mjsbigblog

Glee is Back! Check out a Sneak Peek of “Wheels”

mj — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 02:31:59 +0000

After a two week interruption thanks to Major League Baseball, Glee is back on November 11 with a brand new episode. Hurray!

EOnline posted some sneak peeks and I have them embeded just for you, after the jump.

The major plot points have Artie singing a cool, jazzy and poignant “Dancing with Myself” with some pretty fancy wheelchair moves, Kurt and Rachel fighting to sing the lead on “Defying Gravity” and Nerdy Jacob attempting to get to the bottom of Quinn’s sudden ouster from the Cheerios.

Plus, the kids hold a bake sale to raise money to obtain a special wheelchair bus for Artie, and Mr. Shue has the able-bodied gleeksters spending time in a wheelchair to understand Artie’s world.

And, there’s no preview yet, but Mr Shue promises a wheelchair number! Eep!

Videos after the JUMP…

Artie performs “Dancing with Myself” – VIDEO

Mr Shue plans a bake sale to obtain a special bus to accommodate Artie’s wheelchair. Shue orders the Glee kids to spend three hours a day for a week in a wheelchair, and to get ready for a wheelchair number. – VIDEO

Everybody wants to sing “Defying Gravity” – VIDEO

Kurt challenges Rachel to a sing-off. Uh oh – VIDEO

Nerdy Jacob interviews Sue Sylvester in an attempt to get to the bottom of Quinn’s sudden departure from the Cheerios. A great one-liner from Sue! – VIDEO

David Cook – Mix 96.9 Acoustic Set

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 21:00:54 +0000

The David Cook fans have already seen these fine acoustic performances from Tuesday at the Mix 96.9. studios in Phoenix AZ, but in case you missed them, do click the link below. You won’t be sorry.

Cook is in fine form as he performs sweet renditions of “Heroes”, “Lie” and “Mr. Sensitive.” There’s a question and answer session as a bonus. I’m now hoping for an all-acoustic performance from Cookie someday. Watch and enjoy!

David Cook acoustic performance at Mix 96. in Phoenix, AZ. Check it out HERE.

You Tubes after the JUMP…

Heroes

Lies

Mr. Sensitive

Q&A #1

Q&A #2

X Factor – Week 5 Performance – VIDEO

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:50:57 +0000

Tonight’s best performances came from Lucie Jones and Danyl Johnson. And another lulzworthy performance from John and Edward. It’s time for Lloyd Daniels to leave. Hopefully, he gets the boot tomorrow.

Week 5 is Movie Week at X Factor. Check out the performances and my recap after the JUMP…

Videos after the JUMP…

Stacey Soloman – “Son Of A Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield – Stacie sounded lazy and just under pitch through the whole song. The makeover was nice. – VIDEO
Olly Murs – “Twist and Shout” – Wow. Simon sure judges peeps differently across the pond. In the US, Olly would be like your drunk uncle dancing at a wedding, in the UK, it’s a great show and entertainment! I’m not sure where Olly can take his shtick beyond the show, but I like him. He’s fun to watch. - VIDEO
Lloyd Daniels – “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King - Not as dire as last week. But Lloyd and his pitchy, choppy, awkward runs, is really hard to watch. It’s time for him to go. – VIDEO
Jamie Archer – “Cryin”" by Roy Orbison - In earlier rounds, Jamie’s showmanship masked below par vocals. Now, when he’s front and center, and his vocal has to carry the day, the flaws are obvious. The song was way too rangy for him. - VIDEO
Lucie Jones – “This Is Me” by Demi Lovato – When Lucie has the right song, she sounds fresh contemporary and radio ready. Lucie is definitely a contender. - VIDEO
Danyl Johnson – “Purple Rain” by Prince - Danyl hasn’t sounded this good since his audition. Attempting iconic songs like “Purple Rain” is a big risk, and Danyl pulled it off. To quote a cliche, he made the song his own. – VIDEO
John and Edward – “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker – GO JEDWARD! They really, really suck, but I love them! I’d be cool with Stacey, Lloyd, Jamie or Joe going before these guys. They entertain me. – VIDEO
Joe McElderry – “Circle Of Life” by Elton John – Joe is a nice boy with a nice voice. Zzzzz… – VIDEO

Syesha Mercado in Dreamgirls Begins Apollo Theater Previews Tonight

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:49:54 +0000

The national touring company of the musical Dreamgirls, featuring Season 7 Idol, Syesha Mercado as Deena, opens in previews at the Apollo Theater in New York tonight (11/7).

The show officially opens on November 22 and will run until December 12, prior to touring the country.

Check out Syesha and her fellow Dreams strutting their stuff (in costume!) on the Wendy Williams show last week, after the jump.

Video after the JUMP…

Clay Aiken Surprises David Foster Crowd in San Jose, CA

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:11:48 +0000

Clay Aiken sang “Unchained Melody” as a surprise guest at David Foster’s Hitman concert in San Jose California last night (11/06). Foster’s sister, Jaymes is the mother of Clay’s son, Parker Foster Aiken, born in August 2008.

It was nice of Clay to drop by Uncle David’s show!

Also featured in the hitman lineup are Season 2 winner, Ruben Studdard and Season 7 Idol, Michael Johns.

The video is terrible, but the audio is decent…

Kris Allen Performed Acoustic Set at Celebration of Dreams Benefit

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 16:14:00 +0000

Kris Allen performed at the 8th Annual Celebration of Dreams benefit in Santa Barbara, CA last night. The benefit raised funds for the Dream Foundation, a non-profit wish-granting organization for adults with life-threatening illnesses.

Kris tweeted from the gig, “Jeff Bridges offered me $10 to do the moonwalk!” Kris, did you do it? And a twit from this morning, “You really can’t go wrong when k loggins, m macdonald, and Taylor dayne rock the stage.”

That’s Cale Mills, band guitarist and keyboardist, in the photo with Kris. Looks like they served up a sweet acoustic set!

photo: jenniferguesspr

Idol Headlines for 11/07/09

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:06:50 +0000

9 Recordings/Jive Records Taps AOL to Debut Exclusive Kris Allen Content Including Full Album Streaming, Video Premiere and Performance Footage

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–19 Recordings / Jive Records and AOL announced today that AOL will serve as the media hub to launch American Idol champion Kris Allen’s self-titled debut album. AOL sites will debut a myriad of exclusive content offerings including AOL Music Sessions, CD listening party, video premiere and interview. In addition, Allen’s own site will be hosting the “Every Second Counts” contest in which one winner and three friends will be flown to New York City to be part of the AOL Music Sessions.

11/06 – PopEater.com premieres Kris Allen’s “Live Like We’re Dying” music video
11/09 – AOL Music premieres Allen’s self titled debut album
12/15 – Every Second Counts Campaign winner and friends attend AOL Music Sessions taping in New York City
12/22 – AOL Music Sessions with Kris Allen premieres including exclusive performances and interviews

Business Wire

Dreamgirls Begins Previews at the Apollo Theatre Nov. 7

Dreamgirls, the 1981 Motown musical about a girl group on the rise to stardom, returns to New York in a newly-imagined production which bows at Harlem’s Apollo Theatre Nov. 7.

Originally conceived for the stage by the late Michael Bennett, the current production of Dreamgirls features direction and choreography by Robert Longbottom (Side Show, Flower Drum Song, Bye Bye Birdie). The Henry Krieger-Tom Eyen musical also boasts new material and additional choreography by Emmy-nominated hip-hop artist Shane Sparks.

Dreamgirls is set to officially open at the Apollo Nov. 22 and will continue through Dec. 6 prior to embarking on a national tour.

Playbill.com

Kellie Pickler Digs Into ‘Extreme Makeover’

Kellie Pickler has been one of the few ‘American Idol’ contestants to successfully parlay her time on the show into a successful and steady music career. Finding her niche in country music, Pickler — now a star — headed out to Ohio to help Ty Pennington and the ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ (ABC Sunday at 8 PM ET) crew with the task of building a new home for Paralympics gold medalist James Terpenning.

Fancast.com

More Idol Headlines after the JUMP…

Ellen Begs Her Way Onto O Cover

Perseverence has paid off for Ellen DeGeneres, as the quirky talk show host shmoozed, begged and charmed her way onto the cover of Oprah Winfrey’s O Magazine, marking just the second time that Miss Winfrey has shared a cover with another woman. The first? Just someone you might have heard of — First Lady Michelle Obama. Winfrey herself recognizes Ellen’s dedication, saying that she’s “a woman who can make things happen.”

Popeater.com

Review: Kris Allen, the kid’s alright

Kris Allen’s victory over Adam Lambert in May on the eighth season finale of American Idol, not to mention other lop-sided, questionable victories such as Ruben Studdard over Clay Aiken on season two, makes the need for a change in how votes are counted glaringly real. Idol should take a page from Dancing With the Stars, which gives off the appearance of being more trustworthy and above-board, and factor combined percentages of votes from the judges and public and limit the number of times any one person can text in a vote, as Dancing does.

