Updated: Sean Penn, LeVar Burton and Wilmer Valderrama are among the entertainment figures on the guest list for tonight’s state dinner at the White House for Kenya.
President Joe Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto to the White House in an arrival ceremony earlier in the day.
Also on the list, per a pool report: Hunter Biden, Roger Goodell, Michaela Cole, Don McLean, Sheryl Sandberg, Barbara Kingsolver and Huma Abedin. Brad Paisley will perform.
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also were there, having attended the last state dinner as well. Not on the list, but arriving to the event as well was former President Barack Obama.
Journalists on the guest list include NBC News’ Lester Holt, CNN’s Bianna Golodryga, MSNBC’s Symone Sanders-Townsend and The Grio’s April Ryan.
Other industry invitees include Paramount Global’s DeDe Lea, UTA Darnell Strom and Silver Eagle Acquisition Corp.
President Joe Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto to the White House in an arrival ceremony earlier in the day.
Also on the list, per a pool report: Hunter Biden, Roger Goodell, Michaela Cole, Don McLean, Sheryl Sandberg, Barbara Kingsolver and Huma Abedin. Brad Paisley will perform.
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also were there, having attended the last state dinner as well. Not on the list, but arriving to the event as well was former President Barack Obama.
Journalists on the guest list include NBC News’ Lester Holt, CNN’s Bianna Golodryga, MSNBC’s Symone Sanders-Townsend and The Grio’s April Ryan.
Other industry invitees include Paramount Global’s DeDe Lea, UTA Darnell Strom and Silver Eagle Acquisition Corp.
- 5/23/2024
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
David Sanborn, the multi-genre saxophonist who performed with David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Carly Simon, James Taylor, and many more, has died. He was 78 years old.
Sanborn’s passing was confirmed on Monday via a post on his social media. “It is with sad and heavy hearts that we convey to you the loss of internationally renowned, six-time Grammy Award-winning, saxophonist, David Sanborn,” the post read. “Mr. Sanborn passed Sunday afternoon, May 12th, after an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.”
Born in 1945, Sanbron was introduced to the saxophone during his childhood as a means of recovering from polio. By the time he was 14, he had the opportunity to perform with blues legends like Albert King and Little Milton, the first of his many, many collaborations.
In 1967, he joined The Paul Butterfield Blues Band, whom he played with at Woodstock two years later. In the early ‘70s, he began performing with more artists,...
Sanborn’s passing was confirmed on Monday via a post on his social media. “It is with sad and heavy hearts that we convey to you the loss of internationally renowned, six-time Grammy Award-winning, saxophonist, David Sanborn,” the post read. “Mr. Sanborn passed Sunday afternoon, May 12th, after an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.”
Born in 1945, Sanbron was introduced to the saxophone during his childhood as a means of recovering from polio. By the time he was 14, he had the opportunity to perform with blues legends like Albert King and Little Milton, the first of his many, many collaborations.
In 1967, he joined The Paul Butterfield Blues Band, whom he played with at Woodstock two years later. In the early ‘70s, he began performing with more artists,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
Classic rock music has produced few songs as layered, mysterious, and intertextual as Don McLean’s “American Pie.” The tune took many years to complete. McLean explained why it took so long to write “American Pie” and what he was trying to accomplish with the tune. Notably, “American Pie” was partly inspired by one of America’s most important rock stars.
Don McLean wrote ‘American Pie’ because he missed 1 singer’s music
“American Pie” starts with the sad story of a man dying young. This could apply to many people, but it’s often understood as a reference to the death of Buddy Holly. Holly died in a plane crash in 1959. Before Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix, or the Sex Pistol’s Sid Vicous, Holly was arguably the first rock star whose early death shocked and shook the world of music.
During a 2022 interview with American Songwriter, the singer discussed the origin of “American Pie.
Don McLean wrote ‘American Pie’ because he missed 1 singer’s music
“American Pie” starts with the sad story of a man dying young. This could apply to many people, but it’s often understood as a reference to the death of Buddy Holly. Holly died in a plane crash in 1959. Before Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix, or the Sex Pistol’s Sid Vicous, Holly was arguably the first rock star whose early death shocked and shook the world of music.
During a 2022 interview with American Songwriter, the singer discussed the origin of “American Pie.
- 5/13/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Other than making records, what do Green Day, the Notorious B.I.G., classic crooners Perry Como and Johnny Mathis, Latin music giant Héctor Lavoe, and the late Bill Withers have in common? Not much, until today: Works by all those musicians, and over a dozen more, were announced as the latest additions to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry.
Signed off on by then-president Bill Clinton in 2000, the Registry has aimed to collect recordings —musical performances, speeches, and other audio — deemed “culturally, historically or aesthetically important.” The first...
Signed off on by then-president Bill Clinton in 2000, the Registry has aimed to collect recordings —musical performances, speeches, and other audio — deemed “culturally, historically or aesthetically important.” The first...
- 4/16/2024
- by David Browne
- Rollingstone.com
John Lennon and Bob Dylan had some major similarities as artists. However, they had widely differing views on religion. John felt that Dylan betrayed one of his most famous lyrics when he converted to Christianity. The “Power to the People” wasn’t the only one with similar feelings.
John Lennon was shocked by some news about Bob Dylan
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, the “Imagine” singer discussed religion at length. “I was brought up Christian and I only now understand some of the things that Christ was saying,” he said. “I must say I was surprised when old Bobby boy did go that way.” John was referencing Dylan’s very public conversion to Christianity.
Dylan wasn’t shy about finding Jesus. He released a trio of Christian albums between 1979 and 1981: Slow Train Coming,...
John Lennon was shocked by some news about Bob Dylan
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, the “Imagine” singer discussed religion at length. “I was brought up Christian and I only now understand some of the things that Christ was saying,” he said. “I must say I was surprised when old Bobby boy did go that way.” John was referencing Dylan’s very public conversion to Christianity.
Dylan wasn’t shy about finding Jesus. He released a trio of Christian albums between 1979 and 1981: Slow Train Coming,...
- 2/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After the news of Toby Keith’s death broke overnight, reactions from the stars of the country music world and beyond followed, as some legendary figures and admirers of the late Nashville star began to share tributes online.
Keith “passed peacefully last night on Feb. 5, surrounded by his family,” read his official website’s announcement of his death; he was 62. The news came two years after the singer posted about his stomach cancer diagnosis on his official Instagram page.
His Instagram page is where many are directing their reactions and condolences following the news. “God Bless you and Family,” singer Randy Houser commented. “Hard to imagine an America without Toby Keith in it.”
Actor Stephen Baldwin commented, “Wow this announcement has totally taken my breath away. I’ve been praying for Toby and it is truly wonderful to know he is finally home praise Jesus” and Georgia-based singer-songwriter Channing Wilson wrote,...
Keith “passed peacefully last night on Feb. 5, surrounded by his family,” read his official website’s announcement of his death; he was 62. The news came two years after the singer posted about his stomach cancer diagnosis on his official Instagram page.
His Instagram page is where many are directing their reactions and condolences following the news. “God Bless you and Family,” singer Randy Houser commented. “Hard to imagine an America without Toby Keith in it.”
Actor Stephen Baldwin commented, “Wow this announcement has totally taken my breath away. I’ve been praying for Toby and it is truly wonderful to know he is finally home praise Jesus” and Georgia-based singer-songwriter Channing Wilson wrote,...
