abnervaught: July 2011

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Katy Perry, Adele And More 2011 VMA Nominees ... Possibly

Bigger Than the Sound tries to predict the nominees for this year's Video Music Awards.
By James Montgomery

Katy Perry
Photo: Amy Sussman/ Getty Images

I've been told that the nominations for the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards -- which air live Sunday, August 28, at 9 p.m. ET on MTV -- are going to be announced on MTV and MTV.com on Wednesday night (July 20) at 11 p.m ET, and that means you should probably get ready for a whole lot of Katy Perry. And Adele. And Britney Spears. And Lady Gaga. Oh, and Rihanna too.

That's because, to paraphrase Beyoncé (oh yeah, she'll probably get nominated too), it's been girls who've run the world in 2011, and the VMAs will probably be no exception. Perry — who has basically been unstoppable since last summer — figures to be the most nominated artist, with this year's breakout star, Adele, close behind. Britney, Gaga and all the rest figure to be in the hunt too. In fact, one has to wonder if the folks behind the show will just go ahead and eliminate the Best Male Video category altogether. More room for the ladies that way.

Of course, we won't know for sure until those nominations are officially revealed, but while we wait, I figured it was time to dust off the old Prognostication Cap and try to predict the 2011 VMA nominees in advance. I've done this for seemingly every awards show in the past, and sometimes I even manage to avoid embarrassing myself completely (not always, though).

So without any advance knowledge — and using as many sweeping generalizations as humanly possible — here are my picks for the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards. Accuracy not entirely guaranteed.

Best Male Video
In a year dominated by females, I suppose someone has to win Best Male Video. I think it's a given that Bruno Mars, Chris Brown and Eminem all land nods here, and I suspect Justin Bieber will sneak in too, if only because it builds off his Best New Artist win last year. The fifth spot is up for grabs, though in a pinch, I'll go with Pitbull, if only because of the recent success of "Give Me Everything." Lupe Fiasco or Trey Songz are also viable choices. My picks:

» Bruno Mars, "Grenade"
» Chris Brown, "She Ain't You"
» Eminem feat. Rihanna, "Love The Way You Lie"
» Justin Bieber, "U Smile"
» Pitbull, "Give Me Everything"

Best Female Video
Sure, Video of the Year is the night's biggest award, but given the success of every artist with a pair of X chromosomes, the Best Female Video might be the toughest — and not just to win. Predicting who even gets nominated is a challenge, considering there are only five spots available. Adele and Katy Perry seem mortal locks, and Rihanna is close. Britney will probably earn a nom too, which means that either Beyoncé, Lady Gaga or Nicki Minaj will be left on the outside looking in. Told you this was going to be tough. My picks:

» Adele, "Rolling in the Deep"
» Britney Spears, "Hold It Against Me"
» Beyoncé, "Run the World (Girls)"
» Katy Perry, "E.T."
» Rihanna, "S&M"

Best Rock Video
My official title at MTV News is "rock editor," but even I had a hard time coming up with five nominees here. Since 30 Seconds to Mars won last year, I suspect they'll be back to defend their crown. Folks were excited about the Foo Fighters' return, so pencil them in too. Mumford & Sons may very well be the year's most unexpected success, which should earn them a nod. The other two slots? I'm not gonna lie, I just picked names out of a hat.

» 30 Seconds to Mars, "Hurricane"
» Foo Fighters, "Rope"
» Foster the People, "Pumped Up Kicks"
» Linkin Park, "Waiting for the End"
» Mumford & Sons, "Little Lion Man"

Best Hip-Hop Video
A wide-open category, and one that raises several questions: Can Eminem win for the second year in a row? Will Nicki Minaj manage to bum-rush the boys' club? Is Kanye West's epic "Runaway" mini-movie even eligible? I'm not going to pretend to know all the answers, but it certainly makes for an interesting field. In the end, I left Em off — since "Love the Way You Lie" was released in such a nebulous time (August 2010, a month before last year's VMAs and a full 12 months before this year's) — and went with the Beastie Boys, since I have a creeping suspicion they'll earn a nod or two, and this seems as logical a place as any. Nicki and Kanye are in (though I went with the latter's "Monster" video), and so is Lil Wayne. For the last spot, I went with Lupe Fiasco, though it wouldn't surprise me to see Tyler, the Creator here instead.

» Beastie Boys, "Make Some Noise"
» Kanye West (featuring Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Bon Iver and Nicki Minaj), "Monster"
» Lil Wayne (featuring Cory Gunz), "6 Foot 7 Foot"
» Lupe Fiasco, "The Show Goes On"
» Nicki Minaj, "Super Bass"

Best Pop Video
Another big-time category, another bunch of deserving artists destined to be left out. I like Britney's, Katy's and Gaga's chances, and I'll toss Rihanna into the mix too. For the fifth spot, I went with Bruno Mars, since, otherwise, this category would basically just be Best Female Video, Part II. Of course, in doing that, I excluded Adele, Beyoncé, Ke$ha and about a dozen other worthy acts too. Prognostication is hard work, people.

