outperformed 2010's Mr. I, which entered the chart at number 50, and his collaborative effort with Burt Bacharach, Here I Am, which opened in the number 73 slot in 2003.
The legendary crooner and lead singer of the Isley Brothers, whose career spans five decades, is excited to hit the road to support his newest offering.
Ron recently tweeted about touring with Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Kem, beginning this Friday, July 26 in Detroit. He wrote, "I hope to see all my friends and fans there!" The summer outing will run through various U.S. cities before wrapping up at the Chastain Park Amphitheatre in Atlanta on September 1.
Elsewhere on the Billboard 200 chart, Ciara's self-titled album sits a few slots above Isley's, at number 20. The disc, led by her hit single "Body Party," debuted last week at number two.
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Looks like we have a new chart champion of 2013: Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines." The song stays atop the Billboard Hot 100 for a seventh week, making it the longest-running #1 single of the year.
The previous champ was "Thrift Shop," by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, which spent six non-consecutive weeks at #1 earlier this year. No song has stayed at #1 longer than seven weeks since last fall, when Maroon 5 spent nine weeks at the top with "One More Night."
Meanwhile, someone had the bright idea to create a video mash-up of "Blurred Lines" and the memorable theme song from the '80s sitcom Growing Pains. Why? Because Robin's dad, Alan Thicke, starred on the show. Alan's face and pictures of his co-stars in the show appear in the mash-up, called "Blurring Pains."
Alan, who co-wrote the theme songs to classic sitcoms like The Facts of Life and Diff'rent Strokes, has contributed a song to Robin's upcoming album, also called Blurred Lines.
A rep for Beyonce is denying a report which claims that the singer's upcoming album is months behind schedule and that her record label is concerned about the project's mounting cost.
On Wednesday The Hollywood Reporter, citing unnamed sources, said Beyonce has auditioned and rejected more than 50 songs already as she searches for a direction for the new record. The Reporter also said Columbia Records had hoped to have the album in hand this spring, then again this fall, but now a fall release also seems unlikely.
However, a rep for Beyonce categorically denied the report. Speaking to The Huffington Post, the rep said the album never had a planned release date and so it can't be behind schedule.
Ne-Yo, The-Dream, Ryan Tedder, Diplo and songwriter Diane Warren reportedly have all had songs under consideration for the upcoming record, Beyonce's fifth solo album and the follow up to 2011's 4.
Beyonce's rep tells The Huffington Post that a suitable press roll out will accompany any official release date or official delay announcement as the singer continues to work on new material while on the road with her Mrs. Carter World Tour.
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Robin Thicke's summer smash, "Blurred Lines," featuring T.I. and Pharrell, has catapulted his career to new heights.
On the heels of the comedy video that has former President Bill Clinton seeming to cover his hit single, Thicke's dance record remains at number one on Billboard's Hot Digital Songs chart. The party anthem sold an additional 340,000 downloads, with total sales now over 3.6 million.
In addition, Robin's title track marks his first song to top of the Billboard Hot 100, and his first ever to hit one million downloads.
As he prepares for the release of his upcoming album, Blurred Lines, Robin recently engaged in live Twitter Q&A with fans via iTunes Music. When asked what he hopes fans take away from the new disc, the singer revealed, "I want people to feel good, escape, dance and love each other."
Robin also described his songwriting process for Blurred Lines as "whatever I'm going through at that moment." He adds that he hopes to one day collaborate with Dr Dre and Kanye West.
Blurred Lines will be available on July 30. Meanwhile, ABC News Radio has confirmed with Interscope Records that the singer's next single will be his Kendrick Lamar-assisted tune, titled "Give It 2 U."
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
Eve has announces plans to embark on a summer tour to support her latest album, Lip Lock, which was released this past May.
The rapper's forthcoming outing, aptly called The Lip Lock Tour, is scheduled to kick off on August 26 in Washington, D.C., at the Howard Theatre, according to XXLMag.com.
The short trek will see the self-proclaimed pitbull-in-a-skirt travel to six other major cities, including New York and Los Angeles, before wrapping up on September 8 in Aspen, Colorado.
In addition, fans can expect the rapper, who is currently on vaction in the Maldives from which she posted photos to Instagram, to bring out special guests on certain dates. Tickets for select dates are now available to the general public through TicketMaster.com.
Here are The Lip Lock Tour dates:
- 8/26 -- Washington, D.C., Howard Theatre
- 8/28 -- New York, NY, Irving Plaza
- 8/31 -- Detroit, MI, Chene Park
- 9/1 -- Minneapolis, MN, Epic
- 9/5 -- Los Angeles, CA, The Roxy
- 9/6 -- Oakland, CA, Grand Live
- 9/7 -- Denver, CO, Radio Show (TBA)
- 9/8 -- Aspen, CO, Belly Up
Image Credit: Cumulus Media
According to John Legend's official Facebook page, the singer is gearing up to embark on a fall outing, dubbed the Made to Love Tour.
Legend's upcoming trek will include special guest Tamar Braxton, beginning on October 20 in Mashantucket, Connecticut.
The six-week North American tour will hit major U.S. cities including New York City, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Detroit and Miami before wrapping up on December 1 in L.A.
