Monday, October 31, 2011
Britney Spears - Till the World Ends
- Artist: Britney Spears
- Label: Jive
- Director: Ray Kay
- Album: Femme Fatale [Deluxe Edition]
Demi Lovato, Kelly Clarkson Reveal Halloween Plans
'A pirate or Ke$ha ... they're one in the same," Lovato jokes.
By Christina Garibaldi
Demi Lovato
Photo: MTV News
It's Halloween, a favorite time of the year when you can dress up as someone (or something) entirely different from yourself. Some will take the scary route, some will dress up in a sexy costume, and others might transform themselves into their favorite celebrity.
So, what are some of the biggest pop stars doing to celebrate the big day? When MTV News caught up with Demi Lovato, she told us about her Halloween plans.
"I think I'm going to dress up, but I think I'm just going to pass out candy," Lovato said.
And it seems the Unbroken singer can't decide what she will be. "I think I'm going to be a pirate or Ke$ha — two similar options; they're one in the same," she joked.
It sounds like Lovato's trick-or-treaters are in for something special. Yet, not everyone has a costume in mind. When Kelly Clarkson stopped by MTV News on Friday, she was still unsure what she was going to be this Halloween.
"I think we are going to be in Cologne, Germany," Clarkson said. "We'll probably find a bar somewhere and dress up stupid. Our schedule's been so busy, we kind of forgot that it's happening. We'll all dress up; we're all pretty game for stuff like that."
And Clarkson wasn't kidding. The Stronger singer seems up for just about anything: Just ask about her favorite Halloween memory.
"I didn't know I was supposed to dress up for something at work — this was years ago — and I ended up going to Wal-Mart," Clarkson revealed. "The only thing they had left was a XXXL cow costume, and it had udders that were dragging on the floor. It was really gross and awesome."
What would you like to see your favorite pop stars wear this Halloween? Let us know in the comments!
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Sunday, October 30, 2011
How Do 'In Time' Stars Make The Most Of Their Time?
We ask Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried and more how they avoid wasting time at the DMV, on a plane and more.
By Kara Warner
Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried in "In Time"
Photo: 20th Century Fox
Hey, Justin Timberlake fans: You can now celebrate your favorite triple threat's return to the big screen via the new sci-fi thriller "In Time." The film is set in the not-so-distant future in a society that lives and dies according to how much time you have and can acquire. In this world, time is literally money, and when your time runs out, you die.
In the spirit of making the most of time, although in not quite as serious a manner as is portrayed in the film, when MTV News caught up with the cast of "In Time," we asked a series of rapid-fire questions pegged to getting the most out of everyday scenarios: "How do you make the most of your time, when ... "
1. On a plane?
"Oh, I like to read or do crossword puzzles," said Vincent Kartheiser, whom "Mad Men" fans will recognize as bad guy Pete Campbell.
"I sleep, normally," Amanda Seyfried said, "but [I like to listen to] audio books or knit."
2. On hold with customer service?
"When the [customer service rep] comes back, I like to completely change voices," Timberlake revealed, changing his voice into a deep, serious baritone. " 'Hey, I'd like to speak to your supervisor,' and then [changing his voice into a high-pitched, younger voice], 'Hey, man, listen, I had a problem,' " he play-acted for us.
"I put [the phone] on speaker and get some work done," Matt Bomer said.
3. God forbid, when the Internet goes down?
"You should read a book," Bomer advised of this worst-case scenario. "Maybe the newspaper, get caught up on current events."
Seyfried told us she's trying to cut down her Internet use. "It gets to be time consuming, so when the Internet goes down, you just have to read the newspaper," she said.
4. When waiting at the DMV?
"Power through," Bomer advised of the always-long lines at the Department of Motor Vehicles. "Whatever you can get done. Sudoku, Maybe?"
"There's always one person who's like, 'I hate this place! I'm never coming back!' " Kartheiser said.
"Google whatever the state legal limit is for blood alcohol concentration, because that's usually why I'm there," Timberlake added with a laugh.
Check out everything we've got on "In Time."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Ke$ha Wants 'Till The World Ends' Remix To 'Take Over Airwaves'
Singer says her collaboration with Britney Spears and Nicki Minaj made a 'supergroup of three hot, strong women.'
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Matt Elias
Ke$ha
Photo: MTV News
Earlier this week, Britney Spears, Ke$ha and Nicki Minaj dropped their femme-fatale-friendly remix of the Spears club track "Till the World Ends." The already fun song got super-charged thanks to Minaj's cutting verses and Ke$ha's recognizable vocals.
"I'm a massive fan of both the ladies I share the track with," K told MTV News on Wednesday at the ASCAP Pop Music Awards. "I wrote 'TTWE' for Britney with [producers] Dr. Luke and Max [Martin] and she killed it and I loved it, but I just thought a supergroup of three hot, strong women could just take over the airwaves."
