Shakira is looking forward to starting a family with her long-term fiance Antonio De La Rua. The singer is hoping to settle down but needs to fulfill her commitments first.
"Do I have any plans for children? Little wolves? Yeah, of course. I'd really like to have kids, but first I need to go on tour and release this new album - and then we can sit down and talk about it," Contactmusic quoted her as saying.
The 33-year-old star told the Big Issue magazine that even though she and Antonio got engaged over four years ago, marriage is no longer high on her list of priorities.
"Maybe 15 years ago, I'd dream about wearing a white gown, a wedding cake and a room full of guests and me feeding them canapés," she said.
Showing posts with label Music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Music. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Title singer changes for Rajini
Superstar Rajinikanth has one of most enviable fan following in the industry. His punch dialogues and style of acting has wooed many people across the globe.
One of the highlights of his movies are the title songs which have been targeted at the masses. These songs have usually been sung by popular playback singer SP Balasubramanyam.
However there seems to be a change in the latest Rajni flick 'Yanthram'. Sources indicate that it will be the talented and fusion based singer Hariharan who will render his voice to the title song composed by A R Rahman.
Well let us see the impact of Hariharan’s voice for Rajini this time.
One of the highlights of his movies are the title songs which have been targeted at the masses. These songs have usually been sung by popular playback singer SP Balasubramanyam.
However there seems to be a change in the latest Rajni flick 'Yanthram'. Sources indicate that it will be the talented and fusion based singer Hariharan who will render his voice to the title song composed by A R Rahman.
Well let us see the impact of Hariharan’s voice for Rajini this time.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Bhoomika to be Prabhu Deva’s heroine
Prabhu Deva has made a long but successful journey in the cinema industry. He has been a successful choreographer and then went on to be an actor. Later he started directing and has already delivered few hits in Telugu and Tamil.
However, ever since he started directing, he has been staying away from acting. Now according to reports, he is making a comeback of sorts. He will be seen in an important role in a flick to be made by Thangar Bachchan.
Interestingly, the glowing beauty Bhoomika will playing the role of heroine while the highly talented and versatile Prakashraj is also playing an important role.
However, ever since he started directing, he has been staying away from acting. Now according to reports, he is making a comeback of sorts. He will be seen in an important role in a flick to be made by Thangar Bachchan.
Interestingly, the glowing beauty Bhoomika will playing the role of heroine while the highly talented and versatile Prakashraj is also playing an important role.
Janet Jackson eyes personal tell-all book
Janet Jackson is reportedly planning to write a personal tell-all book, in order to help herself cope with the grief of her brother Michael's death.
The songbird will purportedly also detail her own battle with issues like self-esteem and weight, along with the family's struggle to come to terms with the loss of the King of Pop.
"She is going to talk about Michael's death and how it's affected her and his children and the rest of the family... A lot of it will focus on her battle with self-esteem and weight," Contactmusic quoted a source as having told In Touch Weekly.
"She's a huge success. But that's not always what she has seen when she looks in the mirror, so the book will talk about how she has coped, and about her family relationships. She wants to help other young women out there," the source added.
The songbird will purportedly also detail her own battle with issues like self-esteem and weight, along with the family's struggle to come to terms with the loss of the King of Pop.
"She is going to talk about Michael's death and how it's affected her and his children and the rest of the family... A lot of it will focus on her battle with self-esteem and weight," Contactmusic quoted a source as having told In Touch Weekly.
"She's a huge success. But that's not always what she has seen when she looks in the mirror, so the book will talk about how she has coped, and about her family relationships. She wants to help other young women out there," the source added.
Catherine Zeta-Jones to star alongside Angela Lansbury in Broadway musical
Hollywood actress Catherine Zeta-Jones is all set to star in Broadway musical A Little Night Music, directed by Stephen Sondheim.
The romantic musical is about the love lives of several couples, alongside British-born actress Angela Lansbury, reports Contactmusic.
The 83-year-old TV, film and theatre star Lansbury only accepted the role on the premise that she would be working with a highly-rated co-star in New York's celebrated theatre district.
According to the New York Post: "The great Angela Lansbury agreed to play Madame Armfeldt, provided the producers lined up another star to play her daughter, Desiree. Lansbury didn't want to shoulder a multi-million dollar Broadway revival by herself."
The paper further reported that Catherine accepted the role after receiving a personal call from Sondheim.
The romantic musical is about the love lives of several couples, alongside British-born actress Angela Lansbury, reports Contactmusic.
The 83-year-old TV, film and theatre star Lansbury only accepted the role on the premise that she would be working with a highly-rated co-star in New York's celebrated theatre district.
According to the New York Post: "The great Angela Lansbury agreed to play Madame Armfeldt, provided the producers lined up another star to play her daughter, Desiree. Lansbury didn't want to shoulder a multi-million dollar Broadway revival by herself."
The paper further reported that Catherine accepted the role after receiving a personal call from Sondheim.
Monday, May 4, 2009
'Universal Hero' and Padma Shri Kamal Haasan praises Isaignani
'Universal Hero' and Padma Shri Kamal Haasan was present at the audio release of Azhagar Malai at his Alwarpet office. Azhagar Malai has music by 'Isaignani' Ilayaraja and is produced by Karumari Kandasami and Sangili Murugan.
Speaking at the function, Kamal said a maestro like Ilayaraja is born only once in several hundred years! He also went on to praise the legend for his contribution to Indian music and especially Tamil cinema. Kamal Haasan has always remained a staunch Ilayaraja loyalist even in this age of electronic synthesizers and techno music.
He went on to add that Ilayaraja adheres to music in its purest form that can never fade out!
The much-awaited audio CD release happened towards the end the function. The film is shot in Madurai and interestingly, Ilayaraja also appears in a few scenes for a song which has been pictured around the place where he grew up. Also, several locations like Ramana Ashram at Thiruvannamalai and his mother's memorial at Pannaipuram are shown.
Ilayaraja and producer Sangili Murugan are coming together after a very long time. Azhagar Malai stars R.K., Banu, Napoleon, Lal, Manivannan, Suganya, Saravanan and Sona.
Director S.P. Rajkumar and producer Lakshmana Moorthy were also present at the event.
Speaking at the function, Kamal said a maestro like Ilayaraja is born only once in several hundred years! He also went on to praise the legend for his contribution to Indian music and especially Tamil cinema. Kamal Haasan has always remained a staunch Ilayaraja loyalist even in this age of electronic synthesizers and techno music.
He went on to add that Ilayaraja adheres to music in its purest form that can never fade out!
The much-awaited audio CD release happened towards the end the function. The film is shot in Madurai and interestingly, Ilayaraja also appears in a few scenes for a song which has been pictured around the place where he grew up. Also, several locations like Ramana Ashram at Thiruvannamalai and his mother's memorial at Pannaipuram are shown.
Ilayaraja and producer Sangili Murugan are coming together after a very long time. Azhagar Malai stars R.K., Banu, Napoleon, Lal, Manivannan, Suganya, Saravanan and Sona.
Director S.P. Rajkumar and producer Lakshmana Moorthy were also present at the event.
Govt reception for Rahman
Oscar award winner musical maestro A.R. Rahman was honored, with a reception by the State government here on Sunday. The function at Kadavu Resorts, which was conducted a few hours before his Jai Ho concert, was well attended with ministers like Elamarom Kareem, Benoy Viswam and MN K Premachandran waiting for hours for the Madras Mozart to complete his rehearsals before the concert.
Rahman who appeared in a blue jeans and white Kurta was presented with a memento, jointly by the three ministers, on behalf of the State Government. Rahman, in hi short speech expressed his happiness to be in Kerala, where he was longing to perform for the last 15 years.
