The 2010 Soul Train Awards Nominees
Related ArtistsSunday, 31 July 2011
Will Beyonce's 4 Be #1 Again?
Experts think B needs a hit single soon, but her latest album seems poised to top the charts again next week.
By Jocelyn Vena
Beyonce's <i>4</i>
Photo: Columbia
As a contender for 2011 Summer Diva, Beyoncé is certainly making great strides to rule the airwaves this summer. After B's fourth solo LP, 4, debuted at #1 last week, it's looking likely that she'll top the charts on next week's Billboard albums chart as well.
A rep for SoundScan hadn't responded to MTV News' request for an exact number of units expected to be sold by next week, but Billboard is reporting that a lack of high-powered new releases should secure a repeat top spot for Beyoncé's latest.
The buzz around B and the album will probably only continue to grow, since she's slated to debut a video for her next single, "Best Thing I Never Had," very soon. But her album's success comes as a bit of a surprise, seeing as "Run the World (Girls)" nor any other single has really resonated with fans or radio so far.
"Beyoncé, I love her, but none of her singles thus far off 4 seem poised to be doing huge numbers," Perez Hilton told MTV News.
But we should not count B out in the singles department just yet, Us Weekly senior music editor Ian Drew said.
"You've got to remember that Beyoncé, being typical Beyoncé, her albums generally are anchored by really big hits; this album doesn't have those hits yet," Drew told MTV News. "It's not to say that it won't. There are some very strong songs on the album, but they have not been released yet. There are those songs on it, but they have not come out yet and they haven't struck yet. Beyoncé is coming out at a time when radio is very crowded."
Despite those obstacles, B is definitely marching to the beat of her own drummer. "She's going in a different direction," Drew said. "She's taking control of her own career."
Have you checked out Beyoncé's new album? Share your reviews in the comments!
Related Videos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1666940/beyonce-4-album-sales.jhtml
Rebecca Black Set To Drop New Single, EP
Follow-up to smash 'Friday, titled 'My Moment,' will be released July 18.
By Jocelyn Vena
Rebecca Black
Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
Thanks to her ubiquitous hit "Friday," Rebecca Black quickly went from YouTube sensation to starring in a Katy Perry video for that singer's equally ubiquitous hit "Last Friday Night." Now Black is ready to take her career to the next level.
She'll release a new song, "My Moment," on July 18, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The song was written by Brandon "Blue" Hamilton (Justin Bieber) and Quinton Tolbert and the production credits include Charlton Pettus.
The video is reportedly less kitschy than her "Friday" video (but perhaps just as literal). It will include footage of her attending red-carpet events and receiving an award at her junior high school, telling "the story of her sudden rise to fame," according to a statement. "It's a fairy tale story, but it happened in real life."
Black is also working on finishing up her five-track EP, which will be released in August. "We're thinking about it; we have so many different options right now. We're trying to decide which route we should take," Black told MTV News earlier this year about her career plans and following up her viral smash.
"I really like Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Selena Gomez; all just the fun upbeat stuff, teenager songs," she said of her musical inspirations. "My dream duet would be Justin Bieber. Even just doing something with Taylor Swift, or any of my favorite artists would be so cool."
Are you looking forward to Rebecca Black's next single? Tell us in the comments!
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1667031/rebecca-black-to-drop-new-single.jhtml
Mavado yet to make contact with Anchovy Police
Popular dancehall artiste Mavado is yet to make contact with the Anchovy Police in St. James.
Mavado, whose given name is David Brooks, is being sought by the police in relation to an alleged attack on a man and his son in St. James.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday night, July 22.
Efforts to contact attorney at law Tom Tavares -Finson, who has represented Mr. Brooks in the past Monday morning, July 25, were unsuccessful as his telephone rang unanswered.
Source: http://www.rjrnewsonline.com/entertainment/mavado-yet-make-contact-anchovy-police
'Breaking Dawn' Star 'Like A Zombie' On Last Day Of Shooting
'She's gone; you're not putting these clothes back on,' Julia Jones recalls to MTV News of saying goodbye to her character, Leah.
By Terri Schwartz, with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Julia Jones
Photo: MTV News
After filming "Eclipse" and the two-part "Breaking Dawn," Julia Jones can call herself a "Twilight Saga" veteran. But that doesn't mean she found going to Comic-Con for the first time any less intimidating.
MTV News caught up with Jones in San Diego after the "Breaking Dawn" cast's packed Hall H panel. Unfortunately, her castmates hadn't given her much of a heads-up about the insanity of Comic-Con.
"We've been in front of a lot of people before but this is a new experience for me, Comic-Con," Jones said.
While her fellow castmembers had helped her prepare for the experience of doing fan events for "Eclipse," Jones said this time they figured she would get the hang of things. "Now I think they just don't pay attention: 'She's been here long enough, she'll figure it out.' "
In "Breaking Dawn - Part 1," Jones and the rest of the wolf pack are featured much more than they have been in previous installments, which gave the actress some room to expand on her character, Leah Clearwater. While Leah is characterized by her anger at Bella (Kristen Stewart) and the Cullens in "Eclipse," in "Breaking Dawn," fans will see that her rage has been tempered because a good portion of the story is told from werewolf Jacob Black's (Taylor Lautner) perspective.
