Music News

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NO LOVE FOR IRON MAIDEN

This Saturday on the last Ozzfest performance, Iron Maiden had a welcome they’ll never forget. As the British band was taking the stage, fans in the crowd began to cheer "Ozzy, Ozzy, Ozzy" and followed up with pelting eggs, bottle caps, and ice at the band. The band carried on, scrambled eggs and all, only to have the P.A. system shut off on them. Lead singer, Bruce Dickinson stated that he believed it was all premeditated, questioning how people got passed security with eggs. Sharon Osborne took the stage shortly after stating that she, "loved Iron Maiden", but that Dickinson was a "prick." I know I’m as floored as you. Eggs? At Ozzfest? Thats the best you guys could do? What ever happened to blood and biting off bats heads, human feces, etc.? What has happened to the world?

SHOCK OF THE DAY

Courtney Love has been ordered by a judge to attend a 28-day drug rehab facility for violating terms of probation. Who the hell let Courtney Love out of rehab in the first place? Her poor kid, I mean her name is Bean for Christ sake, and her mom is a wack job. Good luck in rehab Courtney, hope it works out for ya this time.

EMINEM DROPS EUROPE

Eminem has canceled his European tour because he is undergoing treatment for dependency on sleep medication, and exhaustion. Yeah, I remember when I was on tour last year, riding on a bus all day, getting VIP treatment, having people do my laundry, prepare my food, drive me around, it was tough. Em,we all feel so sorry for you,we really do we have no concept of how tired you must be, I mean cause most people have two jobs and work over 40 hours a week and don’t have people at their beckon call, sorry buddy.

CHESTER GOES SOLO

Linkin Park front man Chester Bennington is about to debut his solo career. Bennington says that his new music is "90’s rock, mixed with 80’s pop like Depeche Mode, the Cure, and Bauhaus and mixed together." No release date has been set. I think he’s going to try and fit a couple more decades in the mix first.

CONAN QUOTABLES

"Michael Jackson and his ex-wife Debbie Rowe have reportedly worked out a deal for visitation rights. Under the deal, Rowe will see their kids twice a week and Michael will see other kids 3 times a week."

"Next month, a cell phone company is going to start selling a mobile phone that resembles the communicators featured on 'Star Trek'. 'Star Trek fans are really excited because for an extra $1000 the phone comes with a girl's phone number. "

"The drunk Yankee fan who jumped out of the upper deck into the net behind home plate may be sent to jail for a year. Even worse, he could be sentenced to a year of Mets games."

"Yesterday, Baltimore slugger Rafael Palmiero tested the positive for steroids a few months after telling congress, 'I never took steroids, period.' Then today, Palmiero said, 'I mean to say 'I never took steroids, question mark.'"

"A light saver used in the original 'Star Wars' was bought for $200,000 at a recent auction. The buyer wishes to remain anonymous and a virgin."

JACKSON THROWS A PARTY

Michael Jackson is planning an invitation-only party for fans who have supported him throughout the trial. In case you weren’t on the planet lately, Jackson was found not guilty of all 11 million charges. The party will be held at The Chumash Casino in Santa Yez, California. Apparently, Chuckee Cheese’s was booked through the summer.

SPIN MAGAZINE NAMES TOP ALBUMS

In celebration of their 20th Anniversary, SPIN magazine has made a list of the best albums of the past 20 years. Radiohead’s "Ok Computer" came in at number one. Also on the list are Public Enemy’s "It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back", Nirvana’s "Nevermind", and The Smith’s "The Queen is Dead". Look for the 20th Anniversary issue currently on newsstands.

KARL MUELLER PASSED FRIDAY

Karl Mueller, bassist and founding member of the Minneapolis rock band Soul Asylum died this passed Friday at the age of 41 due to throat cancer. Soul Asylum was known for their hit "Runaway Train".

DESTINY NO MORE

Destiny’s Child has announced that they will split for good at the end of their "Destiny Fulfilled Tour". The young ladies have sold over 40 million albums will together. "After all these wonderful years working together, we realized that now is the time to pursue our personal goals and solo efforts in earnest."

CONAN QUOTABLES

I love Late Night with Conan O’Brien. And if you don’t watch the show, well you’re missing out. I figured everyone needs a good laugh during the day, and he usually does it for me. So here’s a new addition to the Music News, quotes from Conan, hope you laugh.

"In Illinois, a man wearing a Darth Vader mask robbed a movie theater. Police said they could tell he was a ‘Star Wars’ fan because after the hold up he jumped into his parents getaway car."

"This week President Bush was spotted carrying around a book that he says he started reading four months ago. Apparently he still hasn’t found Waldo."

"The latest rumor in Hollywood is that actress Jennifer Garner is pregnant with Ben Affleck’s baby. Which means Ben Affleck finally had a successful release."

