Known as the "Mongolia Enya" and a real-life princess, the singer is about to make her debut on the Beijing stage. Chen Nan reports.
Singer Halin recalls a spring day school outing when she was 6 in her hometown of Ejina, in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region. A nomad passed by, bowed and addressed her as "dear princess" -startling her classmates. She is from one of the four major subgroups of the Four Qirats of Mongolia, and her mother's father was prince of the 13th generation of the Torghut clan.
The clan moved west to Volga in 1630 after the Four Qirat Alliance collapsed and returned to Mongolia in 1771.
The group of about 300,000 people and 6 million animals suffered from raids and starvation, and was reduced to just 85,000 survivors after eight months, before settling near the Ejin River.
"I have been called 'princess' since I was born," says Halin, whose name in Mongolian means "flying high".
"My mother told me never to forget my identity. It's my faith," the 27-year-old, who now lives in Beijing, says.
"I grew up with the family legends and received a lot of respect because of my blood line. Though the times have changed and we live ordinary lives now, the spirit of our family still remains."
Friday, November 30, 2012
Bieber, Gaga dominate MTV awards in Belfast
LONDON - The MTV Europe Music Awards turned into a celebration of Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga Sunday night as the two picked up a number of top prizes, including best male and best female act.
Gaga, striking in several outfits throughout the evening, also won for best song and best video for "Born This Way." Bieber picked up best pop act as well.
Their live performances captured the differences between the two ascendant mega-stars: the teenage Bieber, wholesome and almost impossibly cute; Gaga challenging and aggressively sexual in her approach.
Other awards went to Bruno Mars, Eminem and Katy Perry while the band Queen received the "Global Icon" award, in effect a lifetime achievement award to the now-graying rockers, who closed the show with a spirited set of their classics, including "We Will Rock You" and "We Are the Champions."
It was a rousing end to the awards show, a highlight on the European music calendar that also draws A-list stars from the United States. It was held in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the first time.
Queen guitarist Brian May said the show focused attention on how Belfast had found "true peace" after years of sectarian violence.
"It's wonderful to be in Belfast," he said.
The show also included a video tribute to the late Amy Winehouse, who died earlier this year in London.
Gaga, striking in several outfits throughout the evening, also won for best song and best video for "Born This Way." Bieber picked up best pop act as well.
Their live performances captured the differences between the two ascendant mega-stars: the teenage Bieber, wholesome and almost impossibly cute; Gaga challenging and aggressively sexual in her approach.
Other awards went to Bruno Mars, Eminem and Katy Perry while the band Queen received the "Global Icon" award, in effect a lifetime achievement award to the now-graying rockers, who closed the show with a spirited set of their classics, including "We Will Rock You" and "We Are the Champions."
It was a rousing end to the awards show, a highlight on the European music calendar that also draws A-list stars from the United States. It was held in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the first time.
Queen guitarist Brian May said the show focused attention on how Belfast had found "true peace" after years of sectarian violence.
"It's wonderful to be in Belfast," he said.
The show also included a video tribute to the late Amy Winehouse, who died earlier this year in London.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
The sounds of Romance are in the air
Shenyang explains there was method, rather than mere madness, to his repertoire selection at the recently concluded Beijing Music Festival.
The bass-baritone performed works by not only the acclaimed names of the Romantic Austro-German lieder but also those by the genre's more obscure composers, such as Carl Loewe and Hugo Wolfe. He completed his performance with an encore of four Chinese songs - Xia Zhiqiu's Longing for Home, Chen Tianhe's In the Mountain, and Huang Zi's Plum Blossoms in the Snow and Flower in the Mist.
These four songs were composed between 1919 and 1945, which Shenyang calls "the era of Chinese Romanticism".
"Chinese people were exposed to the outside world after the last dynasty's fall, catalyzing an era of Romanticism in China more than 100 years after the West's," he says.
"These works aren't perfect but stand out because of their sincerity and passion."
As for the little-known foreign songs, he says, "I chose this program to provide a wider picture of the Romantic Austro-German lieder, so audiences can feel the influence of destiny and this historical era on composers."
The 2007 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World will perform three operas during the 2011-12 season. He'll stage Rodelinda and Don Giovanni with the Metropolitan Opera, and La Cenerentola with the Glyndebourne Festival Opera.
"I don't believe Western vocal music belongs solely to the West," the Juilliard School graduate says."I'm performing them against my own cultural background."
The bass-baritone performed works by not only the acclaimed names of the Romantic Austro-German lieder but also those by the genre's more obscure composers, such as Carl Loewe and Hugo Wolfe. He completed his performance with an encore of four Chinese songs - Xia Zhiqiu's Longing for Home, Chen Tianhe's In the Mountain, and Huang Zi's Plum Blossoms in the Snow and Flower in the Mist.
These four songs were composed between 1919 and 1945, which Shenyang calls "the era of Chinese Romanticism".
"Chinese people were exposed to the outside world after the last dynasty's fall, catalyzing an era of Romanticism in China more than 100 years after the West's," he says.
"These works aren't perfect but stand out because of their sincerity and passion."
As for the little-known foreign songs, he says, "I chose this program to provide a wider picture of the Romantic Austro-German lieder, so audiences can feel the influence of destiny and this historical era on composers."
The 2007 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World will perform three operas during the 2011-12 season. He'll stage Rodelinda and Don Giovanni with the Metropolitan Opera, and La Cenerentola with the Glyndebourne Festival Opera.
"I don't believe Western vocal music belongs solely to the West," the Juilliard School graduate says."I'm performing them against my own cultural background."
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Akon touching down
Akon's hard-edged hip-hop and catchy dance floor hits are on the menu for his first Chinese mainland tour, on Nov 4 at Beijing's Mastercard Center, Nov 5 at Shanghai's Mercedes Benz Arena and Nov 7 at Guangzhou Stadium.
The multi-platinum superstar, who is the boss and broker of Lady Gaga, will bring his hit songs including Mr Lonely, Right Now, Beautiful and Oh Africa, which he sang for the World Cup in South Africa 2010.
"We had a show set up a few years ago and had to cancel for some reasons, but I am excited to finally get the chance to visit China and be able to perform. I hope that I have time to explore," the 38-year-old singer-songwriter says in an e-mail interview.
As a songwriter and producer with his own record label, Akon has influenced the music industry behind the scenes by working with many of the world's biggest names, from Lady Gaga to Justin Bieber and Eminem.
He is credited with 45 Billboard Hot 100 songs since he first rose to prominence in 2004 with the release of Locked Up and has six Grammy nominations, an American Music Award for favorite male R&B artist and four World Music Awards. The prolific artist also made it onto Forbes' 2011 list of hip-hop top earners.