This would keep Idol closer to honest and give edgier (Adam) contestants a chance against cuddlier, bland, teen-friendly ones (Kris).

Miami Herald

Kris Allen’s ‘Live Like We’re Dying’ Video: His Time, His Show

Not, you know, metaphorically or anything like that. It’s basically the plot of his brand-new video for “Live Like We’re Dying,” the first single from his self-titled debut disc (due November 17). Time — here represented by a constantly diminishing digital clock located somewhere near an abandoned housing complex in the middle of the desert (no word if the Bluth Company put it there) — is eternally fleeting, and as such, we should live without fear or regret. Or, if you will, like we’re dying.

MTV

Kris Allen’s ‘Live Like We’re Dying’ video: You digging it?

The all-Idols-all-the-time American Idol off-season continues today with PopEater’s world premiere of Kris Allen’s “Live Like We’re Dying” video, a luxe-looking, moodily lit affair that finds the season 8 champ clad in a physique-appropriate black henley* and stalking his way through an abandoned construction site featuring a giant countdown clock, a dramatic sunrise, and copious amounts of recycled plastic sheeting. (Kris = Good for the environment! As if we didn’t already know.)

Entertainment Weekly

Adam Lambert Talks New Album

His first single from his debut album For Your Entertainment is already climbing the charts, but Adam Lambert isn’t about to rest on his laurels anytime soon.

“I’m really excited,” the American Idol runner-up tells TV Guide Magazine. “Then I realize no one’s heard the album yet so the pressure is kind of scary.” Luckily, Lambert promises his 14-track disc, due out November 23, is diverse enough to appeal to all music fans.

TV Guide Magazine

‘2012′ Stars John Cusack, Amanda Peet Talk Adam Lambert’s ‘Miracles’

Tuesday night, at the Los Angeles red-carpet premiere for “2012″ — that most disastrous of all disaster movies — Adam Lambert told reporters that he feels honored to have contributed “Time for Miracles” to the film’s soundtrack. So how do the film’s stars feel about it?

“I love him,” Amanda Peet told MTV News of the “American Idol” runner-up. “I love him. I love him.”

John Cusack, meanwhile, was less honored than amusingly confused when asked about the man known as Glambert. “I have no clue,” he confessed. “No, I’ve seen ‘American Idol.’ They have the guy, Dr. Sanjay Gupta. He was on that, right? Anderson Cooper won a few times.”

MTV

Danny Gokey debuts new single ‘It’s Only’: What do you think?

Danny-Gokey_lAmerican Idol second runner-up (and wearer of questionable eyeglasses) Danny Gokey debuted his new song, “It’s Only,” on Milwaukee radio station FM 106.1 today. The track, which is the lead single of Gokey’s upcoming RCA Nashville country album, was reportedly written by Lady Antebellum’s Dave Haywood and Charles Kelley and produced by Carrie Underwood collaborator Mark Bright. Sounding a little like Five for Fighting (at least in my opinion), “It’s Only” is a big, emotional ballad and definitely the type of tune Gokey fans wanna hear.

Entertainment Weekly

Carrie Underwood writes more on new album “Play On”

Carrie Underwood’s got the write stuff for new album Underwood co-wrote seven of 13 titles on her New album, ‘Play On’

Between the No. 1 hits and the TV appearances, the magazine covers and the red carpet fashions, music fans can be forgiven for forgetting that country superstar Carrie Underwood was once an aspiring journalist.

But the credits for her new album “Play On” serve as a pointed reminder that the Oklahoma native was sharpening her pen long before she won “American Idol” in 2005.

“I got a lot of practice writing in general, especially in college. You know, in high school I wrote for the school paper, in college I wrote for the school paper, and was always busy writing stories,” she said in a September press conference at her Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame induction in Muskogee.

Underwood, 26, co-wrote seven of the 13 songs on “Play On,” her third album. She helped pen four tracks on her second record, 2007’s “Carnival Ride,” and one on her 2005 debut “Some Hearts.”

NewsOK.com

Carrie Underwood comes out of her shell

Carrie Underwood, 26, is a big, fat onion. And if you don’t believe it, you can ask her.

“I’m a big, fat onion,” she said. And by that, she means she is a multi-layered person, not that she grows in the soil or induces crying jags.

Since winning American Idol in 2005, Underwood has become one of contemporary country’s most celebrated female vocalists, notching three consecutive top female vocalist prizes at the Country Music Association Awards — for which she’ll serve as co-host with Brad Paisley on Wednesday — and also at the Academy of Country Music Awards. On Tuesday, Nov. 3, Sony Music Nashville released the reigning ACM entertainer of the year’s third album, Play On, and after its first week it will likely top the country charts and the pop charts.

Tennessean.com

Kellie Pickler Helps Family in Need

Don’t miss Kellie Pickler’s appearance on this weekend’s episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Sunday on ABC at 8 p.m. Eastern. Kellie went to Beavercreek, Ohio and helped the James Terpenning family. James is a wheelchair sports champion and also mentors disabled Iraqi War veterans.

While in Beavercreek, Kellie performed and even got in on the demolition action, wielding a sledgehammer like a pro.

GAC TV

Eight Minutes With Kellie Pickler

That’s all the time she had, but I wasn’t going to let that stop me from asking Kellie Pickler every single question I had about her appearance this Sunday (Nov. on ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. And then some. Luckily, I talk fast and she talks even faster. She called me from Nashville, and we jammed as many Qs and as we could into our allotted time.

CMT.com

Kellie Pickler Goes Red

Kellie Pickler seems to have shed her cutesy blond tresses in favor of reddish-brown. In the video above, she is seen congratulating Laurie DeYoung on her introduction into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame.

Of people who resent the change, Pickler says, “It’s just hair! Some people don’t even have hair. So, while I have my hair, I’m going to play with it and experiment with it. When you get people that are just like, ‘Oh my gosh, you’re so much better as a blonde,’ it’s like where are your priorities?”

Country Standard Time

David Cook, the ‘American Idol’ winner, performs at Table Mountain

David Cook is part of an exclusive club — one that comes with 30 million potential fans and alums such as Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

He’s an “American Idol” winner, and there are only seven others like him.

Cook — who performs a sold-out show Thursday night at Table Mountain Casino — has fared pretty well to this point in his post-“Idol” career.

Fresno Bee

Concert Review: Daughtry plays arena-friendly rock in A.C.

ATLANTIC CITY – In retrospect, it makes sense that Chris Daughtry gained his fame through a TV show watched by millions.

Daughtry’s music is the most mainstream type of hard rock imaginable, but he supplements it with well-crafted pop-rock songs that he sings very well. He is good-looking and his music doesn’t have an edge that would scare off some women, who were out in abundance during his eponymous band’s sold-out show Friday at the Mark G. Etess Arena in the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort.

Press of Atlantic City

Hicks featured in ‘Grease’: Taylor-made for the stage?

Before making his Broadway debut last year in the eternally popular musical Grease, Taylor Hicks had never acted. But for the musician and Season 5 American Idol winner, every opportunity is a chance to keep up with fans and gain some new ones.
“It’s imperative for me to stay out there and work,” the 33-year-old singer explains, in his polite, distinctive Alabama drawl. “I’ve been living out of a suitcase for four years. This is one of the things I love to do. Later, it’ll all settle down.”

PBPulse.com

Alec Mapa Hosts Concert Benefiting LifeWorks

“America’s Gaysian Sweetheart” Alec Mapa (Ugly Betty, Desperate Housewives) will host Pop Goes the World, an evening of music and dance,at the newly renovated Avalon in the heart of Hollywood, on Nov. 11.

The concert benefits LifeWorks, a Center program that helps LGBTQ youth achieve their personal and professional goals through mentoring from specially trained LGBT adults.

Performers slated for Pop Goes the World include Jojo; American Idol’s Blake Lewis; director and performer Kevin Stea; musical artist Guy B; singer/producer Kyle Puccia; original member of the Pussycat Dolls Carmit Bachar; and Fanny Pack.

Lagaycenter

Jedward vow to KO X Factor supremo Simon Cowell with Ghostbusters routine

TERRIBLE twins John and Edward plan to spook Simon Cowell with a performance to make him eat his words.

The 18-year-old Dubliners last night boasted that their performance of Ghostbusters would be their most outrageous X Factor offering yet.

And they are confident they will make Cowell – who has threatened to leave thecountry if the public make them winners – admit they have the X Factor.

Edward has told friends: “We want to make Simon eat humble pie and prove to him we can sing. We have come so far in the competition and we don’t want it to end now.”

Daily Record.co.uk

Good News: Mia Michaels Will Be Back on TV!

Attention, Mia Michaels lovers! All hope is not lost. Even though the star choreographer doesn’t have any immediate plans to return to So You Think You Can Dance, she is coming back to TV before you know it. We just spoke to her, and her message to her fans is this: “Be patient, because you’re gonna get a lot more Mia than you expect.”