Kozhikode Mayor M. Bhaskaran, District Collector P.B. Salim, P. Sathi Devi, MP P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP and chairman of Global Kerala Initiative – Keraleeyam (the organiser of the ‘Jai Ho’ show); Deputy Speaker Jose Baby; MLAs A. Pradeep Kumar and P.M.A. Salam and the former Minister M.K. Muneer were also among the celebrities who attended the function.
Rahman who appeared in a blue jeans and white Kurta was presented with a memento, jointly by the three ministers, on behalf of the State Government. Rahman, in hi short speech expressed his happiness to be in Kerala, where he was longing to perform for the last 15 years.
Kozhikode Mayor M. Bhaskaran, District Collector P.B. Salim, P. Sathi Devi, MP P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP and chairman of Global Kerala Initiative – Keraleeyam (the organiser of the ‘Jai Ho’ show); Deputy Speaker Jose Baby; MLAs A. Pradeep Kumar and P.M.A. Salam and the former Minister M.K. Muneer were also among the celebrities who attended the function.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Rahman's musical journey from Chennai to Hollywood
It was a remarkable journey from Chennai to Hollywood for music maestro Allah Rakha Rahman who on Monday made a billion Indians proud, adding another feather
in his cap by bagging two Oscars for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
It was a Jai ho for the soft-spoken Rahman, hailed by Time Magazine as the 'Mozart of Madras', when he walked to receive the award for Best Original Score and Best Song Jai Ho.
The 'Mozart of Madras', who redefined contemporary Indian music and has been a role model for millions of Indians, has already won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for his
music in Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire.
The 43-year-old music wizard, who has enthralled audience in the country and abroad with his heartwarming symphonies, is creating waves on the international stage with
his composition in Slumdog Millionaire.
Born as AS Dileep Kumar in a musically affluent family in Chennai on January 6, 1966, he changed his name to Allah Rakha Rahman after his family converted to Islam in the
late 1980's. Rahman was forced to shoulder the responsibilities of his family at the age of nine after his father RK Shekhar, who was a composer, arranger and conductor for Malayalam movies, died due to illness.
The music genius came to the limelight with his music for a Bombay Dyeing ad and Leo Coffee in 1980's which became very popular. But the major break in his career came when noted filmmaker Mani Ratnam approached Rahman, who was then a keyboard player with composer Illayaraja, to compose for his film Roja in 1992.
The music of the film, which was a refreshing change from the run-of-the-mill renditions, made Rahman a star overnight and brought him his maiden Best Music Director trophy at the National Film Awards, the first time ever by a debutante film composer.
Rahman was introduced to the Hindi film industry in Ram Gopal Verma's Rangeela. The music of the film became a rage and the genius continued to give some brilliant
compositions for films such as Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan and Rang De Basanti among others.
What made Rahman's music click with the listeners was the refreshing use of percussions, sound and melody, most of which were inspired from the Indian folk music.
Rahman developed a trademark by mixing traditional Indian tunes with International beats from African drums to electronic funk. The composer is also famous for his fondness to the newest sound and technologies in the world of music.
His 1998 super-hit composition 'chaiyya chaiyya' which was deeply rooted in Sufi mysticism, became a rage among Indians and is still considered one of the best compositions of the musician. Rahman gradually became a known face on the
international platform and in 1999 he performed with Michael Jackson in Munich for 'Michael Jackson and Friends Concert'.
In 2002, he gave the music for his maiden stage production Bombay Dreams directed by legendary musical theatre composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Rahman's music was also a hit from London's "West End" to New York's "Broadway".
In 2004, with Finnish folk music band "Varttina", he composed the music for The Lord of the Rings theater production. Rahman's composition "Jai Ho" for British director
Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire has been lapped up by western audiences and made headlines when world renowned fashion designer John Galliano used it as a theme during his fashion show.
The music has already earned him the Critics Choice Award for Best Composer in 2008 and the Golden Globe in the category of Best Original Score. A four-time National Award winner, Rahman was honoured with the Padma Shri and received six awards at the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, besides 11 awards for his scores at the
Filmfare and Filmfare Awards South each.
In 2006, he received an honorary award from Stanford University for his contributions to global music. In 1995, he also received the Mauritius National Award and a Malaysian Award.
The music director, who is known for his humble demeanour, gave a new definition to patriotism with his modern rendition of 'Vande Mataram'. His latest tract 'Jiya Se Jiya'
is another attempt to send the message of peace and love through music.
Rahman, who maintains a low-profile, tied the knot with Sairo Bano in 1995 and the couple has three children -- Khadijah, Rahima and Aman. The music composer is also involved with charitable causes and had conducted concerts to raise funds for cancer
patients.
In 2004, Rahman was appointed as the global ambassador of the Stop TB partnership, a project by the World Health Organisation (WHO). He also recently launched the A R Rahman foundation, which is a step towards eradication of hunger and poverty.
in his cap by bagging two Oscars for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
It was a Jai ho for the soft-spoken Rahman, hailed by Time Magazine as the 'Mozart of Madras', when he walked to receive the award for Best Original Score and Best Song Jai Ho.
The 'Mozart of Madras', who redefined contemporary Indian music and has been a role model for millions of Indians, has already won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for his
music in Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire.
The 43-year-old music wizard, who has enthralled audience in the country and abroad with his heartwarming symphonies, is creating waves on the international stage with
his composition in Slumdog Millionaire.
Born as AS Dileep Kumar in a musically affluent family in Chennai on January 6, 1966, he changed his name to Allah Rakha Rahman after his family converted to Islam in the
late 1980's. Rahman was forced to shoulder the responsibilities of his family at the age of nine after his father RK Shekhar, who was a composer, arranger and conductor for Malayalam movies, died due to illness.
The music genius came to the limelight with his music for a Bombay Dyeing ad and Leo Coffee in 1980's which became very popular. But the major break in his career came when noted filmmaker Mani Ratnam approached Rahman, who was then a keyboard player with composer Illayaraja, to compose for his film Roja in 1992.
The music of the film, which was a refreshing change from the run-of-the-mill renditions, made Rahman a star overnight and brought him his maiden Best Music Director trophy at the National Film Awards, the first time ever by a debutante film composer.
Rahman was introduced to the Hindi film industry in Ram Gopal Verma's Rangeela. The music of the film became a rage and the genius continued to give some brilliant
compositions for films such as Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan and Rang De Basanti among others.
What made Rahman's music click with the listeners was the refreshing use of percussions, sound and melody, most of which were inspired from the Indian folk music.
Rahman developed a trademark by mixing traditional Indian tunes with International beats from African drums to electronic funk. The composer is also famous for his fondness to the newest sound and technologies in the world of music.
His 1998 super-hit composition 'chaiyya chaiyya' which was deeply rooted in Sufi mysticism, became a rage among Indians and is still considered one of the best compositions of the musician. Rahman gradually became a known face on the
international platform and in 1999 he performed with Michael Jackson in Munich for 'Michael Jackson and Friends Concert'.
In 2002, he gave the music for his maiden stage production Bombay Dreams directed by legendary musical theatre composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Rahman's music was also a hit from London's "West End" to New York's "Broadway".
In 2004, with Finnish folk music band "Varttina", he composed the music for The Lord of the Rings theater production. Rahman's composition "Jai Ho" for British director
Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire has been lapped up by western audiences and made headlines when world renowned fashion designer John Galliano used it as a theme during his fashion show.
The music has already earned him the Critics Choice Award for Best Composer in 2008 and the Golden Globe in the category of Best Original Score. A four-time National Award winner, Rahman was honoured with the Padma Shri and received six awards at the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, besides 11 awards for his scores at the
Filmfare and Filmfare Awards South each.
In 2006, he received an honorary award from Stanford University for his contributions to global music. In 1995, he also received the Mauritius National Award and a Malaysian Award.
The music director, who is known for his humble demeanour, gave a new definition to patriotism with his modern rendition of 'Vande Mataram'. His latest tract 'Jiya Se Jiya'
is another attempt to send the message of peace and love through music.