Akon says that balancing his roles as a boss and a singer is the core to win in the market. In order to stay fresh, he listens to "everything but what I do". Traveling also has given him plenty of inspiration.
"My past experiences have affected and will always affect my music," he says.
The multi-platinum superstar, who is the boss and broker of Lady Gaga, will bring his hit songs including Mr Lonely, Right Now, Beautiful and Oh Africa, which he sang for the World Cup in South Africa 2010.
"We had a show set up a few years ago and had to cancel for some reasons, but I am excited to finally get the chance to visit China and be able to perform. I hope that I have time to explore," the 38-year-old singer-songwriter says in an e-mail interview.
As a songwriter and producer with his own record label, Akon has influenced the music industry behind the scenes by working with many of the world's biggest names, from Lady Gaga to Justin Bieber and Eminem.
He is credited with 45 Billboard Hot 100 songs since he first rose to prominence in 2004 with the release of Locked Up and has six Grammy nominations, an American Music Award for favorite male R&B artist and four World Music Awards. The prolific artist also made it onto Forbes' 2011 list of hip-hop top earners.
Akon says that balancing his roles as a boss and a singer is the core to win in the market. In order to stay fresh, he listens to "everything but what I do". Traveling also has given him plenty of inspiration.
"My past experiences have affected and will always affect my music," he says.
Monday, November 26, 2012
All we had was our voice
The 1980s and 1990s were decades when mainland pop stars were nothing short of divas. They appeared at every kind of gala, and their tapes were everywhere. Of these, the most famous was Mao Amin, who was as much sought after for her silky smooth voice as her gorgeous onstage presence. So it came as quite a surprise to discover she seems utterly devoid of celebrity pretensions or airs, face to face. She still has the same friends as before she became famous and sees being a pop star as just another job, one that she says she is incredibly lucky to have.
She even credits the tax scandal of 1990, which broke out when she was at the peak of her career, and all but destroyed her reputation, with helping her become more musical.
When she returned to the stage in January 2010, for her first solo concert in a three-decade-long career, she proved her genius is still intact, a sentiment acknowledged by the rapturous applause of the full house.
The success of that concert led to the release of her latest album, Tune of Voice, after an eight-year gap.
"I was ready to stay at home, take care of my kids and be a full-time mother," says the 48-year-old singer, who put her career ambitions on the back burner for marriage and family after releasing the 2003 album, Perfect.
The new album's songs, written by veteran musicians, including San Bao and Lao Zai, capture the defining moments of her life, Mao says.
"I don't know if young audiences will understand the songs because some of the lyrics are poetic. But those who have grown up with me will," she says. "I just present a real me here."
Tune of Voice is packaged along with a remake of her 1986 classic album, Songs from Echo, in memory of the late Taiwan writer, Sanmao.
"During the days of my absence from the music circuit, I liked listening to this album again and again. It speaks to my youth, and I believe those songs have touched people my age."
Mao's early hits not only made her a regular at grand galas, such as the Spring Festival Gala, but also a popular voice of many mainland TV series, such as Yearning (1990), one of the most watched shows in the history of Chinese television.
She even credits the tax scandal of 1990, which broke out when she was at the peak of her career, and all but destroyed her reputation, with helping her become more musical.
When she returned to the stage in January 2010, for her first solo concert in a three-decade-long career, she proved her genius is still intact, a sentiment acknowledged by the rapturous applause of the full house.
The success of that concert led to the release of her latest album, Tune of Voice, after an eight-year gap.
"I was ready to stay at home, take care of my kids and be a full-time mother," says the 48-year-old singer, who put her career ambitions on the back burner for marriage and family after releasing the 2003 album, Perfect.
The new album's songs, written by veteran musicians, including San Bao and Lao Zai, capture the defining moments of her life, Mao says.
"I don't know if young audiences will understand the songs because some of the lyrics are poetic. But those who have grown up with me will," she says. "I just present a real me here."
Tune of Voice is packaged along with a remake of her 1986 classic album, Songs from Echo, in memory of the late Taiwan writer, Sanmao.
"During the days of my absence from the music circuit, I liked listening to this album again and again. It speaks to my youth, and I believe those songs have touched people my age."
Mao's early hits not only made her a regular at grand galas, such as the Spring Festival Gala, but also a popular voice of many mainland TV series, such as Yearning (1990), one of the most watched shows in the history of Chinese television.
Adele leads American Music Awards nominations
British singing star Adele continued her current pop reign with a leading four nominations for the 2011 American Music Awards announced on Tuesday, edging out the likes of Katy Perry and Lady Gaga.
Adele, 23, who was recently forced to cancel the remainder of her sold out U.S. tour due to a vocal chord hemorrhage, was nominated for favorite rock/pop female artist, adult contemporary artist, album with her "21" and artist of the year for the awards to be broadcast from Los Angeles on November 20.
Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Lil Wayne and country music group The Band Perry were nominated three times, followed by artists such as Bruno Mars and Beyonce with two nods each.
Besides Adele, other artist of the year contenders are Gaga, Wayne, Swift and Perry, whose album "Teenage Dream" two months ago achieved the rare distinction of having five singles reach the top of the Billboard's pop songs chart. Perry also will perform at the key music industry awards.
In other rock/pop music categories, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars and the U.S. rapper Pitbull will vie for favorite male artist, while Maroon 5, OneRepublic and the dance music group LMFAO are nominated for favorite band. Besides Adele's hit "21", favorite pop album nominations were shared by Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" and Rihanna's "Loud."
In rap/hip hop categories, Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Kanye West earned nods for favorite artist. "Watch The Throne" by West and Jay-Z, "The Carter IV" by Lil Wayne, and "Pink Friday" from Nicki Minaj were nominated for favorite album.
Country music nominees included Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley and Jason Aldean for favorite male artist and Sara Evans, Miranda Lambert and Taylor Swift for favorite female artist.
Chris Brown, Beyonce, Rihanna and Kelly Rowland were all nominated in the soul and R&B categories, and in the indie rock arena, The Black Keys, Foo Fighters and Mumford & Sons will compete for favorite artist.
Adele, 23, who was recently forced to cancel the remainder of her sold out U.S. tour due to a vocal chord hemorrhage, was nominated for favorite rock/pop female artist, adult contemporary artist, album with her "21" and artist of the year for the awards to be broadcast from Los Angeles on November 20.
Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Lil Wayne and country music group The Band Perry were nominated three times, followed by artists such as Bruno Mars and Beyonce with two nods each.
