Monday, February 28, 2011
Justin Bieber Is 'Really Growing Up,' Says 'Never Say Never' Director
Jon M. Chu says teen star is 'learning how to interact with people.'
By Eric Ditzian
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
MTV News first interviewed Justin Bieber in September of 2009, when the pint-size pop singer was on the cusp of breaking beyond his core audience into mainstream pop stardom. Then 15 years old and relatively new to the national media spotlight, Bieber wasn't nervous so much as generally tentative, a bit clipped and repetitive in his answers.
When Bieber walked into the MTV Newsroom earlier this month to promote the difference in his on-camera demeanor couldn't have been more different: He projected a breezy confidence, at times humorous or eye-on-the-prize focused, and was engaging throughout.
That Bieber has truly matured — not just as an artist, but as a person — isn't apparent only to those who occasionally cross his path. Jon M. Chu, who directed and began working with the singer in August, has noticed the change as well.
"With the movie and going to the Grammys and being respected on so many different levels beyond just his own fanbase, he's really growing up and learning how to interact with people," Chu said.
The director said he noted a great difference in the young star's disposition following the completion of his seven-month, 86-show tour.
"He's just had time to rest," said Chu, who started shooting "Never Say Never" as Bieber was in the midst of that nonstop North American tour. At first, Bieber was standoffish. Only gradually did the two establish a close creative partnership.
"Half of it was just me gaining trust with him because I was in his face with a camera," Chu said. "It was very much like 'Almost Famous,' where I was just on the bus and he didn't really want me there. Once we got past that, we were fine."
Have you noticed a change in Justin Bieber? Tell us below!
Check out everything we've got on "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and Justin Bieber updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
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Dimmu Borgir Release Live DVD; Plus Led Zeppelin, Brujeria, & More News That Rules, In Metal File
'It shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums,' guitarist says.
By Chris Harris
Dimmu Borgir's Silenoz
Photo: Nuclear Blast
On October 14, Dimmu Borgir — who just happen to be Demi Lovato's favorite black-metal band — will release a a three-disc DVD/CD set called "The Invaluable Darkness," the band's first visual offering since 2002's "World Misanthropy." Boasting live footage shot last year, during gigs in Norway, Germany and England, "The Invaluable Darkness" demonstrates the unbridled furor of seeing Dimmu live, guitarist Silenoz said.
"It shows the honest rawness and atmospheric darkness of our concerts," the Norwegian told Metal File last week, after dismissing recent online rumors that his band's next LP would be coming out through Roadrunner Records. "Basically, it shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums. It's just a different side to the band, basically."
Dimmu Borgir began thinking about "The Invaluable Darkness" two years ago, but didn't start capturing footage until last summer, Silenoz explained, adding that the band will use its current stint on the Blackest of the Black Tour — which got underway Thursday night in Miami Beach, Florida, and also features the tour's founder, Danzig, along with Moonspell, Winds of Plague and Skeletonwitch — to promote the DVD. Dimmu Borgir will not, however, use the tour to write material for their next LP.
"It's our first time on Blackest, but Glenn [Danzig] had wanted to bring us out before [on the tour], but we weren't available until now," Silenoz said. "We've done Ozzfest before, but we're looking forward to this tour more. We did the main stage on Ozzfest, playing in f--_ing broad daylight. This tour will let us play in bigger places, but at the same time showcase more of what the band's about, visually. We are going to concentrate on the tour for now. Some years ago, we tried putting [material] together on the road, but once we got home, we listened back to it, and were like, 'What the f--- is this?' So, we just scrapped it all. We find it's so much better to totally focus on one thing at a time, and then, when that's over, you move on to the next [thing]. We don't really feel like we need to rush things, anyway, so we'll just take our time, and it's going to be what it's going to be."
Dimmu Borgir hope to reconvene in late December to begin writing the follow-up to 2007's diabolically titled In Sorte Diaboli. "We have some ideas floating around already, but we haven't arranged any material yet," he said. "We'll start doing that once the touring for this DVD is over." The band's frontman, Shagrath, is also due to marry soon — he's engaged to actor Nicolas Cage's ex-girlfriend, Christina Fulton, so that may have an effect on when Dimmu finish their next album, which Silenoz said could be out this coming spring.
"I'm sure [Shagrath] won't let anything get in the way [of] the band — I think, I hope," the guitarist said. "We don't need a Yoko [Ono] situation."
While Dimmu have been at it going on 15 years now, Silenoz said he doesn't think their forthcoming material will be much of a departure from their previous black-metal offerings.
"And we have always been about more than just that term, 'black metal,' " he said. "Luckily for us, the older you get, the less concerned you get with the categorization and putting labels on your music. Things start getting more and more limitless with us, and we know that we operate within certain frames. But we try not to analyze things too much, because it's just going to be working against you in the end. When we write new stuff, we don't think about what we should write — we just get together, and put material together, and if we like it, we keep it. That's the formula, if we even have a formula."
Dimmu Borgir are definitely getting older — guitarist Galder will be missing Blackest because of a recent addition to his family, and Susperia's Cyrus will be filling in for him; while former Vader drummer Dariusz Brzozowski takes over for Hellhammer, who had to leave the band in 2007 after sustaining a neck injury that's now limited the use of his right arm. As Dimmu has gotten on in years, Silenoz admits they have failed to keep pace with some of the more extreme black-metal acts that have followed in their wake.
"We helped open doors for the more extreme bands out there," Silenoz said. "I'm sure we helped open doors for bands like Watain, [insomuch as] people that had maybe started listening to us first then went on to the more extreme stuff. Let's face it — we're not as extreme as Watain and other bands like that, but we're fine with that."