Fans can expect both performers to showcase new material, since the outing will further promote their respective albums -- John's Love in the Future and Tamar's Love and War -- both of which hit retailers September 3.
Additional cities, pre-sale passes and ticket sale information will be announced at a later time.
Here are the Made to Love Tour dates:
- 10/20 -- Mashantucket, CT, MGM Grand at Foxwoods
- 10/22 -- Boston, MA, Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre
- 10/23 -- Washington, D.C., DAR Constitution Hall
- 10/25 -- Atlantic City, NJ, Revel Casino Hotel Ovation Hall
- 10/28 -- New York, NY, Beacon Theatre
- 10/31 -- Durham, NC, Durham Performing Arts Center
- 11/1 -- Atlanta, GA, Fox Theatre
- 11/3 -- Miami Beach, FL, The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater
- 11/4 -- Clearwater, FL, Ruth Eckerd Hall
- 11/6 -- Austin, TX, Bass Concert Hall
- 11/7 -- Grand Prairie, TX, Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie
- 11/12 -- Detroit, MI, Fox Theatre
- 11/13 -- Toronto, ONT, Sony Centre for the Performing Arts
- 11/18 -- Milwaukee, WI, Riverside Theater
- 11/19 -- Minneapolis, MN, State Theatre
- 11/21 -- Denver, CO, Ellie Caulkins Opera House
- 11/22 -- Salt Lake City, UT, Kingsbury Hall University of Utah
- 11/24 -- Vancouver, BC, Orpheum Theatre
- 11/25 -- Seattle, WA, Paramount Theater
- 11/27 -- Oakland, CA, Paramount Theater
- 11/30 -- Las Vegas, NV, The Pearl Concert Theatre at PalmsCasino Resort
- 12/1 -- Los Angeles, CA, Nokia Theatre L.A. Live
Chris Brown reportedly has pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor charge of hit and run, following his car accident this past May.
According to TMZ, the singer has until August 6 to be booked officially at the police station. He also needs to have a mug shot taken since he was never arrested at the time of the incident.
In addition, the other charges he faced in the accident -- driving without a valid license and without proof of insurance -- were dismissed.
Brown is due back in court on August 15 in the hit-and-run case. He must also appear in court on August 16 for a separate probation violation hearing in the Rihanna assault case. Chris recently had his probation revoked in that case as a result of the hit-and-run charge, but remains free on his own recognizance pending the upcoming hearing. If the judge determines that he has violated his probation, he faces up to four years in prison.
Upon learning about his probation getting revoked last week, Brown vented his frustrations via Twitter, "I did everything I was suppose to do during the so called hit n run," he wrote. "I provided the correct info. There were no injuries or damages. C'mon!!"
Tuesday, 23 July 2013
On Monday, Kelly Rowland announced that she has completed the video for her much-discussed single, "Dirty Laundry."
"Thank you so much for your patience!" she wrote and posted the link to her YouTube account.
In the clip, the former Destiny's Child member lets down her guard as she reflects on a past abusive relationship, her difficulty coming to grips with Beyonce's success and coping with industry pressures.
The video begins with Kelly laying in the fetal position, dressed in a black bathing suit, completely surrounded by black water. Suddenly, we see the singer sitting in a chair, alone in a large, empty room with a spotlight directly behind her. Her solitude seemingly matches the lyrics, "Forget the records, off the record, I was going through some bullsh**/ Post-survivor, she on fire, who wanna hear my bullsh**?"
When Kelly sings, "Meanwhile this n***a is puttin' his hands on me," there's a silhouette of a woman being physically beaten by a man.
With black shades on, Kelly flashes back to having dinner with her abusive ex-boyfriend. Fans will witness Kelly's tears and raw emotion as she sings about Bey, "Kinda lucky I was in her shadow/ Phone call from my sister, 'What's the matter?'/ She said 'Oh no, baby you gotta leave/I’m on the kitchen floor, he took the keys."
Dressed in a long white gown, she falls underwater as the song continues, "I was battered/He hittin' the window like it was me, until it shattered." Just before the visual ends, Kelly slowly resurfaces.
The-Dream-penned song is lifted from Kelly's latest album, Talk a Good Game.
In related news, the 32-year-old recently took part in a promotion for the new Jaguar F-Type series sports car as part of the automobile company's "my turn to drive" program. After her ride, Rowland tweeted, "The new @JaguarUSA
Mary Mary has joined Stevie Wonder in boycotting the state of Florida following the acquittal of George Zimmerman, who killed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin last year.
"We will stand with Stevie Wonder & boycott Florida until the Stand Your Ground Law is changed," the gospel duo tweeted. "We love our fans but we MUST do something. We understand that a No from us isn't as big as a 'No' from Stevie Wonder, but if all our voices join together we can REALLY change things."
The singers added on their official Instagram page, "Lets [sic] let our voices be heard!"
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Wonder announced at a concert in Quebec City, Canada, on July 14 that he will not perform in Florida until the state eliminates its "stand your ground" law, legislation that some believe was a factor in Zimmerman's acquittal.
"I decided today that until the stand your ground law is abolished in Florida, I will never perform there again," Wonder said from the stage, according to The Hollywood Reporter. "As a matter of fact, wherever I find that law exists, I will not perform in that state or in that part of the world."