Rahman, who maintains a low-profile, tied the knot with Sairo Bano in 1995 and the couple has three children -- Khadijah, Rahima and Aman. The music composer is also involved with charitable causes and had conducted concerts to raise funds for cancer
patients.
In 2004, Rahman was appointed as the global ambassador of the Stop TB partnership, a project by the World Health Organisation (WHO). He also recently launched the A R Rahman foundation, which is a step towards eradication of hunger and poverty.
Best Film: Slumdog Millionaire makes it India's night at the Oscars
It was a night to remember for India at the 81st annual Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday (early Monday in India). Slumdog Millionaire swept the Oscars with the film bagging eight awards, including Best Director and Best Film.
Among the winners were three Indians, music composer AR Rahman (best Original Score and best Original Song, Jai Ho), lyricist Gulzar (Jai Ho), and sound engineer Resul Pookutty (best Sound Mixing). AR Rahman became the first Indian to win two Oscars.
Danny Boyle picked up one of the biggest awards of the night, the title of Best Director, for Slumdog Millionaire. The cast and crew of the film went on stage to collect the Best Film award, which went to producer Christian Colson.
Simon Beaufoy was awarded for best Adapted Screenplay, Anthony Dod Mantle for best Cinematographer, Ian Tapp, Richard Pryke, and Pookutty for best Sound Mixing and Chris Dickens for best Film Editing.
Earlier, Pookutty became only the second Indian to win the prestigious award, after Bhanu Athaiya for the costumes of Gandhi in 1982. (Filmmaker Satyajit Ray was given an honorary Oscar while he was on his deathbed in Calcutta in 1992.)
Accepting the accolade, Pookutty said, "This is not just an award. This is history being handed over to me."
He was soon overtaken by Rahman, however, who became the first Indian to win two Oscars. Rahman shared the Oscar for Best Song for Jai Ho with lyricist Gulzar, who wasn't present at the function.
Other winners of the most coveted categories included Kate Winslet as Best Actress for The Reader and Sean Penn as Best Actor for Milk.
Heath Ledger won the Oscar posthumously for best Supporting Actor for his diabolical act in The Dark Knight while Penelope Cruz picked up the best Supporting Actress Oscar for Vicky Cristina Barcelona.
Dustin Lance Black scooped the Oscar for best Original Screenplay for the film Milk.
Among the winners were three Indians, music composer AR Rahman (best Original Score and best Original Song, Jai Ho), lyricist Gulzar (Jai Ho), and sound engineer Resul Pookutty (best Sound Mixing). AR Rahman became the first Indian to win two Oscars.
Danny Boyle picked up one of the biggest awards of the night, the title of Best Director, for Slumdog Millionaire. The cast and crew of the film went on stage to collect the Best Film award, which went to producer Christian Colson.
Simon Beaufoy was awarded for best Adapted Screenplay, Anthony Dod Mantle for best Cinematographer, Ian Tapp, Richard Pryke, and Pookutty for best Sound Mixing and Chris Dickens for best Film Editing.
Earlier, Pookutty became only the second Indian to win the prestigious award, after Bhanu Athaiya for the costumes of Gandhi in 1982. (Filmmaker Satyajit Ray was given an honorary Oscar while he was on his deathbed in Calcutta in 1992.)
Accepting the accolade, Pookutty said, "This is not just an award. This is history being handed over to me."
He was soon overtaken by Rahman, however, who became the first Indian to win two Oscars. Rahman shared the Oscar for Best Song for Jai Ho with lyricist Gulzar, who wasn't present at the function.
Other winners of the most coveted categories included Kate Winslet as Best Actress for The Reader and Sean Penn as Best Actor for Milk.
Heath Ledger won the Oscar posthumously for best Supporting Actor for his diabolical act in The Dark Knight while Penelope Cruz picked up the best Supporting Actress Oscar for Vicky Cristina Barcelona.
Dustin Lance Black scooped the Oscar for best Original Screenplay for the film Milk.
Dev Patel wrecked our relationship, says Freida's fiance
Slumdog Millionaire actress Freida Pinto's fiance blames the movie, and co-star Dev Patel, for the end of his relationship with the actress.
Jilted fiance Rohan Antao revealed that Pinto not only compelled him to stay mum about their engagement for the benefit of the movie, but also snubbed him to be with her on-screen lover.
The 24-year-old said his former love gave him the thumbs down in a phone call while she was promoting the film with her co-star, who is six years younger to her.
"She ended it with me after getting close to Dev Patel," News of the World quoted Rohan as saying. "Now everywhere I go, I see them on billboards. I am devastated.
"I hate the film. It wrecked my relationship. As soon as it became a success and she started spending all her time with Dev, she ended it," Antao said.
He continued: "She decided she didn't want to be with me anymore. She said she wanted us to be friends. But how can I be when she has destroyed my faith in love?
"She is infatuated with Dev. I don't know if they were having a sexual relationship, but if I came face to face with him I would have things to say.
"This is a very hard time for me, because as much as I don't want to let go, I have to.
"I wish her success in her career, but I can't watch the Oscars, and I don't want to watch the film -- it wrecked our love."
Jilted fiance Rohan Antao revealed that Pinto not only compelled him to stay mum about their engagement for the benefit of the movie, but also snubbed him to be with her on-screen lover.
The 24-year-old said his former love gave him the thumbs down in a phone call while she was promoting the film with her co-star, who is six years younger to her.
"She ended it with me after getting close to Dev Patel," News of the World quoted Rohan as saying. "Now everywhere I go, I see them on billboards. I am devastated.
"I hate the film. It wrecked my relationship. As soon as it became a success and she started spending all her time with Dev, she ended it," Antao said.
He continued: "She decided she didn't want to be with me anymore. She said she wanted us to be friends. But how can I be when she has destroyed my faith in love?
"She is infatuated with Dev. I don't know if they were having a sexual relationship, but if I came face to face with him I would have things to say.
"This is a very hard time for me, because as much as I don't want to let go, I have to.
"I wish her success in her career, but I can't watch the Oscars, and I don't want to watch the film -- it wrecked our love."
Friday, January 30, 2009
Hyd Chord-ial
That's the genesis of their debut album Samhitha brought to you by Times Music. But as they say, neither their coming together nor the samhitha or the bringing together of two distinct classical styles of carnatic and western music, would have been possible without the expertise of their guru Sangeetacharya Dr Vyzarsu Balasubrahmanyam, a classical musician, musicologist and composer of high repute.
So, what's their kind of fusion? It is a classical cohesion of elements as disparate as varnams, kritis and tillanas of carnatic music and western orchestration. And contrary to the popular belief that classical music has a limited appeal due to its complexity, this bold experimentation is both contemplative and energetic. The group in one breath claims it has caught the imagination of music lovers across tastes and age groups. And as Avinash the lyricist of the group puts it, "Our classical fusion tracks are entertaining to all classes of audience but particularly to young people."
And to put all doubt and cynicism to rest, all the eight members of the band are well grounded in both light and classical styles of music. And young as they are, they already have the distinction of releasing a private album or as Pranavi reels off, "Deepu, Harshika,Chaitanya and I have done solo and duets for many Tollywood films like Happy Days, Yamadonga, Sri Ramadasu, Notebook and Vinayakadu." No mean feat this!
The group has come together with the express purpose of showcasing local talent and to change the present trend in Tollywood of what they call "outsourcing talent" from other states. "We would like Tollywood to draw on local talent and would also like to take our music to the world stage, says Raghuram.
And if the overwhelming response to the concert and the presence of music stalwarts like MM Keervani, Koti and Dr Yella Venkateswara Rao is anything to go by, this may not be so distant a dream!