The Blackest of the Black Tour continues through November 10 in San Francisco.
The rest of the week's metal news:
Dimmu's tourmates on Blackest, Winds of Plague, have announced ex-Azusa drummer Art Cruz has joined their ranks — he replaced Jeff Tenney. According to the band's blog, "Art has already added a new spark to the band and has provided us with a solid backbone that will allow us to continue our rampage stronger than ever." ...
What the world really needs is another Led Zeppelin box set, so, on November 4, Rhino Records will issue the Led Zeppelin Definitive Collection Mini LP Replica CD box set. For just $200, you'll get 1969's Led Zeppelin, 1969's Led Zeppelin II, 1970's Led Zeppelin III, 1971's Led Zeppelin IV, 1973's Houses of the Holy, 1975's Physical Graffiti, 1976's Presence, 1976's The Song Remains the Same, 1979's In Through the Out Door and 1982's Coda, as mini-LP replicas, with artwork from the original U.K. LP sleeves. Now, you know what you can get your dad for Christmas. ...
Former Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach and current Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz have teamed up for a new project they're calling Times of Grace, and they've already started working on material for their debut album. According to Leach, "We have two songs to go and we will be finished with all of the vocals. Adam has taken lead vocals in three songs as of yet and he is doing a great job. We also worked on a track yesterday that is so epic — we trade vocals and do two different melodies at the same time. This album went from a melodic metal album to an epic mix of metal/rock/pop/shoegaze and punk. So all of your metal expectations will be incorrect — we are pushing genre boundaries." To quote "Meet the Parents," we'll look forward to that, Greg. ...
The Funeral Pyre and Early Graves will be hitting the road together next month, starting November 7 in South Lake Tahoe, California. Dates are booked through November 21 in Hollywood. ...
The latest incarnation of Brujeria, which features Carcass frontman Jeff Walker and Napalm Death's Shane Embury, have lined up several U.S. dates for this winter. The band will begin its brief trek November 28 in Denver, and wrap things up in Dallas on December 7. ... Demiricous will be touring with the Gates of Slumber starting November 9 in Denver, for a jaunt that's scheduled to run through December 6 in Indianapolis. ...
Nearly three years after Roadrunner Records' Roadrunner United concert, which took over the Nokia Theater in New York's Times Square, the label is now releasing footage from that special night as "Roadrunner United: The Concert." The DVD, which hits stores December 9, will boast two discs and 24 live tracks, including Life of Agony's "River Runs Red," King Diamond's "Abigail," Killswitch's "My Last Serenade," Type O Negative's "Black No. 1" and Sepultura's "Refuse/Resist." ...
According to Blabbermouth, Verrot, bassist for Swedish black-metal outfit Elimi, committed suicide on October 3. In a statement, the band said, "Verrot was a very good friend, brother, an excellent bass player/musician and an important part of Elimi; we respect his decision and hope he'll find his way with the dark gods of Chaos. Let your black flame be a part of what brings forth the day of wrath."
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Michael Jackson Doctor Conrad Murray's Trial To Be Televised
Judge rules that camera will be allowed in the courtroom for manslaughter case.
By Gil Kaufman
Conrad Murray
Photo: AFP/ Getty Images
For what promises to be one of the most bizarre and riveting legal proceedings in years, a Los Angeles judge ruled on Monday that a television camera will be allowed in the courtroom when Michael Jackson's doctor goes on trial for involuntary manslaughter.
Reuters reported that Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor, approved the presence of a camera in the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray as long as it does not interfere with the proceedings in the closely watched case.
The judge asked for the "absolute least-intrusive placement" of a TV camera in the courtroom, but blocked cameras from documenting jury selection.
Pastor also announced that he would bump up the opening date of the trail by four days to March 24, at which point jury selection will begin. Murray, who faces up to four years in prison if convicted, has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the trial is expected to last around six weeks.
Cardiologist Murray was hired to be Jackson's personal physician in the run-up to the King of Pop's planned 50-date comeback series of shows at London's O2 arena in the summer of 2009. The doctor told police that he provided Jackson, 50, with sedatives and the surgical anesthetic propofol in order to combat the singer's chronic insomnia. He said he did so on the morning of June 25, 2009, when Jackson died of what a coroner deemed acute propofol poisoning.
TMZ reported on Tuesday (February 8) that Murray's lawyers plan to argue that Jackson was already in weak health before he died and that it's unfair to blame propofol for his passing. Unnamed sources close to the case told the gossip site that at the time of his death, Jackson's body was already failing him in part because concert promoter AEG Live had "driven [him] over the edge" with a rigorous rehearsal schedule for the shows.
Murray's lawyers reportedly plan to call witnesses to say that Jackson was not showing up for rehearsals and when he did he showed "clear signs" of frail health. They also reportedly plan to argue that it was Jackson who administered the final, fatal dose of propofol to himself while Murray was out of the room.
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Justin Bieber's Next Album To Capture Justin Timberlake's Magic
Songwriter Sean Garrett says former 'NSYNC star's success inspires Bieber's new project and also dishes on Beyoncé's album.
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Justin Bieber
Photo: Getty Images
Justin Bieber may have declined the chance to join Justin Timberlake's label, but according to a songwriter in the know, the former 'NSYNC crooner is the inspiration for the teen sensation's upcoming album.
Songwriter Sean "The Pen "Garrett, who has been working with Bieber on the follow-up to the chart-ruling My World 2.0., spoke with Billboard about the direction for the teen superstar's forthcoming album, saying the project will feature more grown-up fare.