Mary Mary is the latest among a list of celebrities, including Chris Brown, Fantasia, Jaime Foxx, Beyonce and Jay-Z, who have advocated overturning stand your ground laws as part of a response to the Trayvon Martin killing and the Zimmerman verdict.
Monday, 22 July 2013
India Arie "SongVersation" CD Giveaway
Four time Grammy Award winner, India Arie is back with new music on Motown Records called, “Song Versation” and this week Your Station for Today’s R&B and Old School has it for you!
Enter the drawing for a chance to win "SongVersation" CD by texting keyword "INDIA" along with your name and address to 62582. Standard text messaging rates apply.
You can also submit your entry through our website by clicking HERE.
You can also submit your entry through our website by clicking HERE.
This contest is available July 22 thru July 26 courtesy of Motown.
To opt out of receiving text messages from The Touch simply send the word "STOP" to 62582 at any time. If you need help simply send the word "HELP" to 62582.
Read our Privacy Statement HERE.
Friday, 19 July 2013
RED 2
The opening scene in RED 2 takes place in a COSTCO. Frank Moses (Bruce Willis) has retired and is living the suburban dream life with his girlfriend Sarah (Mary-Louise Parker). While the couple is shopping for wholesale items one of his covert ops buddies, Marvin (John Malkovich), pops up in the next aisle and tries to convince Frank that his life is in danger because of a story that has been leaked that links his name to a mad scientist who’s hidden a portable nuclear device somewhere in the world. Frank declines the invitation to get back into the life, until his friend’s SUV is bombed in the Costco parking lot, leaving him for dead. Or is he?
After being picked up for questioning by the government the former Black Ops agent has two contracts put out on his life and has no choice but to join the caper to keep himself and his girlfriend alive. The two paid killers are Victoria (Helen Mirren), a former member of his clique from the previous movie, and Han (Byung-Hun Lee) a Korean hit man with the reputation of being the world’s deadliest killer.
So, the journey begins as the RED (Retired Extremely Dangerous) team travels the world in search of a portable weapon of mass destruction, which could kill thousands if it is unleashed on an unsuspecting public in any corner of the world, and dodging government agents, armies and hired killers. And the movie does it all with non-stop humor. RED 2 is an action comedy in the truest sense. Plenty of action and plenty of laughs.
Morgan Freeman is missing from this one (you may recall he was killed in the previous movie) but Catherine Zeta-Jones as a Russian agent (Katja) and Anthony Hopkins, as the crazy scientist who created the portable weapon, step in to complete the ensemble cast very admirably. Byung-Hun Lee (from the two previous G.I. Joe movies) is also a fresh addition to the cast. He shines as a globe hopping, rich hit man.
RED 2 is just a lot of fun. It’s really fun to see the “senior citizens” kicking butt and teaching their younger peers a thing or two about killing and mayhem. I really enjoyed the thrill ride.
RED 2 is rated PG-13 for non-stop gun play and violence and the movie lasts 116 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” RED 2 gets a JUMBO!
Hollywood Hernandez
Read more movie reviews by Hollywood at touchmoviereviews.blogspot.com
Beyonce is a true triple threat. On Thursday, the singer received three Emmy nominations for this year's Super Bowl Halftime Show.
The show was recognized with technical nods, including Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Variety Special.
Beyonce's stellar performance, which was seen by 104 million viewers, is the second highest-rated Super Bowl halftime showcase of all time. Madonna's 2012 show with Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. holds the record.
The 65th Primetime Emmy Awards will air live on Sunday, September 22 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS. You can head to Emmys.com for a complete list of this year's nominees.
Earth, Wind & Fire will celebrate the arrival of their latest album, Now, Then & Forever, with a special concert that will air live on HSN later this summer. The show, which will take place August 30 at The Venetian casino and hotel in Las Vegas, will feature the funk/soul greats playing selections from the new record.
The concert will begin at 11 p.m. ET and will run for 90 minutes, with the first hour being shown on HSN and the next 30 minutes being streamed exclusively via the shopping network's digital platforms. Earth, Wind & Fire will be joined by a number of as-yet-unannounced guests during the event.
An exclusive two-CD package featuring Now, Then & Forever and a bonus disc featuring six of the band's classic hits can be pre-ordered now at HSN.com for $12.95. Among the tracks on the extra CD are "Shining Star," "Boogie Wonderland" and a "Beautiful Latin" mix of "September."
"The Now, Then & Forever album is really about the legacy of Earth, Wind & Fire," says co-founding singer Philip Bailey in a statement. Adds fellow co-founder Verdine White, "The album gave us the opportunity to tie everything together musically and culturally…We dedicate this album...to all the fans."
Now, Then & Forever is scheduled to get its official release on September 10. Earth, Wind & Fire will launch a U.S. tour in support of the record on September 6 in San Diego, and the band also has August 3 and 4 shows scheduled in Hawaii.
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
After a three-year hiatus, Donell Jones has cracked the top 10 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart with his comeback album Forever.
The disc reached the number eight position with 12,000 copies sold in its first week. It's currently number 20 on the cross-genre Billboard 200 chart.
The crooner is encouraging all his fans to continue to support his latest effort. "If you loved where I wanna be album then you gotta hear my new album #forever I'm not just talking see for yourself it's fire," he tweeted, continuing, "this joint is pure R&B and its vintage DJones."
