Christina Aguilera - Not Myself Tonight

En bref. Christina Aguilera vient de dévoiler le clip de Not Myself Tonight, 1er single de son nouvel album "Bionic" attendu pour début juin. Morceau efficace (merci Polow Da Don, on reconnaît quelques unes des grosses ficelles utilisées pour le Forever de Chris Brown) mais quelque peu lassant (tout repose sur le refrain).

J'ai juste l'impression qu'elle a tout pompé à Madonna (majoritairement) et à Lady GaGa... Dommage, Christina Aguilera n'a pas besoin de ça. Déçu. Mais quand même impatient d'écouter le reste de l'album !

Mise à jour le 1er juin 2010 : remplacement du lien vers le clip vidéo.

Holidays

Folks I’m off to Portugal for the Bank Holiday weekend for some much needed sun! ~ This means my next blog will be at some point on Tuesday, have a fantastic weekend everyone!

John Lennon / The Beatles

A sheet of paper which has John Lennon’s hand-written song lyrics is expected to sell for up to $700,000 (£450,000).
The double-sided sheet features Lennon's lyrics to the Beatles song ‘A Day in the Life’. It also contains other notes penned in red ink.
‘A Day in the Life’ is the final track on the Beatles 1967 massive hit album ‘Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band’.

It has been said that the sheet could break the record for Beatles lyrics, set by ‘All You Need Is Love’, which was sold for $1m (£600,000) in 2005.

'Mary Poppins' extends stay in Charlotte

The Broadway touring production of "Mary Poppins" has been extended for an extra week "in response to the overwhelming demand for tickets," according to a Blumenthal Performing Arts Center press release.

The show was originally scheduled to run from Aug. 26-Sept. 13. Tickets for newly announced performances -- from Sept. 14-19 -- are on sale now. Individual tickets are available from $32.50 and up. Tickets can be purchased at the Blumenthal Box Office and online at www.blumenthalcenter.org. To charge tickets by phone, call 704-372-1000.

British Music Industry

Good news for the British music industry!, new statistics compiled by the British Phonographic Industry have suggested that the British music industry is growing thanks to legal downloads.
The figures revealed a 1.4% annual increase in overall income in 2009.
A huge rise in online streaming and legal music downloads has led to total revenue for digital services increasing from £127.8m in 2008 to £188.9m last year - a 47.8% rise in profit for digital income.
Digital revenue now accounts for 20.3 percent of the industry's total annual income. Meanwhile, physical music format sales continued their year-on-year decline by 6.1%
BPI Chief Executive Geoff Taylor said “It's encouraging to see industry revenues stabilize and even show modest growth in 2009,”... “This is testament to continuing investment by UK labels in talented artists despite challenging economic conditions, and the innovation labels have shown in licensing new digital services.”
However, Taylor conceded that there is still some way to go before the music industry returns to the level of prosperity enjoyed prior to the boom of illegal downloading around the turn of the century.
"Let’s put it in broader perspective," he added. “2009's modest result follows a five-year drop in annual income, and total industry income has not exceeded £1bn since 2006.”

JLS

JLS have today confirmed that their new single will be called ‘The Club Is Alive’.
The song was revealed on Manchester's ‘In Demand’ radio show, with its release date also being announced as 4th July.
The JLS lads took to Twitter to confirm the news, posting: “New single confirmed as 'The Club Is Alive' - out July 4th - eeeeeeeeeeeek!!! xx.”
Yesterday a radio station posted the lyric "The club is alive with the sound of music" from the song on Twitter, suggesting that it samples the title track from the 1965 film The Sound Of Music.
JLS also confirmed that they are shooting the video while they finish recording their second LP in the US.

Kelly Clarkson

I have to agree with Kelly Clarkson on this one...
Kelly took to her Twitter account yesterday to express her anger after one of her recordings leaked on to the internet.
Kelly had recorded a rough demo of a song called ‘Cleopatra’ for another artist, She posted on her Twitter page: “Cleopatra is NOT a song on my next record! It was written for another artist! I have no idea how it leaked, it's a rough demo, unfinished! “I'm so tired of disrespecting, lying, sneaky little trolls that pretend to be human.”

As a fan of hers it beats me why someone would want to put something out there that’s unfinished of hers, (even if she says it’s not), i prefer waiting for the finished product!

Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland’s new single is called ‘Commander’ The record was produced by David Guetta, who worked with her on last year's global No.1 smash ‘When Love Takes Over’
‘Commander’ was written by Rico Love, known for his work with Beyoncé and Usher.
Speaking to a music magazine about the song, Rico Love said: “It's just such an aggressive record, it's a club record, it's a worldwide international record.
“She's stretching her legs out and she's showing her true vocal ability. She's like the queen of the night on this record.”

Enrique Iglesias

Enrique Iglesias has announced details of his new single called ‘I Like It’.
It’s been 3 years since Enrique released his last album ‘Insomniac’ (which was fantastic! – most tracks are still on my i-pod!)
Enrique posted a message on his official website stating that the song will hit radio stations next week, when he will also shoot the music video. He wrote: “Hey guys... I'm on the way to do the photoshoot for the new album. I will also be shooting the music video for the new English single ‘I Like It’.
“You may have heard, we just shot the Latin video, and the song will be hitting radio next week. I'm very excited about it! Can't wait for you all to hear.”
A 30-second clip of the song has leaked on to the internet, and reveals the track's sampling of Lionel Ritchie's ‘All Night Long’.