Ke$ha went on to give props to both the ladies. "I'm such a massive fan of Britney and I'm such a massive supporter of Nicki and a fan, and chicks sometimes don't team up. I don't know why, but I'm, like, huge on the girl power, so I just wanted to make a power girl track take over."
The remix quickly won praise from fans who seem to think the new features step up the song's game. "You know, with the three of us, I wasn't necessarily surprised [people like it] because I'm such a massive fan of Nicki Minaj and obviously with Britney I'm a fan of it, [taking] myself out of the equation," she said. "I'm just happy people like it."
So did Ke$ha (who once sang backup for Spears) feel any pressure writing a song for Britney? "There was no pressure. Writing for somebody else is really fun 'cause I consider myself a songwriter first and foremost," she explained. "So it was so much fun to put my brain in the sexy Britney Spears brain and express myself almost as if I were possessed by her."
Related Artists'In Time': The Reviews Are In!
Justin Timberlake's sci-fi thriller has audiences and critics divided.
By Kara Warner
Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried in "In Time"
Photo: 20th Century Fox
What do you get when you mix a futuristic, time-as-money/life-or-death premise; a cast of pretty young things, including Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried, Matt Bomer and Cillian Murphy; plus the sound sci-fi sensibilities of writer/director Andrew Niccol ("Gattaca," "The Truman Show") and appropriately stylized cinematography by Roger Deakins ("True Grit," "The Reader")? "In Time" is what, a complex, visually appealing sci-fi thriller that has audiences and critics somewhat divided. (The critical collective over at Rotten Tomatoes is at 36 percent rotten, while its audience rating sits at 76 percent fresh.)
Take a few moments to check out the film's ticking points, if you will, as we sift through the "In Time" reviews!
The Story
"The premise builds on the notion that time is money. In the movie's dystopian future, where today's cars have tomorrow's grilles, time has replaced money. People are born with genetic clocks that stop at the age of 25; after that they've got one year in which to beg, borrow, steal or even earn more time. If they don't, the digital clocks embedded in their forearms dwindle down to zero and they time out, i.e., die. That's clever, right? But then there are roving gangs called Minute Men (Teddy Boy types out of 'A Clockwork Orange') who steal time; the borderline-silly spectacle of almost everyone looking 25; the polemic element of social injustice (the richest of the rich can live forever because they've got eons socked away); and the action-adventure element, a clumsy amalgam of Robin Hood, 'Bonnie and Clyde,' 'The Avengers,' 'Les Misérables,' 'Dick Tracy' (for the color and graphics) and Mr. Niccol's earlier, and impressive, genetic-engineering opus 'Gattaca.' " — Joe Morgenstern, Wall Street Journal
The Sci-Fi Confusion/ High-Concept Factor
"For a movie about the importance of maximizing every second, 'In Time' ultimately grows repetitive and wears out its welcome. It's fast-paced and hugely stylish, though, with its great-looking cast and a mix of gleaming, futuristic visuals and grimy, industrial chic. And it's a welcome return to the kind of slick sci-fi Niccol made his name on in the mid-'90s with 'Gattaca' and 'The Truman Show' (which he wrote). But his high-concept premise raises several nagging questions. Why do all the inhabitants of this dystopian world (which happens to look just like downtown Los Angeles and Century City) stop aging at 25, then find themselves with only a year left unless they can buy themselves more? When did this start — what is the purpose? And if Justin Timberlake is so busy working in a factory just so he can afford to live one day to the next, where does he find time to go to the gym?" — Christy Lemire, The Associated Press
The Performances
"There are moguls who are mean and have more time than God, which they bank in banks. Chief among them is a calculatingly evil Philippe Weis ('Mad Men's' Vincent Kartheiser, well-turned-out here too), with daughter Sylvia (Seyfried) the apple of Daddy's eye — although whether he loves her or time more will be tested. There are regular bad guys, time thieves called Minutemen, led by Alex Pettyfer, who seems to be getting a little too comfortable in bad-guy roles ('Beastly,' 'Tormented'), as Fortis. Meanwhile, inflation is rampant; the class divide is growing ever wider; the world is ripe for an action hero. Cue Timberlake. 'In Time' was supposed to turn Timberlake into a superhero, though given the way he manages a fairly massive pop career with an increasingly impressive acting portfolio ('Social Network' most recently), that may not be necessary. He brings an interesting sensibility to his characters, Will included, that suggest a complex interior that 'In Time' never quite reveals. The same goes for Seyfried ('Mamma Mia!,' 'Red Riding Hood'), who can do a lot more than use those big eyes and sleek lines." — Betsy Sharkey, Los Angeles Times
The Final Word, Pro-Con-Pro Style
