Diana DeGarmo on The Young and the Restless

Diana DeGarmo made her soap opera debut today on The Young and the Restless. In a past post, it was explained that Diana is playing a wannabe singer and daughter of a mob enforcer, Jersey girl Angelina. Watch Diana's scenes from her first episode of TYATR below:


Credit to AtkinsonMissing

David Cook puts on a creepy concert!

David Cook performed in Austin, TX last night and in honor of Halloween, dressed for the occasion! Covered in fake blood and scary face makeup, Cook performed his set of the concert for his fall tour with Gavin DeGraw.



The song "Circadian" off of Cook's sophomore album This Loud Morning starts off with a creepy melody that is perfect for Halloween! Check out Cook performing the song below:


Credit to CougarsLoveCook

My Top 10 Picks for Halloween Songs

Whether it's a spooky beat, terrifying lyrics or a spine-chilling melody, today I'm sharing with you my Top 10 Halloween song picks!

10. Time Warp - The Rocky Horror Glee Show cast
The original "Time Warp" from the Rocky Horror Picture Show is good, but this chilling rock song performed by the cast of Glee is even better!


9. Shot in the Dark - Big Time Rush
Maybe this is just favoritism here, but am I the only one who sees Big Time Rush's "Shot in the Dark" as a Halloween-ish song? With the spooky, pop music and supernatural setting, this song from the episode "Big Time Terror" is just haunting enough to be on my list!


8. Monster - Lady GaGa
While searching for new Halloween-esque songs, I thought for sure Lady GaGa would have one worthy of the holiday. And I was right when I found this perfect pop potion, "Monster".


7. Superstition - Stevie Wonder
Writings on the wall and ladders 'bout to fall? I think this haunting Stevie Wonder song classifies as a Halloween tune.


6. The Addams Family theme song
*snap snap* The mixture of humor and haunt in this classic theme song makes for another Halloween hit.


5. Ghostbusters theme song
This song may not be horrifying or bloodcurdling, but the Ghostbusters is just another one of those Halloween necessities.


4. This Is Halloween - Marilyn Manson (From The Nightmare Before Christmas) 
This song is a trick and a treat for the holiday. From The Nightmare Before Christmas, the title of this song makes it pretty self-explanatory, this IS Halloween!


3. 'Halloween' movie theme song
The theme to the Halloween movies just always says Halloween to me. It's been a tradition for me to always watch these movies on Halloween, and this eerie melody just symbolizes Halloween for me.


2. The Monster Mash - Bobby "Boris" Pickett
Another Halloween classic, this fun and upbeat song is definitely a graveyard smash!


1. Thriller - Michael Jackson
Are you surprised? This song and music video is another one that's become a tradition for me, watching it every Halloween. Between the creepy video and the haunting, upbeat music, this song will get you moving and get you fearing! This Michael Jackson hit will always be a thrilling Halloween anthem.


Those are my Top 10 picks for your Halloween playlist! Happy Halloween!

David Cook co-wrote "Screaming" on James Durbin's new album

According to a press release, David Cook co-wrote the song "Screaming", which will be featured on American Idol Season 10 contestant James Durbin's new album Memories Of A Beautiful Disaster. "Screaming was also co-written by James, along with Ryan Star, Kulchinsky, Gregg Wattenberg and Bobby Alt. Read the paragraph from the press release below:

"'Screaming,' co-written by James and 'Idol' Season 8 winner David Cook, tackles a very topical issue and that's the epidemic of bullying that's rampant among the youth of the nation and something Durbin himself experienced. "There are a lot of songs that look at and deal with being bullied and singled out, and that's definitely one. We went at it with a 'Revenge of the Nerds' feel, but it's about how there is light at the end of the tunnel." Again, 'Screaming' could join 'Higher Than Heaven' and 'Outcast' as the rock
anthems for the plugged in generation."

James' new album will be out on November 21st, which seems to have become a popular day in music, as Daughtry and Big Time Rush are also dropping albums that day!

Big Time Rush's superhero-themed "Blow Your Speakers" video

Last night on the new Big Time Rush episode Big Time Superheroes, their new song "Blow Your Speakers" was featured with a superhero-themed music video. "Blow Your Speakers" will be featured on BTR's new album Elevate, available for pre-order this Tuesday and out on November 21st.

One thing that I love about Big Time Rush is how it relates to everyone, and this new music video is the perfect example. Young boys watching love the superhero theme, young girls love the guys dressed as superheroes and "Blow Your Speakers" has a catchy dance beat that everyone can enjoy. Check out the "Blow Your Speakers" music video below:


Credit to BigTimeRushMV

Chris Daughtry performs National Anthem at World Series

Check out Chris Daughtry performing the National Anthem at Game 7 of the World Series tonight.


Credit to andreasc47

Daughtry just premiered their new music video for "Crawling Back To You", which will be on their new album Break The Spell, out November 21st.

