Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Lil' Mama ft. Chris Brown And T-Pain "Shawty Get Loose" Video Premiere

"Shawty Get Loose," featuring Chris Brown and T-Pain, is Lil' Mama's 3rd single from her to-be-released debut album Voice Of The Young People. I like the song and the video is hot. I had no idea her label was supporting her ($$$-wise) so much, considering how they didn't release her album following the success if "Lip Gloss." She sure is becoming quite the video queen though, I must say. Also, I'm not the biggest fan of Chris Brown, seeing as how he uses more voice-correcting effects than anyone (other than T-Pain, actually), so I have to wonder what was up with those ...facial expressions?

Kanye West Set To Tour With Rihanna, Others

Kanye West's "Glow In The Dark" tour is set to take off soon, with several hot acts on 1 ticket, including Rihanna, N.E.R.D. and Lupe Fiasco. Wow! The hottest guy and girl in the game, Pharrell's powerhouse team, which is coming back on the scene hard with their new single "Everybody Nose," and Lupe Fiasco, who recently released a new album that was well-received. I don't believe I am mistaken in thinking that this could also give Kanye, Pharrell and Lupe the chance to perform as their new group CRS (see: "Us Placers") as well. So, lots of great music and opportunity on this one. I also thought that the ad for the tour, posted to your left, deserved acknowledgement--awesome!

[Source]

New Janet Jackson Promo Pics

5 new promotional pictures have emerged featuring Janet Jackson. These are obviously promoting the upcoming release of her new album Discipline on February 26th. To echo the general buzz, she looks fabulous, youthful, and, actually, very reminiscent of her Velvet Rope era in some of the photos. It's good to see her smiling, but I always love how great she looks in her serious shots. *Fierce!* As I adore "Feedback," her current single for those who've been living under a rock (and haven't had the chance to see the AMAZING video for the song, featured at the top and to the right of this very blog), I can't wait for Janet's return.


Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Leona Lewis "Bleeding Love (US Version)" Video Premiere

"Bleeding Love" is the first single from Leona Lewis' debut album Spirit, due out in the US on April 8th. She shot a brand new video for the song to make her debut in America, which is really exciting, as it is a great song from an amazing new singer. Though I think I prefer the UK version of the video, Leona looks beautiful in this one. Also, WhOa! to that Times Square shot at the end.

Album Review: Natasha Bedingfield "Pocketful Of Sunshine"

She definitely got the title right. When I think of Natasha Bedingfield, as anyone would (in America, at least), I think of her cheesy, overplayed, inspirational song "Unwritten," and, by default, bright, happy things like sunshine. And while for the most part, with Pocketful Of Sunshine, her sophomore album in the US, she stays bubbly and happy, Bedingfield gets a little deeper here and there, and ultimately serves up an album worth listening to.

The album starts out strong and stays that way, give or take a track or two, until the end, when several album-fillers begin to run together. The first track, "Put Your Arms Around Me," is a catchy, fun, and not annoying tune that got me hooked, while the title track and second single that follows is only average overall; still, first single "Love Like This," which features Sean Kingston, is what got me interested in the album in the first place. "Piece Of Your Heart" is what seems like one of those outside-the-box tracks, to some degree, that good artists always try out--and, in this case, it worked. Not until "Soulmate" did I actually think I would have any kind of emotional connection to this album, but I found it very relatable. Another good listen comes in the form of the track "Angel," which is followed by another lyrically intriguing song, "Backyard." From there, corniness and averageness ensues, though I must give her credit for including a track with the title "Pirate Bones," and the fact that, while not my favorite of album-closers, "Not Givin' Up" is an alright track.

