Michael Jackson‘s “Billie Jean” deeply impressed an important R&b musician. He said that the track could have been transformed into 12 different hit songs if Jackson had divided it up in a certain way. The R&b icon discussed how he tries to find songs similar to “Billie Jean” every day.
An R&b maetro explained why ‘Billie Jean’ is Michael Jackson’s masterpiece
Antonio “L.A.” Reid is a major pop/R&b producer. He has worked with stars like Boys II Men, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton. In a 2011 essay he wrote for Rolling Stone, he said the King of Pop was the best entertainer of all time, comparing him to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Reid recalled seeing The Jackson 5 at a state fair when he was young. Reid recalled Jackson’s voice resonating throughout the fairground.
“‘Billie Jean’ is the most important record he made,...
An R&b maetro explained why ‘Billie Jean’ is Michael Jackson’s masterpiece
Antonio “L.A.” Reid is a major pop/R&b producer. He has worked with stars like Boys II Men, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton. In a 2011 essay he wrote for Rolling Stone, he said the King of Pop was the best entertainer of all time, comparing him to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Reid recalled seeing The Jackson 5 at a state fair when he was young. Reid recalled Jackson’s voice resonating throughout the fairground.
“‘Billie Jean’ is the most important record he made,...
- 4/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Rita Ora has joined the cast of 'He Bled Neon'.The 33-year-old pop star will take on her latest acting role alongside Joe Cole, former NFL ace Marshawn Lynch and Jack O'Connell in the action-thriller from director Drew Kirsch.The project marks the feature directorial debut from Kirsch - a music video director who has co-helmed the videos for the Taylor Swift songs 'You Need to Calm Down' and 'Lover' and has also worked with artists including Shakira and John Legend.A synopsis of the picture reads: "After his estranged brother's mysterious death, Ethan's (Cole) journey to Las Vegas for the funeral unravels a dark web of crime, forcing him to confront his past as he delves into the city's gritty underworld to uncover the truth, risking everything he holds dear in the process."Tim Cairo and Jake Gibson are writing the script from an original story by Nate Bolotin,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
Tonight on “American Idol,” with guidance from guest mentor Gene Simmons, the Top 14 take on songs from legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees as America votes live for the Top 12. Plus, the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees are announced live.
Below, follow with our live blog for “American Idol 22” Episode 12 airing Sunday, April 21 (8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Et).
See ‘American Idol’ deaths: Full list of singers we’ve lost
8:00 p.m. — Previously on “American Idol”! The Top 20 performed for a spot in the Top 14. The top 10 vote-getters advanced automatically before judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie saved four more. The six eliminated artists were Ajii, Jennifer Jeffries, Kennedy Reid, Mackenzie Sol, Odell Bunton Jr. and Quintavious. Who will go home tonight?
8:05 p.m. — Luke opened up the show with a performance of “Small Town” by John Mellencamp. Next all three judges take...
Below, follow with our live blog for “American Idol 22” Episode 12 airing Sunday, April 21 (8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Et).
See ‘American Idol’ deaths: Full list of singers we’ve lost
8:00 p.m. — Previously on “American Idol”! The Top 20 performed for a spot in the Top 14. The top 10 vote-getters advanced automatically before judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie saved four more. The six eliminated artists were Ajii, Jennifer Jeffries, Kennedy Reid, Mackenzie Sol, Odell Bunton Jr. and Quintavious. Who will go home tonight?
8:05 p.m. — Luke opened up the show with a performance of “Small Town” by John Mellencamp. Next all three judges take...
- 4/22/2024
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Fifty-three years ago today, the world was blessed with the birth of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, who became an eternal icon in Latin pop culture and music. Selena blazed a trail for the música Mexicana explosion that we're seeing today and the Latina pop stars who have followed in her footsteps. Her impact is often minimized in comparison to the circumstances of her tragic death. However, her music - and how she bridged the gap between her Mexican and American identities - continue to resonate with new generations of Latine fans.
Selena Quintanilla was born on April 16, 1971, and grew up in Corpus Christi, TX. She was an Aries, a sign often described as "passionate, brave, and headstrong." Indeed of conforming with the música Mexicana artists of the time, she paved the way for herself by proudly embracing her Chicana identity. With influences like Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Jody Watley, and Gloria Estefan,...
Selena Quintanilla was born on April 16, 1971, and grew up in Corpus Christi, TX. She was an Aries, a sign often described as "passionate, brave, and headstrong." Indeed of conforming with the música Mexicana artists of the time, she paved the way for herself by proudly embracing her Chicana identity. With influences like Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Jody Watley, and Gloria Estefan,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Lucas Villa
- Popsugar.com
Kelly Clarkson took on another iconic hit on Friday’s episode of her talk show. During her Kellyoke segment, the host delivered a cover of Chaka Khan’s Grammy-winning song “Ain’t Nobody” — the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s 1983 track with Rufus from their live album, Stompin’ at the Savoy.
“Ain’t nobody/Loves me better/Makes me happy/Makes me feel this way,” Clarkson belted out while backed by My Band Y’all. When looking back at her legacy, Khan told Rolling Stone in a December 2023 interview that she “never,...
“Ain’t nobody/Loves me better/Makes me happy/Makes me feel this way,” Clarkson belted out while backed by My Band Y’all. When looking back at her legacy, Khan told Rolling Stone in a December 2023 interview that she “never,...
- 4/13/2024
- by Charisma Madarang
- Rollingstone.com
There’s a trap inherent to making a musical biopic. On the one hand, there’s something undeniably thrilling and crowd-pleasing about seeing a cultural icon like Freddie Mercury, Whitney Houston, or Elvis Presley come alive on the screen. On the other hand, when audiences buy a ticket to see a movie about a famous musician, they expect to hear their songs. More importantly, they expect to hear their voices.
Music history is filled with artists whose vocal qualities have become iconic in their own right, immediately distinctive and filled with incredible personality. Think of Mercury’s bombastic, four-octave vocal range that very few people on the planet are capable of replicating. Or Houston’s soulful, gospel-inspired technique, or Presley’s often-parodied stuttering Southern drawl. It’s not only difficult for an actor cast as these artists to live up to their singing — sometimes, it’s quite literally impossible.
For...
Music history is filled with artists whose vocal qualities have become iconic in their own right, immediately distinctive and filled with incredible personality. Think of Mercury’s bombastic, four-octave vocal range that very few people on the planet are capable of replicating. Or Houston’s soulful, gospel-inspired technique, or Presley’s often-parodied stuttering Southern drawl. It’s not only difficult for an actor cast as these artists to live up to their singing — sometimes, it’s quite literally impossible.
For...
- 4/12/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Starfish is quickly becoming one of The Masked Singer judges’ favorite contestants this season, despite them having absolutely no clue who she really is. (Seriously, those guesses have been way off.)
Based on the clues provided thus far, it’s clear to TVLine that Starfish — who returns to compete with the rest of Group A on Wednesday (Fox, 8/7c) — is Kate Flannery, best known for playing Meredith Palmer on all nine seasons of NBC’s The Office.
More from TVLineThe Cleaning Lady Reveals Arman's Fate in Emotional Episode 6The Masked Singer's Poodle Moth Revealed? This Is Us Placing Our BetsBeyoncé...
Based on the clues provided thus far, it’s clear to TVLine that Starfish — who returns to compete with the rest of Group A on Wednesday (Fox, 8/7c) — is Kate Flannery, best known for playing Meredith Palmer on all nine seasons of NBC’s The Office.