"Yo fellas you wanna have this album," he added. "I'm told its does something to the ladies lol let me help you set the mood with this joint."
His E1 Music independent offering has delivered his best R&B chart position since 2006's
Journey of a Gemini opened at number one.Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio
Thursday, 18 July 2013
Wednesday, 17 July 2013
It wasn't that long ago that K. Michelle announced that her debut album, Rebellious Soul, will drop later this summer. Now the official artwork and track listing for the project has been released.
The Love & Hip Hop Atlanta reality star opted against recruiting any guest features on the 11-track effort. She tweeted, "Grateful for my fans. Thank y'all for supporting me. I can't wait for y'all to hear the album!" She adds, "I promise to always give y'all my best."
Led by her hit single, "V.S.O.P," Rebellious Soul will be hit retailers on August 13. It'll be available for pre-order on iTunes at midnight, July 16.
Here's the Rebellious Soul track listing:
- "My Life"
- "Damn"
- "I Don’t Like Me"
- "Can’t Raise a Man"
- "V.S.O.P."
- "Pay My Bills"
- "Sometimes"
- "It’s Too Late"
- "Hate on Her"
- "When I Get a Man"
- "A Mother’s Prayer"
The third and final wave of music nominees for Fox’s Teen Choice 2013 awards has been announced.
Jay-Z and Justin Timberlake both received two nods on Tuesday: choice summer music star: male; and choice summer tour.
Robin Thicke was also recognized, scoring two nods: choice summer song, for “Blurred Lines” featuring Pharrell Williams and T.I., as well as for choice summer music star: male.
In addition, Beyonce's current The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour is up for choice summer tour, while Rihanna is a contender for choice summer music star: female
Teens can see a complete list of nominees and cast their vote until August 10 via TeenChoiceAwards.com. The Teen Choice Awards will air Sunday, August 11, live on Fox from 8-10 p.m. ET.
Here’s the final wave of music nominees:
Choice Summer Song
- “Blurred Lines,” Robin Thicke (feat. Pharrell Williams & T.I)
- “Cruise (REMIX),” Florida Georgia Line (feat. Nelly)
- “Get Lucky,” Daft Punk (feat. Pharrell Williams)
- “Treasure,” Bruno Mars
- “We Can't Stop,” Miley Cyrus
Choice Summer Music Star: Female
- Miley Cyrus
- Ariana Grande
- Selena Gomez
- P!nk
- Rihanna
Choice Summer Music Star: Male
- Jay-Z
- Bruno Mars
- Pitbull
- Robin Thicke
- Justin Timberlake
Choice Summer Music Star: Group
- Daft Punk
- Florida Georgia Line
- Imagine Dragons
- Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
- Maroon 5
Choice Summer Tour
- Beyonce, “The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour”
- Bruno Mars, “The Moonshine Jungle Tour”
- Jay-Z and Justin Timberlake, “Legends of the Summer Tour”
- One Direction, “Take Me Home Tour”
- Taylor Swift, “Red Tour 2013”
Stevie Wonder has joined the list of celebrities voicing their opposition to the recent acquittal of George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch member who shot and killed unarmed teen Trayvon Martin during a confrontation in February 2012 in Sanford, Florida.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Motown legend announced at a concert in Quebec City, Canada, on Sunday that he will not perform in Florida until the state eliminates its "Stand Your Ground" law, legislation that some believe was a factor in Zimmerman avoiding a guilty verdict.
"I decided today that until the Stand Your Ground law is abolished in Florida, I will never perform there again," Wonder said from the stage. "As a matter of fact, wherever I find that law exists, I will not perform in that state or in that part of the world."
Leading into his emotional announcement, Stevie declared, "The truth is that -- for those of you who've lost in the battle for justice, wherever that fits in any part of the world -- we can't bring them back. What we can do is we can let our voices be heard. And we can vote in our various countries throughout the world for change and equality for everybody."
He added about his boycott decision, "You can't just talk about it, you gotta be about it."
Wonder also maintained that in taking a stand, people "can make change for the coming together of the spirit of unity -- not in destruction, but in the perpetuation of life."
John Legend graces the cover of Uptown magazine's July issue. Inside, the R&B veteran speaks about his upcoming album, Love in the Future, which he describes as "purely autobiographical."
Legend says of the album title, "I am beginning a new journey...it is about embracing that future with optimism and hope and knowing that it’s going to be an interesting journey."
After confirming his wedding ceremony will be in the fall, John adds that he's "looking forward to having kids and growing old together" with fiance Chrissy Teigen. He shares, "We have already been together for quite some time. It’s been great."
On the topic of babies, the singer, who is good friends and a frequent collaborator with Kanye West, gives his take on what kind of father 'Ye will be to his newborn daughter, North West.
"I don’t know and I don’t want to speculate," he explains. "Fatherhood is something that you grow into. No one is born a father."
"You do not start learning to be a father until you meet your child. But [as an artist], he is focused, passionate, and on a mission to get his thoughts out. He will continue to have people talking and challenge his listeners. That’s his role and he has been great in that role so far," Legend says.
John reveals that Kanye will lend his "creative genius" to Love in the Future, which is expected to arrive on September 3 via G.O.O.D. Music/Columbia.
