Bring Da Beat Back

Bring Da Beat Back's 4th Anniversary!

2012-01-18T17:53:00.000-08:00

As Bring Da Beat Back celebrates four years online, a new era is about to unfold. Having graduated college & moved on to the real world, life is calling & I will no longer be updating the blog on a day-to-day basis. While there are other outlets out there that provide daily news, I will continue to use BDBB to post album reviews, commentary, & whatever else I feel like when I feel the need. I truly thank each & every one of you that has visited & enjoyed my blog over the last four years, & I hope you will keep Bring Da Beat Back tucked away in your favorites to check up on every now & again!

Dawn Richard "SMFU" Video Preview

2012-01-01T17:44:00.000-08:00

Dawn Richard has unleashed a trailer for her first solo video "SMFU (Save Me From U)" off her upcoming debut album GoldenHeart. I really hope the new year inspires people like her, Brandy, Cassie, Monica, Melanie Fiona... (need I go on?) to start making some real moves toward getting some music out!

New Jennifer Lopez "American Idol" Promo Pic

2012-01-01T17:27:00.001-08:00

Jennifer Lopez will return to judge a second season of American Idol, the first time in four years the show's judging panel has not seen a change. As long as the crew isn't looking to completely turn the show into Nashville Star, I'm excited for the new season!

[Source]

Kelly Clarkson Performs On Z100 Jingle Ball 2011

2012-01-01T17:17:00.000-08:00

Since U Been Gone

Mr. Know It All

What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) & My Life Would Suck Without You
Kelly Clarkson also performed last month at the 2011 Z100 Jingle Ball. Her latest album Stronger is out now!

OneRepublic "Good Life (Disney Version)" Video Premiere

2012-01-01T12:57:00.001-08:00

OneRepublic has recreated their music video for "Good Life" off the album Waking Up with footage from Disney Parks, which has appropriately been using the band's song in their recent promotional material.

Kelly Clarkson "Live From The Troubadour"

2012-01-01T12:52:00.000-08:00

Shortly before the release of her new album Stronger, Kelly Clarkson performed a short concert at the Troubadour that was unceremoniously uploaded to VEVO. She sounded great! Here's the setlist:

Dark Side
Mr. Know It All
Already Gone
Sober
My Life Would Suck Without You

A Night With Beyonce

2012-01-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

Early last month, a special entitled A Night With Beyonce aired in the UK. I thought it was a rehashing of her Live At Roseland DVD like her Thanksgiving specials the last couple of years, but it turns out that it was entirely new footage! (The "I Was Here" performance from last night was from this taping.) Beyonce was having an especially good night vocally, so make sure you check it out, especially the "Countdown" performance! Hosted by everybody favorite on-air personality, The X Factor's Steve Jones, the special features Beyonce answering questions from the audience in between the following performances:

Crazy In Love
At Last
Irreplaceable
End Of Time
If I Were A Boy/You Oughta Know
1+1
Countdown
Best Thing I Never Had
Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve '12 Performance Highlights

2012-01-01T12:16:00.000-08:00

Nicki Minaj - Medley

Nicki Minaj "Super Bass"

Beyonce "I Was Here"
Nicki Minaj shut it down at Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve '12 with performances of her David Guetta collabo "Turn Me On", new single "Roman In Moscow", & biggest hit yet. Beyonce also provided the special with a pre-recorded performance from London (more on that later).

Bring Da Beat Back's Top 10 Albums Of 2011

2011-12-31T18:32:00.001-08:00

#1) Kelly Rowland Here I Am
Album Review

#2) Beyonce 4
Album Review

#3) Rihanna Talk That Talk
Album Review

#4) Jennifer Lopez Love?
Album Review

5) Mya K.I.S.S.
Album Review

#6) Avril Lavigne Goodbye Lullaby
Album Review

#7) Kelly Clarkson Stronger
Album Review

#8) Britney Spears Femme Fatale

Album Review

#9) Angels & Airwaves Love
Album Review

#10) Mary J. Blige My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1)
Album Review

Billboard Update

2011-12-31T18:19:00.001-08:00

^#1 Album #1 Single^

As Michael Buble's Christmas remains atop the Billboard 200 album chart, LMFAO take the top spot on the Hot 100 singles chart with "Sexy & I Know It", while Nicki Minaj earns her fourth top 10 hit with Big Sean on "Dance (A$$)", which jumps 12-10 this week.

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Album Review: Mya "K.I.S.S."

2011-12-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's been too long--over eight years--since a Mya album came out in the US. Since 2003's Moodring, there was 2007's unreleased/accidentally-released-in-Japan Liberation, 2008's Japan-only (on purpose this time) Sugar & Spice (I'm only sad about missing out on the former), & the 2009 Beauty & The Streets mixtape that we did get, but she could've kept... (& why that got a CD release instead of K.I.S.S. is lost on me) but only now has a brand new studio album, K.I.S.S., been given a digital release here. Japan may have been given K.I.S.S. back in April, but Mya has rewarded our patience with several new tracks on the US version, a perfect gift in the otherwise complete R&B drought known as December 2011.

1. "K.I.S.S.": Mya explains what her 2012 motto to "keep it sexy + simple" is all about in this Chuck Harmony production. It sure is nice to have that voice back in my life! 5/5

2. "Rear View Mirror" (ft. Sean Paul): Another surprisingly quality jam from the indie artist. 5/5

3. "Take Him Out" (ft. Spice): Probably my favorite US addition, this island-flavored banger keeps the album going strong. 5/5

4. "Fabulous Life": A truly fantastic song that deserves to be a huge worldwide hit (& would've been with a major label behind it). 5/5

5. "Earthquake" (ft. Trina): Another really good uptempo. I can totally see the video for it in my head! 4.5/5

6. "Mess Up My Hair": Mya keeps up the fun pace with this one. 4.5/5

7. "Break Your Neck": Not a standout, but a good addition nonetheless. 4/5

8. "Fugitive Of Love": Mya slows it down a bit with this infectious slow jam, reminding us of her versatility. 5/5

