Total Biz World

Maynard The Sweet Animal

2013-01-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

Released 20th January 2013

Back with a new single for 2013 Conor Maynard teams up with Wiley for his fourth release from debut album Contrast. But who is he? Total Biz World decided to find out.

Brighton born Conor Maynard is fast becoming the UK's answer to Canadian popstar Justin Bieber. But are they as similar as people expect. Both were discovered online and shot to massive success very quickly showing the World how powerful sites such as YouTube can impact someones career.

Starting his bid for a music career in 2006 Maynard at the age of 14 set up his own YouTube site to upload a cover song called Breathe by fellow British musician Lee Carr. His star began to climb from 2009 when with the help of his rapper friend they recorded and uploaded more videos singing more current songs.

It was when Ne-yo heard his cover of Beautiful Monster where his world would change forever. This later led to Ne-yo bringing him to the attention of a label and quickly became his mentor.

So with an international star on his side Maynard burst on the scene fresh from winning MTV's Brand New for 2012 with the catchy tune of Can't Say No. Reaching the dizzy heights on Number 2 with his debut single release he was the new kid on the block and being just 19 years old he was quickly being compared to other artisits.

It was not until the release of his second single Vegas Girl where his music was being played on the radio and reached number 4 in the charts. Teaming up with Ne-yo on his third single Turn Around was a mega hit with fans.

Debut album Contrast reached Number 1 in the charts selling 17,000 copies in its first week. It is a great album, it sounds very American but its on trend with the music out today. Rita Ora appears on the brilliant song Better Than You. Also Pharrell appears on the R&B inspired Lift Off.

Contrast is a cleverly titled debut album, as Maynard's music is so far removed from a Bieber album. We would have expected a pop album full of tracks aimed at the teen market.

Instead we have a R&B and dance mix with real lyrics that is sure to appeal to the teens but more to the point older music fans can enjoy too. His cover of Wiley's Don't You Worry Child on the Animal EP is fantastic and really shows his singing ability and his ease of appealing to the 'in-crowd'.

Total Biz World may be slightly biased but we think Conor is the real deal, his voice accoustically shows his true talent and he has a massive career ahead of him. He will be around longer than Bieber! What do you think?

Contrast is out now!

http://www.conor-maynard.com/

Shake Your Body With Xtina!

2012-09-18T09:55:00.001-07:00

The Voice is back, and not just on the talent show. The talented Christina Aguilera is making a come back to the UK charts with brand new single Your Body. Along with it is the Xtina we remember from the stripped days but this time with the blonde hair we saw with her Back To Basics image. In the video she is being very sexy, cheeky and a little bit naughty....Welcome back Xtina!

Aguilera on The Voice US

In November her seventh album Lotus is being unleashed, and Total Biz World is very excited!! Are you? The last album Bionic was very under rated, it was a brilliant album! Although it was a little bit too electronic. Her voice is too good to hide behind computerized sounds, the producers should maybe save that for Cheryl albums.....!

Stripped is one of my favourite albums to this day, so I sincerely hope this album matches that era slightly. It was Xtina at her best! I loved Back To Basics as it was a refreshing new sound and image but lets have a bit of angst back please. Her gritty performance in the Burlesque movie showed glimmers of the dirty singer is still in there and was reflected throughout her performance in songs like Express and Tough Lover could have been written for Stripped!

The teasing and cheekyness of I Am A Good Girl would have suited Back To Basics as would the excellent ballad Bound To You. Glimmers of hope that Christina would be back in full force once again came from Burlesque. New album Lotus has a lot to live up to with her previous successes and slight flop with Bionic, but Ms Aguilera will without a shadow of a doubt leave us all wonder where the hell has she been hiding.

Album Lotus out November 2012

New Single 'Your Body'

Katy is a Shining Star!

2012-09-18T09:33:00.003-07:00

After waiting for the Katy Perry film Part of Me to be released on DVD oh so impatiently! It was worth the wait, it was not just a live concert it was the story of how a tour comes together and the dedication an artist needs to have to pull the show together.

I was lucky enough to see Katy live in Manchester Academy shortly after her debut album One For The Boys was released here in the UK. I was already a fan of the album, songs like Fingerprints, Lost and Mannequin had massive impact on me. These album tracks were brilliant and far from album fillers.

One For The Boys Tour 2009

She was a breath of fresh air, pure pop with a naughty twist! Of course it helped that I had not long passed my driving test, it was an amazing car playlist! So as soon as I saw tickets were available I jumped at the chance to see her live.

Her confidence and voice really shone through at the gig in Manchester, and to my surprise she only had one outfit for the entire show, very refreshing! She turned up to our show in kitten heels and a snow white image, black haired bob hair style and snow white figure hugging dress with yellow short sleeves with a smiley face on. Her words "Dont you guys think Im like Snow White....on acid?!"