US Charts

B.o.B remain at the No.1 spot in the singles chart for a second week, While in the album charts ‘Glee’s mini EP of Madonna covers enters in the No.1 spot on the albums.

Top 5 U.S Albums:
5: Usher – ‘Raymond Vs Raymond’
4: AC/DC – ‘Ironman 2 OST’
3: Justin Bieber – ‘My World 2.0’
2: Lady Antebellum - ‘Need you now
1: ‘Glee’ – ‘The Power of Madonna’

Top 5 U.S Singles:
5: Train – ‘Hey, Soul Sister’
4: Lady Antebellum – ‘Need you now’
3: Tiao Cruz feat... Ludacris – ‘Break your heart’
2: Rihanna – ‘Rudeboy’
1: B.o.B. – ‘Nothin’ on you’

Overall album sales in this past chart week totalled 5.54 million up 3% compared to the sum last week (5.46 million) and down 10% compared to the comparable sales week of 2009 (6.17 million).

'Twilight' convention in Charlotte this week

Need a "Twilight" fix?

The Official Twilight Convention -- set for this Friday through Sunday at the Marriott Charlotte Executive Park Hotel -- promises attendees "an up-close and personal 'Twilight Saga' experience."

The weekend gathering will feature on-stage appearances by supporting actors and actresses from the "Twilight" movies, exclusive footage, panel discussions, "Twilight"-themed parties, musical performances, costume and trivia competitions, auctions, autographing, merchandising and photo opportunities. Twilight fan websites including www.twilightlexicon.com and www.twilightnovelnovice will also host special presentations.

Actors and actresses appearing at the convention include: Peter Facinelli (Dr. Carlisle Cullen), appearing Friday; Charlie Bewley (Volturi tracker Demetri), Michael Welch (Mike Newton), and Justin Chon (Eric Yorkie), all appearing Saturday; Gil Birmingham (Billy Black), appearing Saturday and Sunday; and Tinsel Korey (Emily Young), appearing Sunday.

Convention hours are 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Parties, concerts and food functions will take place before and after the official show hours. Daily admission pricing is $10. For more information and registration, visit www.twilightconvention.com.

Russell Brand

Oh dear ... What is it with people wanting to screw the music scene up latly! Now Russell Brand will reportedly release an album (yeah you read that correctly ... Russell Brand!) as his character: Aldous Snow from his new film ‘Get Him To The Greek’
According to a national newspaper Russell Brand’s vocals (which he recorded for the upcoming film), have impressed Universal records... (There standards have obviosly slipped!)
“Universal pictures and the music arm of the company are very excited about the prospect of cashing in on the film and the music,” said thier source... “Russell was a natural as a rock 'n' roll front man and there's a lot of scope for clever marketing campaigns around his role.” Russell ... PLEASE DON’T!!

Republica

Republica have announced that they will reform for a number of gigs and reissue their fantastic 1996 hit ‘Ready To Go’.
Republica split back in 2003, but will now release a new version of the song complete with all the original band members, including frontwoman Saffron Sprackling.
According to a music magazine Republica will also play a string of gigs and UK festivals this summer.
Originally released in 2006, ‘Ready To Go’ eventually peaked at No.13 in the UK singles chart in 1997. The band's follow-up ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’ reached No.7.
Saffron Sprackling worked as a guest vocalist with a number of acts including The Cure and The Prodigy since Republica split.

Click to listen to the original track: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqmwbVSTGlg

Stereophonics

Listen up! The Stereophonics have launched a competition to find a support band for their special homecoming gig this summer.
The band are looking for an unsigned act to open for them at Cardiff City Stadium on 5th June... Kelly Jones said “It's going to be a Welsh summer celebration, giving something back to the people of the valleys, towns and cities”
To enter, bands must submit a video performance of one song. The deadline for all entries is May 26 and the winner will be announced on May 28.
Information is available on the group's official website.

POWDERFINGER concert at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on Saturday 18 September

Australia’s biggest band, Powderfinger, recently annouwhat pics you looking nced their upcoming concert at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on Saturday 18 September, together with the news that they will be disbanding following an extensive Australian tour.

Powderfinger’s final Sunsets Tour will include shows in 21 different cities over a seven-week period and will undoubtedly include hits such as “These Days”, “My Happiness”, “Already Gone”, “Good-Day Ray” and “Passenger” to name just a few.

The Sydney Entertainment Centre is offering a very special Cocktail & Show Package which includes an amazing selection of canapés, a beverage package, as well as a fantastic Reserved Ticket in either Sections 8, 9 or 10 for only $205.00 per person. The full details of the package are attached.

With Special Guests Jet

Cocktail & Show Package

Saturday 18 September, 2010

Time : 6.00pm Pre-Show & Interval

$205.00 per person

Includes a Reserved Seat in Sections 8, 9 or 10
For any enquiries contact Dianna, Dave or Sarah on 02 9320 4200
or email hospitality@sydentcent.com.au

Menu

-ROAST PORK BELLY EN CROUTON WITH APPLE SABAYON
-SUGAR CURED BEEF FILLET WITH FENNEL REMOULADE &
-TOASTED POPPYSEED
-TANDOORI LAMB WITH MINTED YOGHURT & MANGO
SALSA
-GOAT’S CHEESE & LYONNAISE ONION TARTLETS
-MINI GOURMET BEEF, BACON & CHEESE PIES
-POTATO SPUN PRAWNS WITH LIME, CORIANDER &
-SWEET CHILLI DIP
-ENTERTAINMENT MINI CHEESEBURGER WITH ONION
-JAM

Package also includes:
-Beer
-Wine
-Soft Drinks

Please follow this link to view the seating plan – http://www.sydentcent.com.au/files/cadplans/POWDERFINGER.pdf

For Accommodation in Sydney See Metro Hotels

Justin Nozuka & Zaho - Heartless (La Promesse)

Après un premier single passé plutôt inaperçu, c'est avec Heartless que Justin Nozuka continue la promotion de son nouvel album "You I Wild Land And Sea" (dispo dès aujourd'hui en téléchargement légal). Et vu que l'union fait la force, la douce Zaho l'accompagne.

