Pop history is littered with prolific partnerships, but the artist-producer pairing is arguably one of the most indispensable. Not only can an intrepid knob-twirler coax the best out of an artist, the most fruitful of these collaborations are often reciprocal. Think George Martin and the Beatles; Timbaland and Missy Elliott; or Jam & Lewis and Janet Jackson. Taylor Swift and former Fun guitarist-drummer Jack Antonoff have both achieved commercial and critical success outside of their work together, but their alliance over the last several years has, more often than not, resulted in pop magic.
The duo first worked together over a decade ago, on the unassuming “Sweeter Than Fiction,” a song from the British-American film One Chance. The following year, Antonoff co-wrote and co-produced three tracks for Swift’s blockbuster album 1989, the success of which propelled him to the top of every A&r exec’s wish list, helming tracks for Pink,...
The duo first worked together over a decade ago, on the unassuming “Sweeter Than Fiction,” a song from the British-American film One Chance. The following year, Antonoff co-wrote and co-produced three tracks for Swift’s blockbuster album 1989, the success of which propelled him to the top of every A&r exec’s wish list, helming tracks for Pink,...
- 4/29/2024
- by Slant Staff
- Slant Magazine
Love them or hate them, The Beatles‘ legacy is impossible to understate. Paul McCartney seemed to appreciate it even if he didn’t comprehend it. On the other hand, John Lennon dismissed the group’s significance.
Paul McCartney said The Beatles had a legacy because they represented ‘freedom’
During a 2010 interview with The Repository, Paul was asked if he understood The Beatles’ impact. “That’s what’s so amazing: It isn’t quite possible,” he replied. “It’s nearly possible. I think as time goes by I kind of understand a little bit more, just the reflective lens lends a bit of clarity to it,” he said. “I meet so many people that just sort of say, ‘I want to thank you for your music. It really helped me’ or ‘It changed my life.'”
The “Silly Love Songs” singer said the Fab Four’s importance extended beyond their music.
Paul McCartney said The Beatles had a legacy because they represented ‘freedom’
During a 2010 interview with The Repository, Paul was asked if he understood The Beatles’ impact. “That’s what’s so amazing: It isn’t quite possible,” he replied. “It’s nearly possible. I think as time goes by I kind of understand a little bit more, just the reflective lens lends a bit of clarity to it,” he said. “I meet so many people that just sort of say, ‘I want to thank you for your music. It really helped me’ or ‘It changed my life.'”
The “Silly Love Songs” singer said the Fab Four’s importance extended beyond their music.
- 2/29/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Nancy Sinatra covering The Beatles‘ “Something” is probably the single most 1960s thing imaginable. However, Sinatra didn’t finish and release her cover until 2013. Sadly, the “Sugar Town” singer did not have much to say about George Harrison, the sole composer of “Something.”
Nancy Sinatra felt 2013 was about time she put out a cover of The Beatles’ ‘Something’
Sinatra’s 2013 album Shifting Gears features covers of The Beatles’ “Something,” Jimmy Webb’s “MacArthur Park,” and other classic songs from her vaults. During a 2013 interview with Vice, Sinatra discussed why she didn’t finish recording those songs for years. “Well, they didn’t really fit what I was doing for most of my career, you know?” she said. “The truth is I didn’t want them to just die in the vault, I wanted them to get out and get some fresh air and be heard by my fans.
“The vocals...
Nancy Sinatra felt 2013 was about time she put out a cover of The Beatles’ ‘Something’
Sinatra’s 2013 album Shifting Gears features covers of The Beatles’ “Something,” Jimmy Webb’s “MacArthur Park,” and other classic songs from her vaults. During a 2013 interview with Vice, Sinatra discussed why she didn’t finish recording those songs for years. “Well, they didn’t really fit what I was doing for most of my career, you know?” she said. “The truth is I didn’t want them to just die in the vault, I wanted them to get out and get some fresh air and be heard by my fans.
“The vocals...
- 9/22/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Neil Sedaka wrote a song inspired by John Lennon’s life. The song was also inspired by another musician who was not nearly as famous. Sedaka’s song might not exist without a news report about immigration to the United States.
John Lennon‘s struggles immigrating to the United States inspired a Neil Sedaka song. Sedaka said the tune remains relevant. Despite this, the other writer of “The Immigrant” didn’t like the track very much.
Neil Sedaka’s song ‘The Immigrant’ was influenced by John Lennon’s life
During a 2023 interview with MSNBC, Sedaka discussed the origin of his song “The Immigrant.” He said he wrote the tune for John because the former Beatle was having difficulty immigrating to the United States at the time. Notably, Sedaka was friends with John.
Sedaka noted that he came from an immigrant family, as did his co-writer, Philip Cody. He...
Neil Sedaka wrote a song inspired by John Lennon’s life. The song was also inspired by another musician who was not nearly as famous. Sedaka’s song might not exist without a news report about immigration to the United States.
John Lennon‘s struggles immigrating to the United States inspired a Neil Sedaka song. Sedaka said the tune remains relevant. Despite this, the other writer of “The Immigrant” didn’t like the track very much.
Neil Sedaka’s song ‘The Immigrant’ was influenced by John Lennon’s life
During a 2023 interview with MSNBC, Sedaka discussed the origin of his song “The Immigrant.” He said he wrote the tune for John because the former Beatle was having difficulty immigrating to the United States at the time. Notably, Sedaka was friends with John.
Sedaka noted that he came from an immigrant family, as did his co-writer, Philip Cody. He...
- 7/13/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Elvis Presley’s “Solitaire” was also recorded by Andy Williams and other artists. A writer of the song listened to all 90 recordings of the song and picked a favorite. Elvis’ version appeared on the album From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee.
Elvis Presley‘s “Solitaire” was originally by Neil Sedaka. The co-writer of the song wasn’t a fan of Elvis’ version. On the other hand, he loved a cover of the song by The Carpenters.
A songwriter disliked that Elvis Presley’s ‘Solitaire’ was from the singer’s ‘fat’ period
Phillip Cody is a songwriter who worked with Neil Sedaka on multiple occasions. He co-wrote Sedaka songs such as “Bad Blood,” “The Immigrant,” and “Solitaire.” The latter song became a standard. The artists who recorded “Solitaire” included The Carpenters, Andy Williams, Sheryl Crowe, and Elvis Presley.
During a 2011 interview with Songfacts, Cody discussed his feelings about Elvis’ “Solitaire.
Elvis Presley’s “Solitaire” was also recorded by Andy Williams and other artists. A writer of the song listened to all 90 recordings of the song and picked a favorite. Elvis’ version appeared on the album From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee.
Elvis Presley‘s “Solitaire” was originally by Neil Sedaka. The co-writer of the song wasn’t a fan of Elvis’ version. On the other hand, he loved a cover of the song by The Carpenters.
A songwriter disliked that Elvis Presley’s ‘Solitaire’ was from the singer’s ‘fat’ period
Phillip Cody is a songwriter who worked with Neil Sedaka on multiple occasions. He co-wrote Sedaka songs such as “Bad Blood,” “The Immigrant,” and “Solitaire.” The latter song became a standard. The artists who recorded “Solitaire” included The Carpenters, Andy Williams, Sheryl Crowe, and Elvis Presley.
During a 2011 interview with Songfacts, Cody discussed his feelings about Elvis’ “Solitaire.