"What we're trying to do with Justin is to segue him into young adulthood," Garrett said of the project, which is also slated to feature production from hitmaker Christopher "Tricky" Stewart. "The one great thing about Justin Bieber is the fact that his fans are going to grow with him. So we want all the fans that started out with him to still be intrigued and excited about him, but we want to also stretch out a little bit and make the fans that are 22-23 years old love Justin as well. When Justin Timberlake went from the last album of *N Sync to his first solo album -- I want to say [we're aiming for] that level. That's the bar for the type of song, that level of 'Cry Me a River,' big records."
Garrett, who has crafted records for stars like Chris Brown and Bieber's mentor Usher, also said he's hard at work on Beyoncé's next project. However, the songwriter didn't divulge too much information, only revealing that he's "been working with her extremely hard ... she's my favorite."
While Garrett said the plan for his next outing is to angle Bieber toward a swiftly maturing audience, Bieber himself has refused to categorize his music, insisting to MTV News in December that he's just focused on creating quality records.
"Whatever comes out of my mouth is just what you guys are going to hear," Bieber explained of his hits. "I don't know, it's not a specific type of music. Whatever music I write, I wouldn't say I'm pop or R&B or country or anything: I would just say it's just good music,"
What do you think Justin Bieber's new music is going to sound like? Let us know in the comments!
Related ArtistsAnne Hathaway Sings, James Franco Makes Charlie Sheen Joke During Oscars
Hathaway belts out comical tune ribbing Hugh Jackman before Franco takes jab at Sheen.
By Jocelyn Vena
Anne Hathaway performs during the 2011 Oscars
Photo: AMPAS/ ABC
The Oscars broadcast went nearly one hour before anyone cracked a Charlie Sheen joke. It was James Franco who did the honors, but not before his fellow co-host, Anne Hathaway got the chance to poke fun at another well-known actor. Hathaway took to the stage solo clad in a tuxedo and belted out a tune to the melody of "On My Own" from "Les Miserables," a little jab at Hugh Jackman who she apparently wanted to do a duet with during the broadcast.
"There's a tradition of singing at the Oscars," she mused to the crowd. "One that I was lucky enough to take part in two years ago. And this year I wanted to do a duet again with a special guest, but he bailed on me at the last minute and I couldn't do it. But I'm not a quitter, so this is the best I could do under the circumstances."
She then got up and dazzled the crowd with her killer vocal abilities, singing these biting lines to one particular former Oscars host: "On my own/ 'Cause someone's a huge jackass/ I won't say who/ Thought Australians were our allies/ It turns out Down Under's kinda shady/ Not you, Nicole, or not any other Aussie but just one/ Who shall not be named," as the cameras panned to Hugh Jackman, who had performed with Hathaway at the 2009 Academy Awards during a celeb-filled musical number.
"He stuck his fake retractable claws/ Into my heart," she continued. "When he left me on my own."
But the bit didn't end there, as Franco walked onstage dressed in drag as Marilyn Monroe. "You got to wear a tuxedo," he joked to Hathaway. "So I wore this. Weird part is I just got a text message from Charlie Sheen." The two then played the joke off, welcoming to the stage Russell Brand and Helen Mirren, who presented the Best Foreign Language Film prize to "In a Better World" (Denmark).
Stick with MTV News on Oscar night and beyond for red-carpet fashion coverage, analysis of the winners, plus interviews, photos and more from your favorite Hollywood stars!
Related Videos Related PhotosJeremy Renner Talks 'Avengers' At Oscars
'It's tremendous. I can't tell you anything about it,' actor says of the highly secretive script.
By Rick Marshall
Jeremy Renner attends the 2011 Academy Awards
Photo: Getty Images
With "The Avengers" hitting theaters in 2012, all eyes are on Marvel's heroes as we get closer to the day when Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and a host of other comic book characters (and the actors who play them) will appear together on the same screen.
One of the superheroes who won't be debuting in his own solo movie is Clint Barton, the expert archer known as Hawkeye. Played by "Hurt Locker" actor Jeremy Renner, Hawkeye will likely make his official debut in "The Avengers" — though recent rumors have pegged him for a cameo in "Thor."
MTV News caught up with Renner on the red carpet at this year's Academy Awards and pressed him for details about his debut as the bow-wielding marksman.
"Yes, I have [read the 'Avengers' script]," Renner said. "It's tremendous. I can't tell you anything about it."
Calling the film a "massive undertaking," Renner praised the ambition of "Avengers" director Joss Whedon, who's tasked with putting all of Marvel's biggest stars in the same film and making sure there's enough spotlight to go around.
"He [will need to] pull all of those characters off and have it make sense," the actor said.
Little is known about the plot of "Avengers" at this point, other than that it will bring together a long list of high-profile actors and the larger-than-life characters they play in Marvel's movie universe. During last year's Comic-Con in San Diego, Marvel unveiled the core "Avengers" cast of Renner, Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Evans (Captain America), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow), Mark Ruffalo (Hulk) and Clark Gregg (S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Coulson).
In order to prepare for the role, Renner said archery lessons are indeed on his to-do list — though he has yet to see the costume he'll don as Hawkeye.
As for that rumor about Hawkeye making a cameo in "Thor," Renner would neither confirm nor deny the possibility of fans getting an early peek at his take on the Avenger's marksman.
"I might [have a cameo in 'Thor']," he teased. "Go see it. Check it out."
For breaking news and previews of the latest comic book movies — updated around the clock — visit SplashPage.MTV.com.