9. "Can I": A solo version of her Trina collaboration from earlier this year, this song really shines with Mya by herself on it. 4.5/5

10. "Love Me Some You" (ft. Marques Houston): A lovely track that they sound great together on. 5/5

11. "Mr. Incredible": Her voice truly shines on this one. The chorus is a little repetitive though. 4.5/5

12. "Problem & Solution": As far as I'm concerned, this ranks up there with some of Mya's signature slow jams that we've loved for years. 5/5

13. "Love Comes, Love Goes": A very pretty, honest-to-goodness ballad, which is refreshing in 2011. 4.5/5

14. "Evolve": A good song, sure, but I've never really quite connected with it. 4/5

15. "It's My Birthday": Sorry Mya, but I hate this "song" with a fiery passion. 0/5

16. "Somebody Come Get This B*tch" (ft. Stacie & Lacie): It's hard to believe this is the same artist from three songs ago, but this is definitely a guilty pleasure. 4.5/5

17. "Love Me Some You": This solo version of track 10 is a very cool addition & nice alternative to the duet version. 5/5

What's so great about K.I.S.S. is that it's fresh while still staying consistent with the Mya that we knew & loved 10-ish years ago. It's terrific all across the board, from uptempos to midtempos to ballads. I miss "Before U Say Goodbye" from the Japanese version (&, to a lesser extent, "Runnin' Back" & "Sorry"), but the album offered up here is good enough that the omissions aren't an issue. It surprises me that Mya was able to make an album as good as K.I.S.S. independently, which has me wondering how great her music--& presence in the industry again--would be if a major label would pick her back up.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Album Review: Mary J. Blige "My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1)"

2011-12-31T12:46:00.000-08:00

Mary J. Blige is back--& right on schedule--with My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1), the sequel to her 1994 album My Life that seems to fit right in more with her recent work.

1. "Intro": I'm not sure if this conversation with Diddy about including him in this album is a joke... because he is featured on one (albeit underrated) bonus track & that's it.

2. "Feel Inside" (ft. Nas): This song is just alright. Parts of it are in the part of her range that just isn't the best. Plus, Nicki > Nas. 3.5/5

3. "Midnight Drive" (ft. Brook Lynn): Mary's rap alter-ego helps really kick off the album with this smooth track. 4.5/5

4. "Next Level" (ft. Busta Rhymes): This is one of my favorites. It goes hard & Busta was an excellent choice. 5/5

5. "Ain't Nobody": She sounds good on this Darkchild-produced Chaka Khan cover, but unfortunately, it feels like they weren't able to modernize the song. 4/5

6. "25/8": I love the production on this song, but again, it's in that part of her range where her tone is just... 4/5

7. "Don't Mind": These next few tracks are my favorite part of the album. It's Mary doing Mary, not trying too hard, just chill music. Jerry Wonder is the man for this one! 5/5

8. "No Condition": With her signature structure & a key in her vocal sweet spot, this track has all the elements I need in an MJB song. 5/5

9. "Mr. Wrong" (ft. Drake): Drake aside, this Rico Love composition is, again, right where MJB should be. 5/5

10. "Why" (ft. Rick Ross): Between Rick Ross' multiple verses & the R&B-by-numbers chorus, this isn't one of the album's best offerings. 3.5/5

11. "Love A Woman" (ft. Beyonce): This was a great idea on paper. While I do enjoy them trading verses, the nothing-special voice that the two of them singing in unison on the chorus creates takes away from the power of the song... which isn't the strongest to begin with. 4/5

12. "Empty Prayers": Here is a powerful song for you, my favorite on the album actually. 5/5

13. "Need Someone": Another beautiful ballad. Good stuff. 5/5

14. "The Living Proof": Of course, the Underdogs-produced theme from "The Help" makes for a great closer. 5/5

My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1) has some great midtempos and ballads with a few hiccups in between. I wouldn't say it's one of my favorite albums from MJB, but it has some really great songs on it.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Album Review: Rihanna "Talk That Talk"

2011-12-31T12:02:00.000-08:00

I've been fighting allowing myself to become a full-fledged fan of Rihanna ever since she released the masterpiece that is Rated R because she's not the world's most talented vocalist & even though Loud was solid, let's just say that Talk That Talk convinced me!

1. "You Da One": We got a hot one right here! Love that island flavor. 5/5

2. "Where Have You Been": Rihanna may be good at this whole urban thing, but she really has a career waiting for her as a dance artist if she so desires because this song is brilliant! 5/5

3. "We Found Love" (ft. Calvin Harris): See what I mean? Not only is this the biggest hit of her career, but it's one of her best songs ever! 5/5

4. "Talk That Talk" (ft. Jay-Z): "Whatcha say now, give it to me baby!" I cannot get this song out of my head, which, in this case, I love! Jay-Z completely phoned in his pathetic lyrics, but I won't hold that against her. 5/5

5. "Cockiness (Love It)": An instant favorite of mine. Love the attitude! 5/5

6. "Birthday Cake": She was on her way to another hit with this one at least. Everything about it is fantastic except the length. 4.5/5

7. "We All Want Love": We've arrived at the (thankfully brief) slower section of the album, which tends to be rough for Rihanna. Slow jams are certainly not her forte on Talk That Talk. This song does very little for me. 2/5

8. "Drunk On Love": A slight improvement over the previous track, but that doesn't stop me from skipping it. 2.5/5

9. "Roc Me Out": She's back in her comfort zone here, so much so that it sounds like "Rude Boy Part 2", but that's not a complaint! 5/5

10. "Watch & Learn": Yet another highlight. She's so in her element on what is definitely the best song Priscilla Renea's ever written. 5/5

11. "Farewell": This, on the other hand, is my least favorite song on the album. It's no "The Last Song"... 1.5/5

For uptempos, Talk That Talk is the go-to Rihanna album. As for the three tracks I wasn't in love with, had she replaced them with the deluxe edition bonus tracks "Red Lipstick" (work more with Chase & Status please, RiRi!), "Do Ya Thang" (a would've-been hit in the making!), & "Fool In Love (in place of "Farewell"), the album would've been *muah* perfecto! Oh, & Rihanna? Please never stop working with Ester Dean. :)

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Countdown To 2012: The Top 5 Videos Of 2011

2011-12-30T22:04:00.001-08:00

#1) Beyonce "Run The World (Girls)"

Countdown To 2012: The Top 5 Videos Of 2011

2011-12-29T22:03:00.001-08:00

#2) Beyonce "Countdown"

New Mariah Carey "Jenny Craig" Commercial

2011-12-29T21:43:00.000-08:00

Mariah Carey continues to inspire others to "Make It Happen" in her latest Jenny Craig commercial set to a remix of her 1991 hit.

