Jenn D

Jenn D Interview

The UK’s new pop vixen Jenn D is set to release her debut single ‘Lose It’ (Jester & Bayku – JLS, Pixie Lott, Roll Deep) on the18th November. 

Having been championed by the likes of PopJustice, tipped on Radio 1 as the ‘One To Watch’ by Peter Robinson & Huw Stephens, get ready to hear a lot more from this ambitious and incredibly talented young lady.

Originally from Liverpool,Jenn D is a successful singer, songwriter and musicianbringing her own unique and edgy take on pop into the music industry. Having been snapped up by AATW Records last summer, the rest they say is history. 

We cought up with Jen D to find out more.


Your debut single, Lose It is set to be released on the 18th November, what kind of things have you been doing to prepare yourself for this? 

I've been starting work on my live show. Got my first one on 28th of Nov in London so it's all systems go getting ready for that. Always thinking about the next thing. 

What’s been your most memorable performance so far and why? 

Saturday just gone with a duo signed to Ram records called Loadstar. I've done some tracks for their up and coming album and we played in Bristol on Saturday to 2,000 was a crazy gig.

Lose It would probably be defined as being electro-pop, is this your preferred genre or could you see yourself moving in different directions as your career progresses? 

Yeah definitely. My album is shaping up to be pretty eclectic. All my favourite albums are like that. 

You were previously the lead singer of a group, Soft Toy Emergency – does it make it harder in terms of creativity and productivity being a solo act now? 

Not really though the process is different. I'm very driven as a person so I don't find it hard to get motivated on my own but of course I miss the guys in the band. There's times when it's hard to make creative decisions on your own. 

If you could collaborate with one artist, dead or alive – who would it be and what would you do? 

Maybe Blondie...I think me and Debbie could kill it on stage together.

If you could get together any 3 celebrities to go out clubbing with, who would they be and why? 

Damien Lewis so I could quiz him about the up and coming Homeland plots (I'm obsessed with that show), Katy Perry because she seems lovely and has a good sense of humour, Kylie because she's the ultimate pop princess.

What are your favourite anthems to go out raving to? 

Really depends on the type of night I'm going to to be honest. I think 'Blind Faith' by Chase & Status is one of the best anthems of recent times.

If you could eat anything in the world right now, what would it be? 

Crispy Chilli Beef from the Chinese Take-Away near mine. So amazing. I don't even have to tell them what I want any more...they just know ;)

You write most of your own material – what kind of situation do you have to find yourself in to be truly inspired?

Nothing gets you quite in the mood for writing a song like heartbreak. Probably not a situation I want to find myself in that often if I can help it...but at least something positive creatively can come from it. 

In an ideal world, where do you see yourself in 10 years time? 

Still making music I hope.

Who would you most like to design a stage outfit for you? 

I feel lucky because I have a young British designer called Nabil Nayal who is designing my stage outfits for me as I type. I did some music for his show at London Fashion Week last year and we've been dying to collaborate since then. Gaga has worn his clothes before. He's very talented.

What are you wearing on your feet right now and what’s the most cherished pair of shoes/trainers you own?

I'm wearing some Nike wedge dunks as I'm just about to go to rehearsals. My most cherished pair are a pair of Vivienne Westwood shoes that I was given as a birthday present. They're my pride and joy.

If you could have any actress play you in a movie who would it be and why? Michelle Williams because she's amazing and everything she touches turns to gold.

Finally, what are we to expect from Jenn D in 2013? What do you hope to achieve? 

I just hope that people listen to my music and learn to appreciate it – whatever 2013 brings, as long as I’m making music, I’ll be happy!

The Beatles start live project

The Beatles played over 250 concerts in 116 cities and 18 countries. Now they want to track down the sound, vision and stories of those shows.

Apple is embarking on the development of 'The Beatles Live Project'.

To goal is to find the footage, images, interviews and stories that are spread around private collections and media archives all over the world.

OVOW Productions Inc has assembled a global team to see what they can discover through to December 2012 when they will they will begin work on the ultimate Beatles Live movie documentary.

Fans with content they would like to submit to be used can upload the content to TheBeatlesLiveProject.com.

The Beatles Live Project has been authorized by Apple Corps, the Beatles record label.

Psy joins Madonna in New York for Gangham Style

Current pop sensation Psy was Madonna's special guest during her concert at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night when the unlikely duo performed his 'Gangham Style' and her 'Music' together in front of nearly 20,000 fans.

Starting with a mash-up of her song, 'Give It 2 Me' and Psy's mega-hit, 'Gangham Style', Psy suddenly appeared from beneath the stage just in time for the now-infamous chorus, and proceeded to dance around the stage ' Gangham style, of course ' with Madonna and her dancers.