Stick with MTV News on Oscar night and beyond for red-carpet fashion coverage, analysis of the winners, plus interviews, photos and more from your favorite Hollywood stars!
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Sunday, February 27, 2011
Mary J. Blige Dishes On Her 'Crazy' Led Zeppelin Covers
'I've listened to their music since I was a child,' says the R&B diva, who recorded 'Stairway to Heaven' and 'Whole Lotta Love.'
By James Montgomery, with reporting by Larry Carroll
Mary J. Blige
Photo: MTV News
You wouldn't peg Mary J Blige as the black-light-and-tapestry sort, but, as has become readily apparent in recent weeks, she absolutely loves Led Zeppelin.
In early February, reports began circulating that Blige had re-recorded Zeppelin's classic "Stairway to Heaven," working with Travis Barker, "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson and guitarist Steve Vai on the track, which is slated to appear on the international reissue of her Stronger With Each Tear album, due Monday.
But after she had recorded "Stairway," Blige continued to get the Led out, covering another Zeppelin classic — the thunderous "Whole Lotta Love" — for the album too. And when MTV News caught up with her on the Essence Black Women in Hollywood red carpet, she told us all about channeling her inner Robert Plant for the tracks, a process that came much easier than you'd probably imagine.
"I did Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven' and 'Whole Lotta Love' — it's crazy," she said. "I am a Led Zeppelin fan. I'm not going to say I've been to their concerts, but I've listened to their music since I was a child, and it's always moved me, especially 'Stairway to Heaven,' and 'Whole Lotta Love' is just fun."
Blige also said she recorded another new song — a "club record" called "I Can't Wait" — for the re-release. And while it's only slated to hit shelves outside the U.S., she hopes her fans will get a chance to hear all the new songs pretty soon.
"I want y'all to hear it," she laughed.
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Justin Timberlake Takes Mom to the 2011 Oscars
He?s always up for a swanky affair, and earlier tonight (February 27) Justin Timberlake was in the house at the 83rd Annual Academy Awards.
Bringing his mother Lynn Harless as his date, the ?Social Network? stud looked handsome in a classic black tuxedo by Tom Ford as he chatted with the press outside the Kodak Theatre.
When asked if Ford had any red carpet tips for him, Justin shared, "He told me not to breathe air if I want to fit into this suit."
And Timberlake also noted that he?d rather golf or snowboard than tool around on Facebook during his downtime. "I don't get a lot of free time."
Britney Spears - Womanizer
- Artist: Britney Spears
- Label: Zomba Label Group/Jive
- Director: Joseph Kahn
- Album: Circus
Lady Gaga Confirms There Are Two 'Born This Way' Videos
Proceeds from 'stripped-down' clip and song will go to 'anti-bully charity,' she tells Gayle King.
By Jocelyn Vena
Lady Gaga
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
Lady Gaga sat down with Oprah Winfrey's bestie, Gayle King, to discuss her forthcoming Nick Knight-directed videos for her chart-topping single "Born This Way," from her May album of the same name.
"I do have some exciting news about the new single. I've been so excited about [the fans'] reaction and seeing the fans be so excited during the show every time we play 'Born This Way,' it's been really amazing," she told King. "I've made two music videos for the song."
Gaga then went on to confirm that portions of the proceeds from the sale of the "stripped-down" version of the song, which will get its own video (further details about that clip were not known at press time), will go to charity. "So there's one that's coming out on Monday," she explained. "But then I'm actually putting together another video, which is a more stripped-down version of the song that will be released on iTunes and also released as an audio file. A portion of the money raised selling the song is actually going to go towards an anti-bully charity."
Mum has been the word on what the videos will actually be like. Though Gaga, in a recent radio interview, noted that the visual is about "the birth of a new race within the race of humanity. The birth of a new race that doesn't bear any prejudices. I think the most important thing is that I continue to grow, and I knew when I put [out] 'BTW' it would be a transitional moment, because it doesn't sound like [my previous singles]."
What are you expecting from the "Born This Way" videos? Let us know in the comments!
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- Artist: Michael Jackson
- Label: Epic Records
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Lady Gaga's Fans Call Her A 'Source Of Inspiration'
Little monsters gush about pop star outside Madison Square Garden.
By MTV News Staff
Lady Gaga performs at Madison Square Garden on Monday
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
On Tuesday night, Lady Gaga's little monsters filed into Madison Square Garden for her second of two nights at the storied New York venue. Her fans talked to MTV News about the impact Mother Monster has had on their lives, and many said she gives them the courage to be who they truly are.
"I think that Lady Gaga, for me, has given me a new source of inspiration. And she's so creative ... you have to have some sort of reaction to that," Frank said outside MSG. "And, for me, it's a positive one."
Donning an outrageous outfit, little monster Ricky joked that Gaga has recently done two things for him: "She made us broke, and she reminds us to be ourselves."
Kevin explained that in a world as vapid as pop can be, Gaga serves as a reminder that true art can be created. "As a music fan, I think it's fantastic that we finally have someone else now to be, like, all about a great message and great music," he said. "She writes her own music, which you don't get anymore."
"Lady Gaga's fantastic," Michael chimed in. "Again, as an artist, she's really proven that you can be who you want to be and do what you wanna do and really succeed with it."
Gaga's connection to her art is what seems to really stick with some fans. "I think Lady Gaga has affected everyone personally," Garrett explained, "because I think she's shown the whole artistry of it and making pop culture and art one and one again."
In between all the chatter about her devotion to her music and her craft, one fan noted that Lady Gaga just makes it fine to wear wacky wigs. "She totally made me buy this yellow wig," Gabriella said. "Without her, I never would have bought it. I'm not even lying."