Countdown To 2012: The Top 5 Videos Of 2011

2011-12-28T22:21:00.000-08:00

#3) Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris "We Found Love"

Countdown To 2012: The Top 5 Videos Of 2011

2011-12-27T23:11:00.000-08:00

#4) Britney Spears "Criminal"

Album Review: Angels & Airwaves "Love"

2011-12-26T15:40:00.000-08:00

Starting with the free release of Love (Part One) in February of last year, then the "Love" movie release, & finally Love (Part Two) in November of this year, it's been a long time coming for Angels & Airwaves' Love project. Now that we have the entire musical work, is it really the most epic creation from AVA yet?

Love (Part One)

1. "Et Ducit Mundum Per Luce": A musical intro is always a good thing (at least from Angels & Airwaves).

2. "The Flight Of Apollo": A decent way to start off the album, nothing more, nothing less. 4/5

3. "Young London": The latter portion of this song saves it. I just... "suit up, boys"... I can't... 4/5

4. "Shove": The highlight of the album thus far. Not just lyrically, but the heart that makes AVA special is there. 4.5/5

5. "Epic Holiday": They really start to hit their stride musically here. Not sure I can completely get behind the lyrics though (read: cheesy). 4.5/5

6. "Hallucinations": I think they were right to release this as the first single because it's really some of their strongest work on the album. 5/5

7. "The Moon-Atomic (...Fragments & Fictions)": Structurally, this song gives me the same kinds of feelings that Angels & Airwaves gave me at times in their first two albums that made me fall in love with them. 5/5

8. "Clever Love": This one is similar for me to the previous track, but has a little bit of "Epic Holiday'"s issue. 4.5/5

9. "Soul Survivor (...2012)": The only thing I don't particularly care for here is the chorus. 4.5/5

10. "Letters To God, Part II": I can't really say anything negative about this song musically, but I'm not too sure how I feel about the lyrics. 4/5

11. "Some Origins Of Fire": My favorite song on the first part of the album. This one does things to me, like anytime when AVA is at their best. 5/5

Love (Part Two)

1. "Saturday Love": Fairly strong way to initiate the second part of Love, but the lyrics continue to be a bit... distracting. 4/5

2. "Surrender": There you are, anthemic goodness! 5/5

3. "Anxiety": This was a great first taste of Love (Part Two) (when it was played in theaters with "Love"). Another highlight. 5/5

4. "My Heroine (It's Not Over)": The latter part of this song is also better (like "Young London"), but as a whole, it's pretty good. 4.5/5

5. "Moon As My Witness": Not sure if it's supposed to be, but this makes a nice interlude. 4/5

6. "Dry Your Eyes": This is a direct replica of "Everything's Magic". C'mon, guys, that was a single! 3.5/5

7. "The Revelator": This (almost) has the same appeal of "The Moon-Atomic"... not really anthemic, but effective all the same. 4.5/5

8. "One Last Thing": One last good anthem! 5/5

9. "Inertia": Another faux interlude... not quite as enjoyable. 3.5/5

10. "Behold A Pale Horse": Decent, but there's nothing too special about this one. 4/5

11. "All That We Are": Considering the company it has as an AVA album closer ("Start The Machine", "Heaven", "Some Origins Of Fire"), this one pales in comparison. The instrumental ending is great though. 4/5

If you consider the Love album as one body of work, the beginning (of Part One) & ending (of Part Two) are the weakest in general, with the middle section being where the stronger material resides. I feel like if a few disposable tracks were done away with & Love was just a single decent-sized album, it would've been better. Instead, we have a pair of albums that, at times, are lyrically (see: Part One) & musically (see: Part Two) half-baked, & I find myself struggling to really connect with them the way that I did with We Don't Need To Whisper & I-Empire. All that said, the albums are enjoyable-enough listens for an Angels & Airwaves fan.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Countdown To 2012: The Top 5 Videos Of 2011

2011-12-26T15:38:00.000-08:00

5) Nicole Scherzinger "Right There"

Melanie Fiona Performs On Verses & Flow

2011-12-26T15:11:00.000-08:00

Melanie Fiona debuted new song "Running" after performing a medley of "4 AM" & "It Kills Me" on TV One's Verses & Flow. Melanie is gearing up for the better-not-be-pushed-back-because-I-NEED-new-music release of her sophomore album The MF Life on February 7th & if "Running" & "4 AM" are any indication of what we can expect, oo, it's gon' be gooood!

Billboard Update

2011-12-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

^#1 Album #1 Single^

As Michael Buble's Christmas continues atop the Billboard 200 album chart, Rihanna earns her longest-leading #1 on the Hot 100 singles chart with "We Found Love", which, in its eighth week, is also the year's longest leader!

See full charts HERE

Beyonce Performs "I Wanna Be Where You Are" At Michael Jackson Tribute Concert

2011-12-26T14:50:00.000-08:00

Seeing as how the taping of the Michael Jackson tribute concert is slowly slipping into oblivion, Beyonce has taken to her own devices to share her performance of "I Wanna Be Where You Are", a stylized, lengthier version of the same performance from her recent Live At Roseland: Elements Of 4 DVD release, from the concert by uploading it to her YouTube channel. Very nice job as always!

Rihanna "You Da One" Video Premiere

2011-12-26T14:47:00.000-08:00

"You Da One" is the second single lifted from Rihanna's new album Talk That Talk. "We Found Love" may still be #1, but that didn't stop them from raining on its parade the same way it overshadowed "Cheers (Drink To That)". I do like the video & song though.