- 7/12/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
All members of The Monkees wrote a jazz song called “Goin’ Down” with help from another songwriter. Micky Dolenz initially sang the song a lot slower than it appeared on record. “Goin’ Down” was the B-side to The Monkees’ classic No. 1 single “Daydream Believer.” All members of The Monkees | James Jackson / Stringer
The members of The Monkees usually didn’t write their own songs. Despite this, all Monkees members came together to write a jazz song. Notably, the song in question was inspired by an earlier classic jazz track.
Micky Dolenz said members of The Monkees deserved credit along with their songwriters
During a 2019 interview with Wonderlust, Dolenz discussed how The Monkees made their music. “I was blessed to be part of it,” he said. “The Monkees was not just the four of us.
“It was songwriters [an all-star lineup of Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka, Neil Diamond],” he added. “It was producers.
All members of The Monkees wrote a jazz song called “Goin’ Down” with help from another songwriter. Micky Dolenz initially sang the song a lot slower than it appeared on record. “Goin’ Down” was the B-side to The Monkees’ classic No. 1 single “Daydream Believer.” All members of The Monkees | James Jackson / Stringer
The members of The Monkees usually didn’t write their own songs. Despite this, all Monkees members came together to write a jazz song. Notably, the song in question was inspired by an earlier classic jazz track.
Micky Dolenz said members of The Monkees deserved credit along with their songwriters
During a 2019 interview with Wonderlust, Dolenz discussed how The Monkees made their music. “I was blessed to be part of it,” he said. “The Monkees was not just the four of us.
“It was songwriters [an all-star lineup of Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka, Neil Diamond],” he added. “It was producers.
- 4/17/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Neil Sedaka wrote three Monkees songs, one of which Davy Jones released as a solo song. One of the songs in question uses a lot of ape metaphors. Another one of the songs was co-written by an important professional songwriter. Neil Sedaka | Gab Archive / Contributor
Neil Sedaka’s songs continue to fascinate classic rock fans to this very day. In addition to writing his own material, Sedaka also wrote a few Monkees songs. One of the tunes he wrote became Davy Jones’ only charting solo single.
3. ‘I Go Ape’
The early 1960s was a golden age for novelty songs, producing such hits as Brian Hyland’s “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini,” Peter, Paul and Mary’s “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” and Elvis Presley’s “Rock-a-Hula Baby.” The arrival of The Beatles mostly put an end to this trend, though they occasionally wrote similar songs like “Yellow Submarine.
Neil Sedaka wrote three Monkees songs, one of which Davy Jones released as a solo song. One of the songs in question uses a lot of ape metaphors. Another one of the songs was co-written by an important professional songwriter. Neil Sedaka | Gab Archive / Contributor
Neil Sedaka’s songs continue to fascinate classic rock fans to this very day. In addition to writing his own material, Sedaka also wrote a few Monkees songs. One of the tunes he wrote became Davy Jones’ only charting solo single.
3. ‘I Go Ape’
The early 1960s was a golden age for novelty songs, producing such hits as Brian Hyland’s “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini,” Peter, Paul and Mary’s “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” and Elvis Presley’s “Rock-a-Hula Baby.” The arrival of The Beatles mostly put an end to this trend, though they occasionally wrote similar songs like “Yellow Submarine.
- 4/3/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
“I wonder what it’s like up there?” ponders 83-year-old Chip Taylor on The Cradle of All Living Things, the extraordinary new album he feared would be his last. He’s addressing his wife, Joan, as he tilts tenderly into a chorus that imagines love beyond death: “Do you close your eyes/ And look into mine?/ You are my closing time.”
The woman he married in 1964 can’t hear the song, though. A series of strokes have left Joan deaf. Which is why several of the songs on the album stress the importance of their remaining senses. Taylor sings, “I know that I don’t see much/ Close my eyes and it is you that I touch/ I touch your hair, I touch your nose, I touch your lips/ baby, I suppose…”
Fifty years on since he wrote some of rock’s rawest declarations of youthful passion – including “Wild Thing...
The woman he married in 1964 can’t hear the song, though. A series of strokes have left Joan deaf. Which is why several of the songs on the album stress the importance of their remaining senses. Taylor sings, “I know that I don’t see much/ Close my eyes and it is you that I touch/ I touch your hair, I touch your nose, I touch your lips/ baby, I suppose…”
Fifty years on since he wrote some of rock’s rawest declarations of youthful passion – including “Wild Thing...
- 4/2/2023
- by Helen Brown
- The Independent - Music
The Monkees‘ Mike Nesmith couldn’t make sense of his band’s success. Subsequently, he discussed what he thought about them potentially entering the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Notably, the group was a hit from the beginning.
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer Why Mike Nesmith turned down a chance to write with Carole King
Numerous famous songwriters wrote tunes for The Monkees, including Neil Diamond, Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka, and Harry Nilsson. During a 2014 interview with App, Nesmith was asked if he learned anything from the work of these songwriters.
“Actually, a lot of what they did was lost on me,” he said. “I had no real understanding of the pop song — or even the pop culture — which is to say pop art. That understanding developed much later for me.”
Nesmith said King asked to write a song with him. He was intimidated...
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer Why Mike Nesmith turned down a chance to write with Carole King
Numerous famous songwriters wrote tunes for The Monkees, including Neil Diamond, Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka, and Harry Nilsson. During a 2014 interview with App, Nesmith was asked if he learned anything from the work of these songwriters.
“Actually, a lot of what they did was lost on me,” he said. “I had no real understanding of the pop song — or even the pop culture — which is to say pop art. That understanding developed much later for me.”
Nesmith said King asked to write a song with him. He was intimidated...
- 3/28/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Mike Nesmith was a songwriter ahead of his success with The Monkees. Therefore, he felt a kinship with other like-minded people who also found creative release in this job. He was lucky enough to work alongside some of the greatest writers in the industry for The Monkees. Carole King was one of these songwriters. However, for as much as he “loved” King, Nesmith claimed, “I just can’t stand her records.”
Mike Nesmith and Carole King collaborated on Monkees hits | Fox Photos/Jim McCrary/Redferns/Getty Images How many songs did Carole King write for The Monkees?
Carole King was one of the dozen or more songwriters enlisted to write music for The Monkees’ television series. King was among the many songwriters associated with Don Kirshner of New York’s The Brill Building.
King and her husband Gerry Goffin wrote for The Monkees. So did Tommy Boyce, Neil Diamond, Bobby Hart,...
Mike Nesmith and Carole King collaborated on Monkees hits | Fox Photos/Jim McCrary/Redferns/Getty Images How many songs did Carole King write for The Monkees?
Carole King was one of the dozen or more songwriters enlisted to write music for The Monkees’ television series. King was among the many songwriters associated with Don Kirshner of New York’s The Brill Building.
King and her husband Gerry Goffin wrote for The Monkees. So did Tommy Boyce, Neil Diamond, Bobby Hart,...
- 3/15/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
As a member of The Monkees, Mike Nesmith was responsible for writing some of the band’s most unforgettable songs. Although behind-the-scenes of The Monkees television show, the powers-that-be relied on a stable of prolific songwriters to pen many of the band’s tunes, Nesmith muscled his way into their league with a series of songs that remain fan favorites to this day. However, he could not shake one song in particular, which appeared on deluxe editions of two Monkees albums and two of his solo recordings.
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith was a songwriter before The Monkees
Before being cast as one-fourth of The Monkees, Mike Nesmith was a songwriter. Per TCM, in 1963, Nesmith performed at various folk venues, including The Troubadour. He met Randy Sparks of the New Christy Minstrels there and earned a songwriting publishing deal.