- 2/6/2024
- by Kevin Dolak
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Elvis Presley inspired more country songs than you can shake a pair of blue suede shoes at. One of the more famous ones is Patty Loveless’ “I Try to Think About Elvis.” The track was initially more masculine. Here’s why it got changed.
Patty Loveless’ ‘I Try to Think About Elvis’ was originally about handguns and red meat
While Loveless brought “I Try to Think About Elvis” to life with her vocals, she had nothing to do with its writing. “I Try to Think About Elvis” was written by Gary Burr. Burr is also known for writing country classics like Juice Newton’s “Love’s Been a Little Bit Hard on Me” and Tim McGraw’s “Can’t Be Really Gone.”
During a 1995 interview with American Songwriter, Burr discussed how “I Try to Think About Elvis” evolved. “I had to rewrite ‘Elvis’ because it was a very testosterone-driven song,...
Patty Loveless’ ‘I Try to Think About Elvis’ was originally about handguns and red meat
While Loveless brought “I Try to Think About Elvis” to life with her vocals, she had nothing to do with its writing. “I Try to Think About Elvis” was written by Gary Burr. Burr is also known for writing country classics like Juice Newton’s “Love’s Been a Little Bit Hard on Me” and Tim McGraw’s “Can’t Be Really Gone.”
During a 1995 interview with American Songwriter, Burr discussed how “I Try to Think About Elvis” evolved. “I had to rewrite ‘Elvis’ because it was a very testosterone-driven song,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While Elvis Presley‘s “Blue Suede Shoes” remains one of the most famous tracks of the 1950s, fans should remember that the tune was originally by Carl Perkins. Bob Dylan offered his take on the situation. He also had some interesting things to say about shoes in general.
A car accident caused Elvis’ ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ to overshadow the original
In his 2022 book The Philosophy of Modern Song, Dylan praised Perkins’ “Blue Suede Shoes.” He said there are numerous tunes about shoes. He said “Blue Suede Shoes” was wonderfully menacing, with its implied threat of violence. He felt the tune highlighted that stepping on someone’s shoes could be a greater insult than bashing their teeth in, beating them up, or discrediting them.
While Dylan liked Perkins’ signature hit, he didn’t think Perkins’ career was that successful. “Poor Carl Perkins, watching Elvis Presley sing his song ‘Blue Suede Shoes...
A car accident caused Elvis’ ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ to overshadow the original
In his 2022 book The Philosophy of Modern Song, Dylan praised Perkins’ “Blue Suede Shoes.” He said there are numerous tunes about shoes. He said “Blue Suede Shoes” was wonderfully menacing, with its implied threat of violence. He felt the tune highlighted that stepping on someone’s shoes could be a greater insult than bashing their teeth in, beating them up, or discrediting them.
While Dylan liked Perkins’ signature hit, he didn’t think Perkins’ career was that successful. “Poor Carl Perkins, watching Elvis Presley sing his song ‘Blue Suede Shoes...
- 1/28/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s manager, Colonel Tom Parker, is not a beloved figure among the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll‘s fans. However, Bob Dylan put up a decent defense of Parker. Here’s a look at what the folk singer had to say about one of the most controversial figures in the music business and how Priscilla Presley seemed to agree with him.
Bob Dylan said fans compared Elvis Presley’s manager, Colonel Tom Parker, to Judas Iscariot
In his 2022 book The Philosophy of Modern Song, Dylan discussed Parker’s place in rock ‘n’ roll history. “Among a certain cadre of fans, Colonel Tom Parker is equally reviled for squandering Elvis’ talents in increasingly substandard movies and holding him in stasis in Las Vegas by allowing the Hilton a sweetheart deal to help offset the manager’s staggering gambling debt,” he wrote.
“In the Elvis myth, it’s easy to...
Bob Dylan said fans compared Elvis Presley’s manager, Colonel Tom Parker, to Judas Iscariot
In his 2022 book The Philosophy of Modern Song, Dylan discussed Parker’s place in rock ‘n’ roll history. “Among a certain cadre of fans, Colonel Tom Parker is equally reviled for squandering Elvis’ talents in increasingly substandard movies and holding him in stasis in Las Vegas by allowing the Hilton a sweetheart deal to help offset the manager’s staggering gambling debt,” he wrote.
“In the Elvis myth, it’s easy to...
- 1/14/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Bob Dylan once wrote an essay about Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas.” He saw it as a song about faith — albeit faith in something that isn’t traditionally considered religious. Dylan also had a bit to say about the faith that Elvis’ manager had in the “Heartbreak Hotel” singer. Fascinatingly, “Viva Las Vegas” wasn’t much of a hit.
Bob Dylan said Elvis Presley’s ‘Viva Las Vegas’ is about a modern Garden of Eden
In his 2022 book The Philosophy of Modern Song, Dylan analyzed “Viva Las Vegas” in depth. “This is a song about faith,” he wrote. “The kind of faith where you step under a shower spigot in the middle of a desert and fully believe water will come out.
“Or, more to the point, the type of faith where you stand in the marble lobby of an opulent hotel with neon flashin’ while being served free...
Bob Dylan said Elvis Presley’s ‘Viva Las Vegas’ is about a modern Garden of Eden
In his 2022 book The Philosophy of Modern Song, Dylan analyzed “Viva Las Vegas” in depth. “This is a song about faith,” he wrote. “The kind of faith where you step under a shower spigot in the middle of a desert and fully believe water will come out.
“Or, more to the point, the type of faith where you stand in the marble lobby of an opulent hotel with neon flashin’ while being served free...
- 1/13/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Though it took far too many years to get a solo film for the titular character, Marvel's "Black Widow" finally arrived in 2021. Despite the fact that Natasha Romanov (Scarlett Johansson) had already died in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by that point, at least we got a proper send-off for the character and the introduction of Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, the clear Mvp of the film.
We also got a really fun performance from David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov, aka Red Guardian, who, along with Melina Vostokoff (Rachel Weisz), acted as sleeper Russian agents living in Ohio with the young Yelena (Violet McGraw) and Natasha (Ever Anderson). At the beginning of the film, these four are living as a family undercover, but when they're made, they have to take off in a rush for a flight to Cuba, in fear for their lives. Harbour made a suggestion for that sequence...
We also got a really fun performance from David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov, aka Red Guardian, who, along with Melina Vostokoff (Rachel Weisz), acted as sleeper Russian agents living in Ohio with the young Yelena (Violet McGraw) and Natasha (Ever Anderson). At the beginning of the film, these four are living as a family undercover, but when they're made, they have to take off in a rush for a flight to Cuba, in fear for their lives. Harbour made a suggestion for that sequence...
- 12/18/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
The Beatles‘ “Hey Jude” is one of the most uplifting songs in the classic rock canon. Ironically, Paul McCartney said he upset George Harrison while they were completing the song. The “Silly Love Songs” singer regretted some of his actions. Regardless, the tune became a No. 1 single in multiple countries.
Paul McCartney didn’t like George Harrison’s guitar playing on The Beatles’ ‘Hey Jude’
In the 1997 book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now, Paul discussed the contentious recording of “Hey Jude.” “I remember sitting down and showing George the song and George did the natural thing for a guitar player to do, which is to answer every line of vocal,” Paul recalled. “And it was like, ‘No, George.’
“And he was pretty offended, and looking back, I think, ‘Oh, s***, of course you’d be offended. You’re blowing the guy out,'” Paul continued. “I said, ‘No, no.
