ALICIA KEYS’ VIVACIOUS VIBE MAGAZINE COVER

The 14-time Grammy winner is reportedly hard at work at (what could very well be) her next award-winning, yet titled LP.  While Miss Beatz has long teased fans with news of her nearly completed follow-up to 2009′s ‘Element of Freedom’, everything else has been kept under tight lock.

Where we have seen Keys, however, is fronting many-a-social issue campaign.  From Africa to New York’s inner city youth, the songbird has spread her philanthropic wing to touch many causes and outlines them all in VIBE magazine’s forthcoming, 2nd annual ‘Global Issue’.

Set to hit newsstands on April 16th, fans looking for a taste of what the diva will be dishing on can click here for excerpts.

MDNA Surprise Party

Madonna reclaims her Billboard Throne

Pop icon Madonna has sold a respectable 359,000 copies of her new album ‘M.D.N.A.’ placing her at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart this week. After a near promo-less era and underwhelming material, who said the ol’ lady still doesn’t have it?

Madonna Inc.

Fashion lines, bestselling books, corporate tie-ins, branded gyms — the Material Girl knows how to survive in a material world. Tom Whipple reports on the business secrets of pop’s savviest star. LONDON — When Madonna’s latest single premiered in February it was, of course, big news on her official fan website. In a post headlined “Wow”, fan Selena said: “I feel so privileged to know Madonna in my lifetime.” Butch1977’s comment on the release was marginally more measured. “I’m awestruck,” he said.
Neither seemed to mind particularly, though, that the blog post they were responding to also boasted: “A key part of the album release included a first of its kind worldwide promotion by Clear Channel, a leading global media and entertainment company, which ... used extensive promotions to drive Madonna fans to iTunes.”
If you look back over the news releases on the site, you begin to notice several motifs. Whoever writes them is fond of starting sentences with “we are happy to announce...” and never forgets to send Madonna a birthday message (though always forgets to mention the singer’s age).

Rihanna Wants to Portray Whitney Houston...in her own world.

If the opportunity ever presented itself, Rihanna is hoping to make it known she would "love" the chance to play Whitney Houston in a biopic based on the singer's life.

Opening up to The Press Association, Rihanna, 24, discussed her attachment to the legendary vocalist, who died tragically on February 11 at the age of 48.

"My first song that I remember falling love with was a Whitney Houston song: 'I Will Always Love You,'" Rihanna shared. "It was really inspiring and it made me develop a passion for music, so really, she's partly responsible for me being here in this industry."

The "We Found Love" singer added she understands the type of commitment needed to undertake such a meaningful part.

"That would be something that I would have to give my entire life to do, because I would really want to pull it off," Rihanna told reporters. "That's a huge, huge role and whoever does it has to do a good job."

Rihanna is slated to make her big screen debut next month when Battleship (also starring Alexander Skarsgard and Brooklyn Decker) hits theaters.

Strike A Pose - 1989

Proof!  She always had those cheeks.

SNAPSHOTS: Rihanna

Wow! First time I’m getting serious Aaliyah vibes from Rihanna. Don’t hurt her Drake! Don’t hurt her!

Rihanna fully displayed her new look during an official ‘Battleship’ press conference in Japan, yesterday (April 2nd):

KATY PERRY’S “PART OF ME 3D” FILM TRAILER

Whitney Houston’s Final Film ‘Sparkle’ Releases A First Trailer

Back in January we got our first look at the first promo image released from the upcoming new film Sparkle, starring the late Whitney Houston and the formerAmerican Idol contestant Jordin Sparks. In February, shortly after Whitney‘s death, we learned that Sparkle was still on track for a theatrical release along with a soundtrack recording which contains the last music Houston ever recorded. Today we get our first look at the first movie trailer for the film. Click below to see Whitney in action in her final film/music project.

Aww … Whitney. This looks good, I suppose. It reminds me a bit of Dreamgirls, which is good. Honestly, this isn’t the type of movie that I would normally see but because it isWhitney‘s final project AND it was filmed in Detroit, MI … I’ll be there to see and support it. I love that Whitney‘s sass is featured in this trailer. It’s really very heartening to see her again. Sigh. I’m actually looking forward to seeing this film in theaters … just to share one last goodbye to Whitney Houston.

Album Review: Nicki Minaj – ‘Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded’

4/5  After whipping up a frenzy with her debut ‘Pink Friday’ in 2010, this week sees Nicki Minaj stake her claim as a formidable chart force with the arrival of her eagerly awaited sophomore set ’Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded‘.

A pick ‘n’ mix of genres, the project is split loosely in two; a musical melee, the set finds itself divided between songs rolled in Hip-Hop grit and others soaked in Pop fantasy.

Boasting a tracklist as polarised as the artist performing them, the question on the lips of many remains: beyond the wigs, schtick, and “eccentric”, does Nicki deliver on the most important release of her career?