Leona Lewis Performs "Run" On The X Factor Finale

2011-12-26T14:40:00.000-08:00

Leona Lewis wasted an opportunity on the finale of The X Factor to bring her new Hurt EP to the US by performing the cover that started it all "Run". Who cares though because Melanie Amaro won (she's better) & that's all that matters!

New Jennifer Hudson "Weight Watchers" Commercial

2011-12-26T14:39:00.001-08:00

Jennifer Hudson duets with her Idol semifinals self in a cute new commercial for Weight Watchers. Her latest album I Remember Me is out now.

VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul Performance Highlights

2011-12-26T14:10:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, & Mary J. Blige - Medley

Jennifer Hudson & Jessie J "Knock On Wood"

Kelly Clarkson & Ledisi "Chain Of Fools"

Mary J. Blige & Chaka Khan "Ain't Nobody"

Jennifer Hudson "Night Of Your Life"

Estelle & Travie McCoy "Wake Up Everybody"

Kelly Clarkson "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)"

Estelle, Erykah Badu, Marsha Ambrosius, & ?uestlove "Back To Life"

Mary J. Blige "Mr. Wrong"
Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Mary J. Blige, & Estelle were on hand at VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul to, well, do just that. The show was pretty good, especially the opening number with Jennifer Hudson performing "Spotlight", Mary J. Blige singing "Real Love", Kelly Clarkson belting "Since U Been Gone", & all three of them kicking things off with The Supremes' "You Keep Me Hangin' On". Other highlights for me included J-Hud performing her David Guetta collaboration for the first time, Jennifer & Jessie J singing together, & the clever pairing of MJB & Chaka Khan. The fact that they brought out guys & VH1's insistence on pimping that Sharon Jones character irked me though.

Janet Jackson "Nutrisystem" Commercial

2011-12-26T13:32:00.001-08:00

Check out Janet Jackson as the new spokeswoman for Nutrisystem in this new commercial. I'm happy to see her looking so good!

Mary J. Blige "Mr. Wrong" Video Premiere

2011-12-26T13:24:00.000-08:00

"Mr. Wrong" is the second (or third, depending on how you look at it) single off Mary J. Blige's new album My Life II... The Journey Continues (Part 1). I have to bring up the strange lack of featured artist Drake, as there's really no point of getting the rapper of the moment on your song if you don't put him in the video. That said, I don't think the video suffers without him as her Mr. Wrong & the song certainly doesn't for me personally.

One Last Look At Christmas...

2011-12-26T13:14:00.000-08:00

Christina Aguilera "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"

Kelly Rowland, Michael Buble, & Naturally 7 "White Christmas"

David Archuleta "Silent Night"

David Archuleta "The First Noel"
Christina Aguilera performed on the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade, Kelly Rowland joined Michael Buble on his Home For Christmas special in the UK, & King of Christmas David Archuleta gave us our likely last glimpse of him for quite a while on A Fox & Friends Christmas. Nice job all around, as Steve Jones would say!

Pia Toscano & Il Volo Perform "La Luna Hizo Esto" On PBS + More

2011-12-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

Pia Toscano performed "La Luna Hizo Esto" with Il Volo (avid Idol watchers will recognize them) on their PBS special recently. Lest we forget how talented this woman is! Pia also joined Il Volo on their Christmas EP for "The Christmas Song":

The Christmas Song (ft. Pia Toscano)

Jennifer Hudson Performs On Christmas In Washington

2011-12-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

O Holy Night

Do You Hear What I Hear
Jennifer Hudson spread some holiday cheer by performing for the Obamas on the annual Christmas In Washington special. Nice job, Jen!

Janelle Monae Performs On Nobel Peace Prize Concert

2011-12-18T14:40:00.000-08:00

Cold War

Tightrope

I Want You Back

Move On Up
At this year's Nobel Peace Prize concert, Janelle Monae performed her two singles off The ArchAndroid, covered the Jackson 5, & joined the event's other performers to cover Curtis Mayfield for the grand finale. Janelle always brings the energy!

Kelly Rowland "Jet" Magazine Cover

2011-12-17T14:59:00.001-08:00

Kelly Rowland looks pretty on the cover of Jet's new issue. Her awesome third album Here I Am is available now!

[Source]

Nicole Scherzinger Performs "Pretty" On The X Factor

2011-12-17T14:52:00.000-08:00

Nicole Scherzinger debuted her new single "Pretty" on The X Factor results show this week. It's got that Ryan Tedder production feel to it & I love it! Apparently Interscope doesn't give a rat's a$$ about it or her though or else it would've been on iTunes by now. Fingers crossed that Nicole's debut album Killer Love gets released next year.

Brandy Album Update

2011-12-17T14:34:00.001-08:00

Details have begun to emerge about Brandy's sixth studio album & first for RCA/Chameleon. Collaborators include Frank Ocean, Sean Garrett, Rico Love, Bangladesh, Timbaland, & Jim Jonsin... in other words, the best out there! Brandy had this to say about the upcoming album:

"What I'm truly excited about is how the album is all about R&B & figuring out the new sound of R&B, & that was the challenge for me. I wanted to do something different--I didn't want to just sing about love over regular beats."

Bran anticipates a March release, but that's not written in stone (something we know all too well). The album is set to follow her recent stint on 90210 as well as her 10-episode stint on The Game, which begins January 10th. I love her, but I don't think I can take watching those shows just for her to pop up here & there... bring on the music!

[Source, Source]

Jennifer Lopez "Harman/Kardon" Commercial

2011-12-17T14:30:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Lopez scores her umpteenth endorsement deal this year as the new spokeswoman for the Harman/Kardon home theater system. Not like she needs the money, but her latest album Love? is out now.

Billboard Update

2011-12-17T14:09:00.001-08:00

^#1 Album #1 Single^

This week features three-peats from Michael Buble's Christmas atop the Billboard 200 album chart & Rihanna's "We Found Love" atop the Hot 100 singles chart, where she matches her personal records for longest-running #1's at seven weeks ("Umbrella", "Love The Way You Lie" with Eminem). Kelly Clarkson debuts @ #93 with "I'll Be Home For Christmas", that song's highest position ever on the Hot 100!