More from TVLineThe Cleaning Lady Reveals Arman's Fate in Emotional Episode 6The Masked Singer's Poodle Moth Revealed? This Is Us Placing Our BetsBeyoncé...
- 4/10/2024
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
Kevin Costner’s magnum opus, Horizon: An American Saga, is a monumental four-part project he’s co-writing, producing, and directing. Two parts of which are already set for simultaneous release this year itself. However, Costner has a wild dream for this Wild West story, he wishes for a time in no more than a couple of years when audiences can experience all four parts as one seamless theatrical event if everything goes according to his plan.
Kevin Costner in Horizon: An American Saga
In Two Years Fans Can Go for a 12-Hour Marathon Watch of the Horizon Saga in Theaters!
For the past 35 years, Kevin Costner, best known for his role in Yellowstone, has poured his heart and soul into this sprawling saga. With a premiere slated for the Cannes Film Festival followed by a theatrical release split into two parts to the masses, Costner’s vision is coming to life.
Kevin Costner in Horizon: An American Saga
In Two Years Fans Can Go for a 12-Hour Marathon Watch of the Horizon Saga in Theaters!
For the past 35 years, Kevin Costner, best known for his role in Yellowstone, has poured his heart and soul into this sprawling saga. With a premiere slated for the Cannes Film Festival followed by a theatrical release split into two parts to the masses, Costner’s vision is coming to life.
- 4/10/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
Kevin Costner has been in the entertainment industry for decades now. Although he kickstarted his career with the independent film Sizzle Beach, U.S.A., many consider his film debut to be 1983’s The Touch due to issues with the former’s documentation and release.
Kevin Costner in a still from Horizon: An American Saga
1987’s The Untouchables and No Way Out catapulted Costner to superstar status. Soon, after the success of his movie Dances with Wolves, which won 7 out of the 12 Academy Awards it was nominated for, he chose to go against all odds to cast the late singer Whitney Houston in the 1992 romantic drama The Bodyguard. He once revealed how he faced opposition for this decision and also the reason why some found the legendary singer unfit for the role.
Kevin Costner on His Decision to Star Against Whitney Houston Being Opposed
Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner in...
Kevin Costner in a still from Horizon: An American Saga
1987’s The Untouchables and No Way Out catapulted Costner to superstar status. Soon, after the success of his movie Dances with Wolves, which won 7 out of the 12 Academy Awards it was nominated for, he chose to go against all odds to cast the late singer Whitney Houston in the 1992 romantic drama The Bodyguard. He once revealed how he faced opposition for this decision and also the reason why some found the legendary singer unfit for the role.
Kevin Costner on His Decision to Star Against Whitney Houston Being Opposed
Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner in...
- 4/9/2024
- by Ankita
- FandomWire
Zendaya’s seemingly futuristic body armor actually has a long history steeped in cinema and pop culture.
At the root of it all is the likeness to the female robot, often called “Maria,” in Fritz Lang’s masterwork of futurism, Metropolis. Maria has inspired countless cultural references including the images of Lang’s robot used in David Bowie and Queen’s video for “Under Pressure”; a profound influence on Ralph McQuarrie’s designs for C-3Po in Star Wars; inspiring looks worn by Beyoncé, Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Lady Gaga; providing the concept of Janelle Monáe’s Metropolis: The Chase Suite album; and serving as a background for Whitney Houston’s music video for “Queen of the Night” as well references in the The Bodyguard.
The actual suit that Zendaya wore to the world premiere is an archival creation from fashion designer Thierry Mugler’s fall/winter 1995 couture collection. Per...
At the root of it all is the likeness to the female robot, often called “Maria,” in Fritz Lang’s masterwork of futurism, Metropolis. Maria has inspired countless cultural references including the images of Lang’s robot used in David Bowie and Queen’s video for “Under Pressure”; a profound influence on Ralph McQuarrie’s designs for C-3Po in Star Wars; inspiring looks worn by Beyoncé, Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Lady Gaga; providing the concept of Janelle Monáe’s Metropolis: The Chase Suite album; and serving as a background for Whitney Houston’s music video for “Queen of the Night” as well references in the The Bodyguard.
The actual suit that Zendaya wore to the world premiere is an archival creation from fashion designer Thierry Mugler’s fall/winter 1995 couture collection. Per...
- 4/9/2024
- by Robert Lang and Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Missy Elliott is ready to get her freak on her first-ever headlining tour.
The 52-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Famer will launch Out Of This World — The Missy Elliott Experience on July 4. The 24-city trek will visit cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta and Brooklyn, and will wrap on Aug. 22.
Her longtime collaborator and producing partner, Timbaland, will join her for the tour, along with Busta Rhymes and Ciara. Pre-sale tickets on sale Tuesday; general tickets go on sale Friday.
“This is an incredible time in my life as I am experiencing so many milestone ‘firsts.’ Being the First female Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and now going out on my First headline tour,” Elliott says in a statement. “Fans have been asking me to tour forever but I wanted to wait until I felt the time was right because I knew...
The 52-year-old Rock and Roll Hall of Famer will launch Out Of This World — The Missy Elliott Experience on July 4. The 24-city trek will visit cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta and Brooklyn, and will wrap on Aug. 22.
Her longtime collaborator and producing partner, Timbaland, will join her for the tour, along with Busta Rhymes and Ciara. Pre-sale tickets on sale Tuesday; general tickets go on sale Friday.
“This is an incredible time in my life as I am experiencing so many milestone ‘firsts.’ Being the First female Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and now going out on my First headline tour,” Elliott says in a statement. “Fans have been asking me to tour forever but I wanted to wait until I felt the time was right because I knew...
- 4/8/2024
- by Mesfin Fekadu
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Rita Ora has unveiled her Queen of Hearts costume for her role in 'Descendants: The Rise of Red'.The 33-year-old star showed off her red gown for the part she will play in the musical fantasy movie, which will be released on the streaming service Disney+ in July.Rita portrays the antagonist of Lewis Carroll's famous novel 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' and her alter ego is the mother of the film's lead character Red – who is played by YouTube star Kylie Cantrall.An Instagram post shared jointly by the 'Anywhere' singer and Disney was captioned: "All hail the Queen of Hearts. Descendants: #TheRiseofRed, a Disney Original Movie, is available July 12 on @disneyplus."The 'Descendants' series began back in 2015 and centres on the children of villains from Disney classics as they rebel against the evil antics of their parents.It is the latest acting...
- 4/5/2024
- by Joe Graber
- Bang Showbiz
Cash Cobain is leading a procession of young New Yorkers down Irving Place towards Union Square Park in Manhattan. It’s a sea of weed smoke and Hellstar hoodies, a few hundred deep, marching along like it was a parade. Cash, the 26-year-old rapper-producer responsible for the increasingly inescapable hits “Fisherrr,” and “Dunk Contest,” ushers the scene calmly, even as NYPD sirens sputter and wail in the background. His hand extends towards the sky as he live streams the whole thing on his Instagram. A homing beacon for the crowd,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Jeff Ihaza
- Rollingstone.com
Tonight on “The Voice,” the Battle Rounds end as Chance the Rapper, Dan + Shay, John Legend and Reba McEntire prepare their artists in hopes of advancing to the Knockouts. Each coach has one steal and one “Playoff Pass,” which sends an artist straight to the Playoffs. Follow along with our live blog below.