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith was a songwriter before The Monkees
Before being cast as one-fourth of The Monkees, Mike Nesmith was a songwriter. Per TCM, in 1963, Nesmith performed at various folk venues, including The Troubadour. He met Randy Sparks of the New Christy Minstrels there and earned a songwriting publishing deal.
- 3/11/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
The Monkees’ creator said Davy Jones was perhaps the biggest rock star of the 1960s.He explained why Jones was part of The Monkees.Jones only released one solo single that charted on the Billboard Hot 100. The Monkees’ Davy Jones | Express / Stringer
The Monkees‘ co-creator, Bob Rafelson, said Davy Jones might’ve been the most famous rock star of the 1960s. He was worried Jones might be wrong for The Monkees’ show. Subsequently, he changed his mind.
The Monkees’ co-creator explained why Davy Jones made the cut
Rafelson co-created The Monkees with Bert Schneider. Rafelson discussed Jones in a 2012 Los Angeles Times interview following the singer’s death. “Davy Jones deserves a lot of credit, let me tell you,” Rafelson said. “He may not have lived as long as we wanted him to, but he survived about seven lifetimes, including being perhaps the biggest rock star of his time.
The Monkees’ creator said Davy Jones was perhaps the biggest rock star of the 1960s.He explained why Jones was part of The Monkees.Jones only released one solo single that charted on the Billboard Hot 100. The Monkees’ Davy Jones | Express / Stringer
The Monkees‘ co-creator, Bob Rafelson, said Davy Jones might’ve been the most famous rock star of the 1960s. He was worried Jones might be wrong for The Monkees’ show. Subsequently, he changed his mind.
The Monkees’ co-creator explained why Davy Jones made the cut
Rafelson co-created The Monkees with Bert Schneider. Rafelson discussed Jones in a 2012 Los Angeles Times interview following the singer’s death. “Davy Jones deserves a lot of credit, let me tell you,” Rafelson said. “He may not have lived as long as we wanted him to, but he survived about seven lifetimes, including being perhaps the biggest rock star of his time.
- 2/17/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Click here to read the full article.
Charles Koppelman, former music executive and Martha Stewart chairman, died on Friday. He was 82. A cause of death was not given at the time.
His son, showrunner Brian Koppelman, announced the loss on his social media, saying, “I’ll write more about my dad, Charles Koppelman, when I can. But the only thing that matters is how much I loved him. And how much he taught me about every single thing that matters.”
The Billions co-creator continued, “He lived exactly the life he wanted to live. And he spent his last days surrounded by those he loved the most. Pop, thank you.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brian Koppelman (@briankoppelman)
Koppelman began his career in entertainment as a member of musical trio The Ivy Three, which had a Top 10 hit in 1960 called “Yogi.” Shortly after, the singer and his bandmate,...
Charles Koppelman, former music executive and Martha Stewart chairman, died on Friday. He was 82. A cause of death was not given at the time.
His son, showrunner Brian Koppelman, announced the loss on his social media, saying, “I’ll write more about my dad, Charles Koppelman, when I can. But the only thing that matters is how much I loved him. And how much he taught me about every single thing that matters.”
The Billions co-creator continued, “He lived exactly the life he wanted to live. And he spent his last days surrounded by those he loved the most. Pop, thank you.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brian Koppelman (@briankoppelman)
Koppelman began his career in entertainment as a member of musical trio The Ivy Three, which had a Top 10 hit in 1960 called “Yogi.” Shortly after, the singer and his bandmate,...
- 11/26/2022
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Charles Koppelman, whose publishing and talent development vision made him one of the recording industry’s top executives, has died at 82.
No cause was given by his son, Brian, showrunner of Billions, and daughter Jenny Koppelman Hutt. “He spent his last days surrounded by those he loved the most,” his son wrote on social media.
Koppelman saw the potential of music publishing early in his career.
He began his career as a singer and songwriter, part of the legendary Aldon Music staff under CEO Don Kirshner that included Carole King, Neil Sedaka, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.
He moved on to CBS Records in the 1970s, rising to VP/Gm of worldwide publishing. He saw the potential of owning songwriter rights and formed his own company with CBS executive Martin Bandier and Bandier’s father in law, NY real estate king Samuel LeFrak. The company managed song catalogs for Barbra Streisnd,...
No cause was given by his son, Brian, showrunner of Billions, and daughter Jenny Koppelman Hutt. “He spent his last days surrounded by those he loved the most,” his son wrote on social media.
Koppelman saw the potential of music publishing early in his career.
He began his career as a singer and songwriter, part of the legendary Aldon Music staff under CEO Don Kirshner that included Carole King, Neil Sedaka, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.
He moved on to CBS Records in the 1970s, rising to VP/Gm of worldwide publishing. He saw the potential of owning songwriter rights and formed his own company with CBS executive Martin Bandier and Bandier’s father in law, NY real estate king Samuel LeFrak. The company managed song catalogs for Barbra Streisnd,...
- 11/26/2022
- by The Deadline Team
- Deadline Film + TV
Brooks Arthur, the Grammy-winning record producer, engineer and music supervisor behind films such as “The Karate Kid,” died on Oct. 9. He was 86.
Arthur was a highly respected producer who engineered hits such as Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” and Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” on which he sang backup. He reached the high point of his producing career with Janis Ian’s Grammy-winning 1975 debut album “Between the Lines,” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard album chart.
Throughout his career, Arthur worked with artists including the Grateful Dead, Art Garfunkel, Burt Bacharach, Dusty Springfield, Liza Minnelli and Peggy Lee, and he gathered 20 Grammy nominations — including three wins — as well as an Oscar nod for “Glory of Love” from “The Karate Kid II.”
Arthur began a 29-year relationship with Adam Sandler after producing his Grammy-nominated comedy hit “The Chanukah Song.” He went on to produce all of Sandler’s comedy albums...
Arthur was a highly respected producer who engineered hits such as Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” and Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” on which he sang backup. He reached the high point of his producing career with Janis Ian’s Grammy-winning 1975 debut album “Between the Lines,” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard album chart.
Throughout his career, Arthur worked with artists including the Grateful Dead, Art Garfunkel, Burt Bacharach, Dusty Springfield, Liza Minnelli and Peggy Lee, and he gathered 20 Grammy nominations — including three wins — as well as an Oscar nod for “Glory of Love” from “The Karate Kid II.”
Arthur began a 29-year relationship with Adam Sandler after producing his Grammy-nominated comedy hit “The Chanukah Song.” He went on to produce all of Sandler’s comedy albums...
- 10/11/2022
- by Ethan Shanfeld and Roy Trakin
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Bob Rafelson, the writer, director, producer and maverick who set the tone for the swinging, psychedelic 1960s with The Monkees, then was a pioneer in one of the most influential eras in the history of independent film, has died. He was 89.
Rafelson, who collaborated with Jack Nicholson on seven features, including the classics Easy Rider (1969), Five Easy Pieces (1970) and The King of Marvin Gardens (1972), died Saturday night of natural causes at his home in Aspen, Colorado, his wife, Gabrielle, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Rafelson earned Oscar nominations for co-writing and producing Five Easy Pieces and then, for an encore, produced Peter Bogdanovich‘s breakthrough hit, The Last Picture Show (1971).
Along with his late partner Bert Schneider, Rafelson created The Monkees, the touchstone NBC show that debuted in 1966. He conceived the idea of a program that mimicked the exuberance of The Beatles, specifically the...
Bob Rafelson, the writer, director, producer and maverick who set the tone for the swinging, psychedelic 1960s with The Monkees, then was a pioneer in one of the most influential eras in the history of independent film, has died. He was 89.
