Sunday, January 31, 2010

The 2010 Grammys Recap



Michael Jackson Tribute



Pink "Glitter In The Air"



Mary J. Blige & Andrea Bocelli "Bridge Over Troubled Water"



Beyonce - Medley



The Black-Eyed Peas - Medley

The 2010 Grammys were on tonight & they were so-so, which makes for an improvement over last year at least. Of course, the night's big event was the Michael Jackson tribute featuring Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, & Smokey Robinson. They may not honor them with their awards, but the Grammys certainly did a great job choosing very talented vocalists to sing "Earth Song." Despite recycling it from her Funhouse tour (get that DVD already, folks!), Pink awed with her performance, which, I must say, was an excellent & refreshing choice for the Grammys. Mary J. Blige joined Andrea Bocelli on stage for a Haiti tribute, which was amazing. Click HERE for the download link to their studio recording of the song, which benefits Haiti. Beyonce also recycled her "If I Were A Boy"/"You Oughta Know" tour medley, but to lesser effect. Don't get me wrong: Beyonce did a great job on top of having an even better night, but I would've preferred either something new or, honestly, more fitting. Lastly, The Black-Eyed Peas performed their gag-inducing "I Gotta Feeling" after their new single "Imma Be" & were entertaining. Check out the winners below (complete list HERE), which include Beyonce with six, the most for a female performer in one night ever!
  • Beyonce: Song Of The Year ("Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)"), Best Female Pop Vocal Performance ("Halo"), Best Female R&B Vocal Performance ("Single Ladies"), Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance ("At Last"), Best R&B Song ("Single Ladies"), Best Contemporary R&B Album (I Am... Sasha Fierce)
  • The Black-Eyed Peas: Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals ("I Gotta Feeling"), Best Pop Vocal Album (The E.N.D.), Best Short Form Music Video ("Boom Boom Pow")
  • Rihanna & Kanye West: Best Rap/Sung Collaboration ("Run This Town"), Best Rap Song ("Run This Town")
  • India.Arie: Best Urban/Alternative Performance ("Pearls")
  • Imogen Heap: Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical (Ellipse)
  • Carrie Underwood: Best Country Collaboration With Vocals ("I Told You So")
  • Michael Jackson: Lifetime Achievement Award

[Source]

Akon ft. Keri Hilson "Oh Africa" Video Premiere

"Oh Africa" is Akon & Keri Hilson's charity single, which you can download HERE. The song's vibrant video is really fun.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

India.Arie On The Mo'Nique Show



"River Rise"



Interview

The lovely India.Arie was a guest on The Mo'Nique Show recently, where she performed the beautiful "River Rise" off her latest album Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics. She also discussed performing at the BET Honors, which air Monday, February 1st, @ 9/8c. I love this woman!

Janet Jackson "Wonderland" Magazine Cover

Janet Jackson continues to do promo for... um, well, I'm not sure exactly why... with this cover of the February/March issue of Wonderland. It appears that this one can be filed under the 'fierce' category!

[Source]

Akon ft. Keri Hilson "Oh Africa" Behind-The-Scenes

Akon & Keri Hilson have teamed up for the charity single "Oh Africa," which will benefit the less fortunate in Africa. The video, which you can watch the making of above, will premiere during the Grammys, while the single will hit iTunes immediately after the show. Looks good!

Kelly Rowland Performs "When Love Takes Over" On Lopez Tonight



Kelly Rowland & David Guetta performed "When Love Takes Over" again on Lopez Tonight. I really am tired of this song (REALLY tired), but just think of it as more buzz for Kelly preceding her third album!

New Janet Jackson "Why Did I Get Married Too?" Trailer

The theatrical trailer for Janet Jackson's new film "Why Did I Get Married Too?" has surfaced. Tyler Perry's latest looks very promising! I'm looking forward to April 2nd (& a new single... Janet, are you listening?!) already.

Keri Hilson On Rachael Ray

"Knock You Down"

Keri Reveals Her Secret Talent

Keri Hilson was a guest on Rachael Ray recently &, among other things, performed her acoustic version of "Knock You Down" off In A Perfect World.... I think she sounded nice! I certainly wish Miss Keri good luck this Sunday.