Le titre pose le décor dès les premières notes. Justin Nozuka nous emmène là où on l'aime le plus : à la belle étoile, au coin du feu, pour qu'il nous chante des mots d'amour, guitare à la main, avec sa douce voix.

Zaho y est une fois encore impeccable. Je ne vois pas d'autre mot pour définir cette artiste, aussi à l'aise sur ses compos que dans des duos rap, RnB, reggae, et même pop/rock. "Passe-partout", "irréprochable" oui, mais dans le bon sens : Zaho n'est pas, selon moi, une artiste bouche-trou (bien qu'après le duo avec Sean Paul, elle joue le rôle du "joker quotas français" pour la deuxième fois en 3 mois). Sa sublime voix, son phrasé singulier, son intelligence musicale, ses petites touches artistiques qu'elle dissémine un peu partout témoignent une fois encore du talent de cette jeune femme. Je suis persuadé qu'elle n'a pas fini de nous surprendre.

Seul reproche que je ferais à ce titre : on y entend trop peu Justin Nozuka. Il n'est présent qu'à peine plus d'un tiers du morceau et disparait passée 1 minute et 27 secondes (sur 3'25). Un refrain final Justin / Zaho aurait été tellement beau...

Foutus quotas français.

Concert news: Kelly Clarkson, Shinedown, Drake

Several major acts have announced Charlotte shows in the past few days. Here are the highlights:

The 2010 Lilith Tour will visit Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Friday, Aug. 6. The lineup includes Sarah McLachlan, Kelly Clarkson, Jill Scott, Indigo Girls, Court Yard Hounds and six other artists (to be named later). Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday...

The Carnival of Madness Tour -- featuring Shinedown, Chevelle, Puddle of Mudd, Sevendust, and 10 Years -- will play Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Saturday, July 24. Tickets on sale at 10 a.m. Friday...

The alternative-rock band Everclear, best-known for its 2000 hit "Wonderful," will play the main stage at Food Lion Speed Street in uptown at 9:30 p.m. Friday, May 28. Musical performances for the three-day festival begin Thursday, May 27. Additional artists will be announced soon. Admission to Speed Street is free. For a complete schedule of events, click here...

Hip-hopper Drake is set to perform at The Fillmore on May 25. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday...

The Thirty Seconds to Mars concert -- originally slated for this past Sunday at the Uptown Amphitheatre but postponed due to an illness -- has been rescheduled for Nov. 7 at The Fillmore. Tickets will be honored at the venue on the new date...

Sonique

Good news! Sonique was told yesterday that shes has been given the all-clear after fighting breast cancer.
Sonique was diagnosed just under a year ago and had to undergo three operations, intensive chemotherapy and preventative radiotherapy.
She said: “Rather than thinking I'm on the road to recovery now, I've recovered and it's time to pick up the pieces and move on and forget about that place. You just have to think positive” ... Congratulations Sonique!!

Click to hear her massive No.1 hit ‘It feels so good’ (Never i true word spoken...) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVzvdCKuu4w

Caro Emerald - Back It Up

C'est un OVNI que je vous propose d'écouter pour bien démarrer la semaine.

On croirait y reconnaître un titre d'un autre temps, un standard des années 50-60... et pourtant Back It Up est le tout premier single, bel et bien enregistré il y a quelques mois, de Caro Emerald.

Originellement composé pour un groupe de J-Pop (Pop Japonaise) mais finalement réarrangé en cette espèce de pop jazzy, limite mambo; joué à la TV Amstellodamoise puis lancé sur YouTube parce que ses auteurs n'avaient pas prévu qu'il connaîtrait un tell buzz... Même l'histoire de ce morceau est originale !

Quoi qu'il en soit c'est bon pour les oreilles, ne boudons pas notre plaisir. Je vous passe le jeu de mots pourri "Caro Emerald, c'est une pierre précieuse"... parce qu'il est vraiment pourri.

Premier billet sur ce titre : iPod Selection du 17.03.2010

Dan Balan - Chica Bomb

Les Moldaves, ils sont balèzes. Avec O-Zone, ils nous ont prouvé que :

1. On peut faire un tube en chantant avec des voix de poulet qu'on égorge.
2. Les Français ne s'attachent pas vraiment aux paroles des chansons.
3. On peut chanter et danser sur les ailes d'un avion, et sans aucun problème (la preuve en dessous).

O-Zone, c'était magique. Nous sommes en 2004, souvenez-vous.

Mais depuis - tristesse -, le groupe s'est séparé. Dan Balan, son leader, lance donc à présent sa carrière solo avec Chica Bomb.

Pas forcément plus effervescent intellectuellement mais très efficace ! Attention, là encore ça sent le tube de l'été.

David Guetta & Chris Willis feat. Fergie & LMFAO - Gettin' Over You

Des mois qu'on l'attendait ce remix ! Des mois !! Précisément depuis cette vidéo (dont je n'arrive à retrouver que le début) où David Guetta, en pleine soirée, se met à jouer une version inédite de Gettin' Over pour s'excuser d'un bug dans son mix (prévu / pas prévu le coup de buzz ?).

