Thursday, September 30, 2010

Preview David Archuleta's "The Other Side Of Down" (Pt. 5)


In our penultimate preview of David Archuleta's forthcoming sophomore album The Other Side Of Down (October 5th), he discusses "Good Place" & "Complain". Sparknotes: David's in a "good place" & he can't "complain." (lol) If you like what you hear, The Other Side Of Down is currently streaming on AOL Music!

Jessica Mauboy "Get 'Em Girls" Update

More details have emerged regarding Jessica Mauboy's upcoming sophomore album Get 'Em Girls (November 5th). We already know who the Australian singer collaborated with, but now we know on what songs. Ludacris will be featured on the Brian Kennedy-produced club banger "Saturday Night". (Jessica was actually unhappy with Luda's initial rap, so she had him re-record it!) Iyaz will assist Jessica on "Like This", which she wrote herself. Jay Sean is included on "What Happened To Us?", a ballad. In addition, previously announced producer Harvey Mason Jr. did both "Fight For You" & "Here For Me" for the singer. Newly announced collaborators include Claude Kelly, who wrote the uptempo "Maze"; Cri$tyle, who penned "Foreign"; Chuck Harmony (Fantasia's "Bittersweet"), who produced "Scariest Part"; & Jazze Pha, the man behind "Handle It". Another song set for inclusion on the album is "Can Anybody Tell Me?" Brian Kennedy, Claude Kelly, Cri$tyle, oh my! I can't wait for this album!

[Source]

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Ciara "Speechless" Video Premiere

"Speechless" is one of two new singles off Ciara's upcoming album Basic Instinct (2015 November 30th). I don't know about the ladies, but fellas, couldn't you watch this all day long?! As Pharrell would say, "Yessir!" This should hold me over nicely until "Gimmie Dat" hits..!

Rihanna "Loud" Update

A listening party for Rihanna's forthcoming album Loud (November 16th) was recently held & the details are out! Some of the tracks that will be featured on Loud include second single "What's My Name?", the Nicki Minaj-assisted "Raining Men", likely future single "Cheers" (which samples Avril Lavigne's "I'm With You"), &, yes, "Who's That Chick", for which a second video has supposedly been shot. Others are "S&M", ballads "Fading Away" & "California King (Bed)", & "Man Down" (which sounds like a rip-off of Jazmine Sullivan's "Call Me Guilty"). In addition, Drake recently revealed having recorded a song with RiRi. Nicki Minaj features are always a plus & that Avril sample sounds odd, yet interesting. We shall see!

[Source, Source, Source]

Christina Aguilera "Royal Desire" Commercial

Christina Aguilera shows you how to "feel like a queen" in the TV spot for her latest fragrance Royal Desire. On the music front, the soundtrack to her upcoming film "Burlesque" comes out on November 16th, followed by the movie itself on November 24th.

New Tiffany Evans Promo Pic

Tiffany Evans is ready to take the world by storm with her new mature look & her sophomore album, possibly called Ms. Tiffany, which is set to be released next year. Along with this new promotional photo today dropped her new single, a ballad, which will go nowhere (I hope I'm wrong), but is very nice:

I'll Be There

N.E.R.D. Performs "Hypnotize You" On Letterman


N.E.R.D. premiered their new single "Hypnotize You" with a weird performance on The Late Show With David Letterman. The group's upcoming album Nothing drops November 2nd.

Keyshia Cole Collaborates With Faith Evans

Keyshia Cole is slowly making her way back to the spotlight with a feature on Faith Evans' forthcoming album Something About Faith (October 5th). Their collaboration is titled "Can't Stay Away":


Faith is taking the indie route this time around, so it was cool for Keyshia to show her support, although I'm sure it was a privilege for her to sing with Faith as well. I like both of them, so I enjoyed their collabo.

Janelle Monae Performs "Tightrope" On Dancing With The Stars


Janelle Monae gave her fiiierce (sorry, I watched Top Model earlier...) performance of "Tightrope" off her debut album The ArchAndroid on the Dancing With The Stars results show this week. What awesome exposure!

Preview David Archuleta's "The Other Side Of Down" (Pt. 4)


David Archuleta's entire new album The Other Side Of Down may be online, but that just makes hearing the meaning behind each song all the more interesting! In the fourth preview of his October 5th release, David discusses "Parachutes & Airplanes" & "Look Around", a pair of mighty fine tracks. In fact, they're from the second half of the album, which is >>>. *Kanye shrug*

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Rihanna "Loud" Cover

Check out the cover of Rihanna's upcoming fifth album Loud (November 16th). It'd be great if it weren't for an album called Loud.