It is hard to point out a specific direction that this album may have taken for both the facts that it was more or less patched together with tracks from her sophomore effort across the Atlantic, N.B., and new songs, and that I can only assume her label intended on recording more than a normal album's fair share of cheese so as to capitalize on what could possibly become part two of "Unwritten." Still, Natasha's unique voice allows her to stand out among the crowd of young women singing pop music today and her unique style makes her music more interesting and fun. Let's just hope they do not take one of this CD's best tracks and completely overplay it on the radio this time.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

(Photo Credit: Amazon)

*UPDATED* Missy Elliott To Shoot "Ching-A-Ling" Music Video In 3D

For the music video of her new single, "Ching-A-Ling," Missy Elliott will team up once again with director Dave Meyers to create the world's first 3D music video. This is blatantly foreshadowed by the single's cover. With the recent revival of 3D in films (that I am a fan of), this is sure to be incredible! Missy, along with Meyers, is always innovative and I can think of no one better to present the world with this completely fresh concept than her.

UPDATE: Billboard reports that not only will the video feature Missy's "Ching-A-Ling" from the Step Up 2: The Streets soundtrack, but also her other song from the CD, "Shake Your Pom Pom." Also, the video will premiere in 3D on TRL this Monday, February 4th!

[Source]

Gwen Stefani Pregnant With 2nd Child

Gwen Stefani and her husband, rocker Gavin Rossdale, are expecting their 2nd child. After having their first child, Kingston, who turns 2 this May, Gwen expressed her desire to have another baby. She is supposedly 13 weeks along. Congrats, Gwen!

[Source, Source]

Monday, January 28, 2008

*UPDATED* Leona Lewis "Spirit" Update

To your left is the cover art for Leona Lewis' debut album Spirit, which is now set to be released in the US on April 8th via J/SyCo Music. The album's American release will feature 2 new, exclusive tracks: "Forgive Me," written by Akon, and "Misses Glass," which was written and produced by Mad Scientist and Rock City. The US version of the music video for "Bleeding Love," Spirit's first single, will premiere February 4th on VH1 and is directed by Jessy Terrero. The CD has been a massive success in the UK, so Lewis is ready to take on America. Spirit is a great CD by a phenomenal new vocalist and I hope it does well in the US. Still, why they think releasing it 1 week after Mariah's new record comes out is a good idea, I do not know (unless they anticipate a push back, which is possible, yet again, considering all the delay for that single!) The fact that she is working with Mad Scientist, who has previously worked with Nicole Scherzinger on her song "Supervillain," is exciting though, as I love that song. One thing I wanted to point out: is it just me, or are they really trying to fuel this whole Mariah Carey comparison thing with this cover? Check out Mariah's also seemingly-timeless face shot (self-titled) debut album cover HERE. I'm just saying...

UPDATE: It seems Leona's official site is telling a bit of a different story. In regards to the "Bleeding Love" US video premiere, Lewis is to appear on TRL this Wednesday to premiere the video in person, which is sooner than the reported VH1 premiere. The fact that the site mentions a "sneak peek," though, disturbs me. We'd better not get our hopes up just to see 15 seconds of the thing! *crosses fingers*

[Source, Source]

OneRepublic "Stop And Stare" Video Premiere

"Stop And Stare" is the 2nd single (1st exclusively) from OneRepublic's debut album Dreaming Out Loud, out late last year. The single choice is alright for me, and while it makes me really pay attention to and appreciate the song in a whole new light, it seems safe. My jam on that CD is definitely "Say (All I Need)," not that I expected (or still do) it to be released as a single. Still, while this isn't my favorite genre of music, Timbaland's touch on their CD got my attention and held it.

[Source]

Beyonce To Play Etta James

Singer and actress Beyonce Knowles is set to play Etta James in the new movie "Cadillac Records," Cedric the Entertainer recently revealed. The film is also his next movie. James is a famous singer, well known for hits such as "At Last," among others. It seems Beyonce has decided to once again stretch those acting muscles *yawn* and continue on her journey to winning an Oscar. As much as I doubt it'll happen, I don't mind her acting. I am a pretty big fan, so the more Beyonce, the better.

[Source]

Friday, January 25, 2008

Ashanti "The Way That I Love You" Single Cover

It may just be a single, but here is the cover for Ashanti's latest 1st single, "The Way That I Love You," off her delayed 4th album The Declaration, out June 3rd. I think this is the strongest release so far from the upcoming project, as I was not impressed at all by the first 2.