So, what's their kind of fusion? It is a classical cohesion of elements as disparate as varnams, kritis and tillanas of carnatic music and western orchestration. And contrary to the popular belief that classical music has a limited appeal due to its complexity, this bold experimentation is both contemplative and energetic. The group in one breath claims it has caught the imagination of music lovers across tastes and age groups. And as Avinash the lyricist of the group puts it, "Our classical fusion tracks are entertaining to all classes of audience but particularly to young people."
And to put all doubt and cynicism to rest, all the eight members of the band are well grounded in both light and classical styles of music. And young as they are, they already have the distinction of releasing a private album or as Pranavi reels off, "Deepu, Harshika,Chaitanya and I have done solo and duets for many Tollywood films like Happy Days, Yamadonga, Sri Ramadasu, Notebook and Vinayakadu." No mean feat this!
The group has come together with the express purpose of showcasing local talent and to change the present trend in Tollywood of what they call "outsourcing talent" from other states. "We would like Tollywood to draw on local talent and would also like to take our music to the world stage, says Raghuram.
And if the overwhelming response to the concert and the presence of music stalwarts like MM Keervani, Koti and Dr Yella Venkateswara Rao is anything to go by, this may not be so distant a dream!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
'Dark Knight' wins big at People's Choice
Holy, People's Choice Awards, Batman! "The Dark Knight" soared away with every trophy it was nominated for last night at the 35th annual fan-favorite CBS ceremony, The Associated Press reports.
The caped crusader flick won five awards, including favorite cast, superhero, action movie and on-screen matchup for Christian Bale's Batman and Heath Ledger's Joker.
Ellen DeGeneres and "Dancing with the Stars" were early winners, winning for favorite talk show host and favorite competition/reality show, respectively.
"I wish I could share this with you," DeGeneres told the audience while clutching her trophy.
Other winners selected by Internet voters in categories spanning movies, television and music included Chris Brown as favorite male singer and "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood as favorite female singer, star under 35 and for country song for "Last Name."
The fan-favorite CBS ceremony was hosted by Queen Latifah and returned to the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles for its typical star-studded live-show format, following last year's writer's strike-friendly, pretaped program.
Awards selected by Internet balloting were presented in more than 40 categories, including scene-stealing guest star, which went to Robin Williams for his guest-starring role on "Law & Order: SVU," rock song, which Kid Rock won for his song, "All Summer Long," and leading lady, which went to Kate Hudson.
The caped crusader flick won five awards, including favorite cast, superhero, action movie and on-screen matchup for Christian Bale's Batman and Heath Ledger's Joker.
Ellen DeGeneres and "Dancing with the Stars" were early winners, winning for favorite talk show host and favorite competition/reality show, respectively.
"I wish I could share this with you," DeGeneres told the audience while clutching her trophy.
Other winners selected by Internet voters in categories spanning movies, television and music included Chris Brown as favorite male singer and "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood as favorite female singer, star under 35 and for country song for "Last Name."
The fan-favorite CBS ceremony was hosted by Queen Latifah and returned to the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles for its typical star-studded live-show format, following last year's writer's strike-friendly, pretaped program.
Awards selected by Internet balloting were presented in more than 40 categories, including scene-stealing guest star, which went to Robin Williams for his guest-starring role on "Law & Order: SVU," rock song, which Kid Rock won for his song, "All Summer Long," and leading lady, which went to Kate Hudson.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
AR Rahman turns 43
AR Rahman turned 43 on Tuesday, as television and FM channels played special programmes to mark the day but the music maestro said the celebrations were low key due to Muharram.
Speaking at the South India launch of a mobile phone, Rahman said the day was usual for him and there were not much celebrations as the Muslims mourn during the month of Muharram.
Rahman is an inspiration for many. For instance, acclaimed singer Sukhwinder Singh gives the credit of his success to the composer.
“Rahman has been a catalyst in my success because when everyone turned me down and ridiculed my song Thaiyan thaiyan, he was the only one to believe in me. With a few changes in lyrics, he gave me my first big success in the form of Chaiyyan chaiyyan," Sukhwinder said.
With 11 Filmfare Awards to his credit, Rahman has achieved the status of legend in the lives of upcoming singers who dream to work with the composer, at least once.
“Rahman can easily be termed as the living legend in Bollywood. He is one of the few people who made Indian music popular internationally. It will be a dream come true if I get an opportunity to work with him,” said Abhijeet Sawant, who won the first season of musical reality show Indian Idol.
Said Harshit Saxena, runner-up of Amul Star Voice of India: “Rahman always does an excellent job. Everybody has a dream to work with him, and being a great fan of his, I possess the same.”
The musician got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's Roja and later Rahman composed for many films in the south. The film was dubbed in Hindi and the songs like Dil hai chota sa, came as a whiff of fresh air for music lovers who wanted more from this musical genius.
Winner of numerous prestigious awards, Rahman has recently been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
So what is in Rahman's music that clicks so well with audiences the world over?
“Rahman's music spells magic. We actually wait for his albums. You can see his soul, hard work and dedication in his songs. He never compromises with his style, which is so distinct,” shared Prajakta Shukre, a finalist of Indian Idol 1, who is currently singing for regional films.
Abhijeet Sawant added: “Rahman has never gone with formula music and is on a different level altogether. A calm and soft individual, he has a very different vision. His music is never dictated by popular demand. He always experiments and that is what people like about him.”
With his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue, Rahman's fans will have no dearth of good music to hear and hum.
Speaking at the South India launch of a mobile phone, Rahman said the day was usual for him and there were not much celebrations as the Muslims mourn during the month of Muharram.
Rahman is an inspiration for many. For instance, acclaimed singer Sukhwinder Singh gives the credit of his success to the composer.
“Rahman has been a catalyst in my success because when everyone turned me down and ridiculed my song Thaiyan thaiyan, he was the only one to believe in me. With a few changes in lyrics, he gave me my first big success in the form of Chaiyyan chaiyyan," Sukhwinder said.
With 11 Filmfare Awards to his credit, Rahman has achieved the status of legend in the lives of upcoming singers who dream to work with the composer, at least once.
“Rahman can easily be termed as the living legend in Bollywood. He is one of the few people who made Indian music popular internationally. It will be a dream come true if I get an opportunity to work with him,” said Abhijeet Sawant, who won the first season of musical reality show Indian Idol.
Said Harshit Saxena, runner-up of Amul Star Voice of India: “Rahman always does an excellent job. Everybody has a dream to work with him, and being a great fan of his, I possess the same.”
The musician got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's Roja and later Rahman composed for many films in the south. The film was dubbed in Hindi and the songs like Dil hai chota sa, came as a whiff of fresh air for music lovers who wanted more from this musical genius.
Winner of numerous prestigious awards, Rahman has recently been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
So what is in Rahman's music that clicks so well with audiences the world over?
“Rahman's music spells magic. We actually wait for his albums. You can see his soul, hard work and dedication in his songs. He never compromises with his style, which is so distinct,” shared Prajakta Shukre, a finalist of Indian Idol 1, who is currently singing for regional films.
Abhijeet Sawant added: “Rahman has never gone with formula music and is on a different level altogether. A calm and soft individual, he has a very different vision. His music is never dictated by popular demand. He always experiments and that is what people like about him.”
With his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue, Rahman's fans will have no dearth of good music to hear and hum.
BBC Sound of 2009: The pundits
More than 130 influential and impartial UK-based music critics and broadcasters were canvassed to find the best new acts for the BBC Sound of 2009 list. They were:
Mark Adams - Box TV head of music (4Music, The Box, Kiss, Smash Hits, Magic, Q, Kerrang!)