Looking less like a 30-year veteran hit-maker and more, at times, like a back-up dancer, Madonna danced around Psy who, conversely, seemed perfectly at home in one of the world's most famous concert venues, despite only entering (or rather exploding onto) the charts outside of South Korea earlier this year.

Regardless, the crowd seemed to enjoy the surprise and it kept the Gangham Style juggernaut cantering along, which, now being on the verge of 1 billion YouTube views, is showing little sign of slowing down any time soon.

Check out the highlights in this video, or enjoy the surprise introduction and 'Gangham Style' in full in the video below.

Justin Bieber paparazzo court case thrown out

The case against photographer Paul Raef, who was the first person prosecuted under a new Californian law targeted at overly zealous paparazzi, has been thrown out of court this week, with the judge labelling the new law 'problematic' and 'overly inclusive'.

In 2010, a new law was introduced in California, criminalising dangerous driving when taking photos commercially.

However, the law had not been tested until July this year, when Paul Raef, 30, was charged with two counts of violating the new law, following an incident on July 6th involving teen pop idol, Justin Bieber.

All up, the City Attorney's office filed four misdemeanour charges against Raef at the time, including reckless driving with the intent to capture pictures for commercial gain, following another vehicle too closely, reckless driving and failure to obey a peace officer.

However, the first two counts were dismissed by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Thomas Robinson on Wednesday who, according to Reuters, called the state's anti-paparazzi law 'problematic' and 'overly inclusive.'

He made reference to law's vague definition of commercial photography, which could inadvertently increase penalties for reckless driving, such as in the case of a photographer who was simply speeding to reach an arranged photo shoot with Bieber, meaning that they could potentially be charged with additional misdemeanours simply because of their profession.

For his part, Justin Bieber received a speeding ticket on the day in question when he was pulled over by police for driving 80 miles per hour in a 65 mph zone.

Telling officers at the time that he was being hounded by paparazzi, he called the police about 30 minutes later when Raef continued to follow him.

Paul Raef will be tried on the two remaining charges of reckless driving and failure to obey a peace officer at a later date and still faces the potential of six months in county jail.

Aerosmith tour in crisis?

Aerosmith's upcoming world tour is reportedly in crisis amidst reports that band members are 'not really talking'.

Sources claim that tension between frontman Steven Tyler and fellow rockers Joey Perry, Tom Hamilton, Brad Whitford and Joey Kramer has been increased due to poor record and ticket sales.

The group's first release in ten years, Music From Another Dimension!, didn't meet expectations when it failed to climb to the top of the American charts.

Meanwhile, none of the dates on their current Global Warming Tour have sold out.

'The band isn't really talking. Aerosmith's record came in fifth after Taylor Swift [Red], Now That's What I Call Music: Volume 44, Rod Stewart's Merry Christmas, Baby and Ne-Yo's new release [R.E.D.]. Pretty bad for their first release in a decade,' a source told New York Post. 'No dates on the current tour are sold out. Meanwhile, [Steven's business manager Dina] LaPolt is doing a reality-show pilot instead of focusing on Tyler's career, and his career needs help.'

Rocker Steven is said to be laying blame for the mediocre reception of the record at the band's label's door.

A second source commented that since Aerosmith fired former manager Tim Collins and A&R guy John Kalodner, the group has lost its 'magic'.

Steven's allegedly rocky relationship with his fiancée Erin Brady has also been the course of speculation.

However, a spokesperson for the band insisted there is no truth to the crisis reports.

'Aerosmith is doing great and on tour and on fire. Any claim to the contrary is absolutely false,' a representative said. 'Also, Steven... just as any couple goes through trials and tribulations in a relationship, Steven and Erin have asked for their privacy at this time. It's clear that someone is spreading false and malicious rumours.'

Buckcherry tour starts next week with new album for 2013

LA's finest rock band Buckcherry are set to release a new album 'Confessions' on February 19th 2013 via Eleven Seven Music excluding USA where it will be on Century Media. 

'Confessions' is based on the seven deadly sins, and is part of a larger vision that includes a film written by frontman Josh Todd, who based the album's lyrics on his childhood, and subsequent journey into adulthood.

Buckcherry's last album, 2010′s 'All Night Long' debuted at No. 10 on the Billboard 200 and spawned the singles 'Dead,' 'It's a Party' and 'All Night Long'. Their most successful album was 2006′s '15,' which made them an international platinum selling phenomenon and featured the major rock hit 'Crazy Bitch' as well as the cross-over smash 'Sorry.'