Has Lady Gaga affected your life? Tell us how in the comments section below!
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSaturday, February 26, 2011
DAILIES: James Franco Is 'Oz The Great And Powerful,' 'The King's Speech' Receives PG-13 Recut
The never-ending quest of James Franco doing awesome things continues, as this year's Oscar host has officially landed his next big assignment as the Wizard of Oz.
Franco has closed his deal to take on the starring role in "Oz the Great and Powerful," a move that reunites him with "Spider-Man" director Sam Raimi. Deadline reports [...]
Franco has closed his deal to take on the starring role in "Oz the Great and Powerful," a move that reunites him with "Spider-Man" director Sam Raimi. Deadline reports [...]
Michelle Behennah Michelle Branch Michelle Malkin Michelle Obama
Lady Gaga Confirms There Are Two 'Born This Way' Videos
Proceeds from 'stripped-down' clip and song will go to 'anti-bully charity,' she tells Gayle King.
By Jocelyn Vena
Lady Gaga
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
Lady Gaga sat down with Oprah Winfrey's bestie, Gayle King, to discuss her forthcoming Nick Knight-directed videos for her chart-topping single "Born This Way," from her May album of the same name.
"I do have some exciting news about the new single. I've been so excited about [the fans'] reaction and seeing the fans be so excited during the show every time we play 'Born This Way,' it's been really amazing," she told King. "I've made two music videos for the song."
Gaga then went on to confirm that portions of the proceeds from the sale of the "stripped-down" version of the song, which will get its own video (further details about that clip were not known at press time), will go to charity. "So there's one that's coming out on Monday," she explained. "But then I'm actually putting together another video, which is a more stripped-down version of the song that will be released on iTunes and also released as an audio file. A portion of the money raised selling the song is actually going to go towards an anti-bully charity."
Mum has been the word on what the videos will actually be like. Though Gaga, in a recent radio interview, noted that the visual is about "the birth of a new race within the race of humanity. The birth of a new race that doesn't bear any prejudices. I think the most important thing is that I continue to grow, and I knew when I put [out] 'BTW' it would be a transitional moment, because it doesn't sound like [my previous singles]."
What are you expecting from the "Born This Way" videos? Let us know in the comments!
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Film Independent Spirit Awards 2011: Red Carpet Live Feed
With another tribute to the best in cinema set to get underway, the stars will be gathering together for the 2011 Film Independent Spirit Awards in Santa MOnica, California on Saturday afternoon (February 26).
The annual showcase is taking place beginning at 2:30PM ET, with big names including Nicole Kidman, Jesse Eisenberg, Zoe Saldana and Jennifer Lawrence among the slated presenters.
With "The King's Speech," "Black Swan," "Winter's Bone" and "The Kids Are Alright" among the top nominees, the event will be hosted by Joel McHale.
Meanwhile, the ceremony will be airing later tonight at 10PM ET on IFC - with the red carpet live stream available for viewers' pleasure below.
LeAnn Rimes & Eddie Cibrian To Wed On Montana Ranch
LeAnn Rimes and Eddie Cibrian are planning to marry on a private ranch in Montana. Country singer LeAnn Rimes will be marrying Eddie Cibrian later [...]
Pregnant Jessica Alba's Week-Ending Workout
Looking to stay in shape during her second pregnancy, Jessica Alba was spotted heading to the gym in Los Angeles, CA earlier today (February 25).
The ?Good Luck Chuck? babe looked cute in white pants and a light green top as she carried an oversized bag, which happened to cover up her baby bump.
Just yesterday, it was announced that Ms Alba will be making an appearance on the annual post-Oscars broadcast, ?Jimmy Kimmel Live: After The Academy Awards.?
Other celebs rumored to be joining Jessica are Tom Hanks, Cee Lo Green, Eva Longoria, Kelly Ripa, Minka Kelly and Sofia Vergara.
Catherine Bell Chandra West Charisma Carpenter Charli Baltimore
Adele's 21 Set To Debut At #1
Projected big sales come after a slew of the singer's tour dates had to be moved to larger venues.
By Alex Chapman
Adele
Photo: Jon Furniss/ WireImage
Fame has never been Adele's top priority, but these days, there's no stopping the singer's rapid rise in popularity.
Adele's star is only growing brighter on both sides of the pond. According to the singer's website, a slew of her U.S. tour dates had to be moved to bigger venues to meet popular demand (she even added extra gigs in New York). In addition, according to Reuters, her latest album, 21, is projected to move as many as 300,000 copies by Sunday, guaranteeing a #1 debut in America.
The 22-year-old has mentioned in the past that she has no desire to share the celebrity of her contemporaries. "I was just thinking, imagine being someone like Cheryl Cole or Katy Perry or Gaga, where you've got to be conniving to have a normal day," Adele told Britain's The Sun earlier this month. "That scares the life out of me. I don't think I'd be able to carry on doing music if it got to that point. I don't think it ever will -- I don't think I'm the kind of artist where that will happen."
The singer/songwriter has also mentioned that she prefers a smaller scene to an outsize stadium. "I can't do arenas because I'm not [Lady Gaga]," Adele was recently quoted as saying.
But don't let the singer's seemingly reserved mentality fool you: Adele wants her music to cross over to the States, even if she doesn't desire the forceful spotlight that follows. "It's a big deal in England," Adele told MTV News of success in America. "I didn't think I'd ever release a record here."
Have you checked out Adele's latest album? Share your reviews in the comments!