Adele cancels remaining 2011 appearances due to throat surgery

It has just been announced today that due to the issues with her throat, Adele will be getting throat surgery and has been forced to cancel the rest of her remaining tour dates and appearances this year. The Grammy-winning singer had already canceled US tour dates earlier this year due to problems with her vocal cords, and has now canceled her remaining Britain tour dates since the issues have returned.

"She is to undergo surgery to alleviate the current issues with her throat and a full recovery is expected. As a result, doctors have ordered her to rest her voice and completely recuperate." said a statement from her record label.

Wishing Adele luck and a quick recovery!

Michael Johns and The Ontic's "Come On Come On" featured on Vampire Diaries

American Idol Season Seven 8th placer Michael Johns and The Ontic's song "Come On Come On" was featured on the new Vampire Diaries episode last night, "Ghost World." You can hear the song playing in the background in this clip:


Credit to kellyvanboom

Westlife is breaking up!?

The UK band Westlife have just announced that they're breaking up through a message on their facebook page:

We wanted to take a moment to say thank you to everyone for their kind words and support since making our announcement. Our fans continue to be the best support system we could ever hope for and we thank each and every one of you.

The support we have felt over the last couple of days gives us all strength as we look forward to our new individual paths in life and we all feel excited about the next chapters that we are embarking on. We know it doesn't make for a good story but regardless of what you might read in the papers this was wholeheartedly a united decision. Obviously there is already a huge amount of speculation as to what exactly is next for us all, but until you hear it from us it remains just that; speculation.

We are planning a fan Q+A and some interviews in the coming weeks so that we can speak directly to you all and so that you can hear our plans, straight from us. Until then, we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts - we really do have the best fans in the world.

- Shane, Nicky, Mark and Kian x

How do you feel about Westlife breaking up? It's kind of sad, I was a fan. Check out this awesome performance of Westlife singing "The Easy Way":

Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott & more to perform on VH1 Divas

Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, Jessie J and Florence + the Machine will all be apart of VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul concert. The concert will be a tribute to the Great Cities of Soul, which includes Chicago, Detroit, London, Memphis and Philadelphia. It'll be held at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, and the special will premiere on VH1 on December 19th.

David Archuleta to film music video for "Wait"!

David Archuleta reveals in his new video blog that he'll be going to Hong Kong this weekend for a performance with Channel V, AND will be filming a music video for his song "Wait"! "Wait" is featured on the Asian Tour Edition of his album The Other Side of Down. Watch David's video blog below:

Big Time Rush's "Music Sounds Better With You" cover art!

Big Time Rush has released their cover art for their new single "Music Sounds Better With You"!

This past week BTR also filmed their new music video for the song!

Go HERE to read my review of "Music Sounds Better With You."

Port Chuck tour video!

Port Chuck posted this tour video on their website, spotlighting a few of the most popular stops on their tours this year. Included are footage from Mohegan Sun, NYC, Rochester, Orlando, their guest appearance on Extra and the show in Boston that I attended. You can read my concert review HERE.

Glee celebrates 300 musical performances!

Today the Glee cast and crew celebrated 300 musical performances while filming their 300th musical number, a mash-up of Adele's "Someone Like You" and "Rumor Has It".

Below is a list of the 300 musical performances Glee has performed throughout the 2+ seasons (found on MJ's Big Blog):

1. Respect

2. Where Is Love?

3. Mr. Cellophane

4. I Kissed A Girl

5. On My Own

6. Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat

7. You’re The One That I Want

8. Leaving On A Jet Plane

9. Can’t Fight This Feeling

10. Rehab

11. Don’t Stop Believin’

12. Le Freak

13. Gold Digger

14. Push It

15. I Say A Little Prayer

16. Take A Bow

17. This Is How We Do It

18. For He’s A Jolly Good Fellow

19. Poison

20. Mercy

21. La Camisa Negra

22. Bust Your Windows

23. I Wanna Sex You Up

24. Single Ladies

25. Taking Chances

26. Tonight

27. Star Spangled Banner

28. Maybe This Time

29. Don’t Stop Believin’

30. Alone

The list continues after the break!

Big Time Rush on the set of "Music Sounds Better With You" music video!

Here are behind the scenes pictures of Big Time Rush with Mann on the set of their new music video for their single "Music Sounds Better With You." The song will be featured on BTR's new album Elevate, available on November 21st.

Demi Lovato performs at Z100's Jingle Ball Kickoff Party!

As one of Z100's Jingle Ball performers, Demi was in NYC last week at their Jingle Ball Kickoff Party to help promote it. Demi sang "Skyscraper", "My Love is Like a Star", "Catch Me" and a cover of Lil Wayne's "How To Love". Videos below:








Credit to PopstarMagazine

Daughtry's new music video for "Crawling Back To You"!