[Source]

Kelis "Scream" Video Premiere

"Scream" is the third single off Kelis' latest album Flesh Tone. I love that they keep giving her video $ even though she hasn't shifted any units! I love the jogging suit she's wearing with the flesh painted on it that is just like what I've no doubt was originally the cover for her new album! I love this video & I love this woman! I can't wait to see Lady Gaga wearing half this stuff next month! Oh, & there's apparently going to be a 3D version of this video too, so keep an eye out for that.

The Black-Eyed Peas "The Beginning" Update

Because I can't think of an album I'd rather have to close out 2010, it brings me immense amounts of joy to report to you that The Black-Eyed Peas' next album The Beginning has received a release date. On November 30th, you will be able to own the 12-track set, with two sure-to-be-future-smashes produced by David Guetta, three produced by will.i.am, & four by DJ Ammo, who previously remixed their hit "Boom Boom Pow". Ya know, because who needs a new Brandy record when you still can't get "I Gotta Feeling" outta your head?

[Source]

Brandy On Dancing With The Stars: Week 2


On her second week on Dancing With The Stars, Brandy danced an underrated Jive & received a score of 21, but still managed to make it through to next week! She looks like she's having so much fun out there, which I like to see.

Fallon & Felisha "Lights Out" Song Premiere


The twins from the now-defunct (for sure) Cherish have finally settled on going by their names Fallon & Felisha, & have just released a new single called "Lights Out". It shouldn't surprise anyone that their sound has shifted to a more dance-influenced one, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing in this case. As was the case with Cherish, the King sisters are practically incapable of recording a bad song--even if it was just the same song over & over again--& this new sound doesn't change that. If you'd like to purchase "Lights Out", please click HERE.

Monday, September 27, 2010

Listen To David Archuleta's "The Other Side Of Down"

David Archuleta's upcoming sophomore album The Other Side Of Down (October 5th) is streaming in full HERE. Good stuff! I'll have a full review up soon.

Nicki Minaj & Will.I.Am "Check It Out" Behind-The-Scenes


Check out Nicki Minaj & will.i.am on the set of the anime-inspired video for their single "Check It Out" off Nicki's forthcoming debut album Pink Friday (November 23rd). The green screen may not give us a huge indication of what the final video will look like, but I'm glad we're getting a video!

Jazmine Sullivan "Love Me Back" Tracklisting

Jazmine Sullivan is about to save my life with the release of her sophomore album Love Me Back on November 2nd. She recently revealed the tracklisting for the set:

1. Holding You Down (Goini In Circles)
2. 10 Seconds
3. Good Enough
4. Don't Make Me Wait
5. Love You Long Time
6. Redemption
7. Excuse Me
8. U Get On My Nerves
9. Stuttering
10. Famous
11. Luv Back

In a world of disappointments, Jazmine brings me so much joy. Speaking of which, take a listen to her second single below:

10 Seconds

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Ciara "Basic Instinct" Webisode #2

Ciara heads to Spain in the second webisode promoting her forthcoming album Basic Instinct (November 2nd). I'm still pissed the album isn't dropping next Tuesday. I really coulda used that.

Jennifer Lopez "Love & Glamour" Commercial

Jennifer Lopez has premiered the old Hollywood-themed commercial for her latest fragrance Love & Glamour. Oh, the drama!

N.E.R.D. "Nothing" Cover

N.E.R.D. has revealed the cover for their upcoming album Nothing (November 2nd). Whataya know? The album IS dropping sometime this decade!

[Source]

Jennifer Hudson, Estelle, & Melanie Fiona Perform With John Legend & The Roots On YouTube



Jennifer Hudson & John Legend "Be Grateful"



Estelle & The Roots "You Got Me"



Melanie Fiona, John Legend, The Roots, & Common "Wake Up Everybody"

YouTube, VEVO, & American Express partnered up to stream John Legend & The Roots in concert online, & they were joined by multiple guests, including Jennifer Hudson, Estelle, & Melanie Fiona. While Melanie, sounding fabulous, sang the lead single off their new album Wake Up! again, Jennifer brought the house down with a Walter Hawkins cover & Estelle filled in for Erykah Badu on a Roots tune.