Tuesday, 16 July 2013
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Just when you thought Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines" was beginning to lose steam, the summer smash has reclaimed its former top spot on the Official U.K. Singles Chart.
The record, which includes guest verses from Pharrell and T.I., previously spent two weeks as the runner-up, according to the Official Charts Company.
"Blurred Lines," the title track from Robin's upcoming album, reportedly sold over 80,000 copies in Britain last week, bringing its collective tally to 998,000 copies sold after just seven weeks on sale. The dance track, which sits comfortably atop the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard R&B Songs chart, is a hit in some 64 countries, including Ireland, Germany, Australia and New Zealand.
Before Robin drops Blurred Lines, Interscope Records has released another song off the project, "Go Stupid 4 U," in advance of the album's July 30 release date.
India.Arie is ready to perform for you and yours during her upcoming North American tour, Soulbird Presents a SongVersation with India.Arie.
The singer has announced dates for her fall outing which opens September 21 in Seattle, making stops in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and New York, among other cities, before concluding on November 24 in Boston.
The 29-date tour comes in support of her latest album, SongVersation, which became her fifth number one on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and fifth top 10 debut on the cross-genre Billboard 200 chart. India tells ABC News Radio what she enjoys most about connecting with her fans live in concert.
"Everything, like just that moment when you're there and there's nothing else that you're thinking of, your whole mind, body and spirit, everything is doing the same thing," she explains. "Because, you know, for the rest of your day, you're multitasking and stuff -- on stage it's just all living for that moment. And I love being with the audience and seeing how people react to things. You know that's why I created SongVersation because there's always more to do then just sing, its a fellowship if you want it to be. So I just love it."
The "Cocoa Butter" singer, who took an extended hiatus from music, spilled on why she thinks people will enjoy her fifth studio effort.
"I think that the music that I make all throughout my career, but even more so with SongVersation, is music for people who are looking for meaning," she says. "So if you're looking for meaning inside of your entertainment, I think that anyone who is cerebral and creative together, like thinkers who are creative, people who love unique voices, that's what I am."
Tickets India's tour go on sale to the general public this Friday, July 19, while special VIP packages will be available for purchase beginning tomorrow, July 16, via Ticketmaster.com.
Here are the dates for Soulbird Presents A SongVersation with India.Arie:
- 9/21 -- Seattle, WA, The Neptune
- 9/22 -- Portland, OR, Aladdin Theater
- 9/24 -- San Francisco, Warfield Theater
- 9/26 -- Anaheim, CA, City National Grove of Anaheim
- 9/27 -- Los Angeles, CA, Club Nokia
- 10/1 -- Dallas, TX, South Side Music Hall
- 10/2 -- Houston, TX, Bayou Music Center
- 10/4 -- Austin, TX, Moody Theater
- 10/6 --New Orleans, LA, House of Blues
- 10/8 -- Charlotte, NC, Fillmore
- 10/9 -- Nashville, TN, Ryman Auditorium
- 10/11 -- Orlando, FL , House of Blues
- 10/12 -- Clearwater, FL, The Palladium
- 10/13 -- Miami, FL, Fillmore
- 10/17 -- Jacksonville, FL, Florida Theater
- 10/18 -- Atlanta, GA, Cobb Energy Centre
- 10/27-- Memphis, TN, Orpheum
- 10/29 -- Durham, NC, Durham PAC
- 10/30-- Washington, DC, Warner Theater
- 11/1 -- Northampton, MA, Iron Horse
- 11/2 -- New York, NY, Beacon Theater
- 11/3 -- Huntington, NY, The Paramount
- 11/16 -- Hammond, IN, The Venue at Horseshoe Casino
- 11/17 -- Detroit, MI, Motor City Casino
- 11/19 -- Cincinnati, OH, Taft Theater
- 11/20 -- Cleveland, OH, House of Blues
- 11/22 -- Baltimore, MD, Rams Head Live
- 11/23 -- Philadelphia, PA, Keswick Theater
- 11/24 -- Boston, MA, Wilbur Theater
Mariah Carey celebrated the Fourth of July in part by posting an Instagram video of herself waving a miniature American flag while wearing a red bikini. The clip didn’t bother her husband, Nick Cannon, one bit.
Nick tells People magazine that if it makes Mariah happy, he encourages her to do that kind of stuff. This is how he rationalizes it: "When you got it, flaunt it. It's a beautiful thing to be a mother and to be able to express your sexuality."
He says he and his 43-year-old wife are secure with who they are. Besides, the 32-year-old Nick adds, "I actually grew up as one of those guys that loved to see those pictures."
Mariah showed off her fashion sense Saturday night at her concert at New York’s Central Park, wearing a couple of different slings, including one that was sequined and another that was feathery. Mariah dislocated her shoulder the previous weekend during an accident on the set of her new music video.
On Monday a judge in Los Angeles revoked Chris Brown's probation in the 2009 assault on then-girlfriend Rihanna as a result of misdemeanor hit-and-run charges he currently faces, stemming from a car accident in May.
However, Brown was not ordered jail and and was released on his own recognizance. He is due back in court on August 16. If, at that time, it is determined that Chris violated his probation, he could face up to four years in prison.