Posted already was the behind the scenes of the music video, now here it is! "Crawling Back To You" will be featured on Daughtry's new album Break The Spell, out November 21st.

Kellie Pickler reveals new album deets at Grand Ole Opry

Saturday night at the Grand Ole Opry, Kellie Pickler performed two new songs off of her latest album. "Tough" and "Stop Cheatin On Me" will be on Kellie's new album 100 Proof, out January 24th. Check out Kellie's new music video for "Tough", as well as Kellie performing "Stop Cheatin On Me" at the Bama Rising concert this past June, below:




Credit to boilerupwill

Demi Lovato singing National Anthem at World Series Game

Even with nerves apparent in her voice, Demi killed the National Anthem at the World Series Game tonight! Video below:


Credit to halxx413

Port Chuck performs at The Highline Ballroom in NYC

Over the weekend, General Hospital's Port Chuck performed their first shows since their End of Summer Tour. They performed at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, then headed to NYC for a big show at The Highline Ballroom. Among their set were some of my favorites, "American Girl", "No One Like You" and "White Lines." Videos below:




Credit to IrisC72869


Credit to kauffrey3266

Song Review: Josiah Leming - Too Young

Josiah Leming of American Idol Season 7 has released a new song, "Too Young", about how young people are, well, too young. Too young to understand and too young to care. I agree and disagree with this song, as I think it all depends on the kind of person you are. While not all young people are "too young to give a $#*!", the majority seems to be, which is obviously what Josiah is explaining here. Too young to care for it, too young to take it to heart, those lyrics carry so much meaning and truth as Josiah sings about the way most young people think. While some of the lyrics get a little explicit, I think it adds to the youthful charm of the song, and Josiah sings this Indie pop ballad with a strong but sincere voice. I know it's been over three years, but doesn't this song prove he should've made it past Hollywood Week on Idol? Come on?

Album Review: Michael Bublé - Christmas

Christmas is coming early this year for Michael Bublé! The jazz-pop singer lent his voice to numerous holiday classics on his new album, Christmas, out today. This album features Christmas and holiday favorites with their own Bublé twist! Michael's take on these Christmas songs is intriguing yet delightful as his lovely voice is defined throughout this album. Some of the songs like "Holly Jolly Christmas" and "Blue Christmas" showcase Michael at his best, while other songs like his slower version of Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" show Michael's fun and daring side. The album also features Bublé's original song "Cold December Night", a cute, pop song about Michael wanting a girl to fall in love with him for Christmas. This album is full of Christmas spirit in these joyful holiday tunes. I think it'll be a very Bublé Christmas!

Album Review: Kelly Clarkson - Stronger

Kelly Clarkson's new album Stronger is officially out today, and it's definitely one of my favorites albums from her. Kelly gets deep and personal in these pop rock songs like "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)" and "Dark Side", softens into ballads like "Standing In Front of You" and "Breaking Your Own Heart" and goes a little R&B in "Why Don't You Try."  With a voice full of power and emotion in these catchy and relatable songs, Kelly keeps her honesty and respected edge, and shows just how much stronger she's become.

You can read my review of Kelly single "Mr. Know It All" HERE.

Scotty McCreery's new music video for "The Trouble With Girls"

David Archuleta performs at Children's Miracle Awards

Yesterday David Archuleta performed at Children's Miracle Network's Children's Miracle Awards in Orlando, FL. After a fun day of meeting CMN's champion kids, David performed a marvelous version of his song "Dream Sky High" and a cover of "Lean On Me." David doesn't perform "Dream Sky High" often, but when he does, he holds so much inspiration in his voice and always makes for an uplifting and enthusiastic performance. As for "Lean On Me", the way David started out the song deep and then belts it out at the end is just stunning. Videos below:




Credit to AttractionsMagazine

Hot Chelle Rae and Demi Lovato collab!

During an interview on MuchMusic's New.Music.Live in Toronto, Hot Chelle Rae talked about their new album Whatever, saying, "[The album] is done. The artwork is finished, the track-listing is done. We've got the features in place and we're ready to launch it." The guys also revealed that there will be a collaboration with Demi Lovato on the new album, "We just got in a song called "Why Don't You Love Me?" that Demi Lovato's on. We just heard it and she killed it!"

Whatever will be available on November 29th! You can go HERE to read my small review of HRC's set at the Big Time Rush concert in Hampton Beach, NH back in August.

Behind the scenes of Daughtry's "Crawling Back To You" & Scotty McCreery's "Trouble With Girls" music videos

Two Idol's have posted behind-the-scenes looks at their new music videos!

Behind the scenes of Daughtry's new music video for "Crawling Back To You":



Behind the scenes of Scotty's new music video for "Trouble With Girls":

Syesha Mercado to release a Christmas song

Syesha will be releasing a Christmas song this holiday season, and was in New York today recording it!