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Friday, February 25, 2011
Cameron Diaz Talks "Bad Teacher"
Stopping by ?Jimmy Kimmel Live,? for a quick chat last night (February 24), Cameron Diaz opened up about her upcoming role in ?Bad Teacher.?
The blonde bombshell plays a foul-mouthed, pot smoking teacher in the film and admits that in real life she enjoys indulging in a bit of adult behavior.
When Kimmel asked Diaz if she likes watching dirty movies, the actress replied, ?I Love Porn!?
Dishing a few intimate details, Cameron continued, "I'm primal on an animalistic level, kind of like, 'Bonk me over the head, throw me over your shoulder," she told the mag. "You man, me woman.' Not everybody has the right kind of primal thing for me...I love physical contact. I have to be touching my lover, like, always. It's not optional."
Beyoncé - Ego
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia, Music World Music
- Director: Beyonce, Frank Gatson, Sheryl Murakami
- Album: I Am...Sasha Fierce [Deluxe Edition]
Beyoncé - Video Phone (Extended Remix)
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia, Music World Music
- Director: Hype Williams
- Album: I Am...Sasha Fierce
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Lady Gaga's Fans Call Her A 'Source Of Inspiration'
Little monsters gush about pop star outside Madison Square Garden.
By MTV News Staff
Lady Gaga performs at Madison Square Garden on Monday
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
On Tuesday night, Lady Gaga's little monsters filed into Madison Square Garden for her second of two nights at the storied New York venue. Her fans talked to MTV News about the impact Mother Monster has had on their lives, and many said she gives them the courage to be who they truly are.
"I think that Lady Gaga, for me, has given me a new source of inspiration. And she's so creative ... you have to have some sort of reaction to that," Frank said outside MSG. "And, for me, it's a positive one."
Donning an outrageous outfit, little monster Ricky joked that Gaga has recently done two things for him: "She made us broke, and she reminds us to be ourselves."
Kevin explained that in a world as vapid as pop can be, Gaga serves as a reminder that true art can be created. "As a music fan, I think it's fantastic that we finally have someone else now to be, like, all about a great message and great music," he said. "She writes her own music, which you don't get anymore."
"Lady Gaga's fantastic," Michael chimed in. "Again, as an artist, she's really proven that you can be who you want to be and do what you wanna do and really succeed with it."
Gaga's connection to her art is what seems to really stick with some fans. "I think Lady Gaga has affected everyone personally," Garrett explained, "because I think she's shown the whole artistry of it and making pop culture and art one and one again."
In between all the chatter about her devotion to her music and her craft, one fan noted that Lady Gaga just makes it fine to wear wacky wigs. "She totally made me buy this yellow wig," Gabriella said. "Without her, I never would have bought it. I'm not even lying."
Has Lady Gaga affected your life? Tell us how in the comments section below!
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Oscars 2011: James Franco And Anne Hathaway Get Their 'Grease' On
by Sterling Wong
Ever since modern day Renaissance man James Franco registered his own Twitter account last week, he?s been keeping us entertained with his frequently random and sometimes bizarre postings.
Franco's Twitter feed got all of us buzzing with extra excitement yesterday for a very Oscar-related reason: the actor, student and whole-bunch-of-other-things posted a short [...]
Ever since modern day Renaissance man James Franco registered his own Twitter account last week, he?s been keeping us entertained with his frequently random and sometimes bizarre postings.
Franco's Twitter feed got all of us buzzing with extra excitement yesterday for a very Oscar-related reason: the actor, student and whole-bunch-of-other-things posted a short [...]
Ke$ha Sued By Former Managers
DAS Communications' lawyer claims producer Dr. Luke convinced her to breach contract.
By Jocelyn Vena
Ke$ha
Photo: Fotonoticias/ Getty Images
Ke$ha is being sued by her former managers at DAS Communications for upwards of $14 million, Ken Freundlich, who is representing DAS in the case, confirmed to MTV News.
"DAS was Ke$ha's manager since the beginning of 2006, and there was a written agreement, and they worked closely, and sometime in September 2008 [producer] Dr. Luke, for his own personal gain, somehow induced her to breach that contract," Freundlich said. "And she unceremoniously terminated DAS without justification and then ended up with Luke, basically. So we sued Ke$ha for breach of contract and Luke for interference, and that was last year, and the defense's reaction was to try and delay us. They made motions.
"The judge denied all their motions, and now we're going forward. We're going to have our day in court," he continued. "And we're going to prove that Dr. Luke induced her to breach the contract. She had no right to do so, and we're gonna get damages from her."
Freundlich explained how he and his team came to the $14 million sum, explaining, "We don't know exactly how much, but we assume it's in that range. She's been quite successful. The case is set. It's gonna go on the rest of this year. We're gonna go straight to the trial if we have to."
Ke$ha has filed a suit in California against the management team, but Freundlich is confident nothing will come of her claim that they acted as an "illegal talent agent." "That's pending out in California. Even though that case is still pending, I don't think it has any merit," he said.
Calls to Ke$ha's legal team and rep were not returned to MTV News by press time.
Related ArtistsUsher - OMG
- Artist: Usher
- Label: LaFace Records, JLG
- Director: Anthony Mandler
- Album: Raymond V. Raymond
Download the iVillage Red Carpet Fever Mobile App!
Awards show season is at full peak -- and with all the red-carpet goings-on, you'll want to stay connected on the go!
With the new iVillage Red Carpet Fever mobile app, you can be prepared as we gear up for the Academy Awards on Feb. 27. Vote for your favorite Oscar contenders, read up on all the nominees and check out photos and fashions from last year's ceremony.