"There's plenty to enjoy about that genre standard, which, with the help of the cinematographer Roger Deakins (shooting in digital), Mr. Niccol transforms into a neonoir gaudily washed in green and gold. There's a memorable night scene when Will and Sylvia sprint across a succession of roofs pursued by Raymond, the camera racing parallel with the couple, the exuberance of their freedom and flight palpable. Here, as in other scenes where Mr. Niccol let his images do the talking, the movie works, despite its wavering tone and slow-and-go energy. But then the characters open their mouths and start going on about minutes and hours, clocks and watches, and their time running out and not having enough time and where's my time, don't waste my time, that time will get you killed, brother can you spare some time because, well, I'm all out." — Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
"One problem with 'In Time' is that it's more fun to describe than to sit through. Another is that Niccol's direction of his cast is spotty at best. Timberlake has the steely visage and stubbled cheeks for a rogue hero, but Seyfried, always a watchable presence, has trouble connecting with Sylvia's inner rebellious streak or, for that matter, lending urgency to her line readings. The film's crucial failing, though, is that Niccol's imagination is vigorously literary but not thrillingly cinematic. The movie exhausts its capital about halfway through — devolving, as the Timekeeper tracks the lovers on the run, into a series of car chases and foot races, none of them very spiffily executed. If you're like me, you will be captivated by the first hour and, after that, impatiently checking your watch." — Richard Corliss, Time
"Even if 'In Time' descends from its gripping and thought-provoking premise into a mediocre chase thriller before it's over, it's still pretty damn satisfying to watch in the current climate. Of course the contradictions of capitalism are just as present in eras of widespread affluence as in eras of recession or stagnation, but we see them a hell of a lot more clearly at the moment. Niccol is dramatizing the human costs of the concentration of wealth, expressed by Philippe in the film with the formula that some must die so others can live forever. Somewhere Marx quips that capital is immortal even if its possessors are not; this movie's imaginative leap is to conflate the two and build a world where even death, the great leveler in human affairs, can be bought off." — Andrew O'Hehir, Salon.com
Check out everything we've got on "In Time."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Beyonce's Team Shoots Down Fake Baby-Bump Rumors
Publicist calls rumors 'stupid, ridiculous and false.'
By Gil Kaufman
Beyoncé in the "Countdown" video
Photo: Columbia
Beyoncé has had to deal with dozens of scurrilous, absurd and outlandish rumors over the course of her career. And like most stars, she has ignored the majority of them, responded to some and mostly just let the talkers talk. But after the Internet blew up earlier this week with rumors that the pregnant singer was sporting what some were calling a "fake" baby bump during a recent TV appearance, enough was enough.
Beyoncé's publicist, Yvette Noel-Schure, told ABC News on Tuesday that the allegations are "stupid, ridiculous and false." The rumors were sparked by an appearance Beyoncé made on Australia's "Sunday Night HD" in which her midsection seemed to deflate and fold over in an odd manner when she sat down for an interview while wearing a loose-fitting red dress.
It was during that appearance that Beyoncé — who revealed her pregnancy — at the 2011 VMAs confirmed that the child she is expecting with hubby Jay-Z is due in February. "I just feel like it's time and I'm very grateful that God has blessed me with the biggest gift any human can have," B said during the interview. "If there's any time, right now is the time, and I'm so happy."
Before the bump-troversy erupted, Beyoncé told Harper's Bazaar that she doesn't get worked up over gossip. "I am finally at the stage in my life where I am not so concerned with other people's opinions about my life decisions," she said. "It is really liberating to know what I want, to know what truly makes me happy."
And while the super-couple have always kept their private life off limits, the "Countdown" singer did reveal a bit about her relationship with Jigga in the November issue of the magazine.
"We took our time and developed an unbreakable friendship before we got married. ... But like anything great and successful in your life, marriage takes hard work and sacrifice," she said. "It has to be something both you and your husband deeply want. The best thing about marriage is the amount of growth you have because you can no longer hide from your insecurities. There's someone right there calling you out on your flaws and building you up when you need the support. If you are with the right person, it brings out the best version of you."
What do you think of B's "bump-troversy"? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
Related Photos Related Artists
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Usher - Lil Freak
- Artist: Usher
- Label: LaFace Records, JLG
- Director: Anthony Mandler
- Album: Raymond V. Raymond
Michael Jackson Overdose Re-Enacted In Court Video
Prosecution aimed to prove MJ's death could have been prevented if Dr. Conrad Murray had the proper equipment and staffing.
By Gil Kaufman
Steven Shafer
Photo: Pool/Getty Images
After five days of recess, the involuntary manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson doctor Conrad Murray resumed in a Los Angeles courtroom Wednesday (October 19) with the airing of a dramatic video showing an actor going into cardiac arrest and being revived following a propofol overdose.