Syesha, David Archuleta's Glad Christmas Tidings, Michael Buble's Christmas next week... so much great Christmas music this year!

Song Review: Big Time Rush - Music Sounds Better With You

"Music Sounds Better With You" is Big Time Rush's latest single off of their sophomore album Elevate. The guys sing about a girl who makes everything better, even music! Bouncing off Daft Punk's "Music Sounds Better" from 1998, the guys, along with OneRepublic's Ryan Tedder, made some modern day tweaks to the song and "Music Sounds Better With You" does not disappoint! Kendall, James, Carlos and Logan each sound amazing in this upbeat, dance song, and it's obvious BTR have big time improved. If I had to say anything negative though, it would only be that the word "hell" is in the song. BTR has some really young fans, I don't think they should be cursing in their songs. But that aside, I think this song shows that Big Time Rush is definitely elevating their
                                                                      music, and after hearing this song, I can't wait for the rest of
                                                                      their album!

BTR will also be filming a music video for the song next week! Can't wait!

Big Time Rush premieres new single "Music Sounds Better With You"!

This morning on Ryan Seacrest's radio show, Kendall of Big Time Rush premiered BTR's new single "Music Sounds Better With You"! The song will be available for download on itunes on November 1st, along with the pre-order of their new album Elevate! Listen to "Music Sounds Better With You" below:

Sneak peek of Straight No Chaser's 'Songs of the Decades' special!

This awesome cover will be featured on Striaght No Chaser's new holiday special "Songs Of The Decades: Holiday Edition", which will start airing on December 3rd. Air dates will be posted HERE soon! Seriously, how amazing is Michael's voice in this?? As are the rest of them, but Michael's solos are just captivating in this song.

SNC also has a new EP "Six Pack: Volume 2", available on November 29th.

David Archuleta and Mormon Tabernacle Choir "Glad Christmas Tidings" trailer

Posted today by Deseret Book store is the trailer for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir DVD, featuring David Archuleta, Glad Christmas Tidings. The DVD is available at Deseret Book stores and on Amazon, and you can also catch David singing some Christmas tunes in December on his My Kind of Christmas Tour!



Read my review of the Glad Christmas Tidings CD HERE.

                               

Kelly Clarkson covers Carrie Underwood!

Last night Kelly Clarkson performed a show at The Troubadour in LA. During her set, Kelly covered fellow American Idol winner Carrie Underwood's "I Know You Won't"! Video below:


Credit to ADDICTED2CONCERTS

Diana DeGarmo lands role on The Young and the Restless!

Following in the footsteps of American Idol’s Jason Castro, who made a guest appearance last year on Bold and the Beautiful, and Chikezie Eze who performed on General Hospital back in 2009, AI Season Three’s Diana DeGarmo is headed to Genoa City on The Young and the Restless! Diana is slated to be playing a Jersey girl named Angelina, who wants to be a singer, but isn't very good. Diana’s first appearance will be on October 31st!

Enation posts rehearsal pics!

Looks like a lot of GH guys are in rehearsals! Not only is Port Chuck rehearsing for their upcoming shows this weekend, but Jonathan Jackson's band Enation is hard at work in rehearsals too. Enation has a free show at Molly Malone's in LA tonight!

Go HERE to read my review of Enation's new album My Ancient Rebellion.

Big Time Rush's new album cover!

According to BigTimeRushTV.com, Big Time Rush just tweeted that this is the cover of BTR's sophomore album Elevate, out November 21st! Who's excited?!

In a Ustream chat on Tuesday, the guys revealed that "Music Sounds Better With You" will be their new single, plus more new song titles from the album, go HERE to check it out!

Update: Kendall just tweeted that he'll be announcing BTR's new single "Music Sounds Better With You" tomorrow on Ryan Seacrest's radio show! Be sure to tune in!

Port Chuck at rehearsal!

Steve Burton posted pictures from Port Chuck's rehearsal tonight! The guys have shows this weekend at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut on Oct. 22nd and in NYC on Oct. 23rd. The guys have also started planning their next tour, set for April (do I hear a Boston date?) Be on the look out for dates at portchuck.com!

Fun fun!

                                         Another!                                                      Brando

Brad Paisley tour dates, Scotty McCreery opens!

Brad Paisley has announced next year's tour, The Camobunga! 2012 World Tour, starting on January 12th in Grand Rapids, MI. American Idol winner Scotty McCreery, as well as The Band Perry will open.