In short, “yes”. However, it’s a response served with a potent side-course of “caution”.

Jennifer Lopez's ‘Dance Again’ vid

Love is blind… at least that’s what Jennifer Lopez is implying in her upcoming music visual. After the Bennifer fiasco, is it practical of J.Lo to mix business with pleasure again?

In the forthcoming visual for new single ‘Dance Again’, the hot mama flaunts not just her ridiculously toned physique, but her new toy boy squeeze Casper Smart. The couple engage in a steamy blindfold scene, while they show the world that their relationship is getting hotter by the minute. The clip is set to premiere (April 5th) on American Idol this coming Thursday.

You ready?

‘Dance Again’ is not the only single J.Lo has on the horizon. You saw photos of the singer on set shooting another music video for Wisin & Yandel‘s ‘Follow The Leader’. A visual which sees boyfriend Casper in the director’s seat.  Meanwhile, ‘Dance Again’ was released to iTunes today and you can download it here. As of now, the Pitbull-assisted song has entered into the 70s on the USA iTunes chart. Not bad.

Rihanna Confirms New Tour

Ever sat on your cat?
Well, the resulting sound is one akin to hearing Rihanna live.
And yet this hasn’t stopped the popular stage parader from confirming that she is planning a new tour.


Speaking to our friends over at Capital FM, the 24 year old said:

“Tour. We’re going to be going on tour next year. So this year we’re spending out time planning to make sure it’s bigger than anything we’ve done and something more impactful, maybe something different, so my fans can get excited about it.”

We can only hope she “impacts” a vocal coach pronto. Because as the millions ploughed into her past treks have shown, bright lights and new wigs will not ensure her albums “sell that sell”.

To date, Fenty’s latest set ‘Talk That Talk’ has yet to sell over 800k in the US – despite being released over 5 months ago.

Brandy looks FLAWLESS in new Photoshoot

 

Brandy "The Body" Norwood rocks her natural hair & EDGY high fashion style in a new photoshoot for YRB. 

Adele confirms she will release new music in 2012

Adele has told a French radio station she will have a new single out by the end of the year, but her next album will take "a good two years" to record.

The news will fuel speculation that the artist will record the theme tune to the latest Bond movie, Skyfall.

She has been the bookmakers' favourite since last year, but no official announcement has been made.

Speaking to France's NRJ, the singer added she needed to find time to write the follow-up to her hit record, 21.

"If I didn't write my own songs, I'd be out next week with a new album," she said.

"I have to take time and live a little bit. There were a good two years between my first and second albums, so it'll be the same this time."
Adele added that she was not worried about recreating the success of 21, which has now sold more than 20 million copies around the world.

Madonna + Smirnoff

 

Madonna + Smirnoff have collaborated to bring their fans a unique taste of her latest release MDNA.  The EXCLUSIVE MDNA “Nightlife” Edition Remix Album.

7 Great Tracks + 3 Remixes from MDNA + 4 Smirnoff EXCLUSIVE remixes.

This album is not available on iTunes or Amazon. Don’t miss out!

LIKE US on Facebook and download the Album!

Madonna Scores 12th UK #1 Album/Breaks New Record

She’s called the Queen for a reason.

Yes, while many would like to write Madonna off as the Margo to GaGa‘s Eve, it appears the former is just as popular today as she has ever been- despite the continuous age bias her cause suffers from.

Because, as of today, she has scored her 12th UK #1 album with ‘MDNA‘.  Now holding the record for having the most #1 albums as a soloist, the LP’s success follows the icon’s stint at Superbowl 2012 and the release of the controversial video, ‘Girl Gone Wild‘.  Beating David Guetta‘s ‘Nothing But The Beat’ to the top spot, the album is set to follow suit in the US with unexpectedly high first week sales predictions.

Deadmau5 Says Madonna Feud Is "Terrible!"

Sounds like if nothing else, he's embarrassed about the entire thing!

Deadmau5 recently criticized Madonna for promoting drug use at Miami's Ultra Music Festival when she referenced MDMA, to which the Queen of Pop responded by claiming he misinterpreted her comments, and then scolded him for doing so publicly!

However, when the DJ was asked about the cyber-feud recently, he responded:

"How is it?! It's terrible. It's just a little trite…everyone will forget about it."

We can certainly understand his discomfort! He doesn't seem the type to want to get caught up in this sort of thing!

Which is why it's always best to keep your mouth shut - especially when you're not 100% clear on what you're talking about!

Lesson learned, we say!

Strike A Pose - 1983

CHRISTINA AGUILERA TO DEBUT NEW SINGLE IN 3 WEEKS!