Rafelson, who collaborated with Jack Nicholson on seven features, including the classics Easy Rider (1969), Five Easy Pieces (1970) and The King of Marvin Gardens (1972), died Saturday night of natural causes at his home in Aspen, Colorado, his wife, Gabrielle, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Rafelson earned Oscar nominations for co-writing and producing Five Easy Pieces and then, for an encore, produced Peter Bogdanovich‘s breakthrough hit, The Last Picture Show (1971).
Along with his late partner Bert Schneider, Rafelson created The Monkees, the touchstone NBC show that debuted in 1966. He conceived the idea of a program that mimicked the exuberance of The Beatles, specifically the...
- 7/24/2022
- by Chris Koseluk
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It doesn’t matter how pure a sound is when it catches the ear’s attention, someone in the music industry will find a way to infect it. Pop music is infectious by design, and Netflix’s This Is Pop, reveals the delivery system. The eight-part docuseries focuses on some of the less unexamined moments of the most scrutinized genre in music. It is as depressing as it is exhilarating, and it barely skips a beat.
Much like the recent Apple TV+ series 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything, This is Pop shows how pop music reflects and influences culture. Music has always been a great unifier, both for listeners and musicians. Regardless of race, faith, or sexual preference, everyone has a favorite song, and people are drawn to the art of music from every background. What starts as a neighborhood sound moves beyond the streets, and for every Boyz II Men,...
Much like the recent Apple TV+ series 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything, This is Pop shows how pop music reflects and influences culture. Music has always been a great unifier, both for listeners and musicians. Regardless of race, faith, or sexual preference, everyone has a favorite song, and people are drawn to the art of music from every background. What starts as a neighborhood sound moves beyond the streets, and for every Boyz II Men,...
- 6/22/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Shania Twain, Chuck D, Abba’s Benny Andersson, T-Pain, Brandi Carlile, Boyz II Men, and more artists, producers, and songwriters delve into the historical resonance of pop music in Banger Films’ This Is Pop. The eight-part docuseries hits Netflix on June 22nd.
Each episode explores pop music beyond its musical aspects, examining its societal impact as well. Racism, sexism, classism, queer politics, and social injustice are addressed, according to a statement.
Episodes are grouped by style, era, and/or genre. The Boyz II Men Effect features Boyz II Men’s Nate Morris,...
Each episode explores pop music beyond its musical aspects, examining its societal impact as well. Racism, sexism, classism, queer politics, and social injustice are addressed, according to a statement.
Episodes are grouped by style, era, and/or genre. The Boyz II Men Effect features Boyz II Men’s Nate Morris,...
- 5/19/2021
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
This week, a very old recording industry tradition took center stage. We’re talking, of course, about the answer song.
Answer records are songs that “answer” a previous recording by a different artist, sometimes directly addressing a specific incident, other times playing off its themes. The novelty has been around for decades, crossing over from blues to R&b to country to hip-hop, and often is an answer by one gender to another.
The trick originally was designed to capture the sales momentum of the original song. Rarely has it achieved equal success, but certainly gave fans and the industry something to latch onto in the wake of a hit.
For example, the 1963 song by Andrea Carroll, It Hurts To Be Sixteen, was the answer record to Neil Sedaka’s Happy Birthday, Sweet Sixteen. In this case, sales-savvy Sedaka wrote the melody to both, using different lyricists to convey the differing perspectives.
Answer records are songs that “answer” a previous recording by a different artist, sometimes directly addressing a specific incident, other times playing off its themes. The novelty has been around for decades, crossing over from blues to R&b to country to hip-hop, and often is an answer by one gender to another.
The trick originally was designed to capture the sales momentum of the original song. Rarely has it achieved equal success, but certainly gave fans and the industry something to latch onto in the wake of a hit.
For example, the 1963 song by Andrea Carroll, It Hurts To Be Sixteen, was the answer record to Neil Sedaka’s Happy Birthday, Sweet Sixteen. In this case, sales-savvy Sedaka wrote the melody to both, using different lyricists to convey the differing perspectives.
- 1/23/2021
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: Do not read ahead if you have not watched Season 4, Episode 9 of “The Masked Singer,” which aired Nov. 26 on Fox.
Paul Anka is thankful for his time on “The Masked Singer,” even though he was the latest celebrity to be revealed on the hit competition series. On a special Thanksgiving airing, Anka was unmasked as the Broccoli. (Scroll down to watch Anka’s reveal from the episode.)
Anka said “The Masked Singer” was the perfect way for him to perform during the Covid-19 pandemic, and also take a break from recording his latest album, which he’s currently producing for release next year.
“I was really locked in a studio and with Covid-19, not socializing or getting out, obviously,” Anka told Variety. “Once I talked to my son and my girlfriend and then some people in my staff I said, yeah I got to get out of here...
Paul Anka is thankful for his time on “The Masked Singer,” even though he was the latest celebrity to be revealed on the hit competition series. On a special Thanksgiving airing, Anka was unmasked as the Broccoli. (Scroll down to watch Anka’s reveal from the episode.)
Anka said “The Masked Singer” was the perfect way for him to perform during the Covid-19 pandemic, and also take a break from recording his latest album, which he’s currently producing for release next year.
“I was really locked in a studio and with Covid-19, not socializing or getting out, obviously,” Anka told Variety. “Once I talked to my son and my girlfriend and then some people in my staff I said, yeah I got to get out of here...
- 11/27/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Today's Horror Highlights includes details on the virtual edition of the Chattanooga Film Festival, the trailer for Painter, details on Joe Bob's Haunted Drive-In, and the trailer for Blind!
Chattanooga Film Festival Announces its Virtual Edition: "This year marks the 10th edition of the Frightening Ass Film Fest (Faff); the Chattanooga Film Festival’s seasonal festival held in and around Halloween. Slated for October 30 and October 31, Faff will be an exciting mix of short films, new indie features, and carefully curated cult classics. Organizers are also putting together a series of live events, similar to the events that made Cff’s virtual edition in May an interactive fan-friendly experience.
Faff All Access Badges are available now for the price of $25 with individual tickets for certain films being made available closer to the event. Attendees will be able to access all films beginning 12:00am Est October 30, and access ends 6:...
Chattanooga Film Festival Announces its Virtual Edition: "This year marks the 10th edition of the Frightening Ass Film Fest (Faff); the Chattanooga Film Festival’s seasonal festival held in and around Halloween. Slated for October 30 and October 31, Faff will be an exciting mix of short films, new indie features, and carefully curated cult classics. Organizers are also putting together a series of live events, similar to the events that made Cff’s virtual edition in May an interactive fan-friendly experience.
Faff All Access Badges are available now for the price of $25 with individual tickets for certain films being made available closer to the event. Attendees will be able to access all films beginning 12:00am Est October 30, and access ends 6:...
- 10/15/2020
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Al Kasha, the Academy Award-winning composer who, along with songwriting partner Joel Hirschhorn, won Oscars for the soft rock disaster movie classics “The Morning After” and “We May Never Love Like This Again,” died Tuesday in Los Angeles. He was 83.
His death was announced by spokesperson Deborah Radel. A cause of death was not disclosed.
Dominating music charts – and Oscar’s Best Original Song category – in 1973 with “The Morning After,” from The Poseidon Adventure, and again in ’75 with “We May Never Love Like This Again” from The Towering Inferno, Kasha and Hirschhorn returned to film songwriting with 1977’s Disney classic Pete’s Dragon. The duo was Oscar-nominated for that song score and the song “Candle On The Water,” sung by Pete’s Dragon star Helen Reddy.