» Britney Spears, "Hold It Against Me"
» Bruno Mars, "Grenade"
» Katy Perry, "E.T."
» Lady Gaga, "Born This Way"
» Rihanna, "S&M"

Best New Artist
Who will follow in the footsteps of Biebus Christ (and Lady Gaga) and take home the Moonman for Best New Artist? Good question! This is always one of the hardest categories to predict, and this year is no different: The only sure things seem to be Mumford & Sons and Wiz Khalifa, and though Robyn isn't exactly new, she's new enough here (and made some terrific strides over the past 12 months), so I think she's a lock. In a pinch, I'll pick Foster the People (big radio hit) and Tyler, the Creator (big buzz), though Kreayshawn could sneak in too.

» Foster the People
» Mumford & Sons
» Robyn
» Tyler, the Creator
» Wiz Khalifa

Video of the Year
Last year's Video of the Year race featured a trio of underdogs — 30 Seconds to Mars, B.o.B, Florence and the Machine — thrown into the mix. Will 2011 follow suit? Probably not. Adele seems to be a no-brainer, even if most folks have never seen the video for "Rolling in the Deep." Katy, too, but it remains to be seen which of her videos gets the nod. (I went with "Firework." It's mad inspirational.) Em will be back — though one has to wonder if "Love the Way You Lie" peaked too early to be considered a genuine front-runner — and Gaga should return also. I went dark-horse with my fifth pick, taking the Foo Fighters' "Rope" over bigger clips from Beyoncé and Rihanna, mostly because I've got a sweet spot for VHS.

» Adele, "Rolling in the Deep"
» Eminem (featuring Rihanna), "Love the Way You Lie"
» Foo Fighters, "Rope"
» Katy Perry, "Firework"
» Lady Gaga, "Born This Way"

Did we get it right? Share your picks in the comments!

Diane Kruger Dido Diora Baird Dita Von Teese

Britney Spears - Piece of Me

Piece of Me

Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive/Zomba Label Group
Director: Wayne Isham
Album: Blackout

Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=501686&vid=195543

Gina Gershon Gina Philips Gisele Bündchen Giuliana DePandi

Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber To Attend Teen Choice Awards

Show, airing live on Fox on August 7, will be hosted by 'Big Bang Theory' star Kaley Cuoco.
By Jocelyn Vena

Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez
Photo: Getty Images

The Teen Choice Awards have found their host. "Big Bang Theory" star Kaley Cuoco has been tapped to MC the big night, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Cuoco herself is up for Choice TV Actress: Comedy. Her show is up for Choice TV Show: Comedy and her co-star, Jim Parsons, is up for Choice TV Actor: Comedy.

Keeping the girl-power theme going, five-time nominee Selena Gomez has been slated to perform on the show along with her band, the Scene. Jason Derülo has also been billed as one of the performers for the show, which airs live from Los Angeles on August 7 on Fox.

Gomez's boy, Justin Bieber (who is up for five surfboards at the show), will be in attendance, as will Cameron Diaz, Chris Hemsworth, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Victoria Justice, Ed Helms, Lucy Hale, Shaun White, Rose Byrne, Paul Wesley, "Harry Potter" star Tom Felton, Kat Graham, Christopher Mintz-Plasse and Shane West.

In addition to the already announced set of Teen Choice Awards nominees, which were released in two batches in June and again earlier this month, the nominees for the final category of Choice Vampire have also been announced. "Vampire Diaries" stars Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley face off against "Twilight" stars Robert Pattinson and Nikki Reed as well as the only nominee from "True Blood," Alexander Skarsgård.

"The Twilight Saga: Eclipse" is the big nominee at the show with 12 nods, including Choice Movie: Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Choice Movie Actor: Sci-Fi/Fantasy for both Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner and Choice Movie Actress: Sci-Fi/Fantasy for Kristen Stewart.

For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

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Michael Jackson - Gone Too Soon

Gone Too Soon

Artist: Michael Jackson
Label: Epic
Director: Bill Dicicco
Album: Dangerous

Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1102&vid=208381

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Photos | Buddy Movies Justin Bieber And Ashton Kutcher Should Remake

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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.

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Saturday, July 30, 2011

'Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes' Stars Give Apes Top Billing

Tom Felton, James Franco and other castmembers say come for the apes, stay for the story ... or just the apes.
By Kara Warner

Freida Pinto and James Franco at the "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" premiere
Photo: Frazer Harrison/ Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD — There is enough intrigue, presumed destruction and primate shenanigans in the trailers for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" to entice more than just the fans of the 1968 original into theaters when the film opens next week. But when MTV News caught up with the principal castmembers at the Hollywood premiere on Thursday, we asked them to sell us on a few more of the film's must-see elements, aside from their furry co-stars. Basically, if people come to see the apes, what will make them stay?

"Wow, James [Franco], Freida [Pinto], Andy [Serkis], everyone else," Tom Felton said, speaking to his co-stars' appeal. "There is a mixture of CGI and special effects that we've never seen onscreen before, along with a strong story and a strong message: Humans can't play God too much. We should not overstep our boundaries when it comes to manipulating Mother Nature."