This was the first time I had seen an american artist up close and personal, and she explained how she wrote the songs with the meaning behind them or in some cases just the story. With this touch she managed to win over the roaring crowd and truly gain fans for life.

Ticket for Manchester Academy 2009

I feel she has done this on a huge scale with release of her movie being released in cinemas. The film contains very personal moments and the demise of her relationship with Russell Brand.

But also it cleverly guides us through the hard work and dedication Katy puts into her tours and her music. The part where we awkwardly had to sit through an emotional break down then she put her brave face on to put the show on for her fans.

Manchester 2009

Her rise to chart domination was a massive struggle. This film shows the total dark side of the music industry through her knock backs in the early days, with record companies wanting her to be someone else to sell records and her determination to stick two fingers up and do it her way.

With every single released all being a huge success it is hard to believe Katy Perry has only released just two albums and succeeded in global pop domination!

There is nobody to compete with in her style and the film really shows how unique and versatile she is. Lets hope her star continues to rise and shine!

Katy live on stage on film

Lady In Red Born To Sing!

2012-09-18T09:21:00.001-07:00

Liverpool Lass Melanie C has released a musical masterpiece in the shape of brand new album Stages. It is the sixth album from Sporty Spice and it is her most vocally sound record to date. The album is inspired by musical theatre and songs that have meant something to Melanie in her life.

This album features a fantastic duet with Emma Bunton on 'I Know Him So Well' from the musical Chess. Its brilliant to hear their voices together on a mid tempo ballad. It reminds me of the Spice Girls Forever album.

I remember Melanie appearing on backing vocals for the b-side track Merry-Go-Round on Emma's debut solo single What Took You So Long single. Also their voices suit really well as they dominated some of the amazing ballads on Forever.

Stand out tracks are Another Hundred People, its uptempo track and its the first time we have heard Melanie singing so fast. Her voice is very strong on this track and its great to hear. The song is about the excitement of city life and its fast pace as described on her website.

Aren't You Kinda Glad We Did is a sparkly ballad about forbidden love, Melanie really suits singing in jazz style. Hopefully a jazz album will be future project? I would love to see her in a smokey jazz club singing this album. Or just a theatre in Manchester would be good :)

Both Sides Now, Something Wonderful and Maybe This Time are all from musicals and they really showcase her range and strength that she has learnt from appearing in Blood Brothers doing 8 shows a week for six months and of course two extra weeks in Liverpool.

I really enjoy listening to this album especially the upbeat tracks like Aint Got No / I Got Life and I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself.

I was excited to hear Tell Me It's Not True from Blood Brother's recorded as I loved hearing this when I was lucky enough to see her in the show in London and Liverpool. It is a great song on the album, but it does not quite capture the raw emotion that she portrayed so brilliantly live on stage.

I personally love the itunes only version of Anything Goes. I just love her voice on this song, I have always been a fan of the song but Melanie takes it to a new level. It was originally written by Cole Porter for his musical Anything Goes in 1934. It has dated lyrics to the present day, but its cheeky story throughout really suits Melanie's playful personality.

Also look out for the single from the album 'I Don't Know How To Love Him' which she will singing live on stage for the arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar from next week.

'Stages' is out now!
Tickets for the JCS Tour are on sale with extra dates added

Spice Girls Forever!

2012-06-29T03:19:00.000-07:00

Girl Power is set to live forever…. In a West End musical called Viva Forever! After selling 75 million records worldwide the Spice Girls are the biggest girl band in history.

Their pure pop sound and story-telling lyrics their songs lend themselves with theatreland. The girls were empowering for women and everyone loved them in their hey day, but are people still interested in hearing the songs in a musical format? Only time will tell.

Total Biz World are excited to discover which songs will be included in the line-up as the story was revealed earlier this week. The obvious mega hits are certain to be included such as Wannabe, Say You’ll Be There and 2 Become 1.

But will they use the hard hitting album tracks such as Naked and Something Kinda Funny from the debut album? They were fan favourites on the early tours and surely lend themselves to a story on the stage.

Popular favourites from Spice are Last Time Lover and Love thing.

From Spiceworld we hope Spice Up Your Life and Too Much are included. Also our favourites with a celebrity theme would be the cool Denying, Headlines and Saturday Night Divas.

The first two albums seem ideal for the musical but will they include the Forever album? Of course I feel the main theme to the Spice Girls musical will be the massive hit Viva Forever!

So what’s the story?

From the award-winning writer and comedienne Jennifer Saunders (Absolutely Fabulous, French & Saunders), and Judy Craymer, producer of the worldwide smash-hit musical MAMMA MIA!, comes VIVA FOREVER!, a wonderfully joyous contemporary musical about the value of friendship in the face of fame and fortune!