The four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series “The Voice” returns with the strongest vocalists from across the country invited to compete in the show’s newest season, which premiered February 26 on NBC (8pm Pt/Et). The show’s innovative format features five stages of competition: Blind Auditions, Battle Rounds, Knockouts, Playoffs and Live Performance Shows.
See Madison Curbelo, Serenity Arce, Bryan Olesen and Donny Van Slee are ‘The Voice’ favorites after blind auditions [Poll Results]
Below, read our minute-by-minute “The Voice” recap of Season 25, Episode 10 to find out what happened Tuesday, March 26 at 9:00 p.m. Et/Pt.
The four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series “The Voice” returns with the strongest vocalists from across the country invited to compete in the show’s newest season, which premiered February 26 on NBC (8pm Pt/Et). The show’s innovative format features five stages of competition: Blind Auditions, Battle Rounds, Knockouts, Playoffs and Live Performance Shows.
See Madison Curbelo, Serenity Arce, Bryan Olesen and Donny Van Slee are ‘The Voice’ favorites after blind auditions [Poll Results]
Below, read our minute-by-minute “The Voice” recap of Season 25, Episode 10 to find out what happened Tuesday, March 26 at 9:00 p.m. Et/Pt.
- 3/27/2024
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Season 25 of The Voice is not going well for NBC. Fans are not the least bit happy about how the current season is turning out. It appears NBC is doing nothing but give them reason after reason to stop watching their megahit reality television show.
The Voice Is Too Country
One of the biggest complaints fans of The Voice have is the reality show is too country. With the addition of Reba McEntire and Dan + Shay, they believe there are too many country artists appearing on the show and not enough artists from other music genres like rock and roll.
There have been several comments made on the different social media outlets to fire Reba McEntire. There have also been comments, calling for Dan + Shay to be fired as well. However, it is Reba McEntire taking most of the heat because it appears, she is the one judge they dislike the most.
The Voice Is Too Country
One of the biggest complaints fans of The Voice have is the reality show is too country. With the addition of Reba McEntire and Dan + Shay, they believe there are too many country artists appearing on the show and not enough artists from other music genres like rock and roll.
There have been several comments made on the different social media outlets to fire Reba McEntire. There have also been comments, calling for Dan + Shay to be fired as well. However, it is Reba McEntire taking most of the heat because it appears, she is the one judge they dislike the most.
- 3/26/2024
- by Emma Riley Sutton
- TV Shows Ace
Hollywood’s favorite couple, Zendaya and Tom Holland, took a break from their busy schedules to enjoy a delightful day together at the BNP Paribas Open on March 17th. The event, which saw Iga Świątek triumph in the Women’s Final, became the backdrop for the Spider-Man stars to showcase their affection and playful side.
Tom Holland and Zendaya in Spider-Man: Far From Home
The Tennis Tournament wasn’t just about fierce matches and pro players, it also offered glimpses of Zendaya and Holland’s sweet chemistry. Cameras caught the couple sharing a series of adorable gestures throughout the day that left fans swooning.
Zendaya and Tom Holland’s Heartwarming Moment at BNP Paribas Open
Zendaya and boyfriend Tom Holland (image via Instagram | @zendaya)
Zendaya and Tom Holland have remarkable chemistry that extends beyond the screen, making them beloved by fans. Despite being A-list celebrities, they come across as normal and down-to-earth.
Tom Holland and Zendaya in Spider-Man: Far From Home
The Tennis Tournament wasn’t just about fierce matches and pro players, it also offered glimpses of Zendaya and Holland’s sweet chemistry. Cameras caught the couple sharing a series of adorable gestures throughout the day that left fans swooning.
Zendaya and Tom Holland’s Heartwarming Moment at BNP Paribas Open
Zendaya and boyfriend Tom Holland (image via Instagram | @zendaya)
Zendaya and Tom Holland have remarkable chemistry that extends beyond the screen, making them beloved by fans. Despite being A-list celebrities, they come across as normal and down-to-earth.
- 3/18/2024
- by Shreya Jha
- FandomWire
Known for his comedic brilliance and jaw-dropping performances, Jamie Foxx has consistently entertained audiences with his charisma and talent. Foxx also is a decorated actor, including having won the most prestigious award in acting – the Academy Award.
Jamie Foxx || Spiderman: No Way Home
He took home the Oscar for his portrayal of Ray Charles Robinson in Taylor Hackford’s
Ray. However, Foxx had a surprising reaction to his golden statue. Forget the usual mantelpiece display – according to reports, Foxx opted not to handle his Oscar after a strange fear took hold.
SUGGESTEDJamie Foxx Got His Clothes Stolen From His Own Home After Refusing To Give Up a Recording of Whitney Houston
Jamie Foxx Did Not Take The Oscar Home Due To This Strange Fear
Jamie Foxx || Ray (2004)
Jamie Foxx‘s career boasts a long list of impressive films, but 2004 holds a special place. He landed a role alongside Tom Cruise...
Jamie Foxx || Spiderman: No Way Home
He took home the Oscar for his portrayal of Ray Charles Robinson in Taylor Hackford’s
Ray. However, Foxx had a surprising reaction to his golden statue. Forget the usual mantelpiece display – according to reports, Foxx opted not to handle his Oscar after a strange fear took hold.
SUGGESTEDJamie Foxx Got His Clothes Stolen From His Own Home After Refusing To Give Up a Recording of Whitney Houston
Jamie Foxx Did Not Take The Oscar Home Due To This Strange Fear
Jamie Foxx || Ray (2004)
Jamie Foxx‘s career boasts a long list of impressive films, but 2004 holds a special place. He landed a role alongside Tom Cruise...
- 3/17/2024
- by Piyush Yadav
- FandomWire
Ariana Grande and Bowen Young could not keep it together during a sketch on Saturday Night Live tonight.
The pair brought to life songs that did not make it into the hit film Moulin Rouge which included “Up Where We Belong,” originally sung by Jennifer Warnes and Joe Cocker; “Do-Re-Mi” by Julie Andrews; “Creep” by TLC; “Happy Birthday”; and “Pride (In the Name of Love)” by U2 among others.
While they made it nearly all the way through the sketch before breaking character, Yang began to lose focus while performing Shania Twain’s hit song “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” He continued to have a fit of giggles as he and Grande sang “Happy Birthday” for the umpteenth time leading the latter also to break character. It only gets worse when the comedian dips the singer and attempts to sing “I Will Always Love You,” written by Dolly Parton...
The pair brought to life songs that did not make it into the hit film Moulin Rouge which included “Up Where We Belong,” originally sung by Jennifer Warnes and Joe Cocker; “Do-Re-Mi” by Julie Andrews; “Creep” by TLC; “Happy Birthday”; and “Pride (In the Name of Love)” by U2 among others.
While they made it nearly all the way through the sketch before breaking character, Yang began to lose focus while performing Shania Twain’s hit song “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” He continued to have a fit of giggles as he and Grande sang “Happy Birthday” for the umpteenth time leading the latter also to break character. It only gets worse when the comedian dips the singer and attempts to sing “I Will Always Love You,” written by Dolly Parton...
- 3/10/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Ariana Grande wasn’t just the musical guest during the March 9 episode of “Saturday Night Live.” While she took the stage to perform two songs from “Eternal Sunshine,” her just-released sixth album, “We Can’t Be Friends” and “Imperfect For You” — and was introduced by her mom, Joan Grande, for the second number — she also took on two different sketches.