Billboard Update

^#1 Album #1 Single^

It only took the "Hope For Haiti Now" compilation two days to sell 171,000 copies, becoming the first digital-exclusive set to ever top the Billboard 200 album chart. With Ke$ha's "Tik Tok" still reigning over the Hot 100 singles chart, The Black-Eyed Peas earned themselves the Digital Gainer status for their next single "Imma Be," which rises 15-11 this week. In addition, Rihanna debuts with a pair of Haiti relief singles: "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)" @ #16 with 131,000 copies sold & her cover of "Redemption Song" @ #81 with 40,000 copies sold.

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Toni Braxton "Make My Heart" & "Hands Tied" Song Premieres



Toni Braxton has premiered two songs off her forthcoming album Pulse (May 4th) via her new official site. Of course, the gorgeous ballad "Hands Tied" has been leaked for some time, but now we know it'll be on the album. The other song, an uptempo titled "Make My Heart," was featured on my list of songs that I want to leak a little while back, so you know I'm excited about it. You should be too though because it's straight fire! Toni can do no wrong. Might I also mention that she looks phenomenal! Anyway, my guess is that Atlantic is testing the reaction to the two tracks to decide which should be Toni's next single. The answer they're looking for? "Make My Heart!"

Usher "Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)" Video Premiere



"Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)" is the first official single lifted from Usher's upcoming album Raymond Vs. Raymond (March 30th). Not going into this as a fan of the song, I wasn't expecting much. While the video isn't spectacular, it did exceed my expectations & does feature some signature Usher moments that offer a little hope to this era. Not only that, but it had me realizing Ursh's vocals on the song are rather impressive. I still don't really like the theme of the song because it seems a little immature for Usher at this point, but I'm not exactly one to talk because "Little Freak" is my jam! Btw, Noémie Lenoir (the "Rush Hour 3" chick!) is the leading lady in the video.

Mariah Carey "Up Out My Face" & "Angels Cry" Video Premieres



Up Out My Face (ft. Nicki Minaj)



Angels Cry (ft. Ne-Yo)

"Up Out My Face" & "Angels Cry" are the two lead singles off Mariah Carey's upcoming album Angels Advocate (March 30th). Mariah's husband Nick Cannon directed both clips & although I like them both, "Up Out My Face" is outstanding! The video blends perfectly well with the tongue-in-cheek style of the song. (Shoutout to Nicki Minaj, the Harajuku Barbie!) Btw, I LOL'ed @ mark 1:23, but DIED @ mark 1:35! Also, keep an eye out for a cameo from the one & only B. Scott. As for "Angels Cry," Mariah looks amazing, but Ne-Yo takes so much away from it all. Not only does he pale in comparison vocally, it's not like they even recorded this together! Anyway, Mariah's adorable lil' pooch Dolomite makes a cameo appearance in the video. Both of these songs are great & if there's absolutely any justice in the world, Mariah will have a pair of hits on her hands come two months(-ish) from now.

Jennifer Lopez To Guest Star On How I Met Your Mother

Like Britney Spears before her, Jennifer Lopez is set to guest star on How I Met Your Mother in March. She will play Annie Appleby, "an outspoken self-help guru who makes it her mission to break caddish Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) of his womanizing ways." Sounds interesting! If I find out the exact air date, I'll be sure to tweet it or mention in on the blog. Don't forget that J.Lo domination (Love? + "The Back-Up Plan") goes down in April!

[Source, Source]

Christina Aguilera "United Nations World Food Programme" Haiti PSA

Christina Aguilera & Muhammad Ali have joined together with the United Nations World Food Programme to help the Haiti earthquake victims in this new public service announcement.

Avril Lavigne "Alice" Song Premiere

Avril Lavigne has recorded the song "Alice" for inclusion on the album Almost Alice, the soundtrack to the movie "Alice In Wonderland," which hits theaters on March 5th, with its accompanying soundtrack dropping three days earlier. While the song isn't perfect, it has oodles more depth than the majority of Avril's last album The Best Damn Thing & has me looking forward to her fourth studio album all-the-more.

Chilli Reality Show Update

Chilli is all set to throw her pride away for "What Chilli Wants." The new VH1 reality show will find the TLC singer looking for love. "What Chilli Wants" premieres on Sunday, March 28th, @ 10/9c. I can't say I'm looking forward to this one as much as I was Fantasia's, but it'll be interesting to see what she's been up to... that is, if we get to.