A la base, il s'agissait d'un remix soit disant top secret où les Black Eyed Peas rejoignaient Chris Willis, la puissante voix de la plupart des hits made in Guetta : Love Don't Let Me Go, Money, Stay, Love Is Gone ou encore Tomorrow Can Wait. L'automne et l'hiver sont passés, les rappeurs américains LMFAO (I'm In Miami Trick) ont rejoint le projet, mais des BEP ne reste que Fergie. Qu'importe, le résultat est d'une efficacité redoutable.

Pour preuve, le titre a été envoyé aux radios il y a à peine quelques jours qu'il fait déjà une entrée tonitruante dans l'airplay français (même Skyrock le playliste !). C'est en beauté que notre frenchie va conclure l'exploitation de sa machine à tubes d'album "One Love".

La version originale :

Jason Derülo - Whatcha Say (Wawa remix)

Quasiment six mois après m'être mis à l'écouter, Whatcha Say de Jason Derülo a fait son retour dans ma playlist, dans son Wawa remix pour être précis.

J'aime beaucoup l'approche, le découpage, l'instru et surtout la dimension donnée au dernier refrain : en un mot, ce titre est puissant. D'après mon iTunes, je l'ai écouté 27 fois en 10 jours : je crois qu'on peut parler de coup de coeur ! ;-)

UK Charts

A year and a half after coming fourth on The X-Factor, Blackburn born Diana Vickers debut single ‘Once’ goes straight into the singles charts at No.1 in the UK (and No.3 in Ireland).
AC/DC, who have sold over a massive 200 MILLION albums has scored yet another No.1 album this week in the UK (Their third in their carrier).

Top 5 U.K. Singles:
5: Scouting for Girls – ‘This ain’t a love song’
4: Plan B – ‘She Said’
3: Chipmunk & Esmée Denters – ‘Until you were gone’
2: Usher & Will.i.am – ‘OMG’
1: Diana Vickers – ‘Once’

Top 5 U.K. Albums:
5: Scouting for Girls – ‘Everybody wants to be on TV’
4: Meatloaf – ‘Hand colder teddy bear’
3: Plan B – ‘The Defamation of Strickland Banks’
2: Paul Weller – ‘Wake up the nation’
1: AC/DC – ‘Ironman 2 OST’

2 country concerts set for Charlotte area

Toby Keith's "American Ride Tour" hits Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday, July 11. Trace Adkins and James Otto will open. Tickets ($33.75 lawn, $73.75 reserved) go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, April 30, at LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster, the Verizon box office, or by calling 800-745-3000.

Also: "American Idol" finalist Bucky Covington will perform on Thursday, May 6, in Salisbury to kick off the inaugural "Brick Street Live!" concert series. Tickets ($5 general, $25 VIP/reserved) can be purchased by calling 704-637-5363 or online at brickstreetlive.com.

Charlotte Knights to throw a birthday party

The Charlotte Knights will celebrate mascot Homer the Dragon’s birthday tonight.

All fans attending the team's game against the Norfolk Tides will receive a free piece of birthday cake. In addition, Homer Birthday Bobbleheads will be given to the first 1,000 kids (12 and younger). And Junior Knights Kids Club members will be able to partake in a pre-game party with Homer in the Home Run Café, located on the fourth floor of Knights Stadium.

Sixteen mascots from local pro sports teams and colleges will join in the celebration tonight: Sir Purr, Chubby, Rufus, Stormy, Lugnut, Ramses and many more will be on hand to help Homer ring in another year at Knights Stadium.

Homer has been representing the Knights -- the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox -- for more than 21 years, making him the oldest professional mascot in the area.

For ticket or event information, call 704-357-8071 or 803-548-8050 or click here.

Girls Aloud

Here’s either an article to inspire or depress you (depending on how you look at it!)... Girls Aloud have amassed a £30 million fortune between them, figures from the ‘Sunday Times’ have revealed.
Cheryl Cole was the largest contributor to the group's fortune, with her stints on ‘The X Factor’, product endorsements and solo career seeing her wealth rocket 150% in the past year to £10 million.
The boost takes her to fourth place in the list of British music millionaires under 30, which she jointly holds with singer Kaite Melua.
Her bandmates Nadine Coyle, Sarah Harding, Kimberly Walsh and Nicola Roberts have each made around £5 million from record sales.
The figures have been released ahead of this weekend's ‘Sunday Times Rich List’. Leona Lewis, Charlotte Church and Katherine Jenkins share the top spot, each worth £11 million. Craig David is the wealthiest man in seventh place at £8 million, with Paolo Nutini at ninth with £5 million

Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder has just confirmed that he will play The O2, Dublin on the 24th June! For your chance to buy Priority ticketing for this gig check out: http://www.o2blueroom.ie/ at 9am on Tuesday 27th April,
Can't wait! this should be a fantastic concert as he'll be playing all his Greatest Hits...!

La Roux

Another artist hit by volcanic issues ... This time it’s La Roux, They have been forced to postpone the start of their UK tour. The band confirmed that their first two gigs - in Southampton on April 25 and Reading on April 26 have had to be pushed back due to flight disruptions...
They also announced that they are rescheduling the Reading date for May 4 and the Southampton show for June 13 ~ Tickets for both original dates will remain valid.

Whitney Houston, Status Quo and Michael Bublè were all forced to either make alternative travel arrangements or make other plans.

