Source: http://www.mtv.com/photos/?fid=1657832
Halle Berry Angela Bettis Leslie Bibb Jessica Biel Rachel Bilson
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
'Hall Pass' Leads Friday Box Office
Comedy bags $4.6 million; Nic Cage's 'Drive Angry' flops in ninth place.
By Shawn Adler
Jason Sudeikis and Owen Wilson in "Hall Pass"
Photo: Warner Bros.
Oscar weekend is typically a time for movie insiders to recognize high-brow, dramatic fare. But no matter who takes home the statues Sunday night, it's the raunchy, hilarious team behind flicks like "There's Something About Mary" and "Kingpin" who are taking home the gold.
"Hall Pass," starring Owen Wilson and Jason Sudeikis, topped all comers at the Friday-night box office with an estimated $4.6 million from 2,950 screens. If form holds, it will be the first # 1 opening for writing/directing duo Peter and Bobby Farrelly since 2000's "Me, Myself and Irene."
Not far behind in second place, Liam Neeson's "Unknown" managed to punch up nearly $3.9 million from 3,043 screens in its second week of release. Two years after dominating the February box office with "Taken," the secretly badass star should push "Unknown" past $40 million total by the end of the weekend.
While America's love affair with Neeson waxes, however, its relationship with Nicolas Cage may have waned irrevocably. New release "Drive Angry," featuring the Oscar winner turned action star's latest wackadoo performance, was good enough for only $1.6 million and ninth place. The weak opening is the latest in a string of recent flops for Cage, including "Season of the Witch" and "The Sorcerer's Apprentice."
In third place, "Just Go With It" starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston pulled in $3.3 million. Rounding out the top five, "Gnomeo and Juliet" and "I Am Number Four" earned $3.16 million and $3.14 million, respectively.
With a new "Director's Fan Cut", out this weekend only, Justin Bieber managed to hold strong at sixth place, as his 3-D concert flick "Never Say Never" scored $2.7 million. The flick's cumulative gross should breeze past $60 million this weekend.
Among Oscar hopefuls, "The King's Speech" (eighth place) continued its impressive run. The presumptive favorite at the Academy Awards brought its total to $108 million with a $1.9 million Friday haul.
Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658790/hall-pass-leads-friday-box-office.jhtml
Patricia Arquette Rosanna Arquette Bea Arthur Candice Azzara Lauren Bacall
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Justin Bieber Is 'Really Growing Up,' Says 'Never Say Never' Director
Jon M. Chu says teen star is 'learning how to interact with people.'
By Eric Ditzian
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
MTV News first interviewed Justin Bieber in September of 2009, when the pint-size pop singer was on the cusp of breaking beyond his core audience into mainstream pop stardom. Then 15 years old and relatively new to the national media spotlight, Bieber wasn't nervous so much as generally tentative, a bit clipped and repetitive in his answers.
When Bieber walked into the MTV Newsroom earlier this month to promote the difference in his on-camera demeanor couldn't have been more different: He projected a breezy confidence, at times humorous or eye-on-the-prize focused, and was engaging throughout.
That Bieber has truly matured — not just as an artist, but as a person — isn't apparent only to those who occasionally cross his path. Jon M. Chu, who directed and began working with the singer in August, has noticed the change as well.
"With the movie and going to the Grammys and being respected on so many different levels beyond just his own fanbase, he's really growing up and learning how to interact with people," Chu said.
The director said he noted a great difference in the young star's disposition following the completion of his seven-month, 86-show tour.
"He's just had time to rest," said Chu, who started shooting "Never Say Never" as Bieber was in the midst of that nonstop North American tour. At first, Bieber was standoffish. Only gradually did the two establish a close creative partnership.
"Half of it was just me gaining trust with him because I was in his face with a camera," Chu said. "It was very much like 'Almost Famous,' where I was just on the bus and he didn't really want me there. Once we got past that, we were fine."
Have you noticed a change in Justin Bieber? Tell us below!
Check out everything we've got on "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and Justin Bieber updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658527/justin-bieber-never-say-never.jhtml
Trini Alvarado Lauren Ambrose Mädchen Amick Gillian Anderson Pamela Anderson
Friday, February 25, 2011
First Look: ?Toy Story: Hawaiian Vacation?
Entertainment Weekly has the exclusive first look at the new Toy Story short film titled Hawaiian Vacation inside this week’s issue of their magazine. According to the film blog The Playlist, Toy Story: Hawaiian Vacation will be shown as the short film in front of this Summer’s animated sequel film Cars 2. Check out what [...]
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/pinkisthenewblog/~3/xm_AGirGhTo/
Gillian Anderson Pamela Anderson Julie Andrews Angélica María Maya Angelou
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Ke$ha - Tik Tok
- Artist: Ke$ha
- Label: RCA
- Director: Syndrome
- Album: Animal [Clean]
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=3213641&vid=445445
Pamela Anderson Julie Andrews Angélica María Maya Angelou Jennifer Aniston
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Grammys Give Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber Immediate iTunes Bump
Cee Lo, Esperanza Spalding, Lady Antebellum and more also see post-show sales increases.
By Gil Kaufman
Lady Gaga performs at the Grammys on Sunday
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
It didn't take long for the big winners at Sunday night's Grammy Awards to get an iTunes bump. Less than 24 hours after the show, the iTunes singles and albums charts were flooded with songs that were either performed on the show or which won awards during the program.
At press time on Tuesday morning (February 15), the iTunes singles tally was topped, not surprisingly, by Lady Gaga's "Born This Way," which got its televised debut during the show, followed by Dr. Dre's "I Need a Doctor," which Eminem and Dre (making his first televised performance in nearly a decade) also performed on the show.