"I was thrilled when I read [the script] because she really has the opportunity to kind of grow and she's not so angry anymore," Jones explained. "I felt relieved for her when I read that, oh, my gosh, she can actually express these things she hasn't expressed and go somewhere with it."
As for the last day of shooting the "Twilight" series, Jones admitted that she may have shed a few tears in her trailer when director Bill Condon shouted "Cut!" for the last time. The long shoot made it seem as if filming would never end, she explained, and that made saying goodbye that much harder.
"For me, personally, the last day, right when we wrapped, I didn't believe it. I hadn't even thought that that was possible. I just stood there like a zombie. People started hugging, like, 'You're wrapped, you're wrapped!' Like, 'Go, what are you doing? We need to move on,' " Jones said with a laugh. "I actually went back to my trailer and I was fine, I was a little in a daze. And I realized as I was taking my costume off that this is it. She's gone; you're not putting these clothes back on. And that was kind of a big thing for me."
Check out everything we've got on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
Related Videos Related PhotosSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1668098/breaking-dawn-julia-jones.jhtml
Christina Aguilera Voices Support For Britney Spears
'I think it's important at this stage in the game to show my support,' the 'Voice' judge says of the Femme Fatale singer.
By James Dinh
Christina Aguilera
Photo: Florian G. Seefried/ Getty Images
Since the beginning of their careers in the late '90s, Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears have been portrayed in the media as pop-star rivals. However, years down the line, Aguilera says she's got her fellow 'Mickey Mouse Club,' alum's back.
According to OK! magazine, Xtina had some kind words for Britney when she was asked during the promotional blitz for her new gig as a judge/mentor on NBC's upcoming TV talent competition, "The Voice," if she'd heard Spears' new album, Femme Fatale.
"I've been really hard at work on this show. I haven't had quite the chance to go through the whole thing," Aguilera admitted, but added, "I am a huge supporter of [Britney] in light of the fact that both of our careers started off together and are still going and going strong.
"I just think at this point in the game it's extremely important to be supportive of fellow artists and especially females who get pitted against each other and torn apart."
Aguilera, who also endured comparisons with Lady Gaga during the release of last year's Bionic album, further commented on the special place that the "Hold It Against Me" singer holds in her heart because of their shared career beginnings.
"As an old friend of mine from the Mickey Mouse Club, I think it's important at this stage in the game to show my support," she continued.
With new projects on both of their plates, Aguilera took to Twitter just last week to send out well-wishes to her fellow pop vixen on her new release, writing, "Hey @BritneySpears Congrats on Femme Fatale release! Can't wait to see what you bring in the next video. xo." Spears responded shortly thereafter, tweeting, "Thanks @TheRealXtina. Can't wait to watch you on your new show. Hope we get to hear that voice on The Voice."
Would you like to see Britney and Christina collaborate? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Related Videos Related Photos- Candid Moments From 'Britney Spears: I Am The Femme Fatale'
- Britney Spears Brings Down The House In Las Vegas
Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1661345/christina-aguilera-supports-britney-spears.jhtml
Blake Shelton, Incubus Take Over Billboard Chart
Beyonce's 4 knocked down to #5 in third week out.
By Gil Kaufman
Blake Shelton
Photo: Stephen Lovekin/ Getty Images
Blake Shelton was already a beloved country star before he became a reality-TV double-threat. But thanks in part to his breakout role on "The Voice," Miranda Lambert's better half is reaping plenty of benefits, including a #1 debut on the Billboard 200 charts next week for his new album, Red River Blue.
According to figures provided by SoundScan, Shelton's sixth studio album, his first #1 debut ever and highest-charting album to date, sold 116,000 copies last week. Just behind was the first album in five years from floaty rockers Incubus with If Not Now, When, which debuts at #2 on sales of 80,000. They lead a parade of new faces in the top 10 that also includes country singer Chris Young, whose Neon hit #4 in its first week (73,000), pop smoothie Colbie Caillat's All of You (#6, 66,000), head-bangers Theory of a Deadman's Truth Is (#8, 38,000) and the debut from the rebooted Sublime with new singer Rome, Yours Truly (#9, 35,000).
The rest of the top 10: Adele's 21 (#3, 77,000), Beyoncé's 4 (#5, 72,000), Jason Aldean's My Kinda Party (#7, 42,000) and Selena Gomez and the Scene's When the Sun Goes Down (#10, 33,000).
A couple of former top 10 dwellers fall to the second rung, including Eminem's Hell: The Sequel project under the Bad Meets Evil banner (#11, 30,000), Lady Gaga's Born This Way (down five to #13, 25,000) and Jill Scott's Light of the Sun (#14, 21,000).