Jennifer Lopez, Husband Re-create Aladdin

For Disney Parks' Year Of A Million Dreams, Jennifer Lopez and hubby Marc Anthony have done a photoshoot re-creating the characters of Aladdin and Jasmine that are featured in Disney's classic version of Aladdin. I rather like the photo, as well as the idea. For more celebs as Disney characters, including Beyonce as Alice In Wonderland, click HERE.

[Source]

Ashlee Simpson To Release Digital EP

On February 5th, Ashlee Simpson is set to digitally release a 3-song EP that will precede the release of her 3rd studio album, Bittersweet World, later this spring. Titled after "Outta My Head (Ay Ya Ya)," the album's first single, the EP will include that song as well as "Catch Me When I Fall," taken from her latest album I Am Me, and a new song entitled "Rule Breaker" that is to be featured on Simpson's upcoming release. I am definitely looking forward to some new Ashlee, though I doubt I'll invest in this, as I would rather save my money and buy the album. It is inevitable that, in some form or another, the new song will be available for listening, so that's a plus. Still, for those of you who typically download, unlike me, one of the few left that prefers physical releases, this seems like a temptation to say the least.

[Source]

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Carrie Underwood "All-American Girl" Video Premiere

"All-American Girl" is the 2nd single from Idol winner Carrie Underwood's sophomore album Carnival Ride, released last year. The song is a bit cheesy, as it is country, so you learn to expect it when you listen to Carrie. I'm not one for country, personally, but Carrie was great during Idol, so I follow her and really enjoy her singing, despite the genre. This video, on the other hand, is quite entertaining and funny. But, wow, did she have a lot of costume changes during this shoot. LOL to the "Before He Cheats" reference at the end. Perfect irony for the song.

The Caffeine Patch: 3 Toy Story Movies. 3 3D Releases.

Imo, probably THE most exciting news possible was announced today. In anticipation of the release of Toy Story 3 in Disney Digital 3D on June 18, 2010, Disney/Pixar will theatrically re-release both Toy Story and Toy Story 2 ... in 3D as well! As the Toy Story films are my absolute favorite movies, and have been for years, as dorky as that might be, I couldn't imagine being more hyped about pretty much anything, especially movie-wise. The release dates for the first 2 movies are as follows:

Toy Story: 3D
October 2, 2009

Toy Story 2: 3D
February 12, 2010

Though it may be a long way away, is this not incredibly amazing? 3D Revival, more power to ya!

[Source, Buy Toy Story: 10th Anniversary Edition DVD]

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

The Caffeine Patch: Ratatouille And Surf's Up Nominated For Oscars!

The 80th Annual Academy Award Nominations were recently announced, and, in the one and only category I care about, Best Animated Feature Film, 2 of my favorite films from last year were nominated: "Ratatouille" and "Surf's Up"! Congratulations to both teams of filmmakers on this wonderful honor. Additionally, Disney/Pixar's "Ratatouille" was nominated for a total of 5 awards, so an extra congrats to them for that! The Oscars will air on February 24th at 8/7c on ABC.

[Source, Source]

Ray J ft. Yung Berg "Sexy Can I" Video Premiere

"Sexy Can I," featuring rapper Yung Berg, is R&B singer Ray J's first single from his upcoming album All I Feel, due in April. The song is alright, but forgettable. I find myself getting bored by both it and the video quickly. Btw, Yung Berg? ... Really? Imo, there are too many rappers out there and not enough urban vocalists getting a chance to shine. Therefore, I am giving Ray J a second chance, as I purchased his previous effort Raydiation, which is nothing spectacular, but has its shining moments.

Monday, January 21, 2008

*UPDATED* Jennifer Hudson Album Update

In a recent interview with the Houston Chronicle, Ryan Tedder, co-writer and producer of both Jennifer Lopez's "Do It Well" and Leona Lewis' "Bleeding Love," said there's "a very strong possibility" he'll work on Jennifer Hudson's upcoming debut album. Tedder mentioned that the album's direction is leaning toward "high-energy, beat-driven material with soulful hooks." He also gave some insight as to the reason for the delay of the album's release and name-dropped another producer Hudson is working with:

"They made half an album and ended up scrapping it. Clive — wisely, I think — said, 'No one's going to buy this. We're trying to turn her into Aretha Franklin, and that's not realistic,'" Tedder said. "They scrapped a bunch of songs and started fresh.