The Witness
» Dr. Steven Shafer, anesthesiologist
Key Testimony
» After the trial was recessed for two days to allow Shafer to attend a conference -- which he did not make it to in light of his father's death -- the anesthesiologist, who emphasized the fact that his pro bono consultation on the case is motivated by his desire to restore faith in the public that propofol is not fatal when administered and monitored properly, completed his testimony from last week. Shafer, an expert on the surgical anesthetic propofol, narrated a video in which jurors watched an actor pretending to go into cardiac arrest while being administered propofol. The Los Angeles coroner's office determined that Jackson died of "acute propofol intoxication," which caused the singer to go into cardiac arrest.
» In the video, doctors and nurses successfully revive the patient using equipment and staffing that Murray did not have in Jackson's home. The dramatic re-enactment capped a case from the prosecution aimed at proving that Murray acted in a negligent, unprofessional manner in his treatment of Jackson.
» Murray lawyer Ed Chernoff argued vehemently against showing the video, calling it "a terrifying dramatization of a person experiencing cardiac arrest" that he said was intended to inflame the jurors' minds. Prosecutors countered that it was aimed at educating jurors about the safe way to administer propofol. A judge allowed the video but ordered Deputy District Attorney David Walgren to re-edit the video mid-morning to delete several scenes that he said were not relevant to the case.
» Over the course of the afternoon, the prosecution walked Shafer through his analysis of 17 major infractions -- what Shafer termed "egregious violations" -- in Murray's treatment of Jackson. Four of those violations were deemed "fundamentally unconscionable," such as Murray's failure to purchase and implement the proper medical monitoring devices and his failure to chart and document his treatment of Jackson, or keep any records. "It's a setup for disaster," Shafer said, adding that the violations were all contributing factors in Jackson's death.
Murray, who has pleaded not guilty to the felony charge of involuntary manslaughter, is facing four years in prison if convicted. But new sentencing laws in California meant to mandatorily reduce state prison overcrowding mean that, as a nonviolent offender with no prior record, he could be sentenced to county jail instead. If that is the case, his sentence could be reduced to two years and, because of overcrowding in the Los Angeles County jail, he may be allowed to serve the majority of his time under supervised house arrest.
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Ke$ha Celebrates National Coming Out Day
'We R Who We R' T-shirts support the Human Rights Campaign.
By Jocelyn Vena
Ke$ha's T-shirt design for National Coming Out Day
Photo: Ke$ha
Kesha has joined forces with the Human Rights Campaign to help celebrate National Coming Out Day on Tuesday (October 11).
The pop singer created a special message T-shirt, featuring a purple zebra, that proclaims "We R Who We R," the title of her hit anthem about individuality. The shirts sell for $35, with all proceeds supporting the HRC's work to achieve equality for the LGBT community.
According to the HRC website, only 1,000 shirts will be produced.
Others are also using the day to bring awareness to LGBT issues. Several notable celebrities will be honored by the Equality Forum, which is hosting an event and profiling notable LGBT members in pop culture.
As LGBT History Month rolls on throughout October, Ricky Martin, Wanda Sykes, "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy and Pedro Zamora, a former "The Real World" castmember turned AIDS activist, all will be profiled by the organization.
"We're the only minority worldwide that's not taught history at home, in school or religious institutions," said Malcolm Lazin, Equality Forum's founder and executive director. "Like every group that's been marginalized, it really helps to make the case why we should take real pride in ourselves and our community."
Since launching the program five years ago, over 200 icons have been profiled, including Jane Lynch, Lady Gaga and Neil Patrick Harris. Lazin called LGBT month "empowering and life affirming."
The message comes amid increased awareness about young people being bullied, including MTV's A Thin Line campaign. The MTV film "DISconnected," which premiered Monday night, focuses on issues in a world where technology controls personal lives.
"I see the viciousness of people every day," said "Jersey Shore" star Vinny Guadagnino on the "DISconnected" after show. "I kind of want to be a soldier in the field, so to speak, and try to combat the negativity with a positive message. I want to help open people's eyes up, like this movie does, to the negativity."
Check out the Facebook page for "DISconnected."
Related Videos Related ArtistsKe$ha, Adam Lambert, Ne-Yo Have A Few Royal Wedding Gift Ideas
From 'guyliner' to American delicacies like Uncrustables, Kathy Griffin, Mike Posner and more tell us what they'd get Will and Kate.
By Terri Schwartz
Kate Middleton and Prince William
Photo: Ben Stansall/ Getty Images
What kind of wedding gift do you give the royal couple who has everything?
The wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton is on Friday (April 29), so MTV News reached out to some of our favorite Hollywood celebrities — from Ke$ha to Adam Lambert. Fortunately, they had some solid ideas!
"I haven't met them, so it would be kind of awkward," the "Tik Tok" singer admitted to MTV News. "I might paint them something. Maybe I'll paint them a guitar."
Like Ke$ha, other celebs had suggestions that were from the heart, even if they weren't the most practical.
"I will go out on a limb and say these two individuals maybe haven't had Uncrustables before in their life. I would get them a strawberry Uncrustable," Mike Posner said about the pastry.