Justin Bieber's "Never Say Never" was at #3, followed by Cee Lo Green's "F--- You," which was one of the most colorful and bizarre live spots in the three-and-a-half-hour show thanks to his outer-space Henson Puppet band and a cameo from a sultry Gwyneth Paltrow.
Mumford & Sons also got some iTunes love after playing on the show with folk legend Bob Dylan, which helped their song "The Cave" hit #5, followed by the night's big Grammy victors, Lady Antebellum, and their Song and Record of the Year winner, "Need You Now."
Although she didn't perform "Firework" on the Grammys, Katy Perry's anthem hung in at #7, ahead of Rihanna, who had two shots onstage at the Grammys. Her "S&M," whose video is the subject of legal action, came in at #8, with Bruno Mars' "Grenade" and non-Grammy performer Avril Lavigne's "What the Hell" rounding out the top 10.
Just outside the top 10, there were plenty more Grammy bumps to be found: Cee Lo's censored "Forget You" (#11), Mumford & Sons' "Little Lion Man" (#12), Muse's "Uprising" (#20), Rihanna and Drake's "What's My Name?" (#21), Eminem's "Love the Way You Lie" (#24) and Florence and the Machine's "Dog Days Are Over" (#29).
The iTunes album chart told a similar story, with Mumford's Sigh No More holding on to the #1 slot, followed by Bieber's Never Say Never remixes disc, Album of the Year winner the Arcade Fire's The Suburbs was back in play at #3, proceeded by Grammy performers the Avett Brothers' I and Love and You at #4, with Best New Artist Esperanza Spalding's Chamber Music Society climbing to #6.
Other Grammy album action included: Lady Antebellum's Need You Now (#7), Bieber's My World 2.0 (#8), Eminem's Recovery (#9), Rihanna's Loud (#10), Florence and the Machine's Lungs (#11), Bieber's My Worlds Acoustic (#12), the 2011 Grammy Nominees compilation (#14), as well as albums by the Black Keys (#17), Muse (#19), Bruno Mars (#21) and Spalding's 2009 Esperanza release (#28).
Did you do any post-Grammy downloading? Tell us what you're listening to in the comments!
For more Grammy Awards analysis, interviews, fashion and more, stick with MTV News!
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658028/grammy-lady-gaga-justin-bieber-itunes.jhtml
Karen Allen Krista Allen Laura Allen Trini Alvarado Lauren Ambrose
Michael Jackson Wrongful Death Suit Vs. AEG Can Proceed, Judge Rules
Katherine Jackson and family are pursuing a claim against concert promoter.
By Gil Kaufman
Michael Jackson
When he was alive, Michael Jackson was forever embroiled in a series of complex and expensive-sounding lawsuits. But even in death, the late King of Pop is the subject of major legal action. None could potentially be bigger than the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the pop icon's mother, Katherine Jackson, against concert promotion giant AEG Live.
Reuters reported that a Los Angeles judge ruled on Wednesday that the civil lawsuit can go forward. It will proceed in parallel with the criminal case against Jackson's physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, who has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with Jackson's June 2009 death from an overdose of the powerful surgical anesthetic propofol. Murray is the only person charged in Jackson's death and he is currently awaiting trial in that matter.
Katherine Jackson's lawsuit — filed in September on behalf of her and Jackson's three young children — accuses AEG of being responsible for the medical decisions made by Murray, whose salary was paid by the touring company behind Jackson's attempted "This Is It" comeback shows in London. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Yvette Palazuelos denied a motion on Wednesday by AEG to dismiss Katherine Jackson's suit, but warned Jackson's attorneys that they would need to show evidence of "fraud, negligent infliction of emotional distress and civil conspiracy" in order to win the case.
The judge has already said she doubts they can prove the latter charge, because the suit does not detail any agreement between Murray and AEG to break the law in providing medical care to Jackson.
"If the object was to get him to rehearsals, I don't see that as a wrongful or illegal act," the judge said. A lawyer for AEG told the judge that the company could not have predicted beforehand that Murray's medical decisions would result in Jackson's death. Court papers also show that AEG "did not choose to hire Murray" and had only participated in negotiations to bring him on as an independent contractor. Michael, who had previously been treated by Murray in Las Vegas, was reportedly the one who suggested the cardiologist serve as his personal, on-call physician during the "This Is It" rehearsals and shows.
Katherine Jackson's attorney recently dropped choreographer Kenny Ortega from the lawsuit based on new information they received about his actions. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for March 22, just six days before Murray is due back in court for his trial. Jackson's father, Joseph, has twice attempted to file a wrongful death suit in the matter, though his is focused on Murray and the Las Vegas pharmacy that supplied the propofol, not AEG Live.
Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1657214/michael-jackson-wrongful-death-suit.jhtml
Emily Blunt Eleanor Boardman Mary Boland Lisa Bonet Helena Bonham-Carter
Britney Spears' 'Hold It Against Me' Video: A Pop-Culture Cheat Sheet
From Greek mythology to mid-'90s Tool albums, Brit's latest is full of blink-and-you'll-miss-it moments.
By James Montgomery
Britney Spears fights herself in "Hold It Against Me"
Photo: Jive
On Thursday night, after weeks of teasing, Britney Spears finally revealed her video for "Hold It Against Me," a whirling, swirling dance explosion that features plenty of sass, swagger and exactly one flowing white gown.
The Jonas Åkerlund-directed clip also features plenty of nods to pop music's past — not to mention several blink-and-you'd-miss-it odes to film, TV and, of course, Greek mythology. As is the case with all massive videos, there's a whole lot to keep track of, so, much like we did for equally big clips like Lady Gaga's "Telephone" and My Chemical Romance's "Na Na Na," we've put "Hold It Against Me" through the wringer and compiled a pop-culture cheat sheet that's alphabetized and cross-referenced for your convenience. Believe us, this took way longer than you could imagine, but it was worth it. (Oh, and despite our best efforts, we're sure there's something we missed, which is why we need your help: Let us know what you spot in the comments below.)