"I heard a Timbaland song that was by far the best song she's done. I do wish, and I know the label wishes, that this album had come out six months ago. But Clive's smart. He didn't want to just put out a crap album just because of the momentum."

I am excited to hear Timbaland's (and Tedder's, for that matter) contribution(s) to the project. I also agree with Clive's and the label's reasonings, and while I would have bought it had it even been just the Dreamgirls soundtrack continued, it would not have been the best idea in regards to overall record sales and appeal. Interesting to hear details that give me some hope that we may hear some new J-Hud music in the near-ish future!

UPDATE: It was recently announced that, in addition to new music, Jennifer will be keeping busy (possibly) starring in the new film "Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys." More information can be found HERE. Following her award-winning breakthrough role in "Dreamgirls", Hudson has worked on the upcoming movies "Winged Creature" and "Sex and the City," and was recently cast in the adaptation of the novel "The Secret Life Of Bees."

[Source, Source]

Saturday, January 19, 2008

New Ashlee Simpson Promo Pics

3 new promotional images have emerged for Ashlee Simpson and her new album Bittersweet World, due in March. The first single, "Outta My Hear (Ay Ya Ya)," is an intriguing departure from her previous work, with the video being both very unique and interesting. These photos are really quite amazing, so I hope Ash is able to find success with her latest effort.

[Source]

Fergie To Be Featured On Next Nelly Single

For what might now be considered the first single ("Wadsyaname" aside) off Nelly's forthcoming '08 release Brass Knuckles, he is teaming up with the unstoppable Fergie for a track called "Party People," reportedly. An impact date has also been set for February 19th. I'm excited because Fergie has been putting out some hot stuff and she might actually be enough for me to start checking for Nelly!

[Source, Source]

Jordin Sparks "Your Prom" Magazine Cover + Pic

Jordin Sparks, the 6th and most recent winner of American Idol, is featured on the cover and inside of Your Prom. To the left is one of the pictures from the article, with more from the magazine HERE. I am quite the fan of Ms. Sparks, due both to her music (her self-titled debut album was recently released) and my insanely huge crush I have on her. I'll take you to the prom! I have one coming up too! Ah, if only...

Mary J. Blige "Vibe" Magazine Cover

Mary J. Blige is featured on the February '08 cover of Vibe Magazine. I presume she is still promoting her album Growing Pains, which was released in December and I quite enjoy, as it gets better with each listen! I just gotta say it ... "work that," girl! Yes!

[Source]

Mariah Carey "That Chick" Out April 1st

The above image is the (presumed) cover for Mariah Carey's upcoming new album entitled That Chick, which is set to be released April 1st. Discopop recently offered some insight as to how the album might sound and they gave an optimistic view on what to expect, pointing out that Def Jam boss LA Reid plans to release 6 singles from the project. Billboard also announced details for the upcoming release, including the tracklisting:

"Lovin' You Long Time"
"Touch My Body"
"That Chick"
"Thanx for Nothin'"
"For the Record"
"Migrate" (ft. T-Pain)
"Cruise Control" (ft. Damien Marley)
"Love Story"
"OOC"
"Bye Bye"

Interestingly enough, Mariah Daily Journal pointed out 2 confirmed song titles not included in the tracklist: "For Real, For Real" and "Heat," which was once being considered for the first single, along with title track "That Chick," "Migrate," and "Touch My Body." And while no official first single has been chosen, a radio impact date has been set for January 29th. I reeeally hope we hear at least the new single within the next week or so because, especially considering how hot it should be, I am DYING for some new Mariah! Some might point out, though, that the 10-track CD isn't enough music to release an album with these days (similar complaints occured with the first release of Beyonce's B'Day and Monica's release of The Makings Of Me back in October '06), but I disagree because, like, imo, the short-and-sweet B'Day, if someone with the kind of talent and the amount of success that Mariah has is releasing an album this short, it is HOT and not full of crappy fillers in between the good songs. So, along with a new Brandy album, there is nothing I want more than this new Mimi record. I can't wait!