Pinto countered that it's all about the apes. "I think this is one of few films that really give them a voice as well," she said. "Of course, 'Planet of the Apes' did as well, but 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes' gives them a voice in a very revolutionary way."

One of the prominent primate voices heard is that of Caesar, played by seasoned motion-capture performer Andy Serkis, who, according to Franco, is the main reason why the film is any good.

"The apes, I think Andy Serkis and WETA should get top billing," Franco said. "They stole the show; they're incredible."

Actor John Lithgow, who plays the father of Franco's character, was the only one who thought folks will start out loving the apes and leave loving the humans.

"They [will] stay for the people, and the extent to which the apes become people," he said. "It's a story, it's a great story, that's why they stay."

Check out everything we've got on "Rise of the Planet of the Apes."

For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1668137/planet-of-the-apes-rise-premiere.jhtml

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Photos | Ke$ha, Chris Brown Heat Up The Us Hot Hollywood Party

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/photos/?fid=1652662

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Les News, 073011

The Hobbit in 2 minutes. Selena Gomez shows off her bikini body. THIS 1995 MTV report on “the Internet” is hilariously embarrassing. Disney Princesses + Tattoos = THIS Apple has more cash than the US government. Dianna Agron does Flaunt magazine. Maroon 5 get remixed. Louis Vuitton is ready for Fall/Winter 2011/2012. Adam Lambert busts [...]

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/pinkisthenewblog/~3/QqQFZjt-ad8/

Eve Fergie Foxy Brown Freida Pinto

Britney Spears - Till the World Ends

Till the World Ends

Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive
Director: Ray Kay
Album: Femme Fatale [Deluxe Edition]

Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=501686&vid=639722

Carla Gugino Carmen Electra Carol Grow Carrie Underwood

Photos | Lady Gaga Joins Her Little Monsters At Best Buy Signing

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'Smurfs' Cast: What If They Were Three Apples High?

FROM MTV MOVIES: "The Smurfs" are three apples high, as the legend goes, and in this week's big-screen adaptation of the beloved children's cartoon, Hollywood takes a stab at re-telling the tale for a new generation of kids.
The 3-D tale (with some CGI) is voiced by an A-list cast, including VMA-nominated Katy Perry, George Lopez [...]

Source: http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2011/07/29/smurfs-cast-interview/

Alecia Elliott Alessandra Ambrosio Alexis Bledel Ali Campoverdi

Friday, July 29, 2011

Justin Bieber's Grammy Performance Will Be 'A Crossover,' Usher Says

The 'O.M.G.' singer looks forward to sharing the stage with his protégé on Sunday night.
By James Montgomery

Usher
Photo: Amanda Edwards/ Getty Images

HOLLYWOOD — At Sunday's 53rd Grammy Awards, Usher will be pulling double duty as both a nominee and a performer. Of course, given the massive year he just completed — with the success of his smash single "O.M.G." and as a mentor to rising phenom Justin Bieber — Ush's Grammy plans seem rather fitting.

Especially since he'll be performing with Bieber (and Bieber's pal Jaden Smith), a move that's just as much about celebrating Usher's successes as it is the successes of his young protégé.

"Having been through [the Grammys] so many times, you couldn't want for anything more than for your young protégé to have the opportunity to have one, so, in support of him having his moment, I wanted to be here," Usher told MTV News on Thursday, hours before his performance at the (Belvedere) RED launch party in Hollywood. "And also to be there to perform, to kind of tell the story of how we came together. This music business has definitely been good to both of us, and this year we have a lot to be happy for."

And just how will the dynamic duo tell that story? Well, Usher wasn't about to reveal all the details, but he did say that he's hoping their performance will show another side of Bieber ... a side most tend to overlook.

"The performance will be fun," Usher explained. "We want to get up there and just do what we do. Be comfortable, and have a great time. ... This is kind of a crossover for Justin. Having performed on so many different stages, this is the way that I wanted him to be seen and an opportunity to show the industry — a lot of the industry, that didn't believe [in him] — some of his other talents. He's going to play acoustically, and also, we'll get down a little bit."

And though Ush is up for a pair of Grammy awards on Sunday — Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and Best Contemporary R&B Album for Raymond v. Raymond — he's most looking forward to sharing the stage with Bieber and giving fans a look at where the young artist will be heading next.

"I'm very proud, man. I definitely saw it from the beginning, but thanks to the team that we have around us, it was made to happen. And that story has only just begun," Usher said. "The story of Justin Bieber doesn't stop with screaming girls; we need screaming fans all around the world ... a cultural experience that's much more than just fanfare. And that's what this is. That's what the Grammys will be; that's what my next phase for Justin is. This is the way I found him: I found him with a guitar in his hand, so I want him to be seen that way."

Don't miss "Snooki & Sway: Live From the Grammys," a red-carpet live stream kicking off Sunday at 6 p.m. ET on MTV.com. And stick with us all Grammy night for coverage of the red carpet, the show, the afterparties and beyond!

