Madonna‘s “Like a Virgin” is one of the most important dance songs of the 1980s. You’d think every artist would have wanted to record it! However, other artists had major issues with the track. Things went differently when the song’s writers played it for Madonna.
Madonna’s ‘Like a Virgin’ has a major connection to Cyndi Lauper
“Like a Virgin” was written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly. They also co-wrote Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional,” The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame,” and “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper. During an interview with SongwriterUniverse, Steinberg revealed that many singers were resistant toward “Like a Virgin.”
“We tried to place ‘Like a Virgin,’ but everyone looked at us like we were nuts,” he said. “Some people even asked us to change the title. I knew that compared to most mainstream pop lyrics, the title and theme might seem a bit jolting and risque.
Madonna’s ‘Like a Virgin’ has a major connection to Cyndi Lauper
“Like a Virgin” was written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly. They also co-wrote Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional,” The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame,” and “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper. During an interview with SongwriterUniverse, Steinberg revealed that many singers were resistant toward “Like a Virgin.”
“We tried to place ‘Like a Virgin,’ but everyone looked at us like we were nuts,” he said. “Some people even asked us to change the title. I knew that compared to most mainstream pop lyrics, the title and theme might seem a bit jolting and risque.
- 5/2/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
One of the major themes of Kendrick Lamar’s new Drake diss “euphoria” is the accusation that his rap foe is a “scam artist” and “a master manipulator and habitual liar too.” As it turns out, the seemingly jumbled audio in the intro lays the groundwork by sampling dialogue from the 1978 film The Wiz.
Shortly after the song’s release on Tuesday, multiple fans clipped the brief sample and played the line backward, revealing it to be dialogue from the movie in which The Wiz (played by Richard Pryor) says, “Everything they say about me is true.” Scroll down for the reversed audio below.
For full context, Pryor’s line is taken from a scene in which his character is exposed to be Herman Smith, a washed-up politician from Atlantic City. Admitting to the deception, he says, “Everything they say about me is true. I’m a phony.”
The Genius...
Shortly after the song’s release on Tuesday, multiple fans clipped the brief sample and played the line backward, revealing it to be dialogue from the movie in which The Wiz (played by Richard Pryor) says, “Everything they say about me is true.” Scroll down for the reversed audio below.
For full context, Pryor’s line is taken from a scene in which his character is exposed to be Herman Smith, a washed-up politician from Atlantic City. Admitting to the deception, he says, “Everything they say about me is true. I’m a phony.”
The Genius...
- 5/1/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
One of the major themes of Kendrick Lamar’s new Drake diss “euphoria” is the accusation that his rap foe is a “scam artist” and “a master manipulator and habitual liar too.” As it turns out, the seemingly jumbled audio in the intro lays the groundwork by sampling dialogue from the 1978 film The Wiz.
Shortly after the song’s release on Tuesday, multiple fans clipped the brief sample and played the line backward, revealing it to be dialogue from the movie in which The Wiz (played by Richard Pryor) says, “Everything they say about me is true.” Scroll down for the reversed audio below.
For full context, Pryor’s line is taken from a scene in which his character is exposed to be Herman Smith, a washed-up politician from Atlantic City. Admitting to the deception, he says, “Everything they say about me is true. I’m a phony.”
The Genius...
Shortly after the song’s release on Tuesday, multiple fans clipped the brief sample and played the line backward, revealing it to be dialogue from the movie in which The Wiz (played by Richard Pryor) says, “Everything they say about me is true.” Scroll down for the reversed audio below.
For full context, Pryor’s line is taken from a scene in which his character is exposed to be Herman Smith, a washed-up politician from Atlantic City. Admitting to the deception, he says, “Everything they say about me is true. I’m a phony.”
The Genius...
- 5/1/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Film News
While we absolutely love scripted movies and television here at /Film, we also have a deep appreciation for documentaries — series and films alike. With so many streaming services available, it feels like there are more documentaries out there than ever before, which can make finding the right one to watch a bit intimidating. Thankfully, I'm here to help recommend some of the best docs streaming this May, from remastered versions of music classics like "Stop Making Sense" and "Let it Be" to new docs with a fresh perspective, like the shocking "Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV" and "Stormy." There has honestly been a massive influx of showbiz docs lately, with a couple more great ones dropping fresh this month. The entertainment industry has always been rife with controversy and chaos, so there's sure to be no end of these docs anytime soon. Still, this latest crop is a real doozy.
- 5/1/2024
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
For better or worse, Neverland Ranch is one of the most famous celebrity properties ever. Michael Jackson bought the ranch because of an experience he had while filming the music video for his Paul McCartney duet “Say Say Say.” “Say Say Say” stands out from his other collaborations with Paul for another reason.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Say Say Say’ was 1 of his multiple collaborations with Paul McCartney
Jermaine Jackson is the second most famous member of The Jackson 5. In his 2014 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine said his brother always wanted to collaborate with Paul. Paul wrote a song called “Girlfriend” that appeared on the album Off the Wall. In the 1980s, Paul and Michael released two hit duets together: “The Girl Is Mine” from Thriller and “Say Say Say” from Paul’s album Pipes of Peace. Only the latter has a music video.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Say Say Say’ was 1 of his multiple collaborations with Paul McCartney
Jermaine Jackson is the second most famous member of The Jackson 5. In his 2014 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine said his brother always wanted to collaborate with Paul. Paul wrote a song called “Girlfriend” that appeared on the album Off the Wall. In the 1980s, Paul and Michael released two hit duets together: “The Girl Is Mine” from Thriller and “Say Say Say” from Paul’s album Pipes of Peace. Only the latter has a music video.
- 5/1/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Mumbai, April 30 (Ians) Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana recently watched ‘Mj the Musical’, the Broadway musical based on the life of the King of pop, Michael Jackson, in New York City.
On Tuesday, the actor took to the Stories section of his Instagram and shared an image from outside of the theatre which hosted the Broadway musical.
Ayushmann was struck by a huge wave of nostalgia watching the musical unfold live. He wrote on the picture, “From dancing to Mj’s tunes as a kid to witnessing his musical live, this night at @mjthemusical at Broadway in NYC was pure nostalgia.”
Ayushmann also recently attended the Time 100 Gala where he clicked pictures with Dua Lipa, Uma Thurman and Dev Patel.
‘Mj the Musical’ features Jackson’s music with a book by Lynn Nottage, and choreography by Christopher Wheeldon.
It has been nominated for 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical. It won 4 out...
On Tuesday, the actor took to the Stories section of his Instagram and shared an image from outside of the theatre which hosted the Broadway musical.
Ayushmann was struck by a huge wave of nostalgia watching the musical unfold live. He wrote on the picture, “From dancing to Mj’s tunes as a kid to witnessing his musical live, this night at @mjthemusical at Broadway in NYC was pure nostalgia.”
Ayushmann also recently attended the Time 100 Gala where he clicked pictures with Dua Lipa, Uma Thurman and Dev Patel.
‘Mj the Musical’ features Jackson’s music with a book by Lynn Nottage, and choreography by Christopher Wheeldon.
It has been nominated for 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical. It won 4 out...
- 4/30/2024
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Exclusive: Sky has found its Mozart’s wife for Joe Barton’s upcoming Amadeus series about the world’s most famous composer.
Gabrielle Creevy, who has just wrapped Barton’s Black Doves series for Netflix, will star as Constanze opposite Will Sharpe’s Mozart. Constanze was married to Mozart from 1782 and 1791 and was also a trained Austrian singer. She and Mozart had six children, four of whom died in infancy. Upon Mozart’s death in 1791, she was left saddled with debts.