BANDS ON TOUR

Teaming up this summer are some bands you won’t want to miss. Chevelle kicks off their tour with Taproot, and 30 Seconds to Mars July 9th in Indianapolis. For more information on Chevelle, click HERE 311 will be releasing Don’t Tread On Me their latest album in August, and will start their tour with Papa Roach, and Unwritten Law soon after. For more on 311 click HERE

MOTION CITY SOUNDTRACK

CD’S TO GET THIS MONTH

Don’t be a snob and act like you only listen to one genre of music, embrace it all... 1) Coldplay, X&Y(I don’t see how this wouldn’t be a personal and beautiful album.)
2) White Stripes, Get Behind Me Satan(Personally, I think Jack White is a genius so just get it.)
3) Black Eyed Peas, Monkey Business(Some days you gotta dance, no one is better to dance to then these guys.)
4) Foo Fighters, In Your Honor(Dave Grohl Rocks. That’s all I have to say.)
5) Shakira, Fijacion Oral (You may remember her English album Laundry Service, and you were probably disappointed, trust me as an old Shakira fan, the Spanish albums are better.)

READ THIS BEFORE YOU SEE BATMAN BEGINS

So you’ve seen Christian Bale, right? He’s the latest Batman and he’s absolutely gorgeous. If you don’t know who he is, you will beacuse within a week everyone will be claiming their love for this guy. Now before all you kids get all excited about your latest boyfriend,why don't you learn a little bit about him. As a longtime fan, I am excited, yet sad at the same time that someone I love so dear and who is so talented is about to be the heartthrob of every woman in America. (In music terms, think about how you feel when your favorite indie band gets signed to Columbia, yeah.) Please respect the old work of Christian Bale, you too boys. Ever see a little movie called American Psycho? Or ladies, you’ve seen Little Women right? Anyone ever hear of a little movie called Swing Kids? I’m not saying you’re not allowed to love him, just love all of him, and don’t just know him as Batman. Thanks.

CHECK THESE GUYS OUT

We all like to take credit for bands that rock. The fact that we’ve been following them since their garage days makes us feel superior to the new fans. Well here’s a band I wish I could take credit for, but instead I will just spread the good word. They call themselves The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and they are about to be the new hotness. I was just minding my own business the other day, when Denis, a co-worker of mine, and one of the band members fathers dropped their CD on my desk. Needless to say, it rocks. Red Jumpsuit will be playing all of the Florida Warped Tour dates so see them live if you can. A major label has their eyes on these guys, so learn to love them beforethe rest of the crowd. Log on to www.redjumpsuit.com for the complete 411 on the guys.

"SATANISMS FUN."

Fun isn't the first word that comes to mind, but can't knock it cause I haven't tried it. Alkaline Trios front man Matt Skiba has recently commented on the bands recent religious views. The longtime member of Anton Loveys Church of Satan says, “We don’t hate Jesus at all, we just think religion is silly, we definitely like ruffling peoples feathers and poking fun at organized religion." Stated like a true punk rocker. Their 6th album Crimson is in stores now.

THE VINES BACK IN THE STUDIO

Australian rockers The Vines recently started recording their next album in Sydney. Front man Craig Nicholls who suffers from neurobiological disorder, is said to be in better health. For more info on the band, log onto www.thevines.com

MTV MOVIE AWARDS

Want to have a say in who wins this year? Click HERE to vote.

CARRIE UNDERWOOD NEW IDOL

After a dragged out season finale, 22 year old, Oklahoma native, Carrie Underwood was crowned the 4th American Idol. Her first single, “Inside Your Heaven” will be released June 14th. Underwood is the first country singer to be crowned American Idol.

THINGS THEY SHOULDN’T TEASE ME ABOUT

The Fugees- Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, and Pras are plotting their 1st album since 1996’s The Score. After 8 years apart the three have put the past behind them and are ready to work together again. After the much success of Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean, a Fugees reunion seemed unrealistic,but then the clouds parted and Jesus said,"Let there be another Fugees album." Just kidding Matt, sometimes us organized religious people like to make jokes.

TRANSPLANTS NEW ALBUM

What started as a side project for Blink drummer Travis Barker, and Rancid Front Man Tim Armstrong, is now a top priority for them. The bands second album, Haunted Cities will hit stores June 21st. The first single, "Gangsters & Thugs" promises to have the mix of metal, punk, rap, and techno, sounds that only these guys can deliver. The Transplants will be headlining this years Warped Tour kicking off June 14th. Click HERE for more Warped Tour info.

CAN YOU HANDLE BRITNEY’S TRUTH?

Yeah, I’m sure you can, but can you handle seeing her without make-up? Probably not."Britney and Kevin: Chaotic" premieres tonight on UPN at 9p.m. As if Nick and Jessica weren’t enough, Mrs. Federline and hubby have decided to let us into their lives, hooray for us! This reality show is shot by the newlyweds during their time together last spring on Britney’s Onyx Hotel tour. Don’t get me wrong, love the girl to death, but what’s with celebrities hating being on camera, and paparazzi and crying about being in their space, and then they go make a reality show? As her ex would say, cry me a river.

DAVE CHAPELLE, NOT CRAZY

Contrary to popular belief, your favorite Comedy Central funny man Dave Chapelle claims, he’s definitely not crazy, and not smoking crack. After reports of the “funniest man alive” checking himself into a mental institution in South Africa due to being stressed about his upcoming season, banking him a cool $50 million. Dang. He admitted to being stressed out and claimed that the trip to Africa was more of a spiritual retreat.Must be nice to be stressed at work and go on a spiritual retreat.I would know nothing about how spiritual retreats work.The closest thing I have to a spiritual retreat is calling in sick getting my nails done for $19.99 and going out to dinner at Chili's. Must be nice.

