Steven Tyler mocks Lopez's slip

Steven Tyler has mocked Jennifer Lopez's alleged Oscar wardrobe malfunction.The Latina star caused a stir when her low-cut dress seemingly revealed more of her chest than intended as she presented an award on Sunday.During filming for the latest series of American Idol, Jennifer's fellow judge Steven Tyler couldn't resist teasing the singer for her alleged dress slip."I"m as confused as a baby in a topless bar. You know, Jennifer dared me to take my pants off and jump in the water and it was all over the press. And now she's out-pressing me! Wait, wait, who am I?' he asked in jest before sneezing and pulling down his shirt to expose his chest.Since the incident, Jennifer's team has spoken out to deny the accident.Two of the actress' stylists have said that due to the structure of the Zuhair Murad gown, it would have been virtually impossible to reveal too much.I don't even know what to say to that,' Jennifer exclaimed at the Aerosmith rocker's antics.'I think that was an Oscar re-enactment,' Randy Jackson added.The incident has been making headlines all over the world and a spoof Twitter account has been set up under the name of @JLosNipple.

Celine Dion ordered to take 2 months off by doctor

Celine Dion has cancelled her next two months of gigs in Las Vegas under doctor's orders.Professor Gerald Berke MD, a leading medical expert on laryngeal physiology at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, has discovered a weakness in Celine's right vocal chord, secondary to a viral illness.Professor Berke has ordered Celine to take the next 6-8 weeks off work in order to completely rest her voice and recover from the condition.I tried to sing at my sound-check last week, and I had no control of my voice whatsoever,' said Celine. 'We thought that after a few days rest I would improve but it wasn't getting any better.I guess it was worse than I thought. I'm fortunate that I was able to see Professor Berke. He identified what was causing the problems I was having, and he assured me that with the amount of rest he prescribed, I would be back to 100%. Obviously this is the worst thing for a singer..not being able to do your shows. I feel worse knowing that I'm disappointing my fans. I'm so sorry...I hope they forgive me.'ried to sing at my sound-check last week, and I had no control of my voice whatsoever,' said Celine. 'We thought that after a few days rest I would improve but it wasn't getting any better.I guess it was worse than I thought. I'm fortunate that I was able to see Professor Berke. He identified what was causing the problems I was having, and he assured me that with the amount of rest he prescribed, I would be back to 100%. Obviously this is the worst thing for a singer..not being able to do your shows. I feel worse knowing that I'm disappointing my fans. I'm so sorry...I hope they forgive me.'

Gary Numan Gary Numan interview

Gary Numan hardly needs an introduction as the pioneer and godfather of electronica. Creative and experimental, Numan is and was the epitome of cool. Foo Fighters and Nine Inch Nails, to name but a few, have hailed Gary as one of their overriding influences.In this very candid backstage interview, Gary talks about his life both inside and outside the music industry. Gary Numan discusses life on tour and missing his family but also how the music industry has treated him - he is not stuck in the 80’s, so why are we? He also reflects on winning his recent Legend Award at the Artrocker’s and how he still loves being in the business after all this time.In the middle of recording his new album Splinter, Gary will be on the Machine Music tour starting in May going all the way through to June. If you’re an avid fan or film maker, you can get involved in the up- coming tour. Fans are being encouraged to make visuals that will be projected during a selection of tracks.

Brian May puzzled by new music

Brian May 'doesn't understand' most modern music.The Queen star is widely thought of as one of the most talented guitarists in the world. The type of rock music he is famed for isn't as popular as it once was, with dance and R&B tunes charting higher these days.Brian can't fathom why tastes have changed so much. I was driving around in the car and I had [UK music station] Radio 1 on and basically I don't understand a lot. I think I'm too old to understand it,' he laughed.Queen are set to play a series of shows later this year. American Idol star Adam Lambert will front the performances, in place of the late Freddie Mercury.Adam took part in the eighth season of the TV singing contest, coming in second place behind Kris Allen. The show aired in 2009 and as soon as Brian saw Adam he knew he wanted to work with him.It's very exciting, we are touring with a young man called Adam Lambert so it will be very different and new,' he told BBC Radio 1. 'Adam has made a sensation really and has an incredible voice. I was instantly drawn to him, I tuned in and watched. We went over for the final, they were both great but Adam has this incredible range. Freddie would be pretty amazed.'

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart relase Record Store Day EP

Brooklyn based Indie-Pop quartet 'The Pains of Being Pure at Heart' have announced details of a remix EP in support of Record Store Day, released on Play It Again Sam on limited edition coloured vinyl.

Track listing:
1. Heart In Your Heartbreak (Twin Shadow Remix)
2. The Body (Violens Remix)
3. Too Tough (Saint Etienne Remix)
4. My Terrible Friend (Washed Out Remix)

The remixes are lifted from their 2011 follow-up album, 'Belong' (March 2011), which was produced by Grammy award winning 'Flood' (Depeche Mode, U2) and alternative-rock royalty, Alan Moulder (Smashing Pumpkins, Jesus and Mary Chain, Ride)". The band also play a one off London show this March, tickets are on sale now.

Thursday 8th March 2012
O2 Academy Islington
N1 Centre, 16 Parkfield Street, London, N1 0PS o2academyislington.co.uk
£16.00 adv ticketweb.co.uk or 0844 477 2000

The Enemy and Ghostpoet confirm Live at Leeds

Following on from the initial announcement which featured Example, Los Campesinos!, The Subways, LadyHawke and I Like Trains we can now bring you the latest additions to Live at Leeds 2012 which takes place on 4th May to 7th May. The Enemy, Dog is Dead, Ghost Poet and Lianne La Havas and many more have now been added to the huge line-up taking the total to over 100 bands. 

The full line-up for Live At Leeds 2012 at www.liveatleeds.com

The Hot Frolics

Leicester's newest and hottest band The Hot Frolics will be launching their zesty pop rock on to the Leicester music scene this month. The quartet, based in Ashby de la Zouch, have high expectations for 2012 and will be kicking off their musical adventure at The Soundhouse on Thursday 23rd February. The Hot Frolics consist of Steve Marsden, Jon Tandy, Ben Storer and Andy Abbott and were put together by Steve in November 2011. "It's exciting to be part of something that has real potential", frontman Marsden told us. "Individually we have done some amazing things, from supporting bands like The Streets to playing at the O2 arena. But being able to control our own musical fate is a real incentive to work hard and do what we enjoy."The lads have big plans for 2012 that include playing at local and national music festivals, performances on radio and touring the west coast of the USA. On Saturday 18th February, Steve will also be performing an Acoustic set as part of an Artsin Showcase at The Shed.