Paul McCartney didn’t like George Harrison’s guitar playing on The Beatles’ ‘Hey Jude’
In the 1997 book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now, Paul discussed the contentious recording of “Hey Jude.” “I remember sitting down and showing George the song and George did the natural thing for a guitar player to do, which is to answer every line of vocal,” Paul recalled. “And it was like, ‘No, George.’
“And he was pretty offended, and looking back, I think, ‘Oh, s***, of course you’d be offended. You’re blowing the guy out,'” Paul continued. “I said, ‘No, no.
- 12/11/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Bob Dylan’s influence is so great that it even extends to a song about an “elementary penguin.” John Lennon said The Beatles‘ “I Am the Walrus” was similar to Dylan’s music. He even accused the “Lay Lady Lay” singer of getting “away with murder” among intellectuals. While John’s comments were spot-on in some ways, he also ignored a major aspect of Dylan’s work.
John Lennon said The Beatles’ ‘I Am the Walrus’ had odd lyrics like a Bob Dylan song
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John cited Dylan as an inspiration and also discussed “I Am the Walrus.” “In those days I was writing obscurely, à la Dylan, never saying what you mean, but giving the impression of something,” he explained. “Where more or less can be read into it.
John Lennon said The Beatles’ ‘I Am the Walrus’ had odd lyrics like a Bob Dylan song
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John cited Dylan as an inspiration and also discussed “I Am the Walrus.” “In those days I was writing obscurely, à la Dylan, never saying what you mean, but giving the impression of something,” he explained. “Where more or less can be read into it.
- 11/26/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Exclusive: More than a hit song, “Stand by Me,” by Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller and Ben E. King, has transcended the notion of a “standard” — it’s been recorded more than 1,000 times and has made more appearances on the Billboard Hot 100 chart than any other song.
Music and media producer Spencer Proffer and his music-anchored production company Meteor 17 have been selected to produce the authorized feature-length documentary about the iconic song and its significant global impact for over six decades. Emmy and Grammy nominated director J. Kevin Swain — who has directed music videos and other projects for and with Mary J. Blige, Wynton Marsalis, Queen Latifah — has been selected by Proffer to bring the story of the song to the screen.
As part of the film, Emmy- and Grammy-winning producer, composer, musical director and musician Steve Jordan will produce a new version of “Stand by Me.” Jordan has worked with artists including Keith Richards,...
Music and media producer Spencer Proffer and his music-anchored production company Meteor 17 have been selected to produce the authorized feature-length documentary about the iconic song and its significant global impact for over six decades. Emmy and Grammy nominated director J. Kevin Swain — who has directed music videos and other projects for and with Mary J. Blige, Wynton Marsalis, Queen Latifah — has been selected by Proffer to bring the story of the song to the screen.
As part of the film, Emmy- and Grammy-winning producer, composer, musical director and musician Steve Jordan will produce a new version of “Stand by Me.” Jordan has worked with artists including Keith Richards,...
- 11/16/2023
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
The history of music sometimes feels like a history of missed opportunities. John Lennon discussed the prospect of producing albums for Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley. He wasn’t the biggest fan of one of Dylan’s classics. It’s unclear if Dylan would have wanted to work with John given a comment he made about Paul McCartney.
What John Lennon would have done for Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley
John produced Harry Nilsson’s 1974 album Pussy Cats. Around the same time, he also worked on David Bowie’s “Fame” and “Across the Universe” and Elton John’s rendition of The Beatles’ “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.” During a 1975 interview with Rolling Stone, John was asked if he would like to produce other singers. “Dylan would be interesting because I think he made a great album in Blood on the Tracks but I’m still not keen on the backings,...
What John Lennon would have done for Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley
John produced Harry Nilsson’s 1974 album Pussy Cats. Around the same time, he also worked on David Bowie’s “Fame” and “Across the Universe” and Elton John’s rendition of The Beatles’ “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.” During a 1975 interview with Rolling Stone, John was asked if he would like to produce other singers. “Dylan would be interesting because I think he made a great album in Blood on the Tracks but I’m still not keen on the backings,...
- 11/12/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Universal Music Publishing Group, Concord, and Abkco have sued an Amazon-backed artificial intelligence company over alleged copyright infringement of the three publishers’ songs, according to a lawsuit reviewed by Rolling Stone.
The companies have filed a suit against Anthropic, an AI startup company founded by four former OpenAI employees in 2021 that had just last month secured an investment from Amazon worth up to $4 billion.
According to the suit, filed on Wednesday in Tennessee, Anthropic and its AI assistant service Claude — reminiscent of chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT — allegedly infringed on...
The companies have filed a suit against Anthropic, an AI startup company founded by four former OpenAI employees in 2021 that had just last month secured an investment from Amazon worth up to $4 billion.
According to the suit, filed on Wednesday in Tennessee, Anthropic and its AI assistant service Claude — reminiscent of chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT — allegedly infringed on...
- 10/18/2023
- by Ethan Millman
- Rollingstone.com
Classic rock fans are better than anyone else at coming up with oddball theories. Fans thought one of Elton John’s songs was about Elvis Presley. John’s co-writer put an end to that idea. Regardless, the song still has lyrics that sound like they’re about the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Elton John songs were rumored to be about Elvis Presley and Marc Bolan
John’s chief writing partner has been lyricist Bernie Taupin. Together, the two wrote classic tracks such as “Candle in the Wind,” “Your Song,” and “Rocket Man.” During a 2023 interview with Vulture, Taupin discussed fan interpretations of his lyrics.
“People assume the songs are about things when they’re not,” he said. “In the book, I write about people thinking ‘I’m Going to Be a Teenage Idol’ was about [T. Rex singer] Marc Bolan, and it wasn’t. It could have been, and maybe it should have been,...
Elton John songs were rumored to be about Elvis Presley and Marc Bolan
John’s chief writing partner has been lyricist Bernie Taupin. Together, the two wrote classic tracks such as “Candle in the Wind,” “Your Song,” and “Rocket Man.” During a 2023 interview with Vulture, Taupin discussed fan interpretations of his lyrics.
“People assume the songs are about things when they’re not,” he said. “In the book, I write about people thinking ‘I’m Going to Be a Teenage Idol’ was about [T. Rex singer] Marc Bolan, and it wasn’t. It could have been, and maybe it should have been,...
- 10/11/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Classic rock fans are better than anyone else at coming up with oddball theories. Fans thought one of Elton John’s songs was about Elvis Presley. John’s co-writer put an end to that idea. Regardless, the song still has lyrics that sound like they’re about the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Elton John songs were rumored to be about Elvis Presley and Marc Bolan
John’s chief writing partner has been lyricist Bernie Taupin. Together, the two wrote classic tracks such as “Candle in the Wind,” “Your Song,” and “Rocket Man.” During a 2023 interview with Vulture, Taupin discussed fan interpretations of his lyrics.
“People assume the songs are about things when they’re not,” he said. “In the book, I write about people thinking ‘I’m Going to Be a Teenage Idol’ was about [T. Rex singer] Marc Bolan, and it wasn’t. It could have been, and maybe it should have been,...
Elton John songs were rumored to be about Elvis Presley and Marc Bolan
John’s chief writing partner has been lyricist Bernie Taupin. Together, the two wrote classic tracks such as “Candle in the Wind,” “Your Song,” and “Rocket Man.” During a 2023 interview with Vulture, Taupin discussed fan interpretations of his lyrics.
“People assume the songs are about things when they’re not,” he said. “In the book, I write about people thinking ‘I’m Going to Be a Teenage Idol’ was about [T. Rex singer] Marc Bolan, and it wasn’t. It could have been, and maybe it should have been,...