Besides Adele, other artist of the year contenders are Gaga, Wayne, Swift and Perry, whose album "Teenage Dream" two months ago achieved the rare distinction of having five singles reach the top of the Billboard's pop songs chart. Perry also will perform at the key music industry awards.
In other rock/pop music categories, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars and the U.S. rapper Pitbull will vie for favorite male artist, while Maroon 5, OneRepublic and the dance music group LMFAO are nominated for favorite band. Besides Adele's hit "21", favorite pop album nominations were shared by Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" and Rihanna's "Loud."
In rap/hip hop categories, Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Kanye West earned nods for favorite artist. "Watch The Throne" by West and Jay-Z, "The Carter IV" by Lil Wayne, and "Pink Friday" from Nicki Minaj were nominated for favorite album.
Country music nominees included Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley and Jason Aldean for favorite male artist and Sara Evans, Miranda Lambert and Taylor Swift for favorite female artist.
Chris Brown, Beyonce, Rihanna and Kelly Rowland were all nominated in the soul and R&B categories, and in the indie rock arena, The Black Keys, Foo Fighters and Mumford & Sons will compete for favorite artist.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Jackson children dance to his music at tribute gig
Tens of thousands of fans rocked to the hits of Michael Jackson on Saturday at a tribute concert his brothers hoped would put the spotlight on his musical legacy after so much controversy.
The late singer's children -- Prince, 14, Paris, 13 and "Blanket," 9 -- appeared on stage briefly to address the crowd and at the end joined other family members dancing to "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough."
"We're very happy to be here on this special night to honor our father," said Paris, dressed in a red jacket similar to the one worn by Jackson in his groundbreaking "Thriller" music video.
The "Beat It" star, one of the most successful yet troubled artists of the pop era, died in 2009 aged 50 while rehearsing for a series of comeback concerts.
The "Michael Forever" tribute in Cardiff, Wales, coincides with the involuntary manslaughter trial of the singer's doctor in Los Angeles, drawing criticism from some fans and members of his family.
Brothers Jermaine and Randy boycotted the event because of the timing, while sister Janet said it would be too painful to perform in Cardiff during the trial.
But it had the blessing of his mother Katherine, who was at the gig, and Michael's older brother Marlon said it should be seen as a celebration of Jackson's music.
"They (the fans) have the right to (protest)," he said backstage. "I think they have the right to do whatever they feel, but we're celebrating the positive side of our brother's life.
"We know our brother better than anybody else and he would love that we are doing this for him and remembering him in that way."
The late singer's children -- Prince, 14, Paris, 13 and "Blanket," 9 -- appeared on stage briefly to address the crowd and at the end joined other family members dancing to "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough."
"We're very happy to be here on this special night to honor our father," said Paris, dressed in a red jacket similar to the one worn by Jackson in his groundbreaking "Thriller" music video.
The "Beat It" star, one of the most successful yet troubled artists of the pop era, died in 2009 aged 50 while rehearsing for a series of comeback concerts.
The "Michael Forever" tribute in Cardiff, Wales, coincides with the involuntary manslaughter trial of the singer's doctor in Los Angeles, drawing criticism from some fans and members of his family.
Brothers Jermaine and Randy boycotted the event because of the timing, while sister Janet said it would be too painful to perform in Cardiff during the trial.
But it had the blessing of his mother Katherine, who was at the gig, and Michael's older brother Marlon said it should be seen as a celebration of Jackson's music.
"They (the fans) have the right to (protest)," he said backstage. "I think they have the right to do whatever they feel, but we're celebrating the positive side of our brother's life.
"We know our brother better than anybody else and he would love that we are doing this for him and remembering him in that way."
Noel Gallagher slams publicity hungry Lady Gaga
Noel Gallagher has blasted Lady Gaga - claiming her career is based on "meat suits" and "controversy".
The 'AKA. What A Life' singer thinks the 'Bad Romance' star is good at getting attention, but he doesn't think her music will stand the test of time.
He said: "It's all about the meat suit and the controversy. Is it about music? Really? She's got the publicity side sorted, but where's the music.
"Her album gets played a lot around my house by my daughter and it's Madonna-lite. Madonna was hardcore. She took it to the edge musically as well as everything else.
"Twenty years from now, will we listen to Lady Gaga? No. She might think she is making a stand for the freaks and the weirdos. But they're not going to have any decent music to play are they?"
The former Oasis star - who has an 11-year-old daughter Anais with his ex-wife Meg Matthews and two sons, three-year-old Donovan and 10-month-old Sonny, with his current spouse Sara MacDonald - is disappointed that most current rock bands have nothing interesting to say and laments the lack of a "focal point" for rock 'n' roll.
He added in an interview with Q magazine: "Who will retell the rock 'n' roll story for a new generation? The problem with bands these days is half of them get the music right but you read an interview and think, 'I can't buy into them as people.'
"It's become this prevailing thing where, 'It's all about the music.' It's not. It's more than that. The way you look or what you say or what you stand for is crucial. People are so wary of being the spokesman for a generation. It's a tag, but still . I wish someone would provide a focal point."
The 'AKA. What A Life' singer thinks the 'Bad Romance' star is good at getting attention, but he doesn't think her music will stand the test of time.
He said: "It's all about the meat suit and the controversy. Is it about music? Really? She's got the publicity side sorted, but where's the music.
"Her album gets played a lot around my house by my daughter and it's Madonna-lite. Madonna was hardcore. She took it to the edge musically as well as everything else.
"Twenty years from now, will we listen to Lady Gaga? No. She might think she is making a stand for the freaks and the weirdos. But they're not going to have any decent music to play are they?"
The former Oasis star - who has an 11-year-old daughter Anais with his ex-wife Meg Matthews and two sons, three-year-old Donovan and 10-month-old Sonny, with his current spouse Sara MacDonald - is disappointed that most current rock bands have nothing interesting to say and laments the lack of a "focal point" for rock 'n' roll.
He added in an interview with Q magazine: "Who will retell the rock 'n' roll story for a new generation? The problem with bands these days is half of them get the music right but you read an interview and think, 'I can't buy into them as people.'
"It's become this prevailing thing where, 'It's all about the music.' It's not. It's more than that. The way you look or what you say or what you stand for is crucial. People are so wary of being the spokesman for a generation. It's a tag, but still . I wish someone would provide a focal point."
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Michael Jackson saw salvation in dangerous drug
LOS ANGELES — Michael Jackson was physically exhausted from a day of grueling rehearsals for his marathon 50-night comeback tour. But his nightly battle with insomnia had just begun. After showering and getting into bed, he called for his "milk," a powerful drug he had been using to escape into unconsciousness.