Creevy is an up-and-coming British actor who played the lead in the BBC and Hulu’s mental health dramedy In My Skin, which beat the likes of Vigil and Unforgotten to the best drama series BAFTA at the 2022 awards. She is starring alongside A-listers Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw in Black Doves and is leading Starz’ adaptation of Lisa Taddeo’s Three Women opposite Shailene Woodley.
Also starring Paul Bettany as composer Antonio Salieri,...
Gabrielle Creevy, who has just wrapped Barton’s Black Doves series for Netflix, will star as Constanze opposite Will Sharpe’s Mozart. Constanze was married to Mozart from 1782 and 1791 and was also a trained Austrian singer. She and Mozart had six children, four of whom died in infancy. Upon Mozart’s death in 1791, she was left saddled with debts.
Creevy is an up-and-coming British actor who played the lead in the BBC and Hulu’s mental health dramedy In My Skin, which beat the likes of Vigil and Unforgotten to the best drama series BAFTA at the 2022 awards. She is starring alongside A-listers Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw in Black Doves and is leading Starz’ adaptation of Lisa Taddeo’s Three Women opposite Shailene Woodley.
Also starring Paul Bettany as composer Antonio Salieri,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
After revealing behind the scenes details about how he helped bring an all-star group of musicians together to make the Grammy-winning smash hit charity single “We Are the World” in the Netflix documentary “The Greatest Night in Pop,” Lionel Richie recently spoke to IndieWire about which of the participants he knows have watched the movie, and are still reeling from the down-to-the-wire recording session.
“Huey Lewis sat next to me while I’m watching the premiere, and he leaned over to me, and he said, ‘I don’t think we’re going to make it,’” the “American Idol” judge said at an event celebrating the reveal of the current season’s Top 10 finalists. “I said, ‘Huey, it’s 39 years ago. It’s been a success.’ But how we set it up, he was a nervous wreck.”
Richie, who both produced the Sundance premiere directed by Bao Nguyen, and appears heavily in the film,...
“Huey Lewis sat next to me while I’m watching the premiere, and he leaned over to me, and he said, ‘I don’t think we’re going to make it,’” the “American Idol” judge said at an event celebrating the reveal of the current season’s Top 10 finalists. “I said, ‘Huey, it’s 39 years ago. It’s been a success.’ But how we set it up, he was a nervous wreck.”
Richie, who both produced the Sundance premiere directed by Bao Nguyen, and appears heavily in the film,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
You might think Madonna‘s first album is simply overloaded with some of the Material Girls‘ best pop songs. According to the album’s producer, you’d be wrong! He said the album actually contains prophecies. Here’s what one musician had to say about the Queen of Pop.
Madonna’s producer wanted to challenge her on her 1st album
Reggie Lucas was a producer who worked with Roberta Flack and Miles Davis. He also served as the producer on Madonna’s self-titled debut album. During a 2013 interview with The Atlantic, Lucas discussed working with the Queen of Pop. “As a producer, you understood that your first job was to support people to achieve that end,” he said. “You challenged the artist just enough to bring out the best in them and introduce them to audiences that they normally wouldn’t be introduced to.
“When I did [Madonna’s song] ‘Physical Attraction,’ that was just it,...
Madonna’s producer wanted to challenge her on her 1st album
Reggie Lucas was a producer who worked with Roberta Flack and Miles Davis. He also served as the producer on Madonna’s self-titled debut album. During a 2013 interview with The Atlantic, Lucas discussed working with the Queen of Pop. “As a producer, you understood that your first job was to support people to achieve that end,” he said. “You challenged the artist just enough to bring out the best in them and introduce them to audiences that they normally wouldn’t be introduced to.
“When I did [Madonna’s song] ‘Physical Attraction,’ that was just it,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Madonna‘s “Lucky Star” might not be as famous as “Like Virgin” or “Like a Prayer,” but it has an incredible dance groove. The song’s producer discussed what he thought of the track. He also revealed what he thought of the Queen of Pop before she was the Queen of Pop.
Madonna’s producer said the final version of ‘Lucky Star’ is barely like the original
Reggie Lucas was the producer of Madonna’s self-titled first album. While Lucas is not a household name, he had a huge influence on the style of music known as post-disco, as well as dance music as a whole. During a 2013 interview with The Atlantic, Lucas discussed working with the Material Girl on the album.
“I’d write songs and put them on a little cassette player with me singing, and I can’t sing,” he said. “I’d ask Madonna if she liked them,...
Madonna’s producer said the final version of ‘Lucky Star’ is barely like the original
Reggie Lucas was the producer of Madonna’s self-titled first album. While Lucas is not a household name, he had a huge influence on the style of music known as post-disco, as well as dance music as a whole. During a 2013 interview with The Atlantic, Lucas discussed working with the Material Girl on the album.
“I’d write songs and put them on a little cassette player with me singing, and I can’t sing,” he said. “I’d ask Madonna if she liked them,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s Thriller had more classic hits than just about any other album. However, most of those hits did not reach No. 1. Even when the King of Pop made an epic music video, a chart-topper was not guaranteed.
1. ‘Thriller’
The fact that “Thriller” didn’t hit No. 1 feels bizarre. No other music video mattered so much to American culture and yet the tune only peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. If Billboard counted sales of the video’s VHS as single sales, “Thriller” definitely would have hit No. 1.
Jackson (and Vincent Price) got the last laugh on this one. Everybody loves “Thriller.” It’s not just a popular Halloween song, it’s the Halloween song. It certainly held up a lot better than “Monster Mash.” The song’s classic video has been spoofed by everyone from Britney Spears to “Weird Al” Yankovic.
2. ‘The Girl Is Mine’
Not every song deserves to hit No.
1. ‘Thriller’
The fact that “Thriller” didn’t hit No. 1 feels bizarre. No other music video mattered so much to American culture and yet the tune only peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. If Billboard counted sales of the video’s VHS as single sales, “Thriller” definitely would have hit No. 1.
Jackson (and Vincent Price) got the last laugh on this one. Everybody loves “Thriller.” It’s not just a popular Halloween song, it’s the Halloween song. It certainly held up a lot better than “Monster Mash.” The song’s classic video has been spoofed by everyone from Britney Spears to “Weird Al” Yankovic.
2. ‘The Girl Is Mine’
Not every song deserves to hit No.
- 4/30/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Taylor Swift‘s new album “The Tortured Poets Department” was expected to be a blockbuster, but it was even more dominant than one might have expected, smashing records on the Billboard 200 and the Hot 100. Read more about her album achievements here and her singles achievements here on Billboard.com.
“Tortured Poets” achieved an astonishing 2.61 million equivalent album units (the second most ever recorded since Billboard started measuring equivalent album units in 2014) based on its combined record sales, individual track sales and online streams. Of that total, traditional album sales accounted for 1.914 million (the third largest sales week since Luminate started tracking in 1991). Streaming accounted for 683,000 units (the biggest streaming week of all time).
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But wait, there’s more. This also marks her 14th number-one album, which ties her with Jay-Z for the second most number-ones of all time and the most for a solo artist.
“Tortured Poets” achieved an astonishing 2.61 million equivalent album units (the second most ever recorded since Billboard started measuring equivalent album units in 2014) based on its combined record sales, individual track sales and online streams. Of that total, traditional album sales accounted for 1.914 million (the third largest sales week since Luminate started tracking in 1991). Streaming accounted for 683,000 units (the biggest streaming week of all time).
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But wait, there’s more. This also marks her 14th number-one album, which ties her with Jay-Z for the second most number-ones of all time and the most for a solo artist.