As one girl follows her dreams, VIVA FOREVER! charts her journey into the world of overnight celebrity and its impact on her mother, and the friends she thought she’d have forever. From London to Spain and back again, as the world judges you, it’s all about who you really are and who you want to be, whatever the cost.

Spice up your life with this exhilarating and irresistibly funny tale of love, loyalty and romance. An original story of our times, inspired by the songs of the Spice Girls, VIVA FOREVER! hits all the high notes for a fabulous feel-good night out.

Iconic BRITs performance

Tickets are on sale now! Previews are starting at the Piccadilly Theatre, London West End from 27^th November 2012. The Spice Girls Musical, Viva Forever officially launches from December 11^th 2012 and booking as far as June 2013.

Geri Lands X Factor Judge Role

2012-05-22T03:49:00.003-07:00

Could Geri Halliwell be the new permanent judge on X Factor this year? The former Spice Girl is joining the panel at the first auditions in Liverpool as a guest. But rumours are saying she is on a trial run to see how popular she is before she lands the role from the boot camp rounds.

Geri has appeared as a guest judge before but was not well received the first time round due to some catty comments. However she is older and wiser this time around and was very popular in her judge role on Popstars: The Rivals where she helped hand pick Girls Aloud back in the day.

Total Biz World are very excited about a Spice Girl becoming a permanent judge, as Gary Barlow is officially back on the panel this year. So two members from the biggest girl band and boy band of the 90's will be a force on the show this year. Added with the annoying Louis Walsh and there is Tulisa of course.....

After Dannii turned down a million pound deal to spend time with her family, we feel the X Factor bosses wanted an older figure head to fit the bill last year. As two young cubs last year causes conflict between Tulisa and Kelly Rowland.

Murs and Flackers returning to Xtra Factor

Caroline Flack and Olly Murs have been confirmed to be coming back the ITV2 Xtra Factor this year after massive ratings last year.

Geri may have some tough competition though, as Mel B is set to join the panel as a guest judge at the Manchester auditions. Mel is a judge on the Australian X Factor and had huge success there.

Harsh judge - Mel B

All X Factor needs this year is a little bit of Spice.....

Cheryl Pops in at Shrek The Musical

2012-05-22T03:31:00.003-07:00

Cheryl Cole jetted into London from France yesterday to support here Girls Aloud bandmate.

Cheryl was in Cannes but flew in to visit her pal Kimberley Walsh in her final performance in the West End where she has been starring as Princess Fiona in Shrek The Musical.

She has been playing the role since last September and was delighted three of her Girls Aloud co-stars were able to watch her bow out.

Joining Cheryl in the theatre were Nicola Roberts and Sarah Harding, and as usual Nadine Coyle was absent from the mini reuniuon. Which still makes us wonder if an anniversary get together will actually happen.

Kimberley tweeted: "Today is a very exciting day. Cannot thank you all enough for your UNBELIEVABLE support over the past 8 months. Very overwhelmed! #1showtogo."

And ever the true superstar Cheryl only arrived during the interval.... the girls looked happy to see each other as they posed for pics.

With a new single from Miss Cole due to drop on 18th June she will be keen to appear in the papers at any given opportunity until then.

Stenson Takes Over.....

Carly Stenson (from Hollyoaks) will be taking over the role that Kimberly Walsh has played so brilliantly. With a glorious stint in Legally Blonde, Carly has done the leg work to land this lead role and audiences are very excited to see her take on this mighty female lead. Good Luck Carly!!

Jodie Harsh X Melanie C

2012-05-01T04:33:00.003-07:00

Melanie C is teaming up with the hottest DJ around Jodie Harsh. After working together last year they came up with three dance tracks. Their collaboration has now come to light after the announcement of their 3 track EP entitled 'The Night'.

Fans of Melanie will be delighted to hear three dance tracks, not since the Ibiza sound of 'I Turn To You' have we heard Melanie's vocals rocking the clubs. She teased us with the upbeat and playful single 'Think About It'.

The tracks featuring on the 'The Night' EP are called 'Set You Free', 'Sunrise' and 'Walkaway'.

'The Bit About Jodie'

Jodie Harsh, is the most striking DJ in London she is an icon in hot-pink lipstick and is fast becoming the reigning Queen of international nightlife.

Over the last few years, Jodie has become established as a prominent guest DJ who has been found spinning records at Fashion Week parties, showbiz bashes and clubs around the UK, America and Europe.

Jodie's house and electro sets have taken the DJ to New York, Milan, Russia and Ibiza, and she is now a resident DJ for Manumission after embarking on a world tour this summer. Ibiza welcomes Jodie with open arms as she has played with The Swedish House Mafia at Pacha.