For his Broadway stage work, Kasha received Tony Award nominations for the scores of 1981’s Copperfield and 1982’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
Both Broadway productions were short-lived,...
His death was announced by spokesperson Deborah Radel. A cause of death was not disclosed.
Dominating music charts – and Oscar’s Best Original Song category – in 1973 with “The Morning After,” from The Poseidon Adventure, and again in ’75 with “We May Never Love Like This Again” from The Towering Inferno, Kasha and Hirschhorn returned to film songwriting with 1977’s Disney classic Pete’s Dragon. The duo was Oscar-nominated for that song score and the song “Candle On The Water,” sung by Pete’s Dragon star Helen Reddy.
For his Broadway stage work, Kasha received Tony Award nominations for the scores of 1981’s Copperfield and 1982’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
Both Broadway productions were short-lived,...
- 9/15/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
The 1970s were a pivotal period in both American and global pop culture. It was the decade that witnessed the birth of the “American New Wave,” with helmers including Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola establishing a new filmmaking vernacular and making their indelible marks on cinematic history.
In India, Bollywood was producing such wildly popular films as “Sholay.” It was the year “Jaws” put great white sharks on the big screen while also unleashing the era of the summer blockbuster. The iconic, surrealistic comedy “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” graced theaters, directed by first-time feature helmers Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones. The “soft sounds” of 1975 were evident in the string of mellow and groovy Yacht Rock chart-toppers, from the Captain & Tennille’s “Love Will Keep Us Together,” which earned the Grammy for record of the year, to Neil Sedaka’s “Laughter in the Rain.” Other easy listening tunes...
In India, Bollywood was producing such wildly popular films as “Sholay.” It was the year “Jaws” put great white sharks on the big screen while also unleashing the era of the summer blockbuster. The iconic, surrealistic comedy “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” graced theaters, directed by first-time feature helmers Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones. The “soft sounds” of 1975 were evident in the string of mellow and groovy Yacht Rock chart-toppers, from the Captain & Tennille’s “Love Will Keep Us Together,” which earned the Grammy for record of the year, to Neil Sedaka’s “Laughter in the Rain.” Other easy listening tunes...
- 7/10/2020
- by Malina Saval
- Variety Film + TV
Welcome to this week’s review of Nxt UK, right here on Nerdly. I’m Nathan Favel and we have Donny Osmond singing like a girl. Donny Osmond and Wayne Newton…they sound like the Pointer Sisters on helium. Anyway, A-Kid debuts here, so let’s make sure he’s got a hall pass. There’s no screwing around during school hours, damn it! Get to class, you little bastards! Nxt UK starts…some place else. This is just a review. We can’t afford a broadcast of a WWE show.
Match #1: Rhea Ripley & Piper Niven def. Jinny & Jazzy Gabert The following is courtesy of wwe.com:
Several weeks ago, Rhea Ripley shocked the WWE Universe when she came to the aid of her adversary Piper Niven against Jazzy Gabert and a meddling Jinny. As a result, they formed an unlikely alliance to battle their common enemies. Although Jinny...
Match #1: Rhea Ripley & Piper Niven def. Jinny & Jazzy Gabert The following is courtesy of wwe.com:
Several weeks ago, Rhea Ripley shocked the WWE Universe when she came to the aid of her adversary Piper Niven against Jazzy Gabert and a meddling Jinny. As a result, they formed an unlikely alliance to battle their common enemies. Although Jinny...
- 11/1/2019
- by Nathan Favel
- Nerdly
Unlike many teen shows of its era, Beverly Hills 90210 never had an episode where the gang formed a band. But in the critical second-season episode Wildfire that introduced the agent of chaos known as Emily Valentine, there was a talent show in which the power trio of Brenda Walsh, Kelly Taylor, and Donna Martin dressed up like Robert Palmer’s video backup singers to perform Neil Sedaka’s 1962 hit “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do.” The whole thing is even weirder than it sounds, but you can see the video right here.
- 8/8/2019
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
Warning: The following contains massive spoilers for Tuesday’s Animal Kingdom. If you’d rather be surprised when you watch, look away — fast!
Neil Sedaka wasn’t kidding when he sang “Breakin’ Up Is Hard to Do.” In Tuesday’s Animal Kingdom, J and Mia’s volcanic split erupts in a round of tit for tat that doesn’t end until one of them no longer has a pulse. You can probably guess which — or (hint, hint) Morgan could tell you, were she still breathing. But read on, anyway. How it — and this sociopath — went down is some of the...
Neil Sedaka wasn’t kidding when he sang “Breakin’ Up Is Hard to Do.” In Tuesday’s Animal Kingdom, J and Mia’s volcanic split erupts in a round of tit for tat that doesn’t end until one of them no longer has a pulse. You can probably guess which — or (hint, hint) Morgan could tell you, were she still breathing. But read on, anyway. How it — and this sociopath — went down is some of the...
- 7/17/2019
- TVLine.com
Daryl Dragon, the keyboard-playing “Captain” of Seventies hitmakers Captain and Tennille, died at a hospice in Prescott, Arizona on Wednesday. Associated Press reports the cause of death as renal failure. He was 76.
As Captain and Tennille, Dragon and his then-wife Toni Tennille scored a string of catchy, easy-rolling hits in the mid-Seventies, including the Grammy-winning, Number One hit “Love Will Keep Us Together,” “The Way I Want to Touch You,” “Lonely Night (Angel Face)” and “Muskrat Love.” Dragon was known for wearing a captain’s hat and playing multilevel keyboards,...
As Captain and Tennille, Dragon and his then-wife Toni Tennille scored a string of catchy, easy-rolling hits in the mid-Seventies, including the Grammy-winning, Number One hit “Love Will Keep Us Together,” “The Way I Want to Touch You,” “Lonely Night (Angel Face)” and “Muskrat Love.” Dragon was known for wearing a captain’s hat and playing multilevel keyboards,...
- 1/3/2019
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
Elton John kicked off his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour this week with a spectacular show packed with hits from his long career. Nearly every blockbuster song from his catalog was in the set, including “The Bitch Is Back,” “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “Your Song” and “I’m Still Standing.” But there was one big song from his Seventies heyday that didn’t make the cut. It was all over the radio in 1975 and even hit Number One on the Hot...
- 9/11/2018
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
Anyone who saw singer Mandy Barnett playing the title role in Always… Patsy Cline or heard her splendid 2013 tribute LP to singer-songwriter Don Gibson is already aware of Barnett’s ability to deliver polished Nashville Sound classics with panache. The Tennessee native, who grazed the country charts in the late Nineties with Americana-ready material when that movement was in its infancy, earned considerable praise for her vocal range and should be well-positioned to do the same with regard to the breadth of material on her forthcoming album.
Barnett will end...
Barnett will end...
- 7/19/2018
- by Stephen L. Betts
- Rollingstone.com
After announcing his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Neil Diamond and his wife Katie are overwhelmed by the fan support.
The music legend, responsible for hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “America” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” shared a statement on his website Monday evening revealing that he canceled concert dates in Australia and New Zealand based on doctor’s advice.
“Wow, I’ve received a bunch of messages from people in Aus & Nz who are donating their ticket refunds to good causes: Parkinson’s research, animal rescue groups, fire victim funds, etc,” Katie, 46, tweeted on Tuesday.
“My heart is so full of joy to see this silver lining.
The music legend, responsible for hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “America” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” shared a statement on his website Monday evening revealing that he canceled concert dates in Australia and New Zealand based on doctor’s advice.