- 4/29/2024
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Mumbai, April 29 (Ians) National award-winning music composer Devi Sri Prasad, who is gearing up for two big releases — ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ and ‘Kanguva’ — has shared the process behind creating foot-tapping dance numbers that enjoy commercial success.
The composer told Ians that he is a huge dance enthusiast and keeps dancing throughout the process of making songs in his studio.
On International Dance Day (April 29), Prasad shared that he first imagines what kind of dance would suit a song that he has been briefed for. Once he cracks the steps in broad strokes, he goes all out in terms of tune, rhythm, and programming of the song.
‘Rockstar Dsp’, as Prasad is known to his fans, told Ians, “Even before we come to know about music, we inherently know about dance. A toddler expresses his happiness by dancing and jumping with no sense of melody or rhythm. That’s why...
The composer told Ians that he is a huge dance enthusiast and keeps dancing throughout the process of making songs in his studio.
On International Dance Day (April 29), Prasad shared that he first imagines what kind of dance would suit a song that he has been briefed for. Once he cracks the steps in broad strokes, he goes all out in terms of tune, rhythm, and programming of the song.
‘Rockstar Dsp’, as Prasad is known to his fans, told Ians, “Even before we come to know about music, we inherently know about dance. A toddler expresses his happiness by dancing and jumping with no sense of melody or rhythm. That’s why...
- 4/29/2024
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
10 Iconic Dance Numbers in the Millennium ( Photo Credit – YouTube )
Hindi Film Music has witnessed paradigm changes in the Millennium. Songs are now promo tools and barely situational, and lip-sync numbers predominantly dance songs. On International Dance Day (April 29), I choose the 10 truly magnificent dance numbers that will always live on. And yes, I have not included Naacho Naacho from Rrr as it was technically not a Hindi movie!
Budtameez Dil / Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
Ranbir Kapoor outdid himself in this song, reviving memories of his father, Rishi Kapoor’s mastery of dance! The musical was enriched immeasurably by this by Benny Dayal-Shefali Alvares song, composed by Pritam with delightfully crazy lyrics (Paan mein pudina dekha) by Amitabh Bhattacharya. And if you thought the dance had a hint of Michael Jackson, please remember that legend was its choreographer Remo D’Souza’s idol.
Chikni Chameli / Agneepath
The Maharashtrian folk lavani form alights...
Hindi Film Music has witnessed paradigm changes in the Millennium. Songs are now promo tools and barely situational, and lip-sync numbers predominantly dance songs. On International Dance Day (April 29), I choose the 10 truly magnificent dance numbers that will always live on. And yes, I have not included Naacho Naacho from Rrr as it was technically not a Hindi movie!
Budtameez Dil / Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
Ranbir Kapoor outdid himself in this song, reviving memories of his father, Rishi Kapoor’s mastery of dance! The musical was enriched immeasurably by this by Benny Dayal-Shefali Alvares song, composed by Pritam with delightfully crazy lyrics (Paan mein pudina dekha) by Amitabh Bhattacharya. And if you thought the dance had a hint of Michael Jackson, please remember that legend was its choreographer Remo D’Souza’s idol.
Chikni Chameli / Agneepath
The Maharashtrian folk lavani form alights...
- 4/29/2024
- by Rajiv Vijayakar
- KoiMoi
Madonna‘s songs could get edgy, but one draws lyrics from a famous nursery rhyme. Most other pop stars would sound ridiculous singing such lyrics, but the Material Girl knew what she was doing. Madonna worked with a great producer to bring the song to life. He revealed what he thought of the Queen of Pop during the early days of her career.
Madonna’s songs where originally more family-friendly
Madonna really started getting risque when she put out her hit “Like a Virgin” in 1984. By the early 1990s, she released a book called Sex, an album called Erotica, and a kinky thriller called Body of Evidence. However, when she started her career, the Queen of Pop’s image was more family-friendly. Her first album, Madonna, could be considered a bubblegum pop album.
Perhaps its most bubblegum song is “Lucky Star.” The track repeatedly uses the line “starlight / star bright” from “Twinkle,...
Madonna’s songs where originally more family-friendly
Madonna really started getting risque when she put out her hit “Like a Virgin” in 1984. By the early 1990s, she released a book called Sex, an album called Erotica, and a kinky thriller called Body of Evidence. However, when she started her career, the Queen of Pop’s image was more family-friendly. Her first album, Madonna, could be considered a bubblegum pop album.
Perhaps its most bubblegum song is “Lucky Star.” The track repeatedly uses the line “starlight / star bright” from “Twinkle,...
- 4/29/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s Bad has more great songs on it than most singers will produce over their entire careers. Quincy Jones revealed which track from Bad became the most prominent. He gave fans some insight into the creation of the song. Notably, the song was part of a major musical movement from the time period.
What Quincy Jones told Michael Jackson to do with ‘Bad’
In 1982, Jackson released Thriller, the defining album of his career and one of the most popular albums of all time. The record included classic tracks such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Human Nature,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing).” Following up an album like that would be difficult for anyone, even someone as talented as the King of Pop. Jackson took five years to release his next album, Bad. Bad became a blockbuster in its own right and some...
What Quincy Jones told Michael Jackson to do with ‘Bad’
In 1982, Jackson released Thriller, the defining album of his career and one of the most popular albums of all time. The record included classic tracks such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Human Nature,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing).” Following up an album like that would be difficult for anyone, even someone as talented as the King of Pop. Jackson took five years to release his next album, Bad. Bad became a blockbuster in its own right and some...
- 4/29/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Bad” and Ghostbusters are two quintessential elements of 1980s popular culture. With that in mind, it only makes sense that “Bad” has a connection to Ray Parker Jr.’s theme song for the first Ghostbusters movie. Notably, a famous musician discussed his experience working with the King of Pop on the album Bad.
The similarity between Ray Parker Jr.’s ‘Ghostbusters’ and Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad’
Jackson made history when five of the singles from his album Bad topped the Billboard Hot 100. Those songs were “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Dirty Diana,” “Man in the Mirror,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and the album’s title track. The latter might be the most famous song from the album today, partially due to its epic music video.
Part of why “Bad” is so appealing is its funky groove. If you listen to it, it has...
The similarity between Ray Parker Jr.’s ‘Ghostbusters’ and Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad’
Jackson made history when five of the singles from his album Bad topped the Billboard Hot 100. Those songs were “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Dirty Diana,” “Man in the Mirror,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and the album’s title track. The latter might be the most famous song from the album today, partially due to its epic music video.
Part of why “Bad” is so appealing is its funky groove. If you listen to it, it has...
- 4/28/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Pet Shop Boys vocalist Neil Tennant shared his thoughts on Taylor Swift‘s musical legacy, drawing comparisons to Michael Jackson’s iconic status.
While he acknowledged his admiration for much of Swift’s music, Tennant expressed his belief that she has yet to produce a standout single that can rival the star power of Jackson’s “Billie Jean.”
“Taylor Swift sort of fascinates me as a phenomenon because she’s so popular, and I sort of quite like the whole thing, but then when I listen to the records … for a phenomenon as big, where are the famous songs?” Tennant told a panel discussion organized by The Guardian in London. “What’s Taylor Swift’s ‘Billie Jean’?”
While Tennant acknowledged Swift’s exceptional vocal abilities and the exquisite production of her music, he felt that, melodically, it lacked dynamism. “She’s got a great voice, and the production is beautiful,...
While he acknowledged his admiration for much of Swift’s music, Tennant expressed his belief that she has yet to produce a standout single that can rival the star power of Jackson’s “Billie Jean.”
“Taylor Swift sort of fascinates me as a phenomenon because she’s so popular, and I sort of quite like the whole thing, but then when I listen to the records … for a phenomenon as big, where are the famous songs?” Tennant told a panel discussion organized by The Guardian in London. “What’s Taylor Swift’s ‘Billie Jean’?”