Melanie C's website describes the tracks:

Set You Free
The lead track introduces the EP with light dub-set moments and thrusts into full-on hands in the air synths and a tight kick drum. Through big anthemic vocals Melanie sings about the freedom you feel in that perfect dance floor moment - blinded by lights, drowning in the music, feeling the love from your friends.

Sunrise
It's immediately apparent this song is inspired by nights out in Ibiza. The track boasts a big room sound with a killer beat and chopped up vocals. Girl meets boy, dances the night away, boy looks just as great in the sunlight the following day. A holiday romance and a real peak-time dance floor moment.

Walkaway
Taking things a little slower, the final song narrates the organic end to a relationship and the weight it brings off your shoulders... a sigh of relief and a 'change of atmosphere'. Mid-tempo and orchestral, it's a dramatic ending to the EP with it's big hip hop drum and an epic build.

The Night is released on iTunes Sunday 13th May as a 3-track download plus digital booklet featuring song lyrics and exclusive images of Melanie shot by world renowned fashion photographer Tim Bret-Day.

2012-05-01T04:24:00.003-07:00

SMASH is a new American musical drama based on the life of Marilyn Monroe. It is based around the creation of a new Broadway production and is being dubbed the adult version of Glee.

The new production loosely named Marilyn later evolves into the new musical being named Bombshell after the workshop process. As the production takes shape everyone involved has to balance their chaotic personal lives with the demands of musical theatre. It shows a real insight into the hard work that goes on behind the scenes on Broadway.

Series one has just 15 episodes, and the show has already been signed up to make a second series. It has had huge success in America and is being well received in the UK.

With a amazing cast featuring in Smash its sure to be a global success. Debra Messing, from Will & Grace fame plays Julia Houston. A successful lyricist and Bombshell's co-writer.

Also Anjelica Huston stars as Eileen Rand, the musical's producer, she is dealing with divorce proceedings from her husband which adds drama to the programme and her conflicts with him could threaten the future of Bombshell.

Stealing the show though are the amazing talents of Katharine McPhee as Karen Cartwright and Megan Hilty as Ive Lynn. Both competing to play the lead role of Marilyn. They both bring different elements of the character to their performances and throughout the running of Smash they each play the role in various workshops leaving us to decide which girl we like.

Adding to the mix Smash features cameo roles from huge stars such as Uma Thurman, Nick Jonas and Bernadette Peters.

The music of Smash is fantastic, using current songs to coincide with the story adding more depth to the drama. Songs that feature include Adele's Rolling In The Deep, and Red Neck Woman, also listen out for the brilliant episode where Karen and Ivy sing Rihanna's Drink To That in Times Square.

Also the amazing songs written especially for the show about Marilyn Monroe are superb. Our favourites are 'Let Me Be Your Star' and 'Mr & Mrs Smith'.

Catch Smash on Sky Atlantic, Saturdays 10pm

Meet The Canadian Idol Storming The Global Charts

2012-05-01T04:16:00.002-07:00

Canadian Carly Rae Jepson has stormed the UK charts with her smash hit 'Call Me Maybe' but where has this talent come from? Total Biz World decided we should find out more!

The 26 year old star was discovered on Canadian Idol, after finishing third back in 2007 she then toured Canada with the Idol top three contestants.

Carly recorded her debut album Tug of War and released her first single on June 16, 2008. It was a cover of John Denver's song 'Sunshine On My Shoulders'. It is the only cover on her album which shows she is also a brilliant song writer.

2nd Album - Curiosity

Using the power of Myspace, Jepson later added two new songs to her profile page, 'Bucket' and 'Heavy Lifting'. This created a buzz for her next single release.

Finishing in third place meant that sheer hard work and determination was needed for Carly to succeed, so she quickly realised the Internet was the best way to publicise herself. Releasing her videos and album previews online to her Myspace.

So three years after Canadian Idol, Jepson is now signed to a new record label and has bagged herself a new manager, Scooter Braun. He also managed fellow canadian star Justin Bierber.

2012 saw the release of second album 'Curiosity'. This album features the massive hit 'Call Me Maybe'. This song became the first by a Canadian artist to hit the top of the digital charts since Justin Bierber's 'Baby' in January 2010.

'Call Me Maybe' is her biggest hit to date, and after reaching number one on her home ground, she has also reached the top of the charts here in the UK, Ireland and Australia.

Carly on Canadian Idol

Search is on to find Jesus!

2012-03-12T04:38:00.000-07:00

Andrew Lloyd Webber has joined forces with ITV1 this time around in his search for a new musical star. The mission is to find a new star to play the fantastic role of Jesus in new rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar.

It will not be appearing in a prestigious West End theatre, instead the task is to find a rock star with a voice that can fill an arena! Its a very exciting concept, and it is bringing something different to the talent show format. With its move from BBC to ITV it is clear that the show will have more of an appeal when it hits the screens this summer.