Shontelle "Perfect Nightmare" Video Preview

Check out this teaser for Shontelle's "Perfect Nightmare" video, which is the second single off her new album No Gravity, which is a very solid effort & welcome improvement over her debut. The full video is set to premiere on October 1st.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Beyonce Album Update

Beyonce is now back at work recording her fourth solo album, but just cause she's not talking about it doesn't mean everybody & their mama that's been working with her isn't! Her friend Alicia Keys' hubby Swizz Beatz discussed his recent sessions with the Grammy winner & how they're looking for the right sound for this record. Also, you have "Irreplaceable" writer Ne-Yo talking about working with Beyonce... & how she "knows exactly what she wants to do" this time around O_o , so make of that what you will. Other producers, such as Sean Garrett & Jim Jonsin, claim to have sessions scheduled with the singer in the near future, so we'll have to wait & see how those turn out. I'm glad to hear that Beyonce is back in the studio--I know that anything she comes with will be good. The more I think about it though, the more I'm kinda glad to see Sasha Fierce go because heading in one solid direction seems to fit her a little better than having a bipolar record.

[Source]

Janelle Monae Performs "Cold War" On Last Call With Carson Daly


Janelle Monae performed "Cold War" off her debut album The ArchAndroid at a taping for Last Call With Carson Daly. I just wish she got into her performances.

Jessica Mauboy ft. Snoop Dogg "Get 'Em Girls" Behind-The-Scenes

Jessica Mauboy takes us behind the scenes of the video shoot for her Snoop Dogg-assisted new single "Get 'Em Girls", the first off her new album of the same name, due in November in Australia. It's like... she doesn't have an accent, then she does. It's blowing my mind!

Melanie Fiona, John Legend, The Roots, & Common Perform "Wake Up Everybody" On GMA


Melanie Fiona joined John Legend, The Roots, & fellow featured artist Common onstage at Good Morning America to perform their single "Wake Up Everybody" off John & The Roots' new album Wake Up! Not bad, but not really my cup of tea.

New Mariah Carey Promo Pic

Mariah Carey & her pooch ChaCha bring a little (early) Christmas cheer in this new promotional photo for her forthcoming holiday album Merry Christmas II You (November 2nd). First single "Oh Santa" will be available on iTunes October 12th!

Carrie Underwood "Mama's Song" Video Premiere

"Mama's Song" is the fourth single off Carrie Underwood's third album Play On. The video stars Carrie's mom, features a cameo by her husband Mike Fisher, & basically plays out the lyrics of the song. It's too bad "Undo It" couldn't have gotten a half-decent video too.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Nicki Minaj Collaborates With Lil' Wayne

...Shocker, I know. Nicki Minaj is featured on the hook of two tracks on Lil' Wayne's forthcoming album I Am Not A Human Being (digital, September 27th; physical, October 12th). She appears alongside her Young Money cohorts on "YM Salute":



At least we get a verse on that one, unlike "What's Wrong With Them", which has Wayne doing all the rapping. Listen below:



Pink Friday = November 23rd

Keri Hilson "Breaking Point" Video Premiere


"Breaking Point" is the first single off Keri Hilson's upcoming sophomore album No Boys Allowed. I love the attitude on the track & the video matches really well! You get it, Miss Keri Baby!

Keyshia Cole Album Update

Keyshia Cole may have been keeping a pretty low profile since giving birth to her first child, but that's all about to change--which we know, thanks, of course, to Twitter! The singer has been very open since joining the social networking site less than a month ago, letting fans know that her fourth album Keyshia is set to drop in December. She also posted a photo of herself working with Pharrell on the album in the studio recently. And, remember that Tank collaboration she recorded? Well, it's titled "Tired Of Doing Me"... very interesting! Keyshia Cole's music gives me sooo much life, so the thought of getting new music from her this year, especially when the R&B market is sooo dry right now = happy me!

[Source, Source]

India.Arie & Santana Perform "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" On Lopez Tonight


India.Arie & Santana gave another performance of their collaboration "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" recently on Lopez Tonight. It's good to see her around again!