The band have also added a further 5 dates to their forthcoming UK tour which kicks off at Nottingham's Rock City on November 20th, and ends up at Brighton's Concorde on December 7th, taking in a headline set at Hard Rock Hell VI Festival on December 2nd along the way.

Merging punk grit, gutter attitude, honest storytelling, and razor sharp hooks, Buckcherry don't play by the rules. Their no-frills approach to making music was solidified from the beginning, when Josh Todd (vocals) and Keith Nelson (guitar) started cutting tracks in Todd's bedroom, and finally grew into a quintet with Stevie D (guitar), Jimmy Ashhurst (bass) and Xavier Muriel (drums). Live, these five musicians can bring any crowd to its feet. Barely taking a break, the band relentlessly tours every corner of the world playing with everyone from AC/DC to Slipknot, touring sold-out arenas alongside Nickelback and KISS, and headlining festivals ranging from the punk rock Ink-N-Iron to Sturgis. Radio staples. 

Buckcherry are one of the most sought-after bands on radio and live circuits, and Confessions is primed to take the band to even greater heights.

Last seen in the UK at Download 2011, when they also played their own headline show to a packed Electric Ballroom, their UK tour dates are as follows:

November 2012:
Tue Nov 20th Rock City, Nottingham,
Wed Nov 21st HMV Institute Birmingham 
Fri Nov 23rd Roadmender, Northampton
Sat Nov 24th Waterfront, Norwich, 
Sun Nov 25th Manchester Academy 2, UK
Tue Nov 27th The Cockpit, Leeds, UK
Wed Nov 28th Corporation, Sheffield, UK
Thur Nov 29th O2 Academy Newcastle, UK
December 2012
Sat Dec 1st Garage, Glasgow, UK
Sun Dec 2nd Hard Rock Hell VI 
Mon Dec 3rd Trinity, Bristol, UK
Wed Dec 5th Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth, UK
Thur Dec 6th Electric Ballroom, London, UK
Fri Dec 7th Concorde 2, Brighton, UK

Justin Bieber and Gomez 'reconcile'

Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez have sparked rumours of a reconciliation.

The popstars are thought to have split over the weekend, following claims Justin flirted with models when he performed at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show last week.

Despite reports Selena, 20, was adamant the relationship had run its course, the pair are now thought to have spent some time together.

According to TMZ, Justin picked Selena up from an airport on Wednesday and then travelled with her to her home.

"We're told Bieber spent the night at SG's place," reports the site.

"The next morning, the two hitched a ride to the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills."

The pair made sure they went into the establishment at different times and weren't photographed together, although separate images of them entering the hotel have been released.

Selena is seen in a simple pair of slim-fitting black trousers, coupled with a white shirt and brown wedge ankle boots. Justin opted for a dark T-shirt and red cap.

News of the former couple's seeming reunion comes after claims Selena had blocked Justin from contacting her. Earlier this week it was reported that he had been texting and phoning her in an effort to win her back. It was then claimed Selena had enough of the constant contact, so ensured no calls or messages from her ex-boyfriend would be delivered to her phone.

Justin, 18, was accused of flirting with Hungarian Victoria's Secret model Barbara Palvin at the luxury lingerie company's annual catwalk display.

Marcus Mumford: Heartbreak inspires me

Marcus Mumford has 'fewer ideas' for heartbreak songs since marrying Carey Mulligan.

The singer-songwriter revealed his happy relationship with the actress has influenced his creative process when it comes to channelling his own experiences through music.

The frontman of British folk band Mumford & Sons explained he struggled to think of lovelorn lyrics in a recent musical brainstorm with his band members.

"We had a little writing session the other day. The other guys were coming up with more ideas than I was," he told British newspaper The Guardian.

Marcus also recalled his early experiences on the road, touring with fellow folk artist and former girlfriend Laura Marling.

After meeting when he worked as a session drummer for the songstress, he relived their shared musical beginnings and how they enjoyed the simple life of travelling from gig to gig together.

"We toured a lot, just me and her. Have you seen [movie] Force 10 from Navarone? I was like the bomb expert, Miller, had my little box of tricks ' [drum]sticks, a mandolin. We used an accordion case as a kick-drum, made snares out of paper stuck on tables,' he recalled. 'Laura would never say anything on stage so I'd do all the chatting. That got my stage banter sharpened."

Paul McCartney making a stand for turkey's

What is Paul McCartney eating for Christmas dinner this year? Not turkey, that's for sure ' and to bring the message home, the former Beatle appears in a brand-new PETA UK campaign, in which he shows off an "Eat No Turkey" T-shirt below the words "Celebrate Life This Holiday Season. Go Vegetarian".