After appearing as a patient in a group therapy session during the first half of the show, she was invited back to the stage later on in the night for a “Moulin Rouge” spoof, giving her the opportunity to sing covers of multiple hit songs.
The sketch created a PBS special, hosted by Mikey Day, taking a look at what the “Elephant Love Medley” would have looked like had director Baz Luhrmann known they’d be able to get the rights to other love songs; Bowen Yang and Grande played Christian and Satine,...
After appearing as a patient in a group therapy session during the first half of the show, she was invited back to the stage later on in the night for a “Moulin Rouge” spoof, giving her the opportunity to sing covers of multiple hit songs.
The sketch created a PBS special, hosted by Mikey Day, taking a look at what the “Elephant Love Medley” would have looked like had director Baz Luhrmann known they’d be able to get the rights to other love songs; Bowen Yang and Grande played Christian and Satine,...
- 3/10/2024
- by Emily Longeretta
- Variety Film + TV
Elvis Presley‘s “In the Ghetto” is one of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll‘s most famous songs, so it’s difficult to imagine a world where another singer released it first. The writer of the song debunked a rumor that the tune was originally meant for Sammy Davis Jr. He also revealed why he thought the track would have worked for Davis. In contrast, one of Elvis’ girlfriends recalled Davis getting offered the song first.
The writer of Elvis Presley’s ‘In the Ghetto’ wanted Sammy Davis Jr. to sing it
Mac Davis was the writer behind several Elvis songs, including “A Little Less Conversation” and “In the Ghetto.” During a 2010 interview with Smashing Interviews Magazine, he was asked if the rumor was true that he originally pitched the track to Sammy. “That’s not true,” he said. “I took it to Sammy later.
“I was trying to...
The writer of Elvis Presley’s ‘In the Ghetto’ wanted Sammy Davis Jr. to sing it
Mac Davis was the writer behind several Elvis songs, including “A Little Less Conversation” and “In the Ghetto.” During a 2010 interview with Smashing Interviews Magazine, he was asked if the rumor was true that he originally pitched the track to Sammy. “That’s not true,” he said. “I took it to Sammy later.
“I was trying to...
- 3/9/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Were you as impressed as we were when Starfish raised her voice in song for the first time on “The Masked Singer”? She wowed us with her flawless cover of the Madonna classic “Material Girl” on the March 6 episode. We’ve rewatched that performance by Starfish and her clues package. Forget those guesses by the judges that Starfish is Catherine O’Hara, Cheri Oteri or Molly Shannon. We are sure we know Starfish’s true identity. Keep reading as we have all your “The Masked Singer” spoilers, including the answer to the question, “Who is Starfish?”
We are convinced that Starfish is Kate Flannery, the veteran scene stealer from the long-running comedy series “The Office.” Don’t believe us? Besides the fact that the Starfish sounds just like her, consider how so many of the clues fit in with the life of Kate Flannery.
In her clue package Starfish reveals, “when...
We are convinced that Starfish is Kate Flannery, the veteran scene stealer from the long-running comedy series “The Office.” Don’t believe us? Besides the fact that the Starfish sounds just like her, consider how so many of the clues fit in with the life of Kate Flannery.
In her clue package Starfish reveals, “when...
- 3/7/2024
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Spoiler Alert: Do not read ahead if you have not watched the Season 11 season premiere of “The Masked Singer,” which aired March 6 on Fox.
“The Masked Singer” kicked off its 11th season on Wednesday night — and in perhaps the show’s most unusual reveal ever, comedian Kevin Hart brought his prank war with host Nick Cannon to the show.
Hart brought his one-night-only appearance to “The Masked Singer” as Book, singing the song “So Sick,” by Ne-Yo (who happened to be the Season 10 winner on the show). The performance… was a bit pitchy, dawg. At the end of the song, the show’s panelists seemed to dig it. But after Robin Thicke quickly I.D.’ed Hart, the star took off his costume to reveal himself.
“This is a prank, you had no idea I was coming here Nick, and guess what, there’s nothing you can do about it,...
“The Masked Singer” kicked off its 11th season on Wednesday night — and in perhaps the show’s most unusual reveal ever, comedian Kevin Hart brought his prank war with host Nick Cannon to the show.
Hart brought his one-night-only appearance to “The Masked Singer” as Book, singing the song “So Sick,” by Ne-Yo (who happened to be the Season 10 winner on the show). The performance… was a bit pitchy, dawg. At the end of the song, the show’s panelists seemed to dig it. But after Robin Thicke quickly I.D.’ed Hart, the star took off his costume to reveal himself.
“This is a prank, you had no idea I was coming here Nick, and guess what, there’s nothing you can do about it,...
- 3/7/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Amid a very busy week of Oscar events, Sean Penn’s relief organization Core took a moment to shift the focus from toasting this year’s top films to raising money for ongoing crises around the world.
At Core’s Pre-Oscars Benefit on Tuesday — sponsored by The Hollywood Reporter and Dodge — $1.4 million was raised to finance the group’s humanitarian work, with support from a star-studded group of attendees. Penn, Core CEO Ann Lee and CAA’s Bryan Lourd (who is both Penn’s agent and a Core board member) co-hosted the event, held at a private residence in Laurel Canyon, while Bill Burr served as the night’s emcee.
“This is such a wonderful organization — I’ve done so many benefits in my stand-up career where the charity was B.S., like 10 percent of 10 percent went to something,” Burr told guests at the beginning of the night. “This is actually...
At Core’s Pre-Oscars Benefit on Tuesday — sponsored by The Hollywood Reporter and Dodge — $1.4 million was raised to finance the group’s humanitarian work, with support from a star-studded group of attendees. Penn, Core CEO Ann Lee and CAA’s Bryan Lourd (who is both Penn’s agent and a Core board member) co-hosted the event, held at a private residence in Laurel Canyon, while Bill Burr served as the night’s emcee.
“This is such a wonderful organization — I’ve done so many benefits in my stand-up career where the charity was B.S., like 10 percent of 10 percent went to something,” Burr told guests at the beginning of the night. “This is actually...
- 3/6/2024
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Elvis Presley was known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, but he wasn’t known for his musings on the afterlife. Regardless, Elvis’ girlfriend said that he had some strong opinions on heaven. He was influenced by one denomination of Christianity in particular. Notably, Priscilla Presley feels she has had spiritual experiences with Elvis well after his death.
Elvis Presley thought the afterlife was open to non-Christians
Linda Thompson was Elvis’ girlfriend from 1972 to 1976. She would later become a professional songwriter. She might be most known for penning Whitney Houston’s classic ballad “I Have Nothing” from the soundtrack of The Bodyguard. More recently, that song has been covered by Ariana Grande.
In her 2016 book A Little Thing Called Life, Thompson described the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll as a Christian with an inclusive theology. “Elvis was very humble about his place in the cosmos and had an abiding faith in Jesus,...
Elvis Presley thought the afterlife was open to non-Christians
Linda Thompson was Elvis’ girlfriend from 1972 to 1976. She would later become a professional songwriter. She might be most known for penning Whitney Houston’s classic ballad “I Have Nothing” from the soundtrack of The Bodyguard. More recently, that song has been covered by Ariana Grande.
In her 2016 book A Little Thing Called Life, Thompson described the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll as a Christian with an inclusive theology. “Elvis was very humble about his place in the cosmos and had an abiding faith in Jesus,...
- 3/5/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s girlfriend revealed the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll had some interesting thoughts about this life and the next. She even said that Elvis’ spiritual beliefs influenced how he dressed. Priscilla Presley shared some similar memories in a famous book.
