Rihanna is absolutely unstopable!

Rihanna is triumphing wildly...

Britney Spears and Rihanna triumphed at the 2008 NRJ Music Awards on Saturday (26.01.08).

Britney, who has had a tumultuous time since divorcing Kevin Federline and losing custody of her two sons, saw off stiff competition from Rihanna and Amy Winehouse to receive the International Album of the Year prize for her comeback LP 'Blackout'.

Although Rihanna lost out on the album award, her popular dance track 'Don't Stop the Music' was named International Song of the Year at France's most famous music awards ceremony.

The stunning 19-year-old singer showed off her new short hairstyle as she performed her award-winning song at France's Palais des Festivals de Cannes. 'SexyBack' singer Justin Timberlake won International Male Artist of the Year, while Canadian star Avril Lavigne was crowned International Female Artist of the Year.

Amy Winehouse, who was nominated for International Revelation of the Year and International Album of the Year, was due to perform at the star-studded ceremony but was forced to pull out after entering rehab for drug addiction last week.

Lebanese-born 'Grace Kelly' singer Mika, who wore a shocking pink jacket to the ceremony, picked up the International Revelation of the Year. Michael Jackson, Celine Dion and Kylie Minogue all received the NRJ Award of Honour for their contribution to music. Nominees for the NRJ Awards are chosen by French radio station NRJ.

Listeners can then vote online for their favourites. The public votes counts for 75 per cent of the final outcome, while a panel made up of NRJ staff and French TV network TF1 has a 25 per cent influence on the winners.

2008 NRJ Music Awards full list of winners:

Francophone Revelation of the Year - Christophe Willem International Revelation of the Year - Mika
Francophone Female Artist of the Year - Jenifer
International Female Artist of the Year - Avril Lavigne Francophone Male Artist of the Year - Christophe Mae International Male Artist of the Year - Justin Timberlake Francophone Group/Duo of the Year - Superbus
International Group/Duo of the Year - Tokio Hotel
International Song of the Year - Rihanna, 'Don't Stop The Music' Francophone Album of the Year - Christophe Willem, 'Inventaire' International Album of the Year - Britney Spears, 'Blackout' Francophone Song of the Year - Christophe Mae, 'On s'attache' Music Video of the Year - Fatal Bazooka, 'Parle a ma main' NRJ Award of Honor - Celine Dion, Michael Jackson and Kylie Minogue

Britney and the possibility of contacting his childs again...

It seem the mom can contact his sons again...

Britney Spears has been told she can speak to her children on the telephone.

The 'Toxic' singer - who hasn't seen her two sons Sean Preston, two, and 16-month-old Jayden James for more than three weeks after she refused to return them to ex-husband Kevin Federline - is forbidden from visiting her children indefinitely, meaning her only access to them is via phone calls.

Court documents released yesterday (28.01.08) revealed: "Spears is to have telephonic contact with the minor children. All prior orders remain in full force and effect."

Meanwhile, Britney's manager and "very good friend" Sam Lufti has confirmed the 26-year-old singer has seen a psychiatrist for her "mental issues".

Following a conversation with Lufti, 'The View' host Barbara Walters said: "Britney is suffering from what Lufti describes as mental issues which are treatable.

He said that she has been to a psychiatrist and that she, I assume, is starting some kind of treatment. "She has been having mood swings. She's been having trouble sleeping, and also she is in touch with her mother - because we had heard she wasn't - and her mother has been very supportive of whatever Britney is going to do."

The 'Piece of Me' singer is believed to be bipolar and reportedly has multiple personality disorder. Her legal team are hoping her visitation rights will be reinstated if she undergoes psychiatric treatment.

Britney and Lufti are said to have rowed over her alleged mental problems yesterday (28.01.08). He reportedly told her she must see a psychiatrist and talk to her parents. He also told her to stop seeing Adnan Ghalib, her photographer boyfriend. A source said: "Britney had a huge blow out with Sam at about 6pm as they were driving back to her house. She stormed out of his car in tears just in front of the gate and sat on the side of the road sobbing her heart out."

Britney's parents - who were in Los Angeles visiting Britney's sons Sean Preston and Jayden James last night - arrived at her house at 9.07pm and waited outside the gates in their car. Britney refused to speak to them and left after Adnan collected her.

Lenny Kravitz and paul are the perfect future team!

Lenny Kravitz wants to work with the master...

Lenny Kravitz wants to duet with Sir Paul McCartney.

The 'American Woman' singer - who owns a mixing desk from London's Abbey Road Studios, famously used by The Beatles - wants the legendary musician to fly out to his Miami home to record a song with him.

Lenny said: "All the Beatles' albums were recorded on that mixing desk and I got it when my first album 'Let Love Rule' came out in 1990, as I came into a bit of money.

I'd seen a documentary in England made about it by one of the sound engineers and I knew I had to have it. "It's an incredible piece of gear. At the time I blew all of my money on it but if you offered me £5 million for it today I wouldn't take it.

"When you see pictures of John Lennon sitting at the desk it's just priceless. I'd love to bring Paul McCartney back to my place and make a record with him. How cool would that be?" Kravitz's new album 'It's Time For A Love Revolution' is released next month.

Blur and Oasis will rock on 2008!

Blur and Oasis are ready to work together and make something great!

Oasis and Blur are set to make a special cheese together.

The British bands - who were fierce pop rivals in the 90s - are huge fans of the savoury snack and Blur bassist Alex James wants them to team up to create their own brand.

James, who is now a dairy farmer and cheese maker, has invited his band's lead singer Damon Albarn and Oasis stars Noel and Liam Gallagher to his Cotswolds cheese factory so they can start working on a special cheese for next month's BRIT Awards.