David Cook followed up on the all-American food idea. "I feel like they have everything except maybe they probably don't have an Applebee's gift card. I'll go [with an] Applebee's gift card," the "American Idol" alum said.
Other stars said they'd gift the British prince and soon-to-be-princess with an item they were personally best known for.
"I'd probably buy William some eyeliner," Lambert said. "He could do that, he could rock that look. I think."
Ne-Yo was more empathetic, saying he would give gifts that could help shield them from photographers and blend in with everyday people. "Three years' supply of sunglasses. Yeah, put them on. A bunch of baseball caps, throw those on, and try to move around like regular people," the singer said. "I can't imagine what it would be like having to live under that big of a magnifying glass your whole life ... and fake mustaches, that's what I'd give them."
Brooke Burke went the more traditional route, saying she would get Will and Kate a journal to record the big event. "I would ask them to really take the time to write down thoughts and phrases and wishes," Burke said. "And not really to lose sight of how they feel about each other now and to really hold on to that feeling."
Kathy Griffin had good intentions but the comedian couldn't resist a puke joke.
"If I had to get the royal couple a gift, I would get them the Royal Couple Vomit Bag, which someone sent me a photo of," Griffin told us. "So you can actually buy vomit bags with their image on it, and I think that that is an honor and I hope that they see it as such."
What would you give to William and Kate? Share your ideas in the comments section!
Related Photos Related ArtistsDimmu Borgir Release Live DVD; Plus Led Zeppelin, Brujeria, & More News That Rules, In Metal File
'It shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums,' guitarist says.
By Chris Harris
Dimmu Borgir's Silenoz
Photo: Nuclear Blast
On October 14, Dimmu Borgir — who just happen to be Demi Lovato's favorite black-metal band — will release a a three-disc DVD/CD set called "The Invaluable Darkness," the band's first visual offering since 2002's "World Misanthropy." Boasting live footage shot last year, during gigs in Norway, Germany and England, "The Invaluable Darkness" demonstrates the unbridled furor of seeing Dimmu live, guitarist Silenoz said.
"It shows the honest rawness and atmospheric darkness of our concerts," the Norwegian told Metal File last week, after dismissing recent online rumors that his band's next LP would be coming out through Roadrunner Records. "Basically, it shows the intense live side of the band, as opposed to the perfection and the cleanness of how we sound on our albums. It's just a different side to the band, basically."
Dimmu Borgir began thinking about "The Invaluable Darkness" two years ago, but didn't start capturing footage until last summer, Silenoz explained, adding that the band will use its current stint on the Blackest of the Black Tour — which got underway Thursday night in Miami Beach, Florida, and also features the tour's founder, Danzig, along with Moonspell, Winds of Plague and Skeletonwitch — to promote the DVD. Dimmu Borgir will not, however, use the tour to write material for their next LP.
"It's our first time on Blackest, but Glenn [Danzig] had wanted to bring us out before [on the tour], but we weren't available until now," Silenoz said. "We've done Ozzfest before, but we're looking forward to this tour more. We did the main stage on Ozzfest, playing in f--_ing broad daylight. This tour will let us play in bigger places, but at the same time showcase more of what the band's about, visually. We are going to concentrate on the tour for now. Some years ago, we tried putting [material] together on the road, but once we got home, we listened back to it, and were like, 'What the f--- is this?' So, we just scrapped it all. We find it's so much better to totally focus on one thing at a time, and then, when that's over, you move on to the next [thing]. We don't really feel like we need to rush things, anyway, so we'll just take our time, and it's going to be what it's going to be."
Dimmu Borgir hope to reconvene in late December to begin writing the follow-up to 2007's diabolically titled In Sorte Diaboli. "We have some ideas floating around already, but we haven't arranged any material yet," he said. "We'll start doing that once the touring for this DVD is over." The band's frontman, Shagrath, is also due to marry soon — he's engaged to actor Nicolas Cage's ex-girlfriend, Christina Fulton, so that may have an effect on when Dimmu finish their next album, which Silenoz said could be out this coming spring.
"I'm sure [Shagrath] won't let anything get in the way [of] the band — I think, I hope," the guitarist said. "We don't need a Yoko [Ono] situation."
While Dimmu have been at it going on 15 years now, Silenoz said he doesn't think their forthcoming material will be much of a departure from their previous black-metal offerings.
"And we have always been about more than just that term, 'black metal,' " he said. "Luckily for us, the older you get, the less concerned you get with the categorization and putting labels on your music. Things start getting more and more limitless with us, and we know that we operate within certain frames. But we try not to analyze things too much, because it's just going to be working against you in the end. When we write new stuff, we don't think about what we should write — we just get together, and put material together, and if we like it, we keep it. That's the formula, if we even have a formula."