When McCartney sat down to record his narration for PETA's video exposГ© of the meat industry ' called "Glass Walls" for the music legend's famous statement "If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be vegetarian" ' he shared what his family eats for the holidays: "We eat a veggie roast at home, so if we have traditional moments like Christmas . the roast is perfect. It's completely vegetarian, but I can slice it, so I can do all my traditional dad things. We can do our family stuff with it, and it's delicious, so I much prefer that to my memory of turkey".

Every year, almost 10 million turkeys are slaughtered in the UK for Christmas dinners alone. In nature, turkeys are protective and loving parents as well as spirited explorers who can climb trees and run as fast as 25 miles per hour. But most turkeys slated to be killed for food are crammed into filthy warehouses, where disease, smothering and heart attacks are common. Turkeys are drugged and bred to grow such unnaturally large upper bodies that their legs often become crippled under the weight.

Paul McCartney is part of a long list of celebrities ' including John Bishop, Pamela Anderson, Owain Yeoman, Joss Stone, Alicia Silverstone and many more ' who have teamed up with PETA UK to promote healthy, humane and Earth-friendly vegetarian meals.

The "Eat No Turkey" T-shirt is available to purchase. For more information, including animal-free holiday recipes, please visit PETA.org.uk.

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club confirm new album and world tour

The new BRMC album will be released in March. The actual street date is being worked out, but the band will be posting news about the date and official album pre-sales in the coming month.

A band statement read:

"Hey guys, I would like to be the first to tell everyone who has been patiently waiting, that the new Black Rebel Motorcycle Club album is officially confirmed to be released in March 2013. This album has taken every last ounce of us to bring to life, and if it wasn't for you guys keeping us going, we don't know if it would've ever seen the light of day. It's going to be a joyful day indeed when we get to see you all again and share these songs with you. Peter, Leah and myself are dying to get out of this studio right now and back into the fight. It's taken us a long while getting back on our feet, but the time has come." 
We'll see you all soon - With love and respect, Robert Levon Been & B.R.M.C.

BRMC are also announced the first leg of our world tour for 2013 starting in March in the UK & Europe. All the below dates are now on sale here.

The next leg of the tour will be announced sometime before the end of the year.

13/3/13 TBA
14/3/13 Cranz-Montana, CH / Caprices Festival
16/3/13 Paris, FR / Trianon
18/3/13 Milan, IT / Magazzini Generali
19/3/13 Torino, IT / Hiroshima
20/3/13 Zurich, CH / Komplex
22/3/13 Amsterdam, NL / Paradiso
24/3/13/ Manchester, UK / Ritz
25/3/13 Glasgow, UK / ABC
26/3/13 Birmingham, UK / Institute
27/3/13 London, UK / Brixton Academy
29/3/13 Nottingham, UK / Rock City
30/3/13 Leeds, UK / Academy
01/4/13 Brussels, BE / Ancienne Belgique
02/4/13 Luxembourg, LX / Den Atelier
04/4/13 Vienna, AT / Gasometerr
05/4/13 Munich, DE / Muffthalle
07/4/13 Berlin, DE / Astra Kulturhaus
08/4/13 Hamburg, DE / Grosse Freiheit
09/4/13 Köln, DE / Live Music Hall

BRMC will be playing 3 special club shows in December:

December 19th - San Francisco, CA / Slim's
December 20th - Santa Cruz, CA / The Catalyst (The Atrium)
December 21st - Los Angeles, CA / The Troubadour

Dinosaur Jr announce 2013 tour dates

Dinosaur Jr will be touring the UK and rest of Europe in January 2013 for the first time since May 2010. 

They'll be playing in support of their latest album I Bet On Sky, which is a true and worthy addition to the Dinosaur Jr. discography, brilliantly imprinted with the trio's magical equation. 

For a combo that began as anomalous fusion of hardcore punk and pop influences, Dinosaur Jr have proven themselves to be unlikely masters of the long game. 

Confirmed dates are below, with more to be added soon. 

2013
Jan 30 - Glasgow, - Arches
Jan 31 - Leeds, - Leeds University Stylus 
Feb 1 - Manchester, - Ritz 
Feb 2 - Brighton, - Concorde 
Feb 3 - Bristol ' Fiddlers Club
----------
Feb 6 - Paris, France - Trabendo 
Feb 7 - Luxembourg, Lux - Rockhal 
Feb 8 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - Paradiso 
Feb 9 - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix Hall 
Feb 11 - Courtrai - Belgium - De Kruen 
Feb 12 - Frankfurt, Germany - Batschkapp 
Feb 13 - Lausanne, Switzerland - Les Docks 
Feb 14 - Zurich, Switzerland - Le Plaza 
Feb 15 - Milan, Italy - Milano Bloom 
Feb 16 - Zagreb, Croatia - Culture Factory Club 
Feb 18 - Prague, Czech Republic - Lucerna Music Bar 
Feb 19 - Berlin, Germany ' Postbahnhof

Fan tickets on sale from Nov 23rd here.