Jackson saw the anesthetic known as propofol as his salvation. On June 25, 2009, it became the King of Pop's death potion.
How he overdosed in his mansion on a drug intended for hospital use is at the center of the manslaughter trial this week of the doctor he hired to be his highly paid personal physician for the "This is It" tour.
Testimony about the drug is expected to dominate the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, a Houston cardiologist who has pleaded not guilty to a charge of involuntary manslaughter in Los Angeles Superior Court.
The prosecution claims Murray was grossly negligent in giving Jackson propofol at home without proper lifesaving equipment available and then left the room long enough to find his patient not breathing when he returned.
His defense team claims the singer, desperate for sleep, swallowed an additional dose of the drug when his doctor was out of the room.
Getting to the truth of it will come down to sometimes technical testimony from an array of medical experts, pathologists and even the police officers and paramedics who inspected Murray's equipment in the bedroom where Jackson went into cardiac arrest.
The defense theory, based on evidence that a trace amount of propofol — .13 milligrams — was found in Jackson's stomach, may be a hard sell.
The drug is administered intravenously, usually during surgery. Scientific witnesses may be asked to explain how it could have gotten into his stomach. Some doctors say ingesting it orally is almost unheard of.
Jackson saw the anesthetic known as propofol as his salvation. On June 25, 2009, it became the King of Pop's death potion.
How he overdosed in his mansion on a drug intended for hospital use is at the center of the manslaughter trial this week of the doctor he hired to be his highly paid personal physician for the "This is It" tour.
Testimony about the drug is expected to dominate the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, a Houston cardiologist who has pleaded not guilty to a charge of involuntary manslaughter in Los Angeles Superior Court.
The prosecution claims Murray was grossly negligent in giving Jackson propofol at home without proper lifesaving equipment available and then left the room long enough to find his patient not breathing when he returned.
His defense team claims the singer, desperate for sleep, swallowed an additional dose of the drug when his doctor was out of the room.
Getting to the truth of it will come down to sometimes technical testimony from an array of medical experts, pathologists and even the police officers and paramedics who inspected Murray's equipment in the bedroom where Jackson went into cardiac arrest.
The defense theory, based on evidence that a trace amount of propofol — .13 milligrams — was found in Jackson's stomach, may be a hard sell.
The drug is administered intravenously, usually during surgery. Scientific witnesses may be asked to explain how it could have gotten into his stomach. Some doctors say ingesting it orally is almost unheard of.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Pete Wentz dating mystery brunette
Pete Wentz is dating a mystery brunette.
The former Fall Out Boy rocker – who split from wife Ashlee Simpson in February – stepped out with his two-year-old son Bronx and his leggy new lady to visit a Los Angeles playground.
A source told E! News: "She's a model and it's a new relationship. They're taking things slowly but he obviously thinks highly of her to introduce her to Bronx."
The couple were pictured holding hands in the park and he also took her on a date to Katsuya Hollywood restaurant on Sept 19 where he set about impressing her by ordering the most expensive bottle of sake spirit on the menu.
Pete, 32, also cryptically tweeted earlier this week: "You always get to make the decision to be a bright light in someone's life or enhancing their own darkness. Don't complain when you pick wrong."
Ashlee, 26, has also showed she is moving on from the marriage this week, appearing at the Emmy awards with 'Boardwalk Empire' actor Vincent Piazza, where the couple gave a very public display of affection.
The former Fall Out Boy rocker – who split from wife Ashlee Simpson in February – stepped out with his two-year-old son Bronx and his leggy new lady to visit a Los Angeles playground.
A source told E! News: "She's a model and it's a new relationship. They're taking things slowly but he obviously thinks highly of her to introduce her to Bronx."
The couple were pictured holding hands in the park and he also took her on a date to Katsuya Hollywood restaurant on Sept 19 where he set about impressing her by ordering the most expensive bottle of sake spirit on the menu.
Pete, 32, also cryptically tweeted earlier this week: "You always get to make the decision to be a bright light in someone's life or enhancing their own darkness. Don't complain when you pick wrong."
Ashlee, 26, has also showed she is moving on from the marriage this week, appearing at the Emmy awards with 'Boardwalk Empire' actor Vincent Piazza, where the couple gave a very public display of affection.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
One Direction top single album charts
Boy band One Direction topped Britain's singles and album charts on Sunday, outselling new releases from rock veterans Rod Stewart and the Rolling Stones, the Official Charts Company said.
The English-Irish quintet shot to number one in the album charts with "Take Me Home", with one of its tracks, "Little Things", also taking first place in the singles rankings.
Singer Rod Stewart had to settle for number two for his new collection of seasonal classics "Merry Christmas Baby", while the Rolling Stones were third with their 50th anniversary compilation "GRRR!".
Also new in the album lists were British tenor Alfie Boe at number six with "Storyteller", while American punk band Green Day entered in tenth place with "¡Dos!".
American singer Bruno Mars took second place in the singles charts with "Locked Out Of Heaven", just ahead of "DNA" at number three from British girl group Little Mix.
The English-Irish quintet shot to number one in the album charts with "Take Me Home", with one of its tracks, "Little Things", also taking first place in the singles rankings.
Singer Rod Stewart had to settle for number two for his new collection of seasonal classics "Merry Christmas Baby", while the Rolling Stones were third with their 50th anniversary compilation "GRRR!".
Also new in the album lists were British tenor Alfie Boe at number six with "Storyteller", while American punk band Green Day entered in tenth place with "¡Dos!".
American singer Bruno Mars took second place in the singles charts with "Locked Out Of Heaven", just ahead of "DNA" at number three from British girl group Little Mix.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Chen Liyuan sings about home
Chen Liyuan, a young soloist from China Coal Mind Art Troupe, announced the release of her first album "The Moon Homeland" in Beijing.
Chen, known for her physical resemblance to famous Chinese singer Song Zuying, studied under Meng Ling of People's Liberation Army Institute of Arts and Jin Tielin of China Conservatory of Music.
Chen's new record was created by CA&VA RC (Beijing), published by China Record Shenzhen Corporation and released by Starwin Culture Communication.
Produced by the renowned music producer Zou Tiefu, the new record has 13 tracks including original songs and classic tunes. "Home" was the theme of the album and Chen sang mostly about the scenery and longing for one's hometown. Chen was praised for her mastery of techniques and emotion put into her renditions of the tracks.
Chen performed "The moon homeland" and showed its music video at the event. The video will be aired on CCTV-3 (Entertainment) and CCTV-15 (Music) channels soon.
Chen hopes that the release of her album will spur reflections and thoughts for people away from their homes during the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival - a traditional Chinese festival that celebrates reunions- just like her.