Photos of the references in Britney's "Hold It Against Me."
The Graeae: In Greek mythology, they were the three sisters who shared a single eye. In Britney's video, they're hoodie-wearing dudes with serious dance moves (and no eyes at all). Same thing, really.
Iamamiwhoami: Icky, sticky viral-video enigma whose early clips featured plenty of lying around in the fetal position (and amniotic fluids). In "HIAM," Britney, covered in similarly sticky liquid, curls up on the floor, striking a pose that would make Iamami proud.
Kanye West, "Runaway": Over-the-top 35-minute mini-movie/allegory starring West as a man who cares for a phoenix who has fallen to Earth. The meteor that crashes to Earth at the beginning of "HIAM" reminds us a lot of the phoenix's fiery entrance in 'Ye's film. And, if you look hard enough, you can also see the song's lyrics printed out in the top left corner of the shot.
Madonna, "Bedtime Stories": Ultra-artistic 1995 video, directed by Mark Romanek, that cost a reported $5 million to make. From the futuristic set and the special effects to Brit's long, flowing gown and whirling dancers, it appears to be a direct influence on pretty much everything in "HIAM." Though we're willing to bet Brit didn't spend nearly as much to make her version.
Madonna, "Die Another Day": Big-budget 2002 Madonna video from the equally big-budget James Bond film of the same name. It featured a memorable fight scene that pitted Madge against her alter ego (Mariah Carey did the same thing in her "Heartbreaker" video, BTW). In "HIAM," Britney battles her alter ego in a (very fashionable) kung fu fight.
"The Matrix": Wachowski brothers franchise that featured plenty of TV screens and a whole lot of marauding machinery, just like "HIAM." Like Keanu said, "Whoa."
"Mortal Kombat": Totally awesome (and violent) fighting game that featured, among its cast of characters, a blue-garbed assassin named Sub-Zero. In "HIAM," Britney's dancers don outfits similar to him, only they don't shoot ice out of their hands. Unless that part's in the director's cut.
Robyn, "Indestructible": Sexy 2010 video from Sweden's sexiest pop export, it featured Robyn writhing on a table while wearing a dress made entirely of clear plastic tubes (courtesy of Australian artist Lucy McRae), sort of like the ones Britney uses to spray colored liquid all over the "HIAM" set.
"The Rocky Horror Picture Show": Cult 1975 film adapted from a British play, its iconic poster featured a pair of bright-red lips, which seem to have also made their way into "HIAM."
Tool, Ænema: Totally excellent 1996 album that featured several covers, one of which was a creepy, double-irised eyeball, courtesy of artist Cam de Leon. If you blink (get it?!?), you might miss a similar eyeball that pops up in "HIAM."
What did we miss? Share the pop-culture inspirations you spotted in the comments below!
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658284/britney-spears-hold-it-against-me-references.jhtml
Jessica Alba Elizabeth Allen Joan Allen Karen Allen Krista Allen
Beyonce May Work With Diplo, Sleigh Bells On New Album
Producer says he was 'in NYC tryin' to make tracks' for B and Bells' songwriter/guitarist.
By James Montgomery
Beyonce
Photo: Jeff Kravitz/ WireImage
Over the years, Diplo has worked with everyone from Thom Yorke to Spank Rock (and, of course, M.I.A.) so perhaps it should come as no surprise that, for his next collaboration, he's chosen to work with none other than Beyoncé. Oh, and electro-slammers Sleigh Bells, too. It all makes sense, in some bizarre way.
This is according to Dip himself, who posted a message — and a remix of the Sleigh Bells track "Tell 'Em" — on his blog, in which he let it be known that he, his production partner Switch and Sleigh Bells' songwriter/guitarist Derek Miller just wrapped sessions for Beyoncé's follow-up to I Am ... Sasha Fierce. He wasn't quite sure what would come of the tracks they created.
"Me and Switch was in [the] studio in NYC tryin' to make tracks with Derek and Beyoncé last week after we played her team [Sleigh Bells'] album," Diplo wrote. "Dunno if we gonna manage to finish, but [it] was good times."
At the very least, you know Bey's husband, indie-rock fan Jay-Z, is pumped by the news. Diplo is just the latest in an ever-growing list of top-flight producers who have worked with Beyoncé in recent months. There's still no release date or tentative title for her upcoming album, but she's logged studio time with the likes of S1 (he of "Power" fame), Ne-Yo, Sean Garrett and Jim Jonsin.
A spokesperson for Beyoncé did not respond to MTV News' request for comment on the Diplo tracks by press time.
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1656607/beyonce-diplo-sleigh-bells.jhtml
Julie Benz Elizabeth Berkley Halle Berry Angela Bettis Leslie Bibb
Monday, February 21, 2011
Michael Jackson Doctor Conrad Murray Ordered To Stand Trial
Murray faces manslaughter charges in the singer's death; his medical license has also been suspended.
By Kara Warner
Dr. Conrad Murray
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images
Dr. Conrad Murray has been ordered to stand trial for manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson.
According to The Associated Press, Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor made the decision after a six-day preliminary hearing during which witnesses testified that the Houston cardiologist administered a dose of the powerful anesthetic propofol and other sedatives then left the pop star unmonitored.
During the course of the hearing, testimony was given that Murray ordered hundreds of bottles of propofol in the months before Jackson's death. The AP report also cited the fact that the prosecutors concluded their case with testimony from two doctors who said Murray acted outside the standard of medical care when he administered propofol and failed to provide proper care.
Other damning testimony included that of Jackson's bodyguard, who said that on the morning of the singer's death, it appeared that Murray didn't know how to administer CPR to his dying patient.