German band returns to Leicester

Leipzig based electronica band DIN Martin are to play at the Firebug on Tuesday 20th March. The band is making a return visit to Leicester, having played last year at Lock42. The band is also playing at a number of other English towns before returning to Germany. The band's new album is due out in March.The Firebug show will be headlined by Leicester's rising band Raptusound. The local band are to appear at the Original Bands showcase, held at the musician on 10th March. The band is releasing its new E.P. in March.

Band relaunches

Hopeless Oceans is the new name for the Leicester band previously playing under the name Ashes to the Fall. The band is still the same line-up but they are writing a new set of songs with a new sound. Lead singer Eddie said "Ashes to the Fall didn't relate to us and we didn't like the sound of it." The band are already booked to play the Glastonbudget Festival. " Our set is becoming more and more exciting everytime we practice! Cant wait to get on the road" Eddie said. Previously playing metal, they are now working up a set as "epic hardcore".

Kid Rock + Detroit Symphony: It'll Be 'Big'

That might be the case on May 12, when Kid Rock and his Twisted Brown Trucker band performs a special concert with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the city's 5,000-set Fox Theatre that's designed to raise $1 million for the institution.Rock tells Billboard.com he's never attended a DSO concert but that "as a musician, a cultural institution like that in Detroit is important, and I thought I could do it. I thought it would be something different to play with an orchestra and do something great."Rock says he and the DSO are "in the early stages" of determining the concert's repertoire. He hopes to bring in Rob Mathes, musical director of the annual Kennedy Center Honors, to handle the orchestral arrangements, and he says everything in his repertoire is up for grabs. "I hear a big symphonic opening to 'Born Free,' where I'm singing behind this big orchestration that builds up to the payoff of the song," explains Rock who doesn't anticipate having any guests be part of the show. "I did 'Picture' once at Carnegie Hall with Marvin Hamlisch conduction (an orchestra), so that works. I hear 'Bawitdaba' being kind of insane. 'Cowboy' seems to be a little tricky, but maybe...we don't call them violins; we call them fiddles for that song.Rock says "Born Free" producer Rick Rubin is somewhat involved with the new material, but not as extensively as with that album. "We've been meaning to get together just for me to play him new songs and stuff," Rock says. "He's heard a couple things, and the stuff he's heard he was excited about." Rock is planning a light touring schedule for the rest of the year -- including the BamaJam during June in Alabama and July performances at the Moondance Jam in Minnesota and the North Dakota State Fair. Rock is planning "a full assault" in 2013 to support the new album.

Brother & Bones The Borderline, London

Never in my life have I heard a crowd shushing everyone when a band arrived on stage. The vibe in the room was electric in anticipation. Opening with ‘Here Comes the Storm’ Rich Thomas’ earthy vocals combined with moody percussion and a heavy bass ripped through the floor. One song in and the audience was gripped!Before the next song, Rich Thomas spoke to the room - “A year ago 10-15 people came to watch us and a year on we are performing on a Friday night at the Borderline”. Genuine and lacking in ego, next they played ‘Back to Shore’ a track that wouldn’t sound out of place on Xfm’s Rock show or Magic FM’s Drivetime. Leaving any misconceived comparisons to Mumford and Sons in the dust, the band manage to combine the anger of Black Sabbath with the melodic styling’s of Pearl Jam. But to be honest, comparisons do Brother& Bones a disservice.Near the end of the set was ‘Gold and Silver’ where the stage was left to Rich Thomas. An exceptionally beautiful track and emotive vocal brought the house down. The room was entranced and the accompanying silence was only broken by the occasional click of people filming the band on their phones. Exploding from the hushed beauty of ‘Gold and Silver’ came ‘Man in Need’ bringing with it the a crowd singing back every word twice as loud!And just as soon as it begun, the set ended. Not to be deprived of the epic music, the desperate crows chanted “one more song… one more song”. The lads performed two more tracks – ‘No Soul’ and ‘Stand Alone’ – each as barnstorming as the original set. After thanking everyone for coming and leaving the stage, the whole room stood routed to the spot cheering “one more song!” Proof of a very loyal and growing fan base!

Guns N' Roses return for UK for May tour

One of the greatest rock bands of all time is back with the most anticipated tour of 2012. After selling out arenas around the globe in 2011, Guns N' Roses ' 'the most dangerous band in the world' - are storming the UK this Spring. It all coincides with the band's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, an honour they nabbed as soon as they were eligible. And, as with everything related to Axl Rose and his cohorts, this tour is guaranteed to cause a stir. Never far from controversy, but always true to the music, GNR are still the most talked about hard rock band of the past 20 years.G 'n' R will be taking the 'Night train' to travel the country with gigs in Paradise cities Nottingham, Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester and London in May. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday 2nd March through www.aeglive.co.uk 

Tour dates:
19 May Nottingham Arena
20 May Liverpool Echo Arena
23 May Newcastle Metro
25 May Glasgow SECC
26 May Birmingham LG Arena
29 May Manchester Arena

31 May London The O2

After rising to fame in the late 80's and gaining worldwide recognition with their hit single Sweet Child of Mine in 1988, the band went on to release five albums including the double Use Your Illusion I and Use Your Illusion II which was the first in history to walk off with both top spots on the Billboard chart. VHI has also named Welcome to the Jungle 'Best Hard Rock Song' - a fitting accolade for such a rock anthem. Guns N' Roses' most recent release, and fifth studio album, Chinese Democracy went straight to the top of the charts in thirteen countries, as well as going platinum in 15.