The Fratellis

Awe this is a shame ... The Fratellis have confirmed that they have split via a message on their official website.
The message, posted by (front man) Jon Lawler, said that the band's members are all working on individual music projects. “We have no plans to work together right now,” he said.
“Sometimes things just work out that way. Mince, Baz and I are working on music but not with each other. Your passion is appreciated more than we will ever be able to say. We'll forever give our hearts and souls to music and to you guys who want to hear what we do.”
One Fan posted a message: “You guys changed my life. Thank you for the wonderful music, memories and everything else.”

Click to hear their fantastic track ‘Chelsea Dagger’: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlMfV7A3V00

Rent this 'Avatar,' don't buy it

With his 3-D blockbuster, “Avatar,” director James Cameron gave millions of moviegoers a glimpse into the future of filmmaking.

But the “Avatar” DVD, which arrived in stores today, seems awfully old-fashioned.
There is no 3-D version. There’s no director’s commentary. No making-of featurettes or documentaries, no deleted scenes or outtakes. Just the movie.

If something about this seems familiar to you DVD geeks, you’re right – Cameron’s been down this road before. In 1998, his “Titanic” went to VHS and laserdisc first, then was released on DVD in 1999 with no special features other than the theatrical trailer. Everyone bought a copy. Six years later, a fully loaded special edition of “Titanic” hit stores … and everyone bought a copy again.

The wait for an “Avatar” special edition will be more like six months than six years – Fox plans to deliver a multi-disc edition with all kinds of bonus features in November – but still ... what we’ve got here is another case of film fans falling for the oldest trick in the DVD book: Why make people pay for something once when you can make them pay for the same thing twice?

Anyway, if you haven't already rushed out to pick up a copy, I've got two words for you: Rent it.

Last chance to get Bon Jovi tickets

Bon Jovi will perform at Time Warner Cable Arena tonight, and although the show was previously "sold out," the band has just released a limited number of additional seats.

The concert is set for 7:30 p.m., with Dashboard Confessional opening.

Tickets are available through www.ticketmaster.com, the Time Warner Cable Arena box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, or charge by phone by calling 800-745-3000.

Want to be in a Carowinds commercial?

Carowinds is searching for about 70 "clean-cut" men and women actors and models (ages 18 and older) for a commercial shoot for television taking place April 27 at the 112-acre combination amusement and water park on the N.C./S.C. border.

The ad will showcase Carowinds' new roller coaster, Intimidator.

IF SELECTED ... Filming is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. next Tuesday. Actors should arrive by 9 a.m. and will need to be comfortable repeatedly riding at speeds of about 80 mph (although actors will be changed out as needed). Dress for summer. If temperatures are cooler, wear removable hoodies over short-sleeve or sleeveless shirts. No logos on T-shirts. No visible tattoos or piercings. No-flip flops. Lunch will be provided.

The commercial will air in North and South Carolina, as well as Tennessee and Georgia.

Interested? Contact Jack Stevenson at jack.stevenson@carowinds.com. Include your phone number, e-mail address and a current photo.

Jason Derulo

Jason Derulo has revealed that he is recording a duet with the fantastic Pixie Lott.
Jason posted a message via his Twitter page, (which also included a picture of the pair working together in the studio)... “The UK's very own... The lovely Pixie Lott and I, in the studio.. Such a crazy CAT! Lol.. Look out for the duet...”
Can’t wait to her it!

Taio Cruz

Taio Cruz has revealed that he submitted two tracks for Kylie Minogue's new album... (he’s left it a little late considering it’ll be out in two minths!)
Apparently Taio was recently asked to submit songs for Kylie’s new album ‘Aphrodite’.
Taio says: “Her team asked me to write for her, and they played me some music in the direction they wanted to go in, so I went off and tried to create music in that vein... “I ended up submitting a couple of songs for her, one of which was on hold the last time I heard. I don't know if anything else is going to make the cut on her album yet.”
Taio Cruz has also revealed that he’s been working with Rihanna, McFly and The Saturdays on their upcoming musical projects.

US Charts

B.o.B climbs one place in America to end Rihanna’s stint at No.1,
Justin Bieber remains at the No.1 spot in the album chart for a second week!

Top 5 U.S Albums:
5: Coheed and Cambria – ‘Year of the Black Rainbow’
4: Usher – ‘Raymond Vs Raymond’
3: Lady Antebellum - ‘Need you now’
2: MGMT – ‘Congratulations’
1: Justin Bieber – ‘My World 2.0’

Top 5 U.S Singles:
5: Lady Antebellum – ‘Need you now’
4: Tiao Cruz feat... Ludacris – ‘Break your heart’
3: Train – ‘Hey, Soul Sister’
2: Rihanna – ‘Rudeboy’
1: B.o.B. – ‘Nothin’ on you’

Overall album sales in this past chart week totalled 5.46 million up 3% compared to the sum last week (5.27 million) and down 14% compared to the comparable sales week of 2009 (6.36 million).
92.69 MILLION Albums have so far been sold in the U.S this year! Yet this is still down 10% compared with 103.22 million of this time last year.

Knights team up with Tilted Kilt

Interesting press release of the day:

The Charlotte Knights are teaming up with The Tilted Kilt for some post-game fun. On selected dates throughout the 2010 season, the Knights will host a post-game party for their fans at The Tilted Kilt located at 13230 Carowinds Boulevard in Charlotte.

Following the game, fans can come to The Titled Kilt where Knights players will be signing autographs, giving away tickets and other Knights prizes. These are post-game events only, the first of which will be this Friday, April 23rd following the Knights 7:15 PM game against the Norfolk Tides.