So with a new show and broadcasting on a brand new channel Lloyd Webber has enlisted the help of a celebrity panel. Joining forces will be Melanie C and Jason Donovan, with the expert help of casting agent David Grindrod to find the Next Best Superstar!

Jason Donavan has had massive success in stage shows, having recently appeared in West End smash hit Priscilla and having a lead role in Sound of Music year. Melanie C has the rock edge and the voice to know what she is looking for in a rock star. Also Melanie brings with her to the panel her hugely successful experience appearing in Blood Brothers in the West End.

Looking forward to seeing how the panel get on finding a new star for the big stage!

Glitter & Gold Aint No Chore

2012-02-22T11:09:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe Rebecca Ferguson is only about to release her 2nd single on March 4th. Too Good To Lose is an upbeat song ready to set the charts alight. Since the X Factor Rebecca has taken the time out to write her album and juggling her other full time job, being a full time Mum to her two children.

Her debut album Heaven was released in December 2011 is the fastest selling record from a talent show contestant so far. She has even outsold Matt Cardle's debut album Letters in just so little time.

Her talent is under estimated and after seeing Miss Ferguson live on tour she has only just begun to let her talent unfold before our eyes. Her album sales are surely going to rise as her 16 date sold out tour is in full swing.

Heaven is our favourite album from an X Factor contestant as it comes with honest and heartfelt lyrics and mesmerising melodies. Rebecca slots in perfectly where Duffy has left off with her soothing yet haunting vocals at times. She bursts with passion and determination throughout this debut masterpiece!

Total Biz World caught Rebecca at her pre-tour shows in Sunny Wales. Check out the review below.

Heaven Live: Rebecca Ferguson Tour Review

Don't forget Too Good To Lose is released March 4th with a B-side On & On.

Second single released March 4th 2012

Oh My Goodness Olly!

2012-02-01T03:46:00.000-08:00

Listen up Olly fans, get ready for the news about the next single from our favourite cheeky chappy. Mr Murs has announced he will be releasing his third single from the Number one album 'In Case You Didn't Know.

'Oh My Goodness' will be released on 1st April 2012! We are very happy Olly is releasing this song as its one of the best tracks on the new album.

The single follows hot on the heels of previous releases 'Heart Skips A Beat' featuring Rizzle Kicks and the brilliant 'Dance With Me Tonight'.

We can reveal there will be a fantastic new track as a b-side with the new release called 'Don't Say Goodnight Yet'.

Last month Olly filmed the video for 'Oh My Goodness' at Westfield Shopping Centre in Stratford. Filming the video overnight Olly describe the shoot as "tiring, but so much fun".

Olly kicks off his first headlining arena tour tonight in Cardiff! He is proving that even if contestants do not win the X Factor they can still go on to have a successful career in music.

The hard working essex boy is up for Best Single at this years BRITs for 'Heart Skips A Beat'. Things are just getting better for Olly as it has just been revealed he will be performing at the BRIT Awards on the night. Alongside other established artists such as Coldplay, Florence and the Machine, Blur and Adele.

You can vote for Olly to win Best Single below. Voting closes at 12pm on 17th February 2012.

CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR OLLY AT THE BRITS

Molly Aint No Dolly!

2012-01-31T09:25:00.000-08:00

Watch out folks, the mighty Molly McQueen is back on the scene!

After re-discovering Molly McQueen the Total Biz World office has been blaring out the 2006 single 'No Sleep 2Nite'. Best known as being on the soundtrack on the smash movie starring Uma Thurman, 'My Super Ex-Girlfriend'.

Brit Chick McQueen

So where has McQueen come from? Back in 2005 it was the year Girl Bands were popping up everywhere with a new 'rocky image' that failed to set the charts alight. Molly was the lead singer in rocky girl band 'The Faders' they fought off strong competition from 'Twenty First Century Girls' that year and 'The Faders' went on to release two successful singles. One being 'No Sleep Tonight' and the other 'Jump'.

Today, 24 year old London girl Molly McQueen is making her debut solo album after a rocky ride to her music career. Having left her girl band days firmly behind her, Molly has been hard at work making a living as a Singer / Song writer.

When McQueen signed to Sony back in 2007 it was her talent for writing songs that became her niche. Her talent also forced her rose coloured glasses to become clear, learning how harsh the music industry can be.

The early years....

As she was no stranger to failure after being dropped with 'The Faders' and later being released from a year long solo deal with Innocent Records we are sure this made for some excellent angst when writing her own material!

After a successful writing session for her own debut album a song she had co-written was recorded by another artist. This song was 'Perfect Circle' recorded by Katie Melua for her 2007 album 'Pictures'.