2012 First Quarter Tour Dates
1/12   Grand Rapids, MI      Van Andel Arena
1/13   Milwaukee, WI          Bradley Center
1/14   St. Paul, MN              Xcel Energy Center
1/19   Kansas City, MO        Sprint Center
1/20   Wichita, KS                Intrust Bank Arena
1/21   Denver, CO                Pepsi Center
1/26   Boise, ID                    Idaho Center
1/27   Salt Lake City, UT     Maverik Center
1/28   Las Vegas, NV           Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
2/9    Spokane, WA             Spokane Arena
2/10   Eugene, OR               Matthew Knight Arena
2/11   Tacoma, WA              Tacoma Dome
2/16   Lubbock, TX              United Spirit Arena
2/17   Las Cruces, NM          Pan AmericaCenter
2/23   Madison, WI              Alliant Energy Center
2/24   Moline, IL                  iWireless Center
2/25   Springfield, MO         JQH Arena
3/1     Baltimore, MD           1st Mariner Arena
3/2     Knoxville, TN             Thompson-Boling Arena
3/3     Lexington, KY            Rupp Arena

More info HERE.

American Idol Fun Fact

In it's first week, American Idol winner Scotty McCreery's debut album Clear As Day made #1 on the Billboard 200, while runner-up Lauren Alaina's Wildflower made #5.

Fun fact: an American Idol winner and runner-up haven't charted at the top 5 of the Billboard 200 with their debut albums since 2008, when Season 7 winner David Cook's self-titled debut made #3 and runner-up David Archuleta's debut album made #2. Cool!

Source: Billboard

Kelly Clarkson performs on Dancing With The Stars

On tonight's Dancing With The Stars results show, Kelly Clarkson sang an old favorite, "Walk Away", while Mark Ballas, Sharna Burgess, Val Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd performed a dazzling dance routine. Later Kelly performed a marvelous version her new single "Mr. Know It All" while Kym Johnson and Tristan MacManus danced. Videos below:




Credit to Codebear4

Big Time Rush gives away new album secrets!

Carlos, Logan, Kendall and James treated their fans with a Ustream chat this afternoon to announce some of their new album deets! The guys announced that their new album Elevate will be available for pre-order on November 1st, and the album will be released on November 21st. They explain their new album as "upbeat" and "heartfelt", and will introduce you to a different side of Big Time Rush. James also said that they may be doing some CD signings when the album is released. The guys also announced that their first single off of the album will be "Music Sounds Better With You", and the guys even spilled more new song titles: "All Over Again", "Invisible" (written by Carlos, dedicated to the fans!), "No Idea", "You're Not Alone" and "Love Me, Love Me" (which is slated to be in an Airheads commercial shot by BTR!).

Watch BTR's Ustream chat below:

Video streaming by Ustream

David Archuleta performs at Foster Festival in Japan

Over the weekend David Archuleta performed a show at the Foster Festival in Okinawa, Japan. Among his 17-song set was some old Idol favorites. David performed "Stand By Me", "Crazy" and a killer version of "Heaven"!


Credit to malamayumi08


Credit to Abrra58


Credit to malamayumi08

Kelly Clarkson leaks her own songs!

Just a week before her new album Stronger drops and among all of the leaking songs, Kelly has decided to leak some official versions for all her fans! This week she posted the official album versions of "Dark Side" and "You Love Me".

This upbeat, but deep song starts off with an almost haunting melody and turns into a full on rock ballad. Kelly sings, Will you love me even with my dark side? I've always enjoyed the trueness and relatability in Kelly's songs, and this is just another one to add to the list.


"You Love Me" is a classic Kelly pop rock song with a catchy beat, genuine lyrics and an inspiring raucousness in her voice.


You can read my review of "Mr. Know It All" HERE and my review of "What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)" HERE.

Check out David Guetta and Usher's new music video for "Without You"!

Watch David Guetta and Usher performer their hit "Without You" in this heartwarming music video that shows people around the world enjoying the music, and in the end every part of the world becomes one, as everyone is connected by music. I think it's a great concept for a great song. You can read my review of "Without You" HERE.

Song Review: Bruno Mars - Marry You

Off of the debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, "Marry You" is the fourth single from Bruno Mars. For anyone else a song about marrying a girl could be cheesy, but not for Bruno. His captivating voice sounds so sincere throughout this upbeat, pop song as Bruno professes his love for that special someone, with the wedding bells and all! Not only does this song make you want to get up and dance, but reflects the feeling of spontaneous, true love. This modern-day love song is probably one of the cutest songs I've ever heard, who wouldn't say 'I do'?

Big Time Rush fans, save the date!

Today while on a fun fishing trip, Carlos tweeted this cute picture of the BTR guys promoting their second album release date 11/21/11.

How cute are they? Now the guys want all their Rushers to get BTR11/21/11 trending on twitter! Let's go Rushers!!

Interview with Benton Paul

Super talented solo artist Benton Paul has already released his first album and toured the country. I had the chance to see Benton at the Boston House of Blues back in 2009, and though that was my first time being introduced to his music, I have to say I became a fan after that night. Now as he works on his second album, I've been able to ask Benton about his music, songwriting and how he got his start at such a young age.