50 CENT AVOIDS JAIL TIME? NO WAY!

I won’t believe it for a second. It’s unheard of! A superstar thug turned rapper gets off the hook? Madness! Well believe it, 50 Cent will avoid jail time for allegedly trampling two women and punching another at a concert last year. And to think, I thought he treated his ho’s with respect. Did anyone know that his real name is Curtis Jackson, that made me laugh. Curtis Jackson (ha ha) now has to stay drug free for the next two years as part of the agreement for the charges being dropped. The incident occurred last May after someone squirted water on him. Oh Curtis, now I understand, how dare someone squirt water on you, poor baby.

YOUR FAVORITE BANDS ON LATE NIGHT

Check-out these bands this week on the late night circuit.
Audioslave, Wednesday on Jimmy Kimmel Live (ABC)
Hot Hot Heat, Thursday on The Late Show with Davis Letterman (CBS)
Interpol, Friday on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (NBC)
Mudvayne, Friday on Late Night With Conan O’Brien (NBC)

FUN PEOPLE ARE COMING TO TOWN!

Local Venues have some excellent shows coming this way. Here are a few I suggest you save a date for.
The Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater presents:
1)June 29th…Zooma Tour featuring Trey Anastasio, and Ben Harper (what can I say, Trey takes me back to my Phish listening college days)
2)August 5th…VH1 Classic and Checkered Flag present Earth Wind and Fire (I am so amped on this concert so don’t laugh)
3)August 9th…Vans Warped Tour (This will be my 3rd Warped Tour, can’t beat the line-up)
4)September 29th… Coldplay (One of the bands you just have to see)
For more concert info at The Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater click here
The NorVA presents:
1)May 17th…B.B. King (I know it’s last minute, but come out and see the blues legend do his thing)
2)May 19th, and 20th…The Black Crowes “15 Years of Cosmic Rock-n Roll” (this show will be recorded and be available for purchase immediately following the show)
For more concert info at The NorVA, click here

STEVIE WONDER TEAMS WITH BUSTA RHYMES

Odd couple, right? This pairing is actually the outcome of the first descriptive music video think of it as closed captioning for the blind. Stevie Wonders latest video, "So What the Fuss" is the first single off his latest album A Time to Love due June 14th. Busta serves as the video music video version of a sports commentator, mixed with a delivery only Busta Rhymes could give.

GREEN DAY + JIMMY=CONCERTS WORTH DRIVING TO

Green Day has extended its tour with band Jimmy Eat World to open. The two will tour beginning Aug. 10th through Oct. 2nd. Sorry, Green Day isn’t coming back to the Ted, the closest venues are in D.C. and Philly. Buy your tickets through Ticketmaster by clicking here.

WHY I NOW HATE SIMON COWELL

Ok, not the biggest American Idol fan right now, but I’ll admit the audition process makes me weak. I definitely watch all those horrible people audition, and I enjoy it, partially because Simon is so brutally, but truthfully honest to these worthless kids. He was saying what all of us were thinking, and I loved him for it. No longer do I love Simon Cowell. I hope I’m the only one who has been exposed to his latest creation, Il Divo. This group is made up of four guys, from all over the world. Their sound is described as opera meets pop. Something’s should never meet, like I should never meet Manny Ramirez, It’s just not right. The track I have unfortunately seen them sing on more than one morning talk show is Toni Braxton’s Unbreak My Heart. Unexceptable, right? To top it off they just suck. If you hear or see them, just run, or better yet watch it and get a good laugh.

THE CD’S TO GET THIS MONTH

HASIDIC REGGAE?

If you haven’t heard Matthew Miller, better known as Matisyahu, the first Hasidic Jew reggae artist, released his first album Matisyahu, Live at Stubbs. Labeling him self a former “Dead-Head”, learning to beat box in the back of the classroom wasn’t enough to keep this boy in school. Matisyahu dropped out of high school to follow Phish on tour and soon after took pilgrimages to Colorado, and Israel, where he then realized his true calling. With Bob Marley and Shlomo Carlebach sounding influences his music comes off as uplifting and powerful. I saw this kid on VH1 the other night, and he puts on one hell of a show. His music is definitely something worth checking out. For more info go to www.hasidicreggae.com.

WHAT A LINE-UP

Weezer, The Killers, Widespread Panic, Dashboard Confessional, and about 60 other awesome bands will take the 5 stages at the 2005 edition of Lollapalooza. Lollapalooza will take place in Chicago’s Grant Park July 23rd and 24th.

KID ROCK ARRESTED

Last Wednesday night, Kid Rock was arrested (shock) for assault outside a strip club (no way!) in Nashville Tennessee. No serious injuries were reported however the victim suffered from red marks on his face and broken glasses. How 7th grade bully give me your lunch money is that? Anyways, Kid Rock was released on $3,000 bail, and may have to serve up to a year in jail if convicted. The fight started over what type of music was being played in the club. Word on the street is Kid Rock wanted Michael Bolton’s greatest hits, but they said it wasn’t appropriate. Haha, that’s funny, too bad I made it up.