So what’s the deal with her new in-the-works choreography show? Here’s what we learned from chatting up the divine Ms. Michaels…

EOnline

‘Fame was like a steam-roller it flattened me’: Susan Boyle on that breakdown – and why she’s determined it won’t happen again

Within minutes of us meeting, Susan Boyle begins badgering me about Britain’s Got Talent judge Piers Morgan. Only she doesn’t call him Piers, she calls him Piersy Baby. Is he a friend? Do I know him?

When I tell her I do, she launches into the Susan Boyle Wiggle and, with a twinkle in her eye, throws herself on the sofa. ‘Ask me whatever you want,’ she says. Okay, do you really have a crush on Piers?

‘You’ve got to admit he is dead handsome,’ she says, going all starry-eyed. Umm, well… Susan, remember, is 48 and single; the never-been-kissed church volunteer who lived alone with her cat in Blackburn, West Lothian, before her jaw-dropping rendition of I Dreamed A Dream on Britain’s Got Talent.

Daily Mail.co.uk

Susan Boyle to Appear on Dancing with the Stars

Susan Boyle is set to dazzle the Dancing with the Stars crowd – with her singing, not her dancing feet.

The Scottish singer, 48, will fly to Los Angeles for an appearance on the hit show early next week, her rep tells PEOPLE. “She’s excited and happy,” says her brother, John Boyle. “She loves America and loves the people. She appreciates their honesty.”

Boyle, who made a previous U.S. appearance on America’s Got Talent last September, will likely sing material from her upcoming CD, I Dreamed A Dream, due out Nov. 24.

People.com

Tweet Beat Featuring Adam Lambert and Kris Allen: H-Ween or H-Peen?

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 03:09:49 +0000

This week’s tweet beat from MTV’s Jim Cantiello features Adam Lambert, his boyfrie buddy, Ferras, and Kris Allen. Jim’s take on Ferras’s Halloween costume is particularly lulzworthy. Hee.

Watch the video, after the JUMP…

MTV Shows

Kris Allen, Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta: Cumulative Soundscan Totals

mj — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:47:38 +0000

Idol numbers guy, Brian Mansfield of USA Today’s Idol Chatter, ended his week of Idol blogging with some bonus numbers from Soundscan:

For this week’s Random Friday Memo, I picked up a few bonus numbers from the Nielsen SoundScan folks that I figured you might enjoy: the cumulative track downloads for three of this past American Idol season’s top finishers. (If I had realized Danny Gokey would debut his single this week, I would’ve gotten his, too.)

Kris Allen: 1.1 million
Adam Lambert: 923,000
Allison Iraheta: 31,000

I’m assuming these are total single sales for each Idol so far, including the sale of Idol downloads during the season? Not sure though, Brian needs to clarify. If he does, I’ll append this post.

UPDATE: Brian has clarified: The numbers do not include downloads sold during the season–those numbers were never reported to Soundscan.

Just for kicks, Brian added that the Adam Lambert/Allison Iraheta version of “Slow Ride” had 42,000 downloads, while the Kris Allen/Danny Gokey “Renegade” sold 20,000 copies.

I’m surprised Allison’s numbers aren’t higher. But, Kris and Adam’s numbers look about right, considering how the contest turned out.

The numbers are interesting, but I don’t think they have much bearing on the Idols now, as they face selling their music beyond the so-called Idol bubble.

Kris Allen Dons Wings For Elle Photo Spread

mj — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:57:19 +0000

Ha ha, from the upcoming December Elle fashion spread featuring Adam Lambert, Allison Iraheta and Kris Allen.

There are scans floating around the net (ahem) of the whole spread, but I got my ass kicked the last time I posted mag scans, so I’ll just post one, lulzworthy photo. Heh.

(Word is, the photo was Kris’s idea)

Randy Jackson Talks Season 9 American Idol

mj — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:52:03 +0000

Lyndsey Parker, of Yahoo Music, in an interview with Idol judge Randy Jackson, tries her hardest to get him to spill some deets about Season 9 of American Idol, but he keeps tight-lipped.

Instead, we get the usual spin and yakety-yakk we’ve grown to know and love (or not) from Randy-dawg.

He does offer one clue, “Someone with hair will win American Idol.” Ha ha Randy, I guess that sucks for all those Daughtry-clones out there. And, Randy says he’s pulling for a girl to take it all this year.

He’s only heard the singles from this year’s crop of signed Idols, but Randy heard no surprises from Kris Allen, Adam Lambert or Allison Iraheta. He thinks they all stuck to what worked for them on the show.

Video after the JUMP…

Randy Jackson Discusses ‘American Idol’ Season 9 @ Yahoo! Video

Lea Michele Really Wants to Sing with Adam Lambert

mj — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:13:17 +0000

Lea Michele, who plays the star-bound songstress Rachel, on the breakout Fox hit Glee, tells MTV News that she really, really, really wants to sing with Adam Lambert.

“I love Adam Lambert! I want to sing with him so badly,” she said. “If they don’t let me [sing with him] on the show, I would just in life. I just want to sing with him so badly. He’s just such an incredible vocal performer, and I’m such a huge fan.

“I feel like I’d be getting to work out at the gym with the best trainer in the world,” she continued. “You want to work out with someone who’s ripped and is going to train you well. That’s what I think about when I think of Adam Lambert. I just think he’s awesome.”

Cory Monteith, sitting next to Lea as she gushes, deadpans, “Lea, just tell Adam Lambert what you feel.” Cory, who plays Finn, the high school football star turned gleekster, thinks Adam is pretty talented too. “He’s a really terrific singer,” says Cory.

If Glee co-creator, Ryan Murphy gets his way, Adam will appear in a cameo in an upcoming Glee episode. But Adam told Ryan Seacrest last week on his radio show, that he hasn’t heard anything official from the show yet.

Via MTV

In other news, Adam Lambert’s new single, “For Your Entertainment”, released to iTunes on Wednesday, (and showing up intermittently on the chart) is now at #48 on the digital retailer’s overall chart…

Download “For Your Entertainment”

Video after the JUMP…

Movie Trailers – Movies Blog

Kris Allen “Live Like We’re Dying” Music Video Premier!

mj — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:12:10 +0000

The Pop Eater premier of Kris Allen’s video, “Live Like We’re Dying” is up! Check it out after the jump.

The video has a cool, futuristic look, with Kris striding through a junkyard to light a giant digital clock. Interspersed are scenes of Kris performing both guitar and piano.

An excerpt from the Popeater interview:

How much input did you have with the whole production?
We had people submit stuff first and it was a little frustrating because I felt like people weren’t getting it … and then we were like “what if it was something like this?” and then another person came back with a great idea that with this idea it kind of intertwined with ours as well.

Did you have fun?
I did. I tried. It was so crazy because I was up all day the day before and I was trying to keep up and awake … And then it was like singing in your loudest tones, it was ridiculous. So I tried to have a great time and I really did, it was a lot of fun. It was my first video, so I was really trying to have a great time.

Download Kris’s Single “Live Like We’re Dying”: iTunes, Amazon

Pre-order Kris Allen, the album: Amazon Pre-order iTunes Pre-order

VIDEO After the JUMP…

Idol Headlines for 11/06/09

mj — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:00:38 +0000

Mary Murphy, Nigel Lythgoe of So You Think You Can Dance Join Dancing With the Stars Celebrities at Hollywood Dancesport Championships, November 7

International dance competitors descend on the Warner Center Marriott in Woodland Hills November 7 to compete for the ultimate Ballroom Dance prize. So You Think You Can Dance judge Mary Murphy will present Nigel Lythgoe with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Who: Mary Murphy (event organizer) So You Think You Can Dance, Nigel Lythgoe So You Think You Can Dance,
Dancing with the Stars dancers Karina Smirnoff, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Louis Van Amstel, Jonathan Roberts, Dmitry Chaplin and his student, singer, Mya. Reichen Lehmkuhl The Amazing Race

Reuters.com

CKX, Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2009 Results

NEW YORK, Nov. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — CKX, Inc. (Nasdaq: CKXE) today reported financial results for its third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

For the three months ended September 30, 2009, revenue declined to $87.4 million from $97.0 million for the comparable period in 2008. Operating income before depreciation, amortization and non-cash stock compensation (”OIBDAN”) declined to $16.4 million from $28.9 million in 2008. The 2009 results include an unfavorable swing of $3.9 million in non-cash foreign exchange gains as compared to 2008. Operating income in 2009 declined to $11.0 million from $22.7 million in 2008.

CNN

More Idol Headlines after the JUMP…

Danny Gokey’s First Single The Latest Sign That He Wants To Be Your Inspiration

danny-heart-132×120 The first single from American Idol third-place finisher Danny Gokey premiered on a Wisconsin country-music station this morning, and it’s probably not going to come as much of a surprise to people who followed him during his long American Idol journey. The track, “It’s Only,” is an inspirational ditty that’s clearly channeling “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” and his breathy voice is nearly drowned out by a super-mournful slide guitar at various moments.