Muppets beat Sergio Mendes for Oscar

'Man or Muppet' for The Muppets movie has won the best Original Song music award at the Oscars. The Academy Awards pretty much insulted the music industry with only two nominations for Original Song this year. The other nominee was Sergio Mendes for 'Real In Rio' from Rio. The only other music category for Original Score was won by Ludovic Bource for The Artist. Also nominated were John Williams for 'The Adventures of Tintin', Howard Shore for 'Hugo', Alberto Iglesias for 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy' and John Williams for 'War Horse'.For all the winners and the latest on the Oscars please visit our sister site

Delilah announces new single 'Breathe' and UK headline tour

North London 21-year-old sensation Delilah has announced details of her new single 'Breathe', out on April 30th through Atlantic Records. Produced by Delilah and Hyperdub label's LV, 'Breathe' was written by Delilah at the tender age of 15. She says of the track: ''Breathe' is the first song I wrote in first person. I call it my self-help song.' To coincide with the release, Delilah has revealed details of her first UK headline tour, which kicks off at Glasgow's o2 ABC 2 on April 12th, with further shows scheduled for Newcastle, Liverpool, Manchester, Oxford, Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol and Norwich, before finishing up at London's KOKO on April 24.Delilah recently unveiled a free downloadable mixtape entitled '2 - 4am' from her official website delilahofficial.co.uk. The mixtape features eight tracks, including Joe Goddard's fantastic remix of 'Love You So', as well as some previously unreleased material. It also includes 'Never Be Another', playlisted on 1Xtra where she's included in their Hot For 2012 artists. The mixtape gives fans an early taster of what can be expected from her forthcoming debut album, 'From the Roots Up', out this summer through Atlantic Records. 

FULL UK TOUR DATES
12 April Glasgow O2 ABC 2
13 April Newcastle O2 Academy 2
14 April Liverpool O2 Academy 2
16 April Manchester Academy 3
17 April Oxford O2 Academy 2
18 April Birmingham HMV Institute
20 April Brighton Concorde 2
21 April Bristol Thekla
22 April Norwich Waterfront
24 April London KOKO

Whitney Houston remembered at Oscars

Whitney Houston was honoured at the 84th Annual Academy Awards last night.The iconic singer died in a Los Angeles hotel on February 11 aged just 48. Her passing sent shockwaves around the world, just one day before the Grammy Awards took place.Last night, Whitney was remembered at the Oscars in a montage titled In Memoriam, presented by host Billy Crystal.The clip included a number of producers, costume designers, directors and film stars who have passed away in the last year.Elizabeth Taylor and Apple co-founder Steve Jobs were also honoured in the heartfelt montage.Esperanza Spalding wowed with a version of What a Wonderful World as the clips played. Her powerful performance was backed by the Southern California Children''s Choir.As she sang her emotional rendition, the black and white clips were played behind her on a big screen.The audience at the Kodak Theatre was politely asked to hold their applause until the last clip concluded on the montage. Meanwhile, The Muppets took home the best song gong at the ceremony. Songwriter Bret McKenzie was presented the award for Man or Muppet.It was written by the actor and performed by The Muppets actor Jason Segel as Gary and Peter Linz as Walter the Muppet.It was touted as the front runner for the prestigious gong.

Black Sabbath add single US date

What sounded like a one-off reunion of the original (or mostly original) Black Sabbath at this year's Download Festival has expanded, to one additional show. Sharon Osbourne told the VH1 Radio Network that there will also be one appearance in the U.S. 'They're gonna be doing one show in America this summer but I can't say yet (where and when it is) because we can't announce it, the promoters have to. But they are doing one show in August.' As far as whether drummer Bill Ward will be included, she said 'We don't know yet, we really don't know. It's up to Bill. The door is open for him to join us, so it's up to him.' She also went on to say that they already have around fifteen songs ready to record for an album.

Mel B reveals music ban

Mel B won't let her children listen to 'hardcore gangster rap'.The former Spice Girl and her husband Stephen Belafonte have a six-month-old daughter Madison together, while Mel has two other girls from previous relationships, Phoenix Chi and Angel Iris.The star has discussed her daughters' musical tastes, and says she allows them to listen to their own tastes within reason.Well, obviously I'm not going to play hardcore gangster rap for my kids round the clock, but I think, especially with the internet and stuff these days, they listen to what they want. That's with my 13-year-old. But Angel, she's still at the nursery rhyme stage, so I'm safe with her,' she told the Kyle and Jackie O radio show.'But you know, teenagers are going to listen to anything.'Mel is currently residing in Australia, after landing roles in both the Australian versions of The X Factor and Dancing with the Stars. Consequently, she is putting her children through schooling in the country and is happy about her decision.'I rode the school bus the other day, it was thoroughly enjoyable. I actually enjoyed hanging out with all the kids. Phoenix is 13 so it's good to be cool with the teenagers, man,' she joked.Mel was recently announced as the new host of Dancing with the stars. She is replacing long-time presenter Sonia Kruger, which she is slightly anxious about.

Bellowhead announce tour dates

Five-times winner of 'Best Live Band' at the BBC Radio 2 Awards, Bellowhead have announced their biggest tour to date in November 2012 with 19 shows across the UK, including the prestigious Roundhouse in Camden Town on 7th November. Tickets will be on sale from Friday 24 February.After a fantastic year that saw record number album sales and an epic number of sell-out live shows, the UK's favourite folk big band have already kicked off 2012 in characteristic style with a successful first tour of Europe, including major venues in Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels and Hamburg. Despite Arctic temperatures outside, Bellowhead were instantly received with the warmth and enthusiasm that they already enjoy at home.The band are currently writing and recording the follow-up to their highly acclaimed album 'Hedonism' which, since its release in October 2010, has gone on to sell a boundary-crossing 60,000 albums. The new album will be out in October 2012.