- 10/11/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Tori Amos decided to put her own spin on Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” She said fans told her to sing the song after Kurt Cobain died. She discussed what it was like to have fans sing “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” quickly became part of the classic rock canon. Following Kurt Cobain’s death, Tori Amos performed a live cover of the song in Ireland to help fans grieve. During an interview, Amos explained why she was willing to play “Smells Like Teen Spirit” soon after Cobain died.
Irish fans had Tori Amos play Nirvana’s ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ after Kurt Cobain’s death
During a 2021 interview with Stereogum, Amos said she initially covered “Smells Like Teen Spirit” because she wanted to make it sound more vulnerable. “A couple of years later in 1994, when I was in Berlin on tour,...
Tori Amos decided to put her own spin on Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” She said fans told her to sing the song after Kurt Cobain died. She discussed what it was like to have fans sing “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” quickly became part of the classic rock canon. Following Kurt Cobain’s death, Tori Amos performed a live cover of the song in Ireland to help fans grieve. During an interview, Amos explained why she was willing to play “Smells Like Teen Spirit” soon after Cobain died.
Irish fans had Tori Amos play Nirvana’s ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ after Kurt Cobain’s death
During a 2021 interview with Stereogum, Amos said she initially covered “Smells Like Teen Spirit” because she wanted to make it sound more vulnerable. “A couple of years later in 1994, when I was in Berlin on tour,...
- 6/18/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney remains one of rock music’s greatest icons today. Throughout his time with The Beatles, and even long after, he made some of the best-selling music of all time and got to know plenty of other famous stars in the process. Musician Buddy Holly had a career that started several years before McCartney joined The Beatles, but Holly’s influence over McCartney was evident throughout McCartney’s career. In fact, he was a big part of McCartney’s desire to become a famous musician.
McCartney once revealed that if he could say anything to Holly today, he’d ask him one — well, maybe two — important questions.
Paul McCartney in New Jersey in 2016 | Mike Coppola/Getty Images Paul McCartney was influenced by Buddy Holly’s music
It’s no secret that McCartney is a big Buddy Holly fan, but it’s lesser known that Holly is a big reason...
McCartney once revealed that if he could say anything to Holly today, he’d ask him one — well, maybe two — important questions.
Paul McCartney in New Jersey in 2016 | Mike Coppola/Getty Images Paul McCartney was influenced by Buddy Holly’s music
It’s no secret that McCartney is a big Buddy Holly fan, but it’s lesser known that Holly is a big reason...
- 5/19/2023
- by Julia Mullaney
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic Elvis has connection to a Kanye West song and electronica music. The West song in question was a minor hit in the United States. It appeared on one of West’s No. 1 albums. Elvis Presley | Bettmann / Contributor
Elvis Presley inspired Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, a film filled with stylistic historical inaccuracies. Notably, Luhrmann played one of Kanye West’s songs on set in order to achieve a certain mood. Subsequently, the star of Elvis said the movie was supposed to capture how dangerous Elvis felt in the 1950s.
Baz Luhrmann played 1 Kanye West song while filming an ‘Elvis’ scene set in Memphis
Luhrmann is known for his creative use of anachronisms in movies. For example, his film adaptation of the classic Roaring Twenties novel The Great Gatsby includes dubstep and rap while his version of William Shakespeare’s Rome and Juliet combines...
Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic Elvis has connection to a Kanye West song and electronica music. The West song in question was a minor hit in the United States. It appeared on one of West’s No. 1 albums. Elvis Presley | Bettmann / Contributor
Elvis Presley inspired Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, a film filled with stylistic historical inaccuracies. Notably, Luhrmann played one of Kanye West’s songs on set in order to achieve a certain mood. Subsequently, the star of Elvis said the movie was supposed to capture how dangerous Elvis felt in the 1950s.
Baz Luhrmann played 1 Kanye West song while filming an ‘Elvis’ scene set in Memphis
Luhrmann is known for his creative use of anachronisms in movies. For example, his film adaptation of the classic Roaring Twenties novel The Great Gatsby includes dubstep and rap while his version of William Shakespeare’s Rome and Juliet combines...
- 5/8/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Gordon Lightfoot wasn’t necessarily one of the biggest names in folk music and classic rock history. Still, the Canadian singer-songwriter left behind a significant legacy and a huge net worth when he died on May 1, 2023.
Gordon Lightfoot | Scott Dudelson/Getty Images Gordon Lightfoot’s had a $40 million net worth when he died
A fruitful decades-long career ended when Lightfoot died of natural causes at a Toronto hospital (per his verified Facebook page). He was 84.
Lightfoot found music as his muse in the late 1950s, started his recording career in the 1960s, and achieved his commercial peak in the 1970s. Yet he continued recording albums and playing live into the 2020s. He released the album Solo in 2020 and toured in 2022. However, Lightfoot canceled his 2023 tour.
The years of making and selling records, writing popular and heavily covered songs, and touring behind his music paid off. Lightfoot amassed a $40 million net...
Gordon Lightfoot | Scott Dudelson/Getty Images Gordon Lightfoot’s had a $40 million net worth when he died
A fruitful decades-long career ended when Lightfoot died of natural causes at a Toronto hospital (per his verified Facebook page). He was 84.
Lightfoot found music as his muse in the late 1950s, started his recording career in the 1960s, and achieved his commercial peak in the 1970s. Yet he continued recording albums and playing live into the 2020s. He released the album Solo in 2020 and toured in 2022. However, Lightfoot canceled his 2023 tour.
The years of making and selling records, writing popular and heavily covered songs, and touring behind his music paid off. Lightfoot amassed a $40 million net...
- 5/2/2023
- by Jason Rossi
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Earlier this week, President Joe Biden surprised absolutely no one when he announced on Wednesday that he’ll be running for reelection next year. Of course a big looming “if” hanging over this is the fact Biden is the oldest-ever president and he turns 82 in 2024. So of course on Thursday’s episode of NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” Jimmy Fallon had plenty of jokes about Biden, and his age.
But Fallon defended Biden, joking that Potus is “the same age as Lincoln… if he were still alive today.” The joke being that Biden was born in 1809.
First though, Fallon kicked things off with a look at this week’s state visit by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and the impressive impromptu performance of “American Pie” by Don McLean he gave at the White House. “There’s always that one friend at karaoke who knows they’re good, you know?...
But Fallon defended Biden, joking that Potus is “the same age as Lincoln… if he were still alive today.” The joke being that Biden was born in 1809.
First though, Fallon kicked things off with a look at this week’s state visit by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and the impressive impromptu performance of “American Pie” by Don McLean he gave at the White House. “There’s always that one friend at karaoke who knows they’re good, you know?...
- 4/28/2023
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
Angelina Jolie brought 21-year-old son Maddox Jolie-Pitt as her date to the White House state dinner in Washington DC on April 26. The pair arrived arm in arm to the soirée, which President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden hosted for South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. Jolie looked ethereal in a breezy white gown, matching blazer, and gold accessories, while Maddox looked sharp in a black suit and tie. The outing was a rare public appearance for Jolie and her eldest child, who studied at Yonsei University in Seoul and worked on the crew for Jolie's upcoming movie "Without Blood."
Several other notable stars were in attendance at the state dinner, including Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim and "Fixer Upper" duo Chip and Joanna Gaines. During the event, President Yoon surprised guests by singing one of his favorite songs, "American Pie," before Biden presented him with a guitar signed by Don McLean.
