Britney Tweets About New Album
Britney Spears recently went to Twitter to announce the title of her upcoming album, “Femme Fatale”. She wrote, “I’ve poured my heart and soul into this album over the last 2 years. I’ve put everything I have into it. This album is for you, my fans, who have always supported me and have stuck by me every step of the way! I love you all!” Jive Records will release Femme Fatale on March 15.
Mariah Reveals Twins' Gender
Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon recently learned the gender of their twins. They’re having a daughter and a son. When she announced the pregnancy in December, Mariah said the babies were due “in the spring.” She’s now designing nurseries at their homes in New York and Los Angeles.
Bieber Fans Prepare for 3D Movie, Soundtrack Release
Justin Bieber’s 3D biopic, Never Say Never, will open in U.S. theaters on February 11. In it, the 16-year-old superstar mixes performances with the story of his rise to fame. The movie’s soundtrack, coming out on February 14, includes one new song. “Born To Be Somebody” was composed by hitmaker Diane Warren.
Aguilera, Black Eyed Peas Perform at Superbowl
Superbowl XLV was be played in Arlington, Texas on February 6. The Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Green Bay Packers in the NFL championship game. Prior to kickoff, Christina Aguilera sang the National Anthem. This year’s half-time show featured the Black Eyed Peas. Usher and Guns ‘N Roses guitarist Slash made surprise appearances with the Black Eyed Peas.
Lopez Attends White House Superbowl Party
The White House hosted a Super Bowl party, Sunday. A spokesperson said the guest list of nearly 100 people included White House staff, members of Congress, family and friends. Singer and new American Idol judge Jennifer Lopez and husband Marc Anthony were also invited.
Idol Anniversary Album to Feature Finalists
American Idol is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an upcoming album featuring 12 of the show’s finalists. American Idol 10th Anniversary - The Hits” includes tracks by Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry, Lee DeWyze, Fantasia, Adam Lambert, and others. The compilation will be released on March 15.
New Album Releases February 8:
”Now That’s What I Call Music! 37” by various artists
“Pomp & Pout: The Universal Years” by Elvis Costello
“Truth of Touch” by Yanni
“Thompson Square” by Thompson Square
“Otra vez” by Jon Secada
“I Feel You” by Herb Alpert & Lani Hall
“Tell Me” by Jessica Lee Mayfield
Musical Events / Festivals / Benefits:
On February 11, the MusiCares Foundation will honor Barbra Streisand as its 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year. Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the MusiCares Foundation and The Recording Academy said, “Barbra Streisand is a genuine Renaissance woman, someone for whom artistry and philanthropy go hand in hand. The enormous talent, passion and dedication she brings to her creative projects - whether film, television or music - are matched by the generosity and commitment she devotes to her charitable causes. It is fitting to celebrate the incredible legacy of Barbra at our 21st Annual MusiCares Person of the Year tribute.” Tony Bennett, Donna Summer, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Barry Manilow and Diana Krall are among the artists scheduled to perform at the event.
Awards Presentations / Winners:
On February 12, Dolly Parton, Roy Haynes, the Ramones, Julie Andrews, the Kingston Trio, the Juilliard String Quartet and George Beverly Shea will receive Lifetime Grammy Awards. All have previously won competitive Grammys, except the Ramones.
Miranda Lambert leads the contenders for the 46th annual Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. Her seven nominations include Top Female Vocalist, Album of the Year for “Revolution,” Single Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Video of the Year for “The House That Built Me,” Video of the Year for “Only Prettier” and Entertainer of the Year. Other top nominees include Kenny Chesney, the Zac Brown Band and The Band Perry. Reba McEntire and Blake Shelton will co-host the 2011 ACM Awards live from Las Vegas on April 3.
Look Who's Going on Tour!
On February 9, Bon Jovi will kick off its 2011 North American tour in University Park, Pennsylvania. The rock band had the top-grossing tour of 2010 by playing to 1.5 million fans and earning $146.5 million. Bon Jovi recently announced that they’ll be taking a long break from the road after wrapping up their European shows on July 31. Drummer Tico Torres told Rolling Stone magazine, “Sometimes you need to get away so people can appreciate you better. The best thing I can tell you is we’re gonna need a couple of years off for sure.”
Superstar Taylor Swift begins her "Speak Now" world tour on February 9 in Singapore. Asian dates run through February 21. Swift will head to Europe to perform 12 shows from March 6-30. She’ll launch the North American leg on April 23 in Los Angeles. More than 80 shows in 19 countries are planned for the entire tour.