During 2007 Molly finished writing, recording and producing her first two songs. She later used the power of the internet and the mighty Myspace to upload her songs ready for her fans to hear. These were 'Psycho Gorgeous' and 'You Are Not The One'.

'Pyscho Gorgeous' was a huge hit with Myspace users and was later given the remix treatment from 'Future Freaks' and Molly McQueen became a Dancing Queen. The dance track was massive in the UK and Europe and reached number 10 in the dance charts.

Twilight fans may know the song 'Kiss By The Book' used in the new Breaking Dawn film, this features Molly in a duet with Sandy Nuttgens.

Molly still uses Myspace and uploads new songs to her site along with pictures and blogs. She now also has a Twitter account. Be sure to follow her if not only for her banter between herself and her mother.

Our favourite song in the TBW office is the addictive DIY. Check this out on Myspace!

Success comes with hard work and McQueen has been writing and recording with Sony. After waiting in the wings for so long she is ready to be unleashed!

Video Alerts! Check out the old favourite The Faders debut below and the hit song Psycho Gorgeous.

Molly can be found on myspace and twitter:
http://www.myspace.com/mollymcqueen
Twitter: @Molly_McQueen

Melanie C has confirmed that Molly McQueen will be her support act for The Sea Live 2012 in February and March! With an extra date in Brighton just added and some dates tickets are still available, grab you tickets quickly as some dates are sold out! I caught Melanie at the Liverpool date in December and she was amazing! The Sea is her best album so far, and you have to hear it live - Scotty (TBW)

The Faders 'No Sleep Tonight'

'Psycho Gorgeous' - Molly McQueen - Original

Little Mix Of Chart Success!

2012-01-26T13:46:00.000-08:00

Little Mix are the first group to win the X Factor, and they are the most exciting winner since Alexandra Burke won in 2008!

Bursting with massive potential Little Mix are set to be the next big Girl Band the UK has been waiting for since Girls Aloud. Bringing a whole new attitude and a sweet swagger to the charts, there is absolutely no doubt that with the right song choices and image these girls are going to a success.

I was disappointed at first with the choice of song for their first release, but Cannonball showcases all their voices allowing us to get know them as individuals. Its the glimmer of magic from their performance of En Vogue's classic 'Don't Let Go' that seals Little Mix as pure gold!

So its no surprise to me they chose this song to perform at last nights National Television Awards. It was their first live telly performance since winning the X Factor. They were on form vocally, as they have been busy preparing for the upcoming X Factor tour next month.

Although Little Mix still have not met the mighty record boss Simon Cowell, they are planning a late spring album release. Hot on their heels they are wasting no time to start work on their eagerly anticipated debut.

There are rumours that there will be duets with Jessie J and also with their mentor Tulisa. If the rumours are true this will be sure to set them apart from previous winners.

It is unlikely they will be as huge as the Spice Girls, but surely if these girls work hard they should develop their own path to chart success.

JLS Proud To Sing Charity Single!

2012-01-26T13:12:00.000-08:00

JLS are doing their bit for charity this year, the boys are the most charitable band in pop! This time around they have chosen to release a song called Proud for the Sport Relief Charity and will be available from 18th March 2012. Listen to the brilliant ballad below.

However they are not content with just a single the JLS's boys are due to perform a special charity concert in the afternoon of 24th March 2012 at London's O2 Arena! Joining them on stage will be a whole host of stars including the likes of Mr Olly Murs and Rizzle Kicks.

For more information about the event and how to book your tickets head on over to the Sport Relief Official Website now. Tickets also available from gigsandtours.com and ticketmaster.co.uk

Swagger vs Sexy

2011-11-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

An exciting chart battle is about to commence from November 7th. It will be a massacre in the pop charts as pop's chav takes on a boyband.

Cher Lloyd releases her debut album fresh from last years Xfactor success. Titled Sticks And Stones and featuring her number one hit Swagger Jagger and the new single with Mike Posner, With Ur Love.

Its set to be a tough fight for the top spot as the mighty boyband The Wanted unleash their second album titled Battleground.

The Wanted seem to be the strongest contender as they have three tracks that have stormed the singles chart on this album. Starting with Gold Forever, Glad You Came and the brand new smash hit Lightning.

Also a key indicator is how many followers each has on Twitter, Cher Lloyd ( @CherLloyd ) has a respectable 662,701 and The Wanted have 228,809 followers. However each band member also has their own twitter accounts.

So with Cher having more followers than The Wanted she is surely set to beat the lads in the album charts? One thing for sure is this pop battleground is about to get exciting, swagger vs sexy! Let the battle commence!

Below is a Twitter Top Five of The Wanted's individual fan following.