See full charts HERE

Nicole Scherzinger & Leona Lewis Perform On 2011 Royal Variety

2011-12-17T13:56:00.000-08:00

Nicole Scherzinger "The Phantom Of The Opera"

Nicole Scherzinger "Try With Me"

Leona Lewis & Cee Lo Green "Somebody To Love"

Leona Lewis "Hurt"
Nicole Scherzinger showed off her hidden talent as an opera singer & performed a *proper* version of her latest UK single, while Leona Lewis sang covers both solo & as a duet with Cee Lo Green at this year's Royal Variety. They both did well, but Nicole blew me away!

Adam Lambert Album Update

2011-12-17T13:12:00.000-08:00

Adam Lambert has just premiered "Better Than I Know Myself", the incredible Claude Kelly-penned lead single off his upcoming sophomore album Trespassing, which is set to be released on March 20th! Those Adam collaborated with on Trespassing include Dr. Luke, Benny Blanco, & Bonnie McKee (Katy Perry's hit-making team) as well as Sam Sparro ("Voodoo"), Bruno Mars, Nikka Costa, & BC Jean. I certainly hope "Better Than I Know Myself", which hits iTunes on December 20th, is an indication of what's to come! That list of collaborators is pretty promising though.

[Source]

David Archuleta At Forbes Magazine

2011-12-17T13:06:00.000-08:00

"The First Noel"

"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"

Interview
David Archuleta visited the offices of Forbes magazine to perform their first holiday concert, which was pure gorgeousness. He also sat down for an interview, where he suggested he may be getting into some acting in the coming year!

New Leona Lewis Promo Pics

2011-12-17T12:40:00.000-08:00

Despite the fact that it's (UK at least) release has been delayed to March 26th, some new promotional photos have popped up for Leona Lewis' third album Glassheart. She looks great!

[Source]

Kelly Clarkson "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)" Video Premiere

2011-12-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

"What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)" is the second single lifted from Kelly Clarkson's latest album Stronger. I don't know what RCA has against spending money on videos, but at least she looks good.

Ashanti Album Update

2011-12-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

Ashanti has just released "The Woman You Love", the Busta Rhymes-assisted, Jerry Wonder-produced first single off her upcoming fifth studio album. The album will be released through her own imprint Written Entertainment & distributed via a new deal with eOne Music (who released Brian McKnight's most recent album). Ashanti released the following statement about the deal:

"I'm so excited to have my own record label, Written Entertainment. With eOne as my distributor, I feel that their innovative & ambitious approach to the music industry really gives my label a worldwide presence. They have the top radio people in the business & are hungry to win! The more I learned the business, the more I knew this is what I wanted. Ownership is so important. As a business woman, this was a great move for me!"

I'm glad she's happy. I really haven't enjoyed her music as much though since she went beyond just being the hook girl. That tone...

[Source, Source]

Willow ft. Nicki Minaj "Fireball" Video Premiere

2011-12-16T22:32:00.000-08:00

"Fireball", featuring Nicki Minaj, is the third single off Willow's upcoming debut album Knees & Elbows (April 3rd). Willow IS a little fireball! She did her thing in this video. I've liked all of her singles so far (to varying degrees) & I think I just might have to pick up that album when it drops!

Fantasia Welcomes Son

2011-12-16T22:21:00.000-08:00

Fantasia gave birth to a baby boy named Dallas Xavier Barrino on Tuesday, December 13th. He weighed 7 lbs. & 9 oz. She released the following statement:

"I feel so blessed that my son Dallas Xavier was born healthy, & is a wonderful new addition to our family. I thank all my fans for their well wishes & continued support."

He was a couple weeks early, so I'm glad he's healthy.

[Source]

Mary J. Blige "Rock Of Ages" Trailer

2011-12-16T22:15:00.000-08:00

Get a sneak peek of Mary J. Blige in the film adaptation of "Rock Of Ages" with this first trailer for the movie. I hate 80's music with a passion, but I might sit through this for MJB! "Rock Of Ages" opens June 1st.

Mariah Carey & John Legend "When Christmas Comes" Video Premiere

2011-12-13T21:00:00.000-08:00

Mariah Carey's other Christmas video this year, a collaboration with John Legend on "When Christmas Comes", originally off Merry Christmas II You, has premiered. Charming :) (the original's better...)

Karina Pasian "Trips To Venus: Volume One (Holiday Edition)" EP Cover & Tracklisting

2011-12-13T20:43:00.000-08:00

Karina Pasian has just released her new EP Trips To Venus: Volume One (Holiday Edition). Check out the tracklisting below:

1. Dead End
2. Just Another Melody
3. Last To Know
4. Perfectly Different
5. When You're In Love
6. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)

I already loved tracks 3 & 5 (4 is OK...but, hey, it's FREE this week!), & the first two are excellent! This EP, the follow-up to her 2008 debut, surpassed my expectations, so I'm excited about that "Volume One" there!

[Source]

Will.I.Am ft. Jennifer Lopez & Mick Jagger "T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)" Video Premiere

2011-12-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Lopez does her World's Most Beautiful Woman thing in will.i.am's video for "T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)", the first single off his forthcoming album #willpower, also featuring Mick Jagger. It's cool, but I have to discuss this song title. What in the world would you call this song if you were talking about it to your friends: "The"? "The Hardest Ever", which is never said in the song? Or "T-H-E, The Hardest Ever"? Really?! will.i.am & these acronyms...

Jordin Sparks "Angels Are Singing" Song Premiere + More

2011-12-13T20:00:00.001-08:00

Jordin Sparks has released a new tune for the holidays in the form of "Angels Are Singing", the theme song for ABC Family's original movie "12 Dates Of Christmas":

Cute. In related news, her upcoming movie "Sparkle" has received a release date of August 10, 2012!