While Tennant acknowledged Swift’s exceptional vocal abilities and the exquisite production of her music, he felt that, melodically, it lacked dynamism. “She’s got a great voice, and the production is beautiful,...
- 4/27/2024
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson’s “Scream” is often cited as the most expensive music video ever made. The director of the video hates this claim. He said that one Guns N’ Roses clip and another clip from the King of Pop cost way more.
Michael Jackson ‘Scream’ cost millions but it’s not the most expensive music video ever
Mark Romanek directed the music video for “Scream.” He also helmed the videos for Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” and Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off.” During a 2010 interview with Slashfilm, Romanek acknowledged that The Guinness Book of World Records claims “Scream” is the most expensive music video ever made due to its hefty $7 million price tag. Romanek said the book isn’t accurate.
Romanek said Guns N’ Roses made a video with oil tankers that cost $9 million or $10 million. The director couldn’t remember the name of Guns N’ Roses’ song,...
Michael Jackson ‘Scream’ cost millions but it’s not the most expensive music video ever
Mark Romanek directed the music video for “Scream.” He also helmed the videos for Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” and Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off.” During a 2010 interview with Slashfilm, Romanek acknowledged that The Guinness Book of World Records claims “Scream” is the most expensive music video ever made due to its hefty $7 million price tag. Romanek said the book isn’t accurate.
Romanek said Guns N’ Roses made a video with oil tankers that cost $9 million or $10 million. The director couldn’t remember the name of Guns N’ Roses’ song,...
- 4/27/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Helping children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships
Celebrity supporters
Big Brothers Big Sisters has 10 known supporters, including Michael Jackson, Tim Allen, and Hill Harper
Areas of work ChildrenAt-Risk/Disadvantaged Youths Read more about Big Brothers Big Sisters's work and celebrity supporters. Related articles Hill Harper Becomes A Scholarship NamesakeBarry Manilow To Play Concerts For 25 CharitiesICAP To Hold 17th Annual Charity DaySamuel L. Jackson To Lead Celebrity Charity Golf TournamentKathy Ireland To Be Honored For Charity Work
Are you organizing an event which celebrities will attend? Tell us about it so we can spread the word!
Copyright © 2024 Look To The Stars. This article may not be reproduced without explicit written permission; if you are not reading this via email or in your news reader, the site you are viewing is illegally infringing our copyright, and we would be grateful if you would contact us.
Celebrity supporters
Big Brothers Big Sisters has 10 known supporters, including Michael Jackson, Tim Allen, and Hill Harper
Areas of work ChildrenAt-Risk/Disadvantaged Youths Read more about Big Brothers Big Sisters's work and celebrity supporters. Related articles Hill Harper Becomes A Scholarship NamesakeBarry Manilow To Play Concerts For 25 CharitiesICAP To Hold 17th Annual Charity DaySamuel L. Jackson To Lead Celebrity Charity Golf TournamentKathy Ireland To Be Honored For Charity Work
Are you organizing an event which celebrities will attend? Tell us about it so we can spread the word!
Copyright © 2024 Look To The Stars. This article may not be reproduced without explicit written permission; if you are not reading this via email or in your news reader, the site you are viewing is illegally infringing our copyright, and we would be grateful if you would contact us.
- 4/26/2024
- Look to the Stars
Michael Jackson‘s “Billie Jean” deeply impressed an important R&b musician. He said that the track could have been transformed into 12 different hit songs if Jackson had divided it up in a certain way. The R&b icon discussed how he tries to find songs similar to “Billie Jean” every day.
An R&b maetro explained why ‘Billie Jean’ is Michael Jackson’s masterpiece
Antonio “L.A.” Reid is a major pop/R&b producer. He has worked with stars like Boys II Men, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton. In a 2011 essay he wrote for Rolling Stone, he said the King of Pop was the best entertainer of all time, comparing him to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Reid recalled seeing The Jackson 5 at a state fair when he was young. Reid recalled Jackson’s voice resonating throughout the fairground.
“‘Billie Jean’ is the most important record he made,...
An R&b maetro explained why ‘Billie Jean’ is Michael Jackson’s masterpiece
Antonio “L.A.” Reid is a major pop/R&b producer. He has worked with stars like Boys II Men, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton. In a 2011 essay he wrote for Rolling Stone, he said the King of Pop was the best entertainer of all time, comparing him to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Reid recalled seeing The Jackson 5 at a state fair when he was young. Reid recalled Jackson’s voice resonating throughout the fairground.
“‘Billie Jean’ is the most important record he made,...
- 4/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Blood on the Dance Floor” is one of the most underrated songs of the “Thriller” singer‘s career. While the song’s funky instrumental is fascinatingly dark, the song’s backstory is even darker. The song’s producer revealed that the King of Pop wasn’t even aware of the creepy coincidence behind “Blood on the Dance Floor.”
The connection between Michael Jackson’s ‘Blood on the Dance Floor’ and a shooting
In the 1990s, the “Man in the Mirror” star started experimenting with the R&b subgenre known as new jack swing. Who better to help him than Teddy Riley, the lead singer of the band Blackstreet? Riley worked with Jackson on the final three studio albums the King of Pop released in his lifetime — Dangerous, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, and Invincible — as well as the remix album Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix.
The connection between Michael Jackson’s ‘Blood on the Dance Floor’ and a shooting
In the 1990s, the “Man in the Mirror” star started experimenting with the R&b subgenre known as new jack swing. Who better to help him than Teddy Riley, the lead singer of the band Blackstreet? Riley worked with Jackson on the final three studio albums the King of Pop released in his lifetime — Dangerous, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, and Invincible — as well as the remix album Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix.
- 4/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Pet Shop Boys vocalist Neil Tennant has questioned whether Taylor Swift has a song as “famous” as Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.”
During a conversation with The Guardian’s head rock and pop critic Alexis Petridisi livestreamed earlier this week, the topic turned to the ubiquitous pop star. While Tennant admitted Swift is a compelling figure, the singer said he finds her actual music “disappointing.”
Get Taylor Swift Tickets Here
“Taylor Swift sort of fascinates me as a phenomenon because she’s so popular and I sort of quite like the whole thing,” Tennant said. “But then when I listen to the records — we both have the same feeling actually — for a phenomenon as big [as she is]… where are the famous songs? What is Taylor Swift’s ‘Billie Jean’?”
After an audience member brought up “Shake It Off,” Tennant responded: “Is it though? No, ’cause I actually even know that that’s the answer,...
During a conversation with The Guardian’s head rock and pop critic Alexis Petridisi livestreamed earlier this week, the topic turned to the ubiquitous pop star. While Tennant admitted Swift is a compelling figure, the singer said he finds her actual music “disappointing.”
Get Taylor Swift Tickets Here
“Taylor Swift sort of fascinates me as a phenomenon because she’s so popular and I sort of quite like the whole thing,” Tennant said. “But then when I listen to the records — we both have the same feeling actually — for a phenomenon as big [as she is]… where are the famous songs? What is Taylor Swift’s ‘Billie Jean’?”
After an audience member brought up “Shake It Off,” Tennant responded: “Is it though? No, ’cause I actually even know that that’s the answer,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
The Beatles were the best rock ‘n’ roll band ever, but there was one way in which Michael Jackson surpassed them. The King of Pop was simply a better entertainer than the Fab Four. That is not to say he always made superior music — but the “Thriller” singer had some gifts that The Beatles did not.