She also wished to send her best wishes to those who cannot return home through her passion and devotion to music.
Chen, known for her physical resemblance to famous Chinese singer Song Zuying, studied under Meng Ling of People's Liberation Army Institute of Arts and Jin Tielin of China Conservatory of Music.
Chen's new record was created by CA&VA RC (Beijing), published by China Record Shenzhen Corporation and released by Starwin Culture Communication.
Produced by the renowned music producer Zou Tiefu, the new record has 13 tracks including original songs and classic tunes. "Home" was the theme of the album and Chen sang mostly about the scenery and longing for one's hometown. Chen was praised for her mastery of techniques and emotion put into her renditions of the tracks.
Chen performed "The moon homeland" and showed its music video at the event. The video will be aired on CCTV-3 (Entertainment) and CCTV-15 (Music) channels soon.
Chen hopes that the release of her album will spur reflections and thoughts for people away from their homes during the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival - a traditional Chinese festival that celebrates reunions- just like her.
She also wished to send her best wishes to those who cannot return home through her passion and devotion to music.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Paul McCartney teams up with Decca label at last
The ballet, "Ocean's Kingdom," is the former Beatle's first foray into the world of dance, and has its world premiere at the New York City Ballet on September 22. There will be four additional performances in September and five more in January.
The Decca recording hits shelves in Britain on October 3.
Decca famously snubbed the Fab Four early in 1962, reportedly saying at the time that "guitar groups are on the way out" and "the Beatles have no future in showbusiness."
The quartet from Liverpool went on to sign with EMI label Parlophone and became arguably the most successful and influential pop band in history.
"Ocean's Kingdom," commissioned by the New York City Ballet, is conducted by John Wilson and performed by the London Classical Orchestra.
When he decided to write a ballet, McCartney visited the Royal Opera House in London and saw "Giselle," meeting the dancers of the Royal Ballet afterward to discuss the work.
McCartney's ballet tells of a love story set in an underwater world where people are threatened by humans. The score lasts an hour and is divided into four movements -- Ocean's Kingdom, Hall of Dance, Imprisonment and Moonrise.
In a statement, the 69-year-old singer/songwriter said he was "trying to write something that expressed an emotion -- so you have fear, love, anger, sadness to play with, and I found that exciting and challenging."
McCartney has written classical music before, including the award-winning choral work "Ecce Cor Meum."
The Decca recording hits shelves in Britain on October 3.
Decca famously snubbed the Fab Four early in 1962, reportedly saying at the time that "guitar groups are on the way out" and "the Beatles have no future in showbusiness."
The quartet from Liverpool went on to sign with EMI label Parlophone and became arguably the most successful and influential pop band in history.
"Ocean's Kingdom," commissioned by the New York City Ballet, is conducted by John Wilson and performed by the London Classical Orchestra.
When he decided to write a ballet, McCartney visited the Royal Opera House in London and saw "Giselle," meeting the dancers of the Royal Ballet afterward to discuss the work.
McCartney's ballet tells of a love story set in an underwater world where people are threatened by humans. The score lasts an hour and is divided into four movements -- Ocean's Kingdom, Hall of Dance, Imprisonment and Moonrise.
In a statement, the 69-year-old singer/songwriter said he was "trying to write something that expressed an emotion -- so you have fear, love, anger, sadness to play with, and I found that exciting and challenging."
McCartney has written classical music before, including the award-winning choral work "Ecce Cor Meum."
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Jackson fans say tribute concert doomed to fail
A group of 35 Michael Jackson fan clubs have joined forces to lobby for the cancellation of a Michael Jackson tribute concert, saying the October event is "doomed to fail".
In an open letter to organizers Global Live Events, the fan clubs representing thousands of die-hard Jackson followers in Europe, Australia, China and Russia, said they had multiple concerns with the October8 event in Wales.
These ranged from confusion over charitable donations to the timing of the concert during the scheduled involuntary manslaughter trial in Los Angeles of the singer's doctor.
Organizers on Monday announced that Beyonce would sing one song via satellite at the "Michael Forever Tribute." Other headliners include Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson and Cee Lo Green who are due to perform a Jackson hit along with their own songs. Ticket prices range from 55 to 240 pounds (about$90-$390).
Last week, organizers were forced to oust rock band Kiss from the line-up after Jackson fans recalled that frontman Gene Simmons called the "Thriller" singer a child molester last year.
Jackson, who died in Los Angeles in June 2009 at age 50, was acquitted of all charges in a 2005 child sex abuse trial.
"From the timing of this tribute...to the ticketing prices, to the obscurity over what charities will be receiving the donation, to the no-guarantee policy of performers, the addition of Gene Simmons and dishonoring, thus tarnishing Michael Jackson's legacy was simply the last straw," said the letter from the 80,000 strong members of MJJ Community, and more than 30 other fan clubs.
"Please understand that this concert is doomed to fail now...Do the right thing for Michael Jackson and cancel this tribute," said the letter, posted on the Fans against Michael Forever Tribute Facebook page.
In an open letter to organizers Global Live Events, the fan clubs representing thousands of die-hard Jackson followers in Europe, Australia, China and Russia, said they had multiple concerns with the October8 event in Wales.
These ranged from confusion over charitable donations to the timing of the concert during the scheduled involuntary manslaughter trial in Los Angeles of the singer's doctor.
Organizers on Monday announced that Beyonce would sing one song via satellite at the "Michael Forever Tribute." Other headliners include Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson and Cee Lo Green who are due to perform a Jackson hit along with their own songs. Ticket prices range from 55 to 240 pounds (about$90-$390).
Last week, organizers were forced to oust rock band Kiss from the line-up after Jackson fans recalled that frontman Gene Simmons called the "Thriller" singer a child molester last year.
Jackson, who died in Los Angeles in June 2009 at age 50, was acquitted of all charges in a 2005 child sex abuse trial.
"From the timing of this tribute...to the ticketing prices, to the obscurity over what charities will be receiving the donation, to the no-guarantee policy of performers, the addition of Gene Simmons and dishonoring, thus tarnishing Michael Jackson's legacy was simply the last straw," said the letter from the 80,000 strong members of MJJ Community, and more than 30 other fan clubs.
"Please understand that this concert is doomed to fail now...Do the right thing for Michael Jackson and cancel this tribute," said the letter, posted on the Fans against Michael Forever Tribute Facebook page.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
All I have is my voice
Na Ying's new concert, like her new album released after nine years, is appropriately titled, Na You Zen Yang, or So What. The mainland's queen of pop says that title captures her daring and optimistic outlook on life. The 44-year-old singer, who has sold more than 10 million albums, says she is in total control of her life and her astonishing 25-year career. For more than two decades, she has stayed in the spotlight by retreating every once in a while to recharge herself.
