Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Lady Gaga's Barneys Workshop Is 'Essence Of Her'
Little Monsters gush to MTV News about Gaga's holiday-themed workshop and windows at famed Madison Avenue store.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Brian Phares
Lady Gaga premieres the Lady Gaga Workshop at Barneys New York
Photo: Getty Images
Lady Gaga is taking fans inside her world at the holiday-themed Gaga's Workshop at Barneys New York. Mother Monster-inspired products like head-shaped candles, leather jackets, her favorite books and chocolates shaped like shoes hit the shelves last week, and it's exactly the kind of stuff a Little Monster would ask Santa for.
MTV News caught up with some of the pop star's devotees as they were admired the Gaga windows outside the famed New York City department store. They gushed to us about the chance to pick out items hand-selected by Gaga and her stylist Nicola Formichetti.
"I think Gaga's Workshop, it's the essence of her," Hollis Gehrett said. "You walk in and you feel like you're in her apartment. I came to see her cut the ribbon, which was really cool, and she looked fabulous."
Fan Catherine Lloyd was also on hand when Gaga, decked out in a big white gown, cut the ribbon two Mondays ago at Barneys. "It's in her hometown. It's decorated to the nines, it's completely beautiful," she said. "The unveiling was beautiful — when she came out she looked like Glenda the Good Witch. There was just a lot of celebrities and fashion people walking around, so it was just a fun event in general."
Laura Donnelly said "the first thing I thought was 'fun,' like the colors and all the statues. I just thought it was a lot of fun."
"Kids can come and enjoy it. Adults can come and enjoy it [and] teenagers," Kyle Larkins noted about the in-store pop-up shop. "It really appeals to everyone."
Erin Sebestyen enjoyed how the workshop and windows show off Gaga's whimsical side: "It shows her holiday spirit, and how many celebrities really do that?"
After Gaga opened the store with a ribbon-cutting, her friend and collaborator DJ White Shadow, stopped by the MTV News offices to talk about the event and share his favorite item.
"I just was perusing the goods ... and there were some books that were her favorite books, and they have a special Barneys cover. I was trying to grab small things," he recalled. "But there's these hulking giant candles [in the shape of Gaga's head] that you light from the top. It's like you light the candles in the back and then the wax drips down through the eyes of the candle. So I was pretty impressed with it. I definitely procured one."
Have you checked out Gaga's Workshop yet? Tell us in the comments!
Related Videos Related ArtistsLady Gaga's Barneys Workshop Is 'Essence Of Her'
Little Monsters gush to MTV News about Gaga's holiday-themed workshop and windows at famed Madison Avenue store.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Brian Phares
Lady Gaga premieres the Lady Gaga Workshop at Barneys New York
Photo: Getty Images
Lady Gaga is taking fans inside her world at the holiday-themed Gaga's Workshop at Barneys New York. Mother Monster-inspired products like head-shaped candles, leather jackets, her favorite books and chocolates shaped like shoes hit the shelves last week, and it's exactly the kind of stuff a Little Monster would ask Santa for.
MTV News caught up with some of the pop star's devotees as they were admired the Gaga windows outside the famed New York City department store. They gushed to us about the chance to pick out items hand-selected by Gaga and her stylist Nicola Formichetti.
"I think Gaga's Workshop, it's the essence of her," Hollis Gehrett said. "You walk in and you feel like you're in her apartment. I came to see her cut the ribbon, which was really cool, and she looked fabulous."
Fan Catherine Lloyd was also on hand when Gaga, decked out in a big white gown, cut the ribbon two Mondays ago at Barneys. "It's in her hometown. It's decorated to the nines, it's completely beautiful," she said. "The unveiling was beautiful — when she came out she looked like Glenda the Good Witch. There was just a lot of celebrities and fashion people walking around, so it was just a fun event in general."
Laura Donnelly said "the first thing I thought was 'fun,' like the colors and all the statues. I just thought it was a lot of fun."
"Kids can come and enjoy it. Adults can come and enjoy it [and] teenagers," Kyle Larkins noted about the in-store pop-up shop. "It really appeals to everyone."
Erin Sebestyen enjoyed how the workshop and windows show off Gaga's whimsical side: "It shows her holiday spirit, and how many celebrities really do that?"
After Gaga opened the store with a ribbon-cutting, her friend and collaborator DJ White Shadow, stopped by the MTV News offices to talk about the event and share his favorite item.
"I just was perusing the goods ... and there were some books that were her favorite books, and they have a special Barneys cover. I was trying to grab small things," he recalled. "But there's these hulking giant candles [in the shape of Gaga's head] that you light from the top. It's like you light the candles in the back and then the wax drips down through the eyes of the candle. So I was pretty impressed with it. I definitely procured one."
Have you checked out Gaga's Workshop yet? Tell us in the comments!
Related Videos Related ArtistsHeavy D's Death Hits Nicki Minaj, Usher, More Celebs
'Truly gone too soon,' Usher tweets Tuesday.
By James Dinh
Heavy D
Photo: Frazer Harrison/ Getty Images
Hip-hop lost a rap icon when Heavy D died Tuesday afternoon (November 8) at age 44, and the music industry is clearly mourning the loss. A string of stars, including Usher, Timbaland and Nicki Minaj, have shared their memories of the late MC on Twitter.
Usher offered his sympathy to the family of the Jamaican-born rap heavyweight, tweeting, "This is too heavy, I can't believe it. HEAVY D was just here. Truly gone too soon. My heart and support goes out to his family. R.I.P HEAVY."
Mega-producer Timbaland couldn't even process the announcement, writing, "I'm at a loss for words rip heavy d."