[Source, Source]

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Monica "Everything To Me" Song Premiere

Forget what you've heard. THIS is the entirety of "Everything To Me," the first single off Monica's upcoming album Still Standing (March 23rd). Incredible, right? I love it now! I really hope Monica (& everybody else for that matter) doesn't push her album back anymore because I need some good new music & I need it now!

Nicole Scherzinger Does Cosmopolitan Spain Magazine

My girl Nicole Scherzinger is featured on the cover of Spain's latest Cosmopolitan issue with a few shots inside as well. Gorgeous! It appears Nicole's been busy working on her long-awaited solo album, so I hope it happens this time. Certain other bloggers have had me ROFL lately, talking about what the talentless, fame-desperate PCD backup dancers have "planned." Hey, at least Nicole CAN sing! And freaking well too!!



Adam Lambert Performs "Strut" On Ellen

Thankfully, Adam Lambert switched things up a bit with a performance of "Strut" for Ellen's birthday on her talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Adam also donated a couple of items to be auctioned off to benefit Haiti. Gotta love him! Adam's debut album For Your Entertainment is out now.

Teairra Mari "NO H8" Campaign

Teairra Mari is the latest to show her support for the NO H8 campaign in this pretty new photo. After delaying her sophomore album At That Point to 2010, Teairra seems to be taking her sweet time getting things rolling with it again. I would rather she not, but if she's cooking up some fire, then I'll live. However, Ms. Mari, just know: All of your leaked material is hot!

[Source]

David Archuleta Covers "Prayer Of The Children" For Haiti



Because he's cool like that, David Archuleta was at the "Hope For Haiti Now" telethon to answer phones & while he was backstage, MTV caught up with him. With the cameras rolling, David Archuleta dedicated a cover of Kurt Bestor's "Prayer Of The Children" to all the kids suffering in Haiti, urging everyone to help out in whatever way possible. So sweet!

Fergie "Cosmopolitan" International Magazine Covers

Romania



Chile

Fergie has landed herself the January cover of Cosmopolitan all over the world. Personally, I prefer the shot being used in Romania, as the Chile cover looks too same-y for her. Nonetheless, the Black-Eyed Pea looks great on both.

Q&A: Vonzell Solomon

It's no secret that Vonzell Solomon is my favorite American Idol contestant of all time. Being the gracious person that she is, the fourth season, third-place finisher agreed to answer a few questions for Bring Da Beat Back as she gears up for the release of her highly anticipated debut album.

Q: Is there any particular memory that you have of your time on American Idol that sticks out to you?

A: Meeting Brandy, someone I've loved & idolized since I was a kid!

Q: What is it like for a former Idol contestant after the show & tour are over as you're trying to forge ahead with your career? Do labels come after you or are you expected to chase them?

A: It's a little bit of both, but you really have to be proactive & go get what you want.

Q: There were rumors a while back that you signed with Dallas Austin's label Rowdy Records. Assuming you aren't with the label now, as you are an independent artist, is there any truth to these rumors? If so, what happened?

A: That was so not true, unfortunately that opportunity never panned out. However I started my own label Melodic Records & I'm releasing an album this year.

Q: I know from personal experience that it's exciting for a fan that got to know & love you to now be some part of your career. What are the main advantages of being an independent artist for you?

A: The main advantage of being an independent artist is having creative control. Because I'm a songwriter this means a lot to me, & getting fans involved in a way that you develop personal relationships with them, through my street team I'm able to that.

Q: Does your album have a title yet? If not, are there any ideas you have that you might want to throw out there?

A: I don't have a title for the album yet, however I'll be releasing singles soon, so it will most likely be the name of the most popular single.

Q: Does your album have a release date? If not, is there a certain time period you are aiming for?

A: I don't have a release date yet, but hopefully this summer/fall.

Q: When your album is released, how will it be distributed (nationally, digitally, etc.)?

A: It will be distributed internationally.

Q: When will your single be released? Will fans be able to purchase it anywhere digitally?

A: My single "Dirt Bag" will be released late February/early March & it will be available digitally (see: iTunes).

Q: You were phenomenal in Todrick Hall's "OZ the Musical" last year. What have been your favorite experiences since Idol?

A: I've had so many great experiences since Idol; one of my favorites is being on tour as a spokesperson for the United States Postal Service.