Judge Pastor also granted a request by the California Medical Board to suspend Murray's license to practice medicine in the state. Pastor said he made the decision in the interest of public safety and ordered Murray to notify every district in which he practices of the decision within 24 hours. Murray has clinics in Houston and Las Vegas.
Murray, 57, has pleaded not guilty, and his attorneys have argued that he did not give Jackson anything that should have killed him. Murray faces up to four years in prison if convicted.
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Sunday, February 20, 2011
Liam Neeson's 'Unknown': The Reviews Are In!
Critics give high marks to Neeson, but are divided on neo-Hitchcockian thriller.
By Shawn Adler
January Jones and Liam Neeson in "Unknown"
Photo: Warner Bros.
With apologies to the groundhog, Liam Neeson is quickly becoming February's biggest star. Two years after the action-thriller "Taken" made him perhaps Hollywood's unlikeliest action star, the Oscar-nominated man who played Oskar Schindler is back to kick butt and take names in "Unknown," a neo-Hitchcockian thriller about a man who awakens after a car accident to discover the life he thought he had has been taken away, possibly just an after-effect of amnesia.
Is the movie itself worth forgetting? Here's what the critics are saying:
The Twist
"As much as 'Unknown' tries to be an intelligent thriller for grown-ups, the premise is pretty silly and normally, when that's the case, you know it's going to lead to an equally silly twist. Dark Castle regular Jaume Collet-Serra's previous movie 'Orphan' had one of the funniest twist endings possibly ever, though this doesn't quite achieve that extreme of insanity because the plot is so based in thriller clichés we've seen before, there aren't as many surprises until that third act. We won't give away the big twist, though we'll say that the film's biggest problem is that once it's revealed, much of what happens in the film's third act negates what happened earlier by turning much of it into nonsensical drivel." — Edward Douglas, Coming Soon
Will the Real Mr. Neeson Please Stand Up?
"With Harrison Ford mellowing with the years, Liam Neeson is stepping into the position, near and dear to action fans, of the average, over-civilized American man who, finding himself surrounded by trouble, picks up a tire iron and learns to swing it. It's one thing to convince an audience you're tough when you're covered with muscles. But to do so while wearing a jacket and tie takes concentration and sincerity. Neeson brings his own special quality to this type of role. As we saw in 'Taken,' in which he had to rescue his daughter in Paris, and now in 'Unknown,' playing a scholar whose identity gets stolen in Berlin, Neeson has a way of getting upset — a frantic purposefulness — that fills viewers with both empathy and anticipation: He's so miserable that we care." Mick LaSalle, San Francisco Chronicle
"Casting is crucial to a movie. The right lead changes every other aspect of the film, impacting the tone and the way scenes play. The wrong lead will suck the energy out of a movie, leaving what could have been a delight leaden and dull. Liam Neeson is the wrong lead for 'Unknown.' What's worse, he doesn't seem to care; bringing one boring level of gruff intensity to every scene, Neeson is unmodulated and uninterested in creating anything subtle. Which sounds weird when talking about a big, ultimately dumb movie like 'Unknown,' but if Jaume Collet-Serra's last film, the incredible 'The Orphan,' proves one thing it's that his special brand of lunacy needs strong, subtle actors to play it." — Devin Faraci, Badass Digest
The Supporting Players
"The venerable German actor Bruno Ganz plays a former Stasi agent whom Martin hires to help him prove his identity, and Frank Langella has a brief and marvelous small part as an American professor whom Martin contacts for help. The one scene that Ganz and Langella have together is worth the price of admission. Both are actors capable of elevating whatever material they're in, and for a few moments this fair-to-middling spy drama feels as emotionally rich and morally ambiguous as a Graham Greene novel." — Dana Stevens, Slate
The Final Word
"This is a studio thriller released in February, people, not the second coming of Hitchcock. Still, keep your expectations reasonable and director Jaume Collet-Serra — undaunted by the presence of the 2005 'House of Wax' remake on his résumé — will exceed them, delivering an exciting and unjaded entertainment with tremendous atmosphere, one that will keep you guessing almost to the final frame." — Andrew O'Hehir, Salon
Check out everything we've got on "Unknown."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658343/unknown-liam-neeson-reviews.jhtml
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Daniel Radcliffe Does ?Vogue? Magazine
Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe, who made his Broadway debut in Equus a couple of years ago, is making a return to Broadway this year in his first musical role. DanRad will be starring in How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying and his return to the Broadway stage is profiled in the new [...]
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/pinkisthenewblog/~3/SrgP3njvfkM/
Tara Buck Sandra Bullock Carol Burnett Ellen Burstyn Hilarie Burton
Friday, February 18, 2011
Kesha's "Sleazy" leaks
Lord, you sure are girl. Actually, who couldn?t get behind this song? Stealing drinks, making fun of the bourgeoisie, getting laid to phat beats?
The Nicki Minaj appropriation on this song is bald-faced; Kesha?s entire turn is all syncopated faux-weird, accents, birdsong dynamics. The whole nine. And spitting the lamest rhymes probs ever (the part of [...]
The Nicki Minaj appropriation on this song is bald-faced; Kesha?s entire turn is all syncopated faux-weird, accents, birdsong dynamics. The whole nine. And spitting the lamest rhymes probs ever (the part of [...]
Source: http://blog.mtvmusic.com/2010/10/29/keshas-sleazy-leaks/
Summer Bishil Karen Black Selma Blair Jolene Blalock Cate Blanchett
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Usher, Ke$ha And More Help Dance Music Go Pop In 2010
But is it here to stay? Our music-industry experts weigh in.
By Akshay Bhansali
Ke$ha
Photo: Andreas Rentz/ Getty Images
In 2010, pop princesses, R&B icons and chart-dominating newcomers all danced to the same beat. Not only did dance music go pop, but pop music caught the club-music bug.