Several other notable stars were in attendance at the state dinner, including Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim and "Fixer Upper" duo Chip and Joanna Gaines. During the event, President Yoon surprised guests by singing one of his favorite songs, "American Pie," before Biden presented him with a guitar signed by Don McLean.
- 4/27/2023
- by Victoria Messina
- Popsugar.com
Update: The biggest surprise at the State Dinner was not any unexpected guest, but South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol singing a rendition of American Pie.
Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol sings “American Pie” by Don McLean during entertainment portion of State Dinner with President Biden. pic.twitter.com/M91Tj4WrHa
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) April 27, 2023
Previously: Angelina Jolie, Reginald Hudlin and Chip and Joanna Gaines are among the boldfaced names on the guest list for tonight’s White House State Dinner for South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The dinner follows President Joe Biden’s meeting with Yoon and subsequent press conference. The U.S. and South Korea announced an agreement designed to deter North Korea.
Jolie is scheduled to attend the dinner with son Maddox Jolie-Pitt. She has visited the Biden White House on reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.
Hudlin is attending with his wife,...
Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol sings “American Pie” by Don McLean during entertainment portion of State Dinner with President Biden. pic.twitter.com/M91Tj4WrHa
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) April 27, 2023
Previously: Angelina Jolie, Reginald Hudlin and Chip and Joanna Gaines are among the boldfaced names on the guest list for tonight’s White House State Dinner for South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The dinner follows President Joe Biden’s meeting with Yoon and subsequent press conference. The U.S. and South Korea announced an agreement designed to deter North Korea.
Jolie is scheduled to attend the dinner with son Maddox Jolie-Pitt. She has visited the Biden White House on reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.
Hudlin is attending with his wife,...
- 4/27/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
The MTV Movies & TV Awards nominations have been announced.
The big event is set to air Sunday, May 7th, at 8 p.m. Et.
Leading the pack with six nominations apiece is Top Gun: Maverick, Stranger Things, and The Last of Us.
The White Lotus and Wednesday each scored four nods.
Check out the full list of nominations below.
Best Movie
Avatar: The Way of Water
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Elvis
Nope
Scream VI
Smile
Top Gun: Maverick
Best Show
Stranger Things
The Last of Us
The White Lotus
Wednesday
Wolf Pack
Yellowstone
Yellowjackets
Best Performance In A Movie
Austin Butler — Elvis
Florence Pugh — Don’t Worry Darling
KeKe Palmer — Nope
Michael B. Jordan — Creed III
Tom Cruise — Top Gun: Maverick
Best Performance In A Show
Aubrey Plaza — The White Lotus
Christina Ricci — Yellowjackets
Jenna Ortega — Wednesday
Riley Keough — Daisy Jones & The Six
Sadie Sink — Stranger Things
Selena Gomez — Only Murders in the Building...
The big event is set to air Sunday, May 7th, at 8 p.m. Et.
Leading the pack with six nominations apiece is Top Gun: Maverick, Stranger Things, and The Last of Us.
The White Lotus and Wednesday each scored four nods.
Check out the full list of nominations below.
Best Movie
Avatar: The Way of Water
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Elvis
Nope
Scream VI
Smile
Top Gun: Maverick
Best Show
Stranger Things
The Last of Us
The White Lotus
Wednesday
Wolf Pack
Yellowstone
Yellowjackets
Best Performance In A Movie
Austin Butler — Elvis
Florence Pugh — Don’t Worry Darling
KeKe Palmer — Nope
Michael B. Jordan — Creed III
Tom Cruise — Top Gun: Maverick
Best Performance In A Show
Aubrey Plaza — The White Lotus
Christina Ricci — Yellowjackets
Jenna Ortega — Wednesday
Riley Keough — Daisy Jones & The Six
Sadie Sink — Stranger Things
Selena Gomez — Only Murders in the Building...
- 4/5/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
The 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards will air live from Barker Hangar on Sunday, May 7, hosted by Drew Barrymore in celebration of some of the biggest films and series of the past year. This year’s nominations are led by fan-favorites Top Gun: Maverick, Stranger Things, The Last of Us, The White Lotus, Wednesday, Jersey Shore Family Vacation, RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and Vanderpump Rules.
Big-screen giants such as Avatar: The Way of Water, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and Scream VI scored nominations in the Best Movie category,...
Big-screen giants such as Avatar: The Way of Water, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and Scream VI scored nominations in the Best Movie category,...
- 4/5/2023
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Elvis Presley‘s songs were often covers. Sometimes, the original versions of Elvis’ songs were by famous singers. For example, one of his most famous movie songs was first performed by Bing Crosby.
Elvis Presley | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer 5. ‘Hound Dog’
Big Mama Thornton wrote “Hound Dog” alongside Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the songwriting duo behind numerous other hits like “Jailhouse Rock,” Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me,” and Johnny Cash’s “Jackson.” Thornton performed the original version of the song, which was commercially overshadowed by Elvis’.
Baz Luhrmann’s biopic Elvis features Thornton as a minor character. Hopefully, the film will bring more attention to her and her talent.
4. ‘Blue Hawaii’
Thanks to the film of the same name, “Blue Hawaii” will forever be associated with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Despite this, he was not the first superstar to sing the song. “Blue Hawaii” wasn...
Elvis Presley | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer 5. ‘Hound Dog’
Big Mama Thornton wrote “Hound Dog” alongside Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the songwriting duo behind numerous other hits like “Jailhouse Rock,” Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me,” and Johnny Cash’s “Jackson.” Thornton performed the original version of the song, which was commercially overshadowed by Elvis’.
Baz Luhrmann’s biopic Elvis features Thornton as a minor character. Hopefully, the film will bring more attention to her and her talent.
4. ‘Blue Hawaii’
Thanks to the film of the same name, “Blue Hawaii” will forever be associated with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Despite this, he was not the first superstar to sing the song. “Blue Hawaii” wasn...
- 3/19/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Paul McCartney said Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” inspired The Beatles’ “Hey Jude.”Paul said The Beatles were “breaking boundaries [and] questioning previous values” thanks to Dylan.“Hey Jude” held a chart record until Don McLean’s “American Pie” became a hit in the United States. The Beatles | John Pratt/Keystone/Getty Images
Paul McCartney said Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” partly inspired The Beatles‘ “Hey Jude.” Notably, “Hey Jude” broke a record because of its success. Subsequently, Don McLean and Taylor Swift songs both broke the record.
Paul McCartney discussed crossing paths with Bob Dylan alongside The Rolling Stones’ Brian Jones and Keith Richards
In the 2015 book Conversations with McCartney, Paul discussed crossing paths with Dylan. “I remember going to see Dylan when he was at the Mayfair Hotel,” he said. “He’d be in the back room, there’d be me, Brian Jones,...
Paul McCartney said Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” inspired The Beatles’ “Hey Jude.”Paul said The Beatles were “breaking boundaries [and] questioning previous values” thanks to Dylan.“Hey Jude” held a chart record until Don McLean’s “American Pie” became a hit in the United States. The Beatles | John Pratt/Keystone/Getty Images
Paul McCartney said Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” partly inspired The Beatles‘ “Hey Jude.” Notably, “Hey Jude” broke a record because of its success. Subsequently, Don McLean and Taylor Swift songs both broke the record.