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Beyonce Shares Her Love For Frank Ocean, Kanye West

B shares how Jay-Z and his collaborators influenced her chart-topping 4.
By Jocelyn Vena

Beyoncé in <i>Complex</i> magazine
Photo: Thierry Le Gouès/ Complex

Beyoncé has said that she was "inspired by every type of genre" of music while making 4. But in a recent interview, she spoke in detail about how husband Jay-Z and other hip-hop artists became sonic touchstones while she recorded her fourth solo album.

"Jay had a CD playing in the car one Sunday when we were driving to Brooklyn," she tells Complex about hearing Odd Future's Frank Ocean, who co-wrote the 4 track "I Miss You." "I noticed his tone, his arrangements, and his storytelling. I immediately reached out to him — literally the next morning. I asked him to fly to New York and work on my record."

She also chose to work with Kanye West (who eventually produced "Party") after she heard "Runaway," which she admits, made her cry. "The fact that he's belting out his pain, his confusion, and his anger, with no pre-written lyrics, was so moving," she explained of her husband's frequent collaborator. "He's singing his heart out for five minutes. He is so vulnerable. I love when an artist can be so honest."

Of course, B acknowledged the direct influence of Jay's own work too. "Jay's music is more than music. His lyrics have fathered generations," she told the magazine. "All that he has overcome gives millions so much hope. There are moments when I see his lips moving, and I can see lyrics floating above his head, and I think, 'Wow! How did I get so lucky to be able to witness this level of genius so closely?' "

Beyoncé released her album in a season dominated by strong female voices, but she doesn't want any part in conversations that pit her against other divas.

"There is room on this earth for many queens," she said. "I have an authentic, God-given talent, drive and longevity that will always separate me from everyone else. I've been fortunate to accomplish things that the younger generation of queens dream of accomplishing. I have no desire for anyone else's throne. I am very comfortable in the throne I've been building for the past 15 years.

"I just want my legacy to be great music," she later added. "Someone who was a risk taker and someone who had songs that struck conversation and emotion."

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Amy Winehouse's Dad Gives Her Clothes To Fans

Friends and family gathered at Amy's favorite jazz club on Thursday night.
By Gil Kaufman

Amy Winehouse
Photo: Carlos Alvarez/ Getty Images

Amy Winehouse's father, Mitch, made another trip to the late singer's Camden, England, apartment this week, where fans have kept vigil since the news broke on Saturday that the "Rehab" singer had passed away at age 27.

After greeting those supporters on Monday and thanking them for their kind words and offerings to his troubled daughter's memory, Mitch, along with Amy's mother, Janis, brother Alex and boyfriend Reg Traviss, came by on Thursday to remove some of the singer's private effects from her apartment.

Read what experts say about the negative effects of the type of instant fame Winehouse received.

Mitch surprised some of those gathered outside by handing out a few of Amy's clothes and accessories, including several tank tops, sunglasses and other trinkets, according to The Sun. "There are Amy's T-shirts. This is what she would have wanted — for her fans to have her clothes," he told the stunned fans, as he walked away with a pair of Winehouse's signature ballet shoes in his back pocket. "God bless Amy Winehouse," he said before hopping into a taxi.

The family also carted off some other possessions, including Amy's guitars and her lyric books.

We explore what Winehouse's musical legacy will be, beyond "Rehab."

Some of Winehouse's pals and family got together to celebrate her life at her favorite jazz club on Thursday night. Her divorced parents were joined by Traviss and friends that included Kelly Osbourne and Eliza Doolittle at the Jazz After Dark club in London's Soho district. Also on hand was producer Mark Ronson, who paid tribute to his muse during a concert the night before, when he performed a selection of Amy's songs.

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1668139/amy-winehouse-dad-clothes.jhtml

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Photos | Lady Gaga's 'Judas' Video: Decoded

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Mixtape Daily: Rico Love, Gunplay

The platinum songwriter and producer talks about his work with Kelly Rowland and Good friend Usher.

Photo: Triple C's

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Thursday, July 28, 2011

Katy Perry Closing In On Michael Jackson's #1 Singles Record

If 'Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)' tops Hot 100, Perry's Teenage Dream will tie MJ's mark of five #1s from a single album.
By James Montgomery

Katy Perry
Photo: John Parra/ WireImage

Katy Perry's unstoppable Teenage Dream album continues to churn out hits ... and now, it might just make history too.

If Dream's fifth single, the just-released "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)", continues its climb to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 (it currently sits at #4, jumping 27 spots from last week), Perry will not only become the first female artist to ever have five #1 songs off one album, she'll be the first artist of any gender to accomplish the feat since Michael Jackson had five chart-topping singles off his Bad album in 1987 and 1988.

Perry's previous #1s from the Dream album are, of course, "California Gurls," "Teenage Dream," "Firework" and "E.T." Jackson's five #1s from the Bad album are "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," "Bad," "The Way You Make Me Feel," "Man in the Mirror" and "Dirty Diana."