Na's influence on the mainland pop music scene is a continuous one, from the 1980s to the present. From the folk-pop music of northwest China, the inspiration for her wildly popular 1980 song Xibeifeng, to Cantonese pop and Western music, Na has constantly sought to reinvent herself.
In Beijing recently to promote her upcoming concert and new album, she is a picture of confidence and fitness and cuts a slim figure in a white silk dress.
"I spend at least three hours a day in the gym. My husband loves going to the gym, and this has influenced me," she smiles. "I used to hate the gym even though I had to battle my weight for years. But now I enjoy sweating."
When her fans call her a legend, she laughs loudly. "I always know you are there, no matter what I do, whether I sing or not," she says to her screaming fans. "Now I am ready for my comeback.
"I just follow my feelings to make decisions," she says explaining the reason for her long break from the pop music scene. For the decade that she's been away, she got married, gave birth to two children, and played full-time mother and wife.
"Now I feel like singing again," she says, smoothing her clean short hair.
Na and her record company started preparing for the new album in 2010. She cooperated with Golden Melody Award-winning Singaporean singer-songwriter Tanya Chua for its songs.
While the concert she held on the last day of 2009, to mark the 20th anniversary of her singing career, featured a number of her signature songs, the upcoming concert will represent a fresh start. However, she is confident her silky, sometimes haunting, voice will continue to tug at her fans' heartstrings.
Na's influence on the mainland pop music scene is a continuous one, from the 1980s to the present. From the folk-pop music of northwest China, the inspiration for her wildly popular 1980 song Xibeifeng, to Cantonese pop and Western music, Na has constantly sought to reinvent herself.
In Beijing recently to promote her upcoming concert and new album, she is a picture of confidence and fitness and cuts a slim figure in a white silk dress.
"I spend at least three hours a day in the gym. My husband loves going to the gym, and this has influenced me," she smiles. "I used to hate the gym even though I had to battle my weight for years. But now I enjoy sweating."
When her fans call her a legend, she laughs loudly. "I always know you are there, no matter what I do, whether I sing or not," she says to her screaming fans. "Now I am ready for my comeback.
"I just follow my feelings to make decisions," she says explaining the reason for her long break from the pop music scene. For the decade that she's been away, she got married, gave birth to two children, and played full-time mother and wife.
"Now I feel like singing again," she says, smoothing her clean short hair.
Na and her record company started preparing for the new album in 2010. She cooperated with Golden Melody Award-winning Singaporean singer-songwriter Tanya Chua for its songs.
While the concert she held on the last day of 2009, to mark the 20th anniversary of her singing career, featured a number of her signature songs, the upcoming concert will represent a fresh start. However, she is confident her silky, sometimes haunting, voice will continue to tug at her fans' heartstrings.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Jackson concert promoters remove Kiss from lineup
The announcement Tuesday came a day after Global Live Events announced Kiss would join the show planned for Oct. 8 in Cardiff, Wales. Fans, media and the singer's estate quickly noted that Simmons has said in recent years that he was convinced Jackson molested children. Some of the critical comments came within days of Jackson's June 2009 death.
Jackson was acquitted of molestation charges after a 2005 trial in California.
Some of Simmons' harshest comments came last year in an interview with Classic Rock magazine. "Well, you know, where there's smoke there's fire," Simmons said regarding accusations that Jackson abused young boys. "There's no question in my mind he molested those kids. Not a doubt."
Global Events Live CEO Chris Hunt accepted blame, calling Kiss' booking an "oversight."
"Under the circumstances, we fully agree that even though Kiss is a band Michael admired, we have no choice but to rescind our invitation to them to appear in our tribute concert," Hunt wrote in a statement.
A spokeswoman for the band was not immediately available for comment.
It is the latest stumble for a show that is endorsed by Jackson's mother and several siblings but is opposed by brothers Jermaine and Randy. The brothers have noted that the show is scheduled to happen during the involuntary manslaughter trial of a doctor charged in Michael Jackson's death.
Jackson was acquitted of molestation charges after a 2005 trial in California.
Some of Simmons' harshest comments came last year in an interview with Classic Rock magazine. "Well, you know, where there's smoke there's fire," Simmons said regarding accusations that Jackson abused young boys. "There's no question in my mind he molested those kids. Not a doubt."
Global Events Live CEO Chris Hunt accepted blame, calling Kiss' booking an "oversight."
"Under the circumstances, we fully agree that even though Kiss is a band Michael admired, we have no choice but to rescind our invitation to them to appear in our tribute concert," Hunt wrote in a statement.
A spokeswoman for the band was not immediately available for comment.
It is the latest stumble for a show that is endorsed by Jackson's mother and several siblings but is opposed by brothers Jermaine and Randy. The brothers have noted that the show is scheduled to happen during the involuntary manslaughter trial of a doctor charged in Michael Jackson's death.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Glee The 3D Concert Movie not just about music
LOS ANGELES - Concert movies typically offer a peek into the private moments of a pop star's life. "Michael Jackson: This Is It" revealed the entertainer's perfectionist tendencies, and sly sense of humor. "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never" showed the teen singer's drive for success.
"It would have been completely disconnected from what made (the show) extremely popular if it had turned into, 'Oh, look at Lea Michele and Cory Monteith and Harry Shum Jr. be superstars and rehearse and do press and record and go on tour,'" Tancharoen said.
"That's why I think it's different from those other concert films," he continued. "Those are all rock stars and musicians, and these are characters who mean something different to everybody else. They are extremely talented and they all sing very well and perform very well, and that's another big part of the show that was very popular, so we kind of wanted to mix all that stuff together to make this 3-D concert experience."
In addition to on-stage performances of songs such as "Teenage Dream" and "I'm a Slave 4 U," the film also shows its stars giving backstage interviews in character. In one segment, Michele's character, the spotlight-loving Rachel Berry, explains her pre-performance ritual of drinking "lukewarm hot water."
"I feel like I did a nice blend of Rachel and of Lea while I was onstage performing," Michele said Saturday. "We are our characters, but at the same time when we walk on stage, we are ourselves."
"It would have been completely disconnected from what made (the show) extremely popular if it had turned into, 'Oh, look at Lea Michele and Cory Monteith and Harry Shum Jr. be superstars and rehearse and do press and record and go on tour,'" Tancharoen said.