Plus, use the mobile app to chat live about the fierce fashions, gracious winners and crazy acceptance speeches during the Oscar broadcast on Sunday night!
You can also check out the recently revealed results of the 2nd Annual iVillage Entertainment Awards, as well as the hottest moments and photos from the 2011 Grammy Awards.
Everything you need to be a red-carpet expert is at your fingertips!
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE iVILLAGE RED-CARPET FEVER MOBILE APP!
Charli Baltimore Charlies Angels Charlize Theron Chelsea Handler
George Clooney: I Did Too Many Drugs to Go Into Politics
With his passion for political activism and his presidential charisma, George Clooney seems like a natural to run for office. Now that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jesse Ventura have paved the way, will we soon be able to cast our vote for Governor (or perhaps POTUS) Clooney?
Not a chance.
"I didn't live my life in the right way for politics, you know," says Clooney, 49, in the new issue of Newsweek. "I f***ed too many chicks and did too many drugs, and that's the truth."
Clearly, he's too honest for politics! But Clooney has turned himself into a major force for change by advocating for peace in Sudan. He's now what Newsweek calls a "freelance diplomat," serving as a liason between the war-torn region, the White House and the United Nations. Ironically, it's because he was sick of campaigning that George got involved with Sudan in the first place.
"I had just come out of Oscar season (in 2005)," recalls Clooney. "I had two movies up -- and you really do campaign, like kissing babies. So by the time it's over, you sort of feel unclean. You want to do something that makes you feel better."
After traveling to Sudan, Clooney realized that its people needed more than money; they needed an influential voice to speak for them.
"My job is to amplify the voice of the guy who lives here and is worried about his wife and children being slaughtered," Clooney says bluntly. "He wants to shout it from the mountaintops, but he doesn't have a very big megaphone or a very big mountain. So he's asking anyone who has a mountain and megaphone to protect his family, his village. And if he finds me and asks, 'You got a big megaphone?' and I say, 'Yes.' 'You got a decent-size mountain to yell it from?'' 'Yeah, I got a pretty good-sized mountain.' 'Will you do me a favor and yell it?' And I go, 'Absolutely.'"
Okay, now we're tempted to put Clooney on the ballot ourselves! But it looks like we'll have to settle for seeing it in the movies: Clooney plays a flawed presidential candidate in his next film, The Ides of March.
Would you vote for George Clooney if he ran for political office? Chime in below!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Usher Says New 'Rev Pop' Project Is A 'Movement'
Singer teases his new project by pointing to past hits like 'Yeah!' and 'OMG.'
By James Montgomery
Usher
Photo: MTV News
With the success of songs like "DJ Got Us Fallin' in Love," "Hot Tottie" and "OMG," Usher had himself a fairly massive 2010. But rather than rest on his laurels, he's looking to build on his big year, not with an album, but with a "movement."
It's something he's calling "Rev Pop" — or, simply, "Rev" — and though he's already teased his idea in a video with David Guetta (Akon is also involved), he has yet to speak in full about it. So when MTV News caught up with Ush before the 53rd annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles at the (Belvedere) RED launch party, we asked him about his next musical endeavor. And though he didn't reveal much, he did let it be known that "Rev" isn't exactly something new. In fact, he's been doing it for a while now.
"I'll give it to you this way: At a later date, I'll tell you more about Rev Pop, but if I were to give you a flash: I've done it before, I did it with 'Yeah!' " he said, "taking a cultural experience, and also worldwide recognition of a feeling, and putting the soul in the middle of it. Not allowing it to shift heavily to R&B genre, or pop. I did it again with 'OMG,' once again putting the soul in the middle of it, which was an electric-pop experience, with the soul.
"It's bringing those elements together to tell a story, that was born here," he said, gesturing toward his heart, "And that's what Rev Pop is. There's more, I mean, I could really elaborate, but that's just what I'm going to tell you right now. 'Rev' is what it's called ... the movement is called Rev."
Usher wouldn't say just when his fans would be getting their first taste of Rev, but whenever they do, it sounds like they're going to be impressed ... if not a little shocked.
"Stay alive," he smiled, "Because you're definitely going to be in for a surprise."
Related ArtistsWatch: Taylor Swift Releases An Asian Tour Video
Yesterday we saw photos of Taylor Swift ending her Asian Tour with a live performance in Hong Kong and today we get to check out a fun 10-minute video that Taylor put together of her entire Asian Tour. Staring off at home in Nashville, TN, Taylor filmed her journey along the way as she visited [...]
Justin Bieber Vintage Video: His First Meeting With Usher
Justin Timberlake also wanted to sign Bieber, 'Never Say Never' star said in 2009.
By Jocelyn Vena
Justin Bieber
Photo: Brian Phares/MTV News
Just as the world was learning who Justin Bieber was, MTV News caught up with the shaggy-haired singer in September 2009. He was gearing up to release his debut album, My World, and plotting his pop-world domination. In the year and a half since that interview, Bieber has done the nearly impossible, launching himself into the pop mega-sphere.
In the chat, Bieber recalled how he and his manager, Scooter Braun, met and eventually got big names interested in signing the teen.
"My manager found me on YouTube. He flew me out to Atlanta for the first time — I'd never actually been on a plane before. He flew me to Atlanta where i was going to the studio to meet some people," he recalled.
"And Usher happened to roll up in his Range Rover. I ran up to him, and I was like, 'Usher, I love your songs. Want me to sing you one?' The politest possible way he could say no, he did. ... I took the hint. I didn't get to sing for him: He had to run into a studio session."