A source said: "Damon and Alex have always been enthusiastic about cheese - it was the glue that held Blur together for so long. "But it wasn't until recently that Alex discovered Liam and Noel shared their obsession.

So he had the masterplan of creating something constructive through the medium of cheese, which would mark their maturity." James believes the prestigious music event, to be held at London's Earl's Court, would be the perfect place to showcase the cheese and is hoping it will be offered as a dessert alternative during the dinner.

James is thoroughly enjoying his life as a farmer, even though it is a far cry from his days as a glamorous pop star. He said: "From hard drugs to soft cheese! That's me. From boozy, vegetarian vampire of the Groucho Club in London to rural sober family man. "It's amazing, the friends you can make, just through cheese. People get very emotional about it."

kaiser Chiefs are back on track!

Kaiser Chiefs latest updates...

Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson is "excited" to be up against Take That and Girls Aloud at the BRIT Awards.

The 30-year-old rocker is proud to be facing such "massive" pop stars in the British Group category at the London ceremony on February 20, and insists he would rather lose out to a "bigger band" than any of their indie rivals.

He said: "I'm surprised to be in the same category as Take That and Girls Aloud but it's exciting. You think of them as being massive bands and I think it's healthy to think of people as bigger than you. "You can't really compete with Girls Aloud. But if The Editors or The Arctic Monkeys win, then I'd be a bit angry."

The Kaiser Chiefs have already tasted BRITs glory with the success of their debut album 'Employment' helping them win awards for Best British Group, Best British Rock Act and Best British Live Act in 2006. However, Ricky insists success would be sweeter this time around.

He told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "It is better being nominated for your second album than five times for your first. It shows we're still relevant and vital. You forget the BRITs are like the Oscars. Being nominated for them is a better feeling than you think."

The Kaiser Chiefs - which also includes drummer Nick Hodgson, guitarist Andrew White, bassist Simon Rix and keyboard player Nick Baines - have also been nominated for Best British Live Act and Best British Single for 'Ruby', which they intend to perform at the ceremony at London's Earl's Court.

Trance music and the 2008 preview

It seems that trance music is gaining influence....

Utrecht, Saturday February 23rd – We knew that they would go fast, but not this fast! Tickets for the Trance Energy anniversary event are already completely sold out, more than five weeks in advance of the big night!

The hard core of the international dance community is set to converge on Utrecht from every continent: never before has Trance Energy attracted so much interest from abroad. No fewer than 30,000 partygoers are going to be part of this extra-special fifteenth event, under the musical guidance of the crème de la crème of the world’s DJs. They include Tiësto, Ferry Corsten and Marco V on the Main stage, with Marcel Woods, Alex M.O.R.P.H. and Ronald van Gelderen topping the bill on the High Contrast stage. Jean is one of the feature acts on the Club stage, while the Future stage will be showcasing up-and-coming young talents like Sean Tyas and Airbase.

Mdonna is very well covered!

Madonna is being covered, it seems...

Following the critical success of 2007’s A Brighter Beat and an improbable bid for the Christmas number one slot with We’re All Going To Die, Malcolm Middleton is back to business with a new, stripped-back-record. Sleight of Heart includes Malcolm’s version of Madonna’s Stay, alongside 2 other covers and 6 original new songs.

Comprising tracks written during the Brighter Beat sessions and a handful of cover versions, Sleight Of Heart bookends what Middleton describes as his 'boo-hoo/way-hey! period', using up all the leftovers and tying up the loose ends. 'I'd like to do something different next so this kind of forces my hand. For once I've nothing prepared or ready to fall back on,' he says.

Initially conceived as an acoustic LP – and largely remaining so – the album was recorded at Chemikal Underground Studios in Glasgow. Malcolm’s recording band (featuring Mogwai’s Barry Burns on piano, ex-Delgadoes man Paul Savage on drums, touring bassist Stevie Jones and Jenny Reeve on backing vocals) joined in when he 'got carried away'.

'I suppose this album is a reaction to the production of A Brighter Beat, which I love, but I felt it was time for something quieter,' says Middleton. 'My songs are usually written on a guitar so this way they are closer to the original form.'

There’s plenty to cherish in the nine new tracks here. Opener A Week Off has the wonderful line 'I’ll write a good song just give me more time, it’s easy hating yourself it’s hard making it rhyme,' and is surely the only tune to name check Fleetwood Mac released this year. Elsewhere, Love Comes In Waves is what Middleton sarcastically describes as 'over-blown Glasgow indie-pop', Total Belief finds Malcolm contemplating his 'unworthiness' – a common strand in his solo work – and Blue Plastic Bags is a brilliantly observed song about British drinking culture.

'Surely everyone understands the longing / despair / contentment / self-contempt / confusion in this song,' says Malcolm. 'As a nation we're all drinking too much. Not the binge drinking of the '90s but the sneaky innocent couple every night. If the fridge is empty at 9:30pm, you start sweating and run out to buy some for 'just in case’.'

The covers on the album are fairly unpredictable. Here, a tortured version of Madonna’s Stay rubs shoulders with a lively take on King Creosote’s Marguerita Red and Jackson C. Frank’s Just Like Anything. Stay is an old favourite of Middleton’s, while Just Like Anything is beloved by his girlfriend, 'So I thought I’d ruin it for her,' he says.

It all amounts to a captivating record from a man who’s fast becoming one of the UK’s most cherished – and prolific – artists. While you enjoy this one, Malcolm’s already beavering away on his next full-length release, with mixed results so far.

Lily Allen and her show...

These are the latest news from Lily Allen...

Lily Allen has shot the pilot episode of her forthcoming chat show, with Alex James set to be amongst the guests.

As previously reported, the UK pop songbird will make her TV presenting debut in the coming months on the as-yet-untitled programme.