Mariah, Others Featured On Randy Jackson's Upcoming Debut Solo Album

Randy Jackson, currently known as an American Idol judge, will be releasing his first solo album, Randy Jackson's Music Club, Vol. 1, on March 11th. The first single features fellow Idol judge Paula Abdul singing for the first time in many years on "Dance Like There's No Tomorrow," the video for which is said to be premiering during the Super Bowl. The album itself also features numerous guests, including Mariah Carey, amongst others, on "I Understand" and both Katharine McPhee and Elliott Yamin (both season 5 Idol finalists) on "Real Love." I, personally, can't wait to hear both of the latter songs, while I was impressed by Paula(-bot) on the recently leaked first single. This is perfect timing, too, as interest is not only heightening for new Mariah material, as well as information on previous Idol finalists, but also the show (and its judges!) itself.

[Source]

Lily Allen Suffers Miscarriage

Unfortunately, 22-year-old British singer Lily Allen, who recently became pregnant, has had a miscarriage and lost her baby. This would have been her first child. Her 37-year-old boyfriend Ed Simons of The Chemical Brothers is also devastated. This is incredibly sad and I can only hope that they are able to recover from their loss soon.

[Source, Source]

Christina Milian Signs With MySpace Label

Toya's World, That Grape Juice, and Concrete Loop have all reported, though I can't seem to find anywhere that can verify it, that singer/actress Christina Milian has signed with a new MySpace record label in affiliation with Interscope Records. I totally support this decision 100% because, in today's music industry, everyone who doesn't sell through the roof is dropped and going the independent, more or less, route works out better for many urban artists. I believe this is the best way Christina can get her music out to the world for us to enjoy!

[Source]

*UPDATED* Beyonce To Perform At Grammys

Despite the writer's strike and speculation that Beyonce, along with all other celebrities, would boycott the awards show because of it, Beyonce is set to perform at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony, which will take place February 10th in Los Angeles. I definitely think the strike has gone on way too long and the writers need to get what they want so that stuff doesn't keep getting completely messed up, shows can come back on the air, movie can continue to be produced, and extremely special events like the 50th anniversary of the world's biggest music awards don't get entirely ruined! In this case, I don't care what the writers want, they just need to respect for one night that this is a celebration of something that has been going on for 50 years now and deserves recognition. Then they can go back to what is probably justified whining. Strike aside, I can't wait to see what Bee has in store. She is one of the best performers out there today. "The Beyonce Experience" DVD, out now, is AMAZING! You should definitely cop that.

UPDATE: People is reporting that Beyonce will be performing a duet with none other than Tina Turner at this year's Grammys!

[Source]

Kelly Rowland ft. Travis McCoy of Gym Class Heroes "Daylight (US Version)" Video Premiere

"Daylight," which features Travis McCoy of rap group Gym Class Heroes, is supposed to be the first single off Kelly Rowland's re-release of her Ms. Kelly album, which was initially released in July '07 and spawned both 2 singles in America, "Like This" featuring Eve and "Ghetto" featuring Snoop Dogg, and another, "Work," internationally. This is the US version because a (crappier) version featuring clips from a French movie the song is featured on the soundtrack of premiered a little while back, but this one is MUCH better. I really like the Ms. Kelly record, so I am looking forward to the re-release and more Kelly Rowland music!

The Caffeine Patch: Alvin And The Chipmunks Sequel News!

The Caffeine Patch, a reference to Disney's 2007 CG release "Meet The Robinsons" (the character to the left), is a section I have to feature news about upcoming animated film releases because they are the best!

Today's tidbit is news about a sequel in-the-works for the recent hit film "Alvin And The Chipmunks," which I LOVE! It is reported that the Chipettes will be featured in the next movie! 6 chipmunks in 1 movie. I don't know if I can't take the cute-/awesomeness!