[Source]

The X Factor UK Finale Performance Highlights

2011-12-13T19:24:00.000-08:00

Leona Lewis "Hurt"

Kelly Rowland & Amelia Lily "River Deep Mountain High"
Leona Lewis returned to where it all began to perform the title track off her new cover EP on the finale of The X Factor UK. Her performance started out slow, but she really killed it in the end! Also, mentor Kelly Rowland finished off the ~~season~~ series by performing with her final contestant (right before she got eliminated in third place) Amelia Lily in what many hailed as the highlight of the night!

Cassie "King Of Hearts" Trailer

2011-12-10T18:43:00.000-08:00

Cassie has unveiled this sexy trailer for her new single "King Of Hearts". Could a new Cassie album finally be on the way? I hope so!

Ruben Studdard Album Update

2011-12-10T18:30:00.000-08:00

Ruben Studdard has just released a cover of Bobby Brown's "Rock Wit'cha", which is rumored to feature K. Michelle & serves as the lead single from his upcoming fifth album Letters From Birmingham (March 11th).

[Source]

Rihanna "Battleship" Trailer

2011-12-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

Get your first taste of Rihanna's acting chops in this new trailer for "Battleship", hitting theaters on May 18th. Looks pretty sweet!

The Caffeine Patch: Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted Trailer & Poster

2011-12-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

The marketing campaign for the newly christened "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" has officially begun with the first trailer & poster premieres for the June 8th release!

[Source]

Jennifer Lopez "What To Expect When You're Expecting" Trailer

2011-12-10T17:47:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Lopez fronts an all-star cast in "What To Expect When You're Expecting", the film adaptation of the bestselling book, which hits theaters on May 11th!

Billboard Update

2011-12-10T17:26:00.001-08:00

^#1 Album #1 Single^

Nothing too interesting to report this week... Michael Buble's Christmas repeats atop the Billboard 200 album chart & Rihanna spends her sixth week on top of the Hot 100 singles chart with "We Found Love".

See full charts HERE

Mary J. Blige Performs "Need Someone" On The X Factor

2011-12-10T17:22:00.000-08:00

Mary J. Blige performed "Need Someone" off her new album My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1) on The X Factor results show this week. Mary, if you're singing on a show that's a singing competition, you might put a little extra effort into making sure you're singing in tune... just a thought.

Ciara "Mama I Want To Sing" Cover

2011-12-10T17:13:00.000-08:00

"Mama I Want To Sing", starring Ciara, will finally make its official debut on DVD come Valentine's Day. I watched it when it unofficially premiered for a brief period on YouTube & it's rather terrible. The worst part is that even though Ciara is a singer starring as the character who, well, 'wants to sing,' her singing voice is provided by gospel singer Kierra "Kiki" Sheard...

[Source]

Keri Hilson Collaborates With Anthony Hamilton

2011-12-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

Keri Hilson is featured on a track called "Never Let Go" off Anthony Hamilton's upcoming album Back To Love (December 13th). Listen below:

Honestly, I'd be cool with never hearing it again.

[Source]

Kelly Rowland Performs "Down For Whatever" On The X Factor Germany

2011-12-07T18:34:00.000-08:00

Kelly Rowland continued her European promo by performing her latest international single "Down For Whatever" off Here I Am on Germany's incarnation of The X Factor. I can't even hate, she did that!

Kelly Clarkson "I'll Be Home For Christmas" Song Premiere

2011-12-07T18:27:00.000-08:00

Kelly Clarkson has joined in the holiday fun & released her very own fantastic jazzy version of "I'll Be Home For Christmas". Her new album Stronger is out now.

[Source]

Solange "DKMS" PSA

2011-12-07T18:21:00.000-08:00

Solange has filmed this public service announcement for DKMS to help cure blood cancer by encouraging others to follow her example & register to be a bone marrow donor at GetSwabbed.org. It's good to see that she's doing positive things in her musical absence.

Kelly Rowland Performs On The X Factor UK

2011-12-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

Kelly Rowland finally stepped out from behind the judging panel on The X Factor in the UK to perform "When Love Takes Over" & "Down For Whatever" in support of her new album Here I Am. She kinda killed that! I am gonna need her to get one of those mics that hooks onto your ear though because the woman cannot seem to keep the thing up to her mouth!

Leona Lewis "Hurt" EP Cover & Tracklisting

2011-12-05T18:26:00.001-08:00

More-or-less as an apology for delaying the release of her third album, Leona Lewis is putting out a 3-track cover EP entitled Hurt on December 9th (in the UK at least). Check out what covers she has in store below:

1. Hurt (Nine Inch Nails)
2. Iris (Goo Goo Dolls)
3. Colorblind (Counting Crows)

Not gonna lie, I'm excited to hear her tackle the Goo Goo Dolls' "Iris"!

[Source]

Nicole Scherzinger "imPress" Commercial

2011-12-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

Although I'm still mad at her, I'll go ahead & share Nicole Scherzinger starring in a new commercial for imPress, her latest endorsement.

Mya's "K.I.S.S." Gets US Release

2011-12-05T17:48:00.001-08:00

One of the year's best albums & Mya's best album in years, K.I.S.S., will be receiving a digital release in the US on December 20th. The cover art has been given a purple tint (see: left) & the tracklisting has been given an adjustment:

1. K.I.S.S.
2. Rear View Mirror (ft. Sean Paul)
3. Take Him Out (ft. Spice)
4. Fabulous Life
5. Earthquake (ft. Trina)
6. Mess Up My Hair
7. Break Your Neck
8. Fugitive Of Love
9. Can I
10. Love Me Some You (ft. Marques Houston)
11. Mr. Incredible
12. Problem & Solution
13. Love Comes, Love Goes
14. Evolve
15. It's My Birthday
16. Somebody Come Get This B*tch (ft. Stacie & Lacie)
17. Love Me Some You

Hear previews of the new tracks (3, 9, 16, & 17 as well as the leaked 5, 7, & 15) HERE. I'm sad to see "Before U Say Goodbye", "Runnin' Back", & even "Alive" go... (not "Sorry" so much, as it's an ancient leak that was a last-minute replacement on the Japanese version for the ill-timed "Earthquake".) As for the bonus tracks (15-17), she could've kept the terrible "It's My Birthday"... ya know, my general attitude towards this whole digital release is pretty negative because as a longtime Mya fan, I have her first three albums on CD & I've been waiting eight years to buy another one, but I'll just have to keep waiting because we're getting cheated with this half-a$$ digital release. I won't complain any more about getting four (well, 3 1/2) brand new songs from Mya though!