Dimmu Borgir are definitely getting older — guitarist Galder will be missing Blackest because of a recent addition to his family, and Susperia's Cyrus will be filling in for him; while former Vader drummer Dariusz Brzozowski takes over for Hellhammer, who had to leave the band in 2007 after sustaining a neck injury that's now limited the use of his right arm. As Dimmu has gotten on in years, Silenoz admits they have failed to keep pace with some of the more extreme black-metal acts that have followed in their wake.
"We helped open doors for the more extreme bands out there," Silenoz said. "I'm sure we helped open doors for bands like Watain, [insomuch as] people that had maybe started listening to us first then went on to the more extreme stuff. Let's face it — we're not as extreme as Watain and other bands like that, but we're fine with that."
The Blackest of the Black Tour continues through November 10 in San Francisco.
The rest of the week's metal news:
Dimmu's tourmates on Blackest, Winds of Plague, have announced ex-Azusa drummer Art Cruz has joined their ranks — he replaced Jeff Tenney. According to the band's blog, "Art has already added a new spark to the band and has provided us with a solid backbone that will allow us to continue our rampage stronger than ever." ...
What the world really needs is another Led Zeppelin box set, so, on November 4, Rhino Records will issue the Led Zeppelin Definitive Collection Mini LP Replica CD box set. For just $200, you'll get 1969's Led Zeppelin, 1969's Led Zeppelin II, 1970's Led Zeppelin III, 1971's Led Zeppelin IV, 1973's Houses of the Holy, 1975's Physical Graffiti, 1976's Presence, 1976's The Song Remains the Same, 1979's In Through the Out Door and 1982's Coda, as mini-LP replicas, with artwork from the original U.K. LP sleeves. Now, you know what you can get your dad for Christmas. ...
Former Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach and current Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz have teamed up for a new project they're calling Times of Grace, and they've already started working on material for their debut album. According to Leach, "We have two songs to go and we will be finished with all of the vocals. Adam has taken lead vocals in three songs as of yet and he is doing a great job. We also worked on a track yesterday that is so epic — we trade vocals and do two different melodies at the same time. This album went from a melodic metal album to an epic mix of metal/rock/pop/shoegaze and punk. So all of your metal expectations will be incorrect — we are pushing genre boundaries." To quote "Meet the Parents," we'll look forward to that, Greg. ...
The Funeral Pyre and Early Graves will be hitting the road together next month, starting November 7 in South Lake Tahoe, California. Dates are booked through November 21 in Hollywood. ...
The latest incarnation of Brujeria, which features Carcass frontman Jeff Walker and Napalm Death's Shane Embury, have lined up several U.S. dates for this winter. The band will begin its brief trek November 28 in Denver, and wrap things up in Dallas on December 7. ... Demiricous will be touring with the Gates of Slumber starting November 9 in Denver, for a jaunt that's scheduled to run through December 6 in Indianapolis. ...
Nearly three years after Roadrunner Records' Roadrunner United concert, which took over the Nokia Theater in New York's Times Square, the label is now releasing footage from that special night as "Roadrunner United: The Concert." The DVD, which hits stores December 9, will boast two discs and 24 live tracks, including Life of Agony's "River Runs Red," King Diamond's "Abigail," Killswitch's "My Last Serenade," Type O Negative's "Black No. 1" and Sepultura's "Refuse/Resist." ...
According to Blabbermouth, Verrot, bassist for Swedish black-metal outfit Elimi, committed suicide on October 3. In a statement, the band said, "Verrot was a very good friend, brother, an excellent bass player/musician and an important part of Elimi; we respect his decision and hope he'll find his way with the dark gods of Chaos. Let your black flame be a part of what brings forth the day of wrath."
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R.E.M. Enlist Kirsten Dunst For Video
Actress stars in clip for band's final single, 'We All Go Back to Where We Belong.'
By Jocelyn Vena
Kirsten Dunst in R.E.M.'s video for "We All Go Back To Where We Belong"
Photo: Warner Bros.
R.E.M.'s two videos for "We All Go Back to Where We Belong" are quiet and simple. The black-and-white clips were directed by Michael Stipe and Dominic DeJoseph; one features "Melancholia" actress Kirsten Dunst and the other, poet/artist/activist John Giorno.
Dunst's version plays like a Warhol Factory screen test. She stands in a simple flower-print dress in front of a white wall as her expression changes from happy to sad, mimicking the melancholy and longing of the track. The second version is similar, but Giorno's expression changes less frequently. In fact, he looks pretty emotionless for much of the clip, only cracking a smile on occasion.
In a statement on their website, Stipe says the videos have "gravity and beauty." He continued, "To be able to work with John and Kirsten was a dream I carried since we recorded the song, and their participation completes the song for me."
The band's final album, Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage, is out November 15. This song serves as the band's last single. It's one of three new tracks on the album, which also features songs spanning their 30-year history. Some tracks that made the final cut include "Everybody Hurts," "Electrolite," "Nightswimming" and "Imitation of Life," to name a few.