 NOVEMBER 2012
Tue 6 WOLVERHAMPTON Wulfrun Hall
Wed 7 LONDON Roundhouse
Thu 8 ST ALBANS Arena
Fri 9 NORWICH Open
Sat 10 CAMBRIDGE Corn Exchange
Sun 11 SOUTHAMPTON Guildhall
Mon 12 CARDIFF Coal Exchange
Tue 13 BRIGHTON Dome
Wed 14 READING The Hexagon
Thu 15 LEAMINGTON Assembly
Fri 16 YORK Barbican
Sat 17 BRISTOL Colston Hall
Sun 18 SALFORD The Lowry
Mon 19 GATESHEAD The Sage Gateshead
Tue 20 INVERNESS The Ironworks
Wed 21 EDINBURGH The Queens Hall
Thu 22 BRADFORD St Georges Hall
Fri 23 LINCOLN Engine Shed
Sat 24 DERBY Assembly Rooms

www.bellowhead.co.uk
www.facebook.com/bellowhead

Little Feat and Frank Zappa bassist jailed for 25 years

Roy Estrada, an original member of both Little Feat and Frank Zappa's Mothers Of Invention, has been jailed for 25 years for child molestation. Estrada pleaded guilty for molesting a child under 14 for an extended period of time. The court heard how Estrada abused a female family member after he had been released from prison on another child molestation charge. Estrada will serve the 25 year sentence and will not be eligible for parole.
Roy Estrada formed the Mothers of Invention with Frank Zappa but left in 1969 to form Little Feat with Lowell George. He played on the first two Little Feat albums. After Little Feat he joined Captain Beefheart's Magic Band and then return to Zappa in 1976 for the 'Zoot Allures' album. In December 1994 Estrada was sentenced to six years for lewd acts with a child. The 68-year bass player will be 93 when he is released from prison this time.

Cher prepares for new tour

Remember Cher's Farewell Tour that lasted for about five years? Well, she's not done saying "farewell" quite yet as she gets ready to go on the road starting in September. The singer has been discussing the possibility of a tour with her Twitter followers for over six months but it appears to be a reality. She tweated on Thursday night. OH MY GOD !!!! JUST SAW THE SETS 4 THE SHOW !!! I CANT SHOW U CAUSE YOUD NEVER 4GIVE ME ! THERES SO MUCH MAGIC I AM BREATHLESS ! No s--t im shaking ! The whole set/Look chamges 4 every song! I mean COMPLETING CHANGES! Tour starts in sept.! First dates Kansas According to Billboard, she is looking at a show that will, naturally, include the hits but will also have music from Burlesque and an upcoming album which is expected to include the song The Greatest Thing with Lady Gaga.

Morning Parade dates

As the countdown continues to the release of their long-anticipated self-titled debut album on March 5th, Morning Parade continue to make waves across Europe after helping to launch US flagship channel HBO in Holland and achieving widespread radio chart success in multiple European countries. The band have also made a big splash Stateside, with MTV USA recently premiering track 'Us and Ourselves' before placing it on heavy rotation across multiple channels. They have also just confirmed a main support slot on The Kooks' sold out US tour including a night at Terminal 5 in New York and a string of SXSW dates. Full tour dates below. Morning Parade's track 'Under the Stars' is currently being used to launch Holland's new HBO Network with the band performing at the exclusive launch party in Amsterdam's Red Light District. The band have also been heavily supported by leading Dutch radio station 3FM, recently performing four songs live on the Net Michiel Show. Currently, tracks 'Headlights' and 'Us and Ourselves' are playlisted simultaneously in Switzerland, Holland, Poland and Germany. 

Morning Parade Dates with The Kooks & SXSW:

2/29 Zurich, Switzerland Mascotte
3/2 Leysin , Switzerland Champs Leysin Festival
3/6 London Heaven
3/7 New York, NY Terminal 5
3/9 New Haven, CT Toad's Place
3/10 Providence, RI Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel
3/14 Austin, TX - SXSW Official SXSW Showcase at Tap Room At Six
3/14 Austin, TX - SXSW 3FM Radio party
3/15 Austin, TX - SXSW East Of England party at Latitude
3/15 Austin, TX - SXSW Communion, Neon Gold, Plugged In party
3/17 Austin, TX - SXSW Pure Volume House party

Album Review: Van Halen, 'A Different Kind of Truth'

VAN HALEN
"A Different Kind of Truth"
Producers: Van Halen, John Shanks
Label: Interscope Records
Release Date: Feb. 7 

It's been a whopping 28 years since David Lee Roth last made an album as the frontman of Van Halen -- more than twice as long, in other words, as his original stint with the legendary Los Angeles hard rock band. Yet for all the in-fighting that's gone down between Roth and Eddie Van Halen in the last few decades (including during a fractious 2007 reunion tour), there's no denying the chemistry they share on "A Different Kind of Truth." Less than a minute into first single "Tattoo," the album's opener, Roth is layering his drunk-uncle yowl over a blistering Van Halen riff in an utterly familiar manner. Of course, that might result from the fact that the band has said it assembled much of Truth from unused song scraps left over from the bad old days. Hardcore fans will no doubt spend the time until Van Halen's arena tour reaches their town combing their old bootlegs for the provenance of the breakneck "China Town" and the acoustic-bluesy "Stay Frosty." As comeback albums go, though, this one feels unusually natural.

Love Saves The Day festival to launch in Bristol

Love Saves The Day is a brand new greenfield festival in the heart of Bristol. The team behind Glastonbury Dance Village's Wow! stage, last year's incredible See No Evil and one half of the brains behind In:Motion amongst many other events have come together to put all these years of experience into what will be a celebration of all of it, a celebration of this city and all that makes it so great, but beyond that a celebration of music, parties, and good times. Combing local knowledge and local passion, Team Love will announce further artists over the forthcoming weeks and will throw the mother of all parties in Bristol in June. Thanks to the Queen you can kick back and relax and let some of the world's most pioneering artists take you on a sonic journey. The initial line up includes the likes of Jamie Jones, Koreless Live, Maya Jane Coles, Pearson Sound & Joy Orbison - B2B, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Bonobo, Joy Orbison, Greg Wilson, Mr Scruff and many many more. 

 Tickets available from: http://www.residentadvisor.net/event.aspx?341737
Priced £19.50 + booking fee
http://lovesavestheday.org/

George Harrison would have celebrated 69th year

George Harrison, the youngest Beatle, would have been 69-years old this weekend. George was born on February 25, 1943. He was 8 months younger than Paul McCartney and 2 years younger than John Lennon and Ringo Starr. In any other band George would have been the star but in The Beatles his songs were low priority after the songs of Lennon and McCartney. When I interviewed George in 1994 he told me talked about the frustration of the songwriting ranking within The Beatles. 'It was frustrating at times when we had to wade through millions of 'Maxwell's Silver Hammer's' before we could get to one of mine, you know. Because I think now that when you look retrospectively, that there were a couple of my tunes that were good enough, or better, than ones that Paul or John had written occasionally. But you know, that's just how it was. It doesn't bother me, really. I was just on hold for a while'. George's Beatle songs today are often cited as some of the band's best moments. 'Here Comes The Sun', 'Something', 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' and 'Taxman' are now rock classics. George's solo album 'All Things Must Pass' is also one of rock's greatest recorded moments with songs like 'My Sweet Lord', 'What If Life', 'Beware of Darkness' and 'Isn't It A Pity'.