Q: Looking towards the future, do you have any goals & ambitions? Any events coming up?

A: Just came off a small tour, so right now I'm promoting & gearing up for the release of my new single "Dirt Bag."

Click the banner above to visit Vonzell Solomon's official site & listen to a snippet of her first single "Dirt Bag!"

Join her street team HERE

Twitter MySpace Facebook

Whitney Houston "Nothing But Love" Tour Promo Pic

Complete with fabulous new promotional photo, Whitney Houston has announced that she is set to embark on her first world tour in over a decade. The "Nothing But Love" tour begins in February in South Korea & ends in June in Finland. See all the dates HERE. (No US dates?!) Her platinum comeback album I Look To You that the tour will support is available now.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Angels & Airwaves "Love" Update

As the free release of Angels & Airwaves' third album Love on Valentine's Day approaches, there are a few details you need to know. While the 10-song set will be available digitally on February 14th, a deluxe version of Love featuring 30 minutes of bonus material (supposedly all instrumental) is set to be released at a TBA later date for a cost of around $5-10, a small & worthwhile price to pay, I assure you. Additionally, the "Love" film, for which the album of the same name will effectively serve as the soundtrack, will be released in select theaters later this year. Personally, since nothing good ever comes anywhere near me, I am hoping for a DVD release of the movie sooner than later, but right now, it's all about the Love album--in just 19 days! And now, to contradict myself, here's the final trailer for the film in case you haven't seen it & are curious:

Ciara & Mary J. Blige On Board Second Haiti Telethon

Ciara & Mary J. Blige are among a host of artists who will participate in "S.O.S. Saving OurSelves: Help For Haiti," a three-hour telethon hosted by Queen Latifah & Diddy that will air live on Friday, February 5th, @ 8/7c from Miami. The telethon will air on BET, MTV, VH1, & Centric. Celebrities have really been showing their charitable sides recently & it is nice to see.

[Source, Source]

Katharine McPhee Covers "You Are" On An Evening Of Stars: Tribute To Lionel Richie

For An Evening Of Stars: Tribute To Lionel Richie, Katharine McPhee honored the man of the hour by covering his "You Are." I don't know the song myself, but Kat never sounds bad. ... Actually, it didn't work as well on her, but I'm a fan of those almost-autotune mics they use sometimes. Anyway, Katharine's sophomore album Unbroken is out now.

Mariah Carey & Leona Lewis Join Haiti Charity Single

Mariah Carey & Leona Lewis are among the artists who have signed on to participate in the Simon Cowell-led charity single for Haiti. The lineup, which also includes Susan Boyle, Alexandra Burke, Cheryl Cole, JLS, Mika, James Morrison, James Blunt, She-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, & Rod Stewart, will cover the R.E.M. song "Everybody Hurts." Mr. Cowell plans to release the single "next Sunday" (which, due to when the announcement was issued, is unclear in whether that refers to the last Sunday in January or the first one in February). One look at those involved tells you that this is obviously being catered more to the UK audience, but either way, it's still for a good cause!

[Source, Source]

Jordin Sparks Performs National Anthem On AFC Championship


In her typical flawless fashion, Jordin Sparks sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the AFC Championship football game on Sunday. This girl has got that anthem down! Be sure to pick up her second album Battlefield if you get a chance.

Kelly Rowland Album Update

There's no telling if Kelly Rowland's third solo album will be dropping via her rumored new label Universal Motown or not yet, but she is certainly working on it. The tentatively titled Journey is being planned for release in April or May... however, out of 25 recorded songs, Kelly supposedly likes only six, so there's really no telling when we'll get the album, should her opinion hold any actual weight. Some producers Kelly has worked with whose names are only now emerging (& who might have produced the select few tracks mentioned above) include Swizz Beatz, Jermaine Dupri, Bryan-Michael Cox, Cory Bold, Stereotypes, & The Outsyders (Britney Spears' "Womanizer"). Whatever the circumstances, I just wish Kelly could get the behind-the-scenes business in order ASAP because I want this album & in my experience, she's not one of those artists that records a buttload of crappy material anyway.