50 CENT AND THE GAME, BEST FRIENDS FOREVER

50 Cent and The Game were able to bury their beef and make up this weekend in Harlem. The two were in New York to present substantial donations to the Boys Choir of Harlem. The fight had started after 50 booted his protégé from the group G-Unit due to a lack of loyalty to the group. The two made up at a press conference in hopes of inspiring young kids to get along. I guess I should call up Nicole from back in the 5th grade and make amends. Thanks 50! Maybe not, she was rude and stole my travel size caboodle, somethings are just unforgivable.

MARIAH CAREY IS THE NEW CRAZY

Sorry Whitney Houston, and Ozzy Osborne Mariah Carey takes the cake. Her latest album, The Emancipation of Mimi out in stores now allows us to get to know the real Mariah who is actually named Mimi. Confused? Ok, so apparently Mariah hasn’t been herself for quite some time now, and Mimi who is the real her is letting her presence be known. Right. Personally I liked the old Mariah, I'm not gonna lie come on, Vision Of Love, that was the best. What happens to these celebrities, they have too much money or something? Cause I mean I could help lighten the load, you need to get rid of a couple million dollars? No problem, I'll take it.

DID SOMEONE SAY SLEEPOVER?

Doors' legend Jim Morrisons Los Angeles home is yours to stay in. For only $200 a night, or a grand for the week you can take your friends, sleeping bags, hallucinogenic drugs, and cookie dough and soak in what you can. Cheri Woods purchased the apartment knowing it was previously owned by someone famous but not told who exactly. It wasn't until she had fans coming over begging to take a tour and offering her money for pictures, and dirt from the backyard. Doing the smart thing, she decided to capitalize on the property and actually open the doors to fans and admirers.

ROCK ROYALTY

Ever wonder what it would be like to be Mick Jaggers daughter or John Lennons son? Rolling Stone, on stands now takes you behind the glitz and glam and highlights 'Children of Rock' taking you into the lives of rock legends. Jerry Garcia's daughter Trixie experienced her first psychedelic trip at the age of one when a bag of shrooms was accidentally left out. Other stories include that of Nona Gaye, Anna Gabriel, Harper Simon and Alexa Joel, who sadly inherited her dad's looks and not supermodel mom Christie Brinkleys.

MICHAEL IN MORE TROUBLE, IS THAT POSSIBLE?

Today the judge announced that he will allow past molestation allegations against Jackson to be presented in court. These past five testimonies will include that of Macaulay Culkin, and two other boys who had reached a multi-million dollar settlement with Jackson. Maybe now Jackson will stop arriving to court in pajamas, and may even make it one day on time, imagine that.

AMERICAN IDOL.WHO CARES?

Seventeen year old Mikalah Gordon was the latest to get booted from the contest. The hopeful singer was voted off after a re-vote took place after there was technically difficulties with phone numbers. I know this show is huge, I mean like 20 billion people watch it, I know I know. But where are the Kelly Clarksons? Where is the next soulful Rueben, or the dorky yet loveable Clay Aiken? None of these new kids do anything for me, I have yet to be impressed. Same old same old if you ask me.

BONNAROO CD AND DVD TO BE RELEASED

This two disc compilation of last years Bonnaroo show includes artists such as Trey Anastasio, The Dead, DMB, and Steve Winwood. The cd will be released April 5th with a dvd coming out May 17th. Look foward to footage of Los Lonely Boys, Primus, and Ani DiFranco. This year's events kick off June 10th in Manchester, Tennessee.

IF YOU'RE NOT WATCHING THE CONTENDER, SOMETHING IS WRONG.

I have no cd's for you to go out and get this month because I want you to focus on one thing and one thing only, and that would be watching the greatest show of my life, or as Mark Burnett likes to call it, The Contender. Do you like boxing? Neither did I, well honestly I never watched it but now I love it. This reality show takes you into the lives of 16 boxers; you get to know their families, their personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. So, there are two teams, East, and West. Every week there are challenges, which ever team wins the challenge chooses the fighter on their team and that fightercalls out who they want to fight on the other team. The winner gets an automatic spot in the top 8, the loser goes home, usually crying. So far the West is kicking ass, winning 4 fights to 1. My favorites? Well, there's Jesse, hot bald surfer looking guy from Nevada, Alfonso, the little engine that could, Jimmy, the gorgeous Christian boy from VA. But my favorite, my boy, Peter Manfredo who just this Sunday won at his second time around, (after loosing to Alfonso in the first fight,he was voted to be brought back after another contestant had to leave due to chicken pox). If his heart doesn't win you over his daughter will with her encouraging words like "You're not done yet dad!" This show is so intense and just great! I'm not telling you to maybe check this show out if you have a second, you have to watch, you won't be disappointed.

WHAT COULD BE WORSE?