After re-tweeting the late-MC's last message ("BE INSPIRED"), hip-hop's Harajuku Barbie also weighed in on the news. "We'll never forget you babe! #hiphopelite #RIPHeavyD," Nicki wrote.
From one raptress to the next, Missy Elliott shared her thoughts: "U will be missed Heavy D so many laughs we've shared but your Music is Timeless and will Always be Around 4ever Love u Heav..."
Ciara described the MC as "a really nice man. Sending my condolences to him and his family!"
DJ Drama and Nick Cannon reflected on the icon's impact. "Heavy D 'Who's The Man' was one of my 1st pieces of vinyl when I first started djayin," DJ Drama wrote. "Def 1 of the first 5 records I spent $ on. RIP."
Cannon said he had "just talked" to Heavy D, adding, "He was just encouraging me about life."
"RIP TO A REAL HIP HOP LEGEND HEAVY D!" Nas chimed in.
Juelz Santana recalled the rapper/actor's recent BET Hip Hop Awards performance. "RIP Heavy D. He was a Hip Hop Legend," he shared. "Crazy how sh-- happens. I was late 2 da BET Awards & Heavy D's Performance was 1 of da only 2 I got 2 see. Blessed 4 dat opportunity. RIP."
Boyz II Men, who shared the '90s spotlight with the MC, sent condolences to his family, writing, "UGH...heavy d..always cool as hell with us..just a sick feeling....praying for his little daughter and family."
Share your memories of Heavy D on Facebook.
Conrad Murray Verdict: Nicki Minaj, More Celebs React
Ryan Seacrest, MJ producer Darkchild and other stars also weigh in.
By James Dinh
Dr. Conrad Murray reacts after the jury returned with a guilty verdict in his involuntary manslaughter trial at Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday
Photo: Al Seib/Pool/Getty Images
Just like Michael Jackson's legions of die-hard fans, stars are also sounding off about the guilty verdict for former Jackson doctor Conrad Murray.
Shortly after the announcement Monday afternoon (November 7), the blogosphere was flooded with celebrity opinions, from Nicki Minaj, Ryan Seacrest, sister LaToya Jackson and more.
"People are cheering but there really are no winners here," Minaj tweeted. "This has been an utter tragedy from beginning to end. #RIPMichaelJackson."
Seacrest questioned how much time Murray will actually serve behind bars, writing, "Big question is will conrad murray serve time? Judge has 20 days to sentence him, and can give him up to 4 years in prison."
MJ producer and collaborator Darkchild was content with the news, tweeting,"#GUILTY Justice has been served but we still lost a great man, great father, greatest entertainer, and a great friend of mine! R.I.P MJ."
"VICTORY!!!!!! Michael I love you and I will continue to fight until ALL are brought to justice! Thank you EVERYONE for your love and support! It will ALWAYS be appreciated!" sister Latoya Jackson wrote on her Twitter, with the entire family also releasing a joint statement.
Piers Morgan described Murray's behavior as "unethical for a doctor." "#ConradMurray didn't deliberately kill #MichaelJackson, but his negligent actions allowed the death to occur," he wrote on Twitter.
Tyrese sent his wishes to the Jackson family, hoping they found closure in the ruling. "MICHAEL JACKSON YOU WILL FOREVER BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN... REST IN HEAVEN!! REST IN HEAVEN!! I hope the family has closure!! RIH!" he tweeted.
While some celebs, like ?uestlove of the Roots, had mixed feelings about the verdict ("Guilty. now what?" he wrote), Bravo star Patti Stanger rejoiced in the news: "The karma kat got Conrad Murray...guilty! Greed is never worth a person's life. X0," she tweeted.
MTV News will be covering the Conrad Murray case live. Go to MTVNews.com for breaking news, reactions and analysis from Los Angeles or tune to MTV for the latest updates.
Related Photos Related Artists
Britney Spears Video Tournament Down To Elite 8!
'Everytime' falls out of tournament in round two, losing to 'Lucky.'
By Vaughn Trudeau Schoonmaker
Britney Spears in her video for "Lucky"
Photo: Jive
Round three is now open for voting in the Britney Spears Tournament: 30 Videos for 30 Years!
When polls closed Sunday night, we had narrowed the brackets down from the Sweet 16 to the Elite Eight, and some of the results were shocking!
Four of the eight matchups in round two of the tournament remained neck-and-neck until the moments the polls closed. After holding the advantage for most of the second round, "Everytime," which also happens to be Perez Hilton's favorite Britney Spears video, fell out of the tournament, losing to Britney's diva alter ego in "Lucky."
Two of Britney's most dance-heavy videos, "(You Drive Me) Crazy" and "Me Against the Music," were back and forth with each other for most of the round before Madonna and Britney's hit lunged forward and sent green-tube-top Britney out of the tournament with less than 1 percent more of the votes.
Round three will see "Stronger" take on "Criminal" in a pairing that many thought would be "Oops! ... I Did It Again" vs. "... Baby One More Time." Of Britney's three VMA-winning videos that remained in round two, only her most recent win, "Till the World Ends," will move forward to battle it out with "Lucky."
Round three will also see two of Britney's most iconic videos, "Toxic" and "I'm a Slave 4 U," go up against each other; only one of them will make it to the Final Four.
Round three is open for voting until Wednesday, November 30, at 7 a.m. The final four will be announced and open for voting on the morning of Wednesday, November 30.
Which video are you rooting for? Are you surprised by any of the results so far? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
Related Videos Related ArtistsBeatCrave Fav of the Month Poll: Who Will You Pick?
We selected five bands for the month of November, and now we need you to vote for your �BeatCrave Fav� of the month! Your choices include: an L.A.-based band whose sound is as united, harmonious and seamless as it is layered with hints of alternative, country, and folk �A House for Lions�(listen here), four crazy [...]