Shortly after Monday's hearing, Brown vented his frustrations via Twitter, "I did everything I was suppose to do during the so called hit n run," he wrote. "I provided the correct info. There were no injuries or damages. C'mon!!"
He adds, "Love you Team Breezy. I hope people can actually see the truth."
Monday, 15 July 2013
Ronald Isley talks about his new CD on E One Music called, "This Song Is For You". Click here to listen to the interview!
K. Michelle is gearing up to release her debut album, Rebellious Soul, later this summer.
The Memphis native recently announced on Twitter that her project will be available for purchase on August 13 through Atlantic Records.
After she thanked Meek Mill for contributing to her project, the singer also tweeted, "Pre-orders for my debut album #RebelliousSoul will be available Tuesday, July 16th!"
The disc was initially expected to arrive on July 30, at which time Love & Hip Hop Atlanta reality star wrote, "I can’t thank my fans enough for the unconditional love and support. I want this album to be perfect! Thank you for your patience."
Earlier this month, the singer released the Benny Boom-directed clip for her hit single, "V.S.O.P."
(John Legend's management)
John Legend has released the official artwork and track list for his upcoming album, Love in the Future, posting both to Facebook.
The "Made to Love" singer kept the collaborations on the light side for the album, recruiting only Rick Ross and his artist Stacy Barthe, each appearing on one track on the 16-track standard edition of the album. Seal guest stars on a song called "We Love It" on the deluxe version.
The G.O.O.D. Music artist is expected to release his highly anticipated disc on September 3.
Here's the Love in the Future track list:
- "Love in the Future" (Intro)
- "The Beginning…"
- "Open Your Eyes"
- "Made to Love"
- "Who Do We Think We Are" (featuring Rick Ross)
- "All of Me"
- "Hold On Longer"
- "Save the Night"
- "Tomorrow"
- "What If I Told You?" (Interlude)
- "Dreams"
- "Wanna Be Loved"
- "Angel (Interlude)" (featuring Stacy Barthe)
- "You & I (Nobody in the World)"
- "Asylum"
- "Caught Up"
Bonus Tracks (Deluxe Edition):
- "So Gone"
- "We Loved It" (featuring Seal)
- "Aim High"
- "For the First Time"
Ron Isley CD Giveaway
This Week The Touch is giving you a chance to win Ron Isley's new CD called "This Song’s For You".
Enter the drawing for a chance to win "This Song’s For You" CD by texting keyword "ISLEY" along with your name and address to 62582. Standard text messaging rates apply.
You can also submit your entry through our website by clicking HERE.
This contest is available July 15 thru July 19th courtesy of E1 MUSIC.
To opt out of receiving text messages from The Touch simply send the word "STOP" to 62582 at any time. If you need help simply send the word "HELP" to 62582.
Read our Privacy Statement HERE.
Less than 24 hours after the jury in the George Zimmerman trial found the defendant not guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Trayvon Martin, President Obama issued a statement from the White House urging "calm reflection" as rallies were held around the nation Sunday demanding justice for the slain 17-year-old.
The president, who last year said, "If I had a son, he would look like Trayvon," called the death a tragedy but insisted, "We are a nation of laws, and a jury has spoken."
Obama also brought up his crusade to enact tougher gun control legislation, adding, "We should ask ourselves if we're doing all we can to stem the tide of gun violence that claims too many lives."
Meanwhile, the verdict outraged members of the African-American community and human rights activists, who insisted that Zimmerman, a white Hispanic, had profiled Martin, an African-American, following a string of burglaries in the gated Sanford, Florida, community where their confrontation occurred on February 26, 2012.
Besides the demonstrations, which were passionate but never turned violent, an online NAACP petition calling for a federal prosecution of Zimmerman collected hundreds of thousands of signatures and at one point crashed from heavy traffic.
The trial itself lasted three weeks with a verdict reached by the six women in the jury after they had deliberated for 16 hours between Friday afternoon and late Saturday evening.
Zimmerman could have been found guilty of second-degree murder or manslaughter, which at one point the jury asked for a clarification of the lesser charge.
The trial featured numerous witnesses who described what they saw that night in February 2012 with some saying Martin was on top of Zimmerman during their fatal confrontation while others maintained the reverse was true.
Medical experts disagreed about the severity of the wounds Zimmerman received during the fight while people were also split on who was yelling for help during a series of 911 calls recorded by witnesses.
There was also unanimous agreement that Zimmerman probably should have never engaged Martin after he saw him returning from a store after the teen had bought iced tea and a bag of Skittles candy.
But as for what happened from the point they first spoke to the time that Zimmerman fired the bullet that entered Martin's heart, the only side of the story was given by the defendant, which the prosecution tried to punch holes in.
In closing arguments, prosecutor Bernie de la Rionda described Zimmerman as a liar and a frustrated wannabe cop who set out to prove himself against an unarmed teen he wrongly profiled.
Zimmerman's lead attorney implored the all-female jury during his closing argument to acquit his client, assuring them Zimmerman acted in self-defense when he shot and killed Martin.
"You want to take away somebody's liberty? They've got to prove their case. The burden is on the state," said defense lawyer Mark O'Mara.