Good Charlotte and Simple Plan have announced they will be going on a short North American tour together starting in May. The pop punk bands met before the MTV Asia Aid Benefit in Thailand. Apparently, the boys hit it off so well they just had to go on tour together. Great, sparks fly and now we suffer.

OK, THIS IS WORSE.

Backstreets back alright! Just when you thought the boy band craze had died and that Ryan Cabrera and Jesse McCartney were the new faces of Teen Beat, the boys come back to town, literally. The Backstreet Boys will be performing at the NoRVA April 4th. This is just one of the few "intimate venues" they will play before their big tour set to kick off July, 4th starts. How are they still referred to as 'boys'? Aren't they all like 40 with kids? First Backstreet, who's next? N'SYNC? God I hope so.

NEW NINE INCH NAILS

White Teeth, the groups' first album in six years will hit stores May 3rd. Expect more keyboard sounds and Prince like beats and more drumming courtesy of the one and only, very talented Mr. Dave Grohl. The boys will head out on their North American Tour early April.

AWWW SADNESS.

Blink-182 had announced that they will be taking an "indefinite hiatus". With all the side projects these boys have kept themselves busy with over the years I can guarantee this isn't the end of them, and that more great music is just around the corner. Check out Blinks website for the full story.

CD'S TO GET THIS MONTH

IS ANYONE ELSE WATCHING THESE SHOWS?

A CONCERT YOU WON'T MIND DRIVING TO

The annual Bamboozle concert series will kick off in Asbury Park, N.J. April 29th. The three day event will include favorite punk rock bands such as Thrice, Finch, Midtown, Alkaline Trio, Flogging Molly, Further Seems Forever, My Chemical Romance, and many more. It's only 79 bucks for the three day event, or 28 bucks per day. You can purchase tickets through ticketmaster.com.

BOB MARLEY'S MONTH LONG BIRTHDAY BASH

The reggae legends party started Feb. 6th in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The celebration known as Africa Unite will run throughout the month of Feb. featuring an internationally acclaimed line-up. Question: So why Africa? Answer: Bob Marley was committed to seeing unification and uplift throughout Africa, he'd have it no other way. Sorry I've got no ticket info or directions to this one, its been a second since I've been to Addis Ababa. Happy birthday!

NEW WEEZER ALBUM ALMOST COMPLETE

I know, I say it myself and I hardly believe it, but according to mtv.com the boys have set a release date for the album for sometime in May. The first single "Beverly Hills" will hit airwaves in March.

WHY I DON'T TRUST MICHAEL JACKSON:

Lots of people have their reasons, here are mine.
1) He thinks he's Peter Pan.
2) He claims to never having plastic surgery.
3) He is whiter than me, and trust me I'm white.
4) He's best friends with Liza Minelli.
5) He calls his baby "Blanket"
6) He's a gazillionaire, with some great old school songs and the only people he can get to come to a sleepover are innocent kids? He makes me sick.

CD'S TO GET THIS MONTH

1) Ray Charles, Ray :Songs That Inspired The Movie (good movie, great cd you have no excuse)
2) Various Artists, 2005 Grammy Nominees ( for the random music fan like me, you get everything from U2, Alicia Keys, Green Day, and Gretchen Wilson)
3) Styx, Yesterday and Today (ok maybe I'm the only one getting this one)
4) Tina Turner, All The Best (Ladies, great girl power music here!)
5) The Wedding Date Soundtrack (this album is filled with Michael Buble songs, he's the Frank Sinatra of our generation.)

THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF VALENTINES DAY

For all you single kids out there, some tips for not getting depressed this lovely night.
1) DO look fabulous and have a night out on the town with your dearest friends.
DON'T look fabulous frame a picture of Jude Law and proceed to tell everyone you're having a romantic dinner for two with your man.
2) DO buy Baskin Robbins Love Potion #39.
DONT eat the entire carton in one sitting.
3) DO watch Tommy Boy, Sorority Boys, and the Sandlot.
DON'T watch an Affair To Remember, Sleepless In Seattle, and The Notebook.
4) DO have a couple of beers or a couple of glasses of wine with dinner.
DON'T take shots of vodka, jack, and tequila then proceed to have a drunk dial marathon.
5)DO be excited that football season is over and baseball season is just around the corner.
DON'T be a Red Sox fan.

ARTISTS UNITE FOR TSUNAMI DISASTER RELIEF

From concert benefits to cash donations musicians from all genres of music are coming together to help tsunami victims. Linkin Park created Music For Relief which has already received donations from Jay-Z, Staind, Hoobastank, and others. My Chemical Romance, Cohheed and Cambria, Midtown and Senses Fail will play the Starlands Concerts for Tsunami Relief Series in Sayeville, NJ Jan, 12th and 16th. Sting has pledged 100% of his proceeds from his Feb. 10th Perth, Australia concert to victims of the tsunami. To find out how you can help checkout www.redcross.org for more information.

DOORS MANAGER PASSES AWAY

The Doors manager and writer Danny Sugerman passed away last Wednesday. Known best for his work with The Doors, Sugerman was also an acclaimed writer best known for his biography on Doors front man Jim Morrison, No One Gets Out Alive. Sugerman was taken by a 50 year battle with lung cancer.