Sean Adams - Drowned in Sound editor-in-chief
Edward Adoo - NME, BBC Asian Network
Henry Barnes - Guardian.co.uk
Mark Beaumont - NME
Joanne Bell - BFBS head of music
Sarah Boden - Observer Music Monthly
Clint Boon - Xfm Manchester DJ
Helen Bownass - More magazine
Paul Brannigan - Kerrang! magazine editor
Lauren Brennan - BBC Radio 1 music scheduler
Lucio Buffone - Capital FM and Hit 40 UK DJ
Jim Butler - Observer Music Monthly, Big Issue
Tim Chipping - HM-PJ music editor (Holy Moly, Popjustice, 4Music)
Stuart Clarke - Music Week magazine talent editor
Richard Clayton - Financial Times, Sunday Times
Greg Cochrane - BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat music reporter
Hattie Collins - RWD magazine editor, i-D music editor, The Guardian, Big Issue
Scott Colothan - Gigwise.com editor
Matt Cook - MTV UK director of talent and music
Andy Cowan - Hip-Hop Connection magazine editor
Will Cozens - Kiss DJ
James Curran - Absolute Radio head of music
Robery D'Ovidio - Heat Radio station manger
Rob Da Bank - BBC Radio 1 DJ, Bestival festival organiser
Kim Dawson - Daily Star Playlist editor
Nick Decosemo - Mixmag editor
Antonio Dellamura - Pyro Radio station manager
Niall Doherty - The Fly magazine editor
Andi Durrant - Galaxy Radio DJ
John Earls - Teletext, News of the World
Ben East - Metro
Rick Edwards - T4 & Xfm presenter
Matilda Egere-Cooper - Independent
George Ergatoudis - BBC Radio 1 head of music
Chantelle Fiddy - Thelondonpaper, Mixmag, i-D, Tank, RWD magazines
Mark Findlay - Capital FM and Hit Music Network head of music
Paul Flynn - Grazia, i-D, Pop, Attitude magazines
James Foley - Record of the Day magazine music editor
Harriet Gibsone - The Fly magazine Ones To Watch editor
Ben Gilbert - Yahoo! Music UK
Sam Grape - Thatgrapejuice.net blog
Phoebe Greenwood - Times music editor
Gareth Grundy - Observer Music Monthly deputy editor
Hanna Hanra - The Pix, i-D, Sunday Times Style
Nigel Harding - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Simon Harper - Clash magazine editor
Bob Harris - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Gary Harrison - Gaydar Radio head of music
Todd Hart - Dalston Oxfam Shop and Der Fresh Creamy blogger
Jaimie Hodgson - NME new music editor
Alison Howe - BBC Later... With Jools Holland producer
Ludovic Hunter Tilney - Financial Times
Lara Hutcheson - Top of the Pops magazine acting editor
Allan Jones - Uncut magazine editor
Tim Jonze - Guardian.co.uk music editor
Anna Karatziva - MTV UK label director, talent and music
Nik Keene - Contactmusic.com editor
John Kennedy - Xfm DJ
Jordan Kensington - Invincible magazine editor-in-chief
Ted Kessler - Q magazine reviews editor
Talia Kraines - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio producer, Londonist music editor, Popstarz DJ
Ras Kwame - BBC 1Xtra and Radio 1 DJ
George Lamb - BBC 6 Music DJ
Stuart Last - BBC Radio 1 Jo Whiley producer
Paul Lester - Guardian new bands editor
Luke Lewis - NME.com
Caspar Llewellyn Smith - Observer Music Monthly editor
Geoff Lloyd - Absolute Radio DJ
Janice Long - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Alexia Loundras - The Independent
Laura Lukanz - BBC 1Xtra music manager
Dorian Lynskey - Guardian
Ben Machell - Times
Paul MacInnes - Guardian.co.uk entertainment editor
Paul Mack - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio acting station manager
Gavin Martin - Daily Mirror
Nadine McBay - Metro music editor
John McConnell - Prancehall.com, Guardian.co.uk, The Sun, Vice, NME, Fader
Neil McCormick - Daily Telegraph
Craig McLean - Daily Telegraph, Times, Independent on Sunday, Observer Music Monthly
Conor McNicholas - NME editor
Malik Meer - Guardian Guide editor
Toya Melvina - Toya's World blog
Alexander Milas - Metal Hammer magazine editor
Alex Miller - Vice magazine
Mistajam - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Iain Moffat - Rock Sound, Attitude, The Fly magazines
David Mogendorff - MTV UK talent and music
John Mulvey - Uncut magazine deputy editor, The Times
Jon Myer - BBC 6 Music music manager
Nick Neads - T4 head of music (Channel 4)
Tim Noakes - Dazed & Confused magazine music editor
David O'Coy - Fused magazine editor
Chloe Pearson - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Chris Price - MTV UK head of music programming
Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Becky Reed - Clickmusic.com editor
Paul Rees - Q magazine editor
Marc Riley - BBC 6 Music DJ
John Robinson - Guardian Guide, Uncut magazine
Peter Robinson - Popjustice.com editor
Tom Robinson - BBC 6 Music DJ
Jude Rogers - Guardian, Word, New Statesman, Mercury Prize judge
Joanna Russell - Absolute Radio DJ
Chris Salmon - Guardian
Paul Scaife - Record of the Day editor in chief
Rachel Seagrave - BBC 6 Music scheduler
Victoria Segal - Times
DJ Semtex - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Paul Sexton - Sunday Times Culture, Financial Times, Billboard, Sunday Express
Eddie Shaw - Lincs FM group head of music
Adam Sherwin - The Times People editor
Jeff Smith - BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music head of music
Mike Smith - Nothing But Green Lights blog
David Smyth - London Evening Standard
Huw Stephens - BBC Radio 1 DJ
Paul Stokes - NME news editor
Tom Stroud - The Local Radio Company head of music
Stuart Stubbs - Loud & Quiet magazine editor
Caroline Sullivan - Guardian
Mark Sutherland - Billboard magazine global bureau chief
Jacqui Swift - The Sun's Something For The Weekend
Ashley Tanton - Likesounds.com editor
Darren Taylor - Rock Sound magazine editor
Graeme Thomson - Observer Music Monthly, Word magazines
Adrian Thrills - Daily Mail
Terry Underhill - Guardian Media Group head of music
Tim Vernon - Absolute Radio music producer
Lisa Verrico - Times
Mike Walsh - Xfm head of music
Andy Welch - Press Association music editor
Ben Wolford - Hit Music Network music scheduler
Jonas Woost - Last FM head of music
Mark Adams - Box TV head of music (4Music, The Box, Kiss, Smash Hits, Magic, Q, Kerrang!)