This will offer Knights fans a great chance to meet Knights players and offer fans a fun place to go following the game. If there is no game due to weather the event will be rescheduled for a later date. Other post-game party dates have not been announces.

The Charlotte Knights are the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. For ticket or event information, please contact the Knights front office at (704) 357-8071 or (803) 548-8050 or visit our website at for more information.

Black Crowes to play outdoor show

The Black Crowes will play the Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory in Charlotte on Saturday, Sept. 18. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, May 14, at LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster, at the Fillmore/Uptown box office and the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre box office, or charge by phone 800-745-3000.

Have you forgiven Tiger Woods?

Tiger Woods will play Charlotte's Quail Hollow Championship, which runs April 29 to May 2. It will be Woods' first tournament since he returned to golf at the Masters after a five-month hiatus during which multiple infidelities were revealed by over a dozen mistresses.

Do you think Tiger has paid for his sins? Will you have any problem cheering for him while he's here? Can you look at him the same way as you did before the sex scandal? Do you think he can return to being a positive role model and go back to pitching products for major companies? Please e-mail me at tjanes@charlotteobserver.com ASAP and share your thoughts ... I would love to hear from anyone, and am particularly interested in responses from women.

Lady GaGa

Lady GaGa is hard at work on her next album and has already recorded some “crazy” tracks, according to Akon.
Lady Gaga is currently travelling with a mini recording studio on her ‘Monster Ball’ tour and has reportedly written the majority of the LP while on tour.
Akon told a music magazine: “She records while she's on the road. I'm flying out to Europe to work on some new records with her... “GaGa's just like me. She has a tour bus with a studio in it. Some of the songs I've heard are going to be crazy. She's getting bigger and better.”
Akon also said that he finds it easy to work with her because she is extremely focused... “All I'm doing at the end of the day is listening to the tracks GaGa has written and approving them for her album. She has producers that she works with outside of myself and they are coming up with some incredible records. “But the beauty of it is she knows exactly what she wants. So it just makes it easier for me.”
Lady GaGa recently posted a message on her official website claiming her next album will be “the greatest of my career”.

Whitney Houston

Well, i went to see Whitney Houston last night in concert for her final night at The O2, Dublin, and ... i was pleasantly surprised! (Constant clearing of the throat & forgetting the words to a song aside) i had seen several video of her performances on YouTube, so i wasn’t expecting too much, although she certainly wasn’t 80s Whitney she can certainly still sing and hold a note or two (granted not the high ones, which are the ones everyone has been viewing), if you get a chance to catch her in concert I’d say defiantly go, just don’t be expecting 80s Whitney!

Bon Jovi

Mmm ... Not quite sure i see the point in this (other than for cashing in ...) but Bon Jovi have announced that they will re-release ten of their studio albums as part of their 25th anniversary.
The albums, starting with their self-titled debut LP released in 1984, will be re-packaged as ‘special editions’ that will each feature rare recordings, bonus tracks and new artwork from each period.
Bon Jovi will also launch a new website in conjunction with the re-released albums, called The Bon Jovi Vaults, which will offer new pictures, tracks and other exclusive content.

The full list of albums to be re-released is:
Bon Jovi (1984)
7800° Fahrenheit (1985)
Slippery When Wet (1986)
New Jersey (1988)
Keep the Faith (1992)
These Days (1995)
Crush (2000)
Bounce (2002)
Have a Nice Day (2005)
Lost Highway (2007)

Kylie Minogue

Here it is folks!
Kylie Minogue has announced the titles and release dates of her upcoming single and album.
The album is called: ‘Aphrodite’ and is Kylie’s 11th studio album and will be released on 5th July. It will be preceded by the single ‘All The Lovers’ on 28th June.
As promised yesterday, Kylie made the announcement at 12pm today on her official website, where a 30-second teaser clip of ‘All The Lovers’ is now streaming.
She also unveiled the album's cover art, which appears above.
Kylie Minogue, 41, logged on to Twitter while fans were awaiting the news, telling followers: “I am so happy to share this little *snippet* of the first single with you all.”

DJ Talent

You just knew it was gonna happen sooner or later! All the crap come records come out for the World Cup and guess what, here's another! 2009s Britain's Got Talent 2009 ‘star’ DJ Talent is releasing an England World Cup track...
The singer and DJ, has written the track titled: ‘Just For You England FC’ ~ And it will be released on iTunes later this year.
“I sent it to Sony BMG and I'm waiting for them to get back to me,” he told a national newspaper. "I hope to get Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard in the video, but at the moment it's just talks.
“I've tried to make it the official England song, but there are a lot of celebrities doing them, including John Barnes and Chico. But I think that mine is better.”
DJ Talent, (real name Anthony Ghosh), released his debut single ‘I Say Britain’ last year, which surprisingly bombed! As i suspect this track will ...

La Roux

For as much as i like some of their music, the more articles i read about La Roux the more i think their getting a little to big for their boots...
La Roux have revealed that their next album will have a completely different sound, a guitar-driven concept album!
Elly Jackson told a music magazine: “If I made a record like the last one again I'd be there for the dumping pile... “We're contemplating a concept album on the subject of monogamy and I've gone back to playing the guitar.”
She also revealed that the group had turned down collaborations with Rihanna, Nelly Furtado and N*E*R*D, explaining: “Do I want to work with Rihanna? Not really. I'm more interested in what the phone call would be.”
Now they’ve also been nominated today for an Ivor Novello Award for ‘Best Contemporary Song’ for their hit ‘In For The Kill’ it may give them a bigger ego!