Allegedly, Christina Aguilera is about ready to debut new material in three weeks. Yes, the end of April might bring the new track that is buzzing across the blogosphere. This is just a rumor so it might change. Let’s hope this time her music offerings are more Stripped and less Bionic.

Madonna’s ‘Truth Or Dare’ Perfume Ad Is Too Racy For TV

A few days ago Madonna released a commercial for her new fragrance called Truth or Dare. Today we learn that the Truth or Dare commercial has been deemed “too racy” for TV and must be edited if it’s to be aired on television here in the US. Feel free to roll your eyes at any time. In more positive news, Madonna has announced that she will return to Twitter to chat with fans next week. So you will get a chance to ask Madge how she feels about this new controversy. Woot!


For showing too much cleavage, Madonna’s perfume ad is banned from television. Her 30-second black and white commercial for Truth or Dare is deemed too racy by ABC that the network has ordered a revision or else they won’t air it. The 53-year-old singer wears a low-cut corset and fishnet stockings while singing and writhing to her dance song. ABC wants the ad digitally altered to cover shots of her body, particularly the corset that shows big area of her breasts and behind. “ABC also wants to cut another suggestive scene where Madonna writhes around,” a source told NY Post. Even after the changes, ABC will only air the commercial after 9 P.M. for older audience.


LOL! I’m sorry but this is complete bullshizz. There is no way that I find anything in this video “too racy” … certainly not “too racy” for daytime/primetime television. Sophia Vergara shows more cleavage than this on Modern Family (an ABC sitcom) and in herCover Girl commercials (which air all day, every day). I can’t help but think that this “controversy” is nothing more than faked PR. This commercial is terribly tame, especially by Madonna standards. I just cannot believe that anyone finds this clip at all “racy”.

Leona Lewis set to debut new single in June…

Leona Lewis is reportedly plotting to debut her new single at Radio 1’s Hackney Weekend this coming June.

The song is said to be a “smash”, but hasn’t that been said for just about every Leona single before its release? It was reported previously that the powerhouse vocalist pushed back her upcoming ‘Glassheart’ album to November, prior to speculation that the label were not happy with the album’s direction. It is also rumoured that the release date could be brought forward as she or her team never confirmed it. As of now, Leona has been holed up in a London studio recording new songs for the project. As reported previously, she’s worked with ‘We Found Love’ producer Calvin Harris on one song called ‘You’ve Messed Up’, and the Emeli Sande-penned ‘Trouble’, which was once touted as a single, is also set to make the final cut. Last night, she celebrated her 27th birthday with a costume-themed party. Looked like fun!

Report: Original Sugababes Land £1million Record Deal

With the obituary of the current line-up of the Sugababes all but read, the group’s original faces are gearing up to stage a storming comeback. One backed by a major label, who according to new reports have signed the ladies to a seven-figure deal.  According to NME, Babes’ staples Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena, and Siobhan Donaghy have inked a £1 million recording contract with Polydor – the Universal Music UK label which also houses Lady GaGa and Cheryl Cole. 

The news comes after what we’re hearing was a fierce bidding war for the reformed trio – who due to legal (and perhaps branding) issues cannot go by the name “Sugababes”, despite being the ones who started the group in 1998. Oh the irony.

However, name or no name, the ladies clearly have a huge buzz surrounding their comeback.

As per the report, “the label have started to pick tracks they think will help them be as big as they once were.”

And so as to ensure the right flavour of material is being cooked up, they’ve spent the last 6 months working with hitmakers Emeli Sande, MNEK, and Naughty Boy. 

It goes without saying, we can’t wait to hear the fruits of their studio labour. For, beyond the nostalgic splendour of seeing the “originals” back together, they are all still so young (ranging between 26-27). Hence, their vocals -collectively and individually – are  likely at their respective peaks. A prospect which makes the notion of new Babes’ material that much more exciting.

Girl Gone Wild (Avicii Remix)

Christina Aguilera: “Album is coming out later this year!”

Christina Aguilera is taking her sweet precious time with her new album, confirming that the hotly anticipated project will be out a little bit later than expected.

She was interviewed backstage by her ‘Voice’ co-star and social media correspondent Christina Milian. Aggy claims that with ‘The Voice’ taking up much of her time, she’s had to change pace as far as the new album is concerned citing “later this year” for its release. After the interview, the two Christina’s sat courtside at the LA Lakers game in Los Angeles the night before (Xtina is even seen wearing the same dress). Good to know she’s taking her time with the album. Quality over quantity any day of the week for me. I also saw some new candids today and she’s definitely lost some weight. She’s also been giving Nicki Minaj some serious competition in the bootylicious department as well. A brand new single could very well be just around the corner.

Watch this space.

HOT SHOT: RIHANNA COVERS ‘FRIDAY MAGAZINE’

Get a load of Rihanna, covering the Swiss publication ‘Friday‘ magazine.