[Source]

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Alicia Keys On Friday Night With Jonathan Ross



"Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart"



Interview

Alicia Keys visited Friday Night With Jonathan Ross in the UK, which seems to be having its own late-night TV debacle, to perform the latest single off The Element Of Freedom & do some couch time for an interview. Their chat was entertaining enough, but I'm not gonna pretend that the performance did anything for me because, well, I just don't love Alicia like that. One word of advice for her that I think would vastly improve her live showings, especially on this song: Get on top of that beat!

OneRepublic "Waking Up" Track-By-Track Commentary


OneRepublic has taken the time to sit down & discuss their awesome sophomore effort Waking Up track-by-track. I always find these kinds of things very interesting!

The 2010 NRJ Music Awards Recap



Rihanna "Russian Roulette"



Kelly Rowland & David Guetta "When Love Takes Over"



The Black-Eyed Peas "Meet Me Halfway"



The Black-Eyed Peas "I Gotta Feeling"

France's 2010 NRJ Music Awards took us back to 2009 in the most deja vu-inducing awards show in recent memory. (Thank you for my current headache, David Guetta.) Rihanna performed & also walked away with the Best International Female award, while Kelly Rowland joined Mr. Guetta to perform the most performed song of all time. Meanwhile, The Black-Eyed Peas performed a pair of their annoying hits, one of which ("I Gotta Feeling") received the award for Best International Song. Beyonce was also there to receive an honorary award... & it's a miracle she survived the show to get it. You can view the rest of the winners HERE (in French).

[Source]

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Rihanna On Skavlan



"Russian Roulette"



Interview

Rihanna has also been the little world traveler herself lately with a recent trip to Norway to appear on Skavlan, where she performed the first single lifted from her new album Rated R & sat down for a lengthy interview (in English) with the show's host.

Sarah McLachlan "One Dream" Video Premiere

"One Dream" is Sarah McLachlan's new single for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The video is a simple one & features Olympic-themed visuals throughout. As a Canadian, I'm sure Sarah feels proud to be representing her country with this lovely song.

Melanie Fiona Performs "Monday Morning" On Benissimo

Melanie Fiona recently made her way to Switzerland, where she performed "Monday Morning" off her debut album The Bridge & gave an interview on Benissimo. The ever-charming Melanie did a fine job!

Syesha Mercado Performs "Dreamgirls" In Chicago

Syesha Mercado & her fellow "Dreamgirls" castmates are currently in Chicago on the play's national tour. There, they stopped by the local ABC affiliate to promote the show & sing a bit of the title song. Nice job, ladies. Syesha, I hope you're putting a little work in on that album!

Hope For Haiti Now Performance Highlights



Christina Aguilera "Lift Me Up"



Jennifer Hudson "Let It Be" (The Beatles Cover)



Mary J. Blige "Hard Times Come Again No More"



Beyonce "Halo"



Rihanna, Jay-Z, & U2's Bono & The Edge "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)"



Alicia Keys "Prelude To A Kiss"

The stars aligned last night for "Hope For Haiti Now" to benefit the earthquake victims of Haiti. Christina Aguilera debuted a beautiful new ballad, Jennifer Hudson performed the heck out of a Beatles song, Mary J. Blige belted a Civil War-era tune, Beyonce sang a heartfelt version of her own hit, Alicia Keys got passionate on one of her own as well, & Rihanna joined Jay-Z & U2's Bono & The Edge for "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)," which was written especially for this telethon. The studio version of their collaboration is available to download HERE & all the proceeds will go towards Haiti relief.

Melanie Fiona Sings "Redemption Song" For Haiti

Apparently, Melanie Fiona felt the spirit of "Hope For Haiti Now" & decided to help out as best she could, being that she's sick at the moment, by singing her own version of "Redemption Song." Putting those powerful pipes to good use!

Friday, January 22, 2010

"Celine: Through The Eyes Of The World" Trailer & Poster


Celine Dion is preparing to release "Celine: Through The Eyes Of The World" theatrically in February. The film will chronicle the singer's Taking Chances world tour. Personally, I can't wait to see it!

[Source]

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Craig David "One More Lie (Standing In The Shadows)" Video Premiere

"One More Lie (Standing In The Shadows)" is the first single lifted from Craig David's upcoming fifth album Signed Sealed Delivered. As suggested by its title, the album will be a Motown remakes set... oh, how far they fall. Honestly, I don't like any of the above. I apologize if this contradicts anything I may have said recently, but I've stopped trying: I'm now officially over this dance music craze. It all just sounds unoriginal & annoying, & it's sucking the soul right out of my favorite singers!