PRESLEY STILL THE KING OF ROCK

Twenty-eight years after Elvis Presleys death he still remains one of the most profitable artists of all time. The famous Graceland, home to the king, brings in over 600,000 guests a year. Reports show that Elvis Presley Enterprises brought in over 45 million dollars just last year. This weekend would have culminated his 70th birthday.

WHY I THINK ASHLEE SIMPSON SUCKS

Ok, first there's the obvious. Her horrible performance on Saturday Night Live a month ago where she was unable to even lip synch correctly. Then just last week there was the Orange Bowl incident where over 72,000 football fans booed her off the stage. What people are forgetting is that she sucked well before these events. First off she can't sing, 2nd, her sister is Jessica Simpson, 3rd, she went out with Aaron Carter.yikes, and 4th, ever hear of a little WB show called 7th Heaven, yeah she was on it. Ashlee, sweetie, go back to youth group with your daddy and leave the singing to those with talent.

CD'S YOU SHOULD GET THIS MONTH

KANYE LEADS WITH 10 GRAMMY NOMINATIONS

Not trailing far behind are Alicia Keys and Usher both with 8 nods. Black Eyed Peas scored 4, newcomers Franz Ferdinand have a shot with 3 nods, right behind them is Modest Mouse with 2. Long time punk rockers Green Day scored 6 off their new album "American Idiot", happy I'm sure since they haven't received acknowledgement from the Grammy's since "Dokie". The Grammy's will air Feb. 13th on CBS.

TASTE OF CHAOS COMES TO NORFOLKMake sure you are at the Ted Constant Convocation Center Feb. 22nd for an amazing line-up. Set to play on the Taste Of Chaos Tour are, The Used, My Chemical Romance, Senses Fail, Saosin, and many more. You can purchase pre-sale tickets now through TasteofChaos.com.

MOTLEY CRUE SET FOR WORLD TOUR

God help us, get out your L.A. looks hair products and camel-toe white jeans cause Motley Crue is back! After a nasty 5 year break-up the boys are reuniting for their "Red, White, and Crue (how clever) Tour.Better Live Than Dead." The heavy metal band will make its way through 25 U.S. stops, than head through South America and Europe. No stops in VA, sorry ladies, the closest to us is at the MCI Center in D.C. March 6th. And if this isn't enough Crue for you (see I can be clever too) a movie based on the band's memoir "The Dirt" starts filming early 2005.

NEW HOT HOT HEAT

The new album "Elevator" will be released early April, with their first single "You Owe Me An IOU" hitting airwaves in March. Hopefully "IOU" is as catchy as their fist single "Bandages", or am I the only one who still loves that song?

CD'S YOU SHOULD GET THIS MONTH

MIX WORK AND PLAY?

Well Jimmy Eat World and Liz Phair give you some good reasons not to on the boys new single off their latest record Futures. The single, simply titled Work, includes back up vocals from Liz Phair. The song takes us through the troubles of an interoffice romance. The boys on Liz, "She definitely brings the sexiness, and was super cool to work with." If there are any further questions on why you shouldn't date someone you work with I'm available to take calls between the hours of 9 to 10p.m.

TROUBLE IN THE HIP HOP WORLD.AGAIN

Dr. Dre was attacked Monday night at the 2nd Annual Vibe Awards. Dre was waiting off stage to be announced for his award when he was approached by a young man asking for his autograph. Shortly after, the man attacked Dre by punching him in his face. Geez, people, did you not see Tupac Resurrection, Dangerous Minds, The Godfather, or have you not heard the Notorious B.I.G. story? You do not attack a hip hop icon! Bad things will come of it! Anyways, soon after members of G-Unit, Fifty Cent and Young Buck joined the squabble in hopes of protecting Dre. The attacker was stabbed and taken to the hospital, he is in stable condition.

NEW DVD, AND CD'S TO LOOK FOR

Unwritten Law will release their new album, Here's To The Mourning early Feb. 2005, and will head out on tour in a few weeks. Thrice is releasing a DVD documenting performances, music videos, and includes a bonus EP. Look for a release early 2005.

BILLBOARD PERFORMERS ANNOUNCED

Tune in to FOX Dec. 8th to the 2004 Billboard Music Awards and see favorites like Green Day, Duran Duran, Nelly, Usher and Stevie Wonder perform.

ODB PASSES AWAY

This passed Saturday rapper Old Dirty Bastard passed away. The cause of death is still unknown, however he had been complaining about chest pains that same day while recording in his Manhattan studio. R.I.P ODB.

PERFECT CIRCLE CONTINUES ANTI-WAR PROTEST

A Perfect Circle released their latest album eMOTIVe Tuesday, Nov. 2nd. (I know this may be news seeing as all of you were out voting that day.) The bands latest cd includes new songs, mixed with covers of classic protest songs. The boys plan on starting their U.S. tour with in the next couple months.