Jennifer Gimenez Jennifer Love Hewitt Jennifer Morrison Jennifer ODell
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Amy Winehouse Remembered By Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, More
'RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace,' Perry writes. 'I am genuinely heartbroken about this,' Rihanna tweets.
By Jason Kaufman, with reporting by Kara Klenk
Amy Winehouse
Photo: Carlos Alvarez/ Getty Images
As news spread that 27-year-old Amy Winehouse was dead, stars immediately tweeted their shocked reactions and remorse over the lost talent.
Katy Perry, who touches down in Boise, Idaho, this weekend as part of her California Dreams Tour, tweeted her condolences, writing, "RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace."
Nicki Minaj, who is also on the road as part of Britney Spears' Femme Fatale jaunt, took to Twitter and expressed disbelief at the news of Winehouse's passing. "Please tell me Amy Winehouse didn't die," wrote the Young Money MC, who's set to hit the stage in Florida on Saturday (July 23). "Is this some sick joke?"
"I am genuinely heartbroken about this," wrote Rihanna, who continued to express her shock over multiple tweets. "Dear God have mercy!!! I am SICK about this right now!" In another, she wrote "U made a MAJAH impression on this industry and throughout the world, in such a short space of time...too short!"
Usher reflected on Winehouse, who he had known: "I'm so sad to hear the horrible news of Amy Winehouse's death. I'm so happy I knew you Amy...Rest Well. Gone Too Soon...we'll miss you!!""
Frequent tweeter Kim Kardashian used her 140 characters to send prayers: "I just heard the news that Amy Winehouse passed away. What a true talent. I pray she's in a better place & at peace."
Meanwhile, Ryan Seacrest showed Winehouse's impact on the music industry, singling out both Lady Gaga and Adele as those who had been influenced. "Sad to lose Amy Winehouse - incred talent. Both @LadyGaga & @OfficialAdele say Amy paved way for them."
Dr. Drew focused on the singer's well-documented struggles with addiction. "SO sad, another lost to addiction. A reminder this is often a fatal condition. Recovery is possible, but sadly not for Amy Winehouse."
Winehouse's American record label, Universal Republic, said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened at the sudden loss of such a gifted musician, artist and performer. Our prayers go out to Amy's family, friends and fans at this difficult time."
Many More Stars Are Reacting. Check Back To See Who Else Has Weighed In:
Leann Rimes: "RIP Amy Winehouse. So sad to see such a talent gone and her life end in tragedy. This makes me terribly sad."
Khloe Kardashian: "Wow! I just heard about Amy Winehouse passing away! Wow! So sad :( what an amazing talent"
Ashton Kutcher: "Rip amy winehouse"
Big Boi: "Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and now Amy Winehouse. All died aged 27. RIP to you all."
Kelly Osbourne: "i cant even breath right my now im crying so hard i just lost 1 of my best friends. i love you forever Amy & will never forget the real you!"
Rick Ross: "Wanted to collab w/ Amy Winehouse...r.i.p...smoking 1 in your memoryyy!!"
Janelle Monae: "heart is heavy. My heart goes out 2 Amy Winehouse's family, loved ones. Praying for their strength during this time."
Ricky Martin: "I just found out. I feel pain. I feel anger. Rest beautiful girl rest. You are free!"
Cee Lo: "Is it true about amy?"
Victoria Justice: "I'm so sad about the #amywinehouse news I heard this morning. She was 1 of my favorite artists. What a sad story, she was such a talent..."
Randy Jackson: "Wow what a tragic loss today in the music world, Amy Winehouse such a talent. She will be missed"
Kreayshawn: "I said she was a TIMELESS artist and a real artist because of her struggle. I'm so upset I love her! RIP Amy Winehouse"
What Was Your Favorite Winehouse Song? Pay Tribute To Her Talents On Facebook
Share your memories of Amy Winehouse in the comments below.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsNew Led Zeppelin On The Way? Jason Bonham Hints At 'Jam' Sessions With Jimmy Page -- But Not Robert Plant
Drummer admits he doesn't know what will come of 'new material.'
By Chris Harris
Jason Bonham
Photo: Larry Marano/ Getty Images
On Friday morning, mere hours before he was due to take the stage with classic rockers Foreigner at Detroit's GM Renaissance Center, drummer Jason Bonham — the son of late Led Zeppelin kitman John Bonham — told Jim Johnson and Lynne Woodison of local rock station 94.7 WCSX that he'd be an ex-member of Foreigner as of September 1. But that's not the only thing he said.
Much to the delight of Led Zeppelin fans everywhere, Bonham revealed that he's been meeting up with Led Zep guitarist Jimmy Page and bassist John Paul Jones in recent months and that they've been "trying to do some new material and writing."
It was the first time since Led Zeppelin announced they would re-form for a single performance (which happened late last year at London's O2 Arena, in honor of the late Ahmet Ertegün, who signed the band to Atlantic Records in 1969) that anyone connected to the band has confirmed publicly that new music could be on the horizon for the iconic rockers. While the bandmembers have stopped short of definitively ruling out such a reunion, singer Robert Plant insisted in the wake of last year's show that he intended to focus on promoting and touring behind his critically lauded album with bluegrass artist Alison Krauss, Raising Sand.
Not that Bonham knows what — if anything — will happen with the new material he's been working on with Page (who collaborated with pop singer Leona Lewis on an uneven version of Zep's "Whole Lotta Love" at the Olympic closing ceremonies in Beijing on Sunday night) and Jones. He said he just shows up and takes his seat behind the kit.