Between Katy Perry's "Firework," Ke$ha's "We R Who We R," Rihanna's "Only Girl (In the World)," Enrique Iglesias' "I Like It," Usher's "DJ Got Us Fallin' in Love" and "OMG" and countless other singles, established artists definitely looked to dance beats for surefire hits. And two of this year's biggest success stories in music were Jason Derülo and Taio Cruz; could there be a soul left in this country who hasn't heard "Dynamite" or "In My Head"?
The love went both ways, with dance music's biggest stars finding mainstream success this year. Dance-music maestro deadmau5 took up house-artist duties at this year's VMAs, and Swedish House Mafia and Usher teamed up for a medley of their gems at the American Music Awards.
So how did this happen? We caught up with some music-industry experts to get their takes.
"You definitely saw tempos go up this year," Jon Caramanica of The New York Times told MTV News. "And I think what you had are a lot of producers who are really familiar with nightclub stuff. They are familiar with Europe. Things are happening on a more global scale now."
"I think everything from Europe, and sometimes even Asia, it comes to America, and we just adopt things a little bit slower," said Jared Eng of JustJared.com. "I think it was just a change. People like different types of music at different times. And dance was of this moment."
Noah Callahan of Complex magazine added: "I think 2010 saw the merging of the pop and dance genres. Pop artists realized that there were best practices that could be borrowed from dance music. And, ultimately, [all] pop music that has been made in the past 20 years had ended up being remixed for the club by dance artists. I think they basically just cut out the middleman and went straight there."
Dance music being introduced into the hip-hop and R&B realms was particularly notable this year.
"I think David Guetta kind of at the end of last year and the beginning of this year spearheaded it," said freelance writer Julianne Escobedo Shepherd. "He produced a lot of tracks. I think as trends go, people revile 'unst-unst.' But it's just coming back around. Big-room techno was a way for people to get decadent in a year that no one could get decadent."
"You have someone like will.i.am, who's like, 'Well, I spent all this time in Ibiza, and this is what they are doing,' and he wants to find a way to bring that into his music," Caramanica said of the Black Eyed Peas mastermind. "R&B especially became dance music. And especially with your Jason Derülos, Taio Cruzes. Guys like that would have literally been blocked at the border two years ago. That would not have made it through customs. And now all of a sudden they have #1 songs. I think will.i.am had a lot to do with that last year."
Elliott Wilson of RapRadar.com added: "It's actually even affected hip-hop. I was talking to Q-Tip, and his next record, I feel like that's gonna kind of go in that vein. I know that was also Jay-Z's thought process with Blueprint 3 at first, that he wanted to make a little bit more of a world music [vibe], a little more dancey. I think the kids today want to go to the clubs. They wanna have a good time. They wanna dance. So I think the artists of today are trying to kind of feed that audience."
"I think it's caught on this year because the people who've done it have been successful," offered Clover Hope of Vibe magazine. "Like 'OMG,' with usher, he didn't have success until he made a dance record. He had 'There Goes My Baby' and these really, like, adult-contemporary records that didn't really catch on. And then once you see that everybody is doing it and that people are liking it, they are like, 'OK, let me just try this out.' It's like Auto-Tune. Like, 'Let me see what I sound like on a record by David Guetta.' They end up liking it and doing more of it."
So does the club-music trend have staying power. According to our tastemakers, not so much.
"I do think it's a blip," Caramanica said. "I don't think that's gonna be something that lasts in America. I think this is gonna be a moment we'll all look back on and go, 'Wasn't that weird when Jason Derülo and Taio Cruz had #1 records?"
"At some point, these R&B artists will get kind of sick of it and be like, 'Let me go back to my soul background,' " Hope said. "When you actually have to say something, dance doesn't really lend itself to substance. And I think that R&B artists, they really want to talk about love and in a deep way, and to do that, you need to do, like, a soul or a traditional R&B record. I want to say that it's kind of a fad."
"I think music is very cyclical," Eng offered. "So I think dance music might be here for a little bit, but I'm sure it will phase out at some point."
Wilson called dance music "the sound of today. I think that people want more aggressive, faster beats, and I think that that probably has legs until at least next summer."
What do you think? Is dance music here to stay? Let us know in the comments!
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Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Ke$ha - Blah Blah Blah
- Artist: Ke$ha
- Label: RCA
- Director: Brendan Malloy
- Album: Animal [Clean]
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=3213641&vid=487452
Kathy Bates Anne Baxter Jennifer Beals Amanda Bearse Kate Beckinsale
Beyoncé - Ego (Remix)
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia, Music World Music
- Director: Beyonce, Frank Gatson
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1236911&vid=401347
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Monday, February 14, 2011
Britney Spears - Break the Ice
- Artist: Britney Spears
- Label: Jive/Zomba Label Group
- Director: Robert Hales
- Album: Blackout
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=501686&vid=215555
Laura Allen Trini Alvarado Lauren Ambrose Mädchen Amick Gillian Anderson
Michael Jackson's 'Thriller': Story Behind The 'Glee' Cover
MJ classic is mashed up with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' 'Heads Will Roll' for post-Super Bowl episode.
By Aly Semigran
"Glee"
Photo: FOX
Madonna, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and now, finally, Michael Jackson. The cast of "Glee" has covered plenty of icons during their first two seasons, but it's taken 33 episodes to get around to the King of Pop.
With a huge catalog of Jackson songs, the singing, dancing students of McKinley High paid homage to the late singer with one of his biggest staples (and, arguably, the greatest music video of all time) with their take on "Thriller."
The groundbreaking single from Jackson's best-selling album of the same name was mashed up with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' "Heads Will Roll" for the post-Super Bowl episode (titled "The Sue Sylvester Bowl Shuffle"), featuring a zombie-fied "Glee" cast.