You’re working on your second album, what can fans look forward to on this album?
The new album will be more artsy and upbeat than the last.

Do you prefer live or recording? 
I prefer performing live and listening to recordings.

Where do you find the inspiration for your songs?
Great question, every month seems different! Some months are harder to find inspiration than others. I look to books, movies and other music a lot though.

What came first for you, singing, songwriting or playing an instrument?
Probably dancing! haha I used to dance around to Michael Jackson and Milli Vanilli when I was super young. Then took piano at 5, and started singing in public at 6!

You often play the guitar and piano, is there any other instrument you’ve ever wanted to play?
Yes, I always wanted to play the drums... but my mom said they were too loud... I'm still in awe when I see a great drummer.

Do you have any pre-show or backstage rituals?
Haha, a lot of the time we just make up some silly sentence and yell it from within the huddle; but more importantly, a prayer either out loud or in the heart is key to a long term career.

Benton performing at Boston
House of Blues in 2009.

 What place would you like to go to on tour that you haven’t been
 to/toured yet?
 Europe!

 If you could perform with anyone, living or non-living, who 
 would  you choose?
 The Beatles :) Cliche, but hey.

 What’s been the biggest moment in your life so far?
 I remember my first time playing a stadium stage to a sold out crowd, it
 was unreal, and one of the best feelings to have that much support as you
 sing.



Besides the new album, what else is coming up for you?
With a new album comes new merch, new tour dates and new videos!

Do you have a message to all of your fans? 
Yes, I couldn't be doing what I do without your love and support, thank you so much from the bottom of my heart!


Thanks Benton for the interview, and I can't wait for the new album! 

Album Review: Seth MacFarlane - Music Is Better Than Words

Seth MacFarlane has sung on his hit show Family Guy many times, but now is singing as himself on his debut album Music Is Better Than Words. As I've previously stated, this album has a modern day Sinatra vibe. Seth's silky smooth voice with these swing snap-your-fingers songs is different, but enjoyable.

I must admit, while listening to this album I couldn't help but imagine Brian Griffin singing in a top hat and cane - LOL. But all jokes aside, Seth has an intriguing voice in these songs that just make you want to tap your foot to the beat. This lovely mix of show tunes and ballads showcases Seth's great voice and each song tells a theatrical story. MacFarlane also duets with singers Sara Bareilles on "Love Won't Let You Get Away" and Norah Jones on "Two Sleepy People".

Now what's on the pipeline for Seth's music career? I'd love to see a Christmas album next, can you imagine Seth dueting with say, Ingrid Michaelson or Alison Sudol on "Baby It's Cold Outside"? That would be just luscious.

Song Review: Lady GaGa - You And I

I may be a little late to the party, but I just heard this song for the first time today, and I have to say, I loved it from the first few seconds I heard of it.

Is it a little bit country, or a little bit rock 'n roll? Well, this song seems to be a little bit of both! Unlike her dance-floor, electronic pop songs we're all used to, "You And I" brings a new sound to Lady GaGa's music and voice. This retro ballad is refreshing compared to most of her other singles, and her voice holds a certain realness in it as she sings out in a husky, yet strong way that fits this song perfectly.


This song has a catchy and feel good beat with lyrics that tell a story and show off a less "monstrous" side of Lady GaGa. As intrigued as I am by the outrageous side of her, I'd love to see this side of her more often.

Go behind the scenes with Big Time Rush for their "All Over Again" music video!

From Cambio:


And don't miss the new episode "Big Time Contest" tonight on Nickelodeon!

Album Review: Montë Mar - Different Place EP

Fresh into the music scene is the California based band Montë Mar with their debut EP Different Place. Consisting of modern pop and rock songs, with noticeable groovy guitar riffs and intriguing lyrics, these songs introduce you to Montë Mar's distinct sound and uniqueness. Between the upbeat "Complicated Number", the slower "Brown to Grey" and my personal favorite, the title track "Different Place", every song on this six-song EP has a mellow, summery vibe and shows off the band's artsy and energetic motif. This is the perfect debut EP that lets you get the feel of the band, and I can't wait to hear more from them.

And if you're in the LA area, be sure to check out Montë Mar at The Satellite tonight for their EP release!

Big Time Rush films Big Time Movie! Plus more 2nd album excitement!

Kendall, James, Carlos and Logan have been in Vancouver over the last week filming the new Big Time Movie! Stephen Glickman (who plays Gustavo) tweeted this behind the scenes picture of the guys while shooting:

On set with @bigtimerush shooting #bigtimemovie U are gonna love this!!!!!!

BTR also tweeted this graphic a little while ago of "11.21.11", the day their new album Elevate is being released:

And not long after tweeting that picture did the Rushers get BTR ELEVATE US trending in excitement on twitter!