The soundtrack to "Harry Potter: Deathly Hallows, Part 2" comes in at #25, while indie darlings Washed Out crash in at #26 with the excellent Within & Without (#26, 15,000). And it was a short trip to the top 10 for R&B crooner Lloyd, who plummets 39 spots to #49 in the second week for King of Hearts (9,000).
Over on the iTunes chart Caillat sits atop the album tally, followed by Shelton, Incubus, Adele, Sublime, Chris Young, Theory of a Deadman, Beyoncé, Bad Meets Evil and the unstoppable Mumford & Sons' Sigh No More.
LMFAO continue to rule the iTunes singles chart with their summer hit "Party Rock Anthem," which beats out Demi Lovato's "Skyscraper," Katy Perry's "Last Friday (T.G.I.F.)," Nicki Minaj's "Super Bass" and Hot Chelle Rae's "Tonight Tonight." Rounding out the top 10 at #6 are Lil Wayne's "How to Love," Pitbull's "Give Me Everything," Adele's "Rolling in the Deep," OneRepublic's "Good Life" and Aldean's "Dirt Road Anthem."
Things should be fairly static next week, with the only new titles including a new Kidz Bop Kids title and albums from 311, 3 Doors Down and DJ Khaled.
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1667568/blake-shelton-incubus-billboard.jhtml
Black Eyed Peas, Usher, Slash Light Up Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show
Foursome is joined by special guests and tons of lights for smash-hit medley.
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Black Eyed Peas perform during the Super Bowl XLV halftime show
Photo: Getty Images
The Black Eyed Peas promised a party at the Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday (February 6), and the pop supernovas definitely delivered, with a performance teeming with lights, dancers and surprise appearances from celebrity pals.
Following a Chatter.com commercial that showed animated versions of the Peas showing off their social-media skills, the group kicked things off with their 2009 smash "I Gotta Feeling," descending from the ceiling on illuminated platforms onto a stage surrounded by a cluster of dancers clad in white bodysuits. The foursome led the team of fist-pumping troops in "Tron"-like getups, with Taboo sporting an outfit covered in flashing lights, will.i.am rocking a shiny hairpiece, Apl.de.ap wearing huge bright studs and Fergie vamping it up in bling-laden shoulder pads.
When the speaker-busting bass of "Boom Boom Pow" dropped, the dancers dispersed across the field to create arrow-shaped formations as the glow-in-the-dark lights on their suits illuminated the stadium. Then rumored surprise guest Slash of Guns N' Roses rose from below the stage for a "Sweet Child O' Mine" duet with Fergie. The GNR great rocked a finger-searing solo in a studded version of his signature black top hat as more angular platforms and dancers moved across the gridiron. The platforms were bearing scores of marching-band musicians who blasted their horns and pounded away on their drums as the Peas went into "Pump It" and blue lights splashed across the production.
Quick streams of fog heralded the arrival of the Peas' second surprise guest, Usher, who swooped in on a long chain to bust out his will.i.am-assisted joint "OMG." Rocking a sparkly collar on an otherwise all-white ensemble, the R&B hitmaker cranked out several counts of energetic choreography, enlivening moves from his "OMG" video and at one point jumping over Will and landing in a split.
A spray of pyro ushered in the collective's breakout 2003 hit "Where Is the Love?" as the oddly shaped platforms spelled out the word "Love" in bright-red letters. The team of dancers, which appeared to have multiplied to over 100, formed hearts across the field as will updated the lyrics of the smash with lines like, "Obama, let's get these educated."
Then the group jumped ahead to their most recent single, 2010's "The Time (Dirty Bit)," as several back up hoofers rocking cubed helmets joined the Peas onstage and dancers lined up along the gridiron to simultaneously bust out the Running Man, a move which drew cheers from the crowd.
The platinum-selling Peas wrapped up the performance with a reprise of "I Gotta Feeling," as the quartet triumphantly signed off amid of blitz of fog, firepower and flashing lights.
Ripping the halftime show was clearly a touching moment for will, who tweeted beforehand, "Me and apl started the peas when we were 16 yesterday we were dreamin now were livin it. Wow. I'm not crying out of sadness or nervousness its joy and pride and memories and the journey."
And once the crew left the stage, the frontman was not only proud, but pumped. "That was so freakin sick," he wrote. "Wow...!!!"
What did you think of the Black Eyed Peas' Super Bowl performance? Let us know in the comments!
Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1657356/black-eyed-peas-usher-slash-super-bowl.jhtml
Eminem, Royce Da 5'9" Debut Tops Billboard Chart
Bad Meets Evil's Hell: The Sequel barely outsells Jackie Evancho.
By Gil Kaufman
Royce Da 5'9" and Eminem
Photo: MTV News
Eminem just scored another #1 album. Almost a year to the day after his comeback smash Recovery crashed the charts with more than 741,000 in sales, the Detroit rapper's collaborative EP with pal Royce Da 5'9" as Bad Meets Evil, Hell: The Sequel, will hit the top of the charts as well, though it didn't post anywhere near the gaudy numbers of Slim Shady's solo effort.
The album moved a modest 171,000 copies in its first week, according to figures provided by Nielsen SoundScan, just besting the latest album from 11-year-old "American's Got Talent" soprano opera singer Jackie Evancho, Dream With Me, which sold 161,000.