Idolator

Kris Allen song snippets: Let’s rank ‘em from best to not-so-best!

Kris-Allen-photo_lIn some ways, there’s no experience less satisfying than listening to song-snippet leaks from albums you’ve been anticipating for mini-eternities. (What? After an hour of smelling a chocolate cake baking in an oven, you’d be happy with a crumb?) But as someone who happened to be in a three-day corporate meeting last week when Italian Amazon leaked 30-second samples of the 13 songs from Kris Allen’s self-titled debut, I can attest that, in fact, I’d rather have had an all-too-brief musical tease than absolutely no music at all. And while our Music Mix blog has already run an item on the American Idol season 8 champ’s tracks, I figured that as EW’s resident Idoloonie, I had an obligation to weigh in on ‘em, too. (Don’t fret, Adam Lambert fans, I’ve got his 19 snippets on my to-do list, too! But that’s a lot o’ music to digest and dish!)

EW.com

AI Now Exclusive: Matt Giraud Ready To Prove Himself

Today’s AI Now exclusive live chat with season eight “American Idol” finalist Matt Giraud was, in one word, epic. Our thanks to Matt for spending so much time talking with us and his fans. And, our thanks to all of you viewers for record breaking attendance and participation. Today’s chat was quite encompassing, covering dozens of topics and questions. But, let’s be honest, the first thing you want is the scoop on his debut album right? Well we have it!

So what kind of album will Matt be releasing? He’s one of the few artists who can’t give a one word answer to that question. Instead, Matt says, “It’s like Gavin [DeGraw], it’s like Jamie Cullum, it’s like Alicia Keys, it’s like John Mayer. I let all music affect me. I mean I’m going to be doing a Imogen Heap medley at my upcoming shows. Maybe some Disney! Haha, Go The Distance.” And, Matt warns the media and his fans alike not to put him in a box with regard to what type of artist he is, because, in his words, “I might jump out!”

More scoop you say? Okay, how about a song title? Why not three! Matt has been working on songs called “I Will Carry You,” “Gimme A Break” and “Motel.”

AI Now.org

Carrie Underwood, Apparently Playing In Peoria

carrieTrade rag Hits is projecting a No. 1 debut for Carrie Underwood’s third album Play On, which came out yesterday. The magazine is claiming that between 300,000 and 350,000 copies of Play On will be moved during the record’s first week on store shelves—a total that would make the album one of the stronger-debuting releases of 2009. Which is, I have to say, kind of strange, given something I noticed while shopping for sundries last night!

Idolator

Carrie Underwood’s got the write stuff for new album

Between the No. 1 hits and the TV appearances, the magazine covers and the red carpet fashions, music fans can be forgiven for forgetting that country music superstar Carrie Underwood was once an aspiring journalist.

But the credits for her new album, “Play On,” serve as a pointed reminder that the Oklahoma native was sharpening her pen long before she won “American Idol” in 2005.

“I got a lot of practice writing in general, especially in college. You know, in high school I wrote for the school paper; in college I wrote for the school paper and was always busy writing stories,” she said in a September news conference at her Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame induction in Muskogee.

NewsOK.com

CD Review: Carrie Underwood “Play On”

Contemporary country star Carrie Underwood stretches her strong soprano, her songwriting skills and musical boundaries on her third album, “Play On.”

The Checotah native co-wrote seven of the 13 songs, and the album’s sonic diversity reveals the 2005 “American Idol” winner’s willingness to grow and experiment.

The record opens with her latest hit, “Cowboy Casanova,” a feisty country-rocker about a “snake with blue eyes” lothario. She co-wrote the cautionary tale with country songsmith and fellow Okie Brett James and hip-hop writer/producer Mike Elizondo.

NewsOK.com

Carrie Underwood On Track To Top Billboard 200

Carrie Underwood is on track to achieve her second No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 as her just-released “Play On” should debut atop the chart next week. Music industry prognosticators suggest the 19/Arista Nashville set could sell over 300,000 copies by week’s end on Sunday (Nov. night.

Underwood’s last effort, 2007’s “Carnival Ride,” opened in the penthouse with 527,000 and has gone on to sell 2.98 million in the U.S. according to Nielsen SoundScan. The new album’s lead single, “Cowboy Casanova,” moves up two slots to No. 3 on the Hot Country Songs tally and has so far peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“Play On” will lead a cavalcade of new albums in the top 20 of the Billboard 200 next week, with the soundtrack to Fox TV’s “Glee” likely as the next-best debut. The Fox/Columbia album may sell over 100,000 copies in its first week.

Billboard

KELLIE PICKLER “CROSSING” INTO ALABAMA SOON

Former American Idol season five contestant and now Country Music star, Kellie Pickler will headline Country Crossing’s first concert this season to help kick off the opening of Celebrity Station Amphitheatre in Alabama.

Getting tickets is pretty easy and for charity, but you’ve only got until November 13th of this year to take advantage of the opportunity. If you make a donation of $5 minimum or bring at least five canned goods to the Wiregrass Area United Way Food Bank, you’ll receive a ticket for the concert (minimum of two tickets given per person).

Hollywood Outbreak.com

Chris Daughtry in it for the long haul

Chris Daughtry is a pretty humble guy, considering his accomplishments. The soft-spoken singer-songwriter has sold millions of albums and is the first “American Idol” alum to have two-consecutive chart-topping albums. “Leave This Town,” Daughtry’s sophomore effort released in July, hit the top of the Billboard charts by mid-summer.

“I’ve been very fortunate,” Daughtry said. “It’s been amazing. This isn’t something I could have expected. In some ways, what I have accomplished is mind boggling. It just keeps getting more and more incredible. But it’s not just something I’ve done. It’s something I’ve done with my band.”

APP.com

CONCERT REVIEW: Chris Daughtry’s hard-edged ballads please the crowd

Daughtry brought idolatry to a new level at the Sovereign Center on Thursday night with a close-to-capacity crowd.

With former American Idol contestant Chris Daughtry front and center, his self-named band blasted through 90 minutes of perfectly choreographed Top 40 rock filled with enough wailing guitars and staccato drums to make you believe you really were at a rock concert.

But that’s a bit of a lie.

Sure, he played a couple of full-out rockers like “What I Want” and his hit “It’s Not Over,” suitably angst-ridden and filled with lots of plinky guitars.

But what Daughtry plays a lot of, and plays well, are hard-edged ballads

Reading Eagle.com

‘Grease’ slides into Kravis with ‘Idol’ winner Taylor Hicks

WEST PALM BEACH — Jim Jacobs may be a one-hit wonder, but that single long-running show has given him a career for life and a tidy enough income that he will never have to write another word.

The show is “Grease,” which began in a small Chicago community theater, garnering such attention that if moved to off-Broadway and then on to Broadway, where this affectionate spoof of student life at Rydell High in the late 1950s played 3,388 performances — at one time the longest-running musical in Broadway history.

TC Palm.com

A Rock Star Supernova Finally Blows Up: Dilana Returns!

Three years ago I was somewhat obsessed with Rock Star: Supernova–the Dave Navarro-hosted, American Idol-like talent search for the singer of a NEW “supergroup” formed by Motley Crue’s Tommy Lee, Guns N’ Roses’ Gilby Clarke, and Metallica’s Jason Newsted. And much of my obsession centered on Dilana, a South African, neon-dreaded, facially-pieced, sandpaper-throated rock goddess who wowed me and her judges/prospective bandmates with her first riveting, hoodie-shrouded, seemingly possessed performance of Nirvana’s “Lithium.”

Yahoo.com

Idol’s Syesha: #3 is now on top

Losing your voice on Fox’s “American Idol” would be a nightmare come true for most contestants, but not for Syesha Mercado. During Hollywood Week, she communicated with a raspy whisper and handwritten notes, and then shocked the judges with a powerful rendition of “Chain of Fools,” after which Randy declared her the “one to watch.” America fell in love with the gorgeous, optimistic, and bubbly then 20-year-old, who has had her share of difficult times. Her father – now recovered – struggled with alcohol and drug addiction, and her house burned down when she was in high school. She made it to the top three during “Idol’s” seventh season, behind David Archuleta and winner David Cook, but that was just the beginning.

Blast caught up with the young starlet to hear about her upcoming debut album and her lead role in the Broadway production of “Dreamgirls,” which premieres on November 22 at the Apollo Theater in Harlem and will continue on a 14-city tour throughout the country.

Blast Magazine

Blake Lewis: American Idol A ‘Double Edged Sword’ (AUDIO)

American Idol runner-up Blake Lewis came on the Jack Rice Show to discuss his new album, “Heartbreak On Vinyl.” In the past, American Idol contestants have been hesitant to speak candidly about their experiences, but Blake gave Jack a very honest answer while talking about the drawbacks to being a star on American Idol. He said,

Air America

Former ‘Idol’ joins her childhood idols

When “American Idol” finalist Jasmine Trias was growing up in Hawaii, her parents sometimes took her to see one of Honolulu’s most acclaimed show bands — the Society of Seven.