1 way Michael Jackson’s era was better than The Beatles’
The Beatles gave the world many of the best and most innovative pop songs of all time, including “Tomorrow Never Knows,” “Strawberry Fields Forever,” and “A Day in the Life.” However, their live performances never quite lived up to the magic they made in the studio. They would play professionally, but they weren’t much for razzle-dazzle. They were a band of their time. The Beatles stopped making music before 1970s acts like David Bowie, Kiss, and Alice Cooper revolutionized live shows and made them more theatrical.
1 way Michael Jackson’s era was better than The Beatles’
The Beatles gave the world many of the best and most innovative pop songs of all time, including “Tomorrow Never Knows,” “Strawberry Fields Forever,” and “A Day in the Life.” However, their live performances never quite lived up to the magic they made in the studio. They would play professionally, but they weren’t much for razzle-dazzle. They were a band of their time. The Beatles stopped making music before 1970s acts like David Bowie, Kiss, and Alice Cooper revolutionized live shows and made them more theatrical.
- 4/25/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Britney Spears is one of numerous female pop stars who will be forever compared to Madonna. Fascinatingly, Spears said two of Madonna’s songs sound timeless to her. The two songs have nothing in common.
Britney Spears called 2 Madonna songs ‘iconic’ in an essay she wrote for Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone ranked Madonna No. 36 on their list of the best artists of all time. As part of that article, the “… Baby One More Time” star explained why she admires the Queen of Pop. “Madonna was the first female pop star to take control of every aspect of her career and to take responsibility for creating her image, no matter how much flak she might get,” she wrote. “She’s proved that she can do so many different things — music and movies and being a parent, too.
“Her music has become iconic: Songs like ‘Holiday’ or ‘Live to Tell’ are timeless — not just disposable hits,...
Britney Spears called 2 Madonna songs ‘iconic’ in an essay she wrote for Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone ranked Madonna No. 36 on their list of the best artists of all time. As part of that article, the “… Baby One More Time” star explained why she admires the Queen of Pop. “Madonna was the first female pop star to take control of every aspect of her career and to take responsibility for creating her image, no matter how much flak she might get,” she wrote. “She’s proved that she can do so many different things — music and movies and being a parent, too.
“Her music has become iconic: Songs like ‘Holiday’ or ‘Live to Tell’ are timeless — not just disposable hits,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After five long years, “Have a Nice Day” director Liu Jian returns to New York with his newest project, “Art College 1994.” This hotly-anticipated feature checks off all the boxes. It cements Liu Jian's stamp as a rising animation auteur in China; it marks the completed its world tour at Berlinale, Annecy, New York Asian Film Festival, and more; and, what's more, the film features a star-studded voice cast that spans intellectuals, musicians, and other movie directors, including Jia Zhangke and Bi Gan.
Here, we catch a glimpse of a group of students at the Chinese Southern Academy of the Arts. Like many students, they seem to be suspended in a daze of malaise, and of them, Zhang Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) is especially lost. His best friend, Rabbit (Shaoxing), encourages Xiaojun to expand his practice to conceptual art. His crush, the soft-spoken piano student Hao Lili (Zhou Dongyu), is swayed by...
Here, we catch a glimpse of a group of students at the Chinese Southern Academy of the Arts. Like many students, they seem to be suspended in a daze of malaise, and of them, Zhang Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) is especially lost. His best friend, Rabbit (Shaoxing), encourages Xiaojun to expand his practice to conceptual art. His crush, the soft-spoken piano student Hao Lili (Zhou Dongyu), is swayed by...
- 4/24/2024
- by Grace Han
- AsianMoviePulse
Acclaimed writer John Logan will adapt Pulitzer Prize-winning author Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian” novel into a feature film for director John Hillcoat.
Hillcoat is also producing along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. Cormac McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer, while Cormac, who died in June 2023, will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
“It’s incredibly exciting to have John Logan on board,” John Francis said. “Very reassuring in the seemingly long list of good news concerning what was originally such an intimidating undertaking.”
The project was originally set up with director James Franco and star Russell Crowe in 2016, but fell apart over rights to the book.
Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, “Blood Meridian” follows the journey of the Kid, a fourteen-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.
Logan, a three-time Oscar nominee,...
Hillcoat is also producing along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. Cormac McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer, while Cormac, who died in June 2023, will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
“It’s incredibly exciting to have John Logan on board,” John Francis said. “Very reassuring in the seemingly long list of good news concerning what was originally such an intimidating undertaking.”
The project was originally set up with director James Franco and star Russell Crowe in 2016, but fell apart over rights to the book.
Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, “Blood Meridian” follows the journey of the Kid, a fourteen-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.
Logan, a three-time Oscar nominee,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar-nominated screenwriter John Logan has come aboard New Regency’s adaptation of the Cormac McCarthy novel Blood Meridian.
Logan, whose credits include Skyfall, The Aviator, Gladiator, and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, joins previously announced director John Hillcoat on the project.
Hillcoat will produce alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son John Francis McCarthy will serve as executive producer, and Cormac McCarthy will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
Blood Meridian is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s and follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the...
Logan, whose credits include Skyfall, The Aviator, Gladiator, and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, joins previously announced director John Hillcoat on the project.
Hillcoat will produce alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son John Francis McCarthy will serve as executive producer, and Cormac McCarthy will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
Blood Meridian is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s and follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the...
- 4/24/2024
- ScreenDaily
Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian” has been one of the trickiest classic novels to adapt for the screen, but it now has a three-time Oscar nominee who may finally crack it.
John Logan, the writer of “Gladiator,” “The Aviator,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Skyfall,” and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” has been tapped to adapt “Blood Meridian” into a feature film.
Last year, New Regency announced it was developing a feature film based on the 1985 Western novel, and the studio attached John Hillcoat — who previously directed McCarthy’s “The Road” — to direct the film. Hillcoat is also directing and producing “Blood Meridian” alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency.
Cormac McCarthy is getting a posthumous executive producer credit on the film, and his son John Francis McCarthy is also serving as an EP.
“Blood Meridian” is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s. The story follows the journey of The Kid,...
John Logan, the writer of “Gladiator,” “The Aviator,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Skyfall,” and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” has been tapped to adapt “Blood Meridian” into a feature film.
Last year, New Regency announced it was developing a feature film based on the 1985 Western novel, and the studio attached John Hillcoat — who previously directed McCarthy’s “The Road” — to direct the film. Hillcoat is also directing and producing “Blood Meridian” alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency.
Cormac McCarthy is getting a posthumous executive producer credit on the film, and his son John Francis McCarthy is also serving as an EP.
“Blood Meridian” is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s. The story follows the journey of The Kid,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
John Logan — the writer behind Aviator and James Bond movie Skyfall — has been tapped to adapt Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian for New Regency.
The synopsis for the Western, known for its descriptive violence, reads: “Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, the story follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.”
As previously announced, John Hillcoat, who directed McCarthy adaptation The Road, will helm. Hillcoat will produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer with McCarthy receiving a posthumous credit.
Said Morgan, “Blood Meridian has been one of my favorite novels since first reading it in 1985. It’s a majestic, beautiful and uncompromising book and I’m thrilled to be able to help bring Cormac McCarthy’s dark masterpiece to the screen.
The synopsis for the Western, known for its descriptive violence, reads: “Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, the story follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.”
As previously announced, John Hillcoat, who directed McCarthy adaptation The Road, will helm. Hillcoat will produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer with McCarthy receiving a posthumous credit.
Said Morgan, “Blood Meridian has been one of my favorite novels since first reading it in 1985. It’s a majestic, beautiful and uncompromising book and I’m thrilled to be able to help bring Cormac McCarthy’s dark masterpiece to the screen.