The second release from one-man emo band Owl City, All Things Bright and Beautiful, debuts at #6 on next week's chart, with sales of 48,000, while classic crooner Barry Manilow makes it to #7 with 15 Minutes (36,000), his first album of all-original material in more than a decade. R&B singer Ledisi is just behind at #8 with Pieces of Me (36,000).
The rest of the top 10: Adele, 21 (#3, 115,000); Lady Gaga, Born This Way (#4, 68,000); Jason Aldean, My Kinda Party (#5, 51,000); Brad Paisley, This is Country Music (#9, 35,000) and the cast recording of the Tony-winning Broadway show "The Book of Mormon"(#10, 34,000).
Among the other chart debuts are makeup-wearing rockers Black Veil Brides with Set the World On Fire (#17, 23,000) and the debut EP from YouTube sensation Selena Gomez tourmate Christina Grimmie, Find Me (#35, 13,000).
After finally opening on Broadway, following months of maligned previews and technical glitches, the soundtrack to the musical, featuring music performed by the cast as well as score writers Bono and the Edge of U2, hit the charts at #86 on soft sales just shy of 7,000.
On the iTunes charts, Em and Royce ruled the album tally, followed by Adele, Owl City, Journey's Greatest Hits album — which led a parade of classics as part of a low-dough Father's Day digital special also including the Nothing But the Best Frank Sinatra comp (#5) and Bob Marley's Legend (#6) — as well as Grimmie (#7), Gaga, Mumford & Sons' Sigh No More and Evancho.
On the iTunes singles chart, Katy Perry hit the top again with "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)," besting LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem," Pitbull's "Give Me Everything," Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" and Gaga's "The Edge of Glory." Rounding out the singles tally were Nicki Minaj with "Super Bass" (#6), Bad Meets Evil's "Lighters," Lil Wayne's "How to Love," Bruno Mars' "The Lazy Song" and Aldean's "Dirt Road Anthem."
There could be a few new names in the top 10 next week, thanks to debuts from R&B singer Jill Scott, mellow folkie Bon Iver, LMFAO, Pitbull and comedian "Weird Al" Yankovic.
Related Videos- 'RapFix Live' With Eminem And Royce Da 5'9"
- Katy Perry's 'Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)': Frame By Frame
Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1666234/eminem-royce-da-5-9-hell-the-sequel.jhtml
Lil Wayne - Women Lie Men Lie
- Artist: Lil Wayne
- Label: J Records, Polo Grounds
- Director: Benny Boom
- Album: Women Lie, Men Lie
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=510062&vid=494586
Lil Wayne - Sidekick
- Artist: Lil Wayne
- Label: Jive, Zomba Label Group
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=510062&vid=334675
Mixtape Daily: Rico Love, Gunplay
The platinum songwriter and producer talks about his work with Kelly Rowland and Good friend Usher.
Photo: Triple C's
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Michael Jackson - The Behind The Mask Project
- Artist: Michael Jackson
- Label: Epic
- Director: Dennis Liu
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1102&vid=666246
Lil Wayne - Give It Up To Me
- Artist: Lil Wayne
- Label: Epic Records
- Album: She Wolf [Bonus Tracks]
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=510062&vid=456812
Lil Wayne's Sorry Mixtape Is 'Outstanding,' Lil Twist Says
Young Money teen's 'Flowers' also might land on Tha Carter IV.
By Alvin Blanco
Lil Twist
Photo: MTV News
Lil Twist, currently on the "106 & Park" Closer to My Dreams Tour, discussed working with and being influenced by Lil Wayne during a stop in Los Angeles. The teenaged YMCMB rapper has been taking cues from Weezy when it comes to his own performances, while his rhymes might land on Tha Carter IV.
"I've learned a lot over the past five years from my brother Lil Wayne, seeing him on tour since I was very young," Lil Twist told MTV News. "So you're going to see a lot of energy like he gives at his shows. Not the same, but a lot of swag."
Being a member of Young Money has made Twist privy to an early listen of Weezy's upcoming mixtape, Sorry For the Wait. "It's amazing, it's great, it's outstanding," Twist said of the project, which Wayne is releasing to appease fans since his proper album, Tha Carter IV, has been delayed numerous times. "And, he's rapping. He's going in and y'all are gonna love it."
Twist revealed he's also heard all of Weezy's album, now scheduled to drop August 29. "I've heard it all," Twist said. "Yes, we're in the studio every day, every night, till the morning, till sun up in Miami, so I've heard it all."
Lil Twist himself will be rapping on one or both of Weezy's forthcoming projects. He revealed the name of the song he appears on: "It's called 'Flowers.' I can say it may make the mixtape, it may not. Because it's for C4, and it's also for Sorry For the Wait. It'll make either one, maybe both."
Lil Twist is releasing a collaborative mixtape with Justin Bieber, whose rap persona is "Shawty Mane." The two buddies are working on a video for a song called "Wherever You Are" that appears on the long-in-the-works project.