Sean Adams - Drowned in Sound editor-in-chief
Edward Adoo - NME, BBC Asian Network
Henry Barnes - Guardian.co.uk
Mark Beaumont - NME
Joanne Bell - BFBS head of music
Sarah Boden - Observer Music Monthly
Clint Boon - Xfm Manchester DJ
Helen Bownass - More magazine
Paul Brannigan - Kerrang! magazine editor
Lauren Brennan - BBC Radio 1 music scheduler
Lucio Buffone - Capital FM and Hit 40 UK DJ
Jim Butler - Observer Music Monthly, Big Issue
Tim Chipping - HM-PJ music editor (Holy Moly, Popjustice, 4Music)
Stuart Clarke - Music Week magazine talent editor
Richard Clayton - Financial Times, Sunday Times
Greg Cochrane - BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat music reporter
Hattie Collins - RWD magazine editor, i-D music editor, The Guardian, Big Issue
Scott Colothan - Gigwise.com editor
Matt Cook - MTV UK director of talent and music
Andy Cowan - Hip-Hop Connection magazine editor
Will Cozens - Kiss DJ
James Curran - Absolute Radio head of music
Robery D'Ovidio - Heat Radio station manger
Rob Da Bank - BBC Radio 1 DJ, Bestival festival organiser
Kim Dawson - Daily Star Playlist editor
Nick Decosemo - Mixmag editor
Antonio Dellamura - Pyro Radio station manager
Niall Doherty - The Fly magazine editor
Andi Durrant - Galaxy Radio DJ
John Earls - Teletext, News of the World
Ben East - Metro
Rick Edwards - T4 & Xfm presenter
Matilda Egere-Cooper - Independent
George Ergatoudis - BBC Radio 1 head of music
Chantelle Fiddy - Thelondonpaper, Mixmag, i-D, Tank, RWD magazines
Mark Findlay - Capital FM and Hit Music Network head of music
Paul Flynn - Grazia, i-D, Pop, Attitude magazines
James Foley - Record of the Day magazine music editor
Harriet Gibsone - The Fly magazine Ones To Watch editor
Ben Gilbert - Yahoo! Music UK
Sam Grape - Thatgrapejuice.net blog
Phoebe Greenwood - Times music editor
Gareth Grundy - Observer Music Monthly deputy editor
Hanna Hanra - The Pix, i-D, Sunday Times Style
Nigel Harding - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Simon Harper - Clash magazine editor
Bob Harris - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Gary Harrison - Gaydar Radio head of music
Todd Hart - Dalston Oxfam Shop and Der Fresh Creamy blogger
Jaimie Hodgson - NME new music editor
Alison Howe - BBC Later... With Jools Holland producer
Ludovic Hunter Tilney - Financial Times
Lara Hutcheson - Top of the Pops magazine acting editor
Allan Jones - Uncut magazine editor
Tim Jonze - Guardian.co.uk music editor
Anna Karatziva - MTV UK label director, talent and music
Nik Keene - Contactmusic.com editor
John Kennedy - Xfm DJ
Jordan Kensington - Invincible magazine editor-in-chief
Ted Kessler - Q magazine reviews editor
Talia Kraines - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio producer, Londonist music editor, Popstarz DJ
Ras Kwame - BBC 1Xtra and Radio 1 DJ
George Lamb - BBC 6 Music DJ
Stuart Last - BBC Radio 1 Jo Whiley producer
Paul Lester - Guardian new bands editor
Luke Lewis - NME.com
Caspar Llewellyn Smith - Observer Music Monthly editor
Geoff Lloyd - Absolute Radio DJ
Janice Long - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Alexia Loundras - The Independent
Laura Lukanz - BBC 1Xtra music manager
Dorian Lynskey - Guardian
Ben Machell - Times
Paul MacInnes - Guardian.co.uk entertainment editor
Paul Mack - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio acting station manager
Gavin Martin - Daily Mirror
Nadine McBay - Metro music editor
John McConnell - Prancehall.com, Guardian.co.uk, The Sun, Vice, NME, Fader
Neil McCormick - Daily Telegraph
Craig McLean - Daily Telegraph, Times, Independent on Sunday, Observer Music Monthly
Conor McNicholas - NME editor
Malik Meer - Guardian Guide editor
Toya Melvina - Toya's World blog
Alexander Milas - Metal Hammer magazine editor
Alex Miller - Vice magazine
Mistajam - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Iain Moffat - Rock Sound, Attitude, The Fly magazines
David Mogendorff - MTV UK talent and music
John Mulvey - Uncut magazine deputy editor, The Times
Jon Myer - BBC 6 Music music manager
Nick Neads - T4 head of music (Channel 4)
Tim Noakes - Dazed & Confused magazine music editor
David O'Coy - Fused magazine editor
Chloe Pearson - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Chris Price - MTV UK head of music programming
Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Becky Reed - Clickmusic.com editor
Paul Rees - Q magazine editor
Marc Riley - BBC 6 Music DJ
John Robinson - Guardian Guide, Uncut magazine
Peter Robinson - Popjustice.com editor
Tom Robinson - BBC 6 Music DJ
Jude Rogers - Guardian, Word, New Statesman, Mercury Prize judge
Joanna Russell - Absolute Radio DJ
Chris Salmon - Guardian
Paul Scaife - Record of the Day editor in chief
Rachel Seagrave - BBC 6 Music scheduler
Victoria Segal - Times
DJ Semtex - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Paul Sexton - Sunday Times Culture, Financial Times, Billboard, Sunday Express
Eddie Shaw - Lincs FM group head of music
Adam Sherwin - The Times People editor
Jeff Smith - BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music head of music
Mike Smith - Nothing But Green Lights blog
David Smyth - London Evening Standard
Huw Stephens - BBC Radio 1 DJ
Paul Stokes - NME news editor
Tom Stroud - The Local Radio Company head of music
Stuart Stubbs - Loud & Quiet magazine editor
Caroline Sullivan - Guardian
Mark Sutherland - Billboard magazine global bureau chief
Jacqui Swift - The Sun's Something For The Weekend
Ashley Tanton - Likesounds.com editor
Darren Taylor - Rock Sound magazine editor
Graeme Thomson - Observer Music Monthly, Word magazines
Adrian Thrills - Daily Mail
Terry Underhill - Guardian Media Group head of music
Tim Vernon - Absolute Radio music producer
Lisa Verrico - Times
Mike Walsh - Xfm head of music
Andy Welch - Press Association music editor
Ben Wolford - Hit Music Network music scheduler
Jonas Woost - Last FM head of music
BBC Sound of 2009: Empire of the Sun
Australian fantasy pop duo Empire of the Sun have come fourth on the BBC's Sound of 2009 list, which features the best bands and singers to watch in the next 12 months.
One act from the top five is being unveiled every day this week, counting down to Friday, when the number one will be revealed.
Empire of the Sun are on a spiritual mission.
Dressed as extras from a psychedelic Star Wars, the duo are on an epic journey to seek out ancient cultures across the globe, searching for inner enlightenment while creating a musical dynasty that will last for ever.
It seems like a tall order. But the ambitious, enigmatic and utterly egotastic Empire of the Sun are dead set on their task.
So their debut album, the story it tells and the places it takes them is "a walk to finding the inner being", singer Luke Steele says. "It's kind of like a spiritual road movie.
"We went to Shanghai and met the emperors, and we went to Mexico and met the Aztecs, and now we're going to Iceland.
"It's now or never and we have to push the limit. There's no holding back and there's nothing to lose. We really want to make something otherworldly and special."
Steele, who also fronts indie group The Sleepy Jackson, has teamed up with Nick Littlemore of electronic outfit Pnau, who is friends with Sir Elton John, has worked with The Killers and been in a band with Ladyhawke.
Together, the pair's 1980s-influenced soft pop synthesisers and blissed-out space beats have already taken them into the Australian top 10.
The music is coupled with a striking image of two colourful, cosmic crusaders that has been inspired by movie characters and rosily-remembered childhood idols.
"We are superheroes. We are Emperor Steele and Lord Littlemore," proclaims the singer.
In the video for their first single, Walking on a Dream, the pair are seen in front of the Shanghai skyline striking overblown, dramatic poses.
Steele grandly waves huge feathers and a big red stick while wearing white face paint, a bright blue oriental frock coat, gold ceremonial neckwear and a tall ornamental crown that looks like it might have been a rather nice lampshade in a former life.
"We've done the band thing, which is great, but we wanted it to be a lot more epic and theatrical," he declares.
"We want to start something a bit bigger than what bands have been for the past 20 years. We want to bring entertainment and colour and positivity and melody back into it."
The album, also called Walking on a Dream, was made over two years between other projects. "I was only ever in town for a night in Sydney, where the studio was, so it was all quite spontaneous," Steele says.
"I'm really good at writing top lines and coming up with chord progressions and production." Littlemore is all of the above plus is "amazing in terms of writing words", the singer says. "He's quite romantic with his words. He's like a beat poet."
The group borrowed their name from a 1984 JG Ballard novel, which was adapted for the screen by Steven Spielberg in 1987.
"We wanted something quite epic," Steele says, citing the history of Chinese emperors and the importance of the sun to the Aztecs.