Following the verdict, defense lawyer Don West said the "prosecution of George Zimmerman was disgraceful," adding, the jury's verdict "kept this tragedy from becoming a travesty."
However, prosecutor Angela Corey said the state was convinced of the defendant's guilt because "We truly believe the mindset of George Zimmerman and the words that he used and that he was out doing what he was doing fit the bill for second-degree murder."
Now that he is free, attorney O'Mara said Zimmerman will get his gun back, arguing that he needs the weapon "even more" than before because "there are a lot of people out there who actually hate him, though they shouldn't."
Zimmerman is expected to have other court battles, some that he might initiate.
"I think there are going to be a number of civil suits. I would be very surprised if any of those civil suits are filed against George Zimmerman and we welcome them," O'Mara said.
He indicated that Zimmerman may file suits against others, however.
Later Sunday, the four prosecutors in the case told ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman that they believed Martin was actually begging for his life after Zimmerman drew his gun on him but was shot anyway in “cold blood.”
Lead prosecutor de la Rionda referred to Zimmerman as a “lucky man” after the not guilty verdict but called him a coward for not taking the witness stand. Defendants are not required to do so although Zimmerman’s attorneys claimed their client wanted to give his side of the story.
Meanwhile, the prosecutors believe that Zimmerman would have never attempted to follow Martin in the first place if he wasn’t carrying a loaded gun.
Friday, 12 July 2013
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Following his lead offering, "Love Connection," Raheem DeVaughn has issued the second single from his upcoming album, A Place Called Love Land.
With production from Jerry Good and Ryan Tedder, the new song is titled "Ridiculous" and it was written by Ne-Yo, who previously wrote “I Don’t Care” on Raheem’s 2010 album release, The Love & War MasterPeace.
"So call me a fool, call me insane, tell me that loving you the way I do is ridiculous," he sings on the smooth tune.
In addition to the new track, Raheem tweeted a link to his official SoundCloud page where fans can stream five snippets off his first studio effort in three years.
The Grammy-nominated singer's fourth studio album will be released on August 20 through E1 Music.
Thursday, 11 July 2013
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Alicia Keys is one of the many performers announced for the upcoming 2013 Global Citizen Festival, which was created to raise money and awareness about global poverty.
The Grammy-winning singer will join a diverse group including the legendary Stevie Wonder, John Mayer and Kings of Leon.
Global Poverty Project founder Hugh Evans, who’s organizing the festival, tells ABC News Radio, “We've got four incredible headliners that are going to be bringing not just incredible music, but their passion to see an end to extreme poverty.”
He teases that there may be a few surprise appearances by other artists, too.
Evans hopes that some world leaders will participate in the festival, which is also focusing on global education. He says, “Our goal is that world leaders will actually come up on stage and actually make real commitments in support of the Global Partnership for Education, on stage at that festival, so that global citizens can see the cause and effect of their work.”
Taking place on September 28, the free event will be held in New York City's Central Park. While it will cost concert-goers nothing to attend, you are required to get a ticket which can be earned when you get involved online via GlobalCitizen.org -- fans will get tickets by completing online "actions” related to social issues and then be rewarded with passes.
In related news, Alicia is also scheduled to play the Rock in Rio Festival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on September 15.
With the success of their sultry song, "Fire We Make," Maxwell has confirmed a duet project is in the works with his collaborator Alicia Keys.
"We're definitely working on an EP that's sort of Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell," Maxwell tells Billboard. In case you didn't know, Tammi Terrell is best known for her string of duets with Marvin Gaye for Motown in the 1960s.
"We got a thing musically," explains Maxwell. "That's like my little sister. What's funny is Swizz [Beatz] is the champion of all of it… She's someone that I trust. I'm like that, by the way. Most of the people you see working for me are actually with me. And I'm proud to say that I've known them 20 years almost."
"I don’t deviate form my comfort zone. I feel like when God brings people to you it’s good to keep ‘em around," he says.
While the pair are only in the beginning stages of the joint project, Maxwell is putting the finishing touches on the follow-up to 2009's BLACKsummers'night album. Fans can expect the upcoming project, titled Summers, to be released at the end of the summer.
Following the release of his latest album, Doubleback: Evolution of R&B, Joe has landed high on the Billboard 200 chart.
The singer's newest offering sold 31,000 copies in its first week and claimed the number six slot on the chart, according to Billboard.
Joe, who turned 40 on July 5, recently tweeted, "I truly appreciate it & nothing could be a better gift than the response that my new album has been receiving."
This marks Joe's sixth top-10 album, following 2011's The Good, the Bad, the Sexy, which entered at number eight with a solid 33,000 units sold. In addition, the crooner's project debuted at number one on the R&B Albums chart. The disc includes contributions from Fantasia, Fat Joe and Too $hort.
Elsewhere, fellow R&B artist Robin Thicke maintains his grip on the number-one position. His smash single, "Blurred Lines," featuring Pharrell and T.I., remains atop the Digital Songs chart.
Photo Credit: RCA Records
Whitney Houston’s daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, is engaged to her boyfriend, Nick Gordon. She made the announcement Wednesday on her Facebook page, and she acted quickly to deflect the criticism that their relationship has apparently received -- namely, that the two are like family because Whitney looked after Nick for years.