Billboard Update

^#1 Album #1 Single^

Linkin Park is on top of the Billboard 200 album chart this week with A Thousand Suns. Marques Houston's Mattress Music debuts on the chart @ #71. The repulsive Bruno Mars sits atop this week's Hot 100 singles chart with "Just The Way You Are", while Rihanna's "Only Girl (In The World)" jumps 75-3 following first-week digital sales of 249,000 copies.

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Estelle On Rising Icons


Estelle was also recently featured on BET's series Rising Icons, where she performed "1980" (off her first album The 18th Day... which I've never heard), "Fall In Love", "Freak", & "American Boy" (+ a lil' "No Substitute Love") cut between interview footage & other stuff. Definitely a worthwhile watch, I just wish they didn't run all over the performances so much. Wonder when her All Of Me record's gonna drop...

Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler Join American Idol Judges Panel

Jennifer Lopez & Steven Tyler have (finally) been officially announced as the new judges on American Idol. Following the departures of Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres, & Kara DioGuardi, the pair will join sole returning judge Randy Jackson on the panel for the show's tenth season. However, the judges panel isn't the only place Idol will see changes this season. Probably the most exciting revelation is that Interscope head Jimmy Iovine (the fifth guy in the photo below) will be the contestants' in-house mentor. Although Iovine will take the place of weekly guest mentors, he will bring in producers like Timbaland to coach the contestants. Also, there won't be any more genre-specific themes. It's additionally worth noting that Jennifer now has a first look deal with FOX that allows her to develop film & TV projects for them. I think this deal is good for J.Lo (I've already posted a more lengthy opinion about her new gig) & it sounds like having their original executive producer Nigel Lythgoe back is gonna work out great for the show! Ever since it was announced that the music group that'll be signing the Idols from now on was changed from Sony to Universal, I've been saying that Jimmy Iovine would be the best possible replacement for Simon & the decision they've made might just be even better re: the prospect of finding/nurturing talented singers this season, as Jimmy Iovine runs an excellent label. I almost can't believe it after last season, but I'm actually excited about the new season of Idol--these fresh new changes came just in time!

[Source]

Santana ft. India.Arie "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" Video Premiere

"While My Guitar Gently Weeps", featuring India.Arie, is the lead single lifted from Santana's new album Guitar Heaven. Wai--I can feel it... yup. Here comes Voyage To India!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

The Caffeine Patch: New Megamind Poster

Here we have the final poster for "Megamind", which lands in theaters in 3D on November 5th. Cool!

[Source]

N.E.R.D. On Walmart Soundcheck Risers



"Hot & Fun" & "Party People"



"Lapdance", "Everyone Nose", "Spaz", & "Sooner Or Later"



Interview

N.E.R.D. performed a number of their hits at a show in Brooklyn for Walmart Soundcheck Risers. "Lapdance" is hot, the rock-tinged stuff from Seeing Sounds is hot... but the amount of life I get from the stuff off their forthcoming album Nothing, which currently has a tentative release date of somewhere in 2020, is pretty much perfectly described by the album's title itself.

Estelle Collaborates With Gucci Mane

Not only did Nicki Minaj contribute to Gucci Mane's new album The Appeal: Georgia's Most Wanted (September 28th), but Estelle is also featured on the track "Grown Man":



I personally think she sounds phenomenal on the hook & that her & Gucci sound great together! Sure wish we had a timeframe on her new album All Of Me though...

[Source]

Preview David Archuleta's "The Other Side Of Down" (Pt. 3)


David Archuleta discusses "Who I Am" & "Falling Stars" following snippets of the tracks off his second album The Other Side Of Down (October 5th) in the third preview for his upcoming disc. Soundin' good there, David!

Vonzell Solomon Joins "Burn The Floor" National Tour

Vonzell Solomon has signed on to be the female vocalist for the national tour of "Burn The Floor", "Broadway's Latin & Ballroom dance spectacular," beginning October 12th in San Diego. To find out more about the show, which features multiple So You Think You Can Dance alumni, & to see a full list of tour dates, click HERE. This is a very exciting opportunity for Vonzell & I can't wait to see the "dazzling" (The New York Times) dancing set to her incredible voice!

Love Vonzell's voice? In the New York area? Check our girl out in the play "He Who Findeth A Good Wife, Findeth A Good Thing" on October 22nd & 23rd!

[Source, Source]

India.Arie & Santana Perform "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" On Dancing With The Stars

India.Arie joined Santana for another fabulous performance of their collaboration "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" on the first Dancing With The Stars results show of the season.