NIRVANA TRACK LIST RELEASED

The waiting is over The track list for Nirvana's four disc box set has been released.. The box set due out Nov. 23rd includes 3 cd's with everything from acoustic to live renditions of Smells Like Teen Spirit, to covers like Immigrant Song. And if listening to your favorite Nirvana songs aren't enough well have no fear, the box set includes a DVD. You will see everything from solo's to radio sessions, and concert highlights of songs like Seasons in the Son, and Big Cheese. For complete track listing checkout MTV.com, and to reserve a copy go to Amazon.com.

NEW DVD FOR MXPX

Punk rockers MXPX will release their new DVD, B-Movie Nov. 23rd. You can find live concert footage, never before seen interviews, backstage footage, and tour bus shots, which I'm sure is pure madness.

I LOVE JIMMY EAT WORLD

The boys are currently recording a 4 track EP a follow up to last months Futures, which if I may add if you don't have you're missing out. The band has yet to set a release date.

CD'S YOU SHOULD GET THIS MONTH...

Warning! These are random, so be prepared, but hey I like random music. A little variety never hurt anyone right?
1) Benny Goodman 1946: Classics (for anyone who appreciates jazz)
2) The Beatles Capitol Album, Vol. 1 (hi, it's the Beatles)
3) U2 How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (have these Irish boys ever had a bad cd?)
4) James Brown Greatest Hits (definitely a fun cd)
5) Britney Spears Greatest Hits (don't roll your eyes, she's everyone's guilty pleasure)

ELECTION WRAP UP

Hopefully all of you eligible to vote did so this past Tuesday. If you voted for Kerry, you're probably still pretty bummed, and maybe already headed for Australia. For those 'W' fans out there you're happy to see the southern boy back for another four years. Whatever the outcome and difference of opinions we may have I think we all can agree that this election was pretty intense. Throughout the entire campaign the media and candidates hoped for a better turnout of young voters, especially the Kerry crew. With support from celebrities like Green Day, Bruce Springsteen, P.Diddy, Ben Affleck, and everyone else in Hollywood, the Kerry campaign anticipated to win the young vote, which in turn could win him the already close election. Funny. Reports show that the turnout of young voters this year had not increased since last election. So what am I trying to say right? True, I'm a Bush fan, however maybe telling people to VOTE OR DIE isn't the way to go about it, and maybe we shouldn't vote based on an anti-American song. My suggestion? Don't vote for a particular person because your parents say to, or because Jack Black thinks they're cool. Why not do research, find out what you truly believe in, then get out there and vote.

VOTE BUSH CHENNEY ’04…

Or, if you’re already a part of the Kerry- Edwards bandwagon you’ll be psyched to know that the first Rock Against Bush Tour may be coming to a city near you early this fall. Look for your favorite punk bands like Anti-Flag, Strike Anywhere, Midtown, Hot Water Music, and Flogging Molly.

QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE NEW ALBUM IN THE WORKS

Queens front man Josh Homme teams up with Shirley Manson from Garbage, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, and Brody Dalle of the Distillers for Queens 4th album yet to be named. Look for a release later this fall.

MELANIE WILLS HAS A NEW BAND, AND NEW CD

Autumn to Ashes leading lady joins Antonio, former front man of Taking Back Sunday to form the band One True Thing. Check out their first album Finally in stores now.

COHEED AND OTHERS SING FOR A GOOD CAUSE

The 4th installment of Take Action! Benefit album will hit stores Oct. 5th. You can find Coheed, Taking Back Sunday, NOFX, and others on the album. Take Action! benefits the National Hopeline Network, a suicide and crisis hotline.

PHANTOM PLANET HIT THE ROAD

The California boys will kick off their national tour at Miami University in Oxford Ohio on August 21st. Ten days later the band releases Bootleg ’04, a live album available only through phantomplanetbootlegs.com. More tour dates to be announced.

FOR ALL THE OLD SCHOOL NICKELODEON FANS

If you watched Salute Your Shorts like I did, the name Pinsky should ring a bell. Well Pinsky’s real name is Blake Sennet and he is the front man of a rock band called Rilo Kiley. They have a new album coming out Aug.17th titled More Adventurous. The band sets off for a national tour mid Sept. Who knows maybe they’ll play that catchy Camp Anawana song we all know and love. Check out RiloKiley.com for more info.

CAN’T GET ENOUGH STORY OF THE YEAR?

Story of the Year will headline the 2nd Nintendo Fusion Tour kicking off Sept. 18th in Phoenix, AZ. Joining the boys are, Lostprophets, My Chemical Romance, Letter Kills, Aneberlin, and Autopilot Off. 37 additional shows will be played but, have yet to be finalized.

GREEN DAY FEELS ALIENATED, AND CONFUSED

Green Days album American Idiot, the bands first studio album in four years drops Sept. 21st. If you are feeling confusion and frustration toward your homeland, don’t worry you’re not alone, lead singer and guitarist Billie Joe shares your pain, “ ‘American Idiot’ is just about the confusion in what’s going on today, whether it’s the non-reality of reality television or what you see on CNN.” He’s currently quoted stating he’s “feeling completely confused and alienated.” Funny, that’s exactly how I felt in geometry class.

PUNKROCKVIDS.COM

Maybe you missed that NOFX performance on Conan, or you just want to see some cool live footage. Check out PunkRockVids.com for plenty of music videos and live performances from your favorite bands like, Yellowcard, Taking Back Sunday, and My Chemical Romance.