Scheduled for broadcast on BBC 3, the Blur star and comedian Alan Davies both appear in the pilot.

The opening edition was filmed earlier this week and is currently being worked on by the production team.

Lily's show is expected to centre on the emergence of social networking groups, with interactive elements for the audience.

Britney and a new baby....

Britney wants another baby as it seems...

Britney Spears is desperate to have another baby, says her paparazzo ex-boyfriend.

Photographer Adnan Ghalib - in his first interview about his relationship with the 'Gimme More' singer - denied pictures of the pair buying a pregnancy test were staged.

He said: "Britney has a very maternal instinct. She was feeling a lot of things she said she felt when she was pregnant. I think she was hoping she was pregnant with my child."

Adnan also quashed rumours Britney has a restraining order against him, adding their relationship is "far from over".

He added to US TV show 'Entertainment Tonight' last night (22.01.08): "I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to marry Britney." On the same evening as the interview was broadcast, Britney and Adnan went out together for the first time in a week, but their evening came to an abrupt halt when Adnan crashed Britney's car into a motorcyclist.

While the motorcyclist was unhurt, Britney's white Mercedes SL had a severe dent on the left hand side. The 35-year-old British photographer also recalled the first time he met Britney - on December 28 2007, when he was chasing her car in Hollywood to get a photo.

He said: "To be honest with you, sometimes in life we prepare ourselves for things that may happen, but I was definitely, definitely not prepared in any way shape or form for that.

"There was an aggressive chase and at a stoplight in Hollywood she got out of her car and got into mine, and I think that's what made the difference."

Despite insisting he was not paid for the exclusive chat, a TV producer disagreed, adding: "Adnan wasn't giving up that interview for free."

Meanwhile, Adnan's wife of four years, Azlynn, has had enough of her husband's intimate relationship with Britney, and has filed for divorce from the snapper, citing "irreconcilable differences".

Spice girls profit big time!

These are the latest official values...

According to reports, The Spice Girls each pocketed approximately £10 million from their recent 17 date residency at the O2 Arena in London. Almost half a million tickets were sold for the shows, and added to the merchandising and sponsorship, it’s estimated the band made a £50 million profit.

Despite previous reports from GerI Halliwell that the tour wasn’t motivated by money, who wouldn’t want, wouldn’t really really want, to earn that kind of dough for a spot of singing and dancing?

Christina Aguilera's son is ready to go!

Her son is ready to go, as it seems...

Christina Aguilera's son Max was circumcised in a ritual Hebrew ceremony at their Beverly Hills home yesterday (20.01.08).

Christina and her husband Jordan Bratman, who are both practicing Jews, invited a small group of friends and family to their eight-day-old son's Bris, the traditional Jewish baby naming and circumcision ceremony.

The Bris is traditionally held on the eighth day of a baby's life and Max Liron Bratman was born on January 12, returning home with his mother from Los Angeles' Cedars-Sinai Medical Center a few days later.

The ceremony formalised his middle name Liron, which means "my song" or "my joy" in Hebrew.

A source close to the singer said: "Christina wanted to give Max a partly Jewish name. When she came across Liron she couldn't believe her luck because as well as liking the sound of it, it was a direct reference to her own career."

Christina was said to be feeling "sore" after giving birth via Caesarean section, but the 27-year-old singer is already using her musical talents to bond with Max.

A source said: "Her voice is fine. She is already singing to Max."

Paul McCartney is willing to "say something"...

As it seems, Paul has something to say....

Sir Paul McCartney is considering an out-of-court divorce settlement to prevent Heather Mills talking about their marriage.

The Beatles legend is reportedly keen to avoid a High Court battle next month after discovering Heather plans to represent herself in the settlement.

Paul - worth an estimated £800 million - is said to be concerned the former model will use the opportunity to discuss intimate details about their marriage and fears their four-year-old daughter Beatrice could be affected by the revelations.

The musician's legal team is believed to have contacted Heather and told her: "Paul is ready to talk."

A source said: "Paul and Heather have spoken three or four times in recent days over the phone. It seems that the mood has definitely changed and they are both now ready to resolve things sensibly."

Heather, who is representing herself after splitting from top legal firm Mishcon de Reya, is reportedly planning to build her case on the idea that splitting from Paul has ruined her chance of being happy and successful.

The source added to Britain's Daily Mail newspaper: "She is going to say that before they met people liked her and admired her, she was successful, had her own career and income. Heather is claiming that when they got together, he stopped her from having a career.

"She will say that now they have split, she is a hate figure and unemployable so Paul should compensate financially for the rest of her life."

The 40-year-old vegan is also preparing to argue she has revived Paul's music career.

The source added: "When they first met he was ruined by the death of Linda - his music wasn't going anywhere. She will say he got his career back on track."

Documents leaked last year alleged Paul was physically and verbally abusive toward Heather during their four-year marriage.

A source said: "She wants to come across less money-grabbing and barmy and more the wronged wife and mother."

Representatives for Heather and Paul would not comment on reports the
musician is considering an out of court settlement.

Sex Pistols and their new album is just ahead

As it seems, Sex Pistols are on the attack again...


The Sex Pistols might have a new album this year. It has been 30 years since the one and only album 'Never Mind The Bollocks, Here's The Sex Pistols' but Johnny Rotten, Glen Matlock, Steve Jones and Paul Cook are getting ready to hit the studio.

Last year, the band re-recorded 'Anarchy In The UK' for Guitar Hero III. A new version of 'Pretty Vacant' was done at the same time but remains unreleased.

The line-up then went on to play eight live shows, seven in the UK and one in the USA.

Later this year, the Pistols will reform for a fully-fledged tour of Festivals. The new material is to modernize the setlist.

'Never Mind The Bollocks, Here's The Sex Pistols' was their one and only studio album. It was released in October, 1977. Johnny Rotten left the group in January 1978. It was truly a short story.