Beyonce Appears On 20/20

2011-12-05T17:21:00.000-08:00

Beyonce recently discussed her pregnancy & new DVD [Live At Roseland: Elements Of] 4 (but feel free not to bother with that mouthful, host-man!) with Katie Couric on 20/20.

OneRepublic Performs On National Christmas Tree Lighting

2011-12-05T17:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas Without You

Silent Night
Producer Of The Year Grammy nominee Ryan Tedder & co. performed their new Christmas tune as well as a holiday classic for the First Family at this year's National Christmas Tree Lighting. OneRepublic making Christmas music bearable, will you look at that!

Kelly Rowland Does Marie Claire UK

2011-12-04T22:55:00.001-08:00

In support of the release of her third album Here I Am, Kelly Rowland has a cover spread in the January issue of Marie Claire in the UK. Not her best cover, if I'm being honest, but the photoshoot is nice!

[Source, Source]

Avril Lavigne Performs "Wish You Were Here" On Live With Kelly

2011-12-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

Avril Lavigne gave another lovely, albeit short, performance of her latest single "Wish You Were Here" off Goodbye Lullaby on the post-Regis Live With Kelly.

Kelly Rowland Performs On BBC Radio 1Xtra Live

2011-12-04T00:24:00.000-08:00

Like This

Dilemma/I'm Dat Chick

Destiny's Child Medley

Work/When Love Takes Over/Commander

All Of The Night (w/ Luke James)/Lay It On Me (w/ Big Sean)

Motivation

Down For Whatever
Kelly Rowland performed a set at BBC Radio 1Xtra Live in support of the recent UK release of her third album Here I Am. In all honesty, I find it hard to watch extended performances like this from her, mainly because she refuses to sing the majority of the time (see: Dilemma, the DC medley, etc.). I would much rather she just choose a few songs to perform & polish them up as opposed to trying to do so much that she relies on the audience to do most of the work. I do kinda feel bad for her though because whoever was backstage was falling asleep on the job & Kelly had to wake them up everytime it was time for the next song to start! And that Luke James character... man, can he sing!

Billboard Update

2011-12-03T21:26:00.001-08:00

^#1 Album #1 Single^

Michael Buble's Christmas tops the Billboard 200 album chart, where Rihanna debuts @ #3 with Talk That Talk following first-week sales of 197,000 copies. Mary J. Blige also debuts @ #5 with My Life II... The Journey Continues, Act 1 following first-week sales of 156,000 copies. Rihanna continues atop the Hot 100 singles chart with "We Found Love", while she scores the week's highest debut @ #31 with the Jay-Z-assisted "Talk That Talk" & also debuts @ #65 with "Where Have You Been". Jennifer Lopez debuts alongside will.i.am & Mick Jagger @ #36 with "T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)". Meanwhile, Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" tops the inaugural Holiday Songs chart!

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Justin Bieber ft. Mariah Carey "All I Want For Christmas Is You" Video Premiere

2011-12-03T21:21:00.001-08:00

Mariah Carey shows off that post-baby bod in, creepily enough, Justin Bieber's new video for their "All I Want For Christmas Is You" collaboration.

Nicki Minaj Performs "Super Bass" On Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

2011-12-03T21:19:00.001-08:00

Best New Artist Grammy nominee Nicki Minaj closed out this year's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show with her hit single "Super Bass" off Pink Friday. Be sure to check out "Roman In Moscow", the teaser for her upcoming album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded (February 14th), on iTunes now!

2012 Grammy Nominees Announced

2011-12-03T21:02:00.000-08:00

Not that they mean anything, but the nominations for the 2012 Grammys have been announced & Rihanna managed to score four. Nicki Minaj & Kelly Price both got three, while Christina Aguilera, Beyonce, Melanie Fiona, & Fergie (as a songwriter on Kanye West's "All Of The Lights") each scored a pair. See the full list of nominees HERE.

[Source]

2011 Grammy Nominations Concert Performance Highlights

2011-12-03T20:47:00.000-08:00

Rihanna "We Found Love"

Usher & Valerie Simpson - Ashford/Lieber Tribute
Rihanna, via satellite from London, & Usher were on hand to perform at this year's Grammy Nominations Concert. Re: RiRi's performance, I hate that they cut it down so short. Ruined it for me.

Christmas In Rockefeller Center Performance Highlights

2011-12-03T20:44:00.000-08:00

Katharine McPhee "Beautiful"

Usher & Justin Bieber "The Christmas Song"

Syesha Mercado, Karina Pasian Release Christmas Singles

2011-12-03T20:09:00.000-08:00

Syesha Mercado has released an original song called "Christmas Melody" for the holiday season. The iTunes exclusive is the American Idol alum's first post-Idol release, so if you need that voice back in your life like I do, then head right HERE!

Now going by her full name, Karina Pasian has put out a cover of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)", her first post-Def Jam release. This will be followed by the release of her EP Trips To Venus on December 13th! Until then though, get into the holiday spirit with Karina HERE.

Beyonce "Countdown (Alternate Version)" Video Premiere

2011-12-03T19:58:00.000-08:00

A lawsuit-free version of Beyonce's "Countdown" video has surfaced. It's certainly an interesting watch, though a step down from the original. Beyonce's should've-been-Grammy-nominated album 4 is out now.

Bridget Kelly Performs "Seek & Destroy" On What's Trending

2011-12-01T20:33:00.000-08:00

Bridget Kelly performed a PG-rated version of "Seek & Destroy" off her free EP Every Girl on the online series What's Trending. I love this woman! So talented.

Usher & David Guetta Perform "Without You" On Jimmy Kimmel, Ellen

2011-12-01T20:19:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Kimmel Live!