Perry has already shattered the Hot 100 record for most consecutive weeks with a single inside the Top 10 (48, a number previously held by Swedish popmeisters Ace of Base), then kept that momentum going by spending an entire year in the chart's upper echelon. More incredibly, that streak is still active, as two of Perry's singles — "T.G.I.F." and "E.T." — sit at numbers 4 and 5, respectively.

What's more, "T.G.I.F" currently sits atop the Billboard Digital Songs chart, and may soon be her sixth single to pass the 4 million mark in digital sales, joining "E.T.," "California Gurls," "Firework," and from her One of the Boys album, "Hot N Cold" and "I Kissed a Girl." No other artist has even had four songs pass the 4 million download mark ... Perry's closest competitors in that regard are Lady Gaga and Rihanna, both of whom have had three 4 million-sellers.

What do you think of Katy Perry's chart streak? Sound off in the comments!

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Justin Bieber's Next Big Adventure: Pee-wee Herman's Movie?

Pee-wee makes a plea from Comic-Con for singer to cameo in his Judd Apatow-produced film.
By Terri Schwartz, with reporting by Eric Ditzian

Justin Bieber
Photo: Jamie McCarthy/ Getty Images

SAN DIEGO — Beliebers are in luck, because Justin Bieber might be heading to the big screen once again soon, if Pee-wee Herman has his way.

Turns out Herman, who has been working on a new film alongside producer Judd Apatow, has recently written the VMA nominee in as one of the celebrity cameos. The only problem? Bieber doesn't know yet.

"I can't really tell [what the cameo is], but he makes an appearance toward the end of the film," Herman (actor Paul Reubens, but we definitely interviewed Pee-wee) told MTV News at San Diego Comic-Con. "He doesn't know about it yet, so if you're watching this, Justin!"

That's not the only grade-A cameo Herman has written into the script. He has his eyes on lots of stars — and the White House.

"There's a party scene in the film that I think will have a lot of the stars. We just wrote President Obama into them. We have an offer out to him," Herman unveiled. Will any other government officials be given a role in the movie? "Sarah Palin wasn't asked. I have to draw the line somewhere, and unfortunately that's where it was drawn. I'm sorry, Sarah, I'm sorry," he whispered.

The script for the currently unnamed comedy is being looked at by Universal Studios at the moment, and Herman said he hoped filming could begin within the next couple of months. It only helps that he has Apatow in his court and that the director/producer has words of wisdom to pass on to Herman to make the best comedy he can.

"He's given us the same advice over and over again, which is 'emotional arc,' " Herman explained. "He wants the character to go through an emotional arc and to come out on the other end arced. So that's what we're doing. We're adding an emotional arc. Emotional growth, so there's a change in Pee-wee Herman during this film. Pee-wee makes a change."

For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1667789/justin-bieber-pee-wee-herman.jhtml

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It's a Royal Affair...

... in Brooklyn!

Bev has decided to wear an asymmetrical fascinator to celebrate Kate and Wills' big day, while Mary opted for a hat with a little tropical flavor.

Cheerio!

(By the way, this wasn't an easy photo to get:)

Source: http://www.prettyinthecity.com/blog/2011/4/29/its-a-royal-affair.html

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'Madden NFL 12': Rosters, Stats Updated, But Not Rules

Now that NFL lockout has ended, EA 'able to flip the switch on roster updates pretty easily,' rep says.
By Russ Frushtick

Madden NFL 12
Photo: EA Sports

What would the world be like without football? Thankfully, fans needn't concern themselves with such a horrible scenario (at least for another 10 years), as NFL owners and the NFL Players Association came to an agreement to end a months-long standoff that might have canceled the 2011-2012 season. Because the lockout ended early enough, there will be no impact on the season itself, but what about this year's installment of "Madden"?

"Madden NFL 12" is scheduled to be released in about a month, but video games are often finalized months before they hit store shelves. Does that mean anyone who buys "Madden" will be playing with out-of-date rosters from before the lockout was even settled?

Anthony Stevenson, the director of marketing for "Madden NFL 12," discussed how the development team is planning to keep everything up-to-date for fans. "From the game's standpoint, what everyone wants to know is rosters," he said. "You're taking what historically would be five months of offseason activity and you're condensing it into what would be as little as two to three weeks. So, there are going to be a lot of roster moves. And these aren't inconsequential moves: There's Donovan McNabb, Kevin Kolb; these are moves that could shape a division. But we're fortunate that we're able to flip the switch on roster updates pretty easily."

Mike Young, the game's creative director, confirmed that the rosters would be up-to-date not only at the beginning of the season, but also straight on through to the Super Bowl. "Our ratings people and our roster guys are going to be really, really busy," he said. "Day one, anybody with an online connection is going to have all these moves and up-to-date rosters. All season long, we'll support that really well."

Young confirmed that while the rosters and player stats will be up-to-date, EA won't be able to implement all of the just-agreed-upon rules. "Some of the new rules we will not get in the game this year. Unfortunately, [the end of the lockout] happened too late," he explained. "It's kind of a complicated system to change with something like a patch."

As for which new rules didn't make the cut, Young revealed, "The rookie cap stuff, a lot of the business part of football. So your Franchise mode will be using last year's rules for another year. That was the only disappointment. But, as far as rosters, I think we're the best at having those up-to-date."