Paul McCartney discussed crossing paths with Bob Dylan alongside The Rolling Stones’ Brian Jones and Keith Richards
In the 2015 book Conversations with McCartney, Paul discussed crossing paths with Dylan. “I remember going to see Dylan when he was at the Mayfair Hotel,” he said. “He’d be in the back room, there’d be me, Brian Jones,...
- 2/7/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Why Don McLean Compared Bob Dylan’s ‘A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall’ to The Beatles’ ‘A Day in the Life’
Tl;Dr:
“American Pie” singer Don McLean discussed hearing Bob Dylan’s “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” live.He compared the song to The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life” and The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations.”“A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” appeared on one of Dylan’s acclaimed albums. Bob Dylan | Bettmann / Contributor
Don McLean said Bob Dylan‘s “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” was one of several classic rock songs that made him fall in love with music. In addition, he compared it to The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life.” He contrasted “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” with the work of modern songwriters.
Don McLean discussed the way Bob Dylan’s ‘A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall’ impacted him when he heard it live
In a 2022 interview with The Red Bulletin, McLean discussed some of the songs that made him fall in love with music.
“American Pie” singer Don McLean discussed hearing Bob Dylan’s “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” live.He compared the song to The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life” and The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations.”“A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” appeared on one of Dylan’s acclaimed albums. Bob Dylan | Bettmann / Contributor
Don McLean said Bob Dylan‘s “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” was one of several classic rock songs that made him fall in love with music. In addition, he compared it to The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life.” He contrasted “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” with the work of modern songwriters.
Don McLean discussed the way Bob Dylan’s ‘A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall’ impacted him when he heard it live
In a 2022 interview with The Red Bulletin, McLean discussed some of the songs that made him fall in love with music.
- 1/25/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In anticipation of the kick-off of the first round of Oscars voting on December 12, the academy released the titles of the features that were deemed eligible to compete in three categories: animated, documentary and international.
This voting only runs for four days, with the shortlists in 10 categories released on Dec. 21. The nominations in these, and the other 13 categories, will be revealed on Jan. 24, 2023. The 95th Academy Awards are March 12, 2023.
Animated Feature (27 entries)
Voting on this award is restricted to academy members from any branch who volunteer to be on the screening committee and attest to having watched their assigned entries. Members rank their top five choices and a multi-step system of counting winnows the various contenders down to the final five nominees.
“Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood”
“The Bad Guys”
“The Bob’s Burgers Movie”
“Charlotte”
“DC League of Super-Pets”
“Drifting Home”
“Eternal Spring”
“Goodbye, Don Glees!”
“Guillermo del Toro...
This voting only runs for four days, with the shortlists in 10 categories released on Dec. 21. The nominations in these, and the other 13 categories, will be revealed on Jan. 24, 2023. The 95th Academy Awards are March 12, 2023.
Animated Feature (27 entries)
Voting on this award is restricted to academy members from any branch who volunteer to be on the screening committee and attest to having watched their assigned entries. Members rank their top five choices and a multi-step system of counting winnows the various contenders down to the final five nominees.
“Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood”
“The Bad Guys”
“The Bob’s Burgers Movie”
“Charlotte”
“DC League of Super-Pets”
“Drifting Home”
“Eternal Spring”
“Goodbye, Don Glees!”
“Guillermo del Toro...
- 12/6/2022
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
A total of 144 feature documentaries are being made available to voters in the Documentary Branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, according to emails send to branch members by the Academy.
Almost all of the films have been put on the members-only streaming platform devoted to the category, with five final films listed as “coming shortly.” While the Academy’s official list of qualifying films in the category will likely not be released until December, a recent email to doc-branch members said that the 27 films added in November and the five due to be added shortly would be the “final release” of eligible documentaries.
If all 144 films meet the requirements, the field will be six films larger than last year’s 138 qualifying films. The record was set in 2020, when the Covid- era relaxation of eligibility requirements led to 238 films qualifying in the doc-feature category.
Also Read:
‘Good Night Oppy...
Almost all of the films have been put on the members-only streaming platform devoted to the category, with five final films listed as “coming shortly.” While the Academy’s official list of qualifying films in the category will likely not be released until December, a recent email to doc-branch members said that the 27 films added in November and the five due to be added shortly would be the “final release” of eligible documentaries.
If all 144 films meet the requirements, the field will be six films larger than last year’s 138 qualifying films. The record was set in 2020, when the Covid- era relaxation of eligibility requirements led to 238 films qualifying in the doc-feature category.
Also Read:
‘Good Night Oppy...
- 11/14/2022
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
How Weird Al Yankovic approaches parody is markedly different than how many other artists use pre-existing material for comedy. Rarely is his aim to mock the song he is reinventing, which is how most people approach parody. Sure, occasionally the two are linked, such as making fun of Kurt Cobain's mumbly vocals with "Smells Like Nirvana," but the lyrical content of his songs almost never has anything to do with the original pieces of music. The links between "Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace" and Don McLean's "American Pie" or "The Brady Bunch" and Men Without Hats' "Safety Dance" basically don't exist. What Weird Al is really parodying is the self-seriousness of music.
Yankovic takes the formal structure of these popular songs and changes the lyrics to make them about something silly, like food, television, or menial tasks. The musicianship displayed is still top notch, as...
Yankovic takes the formal structure of these popular songs and changes the lyrics to make them about something silly, like food, television, or menial tasks. The musicianship displayed is still top notch, as...
- 11/4/2022
- by Mike Shutt
- Slash Film
When Taylor Swift released "Red (Taylor's Version)" in November 2021, the second of her rerecorded albums, she also directed "All Too Well: The Short Film." The almost-15-minute video stars Sadie Sink and Dylan O'Brien as a couple who fall in love and break up, all to the tune of "All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor's Version)." In addition to serving as the short's director, Swift appears at the end as the older and wiser version of Sink's character, complete with red hair. On Aug. 12, The Hollywood Reporter reported that the film is eligible for an Oscar at the 2023 ceremony, competing in the best live-action short category.
At first glance, the short's chance at a statue might be confusing for movie-lovers. The eligibility period for feature-length films - the ones that compete for best picture and best documentary - is Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. But the eligibility window for shorts is Oct.
At first glance, the short's chance at a statue might be confusing for movie-lovers. The eligibility period for feature-length films - the ones that compete for best picture and best documentary - is Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. But the eligibility window for shorts is Oct.
- 8/15/2022
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
‘McEnroe’, ‘Explorer’ also out as holdovers dominate.
UK family feature The Railway Children Return headlines the new titles at the UK-Ireland box office this weekend, releasing in 626 locations through Studiocanal.
Directed by Morgan Matthews, The Railway Children Return is a sequel to Lionel Jeffries’ 1970 feature The Railway Children. That film was based on E. Nesbit’s 1906 novel of the same name, about a family who move from London to beside a rural railway station, after the father is imprisoned on false accusations of spying.
The sequel is set during the Second World War, about a group of child evacuees from...
UK family feature The Railway Children Return headlines the new titles at the UK-Ireland box office this weekend, releasing in 626 locations through Studiocanal.
Directed by Morgan Matthews, The Railway Children Return is a sequel to Lionel Jeffries’ 1970 feature The Railway Children. That film was based on E. Nesbit’s 1906 novel of the same name, about a family who move from London to beside a rural railway station, after the father is imprisoned on false accusations of spying.
The sequel is set during the Second World War, about a group of child evacuees from...