"And obviously Jesus Christ is the son of God and everything," he adds, slightly inexplicably.
"We were looking for a name and we saw that and it just seemed so fitting."
Steele has become so immersed in the band's mythology that he has even named his daughter, born in October, Sunny Tiger. (The band also have a song called Tiger By Your Side and tigers feature in their graphics.)
The singer now wants to blow the minds of young fans in the same way that pop stars did when he was growing up in the 1980s.
"We're so visual," he says. "We want to make something that as a child you see and you just love because it's so colourful and it's got imagination.
"Music is magic, and with imagination combined it can be completely epic. We've been both on the road doing shows for the last 10 years and we wanted something that's higher - visually, mentally, physically, a bigger level, a bigger vision that can last for ever."
One act from the top five is being unveiled every day this week, counting down to Friday, when the number one will be revealed.
Empire of the Sun are on a spiritual mission.
Dressed as extras from a psychedelic Star Wars, the duo are on an epic journey to seek out ancient cultures across the globe, searching for inner enlightenment while creating a musical dynasty that will last for ever.
It seems like a tall order. But the ambitious, enigmatic and utterly egotastic Empire of the Sun are dead set on their task.
So their debut album, the story it tells and the places it takes them is "a walk to finding the inner being", singer Luke Steele says. "It's kind of like a spiritual road movie.
"We went to Shanghai and met the emperors, and we went to Mexico and met the Aztecs, and now we're going to Iceland.
"It's now or never and we have to push the limit. There's no holding back and there's nothing to lose. We really want to make something otherworldly and special."
Steele, who also fronts indie group The Sleepy Jackson, has teamed up with Nick Littlemore of electronic outfit Pnau, who is friends with Sir Elton John, has worked with The Killers and been in a band with Ladyhawke.
Together, the pair's 1980s-influenced soft pop synthesisers and blissed-out space beats have already taken them into the Australian top 10.
The music is coupled with a striking image of two colourful, cosmic crusaders that has been inspired by movie characters and rosily-remembered childhood idols.
"We are superheroes. We are Emperor Steele and Lord Littlemore," proclaims the singer.
In the video for their first single, Walking on a Dream, the pair are seen in front of the Shanghai skyline striking overblown, dramatic poses.
Steele grandly waves huge feathers and a big red stick while wearing white face paint, a bright blue oriental frock coat, gold ceremonial neckwear and a tall ornamental crown that looks like it might have been a rather nice lampshade in a former life.
"We've done the band thing, which is great, but we wanted it to be a lot more epic and theatrical," he declares.
"We want to start something a bit bigger than what bands have been for the past 20 years. We want to bring entertainment and colour and positivity and melody back into it."
The album, also called Walking on a Dream, was made over two years between other projects. "I was only ever in town for a night in Sydney, where the studio was, so it was all quite spontaneous," Steele says.
"I'm really good at writing top lines and coming up with chord progressions and production." Littlemore is all of the above plus is "amazing in terms of writing words", the singer says. "He's quite romantic with his words. He's like a beat poet."
The group borrowed their name from a 1984 JG Ballard novel, which was adapted for the screen by Steven Spielberg in 1987.
"We wanted something quite epic," Steele says, citing the history of Chinese emperors and the importance of the sun to the Aztecs.
"And obviously Jesus Christ is the son of God and everything," he adds, slightly inexplicably.
"We were looking for a name and we saw that and it just seemed so fitting."
Steele has become so immersed in the band's mythology that he has even named his daughter, born in October, Sunny Tiger. (The band also have a song called Tiger By Your Side and tigers feature in their graphics.)
The singer now wants to blow the minds of young fans in the same way that pop stars did when he was growing up in the 1980s.
"We're so visual," he says. "We want to make something that as a child you see and you just love because it's so colourful and it's got imagination.
"Music is magic, and with imagination combined it can be completely epic. We've been both on the road doing shows for the last 10 years and we wanted something that's higher - visually, mentally, physically, a bigger level, a bigger vision that can last for ever."
Sound of 2009 countdown kicks off
The first act from the BBC's Sound of 2009 list has been revealed, with electro-pop duo La Roux at number five.
The list is intended to highlight the best new music talent for the new year.
It is based on tips from 134 leading UK tastemakers, who named their favourite three new acts. A longlist of 15 artists was published last month.
One act from the top five will now be revealed every day this week, until the number one is announced on Friday. Last year, Adele and Duffy topped the list.
The Sound of 2008 top five also included The Ting Tings, Glasvegas and Foals.
The list is intended to highlight the best new music talent for the new year.
It is based on tips from 134 leading UK tastemakers, who named their favourite three new acts. A longlist of 15 artists was published last month.
One act from the top five will now be revealed every day this week, until the number one is announced on Friday. Last year, Adele and Duffy topped the list.
The Sound of 2008 top five also included The Ting Tings, Glasvegas and Foals.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Spice girl scares soon to be mom Mel C
Former Spice Girl Melanie Chishholm also known as Mel C is nervous about giving birth to her first child after listening to the hospital horror stories that her bandmate Melanie Brown told her.
The British singer who is expecting her first child in February next year said in an interview to 'Reveal' magazine that she has heard terrible tales about having a baby from mum-of-two Melanie Brown also known as 'Scary Spice'.
However, the singer insists she has not been put off and the rest of her bandmates have offered her the support she needs.
She tells 'Reveal,' "The girls are really excited and supportive. I've seen quite a lot of them lately, except Victoria, obviously, because she's out in LA a lot. Mel B has been talking me through all the fine details of giving birth and has told me loads of horror stories. Well, she is Scary isn't she? So I suppose it's her job to scare me a bit."
Mel C is the last of the erstwhile all girls pop group 'Spice Girls' to become a mother. Melanie also revealed in the interview that her former bandmates have already started baby shopping
The British singer who is expecting her first child in February next year said in an interview to 'Reveal' magazine that she has heard terrible tales about having a baby from mum-of-two Melanie Brown also known as 'Scary Spice'.
However, the singer insists she has not been put off and the rest of her bandmates have offered her the support she needs.
She tells 'Reveal,' "The girls are really excited and supportive. I've seen quite a lot of them lately, except Victoria, obviously, because she's out in LA a lot. Mel B has been talking me through all the fine details of giving birth and has told me loads of horror stories. Well, she is Scary isn't she? So I suppose it's her job to scare me a bit."
Mel C is the last of the erstwhile all girls pop group 'Spice Girls' to become a mother. Melanie also revealed in the interview that her former bandmates have already started baby shopping
Britney's New Year's resolution - stop biting nails
Britney Spears has kept a rather nail-biting resolution for the New Year-the popstar wants to quit chewing her fingernails in 2009!
The 'Womanizer' singer wants to take better care of her hands starting New Year - because she longs for manicured and attractive hands.
And thus she is determined to quite her dirty habit as well as get rid of the reason behind it-not to worry anymore, reports.
"Next year, I have to learn to stop biting my nails! I would like to stop worrying so much, because I worry all the time. And to learn how to be happier, just in general. I have to learn to take things not so seriously," she said.
However, the pop superstar is not sure if she'd be able to stick to her promise, as she doesn't have a good history of keeping her resolutions.
"I end up breaking them. It's hard," she added.
The 'Womanizer' singer wants to take better care of her hands starting New Year - because she longs for manicured and attractive hands.
And thus she is determined to quite her dirty habit as well as get rid of the reason behind it-not to worry anymore, reports.
"Next year, I have to learn to stop biting my nails! I would like to stop worrying so much, because I worry all the time. And to learn how to be happier, just in general. I have to learn to take things not so seriously," she said.
However, the pop superstar is not sure if she'd be able to stick to her promise, as she doesn't have a good history of keeping her resolutions.
"I end up breaking them. It's hard," she added.