“Wow, I’ve received a bunch of messages from people in Aus & Nz who are donating their ticket refunds to good causes: Parkinson’s research, animal rescue groups, fire victim funds, etc,” Katie, 46, tweeted on Tuesday.
“My heart is so full of joy to see this silver lining.
- 1/24/2018
- by Karen Mizoguchi
- PEOPLE.com
The entertainment world is reeling from the news of Neil Diamond’s retirement from live performance following his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease. The music legend, responsible for hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “America” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” shared a message to his website Monday night announcing the cancellation of concert dates in Australia and New Zealand, where he had been scheduled to play as part of his 50th anniversary world tour in March.
The statement explained that the onset of the Parkinson’s has “made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis but will allow Mr. Diamond to continue his writing,...
The statement explained that the onset of the Parkinson’s has “made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis but will allow Mr. Diamond to continue his writing,...
- 1/23/2018
- by Jordan Runtagh
- PEOPLE.com
Caroline Preece Oct 25, 2017
The Big Bang Theory's latest episode proved once again how charming this cast can be...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Red Dwarf Xii episode 3 review: Timewave Red Dwarf Xii episode 2 review: Siliconia Red Dwarf Xii episode 1 review: Cured
11.5 The Collaboration Contamination
When all else fails on The Big Bang Theory, the writers seem to fall back on a shakeup of dynamics. They did the the arc where Sheldon and Raj teamed up at work, and the awkward hilarity of the scavenger hunt pairings a couple of years back, and now it appears we’ll be allowed to enjoy a new friendship between Howard and Amy.
Well calling it ‘new’ is a bit of a stretch, but then nothing is exactly new or fresh on a show that’s been running for more than a decade. At this stage, most viewers are happy to settle for...
The Big Bang Theory's latest episode proved once again how charming this cast can be...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Red Dwarf Xii episode 3 review: Timewave Red Dwarf Xii episode 2 review: Siliconia Red Dwarf Xii episode 1 review: Cured
11.5 The Collaboration Contamination
When all else fails on The Big Bang Theory, the writers seem to fall back on a shakeup of dynamics. They did the the arc where Sheldon and Raj teamed up at work, and the awkward hilarity of the scavenger hunt pairings a couple of years back, and now it appears we’ll be allowed to enjoy a new friendship between Howard and Amy.
Well calling it ‘new’ is a bit of a stretch, but then nothing is exactly new or fresh on a show that’s been running for more than a decade. At this stage, most viewers are happy to settle for...
- 10/25/2017
- Den of Geek
Little Kids Rock, the national nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives by restoring, expanding, and innovating music education in public schools, has announced more stars will be among the special guests who will take the stage at their annual benefit.
The organization has announced actor and comedian Mike Myers; award winner Darlene Love; Grammy nominated soul singer Bettye Lavette; Grammy winning blues musician Keb’ Mo’; Musical Director Will Lee; and past honorees Paul Shaffer, band leader and musical director for the Late Show with David Letterman; and famed Yankee and Latin Grammy nominee Bernie Williams will take part in the event.
This year’s event, which will honor Elvis Costello, Bonnie Raitt and Michael Dorf, will take place on Wednesday, October 18th at PlayStation Theater in New York.
The Little Kids Rock Benefit brings together artists and individuals who are passionate about giving the transformational gift of music to children in public schools across the Us.
The organization has announced actor and comedian Mike Myers; award winner Darlene Love; Grammy nominated soul singer Bettye Lavette; Grammy winning blues musician Keb’ Mo’; Musical Director Will Lee; and past honorees Paul Shaffer, band leader and musical director for the Late Show with David Letterman; and famed Yankee and Latin Grammy nominee Bernie Williams will take part in the event.
This year’s event, which will honor Elvis Costello, Bonnie Raitt and Michael Dorf, will take place on Wednesday, October 18th at PlayStation Theater in New York.
The Little Kids Rock Benefit brings together artists and individuals who are passionate about giving the transformational gift of music to children in public schools across the Us.
- 10/2/2017
- Look to the Stars
Little Kids Rock, the national nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives by restoring, expanding, and innovating music education in public schools announced the honorees for its annual benefit being held Wednesday, October 18th at PlayStation Theater in New York.
This year’s event will honor Elvis Costello with the Rocker of the Year Award, and Bonnie Raitt with the Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, Founder and CEO of City Winery, Michael Dorf will be honored for his extensive philanthropic work, including efforts on behalf of expanding music education for underprivileged youth through the annually produced “Music of” tribute concerts.
The Annual Little Kids Rock Benefit, produced by Mark Krantz and Michael Matuza brings together artists and individuals who are passionate about bringing the transformational gift of music to children in public schools across the Us. Prior years’ honorees include Smokey Robinson, Steve Miller, Steven Van Zandt, Lady Gaga, Graham Nash and Joan Jett.
This year’s event will honor Elvis Costello with the Rocker of the Year Award, and Bonnie Raitt with the Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, Founder and CEO of City Winery, Michael Dorf will be honored for his extensive philanthropic work, including efforts on behalf of expanding music education for underprivileged youth through the annually produced “Music of” tribute concerts.
The Annual Little Kids Rock Benefit, produced by Mark Krantz and Michael Matuza brings together artists and individuals who are passionate about bringing the transformational gift of music to children in public schools across the Us. Prior years’ honorees include Smokey Robinson, Steve Miller, Steven Van Zandt, Lady Gaga, Graham Nash and Joan Jett.
- 8/16/2017
- Look to the Stars
Heading for Spring Break somewhere? Long before Girls Gone Wild, kids of the Kennedy years found their own paths to the desired fun in the sun, and most of them came back alive. MGM’s comedic look at the Ft. Lauderdale exodus is a half-corny but fully endearing show, featuring the great Dolores Hart and the debuts of Connie Francis, Paula Prentiss and Jim Hutton.
Where the Boys Are
Blu-ray
Warner Archive Collection
1960 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 99 min. / Street Date July 25, 2017 / available through the WBshop / 21.99
Starring: Connie Francis, Dolores Hart, Paula Prentiss, Jim Hutton
Yvette Mimieux, George Hamilton, Frank Gorshin, Barbara Nichols, Chill Wills.
Cinematography: Robert Bronner
Art Direction: Preston Ames, George W. Davis
Film Editor: Fredric Steinkamp
Original Music: Pete Rugolo, Neil Sedaka, George Stoll, Victor Young
Written by George Wells from a novel by Glendon Swarthout
Produced by Joe Pasternak
Directed by Henry Levin
Ah yes, in 1960 first-wave Rock...
Where the Boys Are
Blu-ray
Warner Archive Collection
1960 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 99 min. / Street Date July 25, 2017 / available through the WBshop / 21.99
Starring: Connie Francis, Dolores Hart, Paula Prentiss, Jim Hutton
Yvette Mimieux, George Hamilton, Frank Gorshin, Barbara Nichols, Chill Wills.
Cinematography: Robert Bronner
Art Direction: Preston Ames, George W. Davis
Film Editor: Fredric Steinkamp
Original Music: Pete Rugolo, Neil Sedaka, George Stoll, Victor Young
Written by George Wells from a novel by Glendon Swarthout
Produced by Joe Pasternak
Directed by Henry Levin
Ah yes, in 1960 first-wave Rock...