America's Next Top Model: Cycle 10



The CW (AKA the evil network) recently released photos of the 14(!--thanks writer's strike) finalists for the upcoming 10th cycle of ANTM [above]. I'm not particularly impressed, as Saleisha is my girl(!), but I'll still watch, of course. Btw, Tyra ... I get what you're trying, but you look a little frightening-in-a-bad-way. Cycle 10 premieres February 20th @ 8/7c.

Happy Birthday Aaliyah

January 16th was the birthday of one of the world's gone-too-soon and most-missed shining stars, Aaliyah. She would have been 29. I would like to celebrate her life by sharing with you a few of her best videos:

Try Again

We Need A Resolution (ft. Timbaland)

More Than A Woman

Janet Jackson's "Discipline" Preview

Recently, Def Jam boss L.A. Reid previewed Janet's upcoming album Discipline, due February 26th, in London. The songs played, which are confirmed to be on the album, include:

Tonight
Love, Love, Love
This Can't Be Good
Discipline
Rock With You (which does sample her brother Michael's song of the same name)
Rollercoaster
Greatest Ex Ever

[More Information]

Timbaland ft. Nicole Scherzinger & Keri Hilson "Scream" Video Premiere

"Scream", which features Nicole Scherzinger and Keri Hilson, is the 5th single from Timbaland's album Shock Value, released in 2007. I do rather like the video, mainly because I am really checking for those 2 female newcomers, but I'm not the song's biggest fan. Still, here's to its success, so that Nicole (and Keri, for that matter) might finally get her album out!

Janet Jackson "Discipline" Cover

You are looking at the cover art for the new Janet Jackson album Discipline, which is set to be released on February 26th and features the new single "Feedback." Pure. hotness. This picture is simple, but interesting. Stylish and unique. Basically, it's Janet. She's back!

[Source]

Jennifer Lopez/Manager Part Ways

Jennifer Lopez has reportedly parted ways with her manager, as he "dumped" Lopez after Marc Anthony, her husband, began to "call all the shots." Jennifer's camp, however, insists that she fired him.

I wanted to post this because it is apparent there were problems behind the scenes once J.Lo's latest album, Brave, tanked and word began to spread that Epic, her record label, was interested in dropping her, which is a TOTAL shame because that CD is really good! No one will give it a chance because everyone has read somewhere from someone that it is crap and that is not true! Brave just so happens to be one of her best, if not the best, records so far and is most definitely her best in recent years. People, you should really give the album a try. "Hold It, Don't Drop It," "Do It Well," "Mile In These Shoes," "Wrong When You're Gone," "Brave" ... these songs are HOT!

[Source, Source]

New Janet Jackson Promo Pic

This is a new promotional picture of Janet Jackson featured in the most recent issue of Billboard magazine, the cover of which Jackson is on. Janet is, of course, promoting her new, soon-to-be-released album Discipline, out February 26th, as well as its lead single, a personal favorite of mine, "Feedback." Miss Jackson is looking "fierce" and I can't wait for the new album!

[Source]

Jordin Sparks "Tattoo" Pepsi Smash Video Premiere

This special acoustic version of "Tattoo", Jordin Sparks' first single off her self-titled debut album, released late last year, premiered recently on Yahoo! Pepsi Smash and is an interesting watch for Jordin and American Idol fans alike. It's a whole new approach to performing! She sounds great, as always imo, as I am a HUGE fan & rooted for her throughout Idol!

Celine Dion Televised Concert Announced

"Celine Dion: That's Just The Woman In Me" will be an hour-long presentation of the singer's first concert since ending her 5-year "A New Day..." Las Vegas show, DVD out now (recommended!). Taped January 12th at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, CBS is scheduled to air the event on Friday, February 15th. Dion will perform old hits, as well as songs from her new CD Taking Chances. Guests for the concert include will.i.am and Josh Groban.