View band's latest video here: 'Watch The Corners' 

Asda goes X Factor with 'Chicken Jahmene'

IF YOU like a Chinese takeaway in front of The X Factor on a Saturday night, then look no further than the new 'Chicken Jahmene'.

To show its support for colleague and current star of The X Factor, Jahmene Douglas, Asda is launching a limited edition, Chicken Chow Mein - re-naming the popular Chinese dish after the singing sensation.

For one weekend only the Chosen by you Chicken Chow Mein will be known as 'Chicken Jahmene' and 23p from each pack sold will go towards national charity, Women's Aid, in a bid to raise money for the cause.

The charity, at which Jahmene's mum works and is close to his heart, supports a network of over 500 domestic and sexual violence services across the UK.

The supermarket urges its shoppers to show their support for the Swindonstore superstar by going Chicken Jahmene crazy this weekend.

Jackie Anderson, from Asda's ready meal team said: "We're so proud of Jahmene and all the incredible performances he does week in, week out on the X Factor so we really want to get behind him and offer our support. ChickenChow Mein is a weekend favourite and we hope that by re-naming it after him, we'll be able to raise lots of money for Women's Aid.' 

The Chicken Jahmene will be available in Asda stores nationwide between Friday 16th and Sunday 18th November at a price of £2.25 ' a third of the price of a high-street takeaway.

Justin Timberlake doesn't share 'drunken pictures'

Justin Timberlake won''t post 'drunken pictures' on his social media profiles.

The entertainer purchased shares in MySpace last year and has been involved in giving the social media website a makeover after the concept began to get overlooked thanks to rivals Facebook and Twitter.

Explaining the main difference he sees between the three sites, the singer-turned-actor explained he wants to use MySpace to connect to fellow artists - and not to publish pictures of himself going wild.

"I don''t want MySpace to be who I was last night through a bunch of drunken pictures, in a drunken stupor, and I don''t want it to be who I am right now on what I''m typing on the Internet," he told MTV. "I want it to constantly be about who I''m going to be, what I have to offer the next day and the next day."

Justin also insisted that he hasn't retired from music.

After enjoying a hugely successful solo career, the 31-year-old has focused mainly on movie and fashion projects in recent years.

But the Bad Teacher star promised when he releases new material, it will be on a grand scale.

"You''re the ones who stopped talking about me as a musician. You guys act like I said I''ve retired," he laughed. "I can tell you this: when I''m ready to say something, you always know that I''ll say it in the biggest way possible. [My music] really comes from the heart, and for me, I just don''t take it for granted. If anything, I''m honouring it in the best way that I know how, but when it''s time, I''ll be ready. I''m not less inspired, I didn''t give up, but until I have something to say, I was taught to keep my mouth shut. That''s how my mother raised me."

Katy Perry 'advised by Aniston'

Katy Perry has apparently been calling Jennifer Aniston for advice on how to 'tame' John Mayer.

Jennifer began dating the famed bad boy in 2008, but the pair went their separate ways a year later.

Katy and John got together in July, following the Teenage Dream singer's split from comedian Russell Brand.

'Jennifer gave Katy her number and told her to call any time, but she didn't expect her to take the offer so seriously,' a source revealed to British magazine Closer.

'Now Katy's in contact and asking her for tactics on how to tame him, but John seems to know about it and isn't happy that his ex has become so involved in his relationship. Jennifer's trying to wean Katy off, telling her that she doesn't want John to think she's meddling, but Katy won't be put off.'

John is a renowned ladies' man, whose famous exes include the likes of Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jessica Simpson and pop princess Taylor Swift.

Katy has a complicated relationship history herself, having fallen for bad boy Russell in the past.

Now it seems the same thing has happened with John, as the pair's relationship gets more serious.

'Katy is besotted with John,' an insider said.

'When they first started dating, she swore she wouldn't fall for his womanising ways, but now she can't get enough of him and has been telling friends that he's not the player that people believe he is. But her friends aren't convinced and are worried that she's just falling for another bad boy.'

Britney Spears 'calls off winter wedding'

Britney Spears and fiancé Jason Trawick have 'called off' their winter wedding, it has been reported.

A source claims the couple has decided to push back their planned December nuptials because of incessant arguments.

The insider added the romantic spark has faded and the singer and her former manager have drifted apart.