Bound to become a smash all over again (though with its nonstop rotation at Halloween parties and wedding receptions until the end of time, it's never truly gone away), here's a brief history of the dance/pop classic.
Released on January 23, 1984, "Thriller" was the seventh, and final, single to be released from Jackson's smash record. According to the RIAA, the album (released by Epic Records) has gone gold 29 times, narrowly edging out the Eagles' Greatest Hits 1971-1975 for the title of best-selling album of all time.
In 2009, MTV News estimated that the Thriller album was poised to go triple diamond, meaning 30 million records sold in the U.S. alone.
After Thriller's other singles (including "Billie Jean," "Beat It" and "Wanna Be Startin' Something") dominated the charts, it was time for the spooky, undeniably original track to take over. The song "Thriller" also appeared on many of Jackson's other albums, including the compilations HIStory and Number Ones.
Clocking in at a little under six minutes (though the radio edit was closer to four-and-a-half), the song features pop-music mainstays like synthesizers but shakes things up with its spooky sound effects, including creaking floors, howling and thunder.
The song was produced by Quincy Jones and written and composed by Rod Tempterton and spent 14 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #4.
But it's the music video for "Thriller" that truly made it the phenomenon it was in the '80s and continues to be today. Less a music video than a mini-motion picture, the video (over 13 minutes long and directed by John Landis) won three MTV Video Music Awards and has been named the best music video of all time by many outlets, including VH1 for the special "VH1: 100 Greatest Videos."
The chiller features Jackson in that iconic red leather jacket on a date with his girlfriend (played by Ola Ray) before things go terribly awry. After all, as Jackson (whose disclaimer at the start of the video reads, "This film in no way endorses a belief in the occult") sings in the opening line, "It's close to midnight and something evil's lurking in the dark." Cue werewolves, zombies, Vincent Price's soliloquy and one of the most memorable dance sequences ever.
The video was (no pun intended) a monster hit. As the Los Angeles Times notes, "At the height of the song's popularity, MTV would run the 14-minute 'Thriller' video twice an hour."
Choreographed by Jackson and Michael Peters (who, as the LA Times also reported, appears in the video as one of the zombies) and with makeup by Oscar-winner Rick Baker (also an undead "Thriller" extra) was made with a huge budget of an estimated $500,000.
Still, the efforts paid off. Landis (who told the "Today" show back in 2009 that no one wanted to give them the funds to make the risky vid) made the accompanying 45-minute documentary about the venture, called "The Making of Thriller." Featuring the behind-the-scenes wizardry, as well as the music video in full, it would go on to move more than 10 million copies.
Since then, the signature song and video have seen their share fair of tributes in movies (notably in the 2004 comedy"13 Going on 30") and TV ("South Park," "Family Guy," "30 Rock," among others), not to mention the countless flash mobs that have gone viral. (Remember the prisoners in the Philippines who became overnight phenomenons on YouTube?)
Even with the "Glee" number, this likely won't be the last incarnation of "Thriller." Billboard reported in October that a "Thriller" film is in the works. With a plot allegedly revolving around Price's narration, Kenny Ortega, who directed Jackson's last effort, "This Is It," will reportedly helm the project.
Since Jackson's untimely passing on June 25, 2009, the song and video's legacy continue to live on. In the week following Jackson's death, "Thriller" was the best-selling track in the U.S., with sales of 167,000 copies on the Billboard Hot Digital Singles chart.
Then, in December 2009, "Thriller" was the first music video to ever be inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. It seems "no mere mortal can resist ... the thriller" after all.
What did you think of the "Thriller" mash-up on "Glee"? Let us know in the comments!
Related Videos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1657395/glee-thriller.jhtml
Maria Bello Annette Bening Julie Benz Elizabeth Berkley Halle Berry
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Britney Spears - 3
- Artist: Britney Spears
- Label: Jive, Jive Label Group
- Director: Diane Martel
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=501686&vid=452061
Halle Berry Angela Bettis Leslie Bibb Jessica Biel Rachel Bilson
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Lady Gaga To Release 'Born This Way' Early
'Can't wait any longer, single coming Friday,' singer tweets.
By Jocelyn Vena
Lady Gaga
Photo: Getty Images
Those of you who can't wait until Sunday to hear Lady Gaga's new single no longer have to. The singer announced Monday (February 7) that she will release "Born This Way" two days early, on Friday. "Can't wait any longer, single coming Friday," Gaga tweeted.
Nothing else new is known about the song itself, though Lady Gaga released its feel-good lyrics late last month. At the VMAs last September, Gaga sang part of the chorus, but nothing else of the song has been heard in the months since. On the song's chorus, she sings, "I'm beautiful in my way/ 'Cause God makes no mistakes/ I'm on the right track, baby/ I was born this way/ Don't hide yourself in regret/ Just love yourself and you're set/ I'm on the right track baby/ I was born this way."
Just six days ago, when the single was still slated to debut at the Grammy Awards on February 13, she had this tease for her fans: "So many nights I've wept, too many thoughts to say. But now it's less than 12 days left, till I was Born This Way. X Mother Monster."
One person who has heard the song is Gaga's pal, Perez Hilton. He spoke to MTV News about the track, off Gaga's May album release of the same name, and gave it a glowing review.
"Fans can expect all the hype to be true with 'Born This Way' and with the album," he shared. "And you know what? It is a very gay song — unapologetically, gay-in-your-face gay — but it's also a universal song that can relate to everyone. To all of us outsiders, to all of us freaks, to all of us who feel different. And the music is undeniable. It sounds like a smash. It is a smash. It is one of the best songs of Gaga's career."
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1657389/lady-gaga-releases-born-this-way.jhtml
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Beyonce To Star In Clint Eastwood's 'A Star Is Born' Remake
Movie will be directed and produced by the Oscar winner.