[Source]

Leona Lewis On Radio 1 Live Lounge

"Stop Crying Your Heart Out"

"I Got You"

Interview (Pt. 1)

Interview (Pt. 2)

Leona Lewis returned to where she first performed her chart-topping cover "Run," Radio 1 Live Lounge, to sing another cover from the UK version of her second album Echo, perform her new single, & sit down for an interview. The singing was nice on Leona's part, but those back-up singers on "I Got You" need to cool it! I enjoyed the interview, which covered a broad range of topics... Jedward + Vanilla Ice? What is this I hear?! Note: The videos aren't videos--they're just audio--but you can still enjoy them!

Billboard Update

^#1 Album #1 Single^

Vampire Weekend's Contra tops this week's Billboard 200 album chart, while Ke$ha stays atop the Hot 100 singles chart with "Tik Tok." Nothing exciting this week.

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Mario "Ooh Baby" Video Premiere

"Ooh Baby" is the third single off Mario's fourth album D.N.A. As you can see, J Records, being the fine label that they are, considering their wonderful handling of, say, Monica, Fantasia, &, oh yeah, Mario's careers, gave Mr. Barrett a ridiculously large budget for this video. O_o Now, this is a hot song, so good on Mario for getting a (probably personally financed) video out for it at all, but above all else, I am disappointed. Mario, you're better than this. And no, what I'm referring to has nothing to do with the budget.

Michael Jackson 3D Tribute To Be Staged At Grammys

This year's Grammys are all set to give Michael Jackson a tribute fit for the King of Pop. They will be broadcasting a 3D clip set to Michael's hit "Earth Song" that was created for use in his "This Is It" concert tour. Accompanying the video will be Usher, Celine Dion, Carrie Underwood, Smokey Robinson, & Jennifer Hudson (who was previously speculated to be a performer & now we know in what way). It is noted that although part of this clip was shown in the "This Is It" film, the entire video will be broadcast in 3D at the Grammys. If you don't have any 3D glasses, you can pick some up before the show at your local Target. In addition, Jackson will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the ceremony. The 2010 Grammys air Sunday, January 31st, @ 8/7c!

[Source, Source]

Rihanna Covers "Redemption Song" On Oprah



During Oprah's episode dedicated to Haiti relief, Rihanna covered Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" to help support those devastated by the tragedy. I don't know the original, but I think RiRi sounded good. To download Rihanna's version of "Redemption Song," click on the cover art below:



Beyonce Does Allure Magazine

Beyonce has the cover of & a full spread in Allure's latest issue. I like, or it appears at least, her personality when she has curly hair! Looking fierce, Sasha Fierce, indeed.



Keri Hilson Visits Billboard



"Knock You Down"



Interview

Keri Hilson recently stopped by the Billboard headquarters to discuss her Grammy nominations. While she was there, they had her perform an acoustic version of her hit single "Knock You Down" off her debut album In A Perfect World.... Keri did a very good job with the performance. I also think that of the many hairstyles she's rocked over the past year or so, this is one of the better ones.

Christina Aguilera, Others On Board "Hope For Haiti Now"

To benefit the victims of the tragic earthquake in Haiti, numerous stars have signed on to "Hope For Haiti Now," a telethon that will air on all major US networks & around the world this Friday night @ 8/7c. Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, & Mary J. Blige are set to perform, while Beyonce & Rihanna will join Jay-Z & U2's Bono & The Edge for a special collaboration. All of the night's performances will be available for download on iTunes the following day. This special will no doubt be a worthwhile watch while also helping an important cause.

[Source, Source]

Adam Lambert On Oprah



"If I Had You"



"Whataya Want From Me"



Interview (Pt. 1)



Interview (Pt. 2)



Interview (Pt. 3)



Interview (Pt. 4)



Interview (Web Exclusive)

Adam Lambert finally made his visit to Oprah's studio, where he performed his latest single "Whataya Want From Me" & sat down for an interview for the show, performed For Your Entertainment cut "If I Had You" for her website, & gave a quick backstage interview as well. The whole thing, which had Adam discussing life after Idol, meeting Madonna, & Simon leaving Idol, really was an interesting watch, mainly because the two of them are pretty great together.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Keri Hilson ft. Akon "Change Me" Video Premiere