[Source, Source]

Mary J. Blige's 2nd Single Confirmed

Mary J. Blige will apparently release "Hurt Again" as her 2nd single off the recently released Growing Pains album. Many people assumed "Work That" would be released, but I think, as great as that might have been ... yet dumb because I'm pretty sure "Just Fine," a similar track, was no "Be Without You," success-wise ... there was no point, as any song featured in any iTunes commercial will sell and promote enough due to that mere fact. However, with the poll recently posted on Blige's official site, it seemed the fans would have more of a choice (or at least more time!) to pick the next single. Personally, as my sidebar might suggest, I believe there are better tracks. I wouldn't expect the powerful album closer "Come To Me (Peace)" to be chosen, at least not at this point in the game, but there are better "BWY Pt. 2"s on the record, (possibly) such as radio-friendly "Stay Down", and songs that are too good to be given that label, such as "Feel Like A Woman" or "Fade Away." In any case, they have chosen.

[Source, Source]

Friday, January 18, 2008

Step Up 2: The Streets Soundtrack Information

Details have emerged regarding the soundtrack to the upcoming movie "Step Up 2: The Streets," out February 5th. The disc includes the #1 hit "Low" by Flo Rida featuring T-Pain, the new tune "Killa" by Cherish featuring Yung Joc, a new version of Trey Songz's "Can't Help But Wait" featuring Plies, a new song from one of the movie's stars, Cassie, and, most interestingly, 2 new jams from Missy Elliott! While one, "Ching-A-Ling", has already leaked, the other, "Shake Your Pom Pom", has yet to see the light of day, and I, for one, would REALLY like to hear it! Missy is one of those artists you can always count on for originality and something hot everytime she puts new music out, so those songs, along with an upcoming album, may just make for a heck of a year for Miss E!

[More Information, Source]

2008 BRIT Award Nominees Announced

I must admit, I don't think there has ever been a time in the past that I paid any attention to this awards show. Nonetheless, this year should be an interesting one ...for Leona Lewis, anyway, so I thought I'd post a few notable nods:

British Female Solo Artist:
Leona Lewis
Kate Nash

British Album:
"Spirit" by Leona Lewis

British Breakthrough Act:
Leona Lewis
Kate Nash

British Single:
"Bleeding Love" by Leona Lewis
"Foundations" by Kate Nash

I would also like to mention (obviously) that I recently discovered Kate Nash during her period as MTV's Artist of the Week and rather liked her genre of music. She has a few nice songs, and her likeness to Lily Allen doesn't hurt.

[More Information, Source]

Daughtry "Feels Like Tonight" Video Premiere

"Feels Like Tonight" is the 4th single from Daughtry's multi-platinum self-titled album, released in 2006. While the video is only slightly interesting for me, the song is probably one of the highlights of the album imo, so I am pleased with the single choice.

Craig David "6 Of 1 Thing" Video Premiere

"6 Of 1 Thing" is Craig David's 2nd single from his recently released (in the UK) Trust Me CD. Both the video and the song are an improvement over the first single, "Hot Stuff (Let's Dance)", though I don't feel like either one deserves any complaint. Being one of the few English artists out there that I like that isn't relevant in the US, I'll take what I can get!

Leona Lewis "Harper's Bazaar UK" Magazine Cover

"The X-Factor" winner and English superstar Leona Lewis covers the UK's February '08 issue of Harper's Bazaar. Living in America, I have yet to see Leona featured on TV or hear her played on the radio, but I am confident that will change soon, if Simon Cowell and the rest of her record company executives have anything to say about it! Even so, I have been paying attention to this amazing vocalist since I discovered her while she was still competing on what is basically the UK's version of "American Idol" via YouTube and I fell in love with her first single "Bleeding Love" the moment I heard it, so I look forward to her American domination! With the US version of her "BL" video shot and March 18th set as the release date this side of the Atlantic for her album Spirit, her path is paved. She looks great on the cover, too.

[Source]

Christina Aguilera Gives Birth + "Save Me From Myself" Video Premiere

On Saturday, January 12, 2008, Christina Aguilera gave birth to her first child named Max Liron Bratman. It was a boy, and he is also the son of Aguilera's husband Jordan Bratman. On the same day, as a treat for her supportive and dedicated fans, Christina posted a very special video for her song "Save Me From Myself" [above], taken from her most recent album Back To Basics, on her official website. In my opinion, Christina looks incredibly beautiful in this new video and I wish her the best! Click HERE to visit the site to watch the video again, read Christina's message, and download the video for free!