Trias never dreamed that one day she would co-star with the troupe in Las Vegas.

Society of Seven returns to Vegas tonight, opening a run at the Gold Coast. Trias replaces Lani Misalucha, who has her own show, “Voices,” at the Hilton.

Las Vegas Sun

American Idols in Lorain

It’s not all business at the Home, Family & Small Business Expo. The health fair, job fair, game show and hair show also offers live entertainment. Taking place from noon to 9 p.m. today and tomorrow at the Spartan Building, formerly Lorain Catholic High School, 35th Street and Tower Boulevard, it features two Northeast Ohio singers who were finalists in “American Idol.”

Oberlin native Charles Grigsby and Shaker Heights native Scott Savol will appear at the event today along with the group, the Croonerz.

Since his days on Idol, Grigsby released a self-titled album, while Savol appeared in a musical version of “The Wizard of Oz” as well as in “America’s Favorite Finalists,” a live music show in Branson, Mo.

Morning Journal.com

X Factor’s Simon Cowell auctioned at £19,000 an hour

Cowell donated 60 minutes of his expertise at the sale – which featured leading figures from the business, arts and entertainment world – and he was bought with a winning bid by music mogul Lucian Grainge, chairman of Universal Music.

He was worth more than his pal Sir Philip Green, the retail tycoon, who went for £18,000 at the ”Krug Mind Share” party at auction house Christie’s in London last night.

The price for Cowell’s activity is way above the going rate for his time – he is thought to earn about £30 million each year, which works out at just over £3,400 per hour.

Telegraph.co.uk

‘So You Think You Can Dance’ star Jeanine Mason on winning, touring, growing up

I chatted with Jeanine when the group was in Texas and got the scoop on what she learned from her experience on the show, where she’s headed next, and what she really thinks about Russian Folk dancing.

First, though, I had to come clean about my enthusiasm for her as a contestant. I proudly pointed out that I had named her my favorite and predicted her win several weeks early.

SDNN.com

2 Utahns living their dreams on ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ tour

When Brandon Bryant was named runner up during Season 5’s “So You Think You Can Dance,” he was honored and relieved.

“I realized that I wouldn’t have the stress of being the winner,” Bryant said during a phone call from Charlotte, N.C. “But I still get the recognition, and I still get to do things with the ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ family.”

Bryant, the Florida native who danced with Utah’s Odyssey Dance Theatre last year, placed second to Jeanine Mason at the end of the show’s fifth season. And that solidified his place on the “So You Think You Can Dance” tour, which makes a stop at the E Center today.

For Bryant, being on the tour is everything he’s always dreamed of — and more.

Deseret News

There’s something about Jedward

Simon Cowell has threatened to leave the country if they win, but Cheryl Cole admitted they were her guilty pleasure.

If X Factor finalists John and Edward have a gift, it seems it is the ability to divide opinion.

If the acts on The X Factor were judged like the dancers on Strictly Come Dancing, there is little doubt that Jedward would be bottom of the leader board week after week.

However, for the last four weeks the Irish teenagers have been saved from elimination by the public vote.

BBC.co.uk

Danny Gokey – “It’s Only” – Single Premiere

mj — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:43:46 +0000

Danny Gokey premiered his new song, “It’s Only” on the Milwaukee country station, FM106.1 this mornning. Written by Dave and Charles from Lady Antebellum and produced by Carrie Underwood producer, Mark Bright, the song is sentimental, inspirational and full of emotion.

In other word’s, it’s right in Danny’s wheelhouse.

One thing I noted during the summer tour, is how intensely Danny connected to his audience. The crowd loved the little inspirational speech he gave before Rascal Flatt’s “My Wish”, totally soaking up the message of the song. If Danny can downplay his newbie status, and stick to his strengths, he’s got shot at country.

Danny Gokey – “It’s Only”

Interview (sorry, my internet transmission cut out for a few seconds…)

Danny Gokey – Interview

“It’s Only” will be released for digital download on December 14. The album comes out March 2010.

Danny Gokey New Single “It’s Only” Will Debut Friday Morning 11/06

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:56:43 +0000

Danny Gokey’s new single “It’s Only” will debut Friday morning (11/06) at 7:15 CT on FM106.1, a Milwaukee, WI country station.

The news came via tweet from the station peeps:

We will talk w/ Danny Gokey live in the morning and 7:15 & let him introduce his brand new single “It’s Only”. http://bit.ly/tENg1

The link to the station’s live broadcast is HERE.

Milwaukee is in the Central time zone–keep that in mind if you plan to tune in!

UPDATE: From the 106.1 facebook page: “The song was written by Dave and Charles from Lady Antebellum and produced by Mark Bright, the guy behind Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts. (3 hours ago)”

Kris Allen Video Debuts on Pop Eater Friday, Full Album Streams Monday

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:51:39 +0000

Just thought you peeps would like to know–not only will the fine folks at AOL Popeater be debuting Kris Allen’s “Live Like We’re Dying” music video tomorrow (11/6) but…

Kris Allen’s self-titled album will stream on Popeater MONDAY, November 9.

Yay!

Download Kris’s Single “Live Like We’re Dying” here:

Pre-order Kris Allen, the album:

Allison Iraheta – Friday I’ll Be Over U in Spanish

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:45:57 +0000

Check out Allison Iraheta singing her new single, “Friday I’ll Be Over U” in Spanish. Sweet!

If you can buy the song…don’t steal it!

Allison Iraheta – Friday I’ll Be Over U

And in English…download here:

Jennifer Hudson In Chicago to Film Holiday Special

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:17:12 +0000

Jennifer Hudson is in her hometown, Chicago filming her holiday special for ABC, set to air in December.

Home for the Holidays will be based on her life growing up in Chicago, and is sure to be an emotional journey for Jennifer. Last October, her mother brother and nephew were murdered, allegedly by her sisters estranged boyfriend.

In the clip, Jennifer heads back to her old high school to meet with students and perform a concert. Her teacher recounts Jennifer proclaiming in music class that “I’m going to be a famous singer.”

There’s a little tease of Jennifer singing, “This Christmas” for the students.

This trip is the first visit to Chicago for her 3 month old son, David.

Carrie Underwood – Live With Regis and Kelly – VIDEO

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:34:21 +0000

Carrie Underwood appeared on Live with Regis and Kelly this morning to perform her country hit, “Cowboy Casanova”. She also sat down for a chat with Regis and Kelly before she hit the stage to sing.

Carrie says she’s up to “9ish” costume changes for the CMAs!

Next week is Carrie week, with a slew of television performances, culminating in a co-hosting the Country Music Awards with Brad Paisley on November 11. For more, check my Idol Appearances Page.

Get Carrie:

Carrie Underwood – Play On – Amazon
Carrie Underwood – Play On – iTunes

Videos after the JUMP…

Interview:

Cowboy Casanova

David Archuleta On Songwriting for his next Album

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:31:15 +0000

David Archuleta is hard at work writing songs for his next studio album.

Recently, David sat down with Jim Cantiello of MTV news to discuss what fans might expect on his next album, set to be released in 2010.

(The interview was done the day Jim and David went Christmas Caroling together. Good Stuff.)

David spent a week in Nashville working with Joy Williams, Matt Wertz and Mat Kearney producer Robert Marvin (Marvin tweeted two song titles, “Falling Awake” and “Sooner or Later”).

In New York City, David collaborated with songwriter/producer Jeymes Samuel, who has worked with KT Tunstall, Mr Hudson and, the Gorillaz.

“I’m hoping that at least some of the songs I’ve written this time around will be able to make it on to the record,” Archuleta recently told MTV News. “I don’t think songs have to be like these super-#1-smash-hit-sounding songs, because I think it’s more important that it’s like, ‘Hey! This is coming out of me. This is something I connect with. This is something that I like to sing.’ ”

In addition to pushing himself as a songwriter, Archuleta hints that he might cover more genres on the next album. “Even if it’s, like, different styles of music … when you write, it’s like, ‘Yeah, even though these songs are different, they’re David songs.’ And you can’t say anything different. You can’t say, ‘Oh, that’s not a David song.’ It’s like, ‘Well, yeah it is because it’s my story and I wrote about it and it’s coming out of me!’ “

UPDATE: David is in LA this week, working with Victoria Horn (@ladyvmusic) who’s worked with Katy Perry, Boyonce, Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Jordin Sparks and Brandy, Matt Squire (@Matt_Squire) who’s worked with Panic! at the Disco, All Time Low, boys Like Girls, Emily Osment and Katy Perry.

Videos after the jump! David elaborates on the songwriting process.

David’s Christmas album, Christmas From The Heart is available in stores now:

Videos after the Jump…

On collaborating with Jeymes Samuel–worked with the Gorillaz–in New York.

David wants the songs on his next record to be “David” songs. The songs he’s working on will be more personal, autobiographical.