Brandy On Dancing With The Stars: Week 1


For her first showing on Dancing With The Stars, Brandy, the fifth celeb worth following in five seasons, danced the Viennese Waltz (the same dance that Nicole did during her first week..!). With her brother Ray J, daughter Sy'rai, & momma Sonja looking on, Bran scored an excellent 23 & made it through the first elimination! Good luck on a successful season, Brandy--& don't let Maks distract you too much! ;)

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Jazmine Sullivan "Love Me Back" Cover

Rather than 'busting the windows out his car,' Jazmine Sullivan simply chills next to it on the cover of her upcoming sophomore album Love Me Back (November 2nd). I think she looks nice & I NEED this album in my life(!)... & with this + Ciara + Mariah + "Toy Story 3", November 2nd is currently set to be the most amazing day ever!

[Source]

Rihanna "Doritos" Ad & Commercial

Not only is Rihanna the "Only Girl (In The World)", but she looks to be taking it over in this new ad for Doritos. The singer is starring in the brand's "Late Night" campaign, for which the leaked "Who's That Chick" video was shot. Check them out trying to keep the mystery intact below:



P.S. This is my 1,000th post of the year!

*UPDATED* Mariah Carey "Merry Christmas II You" Cover + More

Behold, the cover of Mariah Carey's forthcoming Christmas album Merry Christmas II You (November 2nd), the sequel to her 1994 classic Merry Christmas. Cheap-looking plastic snowman aside, I love it! Along with the cover, new details about the project have emerged. Although the number of new tracks set to appear has decreased from six to four (all of which were written by Mariah), it has been revealed that Mariah has actually re-recorded her smash holiday hit "All I Want For Christmas Is You" for the album! Also, the first single lifted from the set will be an original song called "Oh Santa". Some of the traditional songs that are set for inclusion are "The First Noel", "Little Drummer Boy", "O Little Town Of Bethlehem", & "O Come All Ye Faithful", none of which were featured on Mariah's first Christmas album. Producers who contributed to Merry Christmas II You include Jermaine Dupri & Randy Jackson (I wonder if she was ever even recording a regular new album..?). Woot! Who's excited?!

UPDATE: Mariah recorded a message to her fans (that never pans above her bust...hmm) about her new Christmas album! Take a look:

[Source]

Nicki Minaj Does Complex Magazine

Nicki Minaj gives fierce as only she can in this brand new Complex cover shoot. Oh, Onika Maraj. The life you give me...







Pink Friday = November 23rd

Christina Aguilera "Royal Desire" Ad

Christina Aguilera looks glowing in this new print ad for her latest fragrance "Royal Desire"... but all I can think about is "Burlesque"! November 24th! Yeah, baby!

[Source]

Nicki Minaj Collaborates With Gucci Mane

Nicki Minaj may be working on keeping features to a minimum when it comes to her upcoming debut album Pink Friday (November 23rd), but in the meantime, she's adding to her long list of collaborations with "Haterade", a song off Gucci Mane's new album The Appeal: Georgia's Most Wanted (September 28th) that also features Pharrell. Check it out:


That's right, you broke the record, Nicki!

Christina Aguilera On Entourage


Last Sunday before last (heh), Christina Aguilera made her guest appearance on the season finale of Entourage playing an extreme, diva-fied version of herself. She also "sang" a bit of "You Lost Me" off her latest album Bionic. It's good to hear that incredible, underrated song again!

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Jessica Mauboy Album Update

Australia's Jessica Mauboy is gearing up for the release of her sophomore album Get 'Em Girls on Friday, November 5th. The first single, also titled "Get 'Em Girls", features Snoop Dogg & recently premiered:



Bangladesh provided the beat for the single, while Jessica also worked with Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins & Harvey Mason, Jr. for the album. Additional guests set to appear on Get 'Em Girls include Ludacris, Iyaz, & Jay Sean. I adore this chick's debut album Been Waiting & "Get 'Em Girls" is one HOT song! It's just ashame she doesn't appear to be making an attempt to break the US market anytime soon.

[Source, Source, Source]

Friday, September 17, 2010

Nicole Scherzinger & Enrique Iglesias Perform "Heartbeat" On The Paul O'Grady Show

I suppose the Nicole Scherzinger-assisted "Heartbeat" is Enrique Iglesias' latest single off Euphoria in the UK because that's where, on The Paul O'Grady Show, the pair of them just gave a hot performance of their collabo. I'm a fan of the song &, of course, I love my Nicole!