But later, Usher was beckoning the teen back to the ATL. "He actually watched my videos — after my manager got to talking to him — and was like, 'I should have let this kid sing,' and flew me back to Atlanta where I got to sing for him in a proper setting. A week later, I had a meeting with Justin Timberlake, who also wanted to sign me, so they both kind of wanted me."
As the story goes, Bieber went with Usher, and the two never looked back.
"As far as Usher being my mentor, he's definitely given me words of wisdom. I hear it from everybody, but definitely to hear it from Usher is great, just to stay humble and grounded is very important," he explained.
"There's a lot of people, especially young stars, that have gone down the wrong path, and I definitely plan to stay humble and stay grounded and keep my family first, because that stuff really is important in life."
On Friday, Justin Bieber's 3-D documentary, "Never Say Never," opens. The film takes a look at how the teen star worked to hit it big. MTV News has been chatting with him along the way, from the time he first burst on the scene in 2009 until now, as he embarks on a huge 2011 that will include a tour and more new music.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsAdam Lambert's 'Whole Lotta Love': The Story Behind The Cover
Glam rocker tackled the legendary 1970 Led Zeppelin song for 'American Idol' rock night.
By Gil Kaufman
Adam Lambert performs "Whole Lotta Love" on "American Idol" on Tuesday
Photo: R. Mickshaw/Getty Images/ Fox
Imagine a freight train speeding toward you at midnight. Or a rockslide barreling down a hill as you try to outrace it. That's the feeling of the ominous, chugging Jimmy Page riff that kicks off Led Zeppelin's 1970 Stonehenge of rock, "Whole Lotta Love." And that's before singer Robert Plant leans into one of the nastiest, ecstatic rock screams this side of the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again."
That's the song Adam Lambert chose to sing on "American Idol" rock night Tuesday (May 5), and, needless to say, it was a challenge that the eyeliner-loving Los Angeles stage veteran was more than up for, hitting a series of high notes and rock screams that would have made Plant proud. It was a risky maneuver that paid off for Lambert, who chose a tune that came in at #75 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2004.
The legendary British rock act recorded the tribute to Chicago blues icon Willie Dixon during their second U.S. tour after working it out in their live show, including it on their 1969 classic album Led Zeppelin II. Like many of the songs Zeppelin performed early in their career, "Love" was a blues standard turned on its head with a heavy dose of crunching psychedelic guitar and thundering drums, courtesy of late drummer John Bonham. The song was based on a 1962 tune by another blues forefather, Muddy Waters, called "You Need Love," which was penned by Dixon.
For Zeppelin's version, Plant customized the lyrics by adding some lyrical quotes from a few other songs Dixon wrote for Howlin' Wolf, "Back Door Man" and "Shake For Me," nailing the tricky vocal in a single take. It was also inspired by 1966's "You Need Loving" from the British rock group the Small Faces, for whom Zeppelin had great affection, but they also did not credit Dixon for his part in writing the original lyrics. The song became Zeppelin's first U.S. single and their only U.S. top 10 hit. Though their manager would not let them release singles in the U.K. because he thought it cannibalized album sales, the song was finally released as the band's only British single in 1997.
Dixon sued Zeppelin over the song in 1985, claiming it borrowed too heavily from his "You Need Love," and Zeppelin reached an agreement with him, with Dixon using the money he received to set up a program that provided musical instruments for schools. A cornerstone of heavy rock, the tune -- which was the theme song for the long-running British countdown show "Top of the Pops" in the 1970s and '80s -- has been covered by dozens of artists over the years, from Tina Turner and Ben Harper to Prince, Slash, Leona Lewis, Train's Pat Monahan, the London Symphony Orchestra and Jane's Addiction.
Get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsLes News, 022211
THIS is why you should do well in school, kids. Adele does The Late Show with David Letterman, do yourself a favor and buy her new album 21 — out today! Maryland may be the next State in the US to enjoy marriage equality. Disneyland does make dreams come true :D Click HERE to watch [...]
Mariah OBrien Marika Dominczyk Marisa Coughlan Marisa Miller
Celebrate Wendy O. Williams' Birthday With Bobblehead Doll
What better way to celebrate Wendy O. Williams' 61st birthday on May 28 (if she hadn't blown her head off at age 48) than with a cute, scantily clad bobblehead doll.
Yes, Aggronautix, the company that, in 2009, presented a bobblehead of GG Allin -- the lovable now-deceased counter culture character who beat up audience members, [...]
Yes, Aggronautix, the company that, in 2009, presented a bobblehead of GG Allin -- the lovable now-deceased counter culture character who beat up audience members, [...]
Olivia Palermo: London Fashion Week Lover
Partaking in yet another day of fashionable fun, Olivia Palermo was front row for the Emilio De La Morena show during London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2011 on Tuesday (February 22).
After checking out the Somerset House catwalk display, the former "City" star headed off to attend the ?To Die For? launch for Charlotte Olympia?s new collection.
The former ?City? chick joined up with Andrea Dellal at the stylish affair, which was held at Mark's Club.
Seeming to be in all her glory, Olivia recently admitted that Fashion Week in London is her fortay.
She told the Catwalk Queen, "I think Europe is very important for fashion week, especially London, it?s my favorite.?
Piper Perabo Poppy Montgomery Portia de Rossi Rachael Leigh Cook
Justin Bieber - Eenie Meenie
- Artist: Justin Bieber
- Label: Epic, Beluga Heights
- Director: Ray Kay
- Album: My World 2.0
Kristanna Loken Kristen Bell Kristin Cavallari Kristin Kreuk
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