"Change Me," featuring Akon, is the sixth single lifted from Keri Hilson's debut album In A Perfect World.... A day late & a dollar short, it appears Keri's label may have actually scrapped this single in favor of her forthcoming sophomore album, but not before they shot a video for it. Still, why "Change Me?" I mean, not only could it have been "Mic Check" (in a perfect world, that is...pun intended), but, like, anything else! Of course, I would say "Get Your Money Up," but with Keyshia... ya know. Ugh, I mean, Akon's YELLING at us..! Whatever. The video's cool I guess. Who woulda guessed Keri'd get SIX videos for IAPW?! On to the next one...

Kelly Rowland's Derek Blanks Alter-Ego Shot & Photoshoot

First Michelle follows in Kelly's footsteps, now Kelly Rowland has taken a page from her former DC3 groupmate & participated in photographer Derek Blanks' alter-ego series as well as done an entire photoshoot with him. I reeeally like the Rosie The Riveter vs. pin-up girl concept! Kelly looks nice throughout the rest of the shoot as well. We're hearing tons of things about her upcoming third solo album, but no label deal has been confirmed as of yet. I certainly hope Ms. Rowland can find herself a supportive team that truly has her back because I know she's gonna bring it material-wise!

















Jennifer Lopez Hosts Lopez Tonight

Jennifer Lopez: Stand-Up Comedienne? I'm thinking not, but nevertheless, the more famous (her words, not mine! lol) Lopez took over for George Lopez on his late-night talk show Lopez Tonight recently to do the opening monologue. At least she enjoyed herself! The audience seemed to be slightly happy to see her too. Anyway, J.Lo will be releasing her new album Love? & movie "The Back-Up Plan" in April... & yes, people, please support the poor woman's latest single "Louboutins"...

Ruben Studdard ft. Rick Ross "Don't Make 'Em Like U No More" Song Premiere


For the second single off his fourth album Love IS, Ruben Studdard (thankfully, for exposure's sake) gets a little help from Rick Ross on the single version of "Don't Make 'Em Like U No More." I must say, although I'm not a Rick Ross fan, it did make me take notice of the song! You can purchase it (as well as a remix) right HERE.

Adam Lambert Haiti PSA

Adam Lambert is helping out the Haiti relief efforts of The Red Cross & Entertainment Tonight by filming this public service announcement.

2010 BRIT Award Nominees Announced

For what are essentially the British Grammys this year, Lily Allen is among the leaders in nominations with three. Leona Lewis (British Female Solo Artist), Rihanna (International Female Solo Artist), & The Black-Eyed Peas (International Album) also grabbed a nod each. You can view all the nominees HERE. Winners will be announced next month.

[Source]

Katharine McPhee Appears On The Biggest Loser

Katharine McPhee visited the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank in support of The Biggest Loser's Pound For Pound Challenge, which pledges to donate a pound of food to the hungry for every pound Americans lose, on Tuesday's show. I actually watch the show & to see Kat pop up on it in support of this cause was very cool. Now is definitely a time to be thankful for your blessings! Katharine's sophomore album Unbroken is out now.

Monday, January 18, 2010

Usher "More" Video Premieres



The "A" Team Version



The Killer "B's" Version

Usher teamed with Body By Milk to give aspiring teenage directors the chance to shoot a video for his new song "More." The two teams came up with these two videos for the song, which will likely appear on Ursh's upcoming album Raymond Vs. Raymond (March 2nd) & was recently featured in an NBA ad campaign, but probably isn't a single, at least at this point in time. Trying not to concentrate on the obviously low budget given to these projects, both videos have unoriginal concepts that were poorly executed imo & have little to do with the song itself. Nevertheless, I still think it was cool for Usher to do provide this opportunity.

Bring Da Beat Back's 2nd Anniversary!

Today marks the two-year anniversary of Bring Da Beat Back! I've really enjoyed blogging these last two years about the best music out there & I plan on continuing strong into year three!

Sunday, January 17, 2010

2010 Grammys Update

10-time nominee Beyonce has a fancy poster promoting this year's Grammys all to herself. In addition to (hopefully) seeing her walk away with numerous awards on January 31st, you can expect a performance from Pink during the show as well! The show airs in two weeks @ 8/7c on CBS.

[Source]