Elvis Presley’s girlfriend said he believed in Jesus and a Hindu saint
Linda Thompson was Elvis’s girlfriend from 1972 to 1976. She was a beauty pageant contestant and a songwriter, penning tunes for Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, and the Backstreet Boys. While the media has a history of ignoring her, she’s an important part of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s life story.
In her 2016 book A Little Thing Called Life, Thompson had a lot to say about Elvis’s spiritual beliefs and practices. “I think at the core of his being, and at the core of his belief, Elvis was a Christian, and...
Elvis Presley’s girlfriend said he believed in Jesus and a Hindu saint
Linda Thompson was Elvis’s girlfriend from 1972 to 1976. She was a beauty pageant contestant and a songwriter, penning tunes for Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, and the Backstreet Boys. While the media has a history of ignoring her, she’s an important part of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s life story.
In her 2016 book A Little Thing Called Life, Thompson had a lot to say about Elvis’s spiritual beliefs and practices. “I think at the core of his being, and at the core of his belief, Elvis was a Christian, and...
- 3/4/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
At least some of the Backstreet Boys’ songs have the timeless quality of The Beatles‘ songs. The writer of many Backstreet Boys tunes said he drew influence from The Beatles to write a very odd line. While the lyric might raise eyebrows, it certainly worked out for the Backstreet Boys.
A Backstreet Boys song was inspired by perceived gibberish from The Beatles
Max Martin is a Swedish songwriter who penned hits for the Backstreet Boys (“I Want It That Way”), Britney Spears, Ariana Grande “(“Break Free”), Taylor Swift (“Shake It Off”), and numerous other singers. He co-wrote and co-produced the Backstreet Boys’ “Shape of My Heart.” That tune includes the oddball lyrics “Sadness is beautiful/ Loneliness is tragical.”
During a 2019 interview with The Telegraph, Martin explained why he sometimes coins new words in his songs. “I grew up on Elton John and The Beatles and I had no idea what they were saying,...
A Backstreet Boys song was inspired by perceived gibberish from The Beatles
Max Martin is a Swedish songwriter who penned hits for the Backstreet Boys (“I Want It That Way”), Britney Spears, Ariana Grande “(“Break Free”), Taylor Swift (“Shake It Off”), and numerous other singers. He co-wrote and co-produced the Backstreet Boys’ “Shape of My Heart.” That tune includes the oddball lyrics “Sadness is beautiful/ Loneliness is tragical.”
During a 2019 interview with The Telegraph, Martin explained why he sometimes coins new words in his songs. “I grew up on Elton John and The Beatles and I had no idea what they were saying,...
- 2/29/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Days after Paramount’s Bob Marley: One Love overperformed in its opening weekend at the box office, Sony Pictures chief Tom Rothman stole a bit of the spotlight Feb. 20 in unveiling not one but four intersecting feature films from Sam Mendes about The Beatles, each focusing on one member of the Fab Four: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr.
“You have to match the boldness of the idea with a bold release strategy,” Rothman tells The Hollywood Reporter about the project that earned the Oscar-winning director a coveted signoff from the group’s selective label Apple Corps. “There hasn’t been an enterprise like this before, and you can’t think about it in traditional releasing terms.”
Sony hopes the films, which don’t yet have writers on board, will begin shooting in the U.K. in mid-2025 to make the planned 2027 release for all four titles,...
“You have to match the boldness of the idea with a bold release strategy,” Rothman tells The Hollywood Reporter about the project that earned the Oscar-winning director a coveted signoff from the group’s selective label Apple Corps. “There hasn’t been an enterprise like this before, and you can’t think about it in traditional releasing terms.”
Sony hopes the films, which don’t yet have writers on board, will begin shooting in the U.K. in mid-2025 to make the planned 2027 release for all four titles,...
- 2/28/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Credit: Bfa / Warner Bros (Alamy) By 1991, the late Whitney Houston had already conquered the music industry, scoring nine #1 hits, selling more than 50 million albums worldwide, and earning 10 Grammy Awards nominations (winning twice). And while she’d made a few appearances on episodic TV shows — mostly playing herself — an acting career had been something she’d had on her radar for a long time. It looked like that would come to fruition when she was approached to play the lead role in The Bodyguard, a film that had been in development for many years. As much as she wanted to land a movie, though, Houston almost turned down the role. When the movie was initially released in 1992, she said it was her co-star, Kevin Costner, who ultimately convinced her to make the film. (Click on the media bar below to hear Whitney Houston) https://www.hollywoodoutbreak.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Whitney-houston-kevin-costner-bodyguard.mp...
- 2/26/2024
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Sony Music launches legal action over the 2022 film, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody. More on the story here.
Here’s a bit of an odd one. In 2022, Sony Pictures Releasing put into cinemas Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody, the biopic of the late Whitney Houston. It was, in hindsight, the wrong film at the wrong time, grossing just shy of $60m off its $45m budget, in spite of a powerhouse lead performance by Naomi Ackie. At the time it landed in cinemas, Avatar: The Way Of Water was vacuuming up all the money in the world, and Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody never really stood a chance.
Now, the film – again, released by Sony Pictures Releasing – is being sued by, er, Sony Music.
The litigation isn’t Sony suing itself, though. Rather, it’s taken aim at four companies that were involved in the making of the film,...
Here’s a bit of an odd one. In 2022, Sony Pictures Releasing put into cinemas Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody, the biopic of the late Whitney Houston. It was, in hindsight, the wrong film at the wrong time, grossing just shy of $60m off its $45m budget, in spite of a powerhouse lead performance by Naomi Ackie. At the time it landed in cinemas, Avatar: The Way Of Water was vacuuming up all the money in the world, and Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody never really stood a chance.
Now, the film – again, released by Sony Pictures Releasing – is being sued by, er, Sony Music.
The litigation isn’t Sony suing itself, though. Rather, it’s taken aim at four companies that were involved in the making of the film,...
- 2/26/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
Most things about life are unpredictable, be it the life of people in general or that of celebrities. But some people’s lives take this unpredictability to a whole another level of hilarity, and Jamie Foxx’s life falls in this second category.
This comes after the actor shared the story of the hilariously unexpected event where he got his clothes stolen from his very own house after he refused to give away a live recording of the late singer Whitney Houston.
Jamie Foxx as Eric Marlon Bishop
This happened back in the day when Foxx used to do Karaokes, and celebrities used to show up to them as well. Of these celebrities were none other than Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston, where Brown forgot the lyrics and the fact that those were written onscreen since it was karaoke, while Houston killed it with her voice. But what was more...
This comes after the actor shared the story of the hilariously unexpected event where he got his clothes stolen from his very own house after he refused to give away a live recording of the late singer Whitney Houston.
Jamie Foxx as Eric Marlon Bishop
This happened back in the day when Foxx used to do Karaokes, and celebrities used to show up to them as well. Of these celebrities were none other than Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston, where Brown forgot the lyrics and the fact that those were written onscreen since it was karaoke, while Houston killed it with her voice. But what was more...
- 2/20/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
In 2017, I ended my marriage of almost 12 years. It wasn’t one big betrayal. No one was a villain, not really. What happened was the oppressive weight of being a wife and mother and the burden of heterosexual marriage broke me. Three years later, in 2020, I realized I wasn’t alone. That the cultural weight of society keeps slipping onto the shoulders of mothers and wives. We are breaking. My book This American Ex Wife examines the way marriage is inherently unequal, and the way our culture defines love as misery,...