"Britney and Jason had planned to get married at the end of December, but they have been fighting non-stop so the wedding has now been called off. They are telling their friends it's being postponed, but they will probably never make it down the aisle,' a source told Radar Online. 'Britney doesn't think Jason is any fun and resents him because he acts more like a second father than a romantic partner, or equal. They have been sleeping in separate bedrooms for a very long time. Jason feels like he is Britney's babysitter and it's pretty much just a business arrangement at this point. He does love Britney and the boys, but he just can't see himself spending the rest of his life with her."

Britney's parents, Jamie and Lynne, are said to be "absolutely devastated' that the wedding has been called off.

The X Factor judge's father is apparently especially disappointed because he feels Jason has been leading his daughter on.

"Lynne is very close to Jason and views him as one of her children. Meanwhile, Jamie feels that Jason shouldn't have proposed to Britney if his heart wasn't in it, and feels a little betrayed. It doesn't help matters that both Jamie and Jason are co-conservators of Britney. The whole situation is just sad for everyone," the source added.

Bobby Brown pleads not guilty on DUI

Bobby Brown pled not guilty on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol.

The troubled 43-year-old singer was arrested for a DUI in Studio City, California last month.

TMZ reports that Bobby contested the charges in court this week.

The judge presiding over this case suspended Bobby's driving licence and the star was ordered to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Bobby has been convicted of DUI twice before, in March 2012 and in 1996.

Bobby was on probation for his March arrest, but the magistrate revoked this in light of his October arrest.

He was released on his own recognisance and faces two years in jail should he be convicted for this third DUI.

Bobby was undergoing treatment for alcohol addiction as part of a legal arrangement following his arrest for DUI this spring and most recently exited rehab in August.

A pre-trial for Bobby's new DUI charge will commence next month.

Dog Is Dead Announce UK headline tour

Dog Is Dead are excited to announce their biggest UK headline tour to date. 

The band will be heading out on a run of dates kicking off at Oxford's Academy 2 on February 22, following with shows in Manchester, Gloucester, Norwich, Portsmouth, Preston, Nottingham, Hull, Sheffield, London's KOKO, Cardiff and Stoke Sugarmill on March 8th. 

Dog Is Dead tour dates:
February 2013
22 February Oxford Academy 2
23 February Gloucester Guildhall
24 February Cardiff The Globe
25 February Norwich Arts Centre
27 February Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
28 February Preston 53 Degrees

March 2013
1 March Nottingham Rock City
2 March Hull Fruit
3 March Sheffield Queens Social
6 March London KOKO
7 March Manchester Sound Control
8 March Stoke Sugarmill

Pre-sale tickets are available here from Monday 19th November at 9am: http://dogisdead.co.uk/tickets

Their new single Teenage Daughter is out 17th December, you can watch the official video here:

Hayseed Dixie's John Wheeler to release debut solo album

'Un-American Gothic' is John Wheeler's first solo record, written entirely on the road during 2011. 

Best known for the past decade as the creator and frontman of the successful Rockgrass act, Hayseed Dixie, the band had spent nearly 9 months on the road and every mile of that tour John traveled, himself, on motorbike. 

Prior to the tour the band had mutually decided that after over 1,000 live shows together they all really wanted ' and in some ways really needed ' to take a couple of years off from Hayseed and do some different things. For John this was an important opportunity to, in his words, not to have to 'just write songs about drinking, cheating, killing and hell for my character, Barley Scotch, to sing anymore ' and then having to think, well, what do I want to write about then?'

'Un-American Gothic' itself is meant to be an ironic title, in that John is now an ex-pat Amercian living in Cambridge, married to an English wife, bringing up two children ' ultimately, the name has become a commentary on how being physically displaced makes a person question their own identity on the deepest levels. 

The album itself is eclectic and original, like Hayseed Dixie's critically refreshing seventh album No Covers (for which Wheeler was chief songwriter), but with extra personality, intelligence, insight and, of course, all the charm and humour that flung Hayseed into such credible popularity. From first single, 'Deeper In Debt', inspired by a conversation with Fairport Convention's Dave Pegg about the banking crisis, to the ode to home life 'Little Houses in a Row', to John's bruised cover of 'Eton Rifles', performed, in disbelief, as a result of hearing that it was David Cameron's favourite song, there is a lot to be admired here. 

A brave step into his own territory and a chance to write on his own terms, this is a record that will unite Hayseed fans of old, but might just open John's music up a whole new audience too ' 'Un-American Gothic' is the sound of John Wheeler taking a big, creative sigh of relief.

Official video for latest single 'Deeper in Debt'



Wheeler's cover of 'Eton Rifles'

Styles and Swift 'quietly seeing each other'

One Direction's Harry Styles and country crooner Taylor Swift are reportedly back together.