The Ellen DeGeneres Show

Mary J. Blige Performs "Mr. Wrong" On The View

2011-12-01T19:41:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Soul Train Awards Recap

2011-11-28T20:37:00.000-08:00

Melanie Fiona performed "Fool For You", her duet with Cee Lo Green, at the 2011 Soul Train Awards, where Kelly Rowland was a big winner, picking up Song Of The Year for "Motivation"! Nicki Minaj won Best Hip-Hop Song Of The Year for "Moment 4 Life", Beyonce picked up Best Dance Performance for "Run The World (Girls)", & Rihanna won Best Caribbean Performance for "Man Down". See a full list of winners HERE.

UPDATED New Dawn Richard Promo Pic + More

2011-11-28T20:23:00.001-08:00

Dawn Richard's just chillin' in this new promotional photo. She will be releasing her Christmas single "December Sky" to iTunes on December 1st!

UPDATE: Added another promo pic & the "December Sky" single cover for the heck of it below:

[Source]

Pia Toscano Performs "This Time" On So Random!

2011-11-28T20:12:00.000-08:00

Pia Toscano randomly (...literally) performed "This Time" on the Disney Channel's So Random! She did an incredible job & it sure is a shame this song didn't take off because I could've really used her album during this complete void music-wise known as December that we have coming up.

Lily Allen Welcomes Daughter

2011-11-28T19:21:00.000-08:00

Somewhere along the line, I missed something because I didn't even know Lily Allen was pregnant (her Twitter handle's the only reason I knew she got married...), but I am happy to report that after two miscarriages, Lily has given birth to a girl! The baby, whose name is as yet unknown, was born last Friday.

[Source]

David Archuleta Performs With Mannheim Steamroller On Pandora Unforgettable Moments On Ice

2011-11-28T19:07:00.000-08:00

Above The Northern Lights

To Be With You

What Child Is This

Pat-A-Pan

Silent Night (w/ Chip David, MS founder)
David Archuleta came ~~out of hiding~~ back to America to perform on the Pandora Unforgettable Moments On Ice special with Mannheim Steamroller... & he's still got it! "Above The Northern Lights" is purdy, "To Be With You" was a nice throwback to his wonderful debut album, & the 'oo' version of "Silent Night" was... interesting! Note: David's only in the "Silent Night" video for a little over two minutes anyway, so by the time it messes up, he's done, no worries.

OneRepublic "Christmas Without You" Song Premiere

2011-11-28T18:29:00.001-08:00

OneRepublic has released a holiday tune of their own called "Christmas Without You". They may not be a bunch of Mariahs when it comes to Christmas music, but they're not half bad (certainly better than that absolute sh!t Bieber has out)!

[Source]

Birdman ft. Nicki Minaj & Lil' Wayne "Y U Mad" Video Premiere

2011-11-28T18:23:00.000-08:00

Nicki Minaj is all about representing the YMCMB in her latest appearance alongside Lil' Wayne in Birdman's new video for "Y U Mad". I think Birdman literally got a whole 15 words in there! Lil' Wayne, maybe 20! Nicki <3

Nicole Scherzinger "Shape" Magazine Cover

2011-11-28T18:18:00.000-08:00

Nicole Scherzinger steps away from The X Factor's judging table for a moment to show off her Shape on the magazine's December cover. Yes ma'am! Good timing too, with all the albums you AREN'T putting out to promote! :)

[Source]

Beyonce "Dance For You" Video Premiere

2011-11-26T21:09:00.000-08:00

"Dance For You" completes Beyonce's anthology for her latest album 4. This one's just in case you were wondering how lil' Sasha got made! Fantastic as usual!

Jordin Sparks Performs "The Cure" On Kaleidoscope

2011-11-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

Jordin Sparks sang her appropriate track "The Cure" off her last album Battlefield on Kaleidoscope, which honors cancer survivors. Lookin' good, Jordy!

Melinda Doolittle "God Bless Us Everyone" Video Premiere

2011-11-26T20:43:00.000-08:00

Melinda Doolittle has just premiered a video of random photos for her new Christmas song "God Bless Us Everyone". She sounds better than I remember! Anybody know why she (practically) shaved her head though?!

Billboard Update

2011-11-26T20:14:00.000-08:00

^#1 Album #1 Single^

While Drake's Take Care tops the Billboard 200 album chart, it's all about Rihanna (well, & a little bit about Drake too) on the Hot 100 singles chart, where her "We Found Love" rules with the Airplay Gainer title for a fourth consecutive week. Rihanna also jumps 73-14 with "You Da One" & earns the chart's highest debut @ #9 alongside Drake with "Take Care".

See full charts HERE

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia)

Avril Lavigne Performs "Wish You Were Here" On Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

2011-11-26T20:09:00.001-08:00

Here is Avril Lavigne's bloody performance of "Wish You Were Here" off her latest album Goodbye Lullaby on the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Not that there's anything wrong with the explicit version, but I kinda wanna download the edited version of this song!

Avril Lavigne On VH1 Big Morning Buzz

2011-11-26T19:58:00.000-08:00

"Wish You Were Here" & "What The Hell"

Interview
Avril Lavigne continued her promo tour for the new single "Wish You Were Here" off Goodbye Lullaby on VH1 Big Morning Buzz(?). Re: her "What The Hell" performance... don't get too crazy there, Avril! lol

Kelly Clarkson Performs "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)" On The X Factor

2011-11-26T19:42:00.001-08:00

The original Idol Kelly Clarkson gave her first high-profile performance of "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)", her new single off Stronger, on The X Factor. Nice!

Nicki Minaj Album Update

2011-11-26T19:30:00.000-08:00

Those anxiously awaiting new music from Nicki Minaj or those not completely satisfied with what was offered up with Pink Friday (the album's biggest hit was a bonus track, I mean...) need not fret because of nor get confused by the title of her sophomore album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, which is set to be released on Valentine's Day (a Tuesday...). I'm not entirely sure why she's sticking with the whole Pink Friday thing, but 'Roman Reloaded' has me downright giddy!

[Source, Source]