By Kara Warner
Beyoncé
Photo: Paul Warner/ WireImage
Beyoncé Knowles is headed back to the big screen and into the familiar territory of playing an aspiring singer-turned-superstar. According to Deadline, Knowles will star in a remake of "A Star Is Born," to be directed and produced by Oscar winner Clint Eastwood for Warner Bros.
The remake will be the fourth telling of the "A Star Is Born" tale, the most memorable in recent years being the 1976 version with Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson as star-crossed lovers of sorts. It is also worth mentioning that the producers of that film, Billy Gerber and Jon Peters, are also attached to this new project. It is said to be a full-on musical with production set to begin sometime in the fall.
Naturally, the plot details are under wraps, but the original story revolves around an aspiring singer who meets and falls in love with a troubled, failing former star who helps get the young ingénue her big break in the business.
No announcements have been made with regard to the male lead, but the report mentioned that major names like Will Smith, Robert Downey Jr. and Jon Hamm have been floated around.
It's definitely an interesting step for Knowles but not necessarily a surprise, given the fact that the majority of her film roles have been as singers ("Cadillac Records," "Dreamgirls," "The Fighting Temptations"). While many thought "Dreamgirls" would bring awards recognition for Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson's supporting role ended up garnering the most attention. With Oscar fave Eastwood at the helm of this new project, Knowles could be in line for some hardware yet.
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1656365/beyonce-star-clint-eastwoods-star-born-remake.jhtml
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Thursday, February 10, 2011
'X-Men: First Class': Everything We've Seen So Far
Before the hotly anticipated trailer debuts, we thumb through our first peeks at Magneto, Charles Xavier, Emma Frost and more.
By Eric Ditzian
Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr in "X-Men: First Class"
Photo: Murray Close
The first trailer for "X-Men: First Class" is only hours away from going live on the film's Facebook page, giving us our first look at footage from the upcoming superhero flick.
It's been a long time coming, considering that Fox first gave a go-ahead for the script back in 2008. Since then, we've gleaned all sorts of insight into the project, from interviews with behind-the-scenes players to production rumors to casting confirmations. And since filming began late last summer, we've been gifted with a slew of set photos and official production shots. Before the trailer arrives, let's review everything we've seen so far.
First Look at January Jones
Our initial peek at "X-Men" came early last September, when photos of the "Mad Men" star — in full, fur-hatted costume as telepathic Emma Frost — popped up online. The aesthetic for the outfit seemed to be retro-futuristic, at once in keeping with the film's '60s-era setting and the mutants' ahead-of-the-human-curve outlook. The photos also indicated — based on the presence of a red-starred jeep and helicopter — that the military will somehow factor into the story line.
Meet James McAvoy
Weeks later, we got our first look at McAvoy as Charles Xavier. Although taken at night and a little blurry, the photos once again showcased the film's retro vibe. According to a report from an onlooker on the Oxford, England, set, the scene in question features Xavier "getting doctorates in theology and philosophy from Oxford University in the 1960s, his manipulation of student uprisings using his psychic powers and the way he meets best friend-turned-archrival Magneto."
The Fallen Blackbird
By December, the production had shifted Stateside and we got a tantalizing look at Xavier's Blackbird ship. The aerial shots seemed to indicate the ship had crashed on a beach. The actual location of the shoot was an island off the coast of Georgia, but speculation suggested the in-film setting would be Muir Island, Scotland, where Xavier conducts experiments to better understand the mutant gene. Weeks later, a supposed "X-Men" storyboard indicated that a mutant may be responsible for a Blackbird crash.
Look at All Those Mutants!
In January, a photo popped up showing a bunch of mutants together, including Jones, McAvoy, Michael Fassbender (Magneto), Rose Byrne (Moira MacTaggert) and Jennifer Lawrence (Mystique). It turned out the photo was an early leak, and director Matthew Vaughn was not pleased.
"When I found out, I said, 'What the f--- is this sh--?' and Fox is running around trying to figure out what happened as well," he said. "I agree. It's like a bad Photoshop, which maybe it was by someone. It didn't reflect the movie. I was shocked when I saw it."
Official photos soon arrived: Kevin Bacon as Hellfire Club baddie Sebastian Shaw, rocking an ascot and talking business with Jones; Fassbender and James McAvoy looking stylish and concerned alongside some of their mutant students; a helmet-clad Fassbender as Magneto; and McAvoy employing Xavier's gift of telepathy.
Most recently, looks at Magento from behind and the full X-Men logo were published on Wednesday, ahead of the trailer premiere.
"I'm a fan of X-Men. We're not bastardizing X-Men, I'm trying to get them back to being whole again," Vaughn said. "It's definitely more serious and more realistic, and I think that's something that had to happen. That's my feeling about the world we live in right now. I think the glossy colorful superhero film sorta had its day."
Check out everything we've got on "X-Men: First Class."
For breaking news and previews of the latest comic book movies — updated around the clock — visit SplashPage.MTV.com.
Related PhotosSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1657668/x-men-first-class-trailer.jhtml
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Beyoncé - If I Were A Boy
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia/Music World Music
- Director: Jake Nava
- Album: I Am...Sasha Fierce
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1236911&vid=288236
Drew Barrymore Kim Basinger Angela Bassett Kathy Bates Anne Baxter
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Beyoncé - If I Were A Boy
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia/Music World Music
- Director: Jake Nava
- Album: I Am...Sasha Fierce
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1236911&vid=288236
Lisa Bonet Helena Bonham-Carter Shirley Booth Rachel Boston Kate Bosworth
Mary J. Blige Dishes On Her 'Crazy' Led Zeppelin Covers
'I've listened to their music since I was a child,' says the R&B diva, who recorded 'Stairway to Heaven' and 'Whole Lotta Love.'