The pair enjoyed a brief romance in April, but they split to pursue other affairs.

Harry dated model Emma Ostilly and Taylor had a summer romance with Conor Kennedy.

Apparently Harry and Taylor are now back on, even though the songstress was left devastated by their previous breakup.

"Taylor and Harry have been quietly seeing each other again," a source told Radar Online.

"Taylor really liked Harry and even though they weren't exclusive, he hinted at making it official with her just before he took off to Australia. [one morning ] Taylor had all these texts from Harry begging for a chance to explain and telling her not to believe everything she reads.

"She immediately googled Harry and found all the stories and pictures of him kissing Emma. She was heartbroken."

Taylor has been romantically linked to John Mayer, Joe Jonas, Jake Gyllenhaal and Taylor Lautner in the past.

It's rumoured that she simply comes on too strong.

"When Taylor dates someone she jumps in full force, but Harry is being a little more cautious this time around,' the insider said.

"Taylor is a hopeless romantic, so she's really hoping it works out with Harry.

"Harry's being really sweet with her right now and careful not to hurt her. But at the same time, he's a young, popular heartthrob who isn't quite ready to be tied down."

Jessica Simpson's father pleads on DUI case

Jessica Simpson's father Joe pled no contest on DUI charges this week.

Joe landed himself in trouble on Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles on Saturday August 4. The 54-year-old was pulled over by LAPD officers at around 10pm that night and authorities suspected that he was intoxicated.

TMZ reports that Joe's attorney Shawn Holley visited the court surreptitiously on Tuesday to enter to plea for his client, days before the scheduled date.

Joe apparently made a deal with the court.

He will not be put in jail and will instead be on probation for three years.

Joe must also pay an undisclosed fine and attend alcohol education classes.

Joe recently became a grandfather again after his daughter Jessica gave birth to daughter Maxwell earlier this year.

He is currently separating from his wife of 34 years Tina and is embroiled in a major sex scandal.

Many young homosexual men are claiming that they've engaged in romantic affairs with Jessica and her sister Ashlee Simpson's father.

Sparks and Derülo 'make every moment count'

Jordin Sparks and Jason Derülo treasure the time they spend together.

The musicians have been dating for over a year.

Jason was named one of People magazine's Sexiest Men of the Year in 2011.

At an event celebrating the publication's latest Sexiest Man Alive issue in New York City Wednesday, Jordin revealed the pair's holiday plans.

"We make every single moment count together," she told the serial.

"He''s even coming to my house for Thanksgiving. It''ll be the first time that''s happened."

Jason can't wait to celebrate the holiday with his love.

"I''m excited," he gushed.

"She spent Thanksgiving at my house last year so we''re all pretty acquainted by now."

Jordin is proud of Jason.

She shows last year's Sexiest Man Alive edition to as many people as possible.

"I totally saved the issue and showed him off to everyone saying, ''Look where my boyfriend is,'' " she said.

Tommy Lee introduces signature clothing line

Motley Crue's Tommy Lee now has his own signature clothing line.

Tommy helped develop the range of t-shirts, shorts, jackets and denim with the Unit design team.

'I'm stoked to be working with a brand like Unit that encompasses the same ideology as my music,' says Tommy. 'The Unit team did a great job on the range and the fit and quality are right on.'

'Tommy's swagger, unfiltered attitude and approach to his music fits perfectly with the art and action sports Unit is involved with,' says Unit Founder and Creative Director Paul Everest.

The artwork for the range is based on Tommy's concept 'The Goddess of Noise'.

The range will be available from December 1 in shops and at unitriders.com.

Unit is the Papua New Guinea started, Australian based clothing company now head quartered in San Clemente, California founded by brothers Paul and Ian Everest.

Avenged Sevenfold 'Carry On' Call of Duty: Black Ops II surprise video

Avenged Sevenfold's new original song "Carry On," is featured as a surprise video following the credits in the in the highly-anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops II, available on all major platforms now.

It is a very unique performance and unlike any other ever. Scroll down to find out what we mean.

The performance also features characters Raul Menendez & Sergeant Frank Woods performing alongside AX7.

If you just want to see the virtual AX7 playing new song 'Carry On' skip to 1:36 in the video. 

Avenged Sevenfold ' 'Carry On' is available now on iTunes.

Example to meet fans and sign albums at hmv

Fans of the hugely successful artist, Example, get the chance to meet him in person when he visits hmv's flagship Oxford Street store in London's West End to sign copies of his new album, 'The Evolution Of Man', on Sunday 18th November 2012.