- 7/15/2022
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
"No one's ever really written anything like it since." Paramount is releasing this music history documentary The Day The Music Died: American Pie streaming on Paramount+ next week. We're just catching up with this trailer and considering it looks like a good doc it's worth featuring. Fifty years ago, Don McLean's "American Pie" entered music history. It was a tumultuous time for the country, with political upheaval, civil unrest, a generational divide, and social turmoil. A half-century may have gone by, some things never change... including the enduring popularity of "American Pie." It's an extraordinary, wide-ranging look at the creation of the song -- but also its inspiration: the tragic plane crash that killed Buddy Holly. It examines the social upheaval & political unrest of the late 60s, including interviews with Garth Brooks, Brian Wilson, Jade Bird and "Weird Al" Yankovic, it's a kaleidoscopic journey through the evolution and legacy...
- 7/13/2022
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Disney’s “Thor: Love And Thunder,” starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Christian Bale and Tessa Thompson, debuted atop the U.K. and Ireland box office with a mighty £12.2 million (14.6 million), according to numbers released by Comscore.
Last week’s topper, Universal’s “Minions: The Rise Of Gru,” placed second in its second weekend with £4.3 million for a total of £18.4 million. In its third weekend, Warner Bros.’ “Elvis” was in third position with £1.3 million and now has a total of £13.8 million.
Tom Cruise vehicle, Paramount’s “Top Gun: Maverick,” the leading grosser of 2022 in the territory so far, continued soaring with £1 million in fourth place and has a hefty £70.6 million total after seven weekends.
Rounding off the top five was Universal’s “Jurassic World: Dominion” with £560,166 and a total of £31.7 million after five weekends.
There were three debuts in the top 10 this past weekend. Rse’s Pakistani film “London Nahi Jaunga,...
Last week’s topper, Universal’s “Minions: The Rise Of Gru,” placed second in its second weekend with £4.3 million for a total of £18.4 million. In its third weekend, Warner Bros.’ “Elvis” was in third position with £1.3 million and now has a total of £13.8 million.
Tom Cruise vehicle, Paramount’s “Top Gun: Maverick,” the leading grosser of 2022 in the territory so far, continued soaring with £1 million in fourth place and has a hefty £70.6 million total after seven weekends.
Rounding off the top five was Universal’s “Jurassic World: Dominion” with £560,166 and a total of £31.7 million after five weekends.
There were three debuts in the top 10 this past weekend. Rse’s Pakistani film “London Nahi Jaunga,...
- 7/13/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Don Graham, the music promotion pioneer who worked at Warner Bros. Records, A&m Records and Blue Thumb Records with the likes of Edd “Kookie” Byrnes and Connie Stevens, The Everly Brothers and Ike & Tina Turner, has died. He was 87.
Graham died Thursday in Los Angeles of stomach cancer, his family announced.
In 1958, Graham learned that Warner Bros. was about to start a record label and soon became head of its San Francisco operations. Under his leadership, Warner Bros. Records signed actors Edd “Kookie” Byrnes, Connie Stevens and Tab Hunter, plus The Everly Brothers and Peter, Paul & Mary.
One of Warner Bros.’ first records to be successful was “Kookie, Kookie, Lend Me Your Comb” by Kookie and Stevens, based on Byrnes’ popular character on the ABC show 77 Sunset Strip. When top San Francisco radio station Kya would not add the song to its playlist,...
Don Graham, the music promotion pioneer who worked at Warner Bros. Records, A&m Records and Blue Thumb Records with the likes of Edd “Kookie” Byrnes and Connie Stevens, The Everly Brothers and Ike & Tina Turner, has died. He was 87.
Graham died Thursday in Los Angeles of stomach cancer, his family announced.
In 1958, Graham learned that Warner Bros. was about to start a record label and soon became head of its San Francisco operations. Under his leadership, Warner Bros. Records signed actors Edd “Kookie” Byrnes, Connie Stevens and Tab Hunter, plus The Everly Brothers and Peter, Paul & Mary.
One of Warner Bros.’ first records to be successful was “Kookie, Kookie, Lend Me Your Comb” by Kookie and Stevens, based on Byrnes’ popular character on the ABC show 77 Sunset Strip. When top San Francisco radio station Kya would not add the song to its playlist,...
- 7/12/2022
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The nation’s fourth-largest cinema chain is testing a new subscription program called MovieFlex+ that includes a curated set of small and mid-sized films each week for no extra charge.
“We can’t live off just blockbusters,” chairman and CEO Greg Marcus tells Deadline. “We cannot just live off dinner. We need breakfast and lunch too.”
The launch of the 14.99 monthly service comes as the box office renaissance for wide-release studio franchises is clear, but whether that’s trickling down to smaller films less so. At issue is the long-term health of a theatrical ecosystem with breadth and depth of product.
Marcus began testing MovieFlex+ in two markets in January along with a general subscription plan, also new, called MovieFlex for 9.99 a month that offers one free film of choice. Both programs have deals on concessions and other perks. At two Columbus theaters, Crossroads and Pickering, where both programs are available,...
“We can’t live off just blockbusters,” chairman and CEO Greg Marcus tells Deadline. “We cannot just live off dinner. We need breakfast and lunch too.”
The launch of the 14.99 monthly service comes as the box office renaissance for wide-release studio franchises is clear, but whether that’s trickling down to smaller films less so. At issue is the long-term health of a theatrical ecosystem with breadth and depth of product.
Marcus began testing MovieFlex+ in two markets in January along with a general subscription plan, also new, called MovieFlex for 9.99 a month that offers one free film of choice. Both programs have deals on concessions and other perks. At two Columbus theaters, Crossroads and Pickering, where both programs are available,...
- 7/8/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount+ announced that The Day The Music Died: The Story Of Don McLean’S “American Pie” will premiere exclusively on the service Tuesday, July 19, both in the U.S. and internationally where the service is available. Additionally, the documentary will have a special Academy qualifying run in New York City and Los Angeles starting on July […]
The post Paramount+ Releases Trailer For New Music Documentary ‘The Day The Music Died: American Pie’ appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
The post Paramount+ Releases Trailer For New Music Documentary ‘The Day The Music Died: American Pie’ appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
- 6/22/2022
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Paramount+ has announced that it will exclusively stream The Day the Music Died: The Story of Don McLean’s “American Pie” beginning Tuesday, July 19. The documentary explores the narrative that runs deeper than the catchy tune behind McLean’s famous song which has become a musical phenomenon woven into the history of American culture for the past 50 years. For the first time ever, McLean is revealing the secrets behind the iconic song as the documentary highlights cultural moments in the country’s history. The film tells the stories of people who are part of this moment from the beginning and shows the point of view of a new generation of artists who are motivated by the same values and ideas that inspired “American Pie.” (Credit: Courtesy of Paramount+) “This documentary is something that will make people think, especially since so many throughout the years have asked me what certain lyrics...
- 6/22/2022
- TV Insider
Exclusive: Paramount+ announced today that its documentary The Day the Music Died: The Story of Don McLean’s “American Pie” will premiere exclusively on the streamer on July 19th, both in the U.S. and internationally, where the service is available. The film will also get an Academy-qualifying run in Los Angeles and New York City starting on July 8th, screening in Showcase Cinemas and associated theaters globally on July 14th and 17th.
With a narrative running deeper than a catchy tune and cryptic verses, “American Pie” is a musical phenomenon woven deep into the history of American culture, which has entertained audiences around the world for over 50 years. The documentary watches as McLean, for the first time, reveals the secrets behind his iconic song. It will also highlight cultural moments in America’s history that are as relevant now as they were when the song was released in 1971.
McLean is a Grammy Award honoree,...
