Music Blog Today
Music News and Commentary.
September 04, 2010
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Grab Our Feed
Music News and Commentary.
September 04, 2010
The world of rap music will have to get by for a whle without the notorious talent of rapper Lil’ Wayne. Following a weapons charge, he received a jail sentence of one year. Lil’ Wayne has been arrested twice before on drug charges.
Born Dwayne Michael Carter in September 1982, the New Orleans rapper was practically killed by a gun shot at age 13. After his near-miraculous recovery, the teen hooked up with rap group the B.G’z and, after their breakup, was featured with the Hot Boys. Embarking on a solo career in 1999, Lil’ Wayne has been recognized with numerous awards and rap music accolades.
It’s speculated by industry sources that his sentence could be reduced by a few months if he’s on his best behavior.
It’s only fitting that pop queen Madonna would speak fondly of her admiration and affection for the late king of pop, Michael Jackson. In a recent interview (granted by Madonna to Rolling Stone) she reflected on her successful decades-long career, sharing observations about some of the fellow music stars she’s been associated with.
Madonna and Jackson were both born in August, 1958. Madonna admitted to a healthy jealousy of Jackson, noting that she first met him in the early 80’s when they were managed by Freddy DeMann. Her respect for the fallen icon is evident when she speaks of his flawless performing abilities and mentions some of her favorite Jackson hits, which included “Billy Jean” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’.”
There was a time when the stars talked of collaborating together. They went through the initial phase of getting to know each other on a very basic level; hanging out, going to dinner, sharing a glass of wine and some laughs. It was a casual, friendly phase, though the two didn't become very close and the idea of creating music together never did transpire.
Madonna defined Jackson’s very premature death as ‘tragic’, a sentiment no doubt concurred with by a myriad of other music greats and fans alike.
Who can forget the fun and catchy theme song for the Addams Family? Vic Mizzy, creator of that unique TV-show tune (made popular once again with the entertaining Addams Family movies) passed away from heart failure last weekend at age 93. He was at his home in Bel Air, CA.
The veteran writer also composed the theme song for the hit 60’s sitcom, ‘Green Acres.’ I don’t know about you, but the lyrics and upbeat jingle are in my head right now (‘farm livin’ is the life for me…’), along with fond memories of Arnold Ziffel and Mr. Haney.
Before his great success with TV themes (he wrote scores for episodes of shows like ‘Shirley Temple’s Storybook’ and ‘The Richard Boone Show’ plus the theme for Dennis Weaver’s series ‘Kentucky Jones’) Victor Mizzy penned popular songs such as ‘Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes’ and ‘There’s A Faraway Look In Your Eyes.’
Mr. Mizzy is survived by his daughter, Lynn Mizzy Jonas, brother Sol, and two grandchildren. His funeral and memorial service were held today in Mission Hills.
President Barrack Obama stepped out of the country music closet when, during his speech at the White House Country Music Celebration, he quoted country star Dierks Bentley in his opening remarks.
President Obama cited Bentley’s lyric that identifies country music as “…the best shrink that 15 bucks can buy". Many attendees at the White House event were surprised to learn that the President is such a fan of country music. Despite the public perception that Obama’s an urban guy through and through, he openly admitted his appreciation for the country genre.
During his speech, President Obama further included quotes from the recently unretired Garth Brooks as well as country songwriter, Harlan Howard.
The evening’s musical entertainment included songs performed by the ever-popular Brad Paisley (his hit ‘So Much Cooler Online’ has got to be one of my personal favorites), classic country crooner Charley Pride and Alison Krauss, whose 2008 collaboration with rock legend Robert Plant garnered rave reviews and plenty of media attention.
Our President’s affection for country music just goes to prove that its engaging tunes and honest, heartfelt lyrics reach across every economic, age and demographic chasm to touch and inspire listeners throughout America.
London’s hottest dish of the music moment, Cheryl Cole, is wowing fans of all ages, including a vintage American Idol judge, none other than the crotchety and often-condescending Simon Cowell.
Known for his frequently unflattering commentary, the bluntly honest Cowell apparently told Cole that her captivating performance was “…incredible.” The sultry Cole, age 26, impressed listeners of all ages with a recent performance of her newly released single, “Fight For This Love.”
Fans will no doubt be fighting to keep up with the latest news on this rising star. She’s got a big (and growing) base of supporters who already love her. (Maybe Mr. Cowell will be vying to head up her fan club?)