R.E.M. announced their split in late September on their website, prompting fans to mourn the loss of the iconic trio. "To our Fans and Friends: As R.E.M., and as lifelong friends and co-conspirators, we have decided to call it a day as a band," their statement read. "We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished. To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening."
What do you think of the R.E.M. videos? Tell us in the comments!
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Friday, October 28, 2011
Beavis And Butt-Head 'Taking Shots' At Reality Shows, Mike Judge Promises
Duo return to MTV with new episodes tonight.
By Kevin P. Sullivan
Beavis and Butt-Head
Photo: MTV
It's been almost 14 years since the slackest slackers of a generation, Beavis and Butt-head, filled the airwaves with their shenanigans, but when the duo return to television with new episodes Thursday (October 27), the MTV they return to is quite a different one.
Creator Mike Judge had to address the changes to the channel when deciding which direction to take the show in. Without music videos playing as regularly on MTV, there is less of an opportunity for Beavis and Butt-head to sit around and comment on them as they did during the show's original run. Reality shows like "Jersey Shore" and "16 and Pregnant" have replaced what were formerly blocks of music videos, and Judge said he wanted the new "Beavis and Butt-head" episodes to reflect that shift.
According to Judge, MTV reality shows comprise 60 percent of the content Beavis and Butt-head sit and watch now. The transition from music videos to reality programming has been an easy one for Judge. "I think it is easier taking shots at the reality shows than music videos," Judge said.
But Beavis and Butt-head didn't just make fun of the videos they watched. "In the beginning of the first run, I did a lot of what I would call taking shots at the videos," Judge said. "But then a lot of times I would just have them talk about whatever, and it didn't necessarily have that much to do about saying anything one way or another about the video."
Reality TV, on the other hand, is a different story. Judge has found that with the new crop of shows, the material is too ripe for ridicule to ignore. "With the reality shows, it just feels like pay dirt to me," Judge said. "Those shows have just been really fun to have Beavis and Butt-head watch."
Don't miss "Beavis and Butt-head" when it returns to TV Thursday at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
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- Artist: Usher
- Label: LaFace Records, JLG
- Director: Anthony Mandler
- Album: Raymond V. Raymond
Usher Says New 'Rev Pop' Project Is A 'Movement'
Singer teases his new project by pointing to past hits like 'Yeah!' and 'OMG.'
By James Montgomery
Usher
Photo: MTV News
With the success of songs like "DJ Got Us Fallin' in Love," "Hot Tottie" and "OMG," Usher had himself a fairly massive 2010. But rather than rest on his laurels, he's looking to build on his big year, not with an album, but with a "movement."
It's something he's calling "Rev Pop" — or, simply, "Rev" — and though he's already teased his idea in a video with David Guetta (Akon is also involved), he has yet to speak in full about it. So when MTV News caught up with Ush before the 53rd annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles at the (Belvedere) RED launch party, we asked him about his next musical endeavor. And though he didn't reveal much, he did let it be known that "Rev" isn't exactly something new. In fact, he's been doing it for a while now.
"I'll give it to you this way: At a later date, I'll tell you more about Rev Pop, but if I were to give you a flash: I've done it before, I did it with 'Yeah!' " he said, "taking a cultural experience, and also worldwide recognition of a feeling, and putting the soul in the middle of it. Not allowing it to shift heavily to R&B genre, or pop. I did it again with 'OMG,' once again putting the soul in the middle of it, which was an electric-pop experience, with the soul.
"It's bringing those elements together to tell a story, that was born here," he said, gesturing toward his heart, "And that's what Rev Pop is. There's more, I mean, I could really elaborate, but that's just what I'm going to tell you right now. 'Rev' is what it's called ... the movement is called Rev."
Usher wouldn't say just when his fans would be getting their first taste of Rev, but whenever they do, it sounds like they're going to be impressed ... if not a little shocked.
"Stay alive," he smiled, "Because you're definitely going to be in for a surprise."
Related ArtistsBritney Spears, Nicki Minaj And Ke$ha 'Till The World Ends' Remix Leaks
Reworked tune features an opening verse by Minaj as Ke$ha sings atop Spears' vocals throughout the song.
By James Dinh
Britney Spears' "Til The World Ends"
Photo: Jive
Britney Spears isn't the only pop titan dancing until the world ends: Nicki Minaj and Ke$ha have joined forces to add a new spin on an all-female remix of Femme Fatale's second single, "Till the World Ends."
The reworked dance anthem, which leaked online Friday (April 22), appears to have surfaced earlier than expected as noted by a series of countdowns on all three of the stars' websites.
Mixing the dance tune's original sonic swirls with heavier bass, Britney tourmate Minaj starts off the remix by throwing down an aggressive verse, in which she calls out a female hater: "A-A-A-A-A-AYE!/ Chimpanzees is hatin', but I take it all in stride/ Put her in a jungle with bananas on the side/ Told you they'd revive your career, but somebody lied/ I ain't talkin' poultry when I say this chicken's fried."