Example will be at the store from 4.00 pm to meet fans and sign copies of the new album which fans will be able to buy on the day, exclusively at the hmv Oxford Street store, before its official release date of Monday 19th November 2012 through Ministry Of Sound.

'The Evolution Of Man', will be Example's fourth studio album to date and includes tracks produced by Dirty South, Zane Lowe and Calvin Harris. The album features his signature candid autobiographical lyrics and has already spawned the smash hit 'Say Nothing' as the debut single from the album. 

Please note that due to anticipated demand the event will be wristbanded. 500 wristbands will be issued for access to the event and will be available from the store on the day of the event from 12pm (midday) on a first-come first-served basis.

Cannon wants Carey, Minaj duet

Nick Cannon wants his wife Mariah Carey to record a duet with American Idol rival Nicki Minaj.

The two divas were at the centre of controversy last month after they were caught on camera screaming profanities at one another while judging auditions for the US singing competition.

Nicki recently said a duet with Mariah would make for great television after the fight.

And Nick admits he agrees.

"They could definitely do that. Why not? People love that stuff," he told E! News.

The actor said it would be a perfect marketing opportunity as Mariah has an album coming out soon. But he will leave it to the ladies to decide whether or not to bury the hatchet and share the stage on the FOX network show.

"I''m pretty sure they could figure that out," he said, adding, 'That''s probably part of the whole thing, she''s going to get out there and promote her new music."

While the drama continues to unfold Nick is looking forward to the Idol season premiere in January.

The show he hopes will help fans see a more personable side of his Grammy-winning wife.

"I think it''s all about the opportunity for people to see Mariah for who she really is," he said. "You''ll get to see how intelligent she is. how witty, and her great sense of humor. Also, her nurturing spirit and wanting to help all these young people accomplish their dreams."

Comedy stars stand up for Shelter

A stellar line up of comedians including Tim Minchin and Alistair McGowan are coming together for Stand up for Shelter ' a unique night of comedy on Wednesday 27 February 2013 at the Hammersmith Apollo in London. 

Completing the line-up will be Stewart Francis, Sara Pascoe and The Cuban Brothers, with all acts performing for one night only to raise money for the housing and homelessness charity. The evening will be hosted by Christian O'Connell, breakfast presenter at Absolute Radio, the official radio station for Stand Up for Shelter. 

Tickets for this one-off night of comedy are just £30 and go on sale today (Friday 16th November) at shelter.org.uk/standup. 

Over 75,000 children are homeless in Britain today, living in cramped and run-down accommodation, including hostels or B&Bs. This has a devastating impact on their health, education and future chances in life. Every ticket sold for Stand Up for Shelter will support the charity's work to help homeless families find a safe and stable home. 

Christian O'Connell, Breakfast Show Presenter Absolute Radio said, 'The greatest laugh of the night might be at me - desperately trying to hold this motley crew together.'

Follow @Shelter and @absoluteradio for event information and updates and use #shelterkids. 

For a chance to win VIP tickets to Stand up for Shelter and signed merchandise from the comedians, take part in Shelter's Christmas joke competition at shelter.org.uk/standup #xmasjoke.

Status Quo add more dates to reunion tour

Live Nation are delighted to announce that due to phenomenal demand additional dates have been added to those already announced for the Status Quo reunion tour. 

Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Alan Lancaster and John Coghlan are reforming for a one-off series of UK dates in March 2013. Tickets for the first set of shows sold in under an hour! Tickets for all new shows are on sale now.

The reformed band will be performing a set based around the classic 'Live!' album that was released in 1977 ' containing seminal Quo tracks like 'Junior's Wailing', 'Forty-Five Hundred Times', 'Rain' and many more. 

The album has been routinely voted as one of the best live Rock albums of all time ' the band won the 'Classic Album' award for 'Live!' at this week's Classic Rock 'Roll of Honour' Awards.

MARCH 2013
Wednesday 6 Manchester O2Apollo* 08444 777 677
Thursday 7 Wolverhampton Civic* 0870 320 7000
Saturday 9 Glasgow 02 Academy* 0844 477 2000
Sunday 10 Glasgow 02 Academy 0844 477 2000
Tuesday 12 Manchester 02 Apollo 08444 777 677
Wednesday 13 Wolverhampton Civic, 0870 320 7000
Friday 15 London, Hammersmith Apollo 08448 44 47 48
Saturday 16 London, Hammersmith Apollo 08448 44 47 48
Sunday 17 Wembley Arena* 0844 815 0815

* New date
Tickets are priced at £39.50 - £50 for London and £38.50 regionally and are available here.

This series of dates truly is a one off ' Status Quo are now, and remain, Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Andy Bown, John 'Rhino' Edwards and Matt Letley ' so fans need to be sure that they do not miss out.