Which Lil Twist project are you most excited about? Tell us below!
Related Videos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1667017/lil-wayne-lil-twist-sorry-for-the-wait.jhtml
Rihanna Focused On Career, Not Men
'It can definitely be intimidating to guys to date someone in this industry,' singer tells Cosmopolitan U.K.
By Jocelyn Vena
Rihanna
Photo: Shareif Ziyadat/ FilmMagic
Rihanna is like an open book when it comes to her views on the opposite sex. In the new issue of Cosmopolitan U.K., the pop star says that these days she's all about the chase, mostly because she doesn't have time for much else.
"I'm open to love. But guys should have to earn it. Because the minute they get it, they want something else," Rihanna said. "Men are like hunters: they like the chase. So you have to keep 'em guessing. Actually, I'm like that too. I get bored quickly. So if someone can make me laugh, that's the best."
Currently on a summer tour, Rihanna says that most guys have a hard time wrapping their head around the fact that she's a very busy person with a very bustling career. " It can definitely be intimidating to guys to date someone in this industry," she said. "It's really hard to find a guy who doesn't care about that stuff. Right now, it's easier just having my career to focus on."
After a string of high-profile relationships with Chris Brown, Matt Kemp and maybe even Drake, the singer is currently single. Rihanna's relationship with Brown left her in a very vulnerable place after an assault in early 2009.
"It was a very aggressive and defensive time, and that allowed me to start not giving a sh--. I walked around with a very f--- you attitude," Rihanna said in the issue. "I've always been good at masking my emotions. For me, it's tougher to be vulnerable than to be tough."
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1666970/rihanna-cosmopolitan.jhtml
Eminem - I Need A Doctor
- Artist: Eminem
- Label: Aftermath, Interscope
- Director: Allen Hughes
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=502642&vid=625666
Justin Bieber's Grammy Performance Will Be 'A Crossover,' Usher Says
The 'O.M.G.' singer looks forward to sharing the stage with his protégé on Sunday night.
By James Montgomery
Usher
Photo: Amanda Edwards/ Getty Images
HOLLYWOOD — At Sunday's 53rd Grammy Awards, Usher will be pulling double duty as both a nominee and a performer. Of course, given the massive year he just completed — with the success of his smash single "O.M.G." and as a mentor to rising phenom Justin Bieber — Ush's Grammy plans seem rather fitting.
Especially since he'll be performing with Bieber (and Bieber's pal Jaden Smith), a move that's just as much about celebrating Usher's successes as it is the successes of his young protégé.
"Having been through [the Grammys] so many times, you couldn't want for anything more than for your young protégé to have the opportunity to have one, so, in support of him having his moment, I wanted to be here," Usher told MTV News on Thursday, hours before his performance at the (Belvedere) RED launch party in Hollywood. "And also to be there to perform, to kind of tell the story of how we came together. This music business has definitely been good to both of us, and this year we have a lot to be happy for."
And just how will the dynamic duo tell that story? Well, Usher wasn't about to reveal all the details, but he did say that he's hoping their performance will show another side of Bieber ... a side most tend to overlook.
"The performance will be fun," Usher explained. "We want to get up there and just do what we do. Be comfortable, and have a great time. ... This is kind of a crossover for Justin. Having performed on so many different stages, this is the way that I wanted him to be seen and an opportunity to show the industry — a lot of the industry, that didn't believe [in him] — some of his other talents. He's going to play acoustically, and also, we'll get down a little bit."
And though Ush is up for a pair of Grammy awards on Sunday — Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and Best Contemporary R&B Album for Raymond v. Raymond — he's most looking forward to sharing the stage with Bieber and giving fans a look at where the young artist will be heading next.
"I'm very proud, man. I definitely saw it from the beginning, but thanks to the team that we have around us, it was made to happen. And that story has only just begun," Usher said. "The story of Justin Bieber doesn't stop with screaming girls; we need screaming fans all around the world ... a cultural experience that's much more than just fanfare. And that's what this is. That's what the Grammys will be; that's what my next phase for Justin is. This is the way I found him: I found him with a guitar in his hand, so I want him to be seen that way."
Don't miss "Snooki & Sway: Live From the Grammys," a red-carpet live stream kicking off Sunday at 6 p.m. ET on MTV.com. And stick with us all Grammy night for coverage of the red carpet, the show, the afterparties and beyond!
Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1657728/usher-justin-bieber-grammy-performance.jhtml
Eminem, Royce Da 5'9" Debut Tops Billboard Chart
Bad Meets Evil's Hell: The Sequel barely outsells Jackie Evancho.
By Gil Kaufman
Royce Da 5'9" and Eminem
Photo: MTV News
Eminem just scored another #1 album. Almost a year to the day after his comeback smash Recovery crashed the charts with more than 741,000 in sales, the Detroit rapper's collaborative EP with pal Royce Da 5'9" as Bad Meets Evil, Hell: The Sequel, will hit the top of the charts as well, though it didn't post anywhere near the gaudy numbers of Slim Shady's solo effort.