Josh Groban guest stars on last night's new episode of The Office

Last night on the new "Garden Party" episode of The Office, Josh Groban played Andy's younger brother Walter Jr. As it appears throughout the episode, Andy's parents seem more proud of Walter Jr., and he even replaces Andy with doing a duet with their father (played by Stephen Collins) in front of the whole office staff and the new boss at the garden party Andy was trying so desperately to prove himself at.

You can watch the entire episode of The Office below, and see Josh Groban singing with Stephen Collins at 15:50:

Interview with singer-songwriter Jared Lee

Breaking out into the music world, just releasing his debut EP Falling Through Holes, is singer-songwriter Jared Lee. I've had the chance to interview Jared and talk to him about his new EP, his music style and how he's going from singing in studios to singing in front of live audiences.


1. Which one do you like better, singing or songwriting? 
I like them both for different reasons. There is nothing like performing on stage for people and affecting them with your music. At the same time, creating a new song and melody that no one has ever heard before is quite exhilarating. I plan to do both as long I live.

2. When did you write your first song?
I think I was about 16 at my house on our piano in Boston.

3. What inspires you to write a song?
Combination of things.... sometimes its a personal experience, sometimes its something a friend of mine my go through. Sometimes its a catch phrase or a particular emotion I feel thats brought on by something I see.
Recently I've been really inspired by the dedication of some of my fans out there who have been working hard to helping spread my music.

4. You just released your new EP Falling Through Holes, what’s that been like?
Incredibly exciting. I've been working on this batch of songs for awhile and I'm very proud that this is my first release. I hope people enjoy listening to the music as much as I did making it.

5. How would you describe your music style?
I think my vocal style has a bit more soul/R&B influence but my songs are pop songs. I aim for big melodies that I hope will play over in your head again and again.

6. How would you want people to feel when they listen to your music?
The emotions and passion I try to communicate in the song. I hope many find it therapeutic.

7. What’s the weirdest place a song idea has come to you?
Tough one ha... my mind wanders a lot so probably while I'm in the middle of a conversation or playing a sport... something where I'm supposed to be focused on the task at hand and I'm clearly not.

8. Who are your musical influences?
Growing up I worshipped Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, Sting... even today I really look up to artists like Pink, Alicia Keys, Gavin DeGraw. Love the power and passion in their expressive voices.

9. How has life changed in the last year?
I'm now shifting gears to finally having a product out so I'm starting to perform a lot more as opposed to just working in studios. I love traveling to new cities, meeting new people and exposing them to my music. Performing is truly a drug.

10. Besides singing and songwriting, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Love to stay active, exercise, go hang by the beach, go out to eat at great restaurants. Nothing too crazy.

11. What are your plans for the future?
I have a lot more music in store for people and I'm really looking forward to hitting the road and performing all around the world.

12. Do you have a message to all of your supporters?
You make all the hard work and sacrifice worth it and I can't wait to grow with you and create more music for you all!


Now that you know a little more about Jared Lee, I think you better go buy his new EP Falling Through Holes, trust me, you won't regret it. Big thanks to Jared for taking the time to do this interview, and I can't wait to hear more from him.

Blast from the past: David Archuleta - Christmas From The Heart

It's safe to say that Christmas music comes early for David Archuleta, considering he's preparing to head out on his second Christmas tour and promote the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Glad Christmas Tidings CD he performs on, and today celebrates the 2 year anniversary of his Christmas album Christmas From The Heart.

Christmas From The Heart was released on October 13, 2009, selling 17,000 copies in it's first week. Filled with traditional holiday classics and joyful hymns, this album definitely shows off David's vocal prowess, as well as the apparent majestic tone in his voice as he belts out these Christmas tunes. You can just tell how much these songs mean to him, especially "Melodies of Christmas", the song David helped pen about how Christmas music is so important to the holidays.


Christmas From The Heart debuted at #30 on the Billboard 200 and #2 in Holiday Albums, behind Bob Dylan's Christmas In The Heart. Archuleta also paired up with singing sensation Charice on the classic "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

Scotty McCreery's album reaches success in the first week!

Scotty McCreery's debut album Clear As Day was released just a little over a week ago and already it's breaking records! Scotty is the youngest male artist to debut at #1 on Billboard 200 with a first album. It's also the first debut album from an American Idol winner to be #1 since Kelly Clarkson's Thankful back in 2003. Clear As Day has sold 197,000 copies in it's first week and 36K digital copies.


You can read my review of Clear As Day HERE.

Interview with band Imagine Dragons

Dan Reynolds, Wayne Sermon, Daniel Platzman, Theresa Flaminio and Ben McKee together make up the Indie rock band Imagine Dragons. After releasing two EPs in 2010, the Las Vegas-based band took off, performing at various shows and was even named "Most Requested Band of 2010" on Las Vegas radio station LOCAL 107.9FM. Now as they promote their latest EP It's Time and prepare to go for a full album, the band took the time to answers some questions about how they got their name, they best part about touring and what they think was their "lucky break".