By James Montgomery, with reporting by Larry Carroll
Mary J. Blige
Photo: MTV News
You wouldn't peg Mary J Blige as the black-light-and-tapestry sort, but, as has become readily apparent in recent weeks, she absolutely loves Led Zeppelin.
In early February, reports began circulating that Blige had re-recorded Zeppelin's classic "Stairway to Heaven," working with Travis Barker, "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson and guitarist Steve Vai on the track, which is slated to appear on the international reissue of her Stronger With Each Tear album, due Monday.
But after she had recorded "Stairway," Blige continued to get the Led out, covering another Zeppelin classic — the thunderous "Whole Lotta Love" — for the album too. And when MTV News caught up with her on the Essence Black Women in Hollywood red carpet, she told us all about channeling her inner Robert Plant for the tracks, a process that came much easier than you'd probably imagine.
"I did Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven' and 'Whole Lotta Love' — it's crazy," she said. "I am a Led Zeppelin fan. I'm not going to say I've been to their concerts, but I've listened to their music since I was a child, and it's always moved me, especially 'Stairway to Heaven,' and 'Whole Lotta Love' is just fun."
Blige also said she recorded another new song — a "club record" called "I Can't Wait" — for the re-release. And while it's only slated to hit shelves outside the U.S., she hopes her fans will get a chance to hear all the new songs pretty soon.
"I want y'all to hear it," she laughed.
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1633563/mary-j-blige-dishes-on-her-crazy-led-zeppelin-covers.jhtml
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Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Michael Jackson Doctor Conrad Murray Didn't Seem To Know CPR, Bodyguard Testifies
Jackson's two oldest children were in bedroom witnessing drama, bodyguard Faheem Muhammed said.
By Gil Kaufman
Conrad Murray (file)
Photo: AFP/ Getty Images
One of the most shocking revelations to emerge from the first day of testimony in the pretrial hearing of former Michael Jackson doctor Conrad Murray is that as the pop icon lay dying in his rented Los Angeles mansion, cardiologist Murray asked in a panic, "Does anyone know CPR?"
According to CNN, that's what bodyguard Faheem Muhammed said on the stand. Tuesday was the first day of testimony in hearings aimed at determining whether there is enough evidence to try Murray on a felony count of involuntary manslaughter in the June 2009 death of the King of Pop.
The hearing is slated to last around two weeks and feature 20 to 30 witnesses, most of whom will be medical professionals. But it was the shocking testimony of Muhammed on Tuesday that grabbed headlines. He said that he and fellow guard Alberto Alvarez walked in on a scene in which Murray was crouched next to the motionless body of Jackson and it appeared that the heart surgeon did not know how to give CPR.
As they waited for paramedics to arrive, Muhammed said Murray stood next to Jackson's bed and asked in a panicked voice if anyone else in the room knew how to administer the life-saving technique.
"I looked at Alberto because we knew Dr. Murray was a heart surgeon, so we were shocked," Muhammed said. When defense attorney Ed Chernoff asked whether Murray was asking for help because he was exhausted after staying up all night administering sleep aids to the chronically insomniac Jackson, Muhammed replied, "The way that he asked it is as if he didn't know CPR." He also said that he never witnessed Murray performing CPR on Jackson before paramedics arrived and that the singer's two oldest children, Prince Michael and Paris, were in their father's bedroom as the drama was unfolding. Among the Jackson family members in court on Tuesday to watch the proceedings were family matriarch Katherine, sister LaToya and brothers Randy and Jackie.
Prosecutor David Walgren referred to Murray's use of "ineffectual" CPR, which included using one hand while Jackson was on a soft bed, which is counter to recommended techniques. Walgren also told the judge in the case that medical experts would testify that Murray took "a number of actions" that "showed an extreme deviation from the standard of care," after being hired to serve as Jackson's personal physician in the lead-up to a series of comeback shows in England.
The prosecutor also claimed that Murray waited at least 21 minutes to call an ambulance after he found Jackson unresponsive. "By all accounts, Michael Jackson was dead in the bedroom at 100 North Carolwood prior to the paramedics' arrival," Walgren said. The Los Angeles County coroner later determined that the singer died of "acute propofol intoxication," saying the overdose of the surgical anesthetic and the combined effects of other sedatives caused his death.
Chernoff has said that Murray administered propofol and other sedatives to Jackson in the hours before the pop star's death, but not in quantities that "should have" caused his death. CNN reported that Murray's defense team hinted that it would argue that Jackson was facing intense pressure over his upcoming 50-date This Is It comeback series of shows at London's O2 Arena and that led to his demands for treatment to help his chronic insomnia.
Also testifying on Tuesday was the director of the shows, Kenny Ortega, who described Jackson as "involved, active, participating" at his final rehearsal, which ended 12 hours before his death. That was very different from the out-of-it singer who could barely make it through rehearsals on June 19, six nights before his death. At a meeting called after Ortega sent Jackson home that night for some rest, the director described a scene in which Murray scolded him for cutting the rehearsal short.
"Dr. Murray told me that this was not my responsibility, and he asked me not to act like a doctor or psychologist," Ortega said. Murray has pleaded not guilty in the case, and according to a recent report, Walgren believes that the doctor's lawyers may claim that Jackson self-administered the final, fatal dose of propofol and essentially killed himself after waking up in a panic from a fitful night of sleep.
Testimony in the case will continue on Wednesday (January 5).
Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1655306/michael-jackson-doctor-conrad-murray-cpr.jhtml
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Monday, February 7, 2011
Beyoncé - Video Phone (Extended Remix)
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia, Music World Music
- Director: Hype Williams
- Album: I Am...Sasha Fierce
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1236911&vid=455581
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Beyoncé - Ego (Remix)
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia, Music World Music
- Director: Beyonce, Frank Gatson
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1236911&vid=401347
Bea Arthur Candice Azzara Lauren Bacall Morena Baccarin Katherine Baker
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