"I've been over [to England] a couple of times," Bonham said. "I've been working with Jimmy and John Paul and trying to do ... some new material and some writing. I don't know what it will be, but it will be something. At the moment, all I know is I have the great pleasure to go and jam with the two guys and start work on some material. When I get there, I never ask any questions. If I get a phone call to go and play, I enjoy every moment of it. Whatever it ends up as, to ever get a chance to jam with two people like that, it is a phenomenal thing for me. It's my life. It's what I've dreamed about doing."
He said it's still too early to tell what will become of these "jam" sessions, but admitted that the "possibility of doing something is in the cards. I really felt it was in the cards from the moment we walked offstage at the O2." Bonham also explained that, before there could be a Led Zep LP, "lots of politics [would need to] get ironed out," but added that recording with Zep is "something I've always wanted to do."
Bonham noticeably didn't mention frontman Plant's name during the discussion. A spokesperson for Page's management had no comment on the matter, and a spokesperson for Jones' management could not be reached by press time.
Related ArtistsAdam Lambert's 'Whole Lotta Love': The Story Behind The Cover
Glam rocker tackled the legendary 1970 Led Zeppelin song for 'American Idol' rock night.
By Gil Kaufman
Adam Lambert performs "Whole Lotta Love" on "American Idol" on Tuesday
Photo: R. Mickshaw/Getty Images/ Fox
Imagine a freight train speeding toward you at midnight. Or a rockslide barreling down a hill as you try to outrace it. That's the feeling of the ominous, chugging Jimmy Page riff that kicks off Led Zeppelin's 1970 Stonehenge of rock, "Whole Lotta Love." And that's before singer Robert Plant leans into one of the nastiest, ecstatic rock screams this side of the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again."
That's the song Adam Lambert chose to sing on "American Idol" rock night Tuesday (May 5), and, needless to say, it was a challenge that the eyeliner-loving Los Angeles stage veteran was more than up for, hitting a series of high notes and rock screams that would have made Plant proud. It was a risky maneuver that paid off for Lambert, who chose a tune that came in at #75 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2004.
The legendary British rock act recorded the tribute to Chicago blues icon Willie Dixon during their second U.S. tour after working it out in their live show, including it on their 1969 classic album Led Zeppelin II. Like many of the songs Zeppelin performed early in their career, "Love" was a blues standard turned on its head with a heavy dose of crunching psychedelic guitar and thundering drums, courtesy of late drummer John Bonham. The song was based on a 1962 tune by another blues forefather, Muddy Waters, called "You Need Love," which was penned by Dixon.
For Zeppelin's version, Plant customized the lyrics by adding some lyrical quotes from a few other songs Dixon wrote for Howlin' Wolf, "Back Door Man" and "Shake For Me," nailing the tricky vocal in a single take. It was also inspired by 1966's "You Need Loving" from the British rock group the Small Faces, for whom Zeppelin had great affection, but they also did not credit Dixon for his part in writing the original lyrics. The song became Zeppelin's first U.S. single and their only U.S. top 10 hit. Though their manager would not let them release singles in the U.K. because he thought it cannibalized album sales, the song was finally released as the band's only British single in 1997.
Dixon sued Zeppelin over the song in 1985, claiming it borrowed too heavily from his "You Need Love," and Zeppelin reached an agreement with him, with Dixon using the money he received to set up a program that provided musical instruments for schools. A cornerstone of heavy rock, the tune -- which was the theme song for the long-running British countdown show "Top of the Pops" in the 1970s and '80s -- has been covered by dozens of artists over the years, from Tina Turner and Ben Harper to Prince, Slash, Leona Lewis, Train's Pat Monahan, the London Symphony Orchestra and Jane's Addiction.
Get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsBritney Spears Concert Special: 3 Can't-Miss Moments
Get a sneak peek of the Femme Fatale special before it airs Saturday on Epix.
By Jocelyn Vena
Britney Spears
Photo: MTV News & Docs
Light your vanilla candles and snuggle under the covers: The Britney Spears concert special drops this weekend!
Filmed at the Toronto stop of her Femme Fatale Tour, the special — which airs Saturday on Epix at 8 p.m. ET/PT — puts every fan in the front row. Look out for cameos from Nicki Minaj and Sabi, killer dancing, beautifully designed costumes, elaborate stage setups and a set list that even the biggest Britney critic couldn't help but shake their groove thing to.
In a sea of can't-miss moments, there are definitely several standouts. Lucky for you, we've rounded them up!
Britney Singing "Don't Let Me Be the Last to Know"
It's rare these days to see Britney Spears show her soft side, but she takes a break from the nonstop, fist-pumping music during the spectacle that is the Femme Fatale Tour and kicks it old-school, showing us she still has the heart and soul to bust out a power ballad.
The Short Films
These glossy, dark and incredibly fashionable cinematic clips follow the Femme Fatale herself as she gets into risky situations, being pursued by dangerous men with even more dangerous intentions. Of course, Spears isn't all that innocent herself, giving the boys a run for their money in the bad department. They don't call her the Femme Fatale for nothing.
The Lap Dance
Over the course of her tour, Britney has chosen one lucky guy for a very special dance, and the lucky guy at the Toronto tour stop can watch his dance on loop forever. Brit made that gentleman, named Alex, very happy when he was picked from a sea of devotees to get a private lap dance from Britney and her sexy backup dancers during "Leather and Lace."
The special hits DVD and Blu-ray on November 21. Backstreet Boy Howie D will join Spears on the Femme Fatale Tour before it wraps up December 10 in Puerto Rico.
What tour moments are you hoping are in the special? Let us know in the comments!