The first reunion happened in 1996. The Sex Pistols toured the world for the Filthy Lucre Tour,

In 2002, they got back together for a show to mark The Queen's Golden Jubilee. North America was treated to 'The Piss Off' tour in 2005, and next came last year's shows.

Blur and OASIS head-to-head in just a month!

Fans are going crazy as Oasis and Blur will be head-to-head very soon...


Oasis and Blur look set to go head-to-head "The Weakest Link", a decade after the demise of Britpop.

The pair of rival indie bands have apparently been approached about performing on BBC game show.

According to tabloid reports, the Gallagher brothers have been invited, alongside Damon Albarn and Alex James.

Noel is a self-confessed fan of the Anne Robinson-fronted quiz although talks are thought to be in the early stages.

A BBC source, who says a number of other Britpop stars have been approached, said: "If we can pull this off it would be unbelievable."

Brett Anderson from Suede, Elastica's Justine Frischmann, Pulp's Jarvis Cocker and Manic Street Preachers' singer James Dean Bradfield are also in the frame.

Morrissey fighting racism as a cause

Morrissey fights racism just as we do...


Morrissey and Love Music Hate Racism have teamed-up and are seeking volunteers for his upcoming residency in London.

The former Smiths idol plays six shows at the Roundhouse this month, kicking-off with the first date on Monday.

He has invited the organisation to have a presence at each show, which will feature a stall dedicated to the campaign.

People interested in getting involved should send their contact details to lmhr.london@gmail.com, listing any previous experience.

Love Music Hate Racism host a 30th anniversary Rock Against Racism event in Victoria Park, London on April 27.

Morrissey releases a new single, "That's How People Grow Up", on February 2, followed by his greatest hits a week later.

Pete Doherty wearing girlfriend's gift

Pete Doherty is a very dedicated boyfriend!


Pete Doherty is wearing his girlfriend's bras to protect his 'sore nipples'.

The troubled Babyshambles rocker, who is in training for this year’s Flora London Marathon, complains his T-shirts are chafing his chest and has been borrowing 19-year-old model Portia Freeman's padded underwear to ease the pain.

A source said: "He's doing so well. He's really serious about kicking drugs and this is really testing his will power and giving him a goal.

"All that is putting him off are his amazingly sore nipples, but Portia's underwear is really helping."

Portia - who has reportedly been dating Pete since last December - has also signed up to the punishing 26-mile race in April and the couple even hit the gym together during a recent trip to Paris, where Pete played at the city's Olympia Theatre.

The 28-year-old singer, who entered rehab to tackle his addiction to heroin last year, is so determined to get fit for the marathon his friends say he has become obsessed with reaching his goal.

A source added to Britain’s Daily Star newspaper: "Pete is showing the same devotion to marathon now as he did do to drugs.

"It's a much healthier obsession than heroin."

Earlier this week, it was revealed Portia - who has been described as a "clean-living" girl - fell for Pete after watching him perform in London before going back to his Wiltshire home.

Lupe Fiasco is aboiut to quit music, it seems....

Sad news from the famous rap star...


Rap star Lupe Fiasco has vowed to quit music in a bid to become a successful novelist.

The Food + Liquor hitmaker is convinced he will be able to produce one more album before he will be forced to take up a new profession - and writing a book is top of his list.

Fiasco - real name Wasalu Muhammad Jaco - released his last LP, The Cool, in December and plans on recording one more, which he has provisionally titled LupEND, to conclude his musical career.

He says, "I have one more album in me and then I'm out. I've been doing this music hustle for eights years and have more things I still want to do.

"There are other ways besides putting out an album that allow me to channel my creative energy and I'm writing a book about a window washer. I will have more than enough to keep me busy."

Cheryl Cole wants to have many kids...

Cheryl Cole wants to have kids and she is really looking forward it!


Cheryl Cole is desperate to have children, her Girls Aloud bandmate
Kimberley Walsh has claimed.

Cheryl, who is married to England soccer star Ashley Cole, wants a family but has promised to finish touring before she starts trying.

Kimberley said: "Cheryl will have kids first. She is the softest and has taken on the motherly role since getting married. She would happily have one but she is so committed to what we are doing right now. She would say, 'But we have to do the tour!' "

Kimberley, who has been dating Triple 8 singer Justin Scott since May 2006, also revealed she is looking forward to getting married and having children one day.

She added to Britain's OK! magazine: "Justin and I are really happy.

We're definitely moving in the right direction. He gets on well with all my family so if we do marry, it would be a lovely set-up.

"I'd like to be married a few years and have a honeymoon period before kids take over. We keep having debates because I'm one of four kids so I want four, but he is like, 'No way!' I will have to work on that one!"

Amy and her new tattoo...

Amy is going to get a new tattoo which is just one more in a vast arsenal that she has, right?

Amy Winehouse is getting a new feather tattoo to give her strength.

The 'Rehab’ singer, who has struggled to cope since her husband Blake Fielder-Civil was arrested and held on remand at London’s Pentonville Prison, is set to add the large Native American eagle feather to her sizeable collection of body art.

Amy believes having the symbol etched across her shoulders will help to boost her confidence and keep her safe while Blake is in jail.

A source said: 'Amy already has a Native American feather on her inner arm because it symbolises courage, strength and spirituality but she somehow feels it let her down as she has lost her courage and strength.

'So she has asked a well-known tattooist in Camden Town, north London, to design a much bigger one for her shoulders. The feather is symbolic to Native Americans of prayers rising to the heavens.'

Amy, whose body art already includes a shirt pocket with the word 'Blake’s’ on her chest and several etchings of ladies and hearts on her arms, believes the new tattoo will also help her focus on her career.