1. Max has 266,811 followers. @MaxTheWanted
2. Nathan has 242,533 followers @NathanTheWanted
3. Tom has 202,216 followers. @TomTheWanted
4. Jay has 180,059 followers @JayTheWanted
5. Siva has 167,315 followers @SivaTheWanted

The Wanted released their 2nd Album Battleground November 7th!

Debut abum from Xfactor's Cher Lloyd! Released 7th November

Take A Chance on JLS!

2011-11-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

As the nights are drawing in, winter is fast approaching! Therefore the ballads are coming out in force, time to dust off your big winter coat and take a chance on the new JLS song.

Its a slow number called Take A Chance On Me. Its the perfect winter mid-tempo ballad. It reminds me of Blue's track If You Come Back, simply from the time of year it is released and the cold London background in the videos.

This song is heavily Aston led on vocals, but it really works this time. Also JB gets a lead vocal, that is fantastic! It really brings a new feel to the music. The only thing missing from this song is there is less Marvin. However all JLS fans will love this song, and it will be a massive hit on the radio.

On Sunday's Xfactor results show the JLS boys will be performing this track. Back to where they started, proving that you don't necessarily have to win the Xfactor to be successful. The lads are about to release their third album this month and due to start an arena tour in March 2012.

Released November 7th on iTunes

Britney On Tour!

2011-11-02T06:03:00.000-07:00

Britney Spears is currently touring the UK with her Femme Fatale show. The superstar is also making a few friends along the way...

Before we get into who the star has been mixing with in the UK, a little bit about the show that is storming the nation! With the UK finally getting a chance to see the new show it is a great pleasure to reveal that Britney is actually singing live and dancing!

After catching the circus tour I was extremely disappointed that singing live was not the main feature of that show. Femme Fatale is seemingly her best tour since the Ooops Tour according the massive Britney fans.

The hits include Womaniser, Criminal, I Wanna Go and Til The World Ends. Obviously huge songs like Baby One More Time and Gimme Gimme are also included. Catch her live if you can! So on with the meet and greets....

Firstly she met the unique quirky duo, Jedward! The lads are massive fans of Britney so she invited them onstage with her to perform I Wanna Go. It was a fun performance and a real crowd pleaser.

Then last night Britney invited hot boyband The Wanted to her Wembley show and met them backstage. They hit it off so much that she has asked them to open her Manchester show at the weekend. I'm sure the boys have jumped at the chance to meet Britney again. Its a massive boost for the The Wanted as they are releasing a new album very soon!

Not content with just meeting popstars Britney took a trip to the West End to see new musical Rock Of Ages. Mainly tweeting about the joy of meeting Britney was Mr Shayne Ward, his delight of finally meeting the pop sensation really shines in his picture with her. Also check out the group shot below.

So Britney has been totally networking this week meeting and greeting Britain's hot property in the showbiz world. I wonder who will be next....form an orderly queue popstars!

Amy's Final Goodbye

2011-10-31T06:16:00.000-07:00

New material from the late Amy Winehouse is about to be released in December. News of this release comes just months after the tragic singers death at the age of 27.

The new album will be called Lioness: Hidden Treasures. It will include a slower version the Mark Ronson re-working of Valerie and will include a heartbreaking track about the cheating antics ex-husband Blake.

A surprise for me is they have include a song recorded when tragic Amy was under the influence of heroin. I don't think this should have been allowed to feature as it takes away some of the star's sparkle.

However with massive songs such as the Leon Russell track A Song For You, it will be a tough listen for true fans. Amy recorded her own version of this song with just her guitar and in one take.

It will be a haunting experience as you will be able to hear her voice quaking as she tearfully delivers the lyrics. You will be witnessing true talent here and what a shame that she is no longer with us.

An inquest heard last week the Winehouse was five times over the drink-drive limit when she was found dead on her bed by her bodyguard. The main consolation to many fans is that no drugs were found in the singers body, as she was clean from drugs since 2009.

Also included on the album is the final song Amy recorded. That was Body & Soul, recorded with Tony Bennett. The session was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London in March this year,and has been marked from friends and family as one of the happiest times in the stars short life.

This fantastic album from Amy Winehouse is a perfect final goodbye and a tribute to true talent. Released December 5th 2011. From every album sold £1 will go towards the Amy Winehouse Foundation, which is helping children's charities.

Introducing Vida....

2011-10-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

These girls are the UK's next biggest girl band phenomenon. Behind pop girls Parade of course! What makes this lot stand out is they ooze urban swagger and style, they are four girls who share a love for music and a passion for performing. Vida are the ones to watch for early 2012!

Managed by Ortise from JLS the girls are in safe hands, it is the kind of publicity the girl will need to break into the industry, lets just hope it works!