- 2/16/2024
- by Lyz Lenz
- Rollingstone.com
Production is officially underway for Obsessed, a new, Broadway-bound Diane Warren bio-musical: Producers announced today that licensing deals are set for songs that will be featured in the score, including the Taylor Swift hit “Say Don’t Go.”
A successful developmental workshop was held in New York City last year, directed by three-time Tony Award-winner Kathleen Marshall with a book by two-time Tony winner Joe Dipietro. Michael Cohl and Irit TenHengel, who announced the licensing deals today, formed a partnership to produce the musical on Broadway.
A full production schedule, casting and additional creative team will be announced soon.
Although a list of songs to be included in the musical was not released, producers said they secured rights to Warren-penned songs made famous by, in addition to Swift, Beyonce, Cher, Aerosmith, Toni Braxton, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga and more.
From the synopsis: “Diane, who was diagnosed early on with Asperger’s Syndrome,...
A successful developmental workshop was held in New York City last year, directed by three-time Tony Award-winner Kathleen Marshall with a book by two-time Tony winner Joe Dipietro. Michael Cohl and Irit TenHengel, who announced the licensing deals today, formed a partnership to produce the musical on Broadway.
A full production schedule, casting and additional creative team will be announced soon.
Although a list of songs to be included in the musical was not released, producers said they secured rights to Warren-penned songs made famous by, in addition to Swift, Beyonce, Cher, Aerosmith, Toni Braxton, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga and more.
From the synopsis: “Diane, who was diagnosed early on with Asperger’s Syndrome,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
February 2024 is, in all likelihood, going to be one of the worst months at the box office in quite some time. January was rough with very few new releases to help keep theaters afloat, and now the 2023 holdovers like "Wonka" and "Anyone But You" are running out of steam. With "Argylle" also failing to do big numbers, things have gone from bad to worse. Valentine's Day will see potential help arrive in the form of "Bob Marley: One Love," with the musical biopic seeking to capitalize on not one, but two different holidays as it will also benefit from President's Day that following Monday. So, can this Bob Marley biopic pull an "Elvis" and become a breakthrough hit?
Paramount Pictures is releasing the film mid-week on Wednesday timed to Valentine's Day. It will be opening directly against Sony's latest Marvel Comics adaptation "Madame Web." On paper, at least, those...
Paramount Pictures is releasing the film mid-week on Wednesday timed to Valentine's Day. It will be opening directly against Sony's latest Marvel Comics adaptation "Madame Web." On paper, at least, those...
- 2/9/2024
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Frank Sinatra was the odds-on favorite to be the big winner at the inaugural Grammy Awards in 1959, but — perhaps as an early indicator that things wouldn’t always go to plan at the Grammys — ‘Ol Blue Eyes lost out on both Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
The music industry’s most recognized awards were established in 1958 by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in the United States.
The first Grammy ceremony was held on May 4, 1959, with only 28 categories, a number that since has swelled past 100 and now settled at 91. It was attended by many of music’s elite. Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, Gene Autry, Johnny Mercer, Henry Mancini and André Previn gathered for a black-tie dinner and awards presentation inside the Grand Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton.
While Sinatra led all nominees with a grand total of six, he would not turn...
The music industry’s most recognized awards were established in 1958 by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in the United States.
The first Grammy ceremony was held on May 4, 1959, with only 28 categories, a number that since has swelled past 100 and now settled at 91. It was attended by many of music’s elite. Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, Gene Autry, Johnny Mercer, Henry Mancini and André Previn gathered for a black-tie dinner and awards presentation inside the Grand Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton.
While Sinatra led all nominees with a grand total of six, he would not turn...
- 2/5/2024
- by Robert Lang
- Deadline Film + TV
The annual Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala is much like a Rolling Stones tour: For years, those who have been lucky enough to attend wonder if they just saw the last show. And yet somehow, a bit unbelievably, there’s always one more.
Forty years in, the gala was back at the Beverly Hilton once again, remaining the Grammy Week’s marquee people-watching event as an impressive collection of stars including Mariah Carey, Meryl Streep, Cameron Crowe, Julia Garner, Ted Danson, Forest Whitaker, Renee Rapp and many others piled into the hotel ballroom.
Forty years in, the gala was back at the Beverly Hilton once again, remaining the Grammy Week’s marquee people-watching event as an impressive collection of stars including Mariah Carey, Meryl Streep, Cameron Crowe, Julia Garner, Ted Danson, Forest Whitaker, Renee Rapp and many others piled into the hotel ballroom.
- 2/4/2024
- by Ethan Millman
- Rollingstone.com
Who will win Record of the Year at the 2024 Grammys? This award goes to the artists, producers, and engineers of the year’s best single. This is different from Song of the Year, which goes specifically to songwriters. Commercial success is typically a major factor in this race, like reigning champion “About Damn Time” by Lizzo, so will the next winner be a big hit as well? Scroll down to see our official racetrack odds, which are calculated based on the combined predictions of Gold Derby users. The odds are always changing, so we’ll be updating this list regularly as the season progresses.
For most of history there were five Grammy nominees in the Record of the Year category, same as there were for Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. From 2019 to 2021 there were eight Grammy slots in those races. In 2022 the academy further expanded that to 10 slots.
For most of history there were five Grammy nominees in the Record of the Year category, same as there were for Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. From 2019 to 2021 there were eight Grammy slots in those races. In 2022 the academy further expanded that to 10 slots.
- 2/2/2024
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
It’s been almost 20 years since Mariah Carey last won a Grammy, so when she received the Global Impact Award from the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective, she offered a dose of her signature comical shade.
“Is this a real Grammy? I haven’t seen one in soooooo long,” she said Thursday night as she held the award.
“It’s weird. I don’t know,” Carey continued while laughing as the audience at the Fairmont Century Plaza cheered her on. “We’ll figure out what this is later.”
Carey is easily one of the best-selling acts of all-time and holds the record for most No. 1 hits — 20 — by a solo artist. She’s been nominated for 34 Grammys, winning five: best new artist and best female pop vocal performance (“Vision of Love”) in 1991, as well as three R&b honors at the 2006 ceremony for “We Belong Together” and The Emancipation of Mimi.
“Is this a real Grammy? I haven’t seen one in soooooo long,” she said Thursday night as she held the award.
“It’s weird. I don’t know,” Carey continued while laughing as the audience at the Fairmont Century Plaza cheered her on. “We’ll figure out what this is later.”
Carey is easily one of the best-selling acts of all-time and holds the record for most No. 1 hits — 20 — by a solo artist. She’s been nominated for 34 Grammys, winning five: best new artist and best female pop vocal performance (“Vision of Love”) in 1991, as well as three R&b honors at the 2006 ceremony for “We Belong Together” and The Emancipation of Mimi.
- 2/2/2024
- by Mesfin Fekadu
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
John Galliano, 63, the creative director of Maison Martin Margiela, had the tough task of closing the Paris haute couture season (which has seen stunning shows from such houses as Valentino and Schiaparelli), a challenge he met with an extremely fascinating show. It was an extraordinary portrayal of Paris’ famous historical figures that seemed to have stepped out of an Émile Zola novel.
Galliano presented Margiela’s new Spring Summer 2024 artisanal collection inside an abandoned, vaulted-ceiling venue along the Seine, transformed into a decadent bistro where a range of French archetypes took center stage, from the shapely and brazen courtesans of the past — such as Madame Pompadour or Jeanne du Barry — to the sensual and devilish Moulin Rouge dancers, as well as nocturnal gamblers and cat burglars.