Related Artists
Amy Winehouse Remembered By Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, More
'RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace,' Perry writes. 'I am genuinely heartbroken about this,' Rihanna tweets.
By Jason Kaufman, with reporting by Kara Klenk
Amy Winehouse
Photo: Carlos Alvarez/ Getty Images
As news spread that 27-year-old Amy Winehouse was dead, stars immediately tweeted their shocked reactions and remorse over the lost talent.
Katy Perry, who touches down in Boise, Idaho, this weekend as part of her California Dreams Tour, tweeted her condolences, writing, "RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace."
Nicki Minaj, who is also on the road as part of Britney Spears' Femme Fatale jaunt, took to Twitter and expressed disbelief at the news of Winehouse's passing. "Please tell me Amy Winehouse didn't die," wrote the Young Money MC, who's set to hit the stage in Florida on Saturday (July 23). "Is this some sick joke?"
"I am genuinely heartbroken about this," wrote Rihanna, who continued to express her shock over multiple tweets. "Dear God have mercy!!! I am SICK about this right now!" In another, she wrote "U made a MAJAH impression on this industry and throughout the world, in such a short space of time...too short!"
Usher reflected on Winehouse, who he had known: "I'm so sad to hear the horrible news of Amy Winehouse's death. I'm so happy I knew you Amy...Rest Well. Gone Too Soon...we'll miss you!!""
Frequent tweeter Kim Kardashian used her 140 characters to send prayers: "I just heard the news that Amy Winehouse passed away. What a true talent. I pray she's in a better place & at peace."
Meanwhile, Ryan Seacrest showed Winehouse's impact on the music industry, singling out both Lady Gaga and Adele as those who had been influenced. "Sad to lose Amy Winehouse - incred talent. Both @LadyGaga & @OfficialAdele say Amy paved way for them."
Dr. Drew focused on the singer's well-documented struggles with addiction. "SO sad, another lost to addiction. A reminder this is often a fatal condition. Recovery is possible, but sadly not for Amy Winehouse."
Winehouse's American record label, Universal Republic, said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened at the sudden loss of such a gifted musician, artist and performer. Our prayers go out to Amy's family, friends and fans at this difficult time."
Many More Stars Are Reacting. Check Back To See Who Else Has Weighed In:
Leann Rimes: "RIP Amy Winehouse. So sad to see such a talent gone and her life end in tragedy. This makes me terribly sad."
Khloe Kardashian: "Wow! I just heard about Amy Winehouse passing away! Wow! So sad :( what an amazing talent"
Ashton Kutcher: "Rip amy winehouse"
Big Boi: "Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and now Amy Winehouse. All died aged 27. RIP to you all."
Kelly Osbourne: "i cant even breath right my now im crying so hard i just lost 1 of my best friends. i love you forever Amy & will never forget the real you!"
Rick Ross: "Wanted to collab w/ Amy Winehouse...r.i.p...smoking 1 in your memoryyy!!"
Janelle Monae: "heart is heavy. My heart goes out 2 Amy Winehouse's family, loved ones. Praying for their strength during this time."
Ricky Martin: "I just found out. I feel pain. I feel anger. Rest beautiful girl rest. You are free!"
Cee Lo: "Is it true about amy?"
Victoria Justice: "I'm so sad about the #amywinehouse news I heard this morning. She was 1 of my favorite artists. What a sad story, she was such a talent..."
Randy Jackson: "Wow what a tragic loss today in the music world, Amy Winehouse such a talent. She will be missed"
Kreayshawn: "I said she was a TIMELESS artist and a real artist because of her struggle. I'm so upset I love her! RIP Amy Winehouse"
What Was Your Favorite Winehouse Song? Pay Tribute To Her Talents On Facebook
Share your memories of Amy Winehouse in the comments below.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsMonday, November 28, 2011
'Hugo' Director Martin Scorsese Speaks On His Productivity, Legacy
'One tries to do the best you can with each picture, hopefully continue making them,' renowned filmmaker tells us.
By Kara Warner with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Asa Butterfield in "Hugo"
Photo: Paramount Pictures
Martin Scorsese's career is one of such significance and acclaim that the Oscar-winning director could retire from the business right now, knowing that his living-legend status would remain intact. It is clear he has no plans to slow down, however, due to the fact that in the last year alone, he's been involved in five feature film and documentary projects, the most recent being his first family-oriented film, the critically acclaimed "Hugo."
When MTV News caught up with Scorsese recently, we asked him to explain the secrets behind his productivity. "There seems to be a sort of urgency, an interest in making comments on certain aspects of life and the world around me, the people, culture today," Scorsese said when asked if he's working under his own self-imposed deadlines or urgency to complete projects. "Whether it's trying to deal with how art inspires a young person — and that is 'A Letter to Elia' — or trying to create a spectacle of American enterprise and corruption as [with] Terry Winter and his show that I'm working on with him, 'Boardwalk Empire,' or people speaking their minds and very strong opinions, like Fran Lebowitz in 'Public Speaking,' but even more so was working for five or six years on 'George Harrison: Living in the Material World,' with David Tedeschi. That is interesting because that was finished at the same time as 'Hugo.' Those five projects were finally released all within one year."
We then asked if with this sudden urgency, Scorsese is conscious or concerned with preserving his legacy as a filmmaker.
"Not really, maybe I [was] at one point," he admitted. "I'm not quite sure anymore. I don't really know. I think at one point in the early '90s, there seemed to be a lot of films being made here in America and in China and around the world that had been inspired by 'Mean Streets' ... that may still be the case that may not be the case, I don't know anymore. One tries not to think of that. One tries to do the best you can with each picture, hopefully continue making them and that they mean something, that they matter to people."