- 4/24/2024
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Three time Oscar-nominated scribe John Logan is adapting National Book Award-winning author Cormac McCarthy’s novel Blood Meridian or The Evening Redness in the West for the big screen for New Regency.
John Hillcoat, who previously adapted McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Road, will direct and produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency.
The sprawling novel is widely considered one of the greatest works of American literature. Published in 1985, Blood Meridian or The Evening Redness in the West is an epic tale of the violence and depravity that attended America’s westward expansion which brilliantly subverts the conventions of the Western novel and the mythology of the Wild West. Based on historical events that took place on the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, it traces the fortunes of a 14-year-old Tennesseean who stumbles into a nightmarish world where Indians are being murdered and the market for their scalps is thriving.
John Hillcoat, who previously adapted McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Road, will direct and produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency.
The sprawling novel is widely considered one of the greatest works of American literature. Published in 1985, Blood Meridian or The Evening Redness in the West is an epic tale of the violence and depravity that attended America’s westward expansion which brilliantly subverts the conventions of the Western novel and the mythology of the Wild West. Based on historical events that took place on the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, it traces the fortunes of a 14-year-old Tennesseean who stumbles into a nightmarish world where Indians are being murdered and the market for their scalps is thriving.
- 4/24/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Jennifer Garner, Mark Ruffalo and Judy Greer reunited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of 13 Going on 30.
The trio shared on social media a video of the three of them reminiscing about the rom-com, which premiered in 2004.
“We are three Boomers braving zoom—because we want to thank you,” read the caption of the Instagram video. “To every person who has loved this movie along with us: Thank You. We see you, we appreciate you and we love you back. Forever thirty, flirty and thriving!”
“Twenty years ago, we were just on little — did we have — we had cell phones,” Garner said of the technological advances since the movie dropped at the turn of the century.
Ruffalo, who has played Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, says he gets “way more 13 Going on 30” people saying, “There’s two types of people in this world. There’s Hulk people, and there’s 13 Going on 30 people,...
The trio shared on social media a video of the three of them reminiscing about the rom-com, which premiered in 2004.
“We are three Boomers braving zoom—because we want to thank you,” read the caption of the Instagram video. “To every person who has loved this movie along with us: Thank You. We see you, we appreciate you and we love you back. Forever thirty, flirty and thriving!”
“Twenty years ago, we were just on little — did we have — we had cell phones,” Garner said of the technological advances since the movie dropped at the turn of the century.
Ruffalo, who has played Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, says he gets “way more 13 Going on 30” people saying, “There’s two types of people in this world. There’s Hulk people, and there’s 13 Going on 30 people,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Many of Michael Jackson‘s posthumously released songs are available on streaming. Three were removed. One member of Jackson’s family questioned their authenticity.
La Toya Jackson said some Michael Jackson songs removed from streaming are fishy
Jackson’s musical legacy is still being felt after his death in major ways. Following his death, the King of Pop’s estate put out two albums of previously unreleased material: 2010’s Michael and 2014’s Xscape. Some of the songs from Michael turned heads due to allegations the vocalist singing them was not Jackson.
According to NPR, Jackson’s sister, La Toya, once sewed seeds of doubt. “I am shocked that things have gotten this far,” she tweeted. “This is ridiculous. I was at the studio when these questionable files were delivered. I heard these ‘so-called’ Michael Jackson songs raw and without the distraction of the well-produced music by Teddy Riley. How they...
La Toya Jackson said some Michael Jackson songs removed from streaming are fishy
Jackson’s musical legacy is still being felt after his death in major ways. Following his death, the King of Pop’s estate put out two albums of previously unreleased material: 2010’s Michael and 2014’s Xscape. Some of the songs from Michael turned heads due to allegations the vocalist singing them was not Jackson.
According to NPR, Jackson’s sister, La Toya, once sewed seeds of doubt. “I am shocked that things have gotten this far,” she tweeted. “This is ridiculous. I was at the studio when these questionable files were delivered. I heard these ‘so-called’ Michael Jackson songs raw and without the distraction of the well-produced music by Teddy Riley. How they...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Part of why Michael Jackson‘s “Man in the Mirror” is so powerful is that the King of Pop had an incredible singing voice. Despite that, he was trying to sound like another 1980s singer. That singer revealed what she thought when she learned Jackson was trying so hard to sound like her.
The writer of Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ tells her story
Siedah Garrett co-wrote “Man in the Mirror,” which might be Jackson’s most famous ballad. During an interview with Blue Railroad, Garrett said that Jackson wanted to sound like Garrett when he recorded the song. “That was such a high compliment,” Garrett said. “We’d finished the part we had to fix on the duet so I was getting ready to leave. I was packing up and he said, ‘Where you goin?’ I said, ‘Aren’t we done? Isn’t this history, dude?’
“He said,...
The writer of Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ tells her story
Siedah Garrett co-wrote “Man in the Mirror,” which might be Jackson’s most famous ballad. During an interview with Blue Railroad, Garrett said that Jackson wanted to sound like Garrett when he recorded the song. “That was such a high compliment,” Garrett said. “We’d finished the part we had to fix on the duet so I was getting ready to leave. I was packing up and he said, ‘Where you goin?’ I said, ‘Aren’t we done? Isn’t this history, dude?’
“He said,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” isn’t a spooky song like “Thriller,” but it still made Quincy Jones nervous. One of Jackson’s collaborators explained why. She also said the King of Pop was not who the media portrayed him to be.
Michael Jackson’s ‘I Just Can’t Stop Loving You’ has a connection to ‘Man in the Mirror’
Siedah Garrett is a singer who will always be mentioned in the same breath as the King of Pop. Her two most famous songs are from Jackson’s album Bad. One is “Man in the Mirror,” which she co-wrote. The other is the pop ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” a duet between her and the “Thriller” star.
While “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” seems innocuous, Garrett told Blue Railroad that Jones had an issue with it. “Quincy said he listened...
Michael Jackson’s ‘I Just Can’t Stop Loving You’ has a connection to ‘Man in the Mirror’
Siedah Garrett is a singer who will always be mentioned in the same breath as the King of Pop. Her two most famous songs are from Jackson’s album Bad. One is “Man in the Mirror,” which she co-wrote. The other is the pop ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” a duet between her and the “Thriller” star.
While “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” seems innocuous, Garrett told Blue Railroad that Jones had an issue with it. “Quincy said he listened...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Madonna released more hits than just about anyone but not all of them are vocally challenging. Despite this, her co-writer said one of her hits proves the Material Girl has the best singing voice ever. He also revealed what he thinks of people who don’t see her as a real artist.
Madonna’s songwriter said 1 hit proved she could singer better than these rock stars
Though he is not a household name, Patrick Leonard is one of the most important songwriters in pop history. He worked with Madonna on many of her best songs from the 1980s and 1990s, including “Like a Prayer,” “La Isla Bonita,” “Live to Tell,” “Cherish,” and “Frozen.” During a 2017 interview with Boy Culture, the songwriter said he was upset by critics who felt Madonna was not a real artist, whatever that means.
“There’s people with a more controlled voice — the word ‘better’ is not fair,...
Madonna’s songwriter said 1 hit proved she could singer better than these rock stars
Though he is not a household name, Patrick Leonard is one of the most important songwriters in pop history. He worked with Madonna on many of her best songs from the 1980s and 1990s, including “Like a Prayer,” “La Isla Bonita,” “Live to Tell,” “Cherish,” and “Frozen.” During a 2017 interview with Boy Culture, the songwriter said he was upset by critics who felt Madonna was not a real artist, whatever that means.