After Minaj spits a few introductory bars, Spears delivers the song's first verse before an introduction for the all-star trio. "It's Britney, bitch. I'm Nicki Minaj and that's Ke$ha!" the Young Money MC proclaims.
Ke$ha, who originally wrote the track for the pop princess, takes part in singing the club-ready track's chorus. Spears soon takes back control of the song as Ke$ha shadows the singer's lines toward the end of the second verse and bridge. Unlike the original version, the "Till the World Ends" remix also features a stuttering dubstep dance break.
News of a star-studded collaboration was hinted earlier this week when producer Dr. Luke tweeted, "@NICKIMINAJ killed it tonight!!!! thanks!!!"
Have you heard the all-star "Till The World Ends" remix? Share your reviews in the comments!
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- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia, Parkwood
- Director: Beyoncé / Adria Petty
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Thursday, October 27, 2011
Taylor Swift, Rihanna Dress To Impress At Billboard Awards
Nicki Minaj, Ke$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.
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Beyonce's 'Countdown' Video Shoot Was 'Evolving, Spontaneous'
'I love the creative team that works with Beyonce because they can roll with anything,' video director Adria Petty says.
By Jocelyn Vena
Beyonce in her video for "Countdown"
Photo: Columbia
Beyoncé's "Countdown" video plays up the singer's theatrical side. It pays homage to iconic films like "West Side Story" and "Funny Face," as well as '60s icons like the Supremes and Audrey Hepburn. The clip, co-directed by Adria Petty, is an eye-catching glimpse at the pop culture moments that reside in the creative conscience of the pop star.
While a lot of the video displays the singer's personality and spunk, as well as her ever-expanding baby bump, it's clear that Petty and her team worked hard to make sure they captured the spirit of the milestones they re-created in the video.
"I brought Beyoncé a number of references and we picked some out together. Most were German modern-dance references, believe it or not. But it really evolved," she told MTV News, calling it "an evolving, spontaneous process."
Check out what we spotted, and let us know what we missed!
"The references were then dispersed to her creative team (hair, makeup, wardrobe), and they interpreted them on the set in their own special way. Of course, one of the strongest wardrobe references was Audrey Hepburn in 'Funny Face' when she does the beatnik dance scene. I think a lot grew from there," Petty continued.
Shot over the last few months in New York City warehouses, the shoot was all about being able to squeeze in all of her work commitments while also trying to finish the elaborately set video.
What do Queen B's fans have to say about that "Countdown" baby bump?
"The shoot was great. We had a number of brilliant dancers and musicians and a top-notch crew. Beyoncé brings in a number of her own people who are so hardworking. Our video was the fourth they had shot in five days," Petty said. "I love the creative team that works with Beyoncé because they can roll with anything and keep smiling. Everyone was really upbeat and excited because we all love the track and the opportunity to work with Beyoncé so much."
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Beavis And Butt-Head 'Taking Shots' At Reality Shows, Mike Judge Promises
Duo return to MTV with new episodes tonight.
By Kevin P. Sullivan
Beavis and Butt-Head
Photo: MTV
It's been almost 14 years since the slackest slackers of a generation, Beavis and Butt-head, filled the airwaves with their shenanigans, but when the duo return to television with new episodes Thursday (October 27), the MTV they return to is quite a different one.
Creator Mike Judge had to address the changes to the channel when deciding which direction to take the show in. Without music videos playing as regularly on MTV, there is less of an opportunity for Beavis and Butt-head to sit around and comment on them as they did during the show's original run. Reality shows like "Jersey Shore" and "16 and Pregnant" have replaced what were formerly blocks of music videos, and Judge said he wanted the new "Beavis and Butt-head" episodes to reflect that shift.
According to Judge, MTV reality shows comprise 60 percent of the content Beavis and Butt-head sit and watch now. The transition from music videos to reality programming has been an easy one for Judge. "I think it is easier taking shots at the reality shows than music videos," Judge said.
But Beavis and Butt-head didn't just make fun of the videos they watched. "In the beginning of the first run, I did a lot of what I would call taking shots at the videos," Judge said. "But then a lot of times I would just have them talk about whatever, and it didn't necessarily have that much to do about saying anything one way or another about the video."
Reality TV, on the other hand, is a different story. Judge has found that with the new crop of shows, the material is too ripe for ridicule to ignore. "With the reality shows, it just feels like pay dirt to me," Judge said. "Those shows have just been really fun to have Beavis and Butt-head watch."
Don't miss "Beavis and Butt-head" when it returns to TV Thursday at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
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Michael Jackson - Hollywood Tonight
- Artist: Michael Jackson
- Label: Epic
- Director: Wayne Isham
- Album: Michael
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