The album moved a modest 171,000 copies in its first week, according to figures provided by Nielsen SoundScan, just besting the latest album from 11-year-old "American's Got Talent" soprano opera singer Jackie Evancho, Dream With Me, which sold 161,000.
The second release from one-man emo band Owl City, All Things Bright and Beautiful, debuts at #6 on next week's chart, with sales of 48,000, while classic crooner Barry Manilow makes it to #7 with 15 Minutes (36,000), his first album of all-original material in more than a decade. R&B singer Ledisi is just behind at #8 with Pieces of Me (36,000).
The rest of the top 10: Adele, 21 (#3, 115,000); Lady Gaga, Born This Way (#4, 68,000); Jason Aldean, My Kinda Party (#5, 51,000); Brad Paisley, This is Country Music (#9, 35,000) and the cast recording of the Tony-winning Broadway show "The Book of Mormon"(#10, 34,000).
Among the other chart debuts are makeup-wearing rockers Black Veil Brides with Set the World On Fire (#17, 23,000) and the debut EP from YouTube sensation Selena Gomez tourmate Christina Grimmie, Find Me (#35, 13,000).
After finally opening on Broadway, following months of maligned previews and technical glitches, the soundtrack to the musical, featuring music performed by the cast as well as score writers Bono and the Edge of U2, hit the charts at #86 on soft sales just shy of 7,000.
On the iTunes charts, Em and Royce ruled the album tally, followed by Adele, Owl City, Journey's Greatest Hits album — which led a parade of classics as part of a low-dough Father's Day digital special also including the Nothing But the Best Frank Sinatra comp (#5) and Bob Marley's Legend (#6) — as well as Grimmie (#7), Gaga, Mumford & Sons' Sigh No More and Evancho.
On the iTunes singles chart, Katy Perry hit the top again with "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)," besting LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem," Pitbull's "Give Me Everything," Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" and Gaga's "The Edge of Glory." Rounding out the singles tally were Nicki Minaj with "Super Bass" (#6), Bad Meets Evil's "Lighters," Lil Wayne's "How to Love," Bruno Mars' "The Lazy Song" and Aldean's "Dirt Road Anthem."
There could be a few new names in the top 10 next week, thanks to debuts from R&B singer Jill Scott, mellow folkie Bon Iver, LMFAO, Pitbull and comedian "Weird Al" Yankovic.
Related Videos- 'RapFix Live' With Eminem And Royce Da 5'9"
- Katy Perry's 'Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)': Frame By Frame
Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1666234/eminem-royce-da-5-9-hell-the-sequel.jhtml
Saturday, 30 July 2011
Eight-day Independence Celebrations in Atlanta
Jamaicans in Atlanta, Georgia, will mark Jamaica's 49th year of Independence with a wide range of activities from July 30 to August 6.
Vin Martin, Jamaica's Honorary Consul to Atlanta and patron of the eight-day celebration, said the activities run the gamut "from the religious, to the literary, to the creative and of course, the parties".
"Our culture and heritage are strong and we are delighted that we can come together to celebrate this anniversary and allow others to get a glimpse of the history and culture of our beloved Jamaica," he stated.
Source: http://www.rjrnewsonline.com/entertainment/eight-day-independence-celebrations-atlanta
Beyonc� - If I Were A Boy
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Label: Columbia/Music World Music
- Director: Jake Nava
- Album: I Am...Sasha Fierce
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1236911&vid=288236
T&T yet to clear Mavado to perform in the country
There is uncertainty surrounding Mavado's appearance at a concert in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago later this week.
The entertainer is booked to perform in the twin island republic on Saturday, July 30, but is yet to receive clearance from immigration officials in that country.
According to Collin Partap, the Spokesman for Trinidad's National Security Ministry, Minister John Sandy will receive a report from the Police Special Branch on the matter this week.
Source: http://www.rjrnewsonline.com/entertainment/tt-yet-clear-mavado-perform-country
Michael Jackson - Hollywood Tonight
- Artist: Michael Jackson
- Label: Epic
- Director: Wayne Isham
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1102&vid=634970
'Battleship' Trailer: The Five Key Scenes
We see a whole lot of Brooklyn Decker's skin and an alien ship, but blink and you'll miss Rihanna.
By Eric Ditzian
Photo: Universal Pictures
"Battleship" may be based on a board game, but the action flick's first trailer shows an influence far more cinematic than anything having to do with little plastic pegs and the faux-sinking of tiny seafaring vessels. The new footage, which Yahoo! premiered on Wednesday (July 27), begins like an ode to a "Blue Crush"-ish beach make-out movie, veers into "Armageddon"-esque father-vs.-daughter's-boyfriend antagonism, then explodes in an orgy of a couple dozen alien-invasion movie references.
Totally original, this one ain't. But it's also pretty damn entertaining, and we really are looking forward to checking out the madness when it hits theaters on May 18, 2012. Until then, here are our picks for the five key "Battleship" trailer moments.