The source added: 'It is a desperate attempt to find strength to deal with her situation, which she knows is spinning out of control.'

Blake, who is currently awaiting trial on charges of perverting the course of justice and grievous bodily harm (GBH), has reportedly turned to God and is seeing a prison priest every day.

Doherty to save german club!

It seems that Doherty is going to make it...

German football team has appealed to Pete Doherty to come to their rescue from financial ruin.

KFC Uerdingen want the Babyshambles star to make a guest appearance at their stadium, to raise funds for the ailing club.

Doherty, who spent some of his childhood in the area at an army base in the city of Krefeldas, supports the minor league team alongside his famed love of QPR.

According to Reuters, the former Libertine has said he hopes to visit the Uerdingen ground on his upcoming European tour dates.

Meanwhile, Babyshambles played a surprise, one-off concert in the Wiltshire countryside last night, to just 40 people.

Doherty and co performed a string of hits at The Sun Inn in Marlborough, kicking-off just after closing time, reports the NME.

Fergie pregnant?

Could Fergie be pregnant? Well, it seems so...

Fergie and fiancé Josh Duhamel have sparked pregnancy rumours after being given baby gifts.

Josh, who has been dating the 'London Bridge' singer for three years, was celebrating the 100th episode of his hit US TV show 'Las Vegas' when Mayor Oscar Goodman presented him with a pair of baby's shoes.

A source told the New York Daily News newspaper: "Mayor Goodman gave Josh a pair of baby Crocs sandals for his future baby with fiancée Fergie. Everyone is saying she is pregnant."

During the event, held at Las Vegas' Palms Resort Hotel, Mayor Goodman also handed the key of the city to the cast.

Fergie has previously spoken of her desire to settle down and start a family.

She said: "It is one of my dreams to have babies with Josh. It will be so special when it happens."

The couple announced their engagement last month, and Fergie showed off her impressive diamond ring when she performed in Atlantic City just days later.

She said: "I feel like the luckiest girl in the world. I'm thrilled! I'm not giving any details. I think the fine points are sacred. It's just important to us. It's hard for me to stay quiet though because I have a big mouth!"

The 32-year-old singer recently revealed she is planning to spend more time with her family.

She added: "It's important for me to see more of my family, see more of my sister, my mom and dad."

Prince to release new tribute album!

These are the latest news from prince...

James Brown may have been the hardest-working man in show business, but no one in the history of rock & roll has covered more ground than Prince.

His music has spanned several styles: From his early 80’s material, rooted in R&B, funk, and soul, he has constantly expanded his musical palette throughout his illustrious career, absorbing many other genres including New Wave, pop, rock, blues, jazz, and hip hop.

On this collection a selection of classic cover versions of his biggest hits have been compiled, including 'Purple Rain’, 'Controversy’ 'When Doves Cry’ and 'The Ballad Of Dorothy Parker’ by a host of major artists from soul legend D’Angelo and reggaes latest sensations The Dynamics to dance stars Soulwax, Osunlade & Rob Mello through to and Dubsteps Kode 9.

Tracklisting:

1. D’Angelo – She’s Always In My Hair
2. Stina Nordenstam – Purple Rain
3. Blue States - Alphabet Street
4. Susanna & The Magical Orchestra – Condition Of The Heart
5. Osunlade – Crazy You
6. Hefner – Controversy
7. The Dynamics – Girls & Boys
8. Broadway Project feat. Jeb Loy Nichols - The Ballad Of Dorothy Parker
9. 7 Hurtz with Peaches – Sexy Dancer
10. Soulwax - Starfish & Coffee
11. Rob Mello – Critical
12. LB – The Future
13. Kode 9 & Space Ape – Sine Of The Dub

The pistols and their live concerts...

So, you always wanted to see The pistols perform live? Then read below...


Specialising in the kind of electric music that brought such a shower of praise upon The Rapture and Klaxons, The Pistolas are out to build upon the glories of those that came before with a newfound emphasis on poppy hooks; designed to shake dance floors and move bodies. Relentless touring has seen their fan base grow and grow into a loyal mass of those in the know.

It’s on the live circuit that the band have really shown themselves to be excellent performers. But this inspiring live show, which has included high profile touring support slots with everyone from Bloc Party to Dizzee Rascal, won’t take away from the fact that their electric formula of synth-infused pop and punk-funk translates perfectly onto record.

Bolstered by a juggernaut of excited yelps and stabbing guitars, 'Hey Hey Hey’ makes for one hell of a single. A refreshing blast of angular guitars interwoven with tightly wound drums and throbbing bass lines are guaranteed to set any dance floor alight. And as the band makes their way through a UK tour followed by a stint in Japan, things are looking pretty damn good for the year ahead.

Catch the band live in the following venues:

Feb 4th Newcastle - Uni Basement 2 Newcastle
Feb 5th Glasgow - Barfly Glasgow
Feb 6th Aberdeen – Tunnels Aberdeen
Feb 7th Edinburgh – Cab Voltaire Edinburgh
Feb 9th Hull – Welly Hull
Feb 10th Derby – The Venue Derby
Feb 11th Cambridge – Barfly Cambridge
Feb 12th Hertford – Marquee Hertford
Feb 13th Brighton – Barfly Brighton
Feb 15th London – Barfly London
Feb 16th Newport – Meze Bar Newport, Wales
Feb 17th Bath – Moles Bath

New album by ColdPlay!

Coldplay and their new album:


Coldplay will release their new album, "Prospekt", in May, according to reports.

The band have been working on the follow-up to 2005's "X&Y" across the last 12 months and the record is now said to be complete.

Produced by Brian Eno, unconfirmed claims of the title and release date have now begun to emerge across online media.