M.I.A

M.I.A. has (Maybe) confirmed the release date of her new album.
She made the announcement via a tickertape attached to a blimp flying above this year's Coachella festival... (so it could actually of been anyone ...)
The blimp was advertising M.I.A.’s upcoming appearances at the Hard Fest event that takes place in Los Angeles and New York, However, the message ended with the words: “New Album 6.29.10.” ... If correct, the singer's third album is likely to be released in the UK on June 28.

I loved her last album, 'Jimmy' is a class track! Click to listen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgYtkCySen8

Grace Jones

The gloves are off in the Grace Jones camp ... She has claimed that she turned down the opportunity to play live with Lady Gaga because she is not original enough for her!
Grace confirmed to a national newspaper that Lady Gaga made enquiries about the of them collaborating.
Grace Jones said: “Yes, she did, but I said no. I'd just prefer to work with someone who is more original and someone who is not copying me, actually... “I've seen some things she's worn that I've worn, and that does kind of p*ss me off... I wouldn't go to see her.”
She added: “I really don't think of her at all. I go about my business... I just don't play with other acts as a rule.”
Lady Gaga had previously admitted that she is a fan of Grace Jones and described the star as her “Jesus”.

M.I.A and ex-Moloko front woman Roisin Murphy both previously suggested that GaGa mimics their past style... the word ‘jealousy’ springs to mind...

Kylie Minogue

Mmm what could it be...? Kylie Minogue has braced her fans for an “extra special announcement” at noon today!
An email sent to her fans earlier yesterday afternoon reads: “Please stay tuned... Tune in on Kylie.com from tomorrow, Tuesday 20th April at 12pm (GMT) for an extra special announcement.”
A similar message also appeared on her Twitter page...

Ash means cash for hotel industry (Sydney Hotels)

Travellers say hotels are cashing in on the hundreds of thousands of airline passengers stranded around the world as clouds of volcanic ash keep airspace closed over Europe and the UK.

Tourists stranded in Singapore, en route to the United Kingdom and Europe, say they are looking at paying at least $300 more than the normal rate for a one night hotel stay.

And that is if they can find a hotel with a vacancy.

Kate Edmondson was set to fly from Sydney to Dublin via Singapore on Thursday. She told ABC News Online she has made it as far as Singapore and will be kicked out of her hotel this afternoon.

Ms Edmondson says she is frantically trying to find somewhere else to stay.

"I've got a few leads with people and I've got my friends and family and the church in Australia trying to find me somewhere," she said.

"I think it will be resolved but it is scary to know in half-an-hour I'm going to go and sit down in the lobby for a while and think about what I'm going to do."

Ms Edmondson says competition for hotel rooms is fierce.

"I lost an opportunity this morning when someone offered me a room for $300 above the rate and it was a case of she who hesitates is lost," she said.

"I lost that room and once I rang back it was all gone. I really should have taken that room.

"I just wasn't sure about my travel insurance and I hesitated because I thought 'oh you're ripping me off' and instead of facing the reality of that's the position I'm in, I hesitated and I didn't take it."

Read FUll Story HERE

Looking for accommodation, see Metro Hotels

Carrie Underwood books Charlotte concert

Carrie Underwood -- winner of Season 4 of "American Idol" -- is coming to Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena on Saturday, Oct. 30. It's among 46 stops just added to her successful "Play On Tour," which continues through December.

Billy Currington and Sons of Sylvia will open the concert.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 24, through timewarnercablearena.com, ticketmaster.com, the arena box office, Ticketmaster outlets, or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

On Sunday night in Las Vegas, Underwood was named the Academy of Country Music Awards' Entertainer of the Year for the second straight year, becoming the only woman to receive the honor twice.

Lady Gaga

That’s it i’m deffo going to this concert! I missed out last month when she did her Dublin dates but i won’t let it happen again! (Even if the prices have tripled to €91.50)
Lady Gaga play’s The O2, Dublin on Tuesday 26th October. Tickets go on Sale this Friday ... (after i get mine of course!)

Vengaboys

Woooo Whooooo .... The Vengaboys have announced via thier website that the title of their new single is ‘Rocket To Uranus’.
The statement describes ‘Rocket To Uranus’ as “space age disco bliss, addictive lyrics and big Venga-sounds you can't resist” ... It adds: “It's about personal freedom and interplanetary travel. Take our work for it, accept no other explanations. It's our song, so we know.”
The four-piece will return with founding members Kim Sasabone, Denice van Rijswijk and Robin Pors and a new member, known as Ma'Donny.
They have also revealed that the video for the song will feature a cameo performance by a UK number one and US top ten recording artist.... Mmmm i wonder who that could be ...?

Blue

On the downside it looks like it’ll be either the end of this year or 2011 before we’ll see the Blue reunion! But on the up side Lee Ryan has confirmed that he will return to Blue.
Lee who stars in new film ‘The Heavy’ and is releasing his new solo album later this year, also said that he is pleased with the amount of work he has at present.
“Yes, we will do a few more together. But I'm doing my solo album right now. My single ‘Secret Love’ is out on the radio... he continued: “You know, it's a very crucial time right now. I've been away for about four years and to come back with my first single, have a film in the cinema with this cast, and to have a solo deal with an album coming out is a bit mental right now... “But I feel very, very privileged right now. Hopefully, 2010 is going to be a great year!”
Duncan James recently said that Blue were ready to return later this year.