Madonna biggest 2008 N. American tour attraction
Madonna's "Sticky & Sweet" concert tour was the biggest-grossing music tour of 2008 in North America, raking in $105.3 million, concert tracking magazine Pollstar said on Monday.
The Material Girl, whose 58-show world tour finished in Brazil last week, was closely followed by another solo diva -- Canadian-born Celine Dion, who made $94 million in North America from her first tour since ending an almost five-year residency in Las Vegas a year ago.
Rock veterans The Eagles were third on Pollstar's list, grossing $73.4 million for their tour to support possibly their last studio album "Long Road out of Eden".
Country music star Kenny Chesney ($72.2 million) and rock band Bon Jovi ($70.4 million) came in fourth and fifth.
The Top 10 grossing tours of North America were rounded out by Bruce Springsteen and the E street band ($69.3 million), Neil Diamond ($59.8 million), Rascal Flatts ($55.8 million), The Police ($48.0 million) and veteran rocker Tina Turner ($47.7 million).
Pollstar's Top 10 list did not include global tour earnings for the year.
The Material Girl, whose 58-show world tour finished in Brazil last week, was closely followed by another solo diva -- Canadian-born Celine Dion, who made $94 million in North America from her first tour since ending an almost five-year residency in Las Vegas a year ago.
Rock veterans The Eagles were third on Pollstar's list, grossing $73.4 million for their tour to support possibly their last studio album "Long Road out of Eden".
Country music star Kenny Chesney ($72.2 million) and rock band Bon Jovi ($70.4 million) came in fourth and fifth.
The Top 10 grossing tours of North America were rounded out by Bruce Springsteen and the E street band ($69.3 million), Neil Diamond ($59.8 million), Rascal Flatts ($55.8 million), The Police ($48.0 million) and veteran rocker Tina Turner ($47.7 million).
Pollstar's Top 10 list did not include global tour earnings for the year.
Monday, December 22, 2008
US-ENTERTAINMENT Summary
Jim Carrey's new comedy "Yes Man" got the nod from moviegoers across North America, but brutal weather in key markets combined with holiday shopping distractions to hit overall ticket sales. According to studio estimates issued on Sunday, "Yes Man" earned $18.2 million during its first three days, winning a closely watched duel with the Will Smith drama "Seven Pounds." The decidedly downbeat film opened to a lightweight $16 million, Smith's worst performance in seven years.
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Film composers aren't exactly the most social creatures in Hollywood. But when five of this year's Oscar front-runners -- A.R. Rahman ("Slumdog Millionaire"), Howard Shore ("Doubt"), Danny Elfman ("Milk"), Alexandre Desplat ("The Curious Case of Benjamin Button") and Jan Kaczmarek ("The Visitor") -- sat down recently with The Hollywood Reporter, they seized the opportunity for a frank, passionate discussion of the past, present and future of film music.
Adam Sandler turns on charm in "Bedtime Stories"
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Has Adam Sandler been defanged? "Bedtime Stories" is his first family-friendly comedy, not to mention his first for Walt Disney Pictures. But if Sander can startle us in a dark, obsessive role like "Punch-Drunk Love," he can surprise us here, too. In a modern-day fairy tale about hopes, aspirations and family, Sander displays a winning form under the light and mischievous direction of Adam Shankman("Bringing Down the House").
Fifty years since "Greatest Game Ever Played"
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Fifty years ago the New York Giants and Baltimore Colts took the NFL title game to sudden death and launched pro football on a ride to the top of U.S. sports with what came to be known as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." The golden anniversary of that 23-17 upset win on December 28, 1958 by a Colts team led by young quarterback Johnny Unitas has inspired a passel of books this holiday season, a television retrospective and musings on how far football has come.
Ailing shows travel from TV land to limbo
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Most TV shows exit the airwaves with a flurry of headlines memorializing their demise. Sometimes, though, a program fades from the spotlight into a scheduling twilight zone: neither declared dead nor returning. Here's the lowdown on some missing-in-action titles from this year that most expected to see again but which have no airdates on the horizon:
White Zombie laid to rest on boxed set
DETROIT (Billboard) - Assembling the White Zombie boxed set "Let Sleeping Corpses Lie" was "weird" and somewhat bittersweet for Rob Zombie, the frontman for the defunct metal group that broke up in 1996. "The funny thing was when I was putting it together, it seemed so long ago," Zombie told Billboard.com. "It felt like I was putting together a box set of someone else's band. It just seemed like forever ago, and some of the early songs are, like, 20 years ago or something. It just seemed weird."
Quirky werewolf tale unleashed at Fox Broadcasting
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Talk about a hairy "Sex and the City." The Fox network has ordered a script for "Bitches," a comedy-drama about a quartet of female friends in New York who are werewolves.
Warner Music pulls videos from YouTube
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Warner Music Group ordered YouTube on Saturday to remove all music videos by its artists from the popular online video-sharing site after contract negotiations broke down. The order could affect hundreds of thousands of videos clips, as it covers Warner Music's recorded artists as well as the rights for songs published by its Warner/Chappell unit, which includes many artists not signed to Warner Music record labels.
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Film composers aren't exactly the most social creatures in Hollywood. But when five of this year's Oscar front-runners -- A.R. Rahman ("Slumdog Millionaire"), Howard Shore ("Doubt"), Danny Elfman ("Milk"), Alexandre Desplat ("The Curious Case of Benjamin Button") and Jan Kaczmarek ("The Visitor") -- sat down recently with The Hollywood Reporter, they seized the opportunity for a frank, passionate discussion of the past, present and future of film music.
Adam Sandler turns on charm in "Bedtime Stories"
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Has Adam Sandler been defanged? "Bedtime Stories" is his first family-friendly comedy, not to mention his first for Walt Disney Pictures. But if Sander can startle us in a dark, obsessive role like "Punch-Drunk Love," he can surprise us here, too. In a modern-day fairy tale about hopes, aspirations and family, Sander displays a winning form under the light and mischievous direction of Adam Shankman("Bringing Down the House").
Fifty years since "Greatest Game Ever Played"
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Fifty years ago the New York Giants and Baltimore Colts took the NFL title game to sudden death and launched pro football on a ride to the top of U.S. sports with what came to be known as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." The golden anniversary of that 23-17 upset win on December 28, 1958 by a Colts team led by young quarterback Johnny Unitas has inspired a passel of books this holiday season, a television retrospective and musings on how far football has come.
Ailing shows travel from TV land to limbo
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Most TV shows exit the airwaves with a flurry of headlines memorializing their demise. Sometimes, though, a program fades from the spotlight into a scheduling twilight zone: neither declared dead nor returning. Here's the lowdown on some missing-in-action titles from this year that most expected to see again but which have no airdates on the horizon:
White Zombie laid to rest on boxed set
DETROIT (Billboard) - Assembling the White Zombie boxed set "Let Sleeping Corpses Lie" was "weird" and somewhat bittersweet for Rob Zombie, the frontman for the defunct metal group that broke up in 1996. "The funny thing was when I was putting it together, it seemed so long ago," Zombie told Billboard.com. "It felt like I was putting together a box set of someone else's band. It just seemed like forever ago, and some of the early songs are, like, 20 years ago or something. It just seemed weird."
Quirky werewolf tale unleashed at Fox Broadcasting
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Talk about a hairy "Sex and the City." The Fox network has ordered a script for "Bitches," a comedy-drama about a quartet of female friends in New York who are werewolves.
Warner Music pulls videos from YouTube
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Warner Music Group ordered YouTube on Saturday to remove all music videos by its artists from the popular online video-sharing site after contract negotiations broke down. The order could affect hundreds of thousands of videos clips, as it covers Warner Music's recorded artists as well as the rights for songs published by its Warner/Chappell unit, which includes many artists not signed to Warner Music record labels.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