Some of the songs expected to feature on "Prospekt", which apparently has a running time of 43 minutes, are as follows:

Tracklist

"Famous Old Painters"
"Glass Of Water"
"Lost!"
"Cemeteries of London"
"Violet Hill"
"Poppy Fields"
"42"
"Yes!"
"Leftrightleftright"
"Rainy Day"
"Prospeckt's March"

"Prospekt" is Coldplay's fourth studio album.

Lindsay lohan sued, know the details...

Oh yeah, it also happens to her!


Lindsay Lohan is being sued by the woman she allegedly chased prior to her arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) last July.

Tracie Rice - the mother of the actress' former assistant - claims Lindsay terrorised her in a high-speed car chase in Santa Monica and is taking legal action.

Legal papers claim Rice - who called emergency services during the pursuit - has spent $3,500 on therapy, $510 on medical expenses, $145 on a chiropractor, $150 on medicine and $2,000 in miscellaneous expenses incurred by her trauma.

One of the sugababbes was arrested!

The sugababes are nasty and here you have the proof:

Sugababe Amelle Berrabah was arrested yesterday (10.01.08) after allegedly attacking a woman's car.

The singer - whose boyfriend Freddie Fuller narrowly escaped death after being assaulted with a machete on Christmas Eve (24.12.08) - was taken into custody by police after a feud with her sister Laila's neighbour spiralled out of control.

A source said: "There's been problems between the two families and on Thursday it hit boiling point.

"There was shouting and a girl called police, they got there about 10.45am.

Amelle was shaking as officers carted her off."

The alleged incident took place in Aldershot, Hampshire.

A police spokesperson said: "A 23-year-old woman from London was arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and public order offences. She has been bailed to appear at Aldershot police station on February 21."

Amelle's position in the Sugababes - whose other members are Keisha Buchanan and Heidi Range - is now said to be in jeopardy as the incident is just the latest in a string of controversial events.

Last February, Freddie was accused of raping Amelle's younger sister Samiya although he was later cleared.

On Christmas Eve the couple were on a festive pub crawl when Freddie was attacked with a machete at around 11.30pm outside the Queen Victoria pub in Aldershot.

The tree surgeon almost lost his left arm and leg in what surgeons revealed was one of the worst knife attacks they had ever seen.

Amelle said at the time: "He was left for dead. It was horrific - like a nightmare but worse because it was real."

Robbie Williams is about to quit live performances!

These are sad new for any fan to hear from Robbie:

Robbie Williams claims touring "nearly killed" him.

The 'Angels' singer is considering quitting live performances and has disappointed fans by revealing he has no plans to release a new album this year.

He said: "There might not be a proper album out this year and there definitely won't be a tour any time soon. F**k that, the last one nearly killed me.

"There will be some kind of something this year. I might just put B-sides to the next album out first online. Then put an album out in 2009. Which means you won't be seeing me on stage for a while. Sorry folks."

Robbie - whose last album 'Rudebox' was panned by critics - says part of him wants to carry on being a pop star while the other part is content to turn his back on public life.

He added on his website blog: "I do have to say, the more time I'm spending away from public life, the more I like it. Unfortunately I have a massive competitive urge that wants me to put out three albums a year.

"Which one will win? I'm sure as soon as I get bored I'll be back. But right now there's a soy vanilla latte and mince pie waiting for me in the kitchen."

Last month, it was rumoured Robbie was planning a huge tour in an attempt to wrestle the spotlight back from his former bandmates Take That, who have enjoyed phenomenal success since reforming.

Black francis and the release of the new session

This is a direct message from the doc:

"Cooking Vinyl has agreed to release my latest session (thank you CV!), which I have called SVN FNGRS, on 3rd March 2008. It was written, recorded and mixed in six days, and on the seventh day Mark Lemhouse did artwork. The band for the session was myself, of course, on guitar, vocals and harmonica, Jason Carter on drums, and Violet Clark on bass. The session was produced Jason Carter. There are seven (7) songs clocking in at 20 minutes and so I suppose it qualifies as a mini-LP under the old formats. No one seems to know or care what the current format models are (a very weakened LP on compact disc continues to rule the roost by default), which is WONDERFUL; so let's just call it music and pay whatever price your Google research turns up. If you want it for free you can usually find some tracks for free download on my Myspace page or on my own blackfrancis.net. The production is sparse in terms of the band, which, by the way, seems to be a kind of 'Black Francis' thing that has been developing ever since I went back to the old stage name, but is much more produced in terms of the vocal layering of my own voice, perhaps along the lines of TEENAGER OF THE YEAR. I won't bother you here with what the damn concept is, but let's just say the theme revolves around a lot of NASTY sex, NASTIER death, and beautifully strange birth. It was a coincidence that the whole 'finger' thing turns up again; management asked for a digital b-side for a BLUEFINGER track and what they got was this seven fingered thing which is not related to the HERMAN BROOD concept, although I assure you he would approve of all this nasty business. I have made a video for the song I SENT AWAY (one of the birth songs) and you can see it on youtube and other places, so I guess that qualifies as the first single as released by the impatient artist. I believe the more pragmatic record company is releasing another song (THE SEUS - Charles Normal re-mix) as ITS first single and I'll make an internet vid for that one, too, as soon as I finish recording the digital b-side for THAT (maybe I'll do a self indulgent symphony - note to myself: symphony wiki - written in 10 minutes); DAMN! That espresso this morning was BLACK and STRONG! BLACK & STRONG & LONG! MUDDY BLACK WATER! My brain is exploding..."

Oasis and their brand new album...

As you know, the band who gave us many of the amazing sounds that we keep hearing is about to release a new album...


Oasis have travelled to Los Angeles to mix their new album, according to reports.

At the end of 2007, it was reported that the Gallagher brothers were in Abbey Road Studios in London working on their seventh LP.