"That's why I think it's different from those other concert films," he continued. "Those are all rock stars and musicians, and these are characters who mean something different to everybody else. They are extremely talented and they all sing very well and perform very well, and that's another big part of the show that was very popular, so we kind of wanted to mix all that stuff together to make this 3-D concert experience."
In addition to on-stage performances of songs such as "Teenage Dream" and "I'm a Slave 4 U," the film also shows its stars giving backstage interviews in character. In one segment, Michele's character, the spotlight-loving Rachel Berry, explains her pre-performance ritual of drinking "lukewarm hot water."
"I feel like I did a nice blend of Rachel and of Lea while I was onstage performing," Michele said Saturday. "We are our characters, but at the same time when we walk on stage, we are ourselves."
Friday, November 9, 2012
JJ Lin signs contract with Warner Music
Singer JJ Lin, of Singapore, signed a contract with Warner Music at a news conference in Beijing on August 8, 2011. Lin, in a red suit at the conference, called it a new start for him. Lin said he wanted to know more people and make positive changes to his environment, so he didn't continue his previous contract. He had been with Ocean Butterflies for eight years.
Lachie Rutherford, president of Warner Music Asia Pacific, and Sam Chen, president of the China market of Warner Music attended the conference to show their appreciation for JJ Lin. Sam Chen gave Lin a piano ornament decorated with crystal as welcome present. Lanchie said they have known each other and they have "talked about music, songs and the future."
Singers at Warner Music including Jolin Tsai, Khalil Fong and F.I.R expressed their greetings of welcome through VCR and JJ Lin said he expected to cooperate with them in music.
Lachie Rutherford, president of Warner Music Asia Pacific, and Sam Chen, president of the China market of Warner Music attended the conference to show their appreciation for JJ Lin. Sam Chen gave Lin a piano ornament decorated with crystal as welcome present. Lanchie said they have known each other and they have "talked about music, songs and the future."
Singers at Warner Music including Jolin Tsai, Khalil Fong and F.I.R expressed their greetings of welcome through VCR and JJ Lin said he expected to cooperate with them in music.
Chinese Orchestra performs at Austria Salzburg Festival
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The China Central Chinese Orchestra performed Friday at the 91st Salzburg Festival, the first time a traditional Chinese music group played at the world-renowned event.
The state-level group presented music from both China and the West, including The Moon Over a Fountain, My Motherland, Swan,Festival Overture and Tritsch Tratsch Polka.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Austria. Austria's literature and art community cherished very much the orchestra's arrival at the festival.
"I am sure that your performance at the Salzburg Festival will deepen understanding and friendship between the two peoples," Austrian President Heinz Fischer said in a written address.
While meeting the group, Salzburg Mayor Heinz Schaden said Chinese music has a long tradition and he was confident the performance would bring more understanding of that to Austrians.
The performance was a good start to promoting important cultural exchanges between the two countries, he said.
Orchestra chair Xi Qiang told Xinhua that Chinese music uses ethnic aroma, in particular beautiful melodies, to express some of the characteristics of traditional Chinese culture.
the lute, urheen, bamboo flute, Ruan and many other traditional Chinese music instruments have created a unique spiritual musical realm for audience so that they can feel the rich connotation of Chinese folk music, Xi said.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Katy Perry Teenage Dream make Billboard history
Pop princess Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" reached a new height this week as "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" became the album's fifth single to reach the top of Billboard's pop songs chart, marking the first time any album has amassed such a feat in its 19-year history.
If Perry's newest No. 1 also lands atop the Hot 100 later this week, "Teenage Dream" will be the only album other than Michael Jackson's "Bad" to generate five separate No. 1s. "Bad" was released in 1987, before Billboard began issuing the pop song chart.
Prior to "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" reaching No. 1, "Teenage Dream" was tied with Justin Timberlake's "FutureSex/LoveSounds" (2006-07) and Lady Gaga's "The Fame" (2009) which both had four singles snag the top spot.
"Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" became not only Perry's fifth No. 1 off "Teenage Dream" but her seventh overall, tying her with Lady Gaga for second-most No. 1s since the chart's inception. Rihanna currently holds the record with eight.
If Perry's newest No. 1 also lands atop the Hot 100 later this week, "Teenage Dream" will be the only album other than Michael Jackson's "Bad" to generate five separate No. 1s. "Bad" was released in 1987, before Billboard began issuing the pop song chart.
Prior to "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" reaching No. 1, "Teenage Dream" was tied with Justin Timberlake's "FutureSex/LoveSounds" (2006-07) and Lady Gaga's "The Fame" (2009) which both had four singles snag the top spot.
"Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" became not only Perry's fifth No. 1 off "Teenage Dream" but her seventh overall, tying her with Lady Gaga for second-most No. 1s since the chart's inception. Rihanna currently holds the record with eight.
Rare John Lennon letter to Eric Clapton up for auction
John Lennon held out the promise he could bring out more musical greatness in legendary guitarist Eric Clapton in a letter that could fetch as much as $30,000 when it is sold at auction next month, the organizers of the sale said on Monday.
The signed, hand-written letter by the Beatle, who died in 1980 at the age of 40, is one of a selection from some of the world's great musicians that will go under the hammer in Los Angeles at the Profiles in History auction on December 18.
In a draft letter dated September 29, 1971, Lennon expressed his respect and admiration for British guitarist Clapton and suggested that they form a band together.
"Eric, I know I can bring out something great, in fact greater in you that had been so far evident in your music. I hope to bring out the same kind of greatness in all of us, which I know will happen if/when we get together," Lennon wrote in the letter.
The signed, hand-written letter by the Beatle, who died in 1980 at the age of 40, is one of a selection from some of the world's great musicians that will go under the hammer in Los Angeles at the Profiles in History auction on December 18.
In a draft letter dated September 29, 1971, Lennon expressed his respect and admiration for British guitarist Clapton and suggested that they form a band together.
"Eric, I know I can bring out something great, in fact greater in you that had been so far evident in your music. I hope to bring out the same kind of greatness in all of us, which I know will happen if/when we get together," Lennon wrote in the letter.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Cole said Winehouse shouldn't have been trying to perform
Her treatment facility gave her a brief reprieve so she could perform for a worldwide audience and receive her accolades.
Cole said the entire episode sent a bad message. "Her life was at stake. I mean, she was trying to get off heroin, which is probably one of the most difficult drugs to recover from," Cole said.
"I just don't get it. What more can we do other than everybody needs to grow up? Hollywood needs to grow up and stop glorifying this kind of behavior and thinking it's cute," she said.
Cole said Winehouse shouldn't have been trying to perform, given her condition. Winehouse had been in and out of rehab and battled a host of problems since her Grammy triumph, had not released another album and was performing only sporadically.