“There’s people with a more controlled voice — the word ‘better’ is not fair,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Michael Jackson biopic movie Michael, being directed by Antoine Fuqua from a script by John Logan, has been ramping up on the casting front since Deadline first broke the story of the project in January 2023. The film is underway on production ahead of an April 18, 2025 release date via Lionsgate and Universal.
The film will focus on Jackson’s career highlights beginning with the days he fronted the Jackson 5 to becoming the world’s biggest star but also deal with the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50.
Casting started at the beginning. when Fuqua and producer Graham King tapped Jackson’s nephew and Jermaine Jackson’s son Jaafar to portray Michael in the singer’s prime. Juliano Krue Valdi has been set as the young Michael.
Fuqua said he’s been “blown away” by Jaafar’s resemblance to the King of Pop,...
The film will focus on Jackson’s career highlights beginning with the days he fronted the Jackson 5 to becoming the world’s biggest star but also deal with the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50.
Casting started at the beginning. when Fuqua and producer Graham King tapped Jackson’s nephew and Jermaine Jackson’s son Jaafar to portray Michael in the singer’s prime. Juliano Krue Valdi has been set as the young Michael.
Fuqua said he’s been “blown away” by Jaafar’s resemblance to the King of Pop,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Robert Lang
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher) is the latest addition to Michael, the Michael Jackson biopic that Antoine Fuqua is directing for Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International, sources tell Deadline.
The actor will play famed attorney Johnnie Cochran, who repped Jackson in a 1993 child molestation case that was settled out of court. As previously announced, Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson leads the ensemble as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier and Juliano Krue Valdi among others set for key roles.
Scripted by by John Logan, Michael promises to bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. Pic will also...
The actor will play famed attorney Johnnie Cochran, who repped Jackson in a 1993 child molestation case that was settled out of court. As previously announced, Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson leads the ensemble as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier and Juliano Krue Valdi among others set for key roles.
Scripted by by John Logan, Michael promises to bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. Pic will also...
- 4/23/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
College can be a time of great change in one's life: going it alone for the first time in training for the real world. The inclusion of the year in the title of Liu Jian's third feature “Art College 1994” is necessary in that it sets the scene for a changing time in China in terms of pop culture and, of course, art.
Art College 1994 is screening this Friday, April 26 in Metrograph, for an exclusive Week-Long NY Theatrical Run
Two roommates, Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) and Zhifei (Chizi) are art students who spend their days procrastinating, discussing the philosophy of art and the changing scene from classic to Western-influenced modern. Similarly, vocal student Hong (Papi) and piano student Lili (Zhou Dongyu) discuss their futures and possible marriages.
The two pairs mingle, with potential romantic liaisons hinted at, though their hypothetical, philosophical conversations play out in reality, as they come to...
Art College 1994 is screening this Friday, April 26 in Metrograph, for an exclusive Week-Long NY Theatrical Run
Two roommates, Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) and Zhifei (Chizi) are art students who spend their days procrastinating, discussing the philosophy of art and the changing scene from classic to Western-influenced modern. Similarly, vocal student Hong (Papi) and piano student Lili (Zhou Dongyu) discuss their futures and possible marriages.
The two pairs mingle, with potential romantic liaisons hinted at, though their hypothetical, philosophical conversations play out in reality, as they come to...
- 4/23/2024
- by Andrew Thayne
- AsianMoviePulse
Michael Jackson‘s “Man in the Mirror” is the rare pop song with a great message — a message Jesus Christ might have liked. In fact, the song seems like a paraphrase of one of the most famous passages from the gospels. Here’s a look at the spiritual dimensions of one of Jackson’s best ballads.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ is like the Sermon on the Mount
Some of Jesus Christ’s most famous teachings are in his Sermon on the Mount. Some of these statements are certainly challenging! “Do not judge, or you too will be judged,” Jesus says in Matthew 7. “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?...
Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ is like the Sermon on the Mount
Some of Jesus Christ’s most famous teachings are in his Sermon on the Mount. Some of these statements are certainly challenging! “Do not judge, or you too will be judged,” Jesus says in Matthew 7. “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?...
- 4/23/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s Bad includes many of his most impressive songs. The writer of one of the album’s songs said it came from God. That’s fascinating, considering that the music video for the tune includes images of some of the most famous religious leaders who ever lived.
Michael Jackson knew a song from ‘Bad’ came from God even though nobody told him that
“Man in the Mirror” was co-written by Siedah Garrett. Grett might be most known for duetting with the King of Pop on his hit ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” During an interview with Blue Railroad, she said “Man in the Mirror” came from God. Despite this, she didn’t directly tell Jackson about its origins.
“My answer to him was that ‘I asked for it,'” she said. “I didn’t mention God because I didn’t know where he was as far as religion goes.
Michael Jackson knew a song from ‘Bad’ came from God even though nobody told him that
“Man in the Mirror” was co-written by Siedah Garrett. Grett might be most known for duetting with the King of Pop on his hit ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” During an interview with Blue Railroad, she said “Man in the Mirror” came from God. Despite this, she didn’t directly tell Jackson about its origins.
“My answer to him was that ‘I asked for it,'” she said. “I didn’t mention God because I didn’t know where he was as far as religion goes.
- 4/23/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Before Michael Jackson was a pop star in his own right, millions of Americans knew him as the lead vocalist on The Jackson 5’s “ABC.” The tune made history because of its title. Jackson released two other songs that made history for the exact same reason.
The Jackson 5’s ‘ABC’ is tied for the No. 1 single with the shortest title
Many companies measure the success of popular songs but Billboard is the most famous. When people say a song is “a No. 1 hit,” they are likely saying that the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. With The Jackson 5 and as a solo artist, Jackson was no stranger to success on the Billboard Hot 100.
Several songs are tied for having the shortest title on the Billboard Hot 100. They all have three characters in their names. Those songs include The Jackson 5’s “ABC,” Frankie Avalon’s “Why,” Edwin Starr’s “War,...
The Jackson 5’s ‘ABC’ is tied for the No. 1 single with the shortest title
Many companies measure the success of popular songs but Billboard is the most famous. When people say a song is “a No. 1 hit,” they are likely saying that the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. With The Jackson 5 and as a solo artist, Jackson was no stranger to success on the Billboard Hot 100.
Several songs are tied for having the shortest title on the Billboard Hot 100. They all have three characters in their names. Those songs include The Jackson 5’s “ABC,” Frankie Avalon’s “Why,” Edwin Starr’s “War,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
I've always been obsessed with horror. From childhood, when I bunked with my siblings and primas, we told each other spooky stories in the middle of the night to rock ourselves to sleep. Every evening we would take turns telling stories, and the stories seemed to get scarier and scarier. When it was my night to tell a story to the group, I knew I had to bring the best jump scares. I'd find myself spinning stories until my sisters' and primas' bodies would tense up in fear. I knew then that horror stories were something I could weave. There's something about having fear knotted up in your belly; it's like riding a roller coaster and waiting for the thrill of the drop.
Horror has always been a part of my life, so it felt natural for me to work on a book like "The Black Girl Survives in This One.
Horror has always been a part of my life, so it felt natural for me to work on a book like "The Black Girl Survives in This One.
- 4/22/2024
- by Saraciea Fennell
- Popsugar.com
Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney released two hit songs together in the 1980s but only made a music video for one of them. The video included a cameo by a future celebrity. One of Michael’s brothers discussed the creation of the iconic video.
Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney made a music video together for ‘Say Say Say’
Jermaine Jackson is one of Michael’s brothers. Jermaine’s voice can be heard on some of The Jackson 5’s hits. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine revealed that Michael had long wanted to work with Paul. The “Bad” hitmaker got his wish with the songs “The Girl Is Mine,” which appeared on Michael’s album Thriller, and “Say Say Say,” which Paul included on the record Pipes of Peace.