Check out everything we've got on "Hugo."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related VideosMichael Fassbender Looks Back On 'Surreal' 2011
From 'X-Men: First Class' to 'Shame,' Fassbender is one of the actors MTV News is most thankful for this year.
By Kevin P. Sullivan, with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Michael Fassbender
Photo: MTV News
Every once in a while, an actor with a breakout role will come along and capture the attention of both moviegoers and the people behind the films. Soon, you can find that same actor headlining films at festivals as well as scoring top billing on blockbusters.
For 2011, that actor was undoubtedly Michael Fassbender, who wowed the art-house crowd in 2008 with "Hunger" and found wider audiences a year later with Quentin Tarantino's "Inglourious Basterds" as the British Lieutenant Archie Hicox, who reserves a circle of hell for people who waste good scotch.
This past year, Fassbender became a superstar. He helped lead a brand-new team of mutants to box-office success as a young Magneto in "X-Men: First Class," and then delivered critically praised performances in "Jane Eyre," "A Dangerous Method" and "Shame," for which he's receiving Oscar buzz.
That's why we've named Michael Fassbender one of the actors we're most thankful for this holiday season. We sat down with Fassbender and gave him a chance to look back on 2011 and tell us why a different year — 2007 — meant everything to him.
MTV: Every year at MTV, we choose a few actors that we're most thankful for around Thanksgiving, and you've made the cut.
Fassbender: Have I really?
MTV: You have.
Fassbender: Nice one.
MTV: Obviously, a couple years back, when "Inglourious" hit, especially, that was a big moment for you, but it feels like this year has to be professionally the most satisfying year.
Fassbender: No, I got to say, for me, definitely 2007 changed my life.
MTV: "Hunger."
Fassbender: Yeah, Steve McQueen gave me an opportunity, a possibility to show some sort of capability in my profession. It was coming at a point when we were about to go into a recession. That was going to affect this business as much as any business — less jobs for less actors. For him to take a risk on an unknown in a lead role, it changed my life, really. From that, I had all these amazing experiences with Andrea Arnold, Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, Cary Fukunaga, David Cronenberg, Ridley Scott.
MTV: It feels like this is where it all bears fruit. The seeds that were planted then, now it all starts to come out.
Fassbender: Yeah, you start off and you just want to be working, so jobbing actors, you're already thankful for that opportunity. To be in this position that I'm in now, it's ridiculous. Somebody pull the plug on me now. I have to say I'm blessed. When I started out when I was 17, this was the pinnacle, to be working with people that I find inspiring, I can learn from. It's a very privileged position.
MTV: Was there one particular moment in this year of 2011 that was the most surreal, the biggest high for you? A lot of premieres, a lot of production work, a lot of press. Was there one moment you can pinpoint?
Fassbender: Just lots of surreal moments. When I was sitting in a balcony in Venice — I've never been to Venice before — and I'm there with family and friends, and we're like, "Wow, this is a trip, isn't it?" We're all sort of experiencing this together. You're always sort of pinching yourself.
Being on a Quentin Tarantino set. When I was 18, I did a stage version of "Reservoir Dogs" with my friends, where I directed, produced, played Mr. Pink. I mean, I was totally green. I didn't know what the hell I was doing, but I knew that with hard work and enthusiasm, things get done. So then to be sitting on set with him, I was like, "This is weird." Already at the audition with him was strange, because he reads all the other parts. That was surreal.
To have this sort of reception we've had for both films in Venice, to be there with two films, all those things are pretty mad.
Check out everything we've got on "Shame."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Conrad Murray's Lawyers Planning Appeal
Michael Jackson doctor convicted of involuntary manslaughter on Monday.
By Gil Kaufman
Dr. Conrad Murray
Photo: Al Seib/Pool/Getty Images
The lawyers for Conrad Murray are planning to lodge an appeal on behalf of Michael Jackson's former doctor.
Murray, who was immediately sent to jail on Monday following his conviction on a single felony charge, is being housed in a part of the Los Angeles County jail set aside for high-profile prisoners. According to CNN, Murray's defense team has promised to appeal the conviction, but not before they prepare for his upcoming sentencing hearing on November 29. Defense attorney Nareg Gourjian said that Murray was "devastated" by the guilty verdict, but he is "confident" that he will win release on appeal.
"What matters most right now is trying to keep Dr. Murray from taking up a prison cell in this community," lead defense lawyer Ed Chernoff said. "That's what we're focusing on right now and we'll deal with an appeal after that."
Though Murray is facing up to four years in state prison on the charge, because of recent changes in sentencing laws in California aimed at reducing prison overcrowding, he is unlikely to spend any time in a state facility. His lawyers plan to ask for probation and Gourjian said he expects his client to spend "maybe a little bit" of time in county jail.
Both lawyers said they were not surprised by the verdict but that their case was hampered by some of the pre-trial rulings that were made on evidence the defense had planned to show the jury. "I think that's essentially what denied Dr. Murray a fair trial in this case," Gourjian said. He suggested that the outcome may have been different if Murray's team had been able to introduce evidence on Jackson's past drug use and dire "financial condition."
The verdict is in on the Conrad Murray trial. Stick with MTV News for continued coverage, updates and analysis on MTVNews.com.
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Concert Picks: Selebrities, The Bright Light Social Hour, Fitz and the Tantrums?
In the spirit of being thankful, we’d like to express how much we appreciate the live venue and the bands, singer/songwriters, remix masters, duos, one-man/one-woman electronic outfits and so on who have made their way on our bill this year. There has been no shortage of talent on our radar, and it goes without saying [...]
'Breaking Dawn' Carolina Herrera Wedding Gown To Hit Stores
Also, Alfred Angelo's official replica of the designer's 'Twilight' dress is available nationwide for $799.