Kelly Rowland "Forever & A Day" Video Premiere


"Forever & A Day" is the second international single off Kelly Rowland's as-yet-untitled third album. This video's a little more carefree than the one for "Rose Colored Glasses" we received the other day. She is sangin' her butt off & I think the effects are cool, but probably my favorite part is seeing her dancing--front & center! Sure wish the album was dropping now that videos are premiering left & right.

Rihanna "Who's That Chick" Video Premiere


"Who's That Chick" is the song (that we know of) that David Guetta produced for Rihanna's upcoming album Loud (November 16th). It was apparently set to either be the album's second or third single, although rumors suggest it wasn't even slated to be the second, but it's hard to believe that they would shoot a video so far in advance for a third single--the timing would've had it probably dropping around the top of next year. Both the leaked video & song are kinda fun, but mainly just depressing.

India.Arie & Santana Perform "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" On Leno



India.Arie joined Santana in performing their collaboration "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" off his upcoming album Guitar Heaven (September 21st) on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno. You can listen to the studio version of the song below & I think they did a great job!

While My Guitar Gently Weeps (ft. India.Arie & Yo-Yo Ma)

Usher Performs On Jimmy Kimmel



DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love



There Goes My Baby

Usher performed the same ol', same ol' Versus tracks when he visited Jimmy Kimmel Live!, but the green pants saved the day because his legs & feet were ON! I didn't mind the falsetto during the ballad either.

Kelis Performs On VEVO Summer Sets



Brave



Scream



Emancipate



4th Of July (Fireworks)



Acapella

Kelis was seriously on FIRE when she performed this set of songs from her new album Flesh Tone for VEVO Summer Sets. I know this would probably go for anybody (especially people who can sing to begin with), but Kelis + that pitch-correcting mic = MaGiC! I was getting my LIFE to "Brave" & "4th Of July (Fireworks)" was another highlight for me--she was INTO it!

"Fantasia For Real" Season 2 Trailer


When Fantasia For Real premieres on Sunday, we'll be in for a rollercoaster of a second season. As this trailer shows, VH1 captured all the aftermath of Fantasia's suicide attempt--not to mention when 'Tasia's family heard about her dating a married man..! I find it interesting/confusing that they're using "The Worst Part Is Over", one of my favorite tracks from the Back To Me era, in this promo when the song didn't even make the album...

Goo Goo Dolls Perform "Home" On Lopez Tonight



The Goo Goo Dolls gave another performance of their first single "Home" off Something For The Rest Of Us while on their promo tour on Lopez Tonight. Good stuff.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

America's Got Talent Finale Performance Highlights

Usher "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love"

Goo Goo Dolls - Medley

On the America's Got Talent finale, Usher continued his post-VMA repitition with a third performance of "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love". Yay... when is he going to perform "Hot Tottie"?! Also, the Goo Goo Dolls gave an excellent performance of (the random..?) "Slide" & their latest single "Home".

Billboard Update

^#1 Album #1 Single^

Sara Bareilles tops this week's Billboard 200 album chart with Kaleidoscope Heart, while Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" continues to reign atop the Hot 100 singles chart, where Rihanna debuts @ #75 with "Only Girl (In The World)" based solely on airplay (it was released to digitally download this week, which should secure a jump to the top five next week). Also debuting this week are Nicki Minaj & will.i.am's "Check It Out" @ #78, & Sean Kingston's "Dumb Love" @ #84.

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Marques Houston "Noize" Video Premiere


"Noize" is the latest single off Marques Houston's new album Mattress Music. The video is exactly the same as the last one. I listened to Mattress Music today & all I have to say is that I don't think I've ever heard someone say their name & the title of their album more times throughout the course of an album before.

Jordin Sparks "Beauty & The Beast" Video Preview

Jordin Sparks has covered the theme song from the classic Disney film "Beauty & The Beast" for its latest re-release. She shot a video for the track a while back, which you can catch a sneak peek of here. I don't particularly care for how they tried to modernize the song, but that has nothing to do with Jordin herself, as she did a great job. Listen to the song in full below:

Beauty & The Beast

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Kelly Rowland "Rose Colored Glasses" Video Premiere

"Rose Colored Glasses" is the second single (to receive the video treatment) off Kelly Rowland's upcoming third album. So, this is REALLY strange without the 3D effect... hopefully that version gets released relatively soon. I do like the different looks though.