Where did the name Imagine Dragons come from?
Dan Reynolds: Imagine Dragons is actually an anagram. That means that if you rearrange the letters it makes up a phrase that we initially came up with that had meaning to us. We are sworn to secrecy though about what it is. Our own mothers don't even get to know :)

How would you describe your music?
Dan Reynolds: Our music is probably best described and percussion-driven anthemic electro-indie rock. If we were forced to categorize it more broadly, perhaps indie/rock/pop is a good description.

Which one of your songs represents your band the most?
Dan Reynolds: That's a tough question. They all represent us in one form or another... if we had to choose one today that speaks for the band and our vision, we would probably go with "It's Time". It's a song that really encapsulates our sound and ideology.

What’s your favorite song to perform?
Ben McKee: I really like the way it feels when we perform "It's Time."  The stomps and claps just draw me into the performance right from the beginning, and the a capella vocal break really feels amazing, especially when the crowd joins in. When everyone is really on the same page, it makes you feel bigger somehow. It's awesome.

What’s the best part of touring?
Ben McKee: The best part of touring is being locked in a short bus with the band on seemingly endless journeys over the horizon to the next gig. There's something about it that makes us all ridiculous and childish. We tell riddles, play "name that song" with our ipods, or have contests to see who can stand up the longest in the middle of the bus without using their hands. Some of the freakishly tall members of the group occasionally try to cheat by using their head to balance against the roof, but we try not to make too big of a deal about it.

Favorite moment during or after a performance?
Ben McKee: My favorite part of every performance is when Wayne lets loose with his solo at the end of "Clouds". I just step back and watch him go. I'd love to be able to watch it from the audience. He's my guitar hero.

What sets you apart from other bands?
Ben McKee: I think that what sets us apart from other bands is our fans. They're crazy, and it's amazing. Every time we play a show, there are more people singing along with every song. It makes us go even more crazy on stage and there's this energy that builds until you don't know if you can take it anymore. I don't think that we could create that powerful of an experience by ourselves. It comes from everyone being willing to let go and just give in to the music without worrying about judgement or anything else. It makes it so much easier to perform, and we are all incredibly grateful for everybody that comes out to see us.

What would you say was your first lucky break?
Wayne Sermon: We were playing the local stage at the annual "Bite of Las Vegas." Our set was in the early afternoon, to a smallish but enthusiastic crowd. We played, it was fun, and thought that was that. The whole band and our manager left to grab some lunch, and our manager gets a phone call telling us to hustle back because Train had to drop out last minute, and needed a replacement. Needless to say we ordered our food to go and rushed over. We ended up playing for over 20,000 people on the mainstage. It was a huge rush and by far the biggest crowd we ever played for.

What’s in the works for the future?
Wayne Sermon: Our sights are definitely on a full length album. We're writing writing writing, narrowing in on an overall theme for the album, finding out which songs go together and what directions we want to explore. We want a cohesive message and feel to our record - we want to set a high standard for ourselves with our next release. But yeah, we have lots of new material we are super stoked about.

Message to all of your supporters?
Wayne Sermon: We just couldn't do any of this without you. Plain and simple. Thank you.


Thanks to Imagine Dragons for doing this interview, and I look forward to hearing lots of new music from them! Below you can check out the song that introduced me to Imagine Dragons, "It's Time":

Demi Lovato announces tour!!

Tickets on Sale October 14th!

11/16 Fox Theatre - Detroit, MI
11/18 The MGM Grand Theater @ Foxwoods - Mashantucket, CT
11/19 Hershey Theatre - Hershey, PA
11/22 The Midland by AMC - Kansas City, MO
11/25 Verizon Wireless Theater - Houston, TX
11/26 Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie - Grand Prairie, TX
11/27 Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts - New Orleans, LA
11/29 Peabody Opera House - St. Louis, MO
12/01 The Cobb Energy Perfroming Arts Centre - Atlanta, GA
12/03 Rosemont Theatre - Chicago, IL

Go HERE for more info!

Album Review: Enation - My Ancient Rebellion

Today the much anticipated new album from Enation is out, and it does not disappoint. My Ancient
Rebellion represents everything I love about the band: it's calm, soulful, cryptic and artistic.

Jonathan Jackson's voice is captivating and so full of emotion in these poetic tunes. Between the passionate "Tears of Hope" ballad, the meaningful
groove of "The Salvation of One" and the upbeat anthem "The Rushing Wind", those are only a few examples of the contrast and the glimpses of inspiration this album holds. Each song takes you on a journey of soul searching and makes you look at things in a different perspective.


And to add on to the excitement of the day, Enation is at Times Square in NYC checking out their About.Me billboard!

You can also read my interview from back in August with Enation HERE.