Nicki Minaj, Pitbull and Nero join Wireless Festival

Barclaycard Wireless Festival is thrilled to announce that US megastar Nicki Minaj is one of the latest acts confirmed to play the festival on Saturday 7 July. Nero, Tulisa, Knife Party and Dbanj also join the Saturday bill which is headlined by Drake, whilst Pitbull, Cher Lloyd, Madeon, A$AP Rocky and Stooshe have been added to the line up on Sunday 8 July, headlined by Rihanna. Jessie J, Calvin Harris, J.Cole, Example, Wiz Khalifa, Professor Green and Rizzle Kicks, are amongst the other acts that are already confirmed on the weekend's sizzling line-up. 

Line-up so far:
Saturday 7 July Sunday 8 July
Drake Rihanna
Very Special Guest ' Nicki Minaj Jessie J
Example J Cole
Wiz Khalifa Rizzle Kicks
Professor Green Labrinth
Knife Party Pitbull
Tulisa Cher Lloyd
D'Banj Kaskade
Plus special guest ' Nero Madeon
A$AP Rocky
Flux Pavilion
Stooshe
Plus special guest Calvin Harri

Pendulum, Ms. Dynamite and Sub Focus join High Definition

High Definition Festival is excited to announce the first set of performers for 2012. Taking place on Saturday June 30th at Forest Farm in Essex, and following the extraordinary success of last year's gathering, High Definition Festival returns for a second year of unrivalled music and entertainment. Australian Drum and Bass sensations Pendulum are the first headliners to be announced and will be thrilling the crowds with a typically eclectic, twisted and energetic DJ set. Joining them on the bill is Mercury Prize winning artist Ms. Dynamite. The singer of top 10 UK hits 'It Takes More' and 'Dy-Na-Mi-Tee' will be turning up the heat with her unique urban sound. Sub Focus has worked with the likes of Dizzee Rascal, deadmau5, The Prodigy and Basement Jaxx. Registering a #1 in the UK Dance Charts with his breakthrough hit 'X-Ray' he ranks amongst the top acts in Drum & Bass and Dubstep. Without a doubt one of the most important Urban DJ's on BBC Radio, MistaJam will be escaping the broadcast studio to bring you the best in Drum and Bass, Dubstep, UK Funky, Grime and just about everything in between. Featuring five specialist stages, the event will showcase a wide variety of the finest talent across the spectrum of electronic music. Further artist announcements to follow. 

Tickets are now on sale. Strictly limited numbers of early bird tickets are available at £25, with standard tickets following at £40 and VIP tickets at £75.

For tickets

www.highdefinitionfestival.co.uk
www.facebook.com/hdfestuk
www.twitter.com/hdfestuk

Happy Mondays to headline Camp Bestival

Having just reformed the original line-up The Happy Mondays have confirmed they will headline Camp Bestival festival at Lulworth castle in Dorset. They will close the event on Sunday night with Hot Chip on the Friday. The lineup also includes Dodgy, Kool and the Gang, Mr Scruff and Hot Chip side-project The 2 Bears. Organiser Rob da Bank is thrilled with his Madchester signing."I" m amazed this band are coming to Camp Bestival. The Happy Mondays are one of those iconic British outfits that perfectly capture all that's best about our musical make up...indie, dance, rave, pop and Shaun Ryder?s lyrical wit. I grew up dancing like a rubbish Bez to the Mondays and fully intend to indulge in some creaky freaky dancing some the Sunday night of Camp B..Hope you'll join me." Camp Bestival takes place July 26 - 29 2012.

Public Image Ltd announce 2 London club dates and EP

Public Image Ltd can confirm they will play 2 club dates at London's Heaven on April Fools Day April 1stand April 2nd. John Lydon: 'Because you deserve better, there is a PiL in Heaven. Get proper emotions.' The shows at Heaven, London promise to be very special with PiL showcasing live some of their first new material for 20 years taken from the recently announced EP 'One Drop' released for Record Store Day onApril 21st and forthcoming album 'This Is PiL' May 28th. Live favourites such as 'Rise', 'This Is Not A Love Song' and 'Flowers Of Romance' are also likely to be performed. These new shows will follow on from PiL's already sold out special guest live performance as part of BBC Radio 6 Birthday celebrations at Queen Elizabeth Hall on March 16th. Public Image Ltd can confirm that a 4 track 'EP' entitled 'One Drop' is set to be released for 'Record Store Day' on April 21st, marking their first new material for 20 years. The 4 track 'EP' is taken from the forthcoming album 'This Is PiL' released on May 28th. Both the new EP and album is self-funded by PiL and will be released on PiL's own label 'PiL Official' viaCargo UK Distribution. All the new material was recorded in the UK last year at Steve Winwood's studio in the Cotswolds. 'One Drop is a reflection of where I grew up in Finsbury Park, London. The area that shaped me, and influenced me culturally and musically, a place I will forever feel connected to. But within this I am also saying it doesn't matter where you come from, we all go through the same emotions especially the disenchanted youth of today, yesterday and the future. Bearing in mind the Olympics are in London this year and who knows what that could bring for London and our country..'

Full track listing for the EP
1. One Drop
2. I Must Be Dreaming
3. The Room I Am In
4. Lollipop Opera

Kasabian, Stone Roses and Snow Patrol confirm T In The Park

Snow Patrol, The Stone Roses and Kasabian will all headline the three-day event at Kinross in Scotland. Snow Patrol will play Friday July 6, on a bill that also features Tinie Tempah, New Order, Florence And The Machine, Kaiser Chiefs, Temper Trap, The Darkness, Pulled Apart By Horses, Tribes and more. Saturday July 7 sees The Stone Roses, plus Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, Calvin Harris, The Vaccines, Two Door Cinema Club, Ben Howard, The Courteeners, The Maccabees, Enter Shikari, Peter Doherty and more. Kasabian head up Sunday July 8, with a bill including Elbow, Chase And Status, Happy Mondays, James Morrison, Frank Turner, The Enemy, Miles Kane, Maverick Sabre, Twin Atlantic, The Horrors, Spector, Band OF Skulls and more. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Wednesday February 29. See www.tinthepark.com for more info.