Janet Jackson "For Colored Girls" Trailer

Our first look at footage from Janet Jackson's new Tyler Perry-directed film "For Colored Girls" has arrived in the form of the movie's first trailer. Looks dramatic--I love it! "For Colored Girls" opens in theaters on November 5th.

David Archuleta "The Other Side Of Down (Deluxe Edition)" Details

On October 5th, you will have the option to purchase David Archuleta's sophomore album The Other Side Of Down in a deluxe version with an accompanying DVD. No bonus tracks will be included, but along with the slightly altered artwork (see left) comes the "Something 'Bout Love" music video & making-of footage, an interview, behind-the-scenes of the album photoshoot, & a photo gallery. As usual, this is what I'll be buying! How does it sound to you?

[Source]

Brandy Rehearses For Dancing With The Stars

It looks like Brandy has been giving her partner a few aches & pains while rehearsing ahead of their Dancing With The Stars debut on Monday. I think whoever came up with posting these vids before the premiere to promote the show is a genius because we're so used to practically just seeing them give their final dances & it looking so easy, but footage like this proves that it, well, isn't! Before you go, since it's related, take a listen to my favorite song of the moment below:

Lifeguard

Usher Performs "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love" On Ellen










Fresh off rehearsing for the VMAs, Usher performed his hit single "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love" off his new EP Versus during premiere week of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Not too shabby.

Solange Does Fashizblack Magazine

Solange takes on various roles in this high fashion cover shoot for the September/October issue of Fashizblack.



Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Preview David Archuleta's "The Other Side Of Down" (Pt. 2)


In the second commentary-bundled set of snippets from David Archuleta's upcoming album The Other Side Of Down (October 5th), David again chimes in from Central Park to bring us clips of "Something 'Bout Love" (can't wait to hear THAT one in full!) & the interestingly titled "Stomping The Roses". O.O Never take the piano away, David!

Christina Aguilera "The Hollywood Reporter" Magazine Cover + More

Lookie! Christina Aguilera is featured on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter with a still from her upcoming feature film debut "Burlesque", which hits theaters on November 24th. Apparently, the movie is already generating Oscar buzz as a possible contender for the Best Costume Design trophy! And, as if that wasn't cool enough, check out this new "Burlesque" promo poster:

OneRepublic Performs "Apologize" On VEVO Go Shows

Remember that OneRepublic VEVO Go Show performance I posted awhile back? Well, here's another one for "Apologize". Their latest album Waking Up is out now.

Mandisa Album Update

While we're on the subject of American Idol season 5-ers, I might as well throw in an update on Mandisa's forthcoming third studio album! The woman herself tweeted that the project has been titled What If We Were Real & will be released on (don't hold your breath waiting for this one...) April 5th of next year. That has to be one of the furthest-ahead releases I've ever known about, but at least we know we have something to look forward to!

[Source, Source]

Katharine McPhee "Say Goodbye" Video Premiere

"Say Goodbye" is the third single lifted from Katharine McPhee's sophomore album Unbroken & will be prominently featured in the upcoming film "I Am". Kinda lame video, as would be expected from a song-off-a-soundtrack video, but I'm perfectly willing to overlook that if Kat will just release an entire album of songs like this! I don't care if it's a little (too?) AC/Celine Dion-ish--it's what she's best at!

Monday, September 13, 2010

Kelly Rowland "Rose Colored Glasses" Behind-The-Scenes

Kelly Rowland takes us behind the video for "Rose Colored Glasses" in this newly released footage from the shoot. Here, it is confirmed that the video was in fact shot in 3D, so that should be really cool! It's too bad that it probably won't matter though, seeing as how it'll be stale & molding by the time her upcoming third album comes out--that is, if it has indeed been pushed to 2011 as many are quoting Kelly as having said. I have a sneaking suspicion that her idiotic label got scared (see: Kelis) & told Kelly to rush-record an entirely urban record for the US, while her dance record has been held off for a simultaneous release in the UK, but there's a much simpler option: Kelly just needs to record urban mixes of all the dance songs (see below) & put out a double-disc album (the discs can be available separately, Motown, don't worry...)! I sure as heck would prefer that to some half-baked album inferior to the superb Ms. Kelly.