David elaborates more on the songwriting process, with he finds cathartic. He recently finished 6 songs. The music will be “his story”.

Idol Headlines for 11/05/09

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:06:59 +0000

Lady Gaga Loves Working With ‘Up-And-Coming’ Artists Like Adam Lambert

Lady Gaga and Adam Lambert are both splashy, glamorous pop singers, so having Gaga write a song for the “American Idol” runner-up’s forthcoming debut album, For Your Entertainment, felt like a natural fit. When Lambert’s camp approached the over-the-top singer to contribute a song to the album (which hits stores the same week as her The Fame Monster re-release), she had just the right song for him.

“I saw him on the set backstage when I did ‘American Idol,’ but I didn’t really know him. They called me and told me Adam really wanted me to write for him,” she told MTV News, adding that the song “Fever” felt just right for Lambert. “And I had this song that I had already done that I thought would have been perfect, so we went into the studio.”

MTV

Adam Lambert: Cool, calm and eclectic

Kicking off another typical seven-day work week in the offices of his management company 19 Entertainment, Adam Lambert fixed his gaze on his own pretty face. Scattered across his publicist’s desk were proof sheets from a photo session with the singer, who will release his debut album on RCA Records, “For Your Entertainment,” Nov. 23. The shots captured Lambert in typical glam-god poses: peacock, street tough, space oddity, freaky adventurer in the boudoir of the damned.

Lambert, who in person is none of those things but rather a startlingly grounded 27-year-old radiating Southern Californian optimism, took up a red pencil and circled a frame. “This one needs a little fix here,” he said, momentarily playing art director. It’s all part of one big performance for Lambert as he works to resurrect rock in the new pop age.

Calender Live

New E! reality show has folks asking celebs for cash

A new reality show from E! and Ryan Seacrest Prods. gives ordinary people the chance to plead for money from rich celebrities and moguls.

In “Bank of Hollywood,” a panel of notable names takes pitches from Americans in need of cash. The proposals range from a do-gooder raising money for charity to a grad student who can’t afford a ring to propose to his girlfriend.

“The idea’s simple,” Seacrest said. “We are giving away tons of money to everyday people to alleviate the stress of today’s climate and have fun.”

The Feed

More Idol Headlines after the JUMP…

Adam Lambert: I’m “Cool” Being Single

Adam Lambert is already on the rebound!

Three days after Usmagazine.com reported that the American Idol runner-up, 27, split from interior designer boyfriend Drake LaBry, 24, he told Us he’s “cool” being single.

In fact, when his debut album, For Your Entertainment, comes out on Nov. 23, he plans to promote not only his music, but also himself.

“I will date on tour,” Lambert told Us at the 2012 premiere in L.A. Tuesday.

Explosions Nearly Make Adam Lambert’s Guyliner Run

Plus, whoever the director was certainly didn’t get the memo that explosions are welcome additions to hard rock epics or anything by Motorhead, but pretty much the opposite of what you want to see in a ballad. A “Time for Miracles” does not translate well to a “Time for many, many things to explode around me, leaving me remarkably unscathed, yet ineffective in saving ANY victims of the apocalypse.” It’s like every propane company in the city decided to leave out their wares while Lambert walked around lighting fires.

Maybe instead of screeching from the rooftops about miracles, he could have helped out the innocent skateboard riders that happened to pass by during the end of the world.

NBC Local

Adam Lambert Feels ‘Honored’ To Be On ‘2012′ Soundtrack

It’s a big month for Adam Lambert. He’s releasing his debut album, For Your Entertainment, on November 23, which is just 10 days after “2012″ hits movie theaters. This isn’t exciting news for Lambert because he’s a big fan of disaster flicks, but instead because his song “Time for Miracles” appears on the movie’s soundtrack.

At the Los Angeles premiere of the film on Tuesday night, he told reporters how great it felt to be asked to contribute to the film’s soundtrack since it was long before he had started work on his debut LP.

MTV

Want to hear what Allison Iraheta’s ‘Holiday’ sounds like? Then check out our exclusive stream of the video…by ‘Rock Star: Supernova’ star Dilana!

As an American Idol obsessive, I was too burnt out from the epic aftermath of Daughtry-Elliott-Taylor-Katharine-Paris-Kellie Awesomeness (aka season 5) to pay strict attention to Rock Star: Supernova when it debuted in July 2006. Still, several of my EW colleagues got deeply invested in the show, which was enough to get me to tape — on VHS! in my pre-DVR days! how tragique! — a few episodes, and thereby discover the raspy pleasures of eventual runner-up Dilana. And good thing I did, too, because as an Idol obsessive, hers is a name that’s become increasingly important to know.

Allison Iraheta Just Like You Track Listing Revealed

Let the rock-off begin! Just days after the track listing and 30-second samples of Adam Lambert’s For Your Entertainment were revealed, the tracks and talent roster for fellow “American Idol” alum Allison Iraheta’s Just Like You have been unveiled. The list of familiar contributors to the album suggests that while Iraheta is digging into her rock roots, she’s also seriously indulging her pop side as well.

Like Lambert, Iraheta tapped “Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi for some songwriting help for the LP, due out December 1. Kara penned “No One Else” with Pink (listed by her birth name, Alecia Moore) and Grammy-nominated producer/writer Greg Wells (Katy Perry, OneRepublic, Kelly Clarkson), who also contributed to Lambert’s album.

MTV

Carrie Underwood Covers ‘Lucky’ December 2009

Carrie Underwood is glitzy in a Rebecca Taylor silk-chiffon blend glitter jacket on the December 2009 cover of Lucky.

The 26-year-old Grammy winner, whose CD Play On is in stores today, is one of the magazine’s “most low-key cover girls.” Carrie said she’s a casual dresser: “I love dressing up when I’m in front of a crowd,” she shared, “but in my downtime, nothing beats a great pair of sweats.”

Just Jared

CMT Insider Interview: Carrie Underwood

After two multi-platinum albums, Carrie Underwood says she felt less pressure while working her latest project, Play On, which arrived in stores this week.

During a recent interview with CMT Insider host Katie Cook, Underwood talked about her continuing desire to develop as a singer and songwriter. She also offered her observations about the current role of women in country music.

Here’s an excerpt from Cook’s interview:

CMT

Carrie Underwood Is Ready for Paradise

Carrie Underwood is performing a free concert on Dec. 5, but there are a couple of catches. One, you have to be a guest at the Atlantis, a resort in Paradise Island, Bahamas. And two, you still need a lot of money. Rooms for that weekend start at $246 a night, but then skyrocket up to the four-digit prices for the really nice luxury suites.

CMT

Jennifer Hudson is back in her hometown, and Chicago is starring in her latest project.

There have already been two sightings of the award winning singer and actress.

The executive producer for the holiday special says Jennifer Hudson was chosen because she is one of the most generous artists he has ever worked with and she is spontaneously creative.

The show will be based on her life story and Chicago is the backdrop.

ABC Local

David Archuleta Writing ‘Fun Music’ For Next Album

“I’m hoping that at least some of the songs I’ve written this time around will be able to make it on to the record,” Archuleta recently told MTV News. “I don’t think songs have to be like these super-#1-smash-hit-sounding songs, because I think it’s more important that it’s like, ‘Hey! This is coming out of me. This is something I connect with. This is something that I like to sing.’ ”

In addition to pushing himself as a songwriter, Archuleta hints that he might cover more genres on the next album. “Even if it’s, like, different styles of music … when you write, it’s like, ‘Yeah, even though these songs are different, they’re David songs.’ And you can’t say anything different. You can’t say, ‘Oh, that’s not a David song.’ It’s like, ‘Well, yeah it is because it’s my story and I wrote about it and it’s coming out of me!’ ”

MTV

But here are a few tidbits from Utah’s favorite son. (Sorry, Donny. Maybe if you win “Dancing With the Stars,” but not until then.)

David, who is learning guitar to go along with piano, is spending all this week and next week writing songs with producers as he works on an album with an unknown release date. He spent some time in Nashville several weeks ago and also wrote while he was there. “I’m learning how to become a songwriter,” he said.

He has goals for his next album, though. “I just want my personality to come out,” he said. “I want this music to have some character — my character. I want my stories to be in here.”

Salt Lake Tribune

Live Review: David Cook in Phoenix

Early on in his show last night (11/3) at Phoenix’s Veterans Memorial Coliseum, “American Idol” winner David Cook [ tickets ] wanted to assure fans that he was giving it his all.

“In the intent of full disclosure, I’m going to tell you something and I want you to try really hard not to hold it against us,” Cook told the audience, whose deafening screams permeated the air at the singer’s every move. “You don’t even know what we’re going to tell you yet. We just got back from a two-week vacation. This is our first show back. I want you to make sure we’re giving you 175 percent.”

Live Daily

Sierra Boggess, Tyler Maynard, Orfeh et al. Set for New York City Christmas CD Release Benefit Concert

Sierra Boggess, Andy Karl, Tyler Maynard, Lindsay Mendez, Orfeh, Tory Ross, Anya Singleton and Sally Wilfert are set to perform in the second annual concert presentation of a New York City Christmas at Joe’s Pub on December 14. Stafford Arima will direct.