“Paul came to California to shoot the ‘Say, Say, Say’ video in which the...
Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney made a music video together for ‘Say Say Say’
Jermaine Jackson is one of Michael’s brothers. Jermaine’s voice can be heard on some of The Jackson 5’s hits. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine revealed that Michael had long wanted to work with Paul. The “Bad” hitmaker got his wish with the songs “The Girl Is Mine,” which appeared on Michael’s album Thriller, and “Say Say Say,” which Paul included on the record Pipes of Peace.
“Paul came to California to shoot the ‘Say, Say, Say’ video in which the...
- 4/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson helped define the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. For that reason, he will forever be known as one of the greatest geniuses in the history of pop and R&b music. However, the King of Pop watched another singer from the same time period in awe. He was lucky enough to watch this singer record one of the most acclaimed albums of all time.
A 1970s star told Michael Jackson to paint pictures using sound
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed his feelings toward Stevie Wonder. “Stevie was, and remains, a big friend of the family after working with us on many unreleased Jackson 5 tracks (and we did the background dooda-waps on his hit ‘You Haven’t Done Nothing’),” he explained. “We all shared the same precision: building up a song,...
A 1970s star told Michael Jackson to paint pictures using sound
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed his feelings toward Stevie Wonder. “Stevie was, and remains, a big friend of the family after working with us on many unreleased Jackson 5 tracks (and we did the background dooda-waps on his hit ‘You Haven’t Done Nothing’),” he explained. “We all shared the same precision: building up a song,...
- 4/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
R&b singer-songwriter Chris Brown is back in the news, and it’s still nothing to write back home about. This time he is on for calling out rapper Quavo in his latest track, Weakest Link. Like the latest ongoing rapper-feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, the media and fans are becoming privy to yet another duo taking shots at each other.
Chris Brown (credit: via Capital Xtra)
Chris Brown, who is no stranger to making headlines related to assault allegations, called out Quavo, whose clip of an elevator fight with his ex-girlfriend, rapper Saweetie, is going viral. Back in 2021, the ex-couple’s altercation was caught on a CCTV inside an elevator. Since Brown’s release, fans are looking back on the incident, with everyone having their own thoughts on it.
Chris Brown and Quavo’s Ongoing Feud
The feud between Chris Brown and Quavo is not that new. It...
Chris Brown (credit: via Capital Xtra)
Chris Brown, who is no stranger to making headlines related to assault allegations, called out Quavo, whose clip of an elevator fight with his ex-girlfriend, rapper Saweetie, is going viral. Back in 2021, the ex-couple’s altercation was caught on a CCTV inside an elevator. Since Brown’s release, fans are looking back on the incident, with everyone having their own thoughts on it.
Chris Brown and Quavo’s Ongoing Feud
The feud between Chris Brown and Quavo is not that new. It...
- 4/20/2024
- by Swagata Das
- FandomWire
Michael Jackson‘s “Smooth Criminal” doesn’t seem too provocative. However, one artistic choice in the song’s music video caused Jackson to leave his religion. He later looked to another celebrity for spiritual guidance.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ upset some Jehovah’s Witnesses
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine said the Jacksons were Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Jehovah’s Witnesses are a Christian denomination that began in the United States in the 19th century. They call their houses of worship “Kingdom Halls” rather than “churches.”
In 1982, Michael unintentionally upset members of his faith. Some Jehovah’s Witnesses felt that the iconic music video for “Thriller” was Satanic and asked that he not release it. That’s why the video begins with a disclaimer disavowing the occult. Jermaine dismissed the idea that there was anything evil about “Thriller,...
Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ upset some Jehovah’s Witnesses
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine said the Jacksons were Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Jehovah’s Witnesses are a Christian denomination that began in the United States in the 19th century. They call their houses of worship “Kingdom Halls” rather than “churches.”
In 1982, Michael unintentionally upset members of his faith. Some Jehovah’s Witnesses felt that the iconic music video for “Thriller” was Satanic and asked that he not release it. That’s why the video begins with a disclaimer disavowing the occult. Jermaine dismissed the idea that there was anything evil about “Thriller,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s stardom began with the release of The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back.” It took a lot to record that song and Jackson learned from the experience. The song also became the first of four No. 1 singles by The Jackson 5.
What the producer of The Jackson 5’s ‘I Want You Back’ said to Michael Jackson
Berry Gordy was the founder of Motown. He also served as one of the producers of The Jackson 5’s first (and perhaps most popular) single: “I Want You Back. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, The Jackson 5’s Jermaine Jackson discussed what Gordy did during the recording of “I Want You Back.”
“If he felt the drums needed something extra, he added it; if the bass was too busy or not busy enough, he changed it,” Jermaine wrote. “If the keyboards needed less impact, he...
What the producer of The Jackson 5’s ‘I Want You Back’ said to Michael Jackson
Berry Gordy was the founder of Motown. He also served as one of the producers of The Jackson 5’s first (and perhaps most popular) single: “I Want You Back. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, The Jackson 5’s Jermaine Jackson discussed what Gordy did during the recording of “I Want You Back.”
“If he felt the drums needed something extra, he added it; if the bass was too busy or not busy enough, he changed it,” Jermaine wrote. “If the keyboards needed less impact, he...
- 4/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Billie Jean” is a song about a man who may or may not have fathered a child with a woman he doesn’t like. One of Jackson’s brothers explained the song’s connection to Motown founder Berry Gordy. Gordy is a musical legend, but his label’s music faced some criticism from one of The Beatles.
‘Billie Jean’ was 1 of several Michael Jackson songs inspired by Motown’s Berry Gordy
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed the Motown formula. “If Americans’ brains went to Harvard, America’s talent went to Motown — and artists graduated with a lifetime’s knowledge,” he said. “‘You’re entering the finest finishing school in the business,’ Mr. Gordy told us.
“Our education was fast-track: every song should be a three-minute story with a beginning,...
‘Billie Jean’ was 1 of several Michael Jackson songs inspired by Motown’s Berry Gordy
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed the Motown formula. “If Americans’ brains went to Harvard, America’s talent went to Motown — and artists graduated with a lifetime’s knowledge,” he said. “‘You’re entering the finest finishing school in the business,’ Mr. Gordy told us.
“Our education was fast-track: every song should be a three-minute story with a beginning,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
On Wednesday night, Broadway’s Marquis Theatre celebrated the official opening of the highly anticipated revival of The Wiz.
After a successful pre-Broadway tour that began last year, this new production breathes new life into the beloved musical. Under the direction of Schele Williams, known for her work on The Notebook and with choreography by JaQuel Knight, this revival promises an exciting and contemporary take on an enduring classic.
Taking on the iconic role of Dorothy is newcomer Nichelle Lewis, who brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the stage. Joining her is a star-studded cast that includes Wayne Brady as The Wiz, Deborah Cox as Glinda, Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow.
The ensemble comprises talented performers, including Allyson Kaye Daniel as Addaperle and Anthony Murphyas Lord High Underling.
After a successful pre-Broadway tour that began last year, this new production breathes new life into the beloved musical. Under the direction of Schele Williams, known for her work on The Notebook and with choreography by JaQuel Knight, this revival promises an exciting and contemporary take on an enduring classic.
Taking on the iconic role of Dorothy is newcomer Nichelle Lewis, who brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the stage. Joining her is a star-studded cast that includes Wayne Brady as The Wiz, Deborah Cox as Glinda, Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow.
The ensemble comprises talented performers, including Allyson Kaye Daniel as Addaperle and Anthony Murphyas Lord High Underling.
- 4/18/2024
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
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