So, who are they? Vida are made of Cat, Che3kz, AJ and Tanisha. This spicy quartet have the same fiesty attitude of the Spice Girls. As they are described to be loud, sassy and outrageous! The charts need an injection of pure attitude at the moment.

Two new tracks that have been unveiled on facebook and on The Sun's website are Dirty Rock n Roll and Boy In The Corner. Both have a distinctive pop sound with an rnb twist.

What makes these ladies different is they have a rapper within the group in the form of Che3kz! Vida are an exciting girl band as they have a very different look, it will be interesting to see how they develop as they stand in the wings waiting to unfold before our very eyes.

Catch the girls biz session with The Sun at the link below!
Vida @ Biz Sessions

For more information and to follow the girls on Facebook and Twitter, hit the links:

http://www.vidaofficial.com

www.twitter.com/vidaofficial

www.facebook.com/vidaofficial

Miss Independent Back Stronger Than Ever!

2011-10-24T09:47:00.000-07:00

Kelly Clarkson is back with brand new album, Stronger. Its been two years since the last album and it is totally worth the wait! With a more grown up sound Miss Clarkson has taken her pop roots and added other influences to make her most diverse album to date.

Stand out tracks are the new single Mr Know It All, which Kelly performed on this weeks X Factor results show (see below) and the fiesty Alone. Songs like Einstein, Let Me Down and Stronger are reminiscent of Kelly's 2007 album My December.

Stronger is fast becoming my favourite record from the American Idol winner, its her strongest album vocally and I love how her country influences have contributed to her sound. Kelly is known for her heartfelt ballad anthems and there are many tracks that follow this angle. So fans old and new will certainly not be disappointed.

My personal favourite songs are the final track The Sun Will Rise, Dont Be A Girl About It and the title track Stronger. After ten years in the music industry since winning her record deal Kelly Clarkson has found her sound and is comfortable with her musical style.

Touring is a massive passion for Kelly, so hopefully a UK arena tour will happen some time next year. Her amazing voice is not to be missed live, catch her if you can!

Look out for Dont Be A Girl About It, it reminds me of Since You Been Gone! Definitely a potential single release! Its a brilliant album and should firmly welcome Miss Independent back into the pop charts with open arms.

Heartbeat Tour Checks In With Liverpool!

2011-10-23T16:09:00.000-07:00

Jessie J arrived in style in Liverpool for her heartbeart tour. Read more of Scott Williams's review in our review section on Total Biz Reviews.....

............Although it was a slow start Jessie J rocked the room and belted out her hits, and fan album favourites! I still have much respect for Jessie as a live performer, her energy and stage presence truly makes her a star.

Her eyes sparkled on stage and she is clearly humble to her fans for their loyal support. This was shown when she signed items the crowd threw to her on stage.

The show highlights for me were my personal favourite song Abracadabra. Jessie's powerful voice and playful stage presence really shone on this track. Mamma Knows Best was brilliant live, and it seemed like a song the lady herself enjoys performing too. Price Tag was a crowd favourite as was Nobody's Perfect.......

http://totalbizreviews.blogspot.com/2011/10/cheap-date-for-jessie-j-in-liverpool.html

The Parade Rollercoaster Is Ready To Rok!

2011-10-06T05:49:00.000-07:00

Parade are riding high on the pop rollercoaster! With two singles under their glittery belts the girls are about to unleash their debut album. Simply titled Parade and is jam packed with 14 poptastic tracks.

Fans of the girls, the Paraders and Paradettes will have heard many of the songs when they hit the road touring with Alexandra Burke and Olly Murs this year.

Aswell as featuring the debut single Louder and Perfume. The album also has fan favourites including Rokstar and Rollercoaster. Parade's debut album is sure to be a pop gem ready to dazzle!

Pre-order the Parade Poptastastic album from 14th November! http://bit.ly/paradesalbum

Parade have shaken up the summer festivals this year bringing a bit of fun and glamour to the muddy trenches. They have been so well received that they are nominated for Best Breakthrought Act at the UK Festival Awards this year!

So don't forget to vote for Parade....right now! Voting closes on 10th October....

http://www.festivalawards.com/vote/

Parade are ready to inject some fun and glamour back into Pop!!

JLS Take A Chance With Jukebox!

2011-10-06T05:24:00.000-07:00

Released 14th November 2011

The JLS boys are unstoppable! With a third album due out and a sold out tour, ready for next year things are hotting up for the jack the lads.

New single from the album is Take A Chance On Me. Its a perfect autumn ballad as the nights are drawing in its the chance to get romantic with this song. Download this future hit from 6th November.

Jukebox is the title for the third offering and also features the smash hit single She Makes Me Wanna, featuring Dev. Also featuring ten brand new tracks, look out for Teach Me How To Dance and Go Harder.

JLS begin their UK tour in Liverpool on 13th March, 2012.

Available 6th November 2011