The concert will benefit ASTEP — an organization dedicated to using the power of art to change and inspire individuals and communities in Africa, India and the U.S. — in addition to celebrating the release of a CD inspired by the first New York City Christmas event.

Artists featured on the CD also include Constantine Maroulis and Raul Esparza. The disc features pop, soul, R&B, and rock interpretations of songs such as “Santa Claus Is Coming’ to Town,” Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Silent Night” and “New York Christmas.”

Theatre Mania

American Idol’ finalist wants you to spend a night at his Rock Show’

NEW YORK — Constantine Maroulis likes being busy.

“It’s that Greek work ethic,” the Tony-nominee and “American Idol” finalist says with a laugh. “I thrive on the workload.”

That’s why Maroulis decided he needed another project, in addition to normally doing eight shows a week in “Rock of Ages” on Broadway and working on a new album.

Maroulis’ latest project is “A Night at the Rock Show,” part of his plan to create his own brand and keep people interested in his work.

Q. Where did the idea for “A Night at the Rock Show” come from?

A. I wanted to do something that symbolized all the influences from my life in rock ‘n’ roll, from Bob Seger to the Goo Goo Dolls, and I thought “A Night at the Rock Show” was a cool concept for the fans. … It’s a celebration of rock music, of songs we can tell these great stories about, songs from movies that I love — all leaning on the rock side of things, even if it’s not Twisted Sister like it is in “Rock of Ages.”

Victoria Advocate

Bo Bice gets a spot on soundtrack of ‘Noble Things’

Bo Bice, an Alabama native and former “American Idol” contender, can be heard on the soundtrack of a new movie, “Noble Things.”

It’s about an aspiring country singer who swerves off the road to success and finds himself hitch-hiking home to see his sick father. Bice sings “Old Spanish Trail,” which crops up in a chase scene, according to his publicist.

AL.com

Down-to-earth Daughtry

Chris Daughtry has had the kind of chart-busting immediate success that rarely happens in music these days.

He sold more than a million copies of his 2006 self-titled CD within the first five weeks of its release before racking up nearly 4.5 million copies sold overall.

It was quite a statement for Daughtry, who performs at Trump Taj Mahal’s Mark G. Ettes Arena at 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 6. Despite enjoying early popularity on the 2006 season of “American Idol,” the singer finished fourth that season.

Press of Atlantic City

Daughtry strives for normalcy at home

Chris Daughtry stalks the stage in jeans, a black T-shirt and a hint of bling. With a shaved head and beard meticulously manicured, he glares into the middle distance, a young rock star pumping attitude for his first appearance on the long-running PBS concert show “Soundstage.” Then someone in the audience catches him off guard.

Daughtry pauses, grins. Suddenly, he’s not a rock star, just a guy from Guilford County who happened to win the music-biz lottery.

“I’m glad you think I’m awesome,” he says with a shy smile. “I think you’re awesome.”

Go Triad

Chart Beat Wednesday: Boyz II Men, Whitney Houston, Reba McEntire

On Country Songs, a former pop/rock smash crosses over, as Bucky Covington arrives at No. 58 with “Gotta Be Somebody.” Nickelback’s original topped Adult Pop Songs for five weeks beginning in January and reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 (No. 10), Alternative Songs (No. 10) and Mainstream Rock (No. 9). The track also peaked in the top 20 on Pop Songs (No. 13) and Adult Contemporary (No. 18).

Billboard

Cory Monteith

“Glee” cast member Cory Monteith is joining Amanda Crew and Adrianne Palicki in the cast of indie thriller “Breaking the Girl.” The film, directed by Jamie Babbit (”But I’m a Cheerleader”), centers on a manipulative college student who takes an innocent classmate under her wing in the guise of close friendship, with the real intent of blackmailing her into committing murder.

Variety

The Many Roles Of ‘Glee’ Meanie Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch has earned a lot of attention recently for her role as Sue Sylvester in the new Fox comedy series Glee. As Sue, Lynch plays the cutthroat coach of an Ohio high school cheerleading team, a woman who’s constantly scheming — and who’s not above indulging in dirty tricks — to keep her squad, the Cheerios, at the top of the high-school food chain as the glee club tries to work its way up.

NPR.org

‘Glee’ video: We talk to the cast at their NYC soundtrack signing!

Now, I love Glee but I was NOT prepared for the Gleek enthusiasm seen at yesterday’s soundtrack signing at the Time Warner Center in New York City. Luckily, I was there with a very brave camera crew and caught the whole bonanza on film. Thankfully, there were no Gleek stampedes, but I did get to chat with Chris Colfer (Kurt), Dianna Agron (Quinn), and Mark Salling (Puck), as well as some very excited fans. Watch the video below for the cast’s thoughts on everything from their favorite Glee songs to the World Series and Madonna!

Cheryl Burke to Perform on Broadway?

Dancing With the Stars pro Cheryl Burke may be headed to Broadway this winter, sources tell PEOPLE. Burke, 25, was spotted at the Ambassador Theater Tuesday night catching the musical Chicago.

A source tells PEOPLE that Burke is in talks to take on the role of Roxie Hart this winter in between Dancing’s current season and season 10.

“It’s always been a dream of Cheryl’s to perform on Broadway,” the source says. “She’s excited to show off her other talents besides being a good dancer. She’s been vocally trained and she has a great voice.”

People.com

‘So You Think You Can Dance’: Tabitha & Napoleon talk season 6 standouts…

Yep, got more “So You Think You Can Dance” for you, friends.

Caught up with my favorite choreographing couple Tabitha & Napoleon after this week’s episode and we had a nice little chat.

Who were they loving this ep? Who can they not wait to work with?

NappyTabs is talking (and giving it up for the show’s most fantastic new addition, Ms. Stacey Tookey)…

Zap2it.com

Frankie Goes To Hollywood star Holly Johnson: ‘Simon Cowell was the only person to offer me work’ – exclusive

After a string of mammoth No1 hits, the Frankie Goes To Hollywood star had retreated from the world of pop.

Now, in an exclusive interview with the Mirror, Holly reveals how one man refused to give up on him – a then little-known music industry executive named Simon Cowell.

Holly says: “When I dropped out of the music business, it was like being an outcast for a number of years.

“It was a very hard and dark time for me. I was gravely ill and no one knew if I would make it.

“I had little support from people in the music business and I didn’t hear from any of the other band members.

Mirror.co.uk

The X Factor: Have Jedward peaked?

X Factor has thrown up a handful of incontrovertible truths this year. Cheryl Cole is programmed to cry at 30-minute intervals. Simon Cowell doesn’t know what shirt buttons are for. And Jon and Edward’s rendition of Oops … I Did It Again will forever be seen as the zenith of human civilisation. Don’t bother arguing against that last one. You’ll just look silly.

But now I’m worried. Could that Britney performance have been so magnificent that Jedward will never be able to top it? In short: have the twins peaked too soon?

Guardian.co.uk

Kris Allen News, Plus New Photos and Radio Interviews

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:17:04 +0000

Some Kris Allen news for you!

Kris will “present nominees” for the People’s Choice Awards, 2010, according to a twitter from People. The twit asks us to come back “here” Tuesday for live picks of the event. Yes, it’s a little vague, but I’m sure more will be revealed soon.

And the New York Post, in a nod to People’s Sexiest Men Alive, picked their own candidates for the honor. Kris is one of their picks–but what’s up with that photo? Check it out HERE.

Check out the beautiful photos from a brand new Kris photo shoot HERE.

Plus, Kris has been busy doing phone interviews with radio stations, promoting his single, “Live Like We’re Dying”. After the jump, 4 new radio interviews.

Pre-Order Kris Allen from iTunes below:

Download Kris’s Single “Live Like We’re Dying” here:

Pre-order Kris Allen, the album:

Mix 101.9 – Fayetteville, AK

Q94 Richmond VA

Total Access with Michael Maze, KC 101 Hamden, CT

97.5 Waab Mobile, AL – HERE

HDD Predicts Carrie Underwood #1, 300-350K, Glee 100-125K

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:56:47 +0000

Hits Daily Double posted their one day sales prediction for Carrie Underwood’s Play On, and it’s good news.

Carrie is expected to debut at #1. Congrats Carrie! Glee: The Music Vol. 1 is expected to do pretty well, too.

She’s the one Idol that keeps on giving.

Hits to her record labels, that is. 19/Arista Nashville country crossover queen Carrie Underwood’s Play On, her third album and first since 2007’s Carnival Ride from the 2005 American Idol champ, is headed for a first-week bow at #1, with a total anywhere between 300-350k.

Columbia’s Glee, Vol. 1 will choreograph a pretty solid week of sales between 100-125k, where it will be neck and neck with Decca’s operatic icon Andrea Bocelli, not that he’ll know the difference, but we digress.