Avril Lavigne wants X Factor job

Avril Lavigne reportedly wants to be an X Factor judge. The Canadian singer-songwriter is said to have told her management to enquire about the possibility of making her a mentor on the second series of the US version of the talent show. A protégée of current panelist L.A. Reid, the rock starlet shot to fame at the tender age of 17 and thinks her showbiz experience and award-winning career qualify her for a role on the panel. Following the departure of Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger from the American version of the programme, there are two judges'' seats to fill alongside Simon Cowell and L.A. According to our sources, Avril had her people reach out to the folks at X Factor to let them know she''d like to be considered for the job. Our sources says Avril feels that since she came up in the biz at such a young age, she can mentor the kids on the show the right way,' US website TMZ reports. Meanwhile, it has been claimed that Beyoncé Knowles has demanded $50million to join the UK X Factor judging panel. The global pop sensation is said to have been approached by show boss Simon Cowell to take former mentor Kelly Rowland's seat on the 2012 series. According to reports, the media mogul has been left stunned by the Love On Top singer's asking price, which roughly equals the budget for the entire programme. 'Even Simon was shocked by the scale of Beyoncé's demands. However, she would be an incredible signing,' a source told British newspaper The Mirror.

Primal Scream join IOW Festival line-up

The genre-defining Primal Scream will headline the Festival opening night in the Big Top on Thursday June 21st. Also joining the Big Top's red-hot bill will be one of the originators of drum & bass and this week's current no. 1, DJ Fresh, who will be appearing on Friday June 22nd. Critically acclaimed duo The Pierces will bring their irresistible magnetism to The Garden Stage on Sunday June 24th for a magical headline performance. Primal Scream have influenced countless bands and artists and been widely acclaimed by critics as one of the defining groups of the 1990s. Now the band returns to the island and takes their inimitable style to headline the Big Top on Thursday night. Also joining the bill on Friday is DJ Fresh who has had an impressive 12 months taking the UK dance sensation by storm. Topping the bill on The Garden Stage on Sunday are Allison and Catherine Pierce aka The Pierces who make a welcome return for the second year running. The Isle of Wight Festival hosts the biggest names in music, along with the best up and coming acts around, making it one of the most loved events of the summer calendar. Make sure you head to the official Isle of Wight Festival Facebook site Facebook.com/iwfestival for all the latest Festival updates, exclusive news, videos & interviews. And follow us on Twitter @IsleofWightFest to get up to the minute tweets to keep you in the know!

2012 LINE UP:

TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS • PEARL JAM • BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND • GROOVE ARMADA • THE DARKNESS • MAGNETIC MAN • ELBOW • BIFFY CLYRO • NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS • EXAMPLE • TINIE TEMPAH • NOAH AND THE WHALE • JESSIE J • THE VACCINES • FEEDER • MADNESS • PRIMAL SCREAM • LABRINTH • KELIS • ENTER SHIKARI • DJ FRESH • ASH • BAND OF SKULLS • JOAN ARMATRADING • PROFESSOR GREEN • WRETCH 32 • KATY B • BLACK STONE CHERRY • LOICK ESSIEN • STOOSHE • CLEMENT MARFO & THE FRONTLINE • SPECTOR • ZULU WINTER • THE MILK • SWITCHFOOT • BOYCE AVENUE • BRIT FLOYD • CRYSTAL CASTLES • THE CHARLATANS TELLIN' STORIES • THE PIERCES • MILES KANE • PULLED APART BY HORSES • BEST COAST • DRY THE RIVER • CARO EMERALD • PENGUIN PRISON • X • THE VIRGINMARYS • THE CHRISTIANS • CHRISTINA PERRI •BETH HART • TERRY REID • STACKRIDGE • TENSHEDS • THE REAL D'COY

Metric announce new album 'Synthetica'

METRIC has confirmed June 18th, 2012 as the UK release date for their fifth full-length studio album, Synthetica. Following the success of their last album Fantasies, which was self-released outside Canada and sold well over a million albums/singles worldwide, Synthetica will continue the trend and be released through the band's own label. While many artists feel strangled by the industry's power structure, the Toronto-based quartet has undone all their business entanglements and started their own company, Metric Music International (MMI) with the help of independent managers Mathieu Drouin and Françoise de Grandpré. On Fantasies, they became the first artist in history to achieve their first ever Top 20 hit at U.S. commercial radio without the backing of a traditional label; sold out arenas and headlined festivals; picked up JUNO Awards for "Alternative Album of the Year" and "Band of the Year"; had a hand in scoring films for everyone from Edgar Wright to David Cronenberg, and wrote the theme song for the Grammy nominated and Academy Award shortlisted Twilight: Eclipse soundtrack with composer Howard Shore. They even performed "Gimme Sympathy" at a private event for the Queen of England Shaw describes Synthetica's enthralling balance of futuristic and organic sound on the new record as '[.] the culmination of everything we've done. We've always had a sound in our heads that we hoped to realize. We finally heard it coming back out of the speakers this time.' Haines first envisioned the word 'Synthetica' as the name for a particularly resilient skin-job from Blade Runner, a female replicant who voices an inner monologue of all your human imperfections. "If you imagine a nightmarishly fake version of me as a pop star, that's her,' she says. "And this record was about me saying, I'm going to give more to the music than ever, but there's no way I'm going to turn into someone like that." As she sings on the album's hard-rocking title track; "We're all the time confined to fit the mold / But I won't ever let them make a loser of my soul."