By Rob Markman
Alfred Angelo's replica of Bella Swan's dress from "Breaking Dawn"
Photo: Alfred Angelo
You too can look like Bella Swan on her wedding day now that the official replica of the elegant gown Kristen Stewart wore in "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1" is available in stores. The Carolina Herrera-designed dress that Stewart wears when she and Robert Pattinson trade vows onscreen arrived in stores on Monday, priced at $799, according to The Wall Street Journal.
In addition to the movie's much ballyhooed sex scene, fans eagerly anticipated the wedding scene, where Bella dons the glorious long-sleeve lace bridal gown. Though the film's version of the dress was designed by Herrera, bridal retailer Alfred Angelo handled the replication and has been working with Summit Entertainment since May to get the item in stores in time for the film's premiere. The dresses are available at Alfred Angelo stores nationwide.
Herrera herself will also be selling the gown in her CHNY boutiques next year, according to a Reuters report. Details on how many dresses will be produced and how much the gown will cost have not been released.
During our "MTV First: Breaking Dawn" live stream earlier this month, Stewart, flanked by co-stars Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner, described the fantasy nuptials as "realistically ceremonial" and "very, very emotional." She even kept the dress a secret from her castmates, except for Pattinson, who caught a sneak peek, much to her dismay.
"Nobody saw it until I walked out, which made me so ...," Stewart said, struggling for the right word. "It wasn't about the dress, it was just everything involved. I was like, ugh, so very the center of attention at that very moment."
Herrera's original design was, of course, inspired by the book. "I was called by Stephenie Meyer. We had to discuss a lot, but I was very inspired by her book and the description of the wedding," Herrera said at the film's premiere. "I was very flattered I was asked to do it; it's a big scene for me."
Though she made the dress for Stewart, a big-time actress in one of the highest-grossing films of the year, Herrera approached the design just as she would any other bride.
"Wedding dresses are different, because you have to know that it's the most important day in the life of a woman," she said. "You have to please the bride first of all, and it has to be a secret. I cannot talk about the dress before the groom sees it.
"I treated [Kristen Stewart's Bella] like every other bride," she admitted. "I think [Stewart] was very moved when she tried it on. And that means a lot, because she felt that it was the right one."
Would you purchase a replica of Bella Swan's wedding gown for your special day? Tell us in the comments!
Check out everything we've got on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
'Breaking Dawn' Director Gave Fans 'A Lot' Of Sex
Bill Condon tells MTV News he tried 'to give people the experience they had reading the book' in 'Part 1.'
By Terri Schwartz, with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Director Bill Condon on the set of "Twilight: Breaking Dawn - Part 1" with Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson
Photo: Andrew Cooper/Summit
"Breaking Dawn - Part 1" features two of the most hotly anticipated moments in the entire "Twilight Saga." First, lovebirds Bella Swan and Edward Cullen finally get it on. And later, in a far less tender scene, Bella endures a pretty gory birth to give life to her half-human, half-vampire daughter, Renesmee.
Bill Condon knew all along that those two scenes were pivotal moments that he would need to get right onscreen. But keeping in mind the PG-13 rating the studio wanted to preserve, the director also knew that he had to tackle those intense sequences without going too far over the line. When MTV News caught up with Condon, he predicted that fans will be pleased with the final product (especially the sex scene), which hit theaters on Friday (November 18).
As in the novel, the honeymoon scene plays out mostly through Bella remembering the passionate night the morning after, which allowed Condon to show the event in several parts.
"I think when you see the movie you'll see, you think you get it and then you get more of it and then you get more of it, which I think was part of the intention because it's such a big thing — everyone's been waiting for it," he said. "We just wanted to make sure you got a lot of it when you got it."
And Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart were good sports about the whole process, Condon said, though he admitted filming the steamy section got "kind of clinical." The scene was carefully choreographed but the two lead actors were "so cool about it."
The birthing sequence, which easily could have pushed the film to an "R" rating, proved similarly challenging. Condon wanted to stay as true as possible to Stephenie Meyer's depiction but he knew he couldn't be too graphic. "You want to give people the experience they had reading the book, and that was incredibly powerful, the way Stephenie described it.
"You can't show everything, obviously, we have a [PG-13] rated movie," he said. "But we did it through the point of view of Bella and what she can see as she's giving birth. I think your imagination fills in a lot of that."
Check out everything we've got on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
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Taylor Swift, Rihanna Dress To Impress At Billboard Awards
Nicki Minaj, Ke$ha, Selena Gomez also make fashion splash on red carpet, as showgirl style rules at the Las Vegas event on Sunday night.
By Jocelyn Vena
Taylor Swift at the 2011 Billboard Music Awards
Photo: Jordan Strauss/ Getty Images
On Sunday night, some of the biggest names in the music industry hit up the Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas and decided that sparkles and sequins make for the perfect additions to any red carpet get-up. Well, it is Sin City after all.
Taylor Swift always seems to bring some of that Nashville sparkle to any red carpet. She arrived at the show in a pale-hued, sequined Elie Saab gown. Nicki Minaj showed off her signature sense of style in her baby-blue, body-hugging spandex Mark Fast catsuit.
Selena Gomez turned up the style dial in a sexy, cut-out black Dolce & Gabbana gown that she paired with red strappy sandals with sparkly bow detailing. Like Gomez, Ke$ha opted for some cut-out detailing in her sparkly, slate-gray dress with tulle skirt. Rihanna looked white hot in her men's tailored Max Azria suit, which she kept sexy and feminine by not buttoning her shirt all the way.