Check out Carrie tomorrow morning on Live With Regis and Kelly. Check your local listings for time and channel.

Get Carrie:

Carrie Underwood – Play On – Amazon
Carrie Underwood – Play On – iTunes

Get GLEE:

Glee: The Music Volume 1 – iTunes
Glee: The Music Volume 1 – Amazon

Adam Lambert – Official Track List with Songwriters and Producers, Plus New Appearances

mj — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:11:35 +0000

RCA put out a press release today announcing the release of Adam Lambert’s debut album, For Your Entertainment. It’s got songwriter and producer credits listed, plus some new info on television appearances.

“I feel so lucky to have been granted true opportunity to work with some of the top producers and writers in popular music,” Says Adam. “This album is a reflection of their genius and the collaborative energy that they were gracious enough to share with me.

The appearances:

Sunday November 22 – Perform “For Your Entertainment” on the American Music Awards
Wednesday November 25 – Good Morning America
Wednesday November 25 – Late Show With David Letterman (will pre-tape Monday, November 23)
More shows announced soon

The Letterman gig is impressive. Dave rarely books Idols fresh off the show.

Download “For Your Entertainment”

After the jump, check out the Official track list.

The super-sleuths had the credits nearly perfect. There was some question about who wrote “If I Had You”–it’s a Max Martin production with help from Savan Kotecha and Johan Shellback.

While an EW article credited “Loaded Smile” to Adam and Linda Perry, the song is strictly a Perry creation, and Adam gets a writing credit on the Rivers Cuomo tune, “Pick U Up”

1 Music Again 3:16 – Writer – Justin Hawkins, Producer – Rob Cavallo
2 For Your Entertainment 3:35 – Writers – Claude Kelly/Dr. Luke, Producer: Dr. Luke – Lead single
3 Whataya Want from Me 3:47 – Writers: Pink, Max Martin, Johan Shellback, Producers: Max Martin & Johan Shellback
4 Strut 3:29 – Adam Lambert, Kara DioGuardi, Greg Wells, Producer: Greg Wells
5 Soaked 4:33 – Writer: Matthew Bellamy (MUSE), Producer: Rob Cavallo
6 Sure Fire Winners 3:32 – Writers: David Gamson, Alexander James, Oliver Lieber, Producer: Rob Cavallo
7 A Loaded Smile 4:04 – Writer/Producer – Linda Perry
8 If I Had You 3:48 – Writers- Max Martin, Johan Shellback, Savan Kotecha, Producers: Max Martin & Johan Shellback
9. Pick U Up – Writers- Rivers Cuomo, Greg Wells, Adam Lambert. Producer – Greg Wells
10 Fever 3:26 – Writers – Lady Gaga, Jeff Bhasker, Producer- Jeff Bhasker
11 Sleepwalker 4:25 – Writers – Ryan Tedder, Aimee Mayo, Chris Lindsey, Producer- Ryan Tedder
12 Aftermath – 4:26 – Writers – Adam Lambert, Alisan Porter, Ferras, Ely Rise. Producer- Howard Benson
13 Broken Open 5:03 – Writers- Greg Wells, Adam Lambert, Evan Bogart. Producer – Greg Wells
14 Time for Miracles Bonus Track 4:43 – Writers – Alain Johannes, Natasha Shneider. Producer – Rob Cavallo

Anoop Desai Working on A New Track With Brandon Rogers

mj — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:44:14 +0000

Anoop Desai is working on a new song with Season 6 Idol, Brandon Rogers, according to Anoop’s lastest My Space blog:

Hey everyone!

Wanted to keep you updated on goings on in Los Angeles. I’ve had a productive couple weeks in my new surroundings. Last night I was in the studio with my buddy and fellow Idol alum Brandon Rogers and Russ Ali (google him) working on a new track called “Not Like This”. I’m really excited about this one. When its done I’ll be sure to put it up here for y’all. Also working with a few other people around LA and David Mikush who is based in Atlanta on some new music. This is going to be the stuff that makes up the demo that I’ll be shopping to record companies in the very very near future. For now, I’m out here grindin.

Brandon Rogers finished 12th Season 6, and has been recording music and playing gigs around LA. He also does some work with the TV Guide channel.

Allison Iraheta – Just Like You -Songwriting and Production Credits

mj — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:51:15 +0000

Via Michael Slezak at EW:

Allison Iraheta fanboy, Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Slezak, got a hold of the songwriting and production credits for Allison’s debut album, Just Like You, set to drop December 1, and he’s posted them, just for us Idoloonies.

The title track, “Just Like You” is a Max Martin tune (as is her single, “Friday I’ll Be Over U). There’s a Pink/Kara DioGuardi/Greg Wells tune, “No One Else”, a co-write with David Hodges, “You Don’t Know Me” and a Kevin Rudolf tune, “Beat Me Up”. Howard Benson produced “Still Breathing”.

Gary Glitter gets a credit on “Robot Love” I’m assuming that’s a sample. Gary Glitter is in jail on a pedophile charge right now. Ahem.

UPDATE: A couple more notes, from comments:

“Holiday” is a cover of a Dilana (Rock Star: Supernova) song–listen HERE.
And, a demo of the Aimee Proal song, “Trouble Is” at Aimee’s MySpace HERE.

Allison’s new single “Friday I’ll Be Over U” is available for download, now.

Check out the track list, after the jump…

1. “Friday I’ll Be Over U” (Max Martin, Shellback, Savan Kotecha, Tiffany Amber) (Produced by Max Martin & Shellback for Maratone Productions)
2. “Robot Love” (Heather Bright, Warren “Oak” Felder, Johannes Joergensen, Sterling Simms, Gary Glitter, Mike Leander) (Produced By “Oak” of the Knightwritaz for NineTimesNine Entertainment & Uncle Josh for DEEKAY)
3. “Just Like You” (Max Martin, Shellback, Savan Kotecha) (Produced by Max Martin & Shellback for Maratone Productions)
4. “Don’t Waste The Pretty” (Michael Dennis Smith, Stefanie Ridel, Miriam Nervo, Olivia Nervo) (Produced by Howard Benson)
5. “Scars” (Toby Gad, Elyssa James) (Produced by Toby Gad)
6. “Pieces” (Daniel James, Leah Haywood, Shelly Pieken) (Produced By Dreamlab)
7. “D Is For Dangerous” (Sam Watters, Louis Biancaniello, Michael Biancaniello) (Produced by Sam Watters & Louis Biancaniello for MzMeriq)
8. “Holiday” (Dave Bassett, Dilana Trudy Smith) (Produced by Dave Bassett)
9. “Still Breathing” (Tommy Henriksen, Chioma Eze) (Produced by Howard Benson)
10. “Trouble Is” (Ron Aniello, Shelly Pieken, Aimee Proal) (Produced by Ron Aniello)
11. “No One Else” (Kara DioGuardi, Greg Wells, Alecia Moore) (Produced by Greg Wells)
12. “Beat Me Up” (Kevin Rudolf, Jacob Kasher) (Produced by Kevin Rudolf for BAMF Productions)
13. “You Don’t Know Me” (Allison Iraheta, Mitch Allan, David Bassett, David Hodges) (Produced by Mitch Allan & David Hodges)

Jason Castro – Let’s Fall In Love Again – FOX 4 Houston

mj — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:26:43 +0000

Jason Castro, traveling across the US on a mall tour, is back in Dallas TX, tonight to play a free show at the Grapevine Mills Mall @ 6pm tonight at 6 pm.

Yesterday, he was in Houston TX and stopped by the local FOX affiliate to chat and play his new single, “Let’s Fall in Love Again”. Check it out, after the jump.

Although he didn’t mention his recent engagement to Mandy Mayhall, he did talk about his self-titled album, set to be released through Atlantic records early 2010.

correction: this performance is from houston yesterday, not dallas today…

Download “Lets Fall in Love Again,” from iTunes.com.

Jason Castro – Let’s Just Fall In Love Again

Video after the JUMP..

Interview

Let’s Just Fall In Love

Melinda Doolittle to Perform at Feinstein’s, New York City – VIDEO

mj — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:02:27 +0000

Season 6 Idol, Melinda Doolittle sings “Home” at Feinstein’s in New York City for the True Colors cabaret in September 2009.

If you missed her September performance, mark your calender–Melinda will be performing at Feinstein’s again, November 17th through the 21st. For more information, check out the Feinstein’s website.

If I had plans to be in New York at that time, I’d definitely be there.

Adam Lambert – For Your Entertainment – Now Available on iTunes

mj — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:10:32 +0000

Adam Lambert’s new single, “For Your Entertainment” is now available at iTunes:

Download “For Your Entertainment”

Adam Lambert – For Your Entertainment

It took the peeps at iTunes long enough to make it available. Wonder what the hold up was? No matter, “For Your Entertainment” is on iTunes, for your dancing pleasure!

Download “For Your Entertainment” at Amazon’s mp3 store:

Adam Lambert – For Your Entertainment