One Direction get highest US Hot 100 debut for UK act in 14 years

One Direction's single 'What Makes You Beautiful' is the highest US Hot 100 debut for a UK act in over 14 years. One Direction makes waves on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart this week as 'What Makes You Beautiful' debuts at No. 28. It's the highest bow for a UK act's debut US single in nearly 14 years, since the Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony' entered at No. 13 on the chart dated March 28, 1998. Beautiful' sold 132,000 downloads in its first week according to Nielsen SoundScan, starting at No. 12 on the Digital Songs chart. The last UK group to see its first US single start higher was the Spice Girls, when 'Wannabe' landed at No. 11 on Jan. 25, 1997. 'Wannabe' vaulted to No. 1 four weeks later, spending four straight weeks at the top of the tally. The success of 'Beautiful' may only be just the beginning. It makes its retail launch even before One Direction's record label -- Columbia -- officially begins going for airplay at pop radio next week.   Next up for the group will be a US tour with Big Time Rush beginning Feb. 24 in Chicago, with dates lined up through March 9 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. They'll also play NBC's Today show on March 12 -- the day before 'Up All Night' is released.

The Beatles ringtones released for the first time worldwide

Beginning today, Beatles fans around the world can, for the first time, purchase ringtones for the legendary band's 27 UK and US #1 hits, exclusively on iTunes. The 27 chart-toppers are also showcased on The Beatles 1. The album made its digital debut in September 2011, exclusively on the iTunes Store, bowing at #1 on several iTunes top albums charts around the world, including the US, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands, Mexico, Sweden, Spain, New Zealand, and Greece. 

 The Beatles #1 ringtones

1. "Love Me Do" 15. "Yellow Submarine"
2. "From Me To You" 16. "Eleanor Rigby"
3. "She Loves You" 17. "Penny Lane"
4. "I Want To Hold Your Hand" 18. "All You Need Is Love"
5. "Can't Buy Me Love" 19. "Hello, Goodbye"
6. "A Hard Day's Night" 20. "Lady Madonna"
7. "I Feel Fine" 21. "Hey Jude"
8. "Eight Days a Week" 22. "Get Back"
9. "Ticket to Ride" 23. "The Ballad of John and Yoko"
10. "Help!" 24. "Something"
11. "Yesterday" 25. "Come Together"
12. "Day Tripper" 26. "Let It Be"
13. "We Can Work It Out" 27. "The Long and Winding Road"
14. "Paperback Writer"

Bruce Springsteen: Childhood inspired music

Bruce Sprinsteen says that his childhood inspired his music. The rocker explained that he grew up in a household that was filled with tension because of his father's unemployment The Born In The USA star praised his mother for striving to support the family, but said his upbringing left a mark on him nonetheless.  My experience growing up was that my mother was the primary breadwinner, she worked very hard every day. My father struggled to find work and I saw that was deeply painful and created a crisis of masculinity. Lack of work creates a loss in itself. Work creates an enormous sense of self. I saw this in my mother, she was an inspiring figure to me,' he told British newspaper The Mirror. 'A house can turn into a minefield, it can be abusive in different ways and have tremendous emotional turmoil. I kind of lost him and I think a lot of the anger that surfaced in my music came out of that particular scene. I'm motivated by the issues of the day, but ultimately for the reason I ask questions, go back to the house I was brought up in. Bruce is currently promoting his new album Wrecking Ball, which he says is an attack on 'fat bankers' and 'robber barons'. Despite a hugely successful career in music, the 62-year-old explained that his working class background never leaves him and forces him to continuously look at social influences.

Journey drummer ordered toattend anger management

Deen Castronovo, drummer for Journey, has received his sentence in a January 31 domestic incident. Castronovo has been ordered to perform eighty hours of community service and attend anger management classes in an agreement between the drummer and Polk County (OR) prosecutors. The original charges included assault in the 4th degree, criminal mischief in the 2nd degree, harassment, coercion and interfering with making a report. Castronovo was having an altercation with his ex-girlfriend when neighbors called the police and, later, grabbed the phone away from her when she tried to call her father. Castronovo has played on albums from a multitude of artists including Bad English, Ozzy Osbourne, Steve Vai and Social Distortion. He has been on all five of Journey's albums released since 2000.

Rihanna's friends 'against Brown reunion'

Rihanna's friends are trying to keep her from reuniting with Chris Brown, it has been reported. The pair appear to have rekindled their romance after exchanging messages on Twitter and even reportedly spending Valentine's Day together. They split three years ago after Chris physically attacked Rihanna and was subsequently charged with felony battery. However, Rihanna is believed to still be harbouring feelings for him and is considering reigniting the romance ' even though her loved ones are against the idea. 'Chris Brown and Rihanna are dangerously close to getting back together. but the singers' friends are desperately trying to keep them apart... for their own good,' reports TMZ. 'According to sources, Rihanna is still head over heels for Chris. Now, sources tell us, Rihanna and Chris' friends are terrified they'll get back together - and they're doing everything they can to prevent a possible reunion.' However, Rihanna and Chris are refusing to listen to any advice and seem to be determined to get back together. Their friends are feeling frustrated but don't think they can do anything to stop them. On Monday Chris took to this Twitter account to publicly wish Rihanna a happy birthday. Earlier this week the pair simultaneously released remixes of tracks featuring each other.

Britney Spears 'interested in The X Factor'

Britney Spears is eager to be an X Factor judge to show she's 'back to her best'. The singer has reportedly told Simon Cowell she would love to appear on the US version of the talent programme, following the departure of previous judges Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul The 30-year-old star has been in the business for well over ten years and thinks her knowledge would serve contestants well. She is also said to be excited about the prospect of putting her infamous 2008 meltdown behind her. 'She''s a huge fan of The X Factor and thinks it''s the perfect time for her to be a judge. She wants to show her fans she is back to her best and where better to do that than on national TV every week?' a source told British newspaper The Sun. 'She knows all about the ups and downs of pop fame. And with her schedule relatively clear she has the time to dedicate to a different project.' It's thought Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson and Beyoncé Knowles are also in the running for a spot on the panel. Simon is keen to make the programme as popular as its rival American Idol so is taking his time choosing the judges. It's been suggested Britney could be a shrewd pick as people are so intrigued about her. Although she has been in the limelight over the last few years, she is still the subject of a conservatorship. It means other people, including her father Jamie, make decisions for her. Britney doesn't talk about her private life much and appearing on a TV show could be a way for her to get closer to her fans. Britney has had a tough few years but this would put her back at the very top. She would be great for the show and it could be great for her,' a music professional told the publication.