$3 million incentive won for Sydney

Business Events Sydney -INCENTIVE BID ANNOUNCEMENTS Bid wins from the Asian Office

BC Card (Korea) Corporate Members Incentive 2010

Date: May 2010
Delegates: 700
Estimated value: $3.49 million

BC Card is South Korea's biggest credit card company and has over 52 million cards in Korea, making it the top payment network in South Korea.

BC Card runs many incentive and promotional programmes for their card members, with over 6,000 pax per year with the largest being their mid-year incentive programme. This programme involves 3,000 pax travelling to several destinations between June-November. Card members who qualify for this incentive get to choose from a list of 4 destinations being offered.

The lead came from a sales visit with the client in February 2010. A small group travelled to Sydney in March 2010 and a second, larger group incentive for mid 2010 was considering Sydney. Other destinations being considered were Melbourne, Gold Coast, China, Japan, Southeast Asia.

BESydney outlined the appeal of Sydney as an incentive destination including regional touring options, attractions and activities available, many of which the client was unaware of.

Sydney has been confirmed as one of the selected cities along with Miyazaki in Japan, Weihai in China and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia. Sydney was selected because of the beautiful icons, great weather, fresh air and unpolluted natural scenery, adorable iconic animals, and the strong support from BESydney.

New Line Tours (Australia) is the appointed inbound tour operator.

For more information contact Elizabeth Li or visit the Bid Wins Calendar.

Korea Life Insurance Annual Award Incentive 2010

Date: June 2010
Delegates: 100
Estimated value: $299,400

We have been pursuing potential for Korea Life Insurance incentives since early 2008 when we first met the client through our Asian sales call cycle.

Established in 1946, Korea Life Insurance is the nation's first insurer. Korea Life Insurance runs many incentives each year with the key event being the Annual Award Incentive for their best performing sales agents.

The Asian office have been actively communicating with the client to keep Sydney top of mind including involvement in joint BESydney functions and events with Tourism Australia in Seoul.
These communication channels opened the opportunity for the client to consider Australia for their June incentive. The client was also considering Melbourne, Gold Coast, Perth and the Northern Territory with the initial curiosity of what else Australia has to offer.

Through the bid submission and presentations Sydney was painted as a very attractive tourist city to motivate and reward their top sales people. The client was also keen to support Sydney due to our long term relationship and support in the past.

Korea Life Insurance Annual Award Incentive will be a twin city incentive, with 2 nights in Sydney and 2 nights in Melbourne. They will be staying at Shangri La Hotel on 17 and 18 June. The appointed agent in Korea is Hyundai Dream Tour and their inbound tour operator is UTC based in Sydney.

For more information contact Elizabeth Li or visit the Bid Wins Calendar.

Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin's ‘Stairway To Heaven’ has been named the UK's favorite rock song.
Released way back in 1971, it’s one of three tracks by the band which made the top 10 in a poll by radio station Absolute Classic Rock.

The Top.10 UK Rock songs list is below:
1. Led Zeppelin - 'Stairway To Heaven'

2. The Who - 'Won't Get Fooled Again'

3. Queen - 'Bohemian Rhapsody'

4. Led Zeppelin - 'Whole Lotta Love'

5. Deep Purple - 'Smoke On The Water'

6. The Who - 'Baba O' Reilly'

7. Led Zeppelin - 'Rock 'n' Roll'

8. Free - 'All Right Now'

9. The Beatles - 'Revolution'

10. The Rolling Stones - 'Gimme Shelter'

UK Charts

Professor Greens fantastic track that i told you about a few weeks ago (which samples INXS) has gone in at No.3 in the singles chart, Usher climbs one place and scores his 4th UK No.1 single.
London rapper, director and actor (jack of all trades really) Plan Bs second album goes straight to No.1 in the album charts.

Top 5 U.K. Singles:
5: Kelis – ‘Acapella’
4: Plan B – ‘She Said’
3: Professor Green – ‘I need you tonight’
2: Scouting for Girls – ‘This ain’t a love song’
1: Usher & Will.i.am – ‘OMG’

Top 5 U.K. Albums:
5: Justin Bieber – ‘My world’
4: MGMT – ‘Congratulations’
3: Lady Gaga - ‘The Fame’
2: Scouting for Girls – ‘Everybody wants to be on TV’
1: Plan B – ‘The Defamation of Strickland Banks’

'Mary Poppins' tickets on sale this week

Tickets for the Walt Disney Theatrical musical "Mary Poppins" will go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday. The touring production of the show -- which was nominated for seven Tony Awards in 2007, winning one -- runs at Charlotte's Belk Theater for 23 performances Aug. 25-Sept. 12.

Tickets will be available at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center box office (130 N. Tryon St.) and online at www.blumenthalcenter.org. To charge by phone, call 704-372-1000.

Based on P.L. Travers' stories and the 1964 Walt Disney film of the same name, "Mary Poppins" the musical features music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The stage production was created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Julian Fellowes (book) and George Stiles and Anthony Drewe (composers).

"Mary Poppins" has played more than 1,400 performances since opening in 2006, and has grossed over $392 million worldwide.

Blur

Now this is VERY good news folks!
Blur are to release their first new song in 7 YEARS as a FREE download!
‘Fool's Day’ was available from today to buy on 7’ vinyl from independent music retailers participating in the UK's first Record Store Day.
However, (as i’d expect) its limited run of 1,000 copies soon sold out, prompting the band to consider a wider release.
Blur’s manager Chris Morrison said: “To avoid fans having to illegally obtain an inferior copy of this track from pirate sites, we have made it freely available through the band's website
The track will be available to download from http://www.blur.co.uk/ from midnight this evening!