Fergie went S&M chic in her little black bandage-type dress by Hervé Léger. Nicole Kidman also wore black. She paired a casual braid hairstyle with a long black gown and Keith Urban. British pop cutie Kyle Minogue looked funky in her little black lacey dress. Inside the show, Britney Spears sat in the audience wearing a skimpy black dress of her own, her hair in loose curls, with little-to-no accessories.
While some stars kept the color scheme low-key, Keri Hilson decided to stand out in her billowy little yellow dress paired with a turquoise-colored belt. Kelly Rowland showed off some of her best assets in a body-hugging, bright pink bandage dress.
The fellas also looked tight on the carpet. Joe Jonas wore all black with white sneakers, Ne-Yo paired his periwinkle suit with a Yankees cap and Justin Bieber wore black tuxedo pants with a gold-lamé tuxedo jacket.
Which stars' styles caught your eye at the Billboard Music Awards? Tell us in the comments.
Related Photos Related ArtistsNicki Minaj Named Billboard's Rising Star Of 2011
'My nation of Barbz and I have come a mighty long way,' the rapper says in a statement.
By James Dinh
Nicki Minaj
Photo: Bryan Bedder/ Getty Images
Take it from Nicki Minaj: Hard work pays off. From underground mixtape artist to platinum-selling superstar, the Young Money raptress has been named Billboard's Rising Star of 2011.
Alongside Taylor Swift, who was named Billboard's Woman of the Year, the Harajuku Barbie will accept the Rising Star award at the sixth annual Women in Music event in New York on December 2.
"I am deeply honored to be recognized by Billboard," Minaj said in a statement. "My nation of Barbz and I have come a mighty long way; yet we are nowhere close to where God will take us. Sit back and enjoy the ride."
And what a ride the past year has been. Since releasing her full-length debut album, Pink Friday, in late November 2010, the hip-hop darling has broken records, released a string of hit singles and toured with pop royalty. Most recently, the rapper nabbed a pair of American Music Awards, including Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist and Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album.
Bill Werde, Billboard's editorial director, echoed the starlet's accomplishments, saying, "Nicki Minaj has established herself as a force in hip-hop and pop music, and we're thrilled to recognize her accomplishments over the past year by honoring her as this year's Rising Star. Her unique style and powerful sound will undoubtedly lead to a long and lustrous career, and we look forward to seeing where she goes and what she does next."
Minaj follows an elite group of Rising Star recipients, including Jazmine Sullivan (2010), Lady Gaga (2009) and Colbie Caillat (2008).
Word of the MC's achievement comes just a day after she announced her sophomore effort, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, which is scheduled to drop on Valentine's Day. In addition to the forthcoming LP, the superstar just wrapped up filming the clip for her David Guetta collaboration "Turn Me On," which she also performed at the AMAs. " *sigh* just wrapped the video for Turn Me On.... You'll love it ;)," she tweeted early Wednesday morning (November 23).
Send your congrats to Nicki in the comments!
Related ArtistsBritney Spears Video Tournament Down To Sweet 16!
'Toxic' and 'Oops! I Did It Again' sail into round two, while 'Sometimes' and 'I Wanna Go' are early casualties.
By Vaughn Trudeau Schoonmaker
Britney Spears in her "Hold it Against Me" video
Photo: Jive
After a surprisingly tight race among the 30 Britney Spears music videos in the first round of MTV News' Britney Spears Tournament: 30 Videos for 30 Years, we are now down to 16 candidates for her best video of all time!
Perez Hilton and Jordan Miller of Britney fansite BreatheHeavy.com helped the MTV News correspondents weigh in on the first round, which saw the surprising and merciless elimination of the classic "Sometimes" and the newer hit "I Wanna Go."
"I think that 'I Wanna Go' is one of Britney's all-time best videos," Perez said of the clip, which was defeated by her even newer video for "Criminal," co-starring real-life boyfriend Jason Trawick. "I like the 'Criminal' video; I don't love it."
Meanwhile, some videos were huge leaders early on, like "Toxic," "Oops! I Did It Again," "I'm a Slave 4 U," "Me Against the Music" and early "TRL"-era hit "(You Drive Me) Crazy."
Head over to Britney30.MTV.com and vote for your favorite music video in MTV News' Britney Spears Tournament: 30 Videos for 30 Years.
The race between "Lucky" and "Boys" was a closer call than MTV News expected, with only a 7 percent margin between the two videos; "Lucky" was the eventual winner. Another interesting twist was the dark "My Prerogative" clip's triumph over the happy-go-lucky vibe of "Sometimes."
With 16 videos left, the race gets much tighter. Now, Britney's most epic and most-celebrated videos will be up against each other. "(You Drive Me) Crazy" will take on the double-pop queen-powered "Me Against the Music," featuring Madonna, while Britney's first video, " ... Baby One More Time," takes on her most recent clip, "Criminal."
"Till the World Ends" and "Piece of Me," which had byes in the first round, are no longer safe, as they are pitted against "My Prerogative" and "Hold It Against Me," respectively, in round two, which closes at 11:59 p.m. Sunday. The Elite Eight will be announced at 7 a.m. Monday. Help your favorite videos win by voting as many times as you can and campaigning.
What's your favorite Britney video? Make sure to vote at Britney30.MTV.com or the MTV Newsroom blog, and share your picks in the comments below!
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSaturday, November 26, 2011
Lady Gaga?s Thanksgiving Meal with Family To Be Broadcast on ABC
If you won’t be busy trying to survive our own annual family reunion this Thanksgiving, you surely don’t want to watch Lady Gaga�carve a turkey with her parents and sister for 90 minutes…right? Well, ABC has scheduled A Very Gaga Thanksgiving�to give us all an “intimate look inside the private life of award-winning artist as [...]
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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