It has now been claimed that the follow-up to 2005's "Don't Believe The Truth" has reached the final stages.

Dave Sardy, who mixed the last Oasis album in the Californian city with the band, is again said to be overseeing recordings.

American radio station G Rock revealed the news in a recent broadcast. The album is scheduled for a spring release.

PJ Harvey and the new album!

Lates rumours on PJ Harvey new album...



P J Harvey will enter the studio in late January to begin work on her ninth studio album. The follow up from 2007s White Chalk will mark a return in collaborating with John Parish; their first full album together since Dance Hall at Louse Point in 1996.

The album is set for release later in the year and is rumoured to include Carla Azar from Autolux, and Eric Drew Feldman (Captain Beefheart, Pere Ubu, Frank Black and Charlotte Hatherley).

Beckam is not properly dressed!

This is a private list of some people who dress way too bad:



Victoria Beckham has been named the world's worst dressed woman.

The Spice Girl, who has her own fashion label, topped the annual list by designer Mr. Blackwell, narrowly beating Amy Winehouse and Mary-Kate Olsen.

Of Victoria's dress sense, he said: "Forget Fashion Spice - wearing a skirt would suffice! In one skinny-mini monstrosity after another, pouty Posh can really wreck-em."

Last year's 'winner', Britney Spears was spared from the list due to her recent troubles, which has seen her hospitalised and lose all visitation rights to her two young sons.

Blackwell said: "I felt that it was inappropriate at this time to make comment, when her personal life is in such upheaval. I hope 2008 is a better year for her."

Runner-up Amy - who also had her own troubles in 2007 - was slated by Blackwell for her unique look.

He said: "Exploding beehives above, tacky polka-dots below, she's part 50s carhop horror."

Of third-placed Mary-Kate, he said: "She resembles a tattered toothpick - trapped in a hurricane."

Others included in the unwelcome top 10 are Jessica Simpson, Fergie, Avril Lavigne and Kelly Clarkson.

Mr Blackwell's top 10 worst dressed women of 2007:

1. Victoria Beckham
2. Amy Winehouse
3. Mary Kate Olsen
4. Fergie
5. Kelly Clarkson
6. Eva Green
7. Avril Lavigne
8. Jessica Simpson
9. Lindsay Lohan
10. Alison Arngrim

Britney EX is even more sex made than her!

This is the latest news about Britney and her sex-mad EX-boyfriend:


Britney Spears' new paparazzo lover is "mad and sex-mad", according to his ex-girlfriend.

Nichole Grimes "fell-head-over-heels" for Birmingham photographer Adnan Ghalib - who is now dating the 'Gimme More' singer - only to discover he was cheating on her with her best-friend.

Nichole, 35, said: "Britney should watch out - he's wild. To say he was a ladies' man was an understatement. He couldn't get enough. He's mad and sex-mad.

"When we met I thought he was this lovely young Asian boy from a strict family. I was head-over-heels in love. Then I discovered he'd been secretly hitting on my friend behind my back.

"Some people may wonder what this guy from a strict Muslim family is doing with a party animal like Britney. But I reckon he's wilder than her."

Nichole - who met Adnan, 35, when they both attended Birmingham's Sheldon Heath Community School - also believes it has been Adnan's "life-long dream" to date a superstar.

Nichole added to the Daily Star newspaper: "He was a real charmer. He knew what he wanted and he knew how to get it.
"He's such an attention-seeker that to date one of the world's most famous women must have been his life-long dream."
Meanwhile, Britney, 26, and Adnan boarded a private jet to New York together yesterday afternoon (09.01.08).

They left Van Nuys Airport at 4pm on a flight bound for New Jersey's
Teterboro Airport.

The singer has lost her visitation rights to sons Sean Preston, two, and 15-month-old Jayden James, after she was hospitalised for a psychiatric evaluation last week following a police stand-off at her home.

EMINEM and a sad new about his health...

Eminem was rushed into hospital in Detroit over the Christmas break and was treated for a 'serious heart condition' and 'severe pneumonia', a report claims.

The controversial rapper's weight is believed to have ballooned to 200lbs (14 and a half stones) in recent months, which has not helped his condition.

TMZ claims that Em – real name Marshall Mathers – has since been discharged from hospital and is now at home recuperating.

Let's wish that he recovers fast and well!


Best regards

Sex pistols are not dead yet!

This is their latest official news

The lives and careers of the Sex Pistols look set to be turned into a pantomime, according to reports.

Julien Temple, who put together the infamous "The Great Rock & Roll Swindle" film about the punk legends, is now considering a new project.

The acclaimed director says he hopes John Lydon will appear in the production, which would be an adaptation of "Dick Whittington".

Temple says the idea of a stage version of The Pistols was cemented in his mind after their recent reunion gigs in London and LA.

He explained: "I don't know whether we'd get (former Sex Pistols manager) Malcolm (McClaren) to play 'The Big Bad Witch' or whatever, but it's a funny idea anyway."

Speaking about last year's comeback shows, Temple told the BBC: "They make a pantomime - a psycho-panto - out of the event".

Production on a DVD documentary about The Pistols's five-night residency at the Brixton Academy in London is now also said to be complete.

Amy is a dedicaced person with her dad

Isn't this girl a sweaty one? Singing to her dad with so much love...What an example!

Amy Winehouse has been singing with her dad to improve her self-confidence.

The troubled singer - whose husband Blake Fielder-Civil is currently in prison on charges of grievous bodily harm (GBH) and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice - performed on several occasions with 57-year-old Mitch at parties at her London home in the run-up to Christmas.

Mitch is now hoping it will give Amy the boost she needs to perform at next month's Grammys, after being nominated for six awards.

A source said: "Amy had her fair share of troubles in 2007, and she's still dealing with Blake being in prison. But her little parties at home have given her quite a boost.