Pax Prentiss, founder of the Malibu, Calif.-based Passages treatment center, said it's often in an addicted performer's best interest to be working, rather than living an unstructured lifestyle without getting help.
"It keeps them busy. ... I don't think it's good to have idle time," said Prentiss, a former addict himself. "But in saying that, Amy was not ready to go back to work. ... She clearly was not ready for the stage, or for life in general."
Winehouse's management and record label did not respond to requests seeking comment for this story.
Prentiss said Winehouse's problem may have been that the underlying causes leading her to take drugs were not dealt with. But he added that he didn't think the music industry "should try and manage Amy's personal life."
Cole disagreed. She said the industry has a responsibility to step in and push an artist out of the spotlight until they get their personal act together.
Cole said the entire episode sent a bad message. "Her life was at stake. I mean, she was trying to get off heroin, which is probably one of the most difficult drugs to recover from," Cole said.
"I just don't get it. What more can we do other than everybody needs to grow up? Hollywood needs to grow up and stop glorifying this kind of behavior and thinking it's cute," she said.
Cole said Winehouse shouldn't have been trying to perform, given her condition. Winehouse had been in and out of rehab and battled a host of problems since her Grammy triumph, had not released another album and was performing only sporadically.
Pax Prentiss, founder of the Malibu, Calif.-based Passages treatment center, said it's often in an addicted performer's best interest to be working, rather than living an unstructured lifestyle without getting help.
"It keeps them busy. ... I don't think it's good to have idle time," said Prentiss, a former addict himself. "But in saying that, Amy was not ready to go back to work. ... She clearly was not ready for the stage, or for life in general."
Winehouse's management and record label did not respond to requests seeking comment for this story.
Prentiss said Winehouse's problem may have been that the underlying causes leading her to take drugs were not dealt with. But he added that he didn't think the music industry "should try and manage Amy's personal life."
Cole disagreed. She said the industry has a responsibility to step in and push an artist out of the spotlight until they get their personal act together.
Should the music industry have tried to save Amy
Most entertainers prepare for a concert tour with rehearsals. For Amy Winehouse, it was rehab.
Just before her disastrous European tour last month, the infamously addicted singer entered a rehabilitation center on doctor's orders, ostensibly to ensure that she would be ready to perform. She left a week later, with her publicist announcing she was "raring to go."
She clearly wasn't. At the concert's kickoff June 18 in Belgrade, Serbia, Winehouse struggled to remember the words to her songs, stumbled around the stage and even tried to get one of her background singers to warble for her.
Her tour was soon canceled. A little over a month later, she was dead.
There's a long history, to be sure, of performers who wither away due to addiction while the world watches, but Winehouse's death Saturday at age 27 has rekindled questions about the role the music industry should play in helping stars kick self-destructive habits.
Why, for example, was Winehouse still being booked for concerts even though she was battling a devastating addiction? Could the entertainment community have done more to save one of its most gifted young artists?
A former heroin addict herself, Cole was critical of the industry after Winehouse won five Grammys in 2008, including record and song of the year for "Rehab," the song where Winehouse rebuffed help for addiction.
Winehouse performed triumphantly during the Grammy telecast that year — but did so via satellite from London, in part because she couldn't get a visa to come to the United States, and also because she was in rehab at the time.
Just before her disastrous European tour last month, the infamously addicted singer entered a rehabilitation center on doctor's orders, ostensibly to ensure that she would be ready to perform. She left a week later, with her publicist announcing she was "raring to go."
She clearly wasn't. At the concert's kickoff June 18 in Belgrade, Serbia, Winehouse struggled to remember the words to her songs, stumbled around the stage and even tried to get one of her background singers to warble for her.
Her tour was soon canceled. A little over a month later, she was dead.
There's a long history, to be sure, of performers who wither away due to addiction while the world watches, but Winehouse's death Saturday at age 27 has rekindled questions about the role the music industry should play in helping stars kick self-destructive habits.
Why, for example, was Winehouse still being booked for concerts even though she was battling a devastating addiction? Could the entertainment community have done more to save one of its most gifted young artists?
A former heroin addict herself, Cole was critical of the industry after Winehouse won five Grammys in 2008, including record and song of the year for "Rehab," the song where Winehouse rebuffed help for addiction.
Winehouse performed triumphantly during the Grammy telecast that year — but did so via satellite from London, in part because she couldn't get a visa to come to the United States, and also because she was in rehab at the time.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Katy Perry says good people help handle fame
Katy Perry believes keeping "good people around" helps her deal with the pressures of being one of the world's biggest pop stars, which currently has her on a global concert tour and taking part in her first movie.
As the music world mourns the death of British singer Amy Winehouse, Perry told Reuters she is not tempted by the hedonistic lifestyle that has helped fuel the demise of talented performers before her.
Perry, whose hits include "Teenage Dream" and "Firework," said she is able to stay away from the wild, party life with the help of honest, supportive people around her, such as her British actor/comedian husband Russell Brand, himself a recovering drug addict who is now clean and sober.
"I like to keep good people around me, people that aren't always 'yes' people, people that sometimes it's difficult to be around because they're not 'yes' people," she told Reuters.
"My husband is definitely one of those, he keeps me accountable and, you know, he's not a fan, even though he is a fan...he supports me and loves me but he doesn't bullshit me, which is really important."
The 26-year-old California native, who is one year younger than Winehouse, tweeted on Saturday when Winehouse was found dead in her London apartment, "RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace".
Brand said on his website that his old friend Winehouse was a "genius" and recalled sharing with her the "disease of addiction," referring to both their public battles with drinking and drug use.
As the music world mourns the death of British singer Amy Winehouse, Perry told Reuters she is not tempted by the hedonistic lifestyle that has helped fuel the demise of talented performers before her.
Perry, whose hits include "Teenage Dream" and "Firework," said she is able to stay away from the wild, party life with the help of honest, supportive people around her, such as her British actor/comedian husband Russell Brand, himself a recovering drug addict who is now clean and sober.
"I like to keep good people around me, people that aren't always 'yes' people, people that sometimes it's difficult to be around because they're not 'yes' people," she told Reuters.
"My husband is definitely one of those, he keeps me accountable and, you know, he's not a fan, even though he is a fan...he supports me and loves me but he doesn't bullshit me, which is really important."
The 26-year-old California native, who is one year younger than Winehouse, tweeted on Saturday when Winehouse was found dead in her London apartment, "RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace".
Brand said on his website that his old friend Winehouse was a "genius" and recalled sharing with her the "disease of addiction," referring to both their public battles with drinking and drug use.
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