With a narrative running deeper than a catchy tune and cryptic verses, “American Pie” is a musical phenomenon woven deep into the history of American culture, which has entertained audiences around the world for over 50 years. The documentary watches as McLean, for the first time, reveals the secrets behind his iconic song. It will also highlight cultural moments in America’s history that are as relevant now as they were when the song was released in 1971.
McLean is a Grammy Award honoree,...
- 6/22/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Music is a powerful force that connects members of a generation, and when an icon of that generation passes away, the loss is felt among the masses; it is especially shocking when that larger-than-life celebrity dies suddenly and at a young age. Sadly, we have lost several musical artists much too soon, often due to the pressure, exposure or commitments that come with fame. Tour our photo gallery remembering 30 music legends and the details around their tragic deaths.
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
- 6/16/2022
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
Music is a powerful force that connects members of a generation, and when an icon of that generation passes away, the loss is felt among the masses; it is especially shocking when that larger-than-life celebrity dies suddenly and at a young age. Sadly, we have lost several musical artists much too soon, often due to the pressure, exposure or commitments that come with fame. Tour our photo gallery remembering 30 music legends and the details around their tragic deaths.
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
- 6/16/2022
- by Susan Pennington, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
After a string of performers pulled out of this weekend’s planned NRA “Grand Ol’ Night of Freedom” concert in Houston, the musical event apparently has been canceled.
The concert was to have taken place during the organization’s annual conference. “American Pie” singer Don McLean, Larry Gatlin, Larry Stewart, Lee Greenwood, T. Graham Brown and Danielle Peck all canceled in the past few days, and this morning the only remaining act, country singer Jacob Bryant, posted on Twitter, “The show has been cancelled since yesterday.”
The show has been cancelled since yesterday.
— Jacob Bryant Music (@Jacobbryant1) May 27, 2022
While there doesn’t seem to have been any official announcement from the NRA, the page on its website once devoted to the event — billed as “A Saturday night concert like no other” — reads simply, “We’re sorry. We can’t find that page.”
The concert’s cancellation comes, of course, in...
The concert was to have taken place during the organization’s annual conference. “American Pie” singer Don McLean, Larry Gatlin, Larry Stewart, Lee Greenwood, T. Graham Brown and Danielle Peck all canceled in the past few days, and this morning the only remaining act, country singer Jacob Bryant, posted on Twitter, “The show has been cancelled since yesterday.”
The show has been cancelled since yesterday.
— Jacob Bryant Music (@Jacobbryant1) May 27, 2022
While there doesn’t seem to have been any official announcement from the NRA, the page on its website once devoted to the event — billed as “A Saturday night concert like no other” — reads simply, “We’re sorry. We can’t find that page.”
The concert’s cancellation comes, of course, in...
- 5/27/2022
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
A country music concert slated for this weekend’s NRA Convention in Houston just lost another performer. Larry Gatlin, a member of the country trio the Gatlin Brothers, has dropped out of the lineup. The 74-year-old vocalist and songwriter behind Gatlin Brothers hits like “All the Gold in California” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You)” says in a statement that he “cannot, in good conscience, perform at the NRA convention in Houston” following Tuesday’s massacre at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, that left 19 students and two teachers dead.
- 5/26/2022
- by Joseph Hudak
- Rollingstone.com
“American Idol” continues on March 13 for its fifth season on ABC and 20th overall. As always, Ryan Seacrest hosts the reality TV competition series while country superstar Luke Bryan, pop princess Katy Perry and Oscar-winning singer/songwriter Lionel Richie make up the judging panel.
This season the judges embark on yet another nationwide search for America’s next singing sensation. Auditions were held in Nashville, Tennessee, Austin, Texas and Los Angeles, California. If given a golden ticket, hopeful idols will advance to the Hollywood round. In a new twist this season, three contestants will be given a Platinum Ticket, which allows them to skip the first phase of Hollywood week. Huntergirl and Kenedi Anderson received the first two. Will the final Platinum Ticket be handed out tonight?
See Everything to know about ‘American Idol’ Season 20
Below, follow along with all the action on Night 3 of Season 20 of “American Idol.”
8:00 p.
This season the judges embark on yet another nationwide search for America’s next singing sensation. Auditions were held in Nashville, Tennessee, Austin, Texas and Los Angeles, California. If given a golden ticket, hopeful idols will advance to the Hollywood round. In a new twist this season, three contestants will be given a Platinum Ticket, which allows them to skip the first phase of Hollywood week. Huntergirl and Kenedi Anderson received the first two. Will the final Platinum Ticket be handed out tonight?
See Everything to know about ‘American Idol’ Season 20
Below, follow along with all the action on Night 3 of Season 20 of “American Idol.”
8:00 p.
- 3/14/2022
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Meeting Lionel Richie proved to be a religious experience for men and women of all ages on Sunday’s American Idol, elevating him to “Bell-Bottom Jesus” status.
The first to weep at the sight of Richie’s iconic ‘stache was Tristen Gressett, an Alabama teen whose peace necklace, feather earring and love of James Brown screamed old soul. So it came as no surprise when the 17-year-old said, “I want to bring back something that never should have left — soul.” The natural showman came in hot with a big performance of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” playing well to the...
The first to weep at the sight of Richie’s iconic ‘stache was Tristen Gressett, an Alabama teen whose peace necklace, feather earring and love of James Brown screamed old soul. So it came as no surprise when the 17-year-old said, “I want to bring back something that never should have left — soul.” The natural showman came in hot with a big performance of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” playing well to the...
- 3/14/2022
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
New Kids on the Block released a video for their new song “Bring Back the Time” last week that’s perhaps the most potent expression of nostalgia we’ve ever seen. It’s the past in its purest, most uncut form, like it was created in Walter White’s secret basement laboratory and injected directly into the veins of their fans.
The video, which doubles as a commercial for the group’s upcoming Mixtape Tour, features Rick Astley, Salt-n-Pepa, and En Vogue (who are all on the tour) re-creating classic...
The video, which doubles as a commercial for the group’s upcoming Mixtape Tour, features Rick Astley, Salt-n-Pepa, and En Vogue (who are all on the tour) re-creating classic...
- 3/7/2022
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
Ralph Emery, the country music disc jockey and television host who came to prominence on Nashville’s Wsm, died on Saturday of natural causes, while surrounded by family at Nashville’s Tristar Centennial Medical Center, his son Michael told AP. He was 88.
Among those paying tribute to Emery today was “American Pie” singer-songwriter Don McLean. “Ralph Emery was my friend. I did his show many times and he was kind enough to send me a Christmas card every year. He had that special country music knowledge and that voice,” McLean said in a statement provided by his publicist. “Ralph was to country music what Mel Allen was to the Yankees.”
Born on March 10, 1933 in McEwen, Tennessee, Emery was an inductee of both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the National Radio Hall of Fame who served as Wsm’s all-night disc jockey from 1957 to 1972, there hosting live performances by,...
Among those paying tribute to Emery today was “American Pie” singer-songwriter Don McLean. “Ralph Emery was my friend. I did his show many times and he was kind enough to send me a Christmas card every year. He had that special country music knowledge and that voice,” McLean said in a statement provided by his publicist. “Ralph was to country music what Mel Allen was to the Yankees.”
Born on March 10, 1933 in McEwen, Tennessee, Emery was an inductee of both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the National Radio Hall of Fame who served as Wsm’s all-night disc jockey from 1957 to 1972, there hosting live performances by,...
- 1/16/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
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