Bobbi Kristina, 23, wrote on Facebook, “I'm tired of hearing people say ‘eww your [sic] engaged to your brother or if Whitney was still alive would we be together or would she approve of this.’ Let me clear up something, we aren't even real brother and sister nor is he my adoptive brother. My mom never adopted him. In fact, mommy was the one who even said that she knew that we were going to start dating.”
Bobbi Kristina added, “A lot of yall [sic] are saying that yall [sic] are only saying this all out of love. Which is bull because if that was so, all you would want is for me to be happy.”
She said that while her relationship has had its “rough patches,” it’s her life and her decision to be engaged to Nick.
Last year, the couple announced on an episode of the Lifetime series The Houstons: On Our Own that they were engaged, but Nick later tweeted that they were not dating or planning to tie the knot.
Wednesday, 10 July 2013
PHOTO Credit: Public Domain
Mariah Carey has provided visual evidence of the dislocated shoulder she suffered over the weekend on the set of her new music video.
On Tuesday, she tweeted a photo of herself in the hospital, wearing a sling. She wrote, “dislocated my shoulder on the remix video with Jeezy, sporting a very fashionable sling for the next couple of weeks!”
Her husband Nick Cannon, who’s directing the clip for the “#Beautiful” remix, told NBC’s Today show earlier in the day, "Not only did she dislocate her shoulder, she actually cracked a rib and...she chipped her shoulder bone." He confirmed that she suffered the injury after she fell from a platform while wearing a gown and high heels.
Mariah’s rep previously said in a statement provided to ABC News that the singer was taken to a New York City hospital Sunday night and had her shoulder “reset” by doctors.
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Robin Thicke is scheduled to release his upcoming album, Blurred Lines, later this month, but the singer says there's no U.S. tour currently in the works.
While fans may be disappointed, Thicke shares with Billboard that the decision was well thought out.
"We're gonna try to just do promotion the rest of the year, and then we're gonna do some European tours and we're not gonna tour here in the States 'til next year," he explains. "There's so many opportunities for promotions and radio stations and people that have never seen me before, so we're really gonna focus on just getting out there, and hopefully by next spring we'll be ready to put on a real U.S. tour."
Robin also shares that his relationship with his wife, Paula Patton, played a role in recording his upcoming project.
"My wife and I would hang out at the end of the night, and I would play her the songs I was working on and we would dance around and be so happy," Thicke tells Billboard. "And then some of my sadder and more depressing songs would come on, and we would always want to go back to the top and keep dancing and having a good time."
Robin feels he crafted "an escape album" adding, "I think I did my best to make my wife and I have a chance to escape every night, and I felt like that made for a great album."
He also credits the producers he worked with, including Pharrell, Timbaland and will.i.am, for "pushing the sonics forward and into the next realm and the next level." He shares, "They can do things I wouldn't even think to do."
Blurred Lines will be available in stores and online on July 30.
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
If you were one of the many glued to the TV every Wednesday night, it should be no surprise that R&B Divas has been a big success for the TV One network.
R&B Divas Atlanta, featuring Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, KeKe Wyatt, Angie Stone and Nicci Gilbert, helped the network to its highest primetime ratings of the year in June, according to a network press release, a 34 percent improvement over last June's ratings.
The second season not only experienced a jump in ratings but also a rise in drama, as the ladies attempted to put together a tour for their lasting fan-base. During the season finale June 19, viewers were left wondering if the cast would even return to the show after tension exploded inside an Atlanta restaurant during KeKe's birthday party.
Despite the conflicts that ensued, there were apologies and laughs shared among the women during the R&B Divas Atlanta Reunion: Part 1 special on June 26.
Viewers can catch R&B Divas Atlanta Reunion: Part 2 when it airs tonight, July 10 at 9 p.m. ET, immediately followed by the season premiere of R&B Divas LA -- which includes Kelly Price, Dawn Robinson formerly of En Vogue, Lil Mo, Michel'le, Chante Moore and Claudette Ortiz of City High.
PHOTO Credit: Cumulus Media
Robin Thicke has been added to the official line-up for Apple's upcoming iTunes Festival later this year.
"Come see me at this years #iTunesFestival on Sept 28th. It's free for UK and all others can stream it live!" Thicke tweeted Monday night.
The "Blurred Lines" singer joins previously confirmed acts including John Legend and Justin Timberlake, with more performers to be announced. The free concert series, taking place London's Roundhouse venue, will include more than 60 performers.
As Thicke mentioned in his tweet, the shows will be streamed live via the official app, on the iTunes Store and via Apple TV. The annual festival traditionally has taken place in July, but this year runs from September 1 to September 30.
Are you ready to reconnect with celebrities from the early '90s?
Later this month, viewers will be able to tune in to a new series premiering on VH1 called Miss U Much, which will profile three of its favorite celebrities each week to see what they’ve been up to.
Hosted by comedian Catherine Reitman, the series will focus on famous faces like rapper Coolio, R&B legend Brian McKnight, and rapper-turned-actor Romeo Miller, as well as noted actors including Robin Thicke’s dad, Alan Thicke from Growing Pains, Family Matters star Darius McCrary, Lark Voorhies from Saved By the Bell, and much more.
Miss U Much, an 8-episode, half-hour series, will premiere Friday, July 19 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