Amy Lee: I felt pressure to steal

Amy Lee used to steal movie posters from the cinema as she was 'feeling the peer pressure' from friends. The Evanescence star has been confessing to a few small sins in a new interview. Amy has embarrassingly admitted she could be classed as a thief as she used to take advantage of film memorabilia on cinema trips with friends. Actually I have,' she revealed to Kerrang! magazine when asked if she's ever stolen anything. 'When I was younger, me and my friends used to steal movie posters. I didn't even want to do it, but I guess I was feeling the peer pressure. I can't remember which movie posters I even had, but you can bet they weren't good ones!' Amy has also revealed her first memory. The songstress has recalled trying to tame a wasp, which had nasty repercussions. 'I remember being stung by a wasp,' she said. 'I was a toddler and I thought it would be cool to see if I could catch this thing, which I managed because wasps are really quite slow. 'But then it stung me and I remember being shocked by the pain. I went running indoors to my parents, sobbing.' The raven-haired singer also revealed the last time she cried. Amy isn't afraid to show her emotions. 'Last week,' she said. 'I didn't cry about anything in particular, I just tend to cry to release stress. It's kind of like a pressure valve for me.'

Jennifer Lopez's beau 'puts her first'

Jennifer Lopez's boyfriend is doing 'everything possible' to make the relationship work. The singer is currently dating backing dancer Casper Smart following the breakdown of her marriage to Marc Anthony last year. While the romance initially raised eyebrows because Jennifer is older than Casper, those close to the star believe she is serious about the relationship. A source told Chicago Sun-Times that Casper wants to do 'everything possible to make Jennifer's life happy' and he has a 'totally malleable' personality. It has been reported that Jennifer has been lavishing him with expensive gifts such a designer watches and diamond earrings and has given him a complete style makeover. The 42-year-old star is known for jumping into relationships quickly and it's been claimed she is already contemplating tying the knot with her 24-year-old beau. 'Jennifer wants to play Henry Higgins to his Eliza Doolittle, to reverse that old story around,' another insider revealed to the publication. 'But it's important that he be his own man and be totally a man in the bedroom.

Chris Martin considers theme park?

Chris Martin has slammed bands who sell out by joking Coldplay will open a theme park. The rockers were named Best British Group at last night's Brit Awards in the UK and gave an interview about the award following the ceremony. Chris admitted feeling pleased they had triumphed, but also used the opportunity to poke fun at other artists. He singled out pop act JLS, a boy band who rose to prominence after taking part in the UK version of The X Factor. 'Oh, [it means] everything,' he said backstage, according to British newspaper The Mirror. All we want to do now is release a fragrance, open a few restaurants and open a theme park, JLS-style. We're hoping to have it tied up by 2016, look out for that.It wasn't all about jokes though, Chris also showed off the self-depreciating nature he has become famous for. The star insisted Coldplay were only successful last night because so many other great bands are no longer around. The group triumphed in a category which also featured Arctic Monkeys, Chase & Status, Elbow and Kasabian. 'To be honest, most British bands have split up,' Chris said. 'Blur have gone, Pulp have gone, Take That are on holiday, we're the only British band left on the pitch! But we'll take that.'

Fabolous 'spends $45k on champagne'

Rapper Fabolous splashed out on 120 bottles of champagne for his friend's birthday. The hip-hop star has worked with many famous faces in music industry, such as Timbaland, Ne-Yo and Pharrell. Used to the showbiz lifestyle, the 34-year-old decided to inject some glamour into his friend's birthday party over the weekend. A group were celebrating the unknown man's special day at Club Compound in Atlanta on Saturday when Fabolous arranged for the phenomenal amount of Rosé Moët to be delivered to their table. 'Rapper Fabolous got a record number of people wasted last weekend in Atlanta - dropping $45,000 on 120 bottles of champagne at a nightclub... and it was all a favour for his good friend,' reports TMZ. All the stops were pulled out to deliver the drinks. Rather than simply putting them in a bucket and decorating with a napkin, the bottles arrived in a golden carriage. The vehicle is known as a litter and has no wheels ' it is similar to the carriage which carried upper class women around many years ago. It usually boasts four handles coming out of the corners, which are rested on men's shoulders as they carry it along.

Rihanna releases Brown remix

Rihanna and Chris Brown have simultaneously released remixes of tracks featuring each other.
The former couple have caused controversy of late with their reconciliation attempts following their messy break-up three years ago. They ended their romance in 2009 when Chris was charged with felony battery after attacking Rihanna during an argument before the Grammys.
However, in recent weeks the pair appear to have grown close again and have been exchanging messages on Twitter.
And now the stars have tweeted remixed versions of their songs featuring each other's guest vocals. Rihanna posted about Chris' single Turn up the Music with an accompanying video.
'Turn up the music remix #RihannaNavy #Teambreezy enjoy!!! (sic)' she wrote, while a remixed version of Rihanna's Birthday Cake track, featuring Chris, arrived online.
'Its a download OVERLOAD!!!! Working on more links for u guys, so errbody could have some #CAKE (sic),' Rihanna added.
Chris's vocals on the new song feature some crude lyrics.
"Girl I wanna f**k you right now. Been a long time I been missing your body. Lemme, lemme turn the lights down. When I, when I go down it's a private party,' he sings.
The song has since been taken down from various sites.

Chaka Khan: Whitney wanted love

Chaka Khan says Whitney Houston just wanted 'to be loved and to sing'. Whitney died in a Los Angeles hotel on February 11 aged just 48. The iconic singer's passing sent shockwaves around the world, especially amongst her loved ones and those whose lives she had personally touched. Whitney's ex-husband Bobby Brown has been linked to the star's downfall, as she battled drug addiction following her union with him. Chaka ' who has also dealt with her own substance demons - says Whitney's death is especially tragic because it could have been avoided with the right help. 'I performed with her at the Prince concert last May and we had a lovely time backstage together. We sat in my dressing room for hours and hours and talked. We laughed a lot. It's how I want to remember her. All she wanted was to be loved and to sing,' she told the UK edition of OK! magazine. She wanted to give love and to nurture and heal with her voice. We talked about addiction and music and Bobby Brown and everything. 'But Whitney knew that if she was going to talk to me, that we were going to talk about getting her life together. I told her: 'I love you, and I am with you.' That was the last time I saw her.' Chaka says the music industry can be a destructive one, and isn't surprised that people including Whitney and Amy Winehouse become victims. The singer says many stars lead very lonely lives.