Brooklyn, Obviously
One of these days, Brooklyn Decker is going to get a movie role that doesn't require her to parade around a beach in a bikini. Or not. One thing is certain after checking out this footage and taking in her performance, such as it was, in Adam Sandler's "Just Go With It": Decker, the Sports Illustrated model, has been typecast. In "Battleship," she finds herself in the middle of one of cinema's oldest relationship pickles: in love with a bad boy whom her dad can't freaking stand. Clearly the relationship between the boy (a naval officer played by Taylor Kitsch) and the daddy (Liam Neeson's no-nonsense admiral) will factor into the battle with these aliens. Let's just hope it doesn't become the emotional focus.
Don't Tread on Me
Everything in the Navy's military exercises in the big blue ocean seems to be going well until they encounter a hulking contraption submerged in the water. One unlucky dude (Kitsch) is sent out to touch base, literally, with the alien ship, unleashing a whole lot of extraterrestrial terror. The aliens, we'll soon learn, are here to utilize our oceans as a power source. This one shot raises a bunch of questions. Why are the ship's defenses activated by simple touch, rather than the proximity of the Navy? What kind of tech do the aliens possess that they can send a sort of shockwave that hurtles a man so far, so quickly? And what's inside the ship that we don't yet see?
What a Big Bubble You Have!
Speaking of alien weaponry, the ship is capable of unleashing some kind of bubble force field that encompasses an enemy and, so it seems, destroys everything within it. We'll just ignore, for now, how the bubble reminds us of that containment unit in "The Simpsons Movie." Instead, let's concentrate on the alien tech. We're hoping for originality and cool visuals to join forces and deliver us a satisfying early summer movie experience. The bubble, perhaps, is the harbinger of fun, absurd, eye-popping stuff to come.
She Needs an Umbrella
"Battleship" marks Rihanna's big-screen debut. In the trailer, blink and you miss her. But she's there, standing up in a raft and looking wet as the alien craft flies overhead. She certainly looks freaked out. But we can't yet get a sense of her acting chops from this footage; and hey, we might not be able to even after this popcorn flick's credits roll. All we can say for now is she had a blast on the production. "Working with [director] Peter Berg is unbelievable," she told us last fall. "I love doing movies now. It's something I want to do more of. I just want to pick films that are wise for me and roles that I can pull off, nothing that is too big for me."
Taking Flight
We have to say we're surprised how much of the alien ship we get to see in this first trailer. We see how it's a craft that can both plunge into the water and also take flight. We see how it can transform and shift and hover; quite a lot of control, those aliens have on this sucker. We see its cylinder-shaped weaponry. We see the front of the ship almost seems to have a face. So the question is: How much did filmmakers hold back? We haven't, for instance, seen the aliens themselves. With so many alien flicks hitting theaters each year, it's getting harder and harder to surprise audiences with those creatures. Can "Battleship" do it? Stay tuned.
Check out everything we've got on "Battleship."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1668014/battleship-trailer-five-key-scenes.jhtml
Amy Winehouse Remembered By Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, More
'RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace,' Perry writes. 'I am genuinely heartbroken about this,' Rihanna tweets.
By Jason Kaufman, with reporting by Kara Klenk
Amy Winehouse
Photo: Carlos Alvarez/ Getty Images
As news spread that 27-year-old Amy Winehouse was dead, stars immediately tweeted their shocked reactions and remorse over the lost talent.
Katy Perry, who touches down in Boise, Idaho, this weekend as part of her California Dreams Tour, tweeted her condolences, writing, "RIP Amy Winehouse. May she finally find peace."
Nicki Minaj, who is also on the road as part of Britney Spears' Femme Fatale jaunt, took to Twitter and expressed disbelief at the news of Winehouse's passing. "Please tell me Amy Winehouse didn't die," wrote the Young Money MC, who's set to hit the stage in Florida on Saturday (July 23). "Is this some sick joke?"
"I am genuinely heartbroken about this," wrote Rihanna, who continued to express her shock over multiple tweets. "Dear God have mercy!!! I am SICK about this right now!" In another, she wrote "U made a MAJAH impression on this industry and throughout the world, in such a short space of time...too short!"
Usher reflected on Winehouse, who he had known: "I'm so sad to hear the horrible news of Amy Winehouse's death. I'm so happy I knew you Amy...Rest Well. Gone Too Soon...we'll miss you!!""
Frequent tweeter Kim Kardashian used her 140 characters to send prayers: "I just heard the news that Amy Winehouse passed away. What a true talent. I pray she's in a better place & at peace."
Meanwhile, Ryan Seacrest showed Winehouse's impact on the music industry, singling out both Lady Gaga and Adele as those who had been influenced. "Sad to lose Amy Winehouse - incred talent. Both @LadyGaga & @OfficialAdele say Amy paved way for them."
Dr. Drew focused on the singer's well-documented struggles with addiction. "SO sad, another lost to addiction. A reminder this is often a fatal condition. Recovery is possible, but sadly not for Amy Winehouse."
Winehouse's American record label, Universal Republic, said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened at the sudden loss of such a gifted musician, artist and performer. Our prayers go out to Amy's family, friends and fans at this difficult time."