"She often has friends round for drinks and inevitably most of the time she ends up singing. One night Mitch joined in and Amy loved it. They had a great giggle and it really made her feel good about herself so Mitch wants to repeat the experience as often as possible."

Amy recently returned from a New Year holiday in Mustique and her family are desperate for her to put her troubles behind her and focus on her career.

The source added to Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "Amy is settling back into London life after her trip to Mustique but Mitch hopes she can keep in high spirits.

"With the right preparation she should be able to light up the forthcoming award ceremonies with her stunning voice and remind people what she does best."

The prestigious Grammys take place on February 10.

Eels tour dates and book's new details

This new is from today!

On 17 January 2008 the book "THINGS THE GRANDCHILDREN SHOULD KNOW" is released in the UK.

That evening the author, Eels leader Mark Oliver Everett, will make a special appearance performing at St. James Church in Piccadilly, London.

Each attendee will receive a copy of the book and the first 200 people in line will get wristbands allowing them to have their book signed by the author.

One week later, on 21 January 2008, Eels are set to celebrate their 10-year anniversary with the release of their first 'best of' AND 'rarities' collections - MEET THE EELS: ESSENTIAL EELS VOL. 1, 1996-2006 and EELS USELESS TRINKETS: B-SIDES, SOUNDTRACKS, RARITIES AND UNRELEASED 1996-2006.

So as you see, you can watch your band in a very near future =D

Underworld and their new single in January!

Fresh from their success in 2007, Underworld are set to release the second single from their latest album.


Beautiful Burnout is set for release on 14th January accompanied by a new video. The band are also playing The Roundhouse, London, on 28th and 29th February.

Another great new for us...

Robyn will be recording with Britney

Swedish pop sensation Robyn has lent her singing skills to troubled star Britney Spears - by performing backing vocals on her new single.

The With Every Heartbeat star vehemently denied she was writing for Spears in August this year, but admitted the singer had recorded some tunes she had already written, including Piece Of Me.

She said, "It is not true that I will be writing for Britney. She has recorded some of my songs but they won't be released."

This is good news ah? =D

Avril and her tours

As a result of her great success with the latest albums, Avril announced the following:



Following the enormous success of her third studio album and second consecutive US #1 debut, Best Damn Thing, Avril Lavigne has announced plans for her 2008 "Best Damn Tour" to be extended to include a full European leg. Produced by Live Nation, the tour will begin on 26th May in Glasgow, UK. Last month Lavigne announced a 32-date North American tour and today has revealed details of her plans for Europe.

"I can't wait to get back out on the road!" says Lavigne, "I have the most fun when I am performing for the fans. I think that energy comes through in my live show."

Best Damn Thing, released in April 2007, is already certified platinum in the UK and throughout Europe and has sold over 4.5 million copies worldwide. Produced by Butch Walker (The Donnas, American Hi-Fi, Lavigne's second album Under My Skin), Dr. Luke (Pink, Lady Sovereign), Rob Cavallo (Green Day, My Chemical Romance) and her husband Deryck Whibley, Best Damn Thing was made with fun in mind. This is evident from the first single, "Girlfriend," reaching #1 around the world. Fans can expect to see the high-spirited energy of the record come to life through Lavigne's stage show, which will feature dancers and a live band.

Having sold close to 30 million albums worldwide, Avril Lavigne is quickly paving her own path to rock 'n' roll royalty. She burst onto the music scene in 2002 with the critically acclaimed Let Go, which featured the smash singles "Sk8r Boi" and "Complicated." Let Go earned Lavigne eight Grammy nominations and has sold more than 16 million copies worldwide. Her 2004 sophomore effort, Under My Skin, debuted at #1 around the world, as did her much anticipated third album, Best Damn Thing. Lavigne is also making a name for herself in the acting world, with a recent role in the Richard Linklater-directed Fast Food Nation and voice work in the animated Over the Hedge. For more information visit www.avrillavigne.com.

Paul McCartney owns it all!

This has been released just today:



The UK's recorded music association, the BPI, today unveiled the winner of the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Music Award. Paul McCartney, the most successful musician and composer of all time will be recognised with the coveted trophy, a gift from the Council of the BPI, at The BRIT Awards with MasterCard 2008 on Wednesday 20 February.

In an extra special night, Paul McCartney will take to the stage to be honoured with the ultimate BRITs accolade and also perform some of his greatest hits in front of the audiences at Earls Court and at home as millions tune in to watch the show broadcast live on ITV1.

Ged Doherty, Chairman of The BRITs Committee said: "This is a historic moment for the BRITs. Sir Paul McCartney is one of the greatest songwriters of all time and a member of Britain's biggest ever group. It is a special honour for me to be able to confirm such an influential and important artist to accept the Outstanding Contribution Award and perform at this year's BRITs."

BPI chief executive Geoff Taylor added: "Over a career spanning five decades and more than 100 million albums, very few contemporary artists have had as significant an impact on British music and culture as Sir Paul. Few artists can truly be described as legends, and even fewer are revered by the public like Sir Paul. He richly deserves the accolade of legend yet - as anyone fortunate enough to see him on stage will testify - he remains one of today's most compelling performers. BRITs 2008 is shaping up to be a classic."

One of the founding members of The Beatles, Paul McCartney is one of the UK's most revered recording artists.

Paul McCartney and John Lennon formed one of the most influential and successful song-writing partnerships in the history of rock and roll. After leaving The Beatles, McCartney went on to launch a triumphant solo career and formed the band Wings with his wife Linda. Paul McCartney's love of music spans many genres from Rock and Roll right through to Classical with Ecce Cor Meum [Behold My Heart] being voted Classical Album of the Year at The Classical BRIT Awards in 2007.