French performer and drag queen “Lucky Love,” a Freddie Mercury impersonator, gave the opening wearing a man’s overcoat, then stripped it off to...
Galliano presented Margiela’s new Spring Summer 2024 artisanal collection inside an abandoned, vaulted-ceiling venue along the Seine, transformed into a decadent bistro where a range of French archetypes took center stage, from the shapely and brazen courtesans of the past — such as Madame Pompadour or Jeanne du Barry — to the sensual and devilish Moulin Rouge dancers, as well as nocturnal gamblers and cat burglars.
French performer and drag queen “Lucky Love,” a Freddie Mercury impersonator, gave the opening wearing a man’s overcoat, then stripped it off to...
- 1/30/2024
- by Pino Gagliardi
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Before “Rain on Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande and “Kiss Me More” by Doja Cat and Sza became Grammy-winning female collabs, there was a combo of women that managed to snag a big win in the pop field: Christina Aguilera’s “Lady Marmalade” featuring Pink, Lil Kim, and Mýa. The star-studded collaboration, a cover of the number-one hit made famous by the group Labelle, solidified all four artists as pop mainstays, and made history at the Grammys as a diverse, all-female win.
The 2001 “Lady Marmalade” was released in April of that year as part of the soundtrack for “Moulin Rouge,” the Oscar-winning Baz Luhrmann film. The track was quite unusual, on paper. Pink, Lil Kim, Mýa, and Aguilera made very different music, ranging from pop to hip-hop to R&b. On top of that, the track was produced by the iconic Missy Elliott, giving it yet more star cred.
The 2001 “Lady Marmalade” was released in April of that year as part of the soundtrack for “Moulin Rouge,” the Oscar-winning Baz Luhrmann film. The track was quite unusual, on paper. Pink, Lil Kim, Mýa, and Aguilera made very different music, ranging from pop to hip-hop to R&b. On top of that, the track was produced by the iconic Missy Elliott, giving it yet more star cred.
- 1/29/2024
- by Jaime Rodriguez
- Gold Derby
Universal have optioned the rights for a film charting the life of the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s frontman, Anthony Kiedis. More here:
It looks like we might be getting another high-profile music biopic to add to the increasingly large collection that has formed over the last few years. The huge commercial success of 2018’s Bohemian Rhapsody continues to influence studio thinking as just last year we saw a Whitney Houston biopic, an Elvis one, a Weird Al Yankovic biopic and Maestro, a tale focused on the life of Leonard Bernstein.
There’s more to come too: we’ve got biopics of Bob Marley, Madonna and Amy Winehouse all in different states of development, and now you can add The Red Hot Chili Peppers to the mix – or one of them at least. According to Deadline, Universal has optioned the rights to Anthony Kiedis’ memoir, Scar Tissue, the ‘warts and...
It looks like we might be getting another high-profile music biopic to add to the increasingly large collection that has formed over the last few years. The huge commercial success of 2018’s Bohemian Rhapsody continues to influence studio thinking as just last year we saw a Whitney Houston biopic, an Elvis one, a Weird Al Yankovic biopic and Maestro, a tale focused on the life of Leonard Bernstein.
There’s more to come too: we’ve got biopics of Bob Marley, Madonna and Amy Winehouse all in different states of development, and now you can add The Red Hot Chili Peppers to the mix – or one of them at least. According to Deadline, Universal has optioned the rights to Anthony Kiedis’ memoir, Scar Tissue, the ‘warts and...
- 1/18/2024
- by Dan Cooper
- Film Stories
A new documentary aims to add depth to the story of the singer-songwriter who was often just referred to as the wife of Johnny Cash
Crazy was most famously sung by Patsy Cline but written by Willie Nelson. I Will Always Love You was most famously sung by Whitney Houston but written by Dolly Parton. Ring of Fire, a love song reeking of sulphur and damnation, took off when Johnny Cash sang it on his 1963 album Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash.
But it was written by his wife, June Carter Cash, a singer, songwriter, musician, actor and author who spent much of her career in his shadow. “I feel aggrieved on her behalf,” says Kristen Vaurio, 46, director of a new documentary, June, which shines a light on one of music’s hidden figures.
Crazy was most famously sung by Patsy Cline but written by Willie Nelson. I Will Always Love You was most famously sung by Whitney Houston but written by Dolly Parton. Ring of Fire, a love song reeking of sulphur and damnation, took off when Johnny Cash sang it on his 1963 album Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash.
But it was written by his wife, June Carter Cash, a singer, songwriter, musician, actor and author who spent much of her career in his shadow. “I feel aggrieved on her behalf,” says Kristen Vaurio, 46, director of a new documentary, June, which shines a light on one of music’s hidden figures.
- 1/17/2024
- by David Smith in Washington
- The Guardian - Film News
Few names reverberate through the history of music, like Whitney Houston. Her fame and success cut across several generations, making Whitney Houston one of the greatest singers of all time. With over 220 million records sold (long before the era of music streams), Houston is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. The eight-time Grammy winner not only captivated millions of fans through her voice but was also known for her acting performances. Although she starred in only a few films on the big and small screen, Whitney Houston’s performance left audiences in awe of her acting, beauty,...
- 1/17/2024
- by Onyinye Izundu
- TVovermind.com
Dolly Parton was born January 10, 1946 as the fourth of 12 children in Tennessee. What her family lacked in money was more than made up in love and support, and a young Parton was inspired by her upbringing and surroundings, sparking her love of music. By the age of 13, she was learning guitar, writing music and performing; upon high school graduation, she moved to Nashville and embarked on one of the most successful careers in musical history. Well beyond her country and pop career, she was a 2022 inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
She pleaded with Jolene to stay away from her man. She shared her stories of growing up simple and poor, but loved, in her Tennessee mountain home, where her mother made her a coat of many colors. She’s a feminist who demands that standards shouldn’t be different for her just because she’s a...
She pleaded with Jolene to stay away from her man. She shared her stories of growing up simple and poor, but loved, in her Tennessee mountain home, where her mother made her a coat of many colors. She’s a feminist who demands that standards shouldn’t be different for her just because she’s a...
- 1/13/2024
- by Susan Pennington, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
Reggie Wells, who served as Oprah Winfrey’s personal makeup artist for nearly three decades, died Monday of natural causes in his hometown of Baltimore, The Baltimore Banner reported. He was 76.
Wells’ clients also included Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin, Joan Rivers, Whitney Houston, Halle Berry, Diahann Carroll, Robin Givens and Lauryn Hill.
Wells received five Daytime Emmy nominations for his work on The Oprah Winfrey Show, winning in 1995. He also appeared on her talk show and traveled all around the world with her, including to South Africa when she opened a school for girls.
“Reggie Wells was an artist who used his palette of talent to create beauty no matter the canvas,” Winfrey said in a statement. “For many years he was my makeup artist. He called me and everyone he considered a friend ‘Mary.’ He always made me feel beautiful. Ooh my, how we’d laugh and laugh during the process.
Wells’ clients also included Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin, Joan Rivers, Whitney Houston, Halle Berry, Diahann Carroll, Robin Givens and Lauryn Hill.
Wells received five Daytime Emmy nominations for his work on The Oprah Winfrey Show, winning in 1995. He also appeared on her talk show and traveled all around the world with her, including to South Africa when she opened a school for girls.