ROADTRIP WORTHY

If bands like Finch and Thursday are among your favorites take your mom’s van and some friends and head on out to Cleveland, OH. Sunday the 15th Strehessfess will rock out hundreds of thousands of fans in Cleveland. Joining Finch and Thursday are, Converge, Senses Fail, Midtown, Stretch Arm Strong, and many more. For more info check out Sthressfess.com

MARK HOPPUS, MXPX, AND MORE INSPIRED BY ‘PASSION’

P.O.D, and Lauryn Hill join Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus on the album Passion of the Christ Songs. The albums first single, “Relearn Love” is from none other than former Creed front man Scott Stapp. The album includes every genre of music, ranging from Charlotte Church to MXPX and other artist inspired by the movie. The album will coincide with The Passion of the Christ DVD release Aug.31st.

SOCIAL DISTORTION TO TOUR WITH NEW BASSIST

Rancid bassist Matt Freeman will join the band for their upcoming U.S. tour. Freeman replaces longtime bassist John Maurer who is leaving due to family commitments. No tour dates have been set.

SAVES THE DAY TO RELEASE B-SIDES

For anyone who always says you like their old stuff better, Saves the Day’s new CD Up’s and downs: Early Recordings will hit stores Aug. 24th.

RICK JAMES PASSES AWAY

Rick James died from natural causes Aug. 6th. He was discovered by his housekeeper Friday in his Hollywood Hills home.

GUTTERMOUTH DROPPED FROM WARPED TOUR

It has been said that Guttermouths crazy antics is what got them kicked off the 2nd leg of the Vans Warped Tour. The bands website released a statement by band mate Mark on Aug. 3rd reading, “ big promises were broken and reneged”, “I was told that ten or so bands didn’t care for us much and some even threatened us with violence”. Check out the bands website for their complete story.

TAKING BACK SUNDAY ON A ROLL

The bands album Where You Want To Be reached the #3 spot on Billboards Top 200. You can currently catch the band on the Vans Warped Tour, and come Sept. they’ll tour with Fallout Boy, and Matchbox Romance. No dates have been set.

BUSH GETS NO LOVE

Fat Wreck Chords will release their second installment of Rock Against Bush coming out August 10th. Yellowcard, Green Day, Dropkick Murphy’s, Sugarcult, Flogging Molly, Rancid, and many more rock out against Bush on this volume that includes a bonus DVD. I know what you’re thinking, where’s Ben Affleck?

DAVE MATTHEWS, PEARL JAM, & MORE ROCK THE VOTE

The anti-Bush trend continues with Springsteen, R.E.M., and Jurassic 5, joining DMB and Pearl Jam in the Vote For Change Tour. The tour will run from Oct. 1st thru the 10th with concentration on “swing states”, where the election is expected to be closest. The tour will play 34 concerts in 29 cities. Good timing for R.E.M., their new album Around The Sun hits stores Oct. 5th.

NOFX ON CONAN

You shouldn’t need an excuse to watch Conan O’Brien but if you do make sure to tune in Tuesday the 10th, when punk rockers NOFX take the stage.

CAN’T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG?

At the Rolling Rock Town Fair in Latrobe PA this weekend, there was an all out brawl onstage between pop punk band Finch and metal rockers Disturbed. Finch has apparently been bad mouthing Disturbed for the past few months and it came to a head this weekend during Finch’s set in front of tens of thousands of fans. No serious injury was done, yet both walked off with bruises and black eyes.

METALLICA HITS THE BIG SCREEN

What started out as a documentary on their new album St. Anger, eventually turned into a full- length feature film about how a band on the verge of breaking up finds how to be a family again .You could say the departure of the bassist Jason Newsted got the ball rolling, or maybe lead singer James Hetfield checking into rehab had something to do with starting the drama. The film takes you through everything from band therapy sessions, auditions for a new bassist, to the end where we learn that the making of this new album is really what saves them all.

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT THE WORST WAS OVER

Three former members of Creed who now form the band Alter Bridge, are kicking off their national tour Sept. 23rd in Michigan. Their new CD hits stores August 10th.

NATIONAL TOURS

Green Day hooks up with New Found Glory and Sugarcult for national tour starting Oct. 19th in Dallas. Other dates set in Philadelphia, New York City, and D.C. The new Green Day album American Idiots drops Sept. 21st. Tickets on sale mid Sept. Alternative Scottish band Franz Ferdinand kicks off American tour Sept. 9th in New York City. More tour dates to be announced.

NEW RELEASES 8/3/04

The Velvet Underground (RhinoRecords) Live at Max’s Kansas City Various Artists (Big Eye Records) World’s Greatest Tribute to Nirvana

UPCOMING CONCERTS

8/3/04 Vans Warped Tour Featuring New Found Glory, Yellowcard, Flogging Molly, NOFX, Story of The Year, Allister, and many more. Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater

8/11/04 Miller Lite presents Linkin Parks Projekt Revolution Tour Featuring Korn, Snoop Dogg, The Used, and Less Than Jake. Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Ampitheater