- 7/26/2017
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
With February 12th swiftly approaching, Milan Records have finally unveiled the full track list for the upcoming original motion picture soundtrack for 20th Century Fox's R-rated superhero extravaganza Deadpool, which stars Ryan Reynolds (Mississippi Grind) as the titular hero with Morena Baccarin (Gotham), T.J. Miller (Silicon Valley), Ed Skrein (The Transporter Refueled), Gina Carano (Fast & Furious 6), Brianna Hildebrand (First Girl I Loved), Stefan Kapicic (Big Miracle), and Leslie Uggams (Nurse Jackie) rounding out his supporting cast. The score features original compositions from Tom Holkenborg a.k.a. Junkie Xl, who recently received acclaim for his amazing work on George Miller's Mad Max: Fury Road and who is also scoring Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice. As for the rest of the soundtrack, well, it should be interesting to say the least... A few of the artists featured are Dmx, Salt-n-Pepa, Neil Sedaka, Juice Newton, and Wham!
- 1/19/2016
- ComicBookMovie.com
Racing into cinemas next powered by attitude, f-bombs, and a good dose of violence, "Deadpool" is hoping to be the antidote to basically everything you're going to see on CW tonight. Aiming to deliver the unexpected at every turn, the soundtrack to the comic book movie is no different. Read More: Graphic Violence Will Keep 'Deadpool' Out Of Chinese Cinemas Junkie Xl ("Mad Max: Fury Road") has scored the movie, but it's the song choices that stand out. Yep, you'll hear Dmx's "X Gon’ Give It To Ya" which has been in every piece of marketing so far, along with tracks from Salt-n-Pepa, Neil Sedaka, and uh, Wham! And listed as the last, it suggests that "Careless Whisper" will be the last song of the movie. Interesting.... "Deadpool" will be released digitally the same day as the movie on February 12th, with physical copies arriving on March 4th.
- 1/19/2016
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
Drug Cabin is part of the wave that has softly landed on the shores of the Los Angeles indie scene that echoes the 1970s singer-songwriter artists and soft rock bands like Steely Dan, Chicago, Todd Rundgren, and Neil Sedaka. Drug Cabin’s third release, “Wiggle Room”, is teeming with mellow grooves and clean guitar chords on all 12 tracks. It is essentially a release of an additional 12 songs Nathan Thelen of Pretty Girls Make Graves and Moonrats and Marcus Congleton of Ambulance Ltd. wrote and recorded with Brandon Owens on bass, Sheridan Reily on drums, and Frankie Palmer on pedal […]...
- 4/9/2015
- by Anthony Augello
- Monsters and Critics
Here we thought that love would keep them together. But Daryl Dragon and Cathryn "Toni" Tennille, the couple better known as singing duo Captain & Tennille, are getting a divorce after more than 39 years of marriage. Tennille filed for divorce on Jan. 16 in Prescott, Ariz., according to Rumorfix, which was first to report the sad split news. She and Dragon do not have any children. The pair married in November 1974 and released their debut album, Love Will Keep Us Together, featuring their hit title cover of the Neil Sedaka tune, the following year. "Love Will Keep Us Together" stayed atop the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart for nine weeks and won the Grammy for...
- 1/23/2014
- E! Online
Say it ain't so ... there's no Muskrat Love left for Captain & Tennille ... they're getting divorced ... and the Captain tells TMZ he didn't see it coming.Toni (Tennille) filed legal docs in Arizona, claiming the marriage was "irretrievably broken." They've been married for 39 years.If you don't know ... you should. They had a string of hits in the 70s, including "Love Will Keep Us Together," "Muskrat Love" and "Do that to Me One More Time."They...
- 1/22/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Hugh Jackman had one heck of a 45th birthday party. The Wolverine actor invited 4,500 guests to celebrate the occasion, but there was a caveat—admittance didn't come cheap. The Aussie sang, danced and made people laugh at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 12, where his One Night Only act raised $1.85 million for the Motion Picture & Television Fund. Backed by a 17-member orchestra, Jackman performed a modified version of his recent Broadway show. Famous attendees included actors Tom Cruise, Olivia Munn, Terrence Howard, Kristin Davis, Darren Criss and Maria Bello; musicians Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds and Neil Sedaka; fashion designers Diane von Furstenberg and Michael Kors; and professional...
- 10/14/2013
- E! Online
There've been complaints that last night's American Idol, themed around the hits and performances of past Idol winners, was old-fashioned and schmaltzy. Hey, morons: That's why I watchAmerican Idol. I want ancient, Wayne Newton-y performances from Mormon teenagers in pain. I want the new Rosemary Clooney to woo me in a collared denim dress that her great-grandmother weaved. I want singers who pick songs by Kenny Rogers or Alannah Myles to feel "naughty." Bring me the home-schooled!
I loved last night's episode, even when truly awful songs like Ruben Studdard's "Flying Without Wings" threatened to curbstomp us with hopelessness. For me, ranking the top 10 was a cinch -- though apparently I disagree with most of you about how interesting Angela Miller is. Guys, her emotions range from "happy" to "happy, but quiet sometimes." Come on.
One last note before I write another 200 words about Lazaro Arbos that amount to "Good try,...
I loved last night's episode, even when truly awful songs like Ruben Studdard's "Flying Without Wings" threatened to curbstomp us with hopelessness. For me, ranking the top 10 was a cinch -- though apparently I disagree with most of you about how interesting Angela Miller is. Guys, her emotions range from "happy" to "happy, but quiet sometimes." Come on.
One last note before I write another 200 words about Lazaro Arbos that amount to "Good try,...
- 3/14/2013
- by virtel
- The Backlot
To think the world’s only jellyfish man movie would have been lost to the annals of time had it not been rescued from obscurity by Something Weird Video. And if you think a jellyfish man is something weird, then just wait until you hear Neil Sedaka’s theme song, “Do the Jellyfish.”
From 1966 comes Sting of Death, South Florida b-movie maestro William Grefe’s outrageous Creature from the Black Lagoon Everglades-style about an uptight scientist and partying teens being terrorized by a half-man/half-jellyfish.
To be more specific, the monster is a were-jellyfish!
The bullied Igor-like assistant to a swamp scientist in love with his boss’ daughter develops a means by which to transform himself into a jellyfish man - that looks suspiciously like a decorated wetsuit with an inflated plastic bag mask - by dunking his head in a computerized fish tank. Trust me; it doesn’t make...
From 1966 comes Sting of Death, South Florida b-movie maestro William Grefe’s outrageous Creature from the Black Lagoon Everglades-style about an uptight scientist and partying teens being terrorized by a half-man/half-jellyfish.
To be more specific, the monster is a were-jellyfish!
The bullied Igor-like assistant to a swamp scientist in love with his boss’ daughter develops a means by which to transform himself into a jellyfish man - that looks suspiciously like a decorated wetsuit with an inflated plastic bag mask - by dunking his head in a computerized fish tank. Trust me; it doesn’t make...
- 2/9/2013
- by Foywonder
- DreadCentral.com
The National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene stages a tribute to the legendary singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka at The Town Hall, 123 West 43rd Street, on yesterday June 12 at 730pm. The gala concert, with performances by the Broadway actor and Israeli singer Dudu Fisher, Jay Black of Jay and the Americans, Klezmatics star Lorin Sklamberg, and the actor-singers Eleanor Reissa, Lori Wilner, Robert Abelson, Dani Marcus, and Rebecca Garfein, among many others, celebrated the wide-ranging impact of Yiddish culture on other popular cultures.Check out photos from the event below...
- 6/13/2012
- by Stephen Sorokoff
- BroadwayWorld.com
If you think Nigel Lythgoe has an easy job, consider this: Despite producing the No. 2 show of the 2011-2012 TV season in terms of total viewers and the coveted 18-49 demo, American Idol‘s executive producer is still in the unenviable position of defending the show’s ratings and creative direction in the face of public criticism from his own boss.