Those roster updates will require an Internet connection for your console. If you don't have your console hooked up to the Internet, Young suggested taking advantage of nearby gamers. "Take it over to your friend's house, plug it in," he recommended. "There are a lot of free trials for Xbox Live and PSN [PlayStation Network] is free. Update your game, save it to your hard drive, and bring it home. You need the rosters!"

Certainly, fans who are just thrilled to have an NFL season will consider updated rosters the cherry on top.

Check out the Multiplayer blog, updated daily, for even more on "Madden NFL 12" and other gaming coverage.

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1668056/ea-sports-nfl-madden-12-lockout.jhtml

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Photos | 2011 Billboard Music Awards

2011 Billboard Music Awards

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Mixtape Daily: Rico Love, Gunplay

The platinum songwriter and producer talks about his work with Kelly Rowland and Good friend Usher.

Photo: Triple C's

Brooke Burns Busy Philipps Cameron Diaz Cameron Richardson

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Photos | MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Zombie Pop Stars

MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Zombie Pop Stars

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Britney Spears - Hold It Against Me

Hold It Against Me

Artist: Britney Spears
Label: Jive, Zomba Label Group
Director: Jonas Akerlund

Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=501686&vid=624145

Genelle Frenoy Georgianna Robertson Georgina Grenville Gina Carano

Robert Plant And Alison Krauss Win Grammy Album Of The Year

Raising Sand, from Led Zeppelin vet and bluegrass superstar, wins five Grammys on Sunday night.
By James Montgomery with MTV News staff

Alison Krauss and Robert Plant accept the award for Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards on Sunday
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images

"I'm bewildered," Robert Plant said onstage as he accepted the Grammy Album of the Year award with Alison Krauss on Sunday night. "In the old days we would have called this selling out, but it's a good way to spend a Sunday."

He was probably one of the few who were surprised, because Raising Sand, which won five trophies at Sunday night's show, is in many ways the perfect Grammy album. It features two respected veterans, a critically lauded producer, some sandpaper-and-velvet vocals and a baker's dozen of time-tested standards.

You're probably familiar with Robert Plant from his Led Zeppelin days, and you might be aware of producer T-Bone Burnett's work on the "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack (it won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2002). And if you don't know who Alison Krauss is, she possesses a haunting set of pipes and is one of the meanest fiddle players in the world. Oh, and she's won 21 Grammys, more than any other female artist and the seventh-most in history.

Really, she's the key to Sand's success, and not just because of her voice (or her fiddle playing). She and Plant first met in 2004, at a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame tribute to legendary bluesman Leadbelly, and the former Zeppelin man was amazed by her knowledge of American Roots music — so much so that they began kicking around the idea of recording an album together. Three years later, Sand was released.

And while Plant possesses the more famous voice, the album's finest moments radiate from Krauss. Whether she's getting bluesy on Little Milton's "Let Your Loss Be Your Lesson" or entwining with Plant's husky voice on songs like "Please Read the Letter" and Roly Salley's winsome "Killing the Blues," she more than carries her end of the bargain.

And perhaps that's also due to producer Burnett, who handpicked the 13 songs the duo cover on Sand. His arrangements are sparse — giving the two voices ample room to breathe — yet dense, warm and crackling at the same time. It's a testament to his work that he's often given just as much billing as Plant and Krauss on the project ... and it's certainly justified.

To date, Sand has sold more than 1 million copies, heaped tons of acclaim and actually earned a Grammy last year — "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" took home the award for Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals.

One expert was surprised not by the album's success, but by the fact that it's actually quite a good album.

"At first, the album seemed like a vanity project. ... Two names, clearly a one-off record, didn't have to be any good, you know?" New York Times music critic Jon Caramanica said. "Led Zeppelin fans would buy it because of Robert Plant, Alison Krauss would get a check. But it actually turned out to be a really thoughtful, really good record. So when you combine all that with the fact that the Grammys love to lionize one of their own, I could really see it taking home some awards."

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LC's Moving On With A Teen Wolf Hottie!

Good for her! She's seeing what else is out there!
Lauren Conrad has finally started moving on from her breakup with Kyle Howard. The former Hills star was spotted out with another MTV star, Colton Haynes of Teen Wolf at the HTC Status phone launch on July 20. The pair were spotted sitting at the same [...]

Source: http://perezhilton.com/2011-07-27-lauren-conrad-colton-haynes-teen-wolf-party-hooking-up

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Michael Jackson's 'Thriller': Story Behind The 'Glee' Cover

MJ classic is mashed up with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' 'Heads Will Roll' for post-Super Bowl episode.
By Aly Semigran

"Glee"
Photo: FOX

Madonna, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and now, finally, Michael Jackson. The cast of "Glee" has covered plenty of icons during their first two seasons, but it's taken 33 episodes to get around to the King of Pop.

With a huge catalog of Jackson songs, the singing, dancing students of McKinley High paid homage to the late singer with one of his biggest staples (and, arguably, the greatest music video of all time) with their take on "Thriller."