“Reggie Wells was an artist who used his palette of talent to create beauty no matter the canvas,” Winfrey said in a statement. “For many years he was my makeup artist. He called me and everyone he considered a friend ‘Mary.’ He always made me feel beautiful. Ooh my, how we’d laugh and laugh during the process.
- 1/11/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Last year, Kevin Costner could not attend the Golden Globes where he won the award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his starring role in Yellowstone. While not nominated this year, he was back as a presenter, paired with America Ferrera of the most nominated movie, blockbuster Barbie.
Ferrera opened their banter by admitting what a big fan she is of Costner’s, telling him that the emotional goodbye scene in The Bodyguard between Costner and Whitney Houston set to the late singer’s rendition to “I Will Always Love You” gives her chills.
Costner returned the favor by reciting Ferrera’s now-famous monologue from Barbie, in which her character tells Margot Robbie’s Barbie, “It’s literally impossible to be a woman. You’re so beautiful you’re so smart, and kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough.”
“Did you,...
Ferrera opened their banter by admitting what a big fan she is of Costner’s, telling him that the emotional goodbye scene in The Bodyguard between Costner and Whitney Houston set to the late singer’s rendition to “I Will Always Love You” gives her chills.
Costner returned the favor by reciting Ferrera’s now-famous monologue from Barbie, in which her character tells Margot Robbie’s Barbie, “It’s literally impossible to be a woman. You’re so beautiful you’re so smart, and kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough.”
“Did you,...
- 1/8/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
In the 2010s, “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele became one of the most ubiquitous and beloved songs ever. Aretha Franklin first heard it while watching television. Franklin revealed what she thought of the song and Adele as an artist.
Aretha Franklin heard some kids ‘screaming’ the melody of Adele’s ‘Rolling in the Deep’
During a 2014 interview with Rolling Stone, the Queen of Soul discussed hearing children sing “Rolling in the Deep.” “I saw one of Adele’s promo pieces, and kids were on a bus singing ‘We could’ve had it all,'” he said. “They were just screaming it. But I was listening to the melody, I said, ‘That’s a good melody, I like that melody.'”
Franklin compared Adele to one of the most acclaimed songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s. “She’s a very, very fine, solid writer,” Franklin said. “I like her writing a lot.
Aretha Franklin heard some kids ‘screaming’ the melody of Adele’s ‘Rolling in the Deep’
During a 2014 interview with Rolling Stone, the Queen of Soul discussed hearing children sing “Rolling in the Deep.” “I saw one of Adele’s promo pieces, and kids were on a bus singing ‘We could’ve had it all,'” he said. “They were just screaming it. But I was listening to the melody, I said, ‘That’s a good melody, I like that melody.'”
Franklin compared Adele to one of the most acclaimed songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s. “She’s a very, very fine, solid writer,” Franklin said. “I like her writing a lot.
- 1/4/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The very idea of Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston collaborating is breathtaking. Carey discussed what it was like getting to know Houston while they worked on the movie The Prince of Egypt. She also revealed that something about the creative process irked her.
Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston did a song by a Broadway titan for ‘The Prince of Egypt’
In her 2020 book The Meaning of Mariah Carey, the “Touch My Body” singer recalled producer Jeffrey Katzenberg asking her to perform “When You Believe” with Houston for The Prince of Egypt. Katzenberg was a Disney producer who later went on to co-found DreamWorks Skg. Neither singer had anything to do with the writing of the song. “When You Believe” was by Stephen Schwartz, who is known for writing tunes for Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and Enchanted. He also wrote the Broadway musicals Wicked, Pippin, and Godspell. While he’s...
Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston did a song by a Broadway titan for ‘The Prince of Egypt’
In her 2020 book The Meaning of Mariah Carey, the “Touch My Body” singer recalled producer Jeffrey Katzenberg asking her to perform “When You Believe” with Houston for The Prince of Egypt. Katzenberg was a Disney producer who later went on to co-found DreamWorks Skg. Neither singer had anything to do with the writing of the song. “When You Believe” was by Stephen Schwartz, who is known for writing tunes for Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and Enchanted. He also wrote the Broadway musicals Wicked, Pippin, and Godspell. While he’s...
- 1/3/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The very idea of Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston collaborating is breathtaking. Carey discussed what it was like getting to know Houston while they worked on the movie The Prince of Egypt. She also revealed that something about the creative process irked her.
Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston did a song by a Broadway titan for ‘The Prince of Egypt’
In her 2020 book The Meaning of Mariah Carey, the “Touch My Body” singer recalled producer Jeffrey Katzenberg asking her to perform “When You Believe” with Houston for The Prince of Egypt. Katzenberg was a Disney producer who later went on to co-found DreamWorks Skg. Neither singer had anything to do with the writing of the song. “When You Believe” was by Stephen Schwartz, who is known for writing tunes for Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and Enchanted. He also wrote the Broadway musicals Wicked, Pippin, and Godspell. While he’s...
Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston did a song by a Broadway titan for ‘The Prince of Egypt’
In her 2020 book The Meaning of Mariah Carey, the “Touch My Body” singer recalled producer Jeffrey Katzenberg asking her to perform “When You Believe” with Houston for The Prince of Egypt. Katzenberg was a Disney producer who later went on to co-found DreamWorks Skg. Neither singer had anything to do with the writing of the song. “When You Believe” was by Stephen Schwartz, who is known for writing tunes for Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and Enchanted. He also wrote the Broadway musicals Wicked, Pippin, and Godspell. While he’s...
- 1/3/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For Chaka Khan, the end of 2023 was nothing short of triumphant. In November, she was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and she also moved from Los Angeles to a big, rural property in Georgia, where she says she’s found “peace of mind.”
The R&b icon, who just released a new fragrance (Chaka by Chaka Khan), and is still playing live dates even as she strives to wind down her touring schedule, looked back at some career highlights and struggles in the latest edition of our Last Word interview.
The R&b icon, who just released a new fragrance (Chaka by Chaka Khan), and is still playing live dates even as she strives to wind down her touring schedule, looked back at some career highlights and struggles in the latest edition of our Last Word interview.
- 12/28/2023
- by Brian Hiatt
- Rollingstone.com
Madonna and Cyndi Lauper are two 1980s divas who will always be associated with one another. Around the same time, they made some of the most famous dance songs ever, revolutionized the music video as an art form, and became major LGBTQ icons. Notably, one of Madonna’s biggest songs was initially meant for Lauper. Here’s a look at how the Queen of Pop came to record one of her hits.
A pair of songwriters wrote Madonna’s ‘Open Your Heart’ for Cyndi Lauper
Madonna’s “Open Your Heart” is one of her most famous dance-pop tunes. According to Stereogum, Gardner Cole and Peter Rafelson penned the original version of “Open Your Heart” for Lauper. Originally, “Open Your Heart” was going to be a synth-rock song. Considering Lauper has a background in that style of music, having been a member of the band Blue Angel, the song might have worked for her.
A pair of songwriters wrote Madonna’s ‘Open Your Heart’ for Cyndi Lauper
Madonna’s “Open Your Heart” is one of her most famous dance-pop tunes. According to Stereogum, Gardner Cole and Peter Rafelson penned the original version of “Open Your Heart” for Lauper. Originally, “Open Your Heart” was going to be a synth-rock song. Considering Lauper has a background in that style of music, having been a member of the band Blue Angel, the song might have worked for her.
- 12/28/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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