We caught up with Lythgoe prior to Idol‘s Season 11 finale to get his thoughts on how the season had played out, why female contestants can’t win seem to take home the top prize, what he thinks of his high-profile singing-show competitors,...
We caught up with Lythgoe prior to Idol‘s Season 11 finale to get his thoughts on how the season had played out, why female contestants can’t win seem to take home the top prize, what he thinks of his high-profile singing-show competitors,...
- 5/29/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
I've sailed through the eleventh season of American Idol and the second season of The Voice like a damn trooper. I've skewered them both for your entertainment. But now the time has come to pick the better show, and I'm using seven categories of criteria to reach a verdict. Idol is better in some regards while The Voice wins in others, but the overall results are in! Dim the lights and let's crown one singing competition king. We'll start the showdown with my favorite category: hosting.
1. Hosting: Carson Daly vs. Ryan Seacrest
Is there a reason why the hosts on talent competitions aren't discussed more? Frankly, they're the most critical element of the proceedings. Both The Voice and American Idol are uncontrolled blitzes of power ballads, lighting cues, and talky interludes, and it takes the finesse of a killer emcee to rein it all in. And if we're being honest,...
1. Hosting: Carson Daly vs. Ryan Seacrest
Is there a reason why the hosts on talent competitions aren't discussed more? Frankly, they're the most critical element of the proceedings. Both The Voice and American Idol are uncontrolled blitzes of power ballads, lighting cues, and talky interludes, and it takes the finesse of a killer emcee to rein it all in. And if we're being honest,...
- 4/30/2012
- by virtel
- The Backlot
In 1958, Don Kirshner was an unknown 23-year-old kid from the Bronx. Two years later, he was on his way to becoming one of America's most powerful and influential music producers. In five years, through his company Aldon Music, Kirshner launched Carole King, Neil Sedaka and Bobby Darin, among others, to superstardom and ushered in a new era of rock and roll.
"Those five years represented rock and roll's last gasp of innocence," writes Rich Podolsky in his recently published "Don Kirshner: The Man With The Golden Ear." "They were the last songs written before the Beatles changed the landscape of American music forever. They were great years for me and 60 million other baby boomers."
Kirshner went on to develop the Monkees and the cartoon band the Archies, whose "Sugar, Sugar" became a classic. In 1973, he produced and hosted "Don Kirshner's Rock Concert," a hugely popular live (not lip-synched) weekly TV...
"Those five years represented rock and roll's last gasp of innocence," writes Rich Podolsky in his recently published "Don Kirshner: The Man With The Golden Ear." "They were the last songs written before the Beatles changed the landscape of American music forever. They were great years for me and 60 million other baby boomers."
Kirshner went on to develop the Monkees and the cartoon band the Archies, whose "Sugar, Sugar" became a classic. In 1973, he produced and hosted "Don Kirshner's Rock Concert," a hugely popular live (not lip-synched) weekly TV...
- 4/13/2012
- by Debra Ollivier
- Aol TV.
After a bit of a hiatus, Clay Aiken is back.
The American Idol runner-up is releasing his seventh studio album Steadfast March 27th, which will feature selected cuts from 2010's release Tried and True, along with a newly recorded, original single, Bring Back My Love. The new album will also feature covers, including Neil Sedaka's Breaking Up is Hard to Do, and Connie Francis' Who's Sorry Now.
Pics: Out & Proud: 22 Proudly Gay Celebs
"These musical gems have stood the test of time, and I am incredibly proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to make them my own," Aiken says. "I stand by this recording 'steadfastly,' which is why I chose the title and how I feel about moving forward in my career in general – being focused and steadfast."
Aiken will also be back on television soon as a contestant on the new season of The Celebrity Apprentice, premiering February...
The American Idol runner-up is releasing his seventh studio album Steadfast March 27th, which will feature selected cuts from 2010's release Tried and True, along with a newly recorded, original single, Bring Back My Love. The new album will also feature covers, including Neil Sedaka's Breaking Up is Hard to Do, and Connie Francis' Who's Sorry Now.
Pics: Out & Proud: 22 Proudly Gay Celebs
"These musical gems have stood the test of time, and I am incredibly proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to make them my own," Aiken says. "I stand by this recording 'steadfastly,' which is why I chose the title and how I feel about moving forward in my career in general – being focused and steadfast."
Aiken will also be back on television soon as a contestant on the new season of The Celebrity Apprentice, premiering February...
- 2/9/2012
- TheInsider.com
Zap2it has been looking back at the best performances from each stage of the "American Idol" finals and now we're taking a gander at the Top 5. This week on "Idol," the contestants get the theme "Now and Then," having them sing something current and something from the 1960s.
But who are you favorites from the Top 5 phase of year's past? Vote below. As of this writing, you've voted Carrie Underwood's "Alone" as the best Top 11 performance, David Cook's "Billie Jean" as the best Top 10 performance and David Archuleta's "Smoky Mountain Memories" as the best Top 9 performance, Adam Lambert's "Mad World" as the best Top 8 performance, Archie's "When You Believe" is the best Top 7 performance and Clay Aiken's "I Could Not Ask for More" is the best Top 6 performance.
So who wins your vote for the best Top 5 performance?
Kelly Clarkson, "Walk on By," Burt Bacharach,...
But who are you favorites from the Top 5 phase of year's past? Vote below. As of this writing, you've voted Carrie Underwood's "Alone" as the best Top 11 performance, David Cook's "Billie Jean" as the best Top 10 performance and David Archuleta's "Smoky Mountain Memories" as the best Top 9 performance, Adam Lambert's "Mad World" as the best Top 8 performance, Archie's "When You Believe" is the best Top 7 performance and Clay Aiken's "I Could Not Ask for More" is the best Top 6 performance.
So who wins your vote for the best Top 5 performance?
Kelly Clarkson, "Walk on By," Burt Bacharach,...
- 5/4/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Anatomy of a Relationship
An Episodic Examination of Huddy in Love
“Fall From Grace” 7.17
First of all I’d like to thank you for waiting patiently for this post this week. If you didn’t read my last post I warned you I’d be on vacation this week. I had a great time. Thanks for asking. Now onto this week’s episode.
Hmmmmmmm. Uhhhhhhhhh. Weeeeeellllll. I’m not sure how to take this episode. You’ll remember in last week’s episode House went all loco in his pain for the loss of his true love. Hookers. Vicodin. Cannonballs. And it appears that he doesn’t quiiiiiiiite have all of that pain out of his system in this episode as his juvenile pranks around the office seem to escalate, rather unbelievably at times, in his attempt to make Cuddy feel guilty or use Cuddy’s guilt or… See, I don’t know.
An Episodic Examination of Huddy in Love
“Fall From Grace” 7.17
First of all I’d like to thank you for waiting patiently for this post this week. If you didn’t read my last post I warned you I’d be on vacation this week. I had a great time. Thanks for asking. Now onto this week’s episode.
Hmmmmmmm. Uhhhhhhhhh. Weeeeeellllll. I’m not sure how to take this episode. You’ll remember in last week’s episode House went all loco in his pain for the loss of his true love. Hookers. Vicodin. Cannonballs. And it appears that he doesn’t quiiiiiiiite have all of that pain out of his system in this episode as his juvenile pranks around the office seem to escalate, rather unbelievably at times, in his attempt to make Cuddy feel guilty or use Cuddy’s guilt or… See, I don’t know.
- 3/25/2011
- by Rachel
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.