Forever & A Day (Urban Mix)

Sunday, September 12, 2010

The 2010 MTV Video Music Awards Recap



Usher - Medley



Ciara & N.E.R.D. "Hot & Fun"



Mary J. Blige, Drake, & Swizz Beatz "Fancy"



Rihanna & Eminem "Love The Way You Lie"

I feel like a broken record saying that the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards paled in comparison to the years when, say, Britney was on top of her game, but, uh, it's the truth. I do have to give them props for the stage though cause that thing was insane--it stole the show imo! Usher arguably put it to best use during his performance of "DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love" & "OMG". He & his dancers were working it! MTV pissed me off though when Ciara ended up just taking over for Nelly Furtado during N.E.R.D.'s performance, which was sponsored, aired during a commercial break, & cut short. GAAWWW!!!! Mary J. Blige looked & sounded on-point when she opened Drake's performance with Swizz Beatz singing what I believe to be the song that "Fancy" samples before they all got into it. And, back at the start of the show, Rihanna joined Eminem (following his own performance of "Not Afraid") for the first live performance of their #1 hit. As far as the actual 'award show' part was concerned, things were pretty lame. Beyonce shared in one of Lady Gaga's way-too-many wins for Best Collaboration for "Telephone" & Alicia Keys joined Jay-Z in picking up Best Cinematography for "Empire State Of Mind", but that's about it... HERE are all the winners.

Nicki Minaj & Will.I.Am Perform On 2010 MTV VMA Pre-Show

Nicki Minaj took over the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards pre-show when she kicked off her performance with a little "Your Love" before jumping into her new single "Check It Out" with will.i.am. I love when Nick acts nuts, so I loved this performance! However, I do wish she would've gotten to the rap part of "Your Love"... & I don't hate it, but "Check It Out" is a lil' lacking (listen to it below if you haven't heard it yet). Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed her performance, so yay Nicki! Sure wish she coulda done it on that big, supafly stage...

Pink Friday = November 23rd

Melanie Fiona On Rising Icons


Melanie Fiona returned to BET's Rising Icons for its second season to perform an acoustic set that played not unlike an episode of VH1's Storytellers. The set included "Monday Morning", "Somebody Come Get Me", "It Kills Me", & "Ay Yo", & if you like how Melanie sounds here, then you'll love her new acoustic EP, which you can buy HERE. Acoustic works for some people & Melanie is one of those people! I looove when she slows down "Monday Morning", so that was a highlight for me + the ending she gave that song = LIFE!! I've never heard the studio version of "Somebody Come Get Me", which was released before & not included on her debut album The Bridge, but I enjoyed that performance as well. And, of course, she killed "It Kills Me" & "Ay Yo" was nice too. I'm excited to hear what she has up her sleeve for her sophomore album The MF Life, which drops next year.

Shontelle Performs On Jimmy Kimmel



Perfect Nightmare



Impossible

Shontelle kicked off some early promo for her upcoming sophomore album No Gravity (September 21st) with awesome performances of her new single "Perfect Nightmare" & hit single "Impossible" on Jimmy Kimmel Live! I dunno, y'all... seems like No Gravity >>> Shontelligence... might just have to pick it up!

Esmee Denters "Gravity" Video Premiere


"Gravity" is the latest single off Esmee Denters' debut album Outta Here. This video is most likely a reflection of her album sales, the poor thing. But, at least she got some kinda new video!

Stand Up To Cancer Performance Highlights



Natasha Bedingfield & Stevie Wonder "With You I'm Born Again" + Leona Lewis & Others "Unchained Melody"



Leona, Natasha, & Others "Sweet Dreams"



Leona, Natasha, & Others "Stand Up To Cancer"

Friday night, this year's Stand Up To Cancer telethon aired & stars like Leona Lewis & Natasha Bedingfield, among others (I see you, Kelly Price!), took to the stage to perform in support of the cause. They both sang with Stevie Wonder, Natasha on a rusty "With You I'm Born Again" & Leona amongst a group on "Unchained Melody". In addition, both of them, though primarily Leona, joined in performing both the Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams" & during the finale. Definitely a good look. I've gotta add that I've been really into Leona's Echo era lately--the album, leaked material from around the same time, even Ryan Tedder's demos. If you can get past "Happy", there's some really good music to be uncovered there!