In aid of her new LP ‘Talk That Talk’ and her forthcoming flick ‘Battleship‘ , Rita-lite’s cover comes weeks before she releases the video for ‘Where Have You Been’, her latest single.

New Nicki - POUND THE ALARM!

CISSY HOUSTON BREAKS SILENCE; TALKS WHITNEY’S DEATH

It’s been a month and a half since the world lost the greatest voice of all time,Whitney Houston.

And while family members have stepped forward to talk about their grief, the late star’s mother Cissy Houston has mourned privately.

That is all set to change this coming Monday, though, when the elderly Gospel singer talks exclusively to My9 about the tragedy.

Speaking to the outlet she confessed:

I know I did the best I could… I don’t blame myself. I know I did the best I could for everything. I’m very proud of my daughter. She accomplished a whole lot in the short time that she had here… she was a very wonderful person.

I have my moments… I’m not there yet… I don’t think I’m any more courageous than anyone else.

Adding- with regards to Whitney’s finances:

Whitney did not die broke… she’s not broke. None of that crap.

Catch the interview on MY9 this coming Monday.

CISSY HOUSTON'S FIRST INTERVIEW: My9TV.com

Drake Hints At Aaliyah Duet

Since his debut, Drake has made no secret of his love for the late Aaliyah.

Tattooing her face on his back in her honor, this week saw him hint at a duet between the pair during his recent trip to the UK.

Details below…

He explained:

I have some great Aaliyah news coming soon. Some special things.

Adding, when asked if he recorded vocals for a posthumous duet with her:

Just some special things, you know. Great things for music, period.

GIRL GONE WILD

Amazing!

@MadonnaMDNAday!

Did Madonna answer your question on her live Twitter chat this past Monday?!?

If not, you'll soon get a second chance!

Following an AMAZING first week of GLOBAL sales success for MDNA, Madonna wants to celebrate with YOU!

Madge fans can head over to Twitter on April 4 at 10pm ET to chat with her Madgesty @MadonnaMDNAday!

The queen herself wants to thank her fans for their support, so be sure to log on and tweet your hearts out!

So cool!!!

After ample anticipation, Jennifer Lopez‘s new single ‘Dance Again (ft. Pitbull)’ is finally here!
Having premiered literally seconds ago on The Ryan Seacrest Show, That Grape Juice -as ever-has you covered.


Can J.Lo and Pitbull recreate the magic that rendered ‘On The Floor’ such a smash? Judge for yourself. 

Pulsating and infectious, the track is undeniably a winner. The RedOne cut positions Lopez in her tried and tested mainstay (Dance/Pop), evoking a “worldly” sound in the vein of earlier releases such as ‘Let’s Get Loud’.

Yet, while it arguably tries, an ‘On The Floor’ this is not. For, the track stumbles somewhat with a cheesy weak chorus – which should, structurally, always be a song’s main strength. Yet, here the primary hook is trumped by the pre-chorus, verses, and overall production.

Still, the 42 year old seems to have discovered a forumla which is working for her at this point of her career. Why not max it out?

Kelly Clarkson songwriter contributes to Ciara album…

‘One-Woman Army’

These days, when you see or hear about Ciara, it is never about her new music. She is either attending store openings, an NBA game or hanging out with Kim Kardashian.

Finally, we DO get some fresh info about the new album, as a lot of it has been kept under wraps. Ali Tamposi, the songwriter behind Kelly Clarkson’s ‘Stronger’, confirms she’s been contributing to Ciara’s new album and even name drops a song titled ‘One-Woman Army’, in which she describes as angst, edge and female empowerment. “I’m working on a Ciara album, and she’s been great. It’s Livvi Franc and I who are doing most of the writing for it, and it’s been really cool and laid back so that’s been fun. There’s a lot of angst and edge in [Ciara’s] music and we’ve tried to be really conceptual and write things that haven’t been done before and real strong women empowerment songs. This is what I’ve been really wanting to do: Focus on one project. So we’ve been doing that the last few weeks now”. Excited? Read on!

When asked if there was ever a topic she haven’t covered in a song, but would like to, she spoke about the song she wrote for Ciara in further detail: “I really wanted to use, for years, the title ‘One-Woman Army,’ and I just used it with Ciara. I had it initially as ‘One-Man Army,’ and I changed it and it’s [about] a strong, really independent woman that if you’re going to be a part of her life you have to be strong, a fighter, a solider. It’s a really strong song. We’re working on that right now”. Source.

I can’t wait to see what she did with Ciara. ‘One-Woman Army’ sounds hit-worthy already and she has worked with an eclectic, variety of producers. Yes, it does sound good on paper, and it could very well yield different results once fully executed but I’m still here for it. Fans can only hope Ciara gets the best end of the deal now that she has moved labels. It could very well be the best decision she’s made.