The groundbreaking single from Jackson's best-selling album of the same name was mashed up with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' "Heads Will Roll" for the post-Super Bowl episode (titled "The Sue Sylvester Bowl Shuffle"), featuring a zombie-fied "Glee" cast.

Bound to become a smash all over again (though with its nonstop rotation at Halloween parties and wedding receptions until the end of time, it's never truly gone away), here's a brief history of the dance/pop classic.

Released on January 23, 1984, "Thriller" was the seventh, and final, single to be released from Jackson's smash record. According to the RIAA, the album (released by Epic Records) has gone gold 29 times, narrowly edging out the Eagles' Greatest Hits 1971-1975 for the title of best-selling album of all time.

In 2009, MTV News estimated that the Thriller album was poised to go triple diamond, meaning 30 million records sold in the U.S. alone.

After Thriller's other singles (including "Billie Jean," "Beat It" and "Wanna Be Startin' Something") dominated the charts, it was time for the spooky, undeniably original track to take over. The song "Thriller" also appeared on many of Jackson's other albums, including the compilations HIStory and Number Ones.

Clocking in at a little under six minutes (though the radio edit was closer to four-and-a-half), the song features pop-music mainstays like synthesizers but shakes things up with its spooky sound effects, including creaking floors, howling and thunder.

The song was produced by Quincy Jones and written and composed by Rod Tempterton and spent 14 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #4.

But it's the music video for "Thriller" that truly made it the phenomenon it was in the '80s and continues to be today. Less a music video than a mini-motion picture, the video (over 13 minutes long and directed by John Landis) won three MTV Video Music Awards and has been named the best music video of all time by many outlets, including VH1 for the special "VH1: 100 Greatest Videos."

The chiller features Jackson in that iconic red leather jacket on a date with his girlfriend (played by Ola Ray) before things go terribly awry. After all, as Jackson (whose disclaimer at the start of the video reads, "This film in no way endorses a belief in the occult") sings in the opening line, "It's close to midnight and something evil's lurking in the dark." Cue werewolves, zombies, Vincent Price's soliloquy and one of the most memorable dance sequences ever.

The video was (no pun intended) a monster hit. As the Los Angeles Times notes, "At the height of the song's popularity, MTV would run the 14-minute 'Thriller' video twice an hour."

Choreographed by Jackson and Michael Peters (who, as the LA Times also reported, appears in the video as one of the zombies) and with makeup by Oscar-winner Rick Baker (also an undead "Thriller" extra) was made with a huge budget of an estimated $500,000.

Still, the efforts paid off. Landis (who told the "Today" show back in 2009 that no one wanted to give them the funds to make the risky vid) made the accompanying 45-minute documentary about the venture, called "The Making of Thriller." Featuring the behind-the-scenes wizardry, as well as the music video in full, it would go on to move more than 10 million copies.

Since then, the signature song and video have seen their share fair of tributes in movies (notably in the 2004 comedy"13 Going on 30") and TV ("South Park," "Family Guy," "30 Rock," among others), not to mention the countless flash mobs that have gone viral. (Remember the prisoners in the Philippines who became overnight phenomenons on YouTube?)

Even with the "Glee" number, this likely won't be the last incarnation of "Thriller." Billboard reported in October that a "Thriller" film is in the works. With a plot allegedly revolving around Price's narration, Kenny Ortega, who directed Jackson's last effort, "This Is It," will reportedly helm the project.

Since Jackson's untimely passing on June 25, 2009, the song and video's legacy continue to live on. In the week following Jackson's death, "Thriller" was the best-selling track in the U.S., with sales of 167,000 copies on the Billboard Hot Digital Singles chart.

Then, in December 2009, "Thriller" was the first music video to ever be inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. It seems "no mere mortal can resist ... the thriller" after all.

What did you think of the "Thriller" mash-up on "Glee"? Let us know in the comments!

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Justin Bieber Joins Selena Gomez Onstage

'Had a #greatnight and surprised the people,' Bieber tweeted after California show.
By Jocelyn Vena

Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez (file)
Photo: Getty Images

Selena Gomez played a show on Sunday night at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California. And mid-concert, her fans got a big surprise as Gomez's beau, Justin Bieber, took the stage.

Video posted on Celebuzz.com shows Bieber giving his lady love a big hug before launching into an acoustic version of Justin Timberlake's classic breakup ode, "Cry Me a River." He also reportedly sang "Favorite Girl."

Bieber even took to Twitter to tell Gomez that he thought she did a great job onstage. "Had a #greatnight and surprised the people. felt good to be on stage. nothing is changing that. #REAL," he wrote. "@selenagomez u did great tonight. proud of u."

Bieber, who recently revealed that he was taking a bit of a summer break, also added that as nice as it was to be onstage again, he is even more enthusiastic about the new album he's working on. "More excited than ever to get back in the studio and make this #newalbum," he wrote. "Miss the tour and want to give u all new music. #BELIEVE I do this because i love music. #REAL."

Earlier in the weekend, and offered a big "thank you" to her fans on Twitter. "HappyBirthdaySelena is a trending topic," she wrote. "Thank you all so much for a great birthday. Thank you to everyone who sent birthday wishes, I love you all."

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Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Photos | MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Pop Star Brides

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Ke$ha - Take It Off

Take It Off

Artist: Ke$ha
Label: RCA
Director: Paul Hunter, Dori Oskowitz

Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=3213641&vid=549666

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Photos | 2011 Pre-Grammy Celebrations

2011 Pre-Grammy Celebrations

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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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Ke$ha Is Channeling 'Sexiness' Of '70s Rock For New Album

Glitter-heavy pop star tells MTV News she's going for 'balls-out, irreverent rock and roll.'
By James Montgomery, with reporting by Matt Elias

Ke$ha
Photo: MTV News

Ke$ha's already got the face paint down pat, and, during recent live sets, she's even taken to guzzling blood out of a human heart, so it should come as no surprise that, on her upcoming album, the pop star is taking things back to the most theatrical era of rock: the prop-heavy, arena-spanning heyday of the 1970s.

Ke$h revealed her plans over the weekend in Los Angeles, on the red carpet of KIIS FM's annual Wango Tango concert, where she told MTV News that the follow-up to her breakout Animal album (and, we suppose, Cannibal too) would be heavy on hard riffs and light on pretty much everything else.

"The next album ... I've been working on writing on the road, but as far as a sound, I just know it's gonna be balls-out, irreverent rock and roll," she said. "I've been pretty much in this '70s rock and roll kick and I just want to capture some of the true essence of what rock and roll is, and that's just irreverence and sexiness and fun and not giving a f---, so we'll definitely put a bit of rock and roll in it."

So, does that mean that fans can expect the likes of Alice Cooper or Peter Frampton to show up on her new album? Perhaps. Because while Ke$ha's new album is still a ways off, she's already begun calling in favors, hoping to line up a killer collabo for the new disc.

"I'm trying, trust me," she laughed. "I really would love to connect with one of my idols, I mean, that's my dream. I'm working on it."

What do you think of Ke$ha going rock for her next album? Tell us in the comments!

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1663946/kesha-new-album.jhtml

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I Told You So

In case I wasn't clear in my video... more proof that cab drivers don't like to go to Brooklyn.

Source: http://www.prettyinthecity.com/blog/2011/4/21/i-told-you-so.html

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Monday, July 25, 2011

Usher - Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)

Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)

Artist: Usher
Label: JLG
Director: Chris Robinson
Album: Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home)

Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1270&vid=476362

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Rihanna Tops Lady Gaga In Facebook Fans

Rihanna has around 40,000 more admirers than Gaga on the social-networking site.
By Gil Kaufman

Rihanna
Photo: Vallery Jean/ FilmMagic

We talk a lot around here about all the records Lady Gaga is breaking, but as of Friday (July 15), there was one title that even Gaga's ferocious Little Monsters couldn't help her win: Queen of Facebook.

Though Mother Monster has an impressive 40,575,791 Facebook fans at press time, she was just pushed down to #2 in the bid to be the most popular woman on Facebook by Rihanna, who slipped into the lead with 40,616,457 fans, or around 40,000 more Facebook admirers than Gaga.

The passing of the torch was noted by Facebook's marketing director Randi Zuckerberg, who tweeted on Thursday, "Sorry, Gaga! As of today, Rihanna has passed Lady Gaga as the #1 most popular woman on Facebook."

Of course Gaga still rules the roost on Twitter (with 11.6 million followers, she bests Rihanna, who is down at #13 in Twitter followers), where she was the first person to surpass the 10 million mark. And that's just one of the many records she's smashed on her way to the top.

She can also breathe easier now that her personal YouTube channel has been restored after going offline earlier this week thanks to a copyright-violation issues.

A YouTube spokesperson told MTV News that the takedown order was given after Gaga had accumulated an unspecified amount of copyright claims, which results in an automatic suspension of an account. The clip that appeared to trigger the suspension involved unauthorized posting of a recent performance from Japan involving the popular boy band SMAP, who appeared in a medley of Gaga tunes on a TV broadcast.

Do you "like" Rihanna or Gaga on Facebook? Let us know in the comments!

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No hay más Led Zeppelin

A pesar de lo dicho ayer, Peter Mensch, manager del guitarrista Jimmy Page, se retractó totalmente en eso que la banda buscaría un reemplazo al ultragenial Robert Plant para seguir rockeando y toureándola por el mundo tras su show de 2007 en el O2 Arena de Londres por el poder de la música más sexual de la historia. No habrá más Led Zeppelin, no hay planes de que lo haya.

Mensch comentó: "Led Zeppelin se acabó. Si no los vieron en el 2007, se los perdieron. Probaron reemplazantes a Robert Plant, pero nada funcionó. Se acabó. No hay planes para continuar. Francamente, ojalá todos dejaran de hablar al respecto."

Los fans no están nada contentos, especialmente los británicos, considerando los precios delirantes de las entradas del show reunión.

¿Y a ti? ¿Qué te parece todo esto?

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1602369/.jhtml

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