Many More Stars Are Reacting. Check Back To See Who Else Has Weighed In:
Leann Rimes: "RIP Amy Winehouse. So sad to see such a talent gone and her life end in tragedy. This makes me terribly sad."
Khloe Kardashian: "Wow! I just heard about Amy Winehouse passing away! Wow! So sad :( what an amazing talent"
Ashton Kutcher: "Rip amy winehouse"
Big Boi: "Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and now Amy Winehouse. All died aged 27. RIP to you all."
Kelly Osbourne: "i cant even breath right my now im crying so hard i just lost 1 of my best friends. i love you forever Amy & will never forget the real you!"
Rick Ross: "Wanted to collab w/ Amy Winehouse...r.i.p...smoking 1 in your memoryyy!!"
Janelle Monae: "heart is heavy. My heart goes out 2 Amy Winehouse's family, loved ones. Praying for their strength during this time."
Ricky Martin: "I just found out. I feel pain. I feel anger. Rest beautiful girl rest. You are free!"
Cee Lo: "Is it true about amy?"
Victoria Justice: "I'm so sad about the #amywinehouse news I heard this morning. She was 1 of my favorite artists. What a sad story, she was such a talent..."
Randy Jackson: "Wow what a tragic loss today in the music world, Amy Winehouse such a talent. She will be missed"
Kreayshawn: "I said she was a TIMELESS artist and a real artist because of her struggle. I'm so upset I love her! RIP Amy Winehouse"
What Was Your Favorite Winehouse Song? Pay Tribute To Her Talents On Facebook
Share your memories of Amy Winehouse in the comments below.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1667804/amy-winehouse-remembered-katy-perry-nicki-minaj.jhtml
'Star Trek 2' Close To Locking In Director J.J. Abrams
Since finishing 'Super 8,' Abrams working on 'Trek 2' script.
By Terri Schwartz
JJ Abrams
Photo: Getty Images
Trekkies and J.J. Abrams fans alike can rejoice, for the "Super 8" director is at long last close to committing to helm "Star Trek 2." Now that Abrams can no longer use his stock answer — "The truth is that my focus has been so much on finishing 'Super 8' " — to avoid giving any "Star Trek 2" updates, Deadline has confirmed that he is working with the flick's writers and is close to committing to direct the sequel to his hit "Star Trek" reboot.
This must have been the "announcement" Abrams promised MTV News would be coming "soon" back at the "Super 8" premiere in June. But it also means that the film will miss its intended June 29, 2012, release date.
That's good news for "G.I. Joe: Cobra Rises," though, which Deadline is calling "G.I. Joe: Retaliation." The entertainment news site has learned that Paramount is planning on giving the June release date to the "G.I. Joe" sequel and slating "Star Trek 2" for either winter 2012 or summer 2013.
Either way, Paramount has agreed to be ready to jump into production on the flick whenever Abrams is. Abrams is now sitting down with writers Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman to polish up the "Star Trek 2" script, which Deadline is guessing will begin production in January.
MTV News caught up with Damon Lindelof at San Diego Comic-Con, where he chatted about the current status of the script. "There was a lot of work going on over the course of the last year between Bob [Orci] and Alex [Kurtzman] and I," Lindelof said. "We generated, like, a 90-page half-script half-treatment based on some meetings that we've had with J.J. [Abrams]. Now that J.J. is finally finished with 'Super 8,' we've kind of, not thrown out that material, but we're reworking a lot of it."
He added that the final product of the script will hopefully improve upon the sequel the same way "Batman Begins" improved upon "The Dark Knight." " 'Trek 2' has to be better than 'Trek 1,' " Lindelof said. "It has to."
Check out everything we've got on "Star Trek 2."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1668054/j-j-abrams-star-trek-2.jhtml
Rihanna - Who's That Chick?
- Artist: Rihanna
- Label: Astralwerks
- Director: Jonas Akerlund
- Album: One More Love
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=1940303&vid=619501
'Glee' Season Finale Exclusive: Listen To 'Yeah!' Here
An a cappella girl group covers Usher's hit for Nationals in next week's episode.
By Aly Semigran
Usher
Photo: Christopher Polk/ Getty Images
During this week's episode of "Glee", the gang from New Directions took a big risk when they decided they would compete in Nationals by singing their own original songs. Well, the stakes just got a little higher.
MTV News has an exclusive first listen to one of the rival groups who will go up against the McKinley High glee club in New York City during next Tuesday's (May 24) big season two finale. In the upcoming episode, an all-female a cappella group sings Usher's 2004 club and radio smash "Yeah!," which may have the Nationals judges saying just that.
Singers replace synthesizers for the four-note melody that repeats throughout the song, and lead vocalists RaVaughn Brown and Missi Hale match the high energy that Usher, Lil Jon and Ludacris brought to the track.
Granted, a few things have been tweaked in the version for the tween-friendly show, including the length (the original is over four minutes long, while the "Glee" version comes in at three and a half minutes) and the tune's instructions to "Take that and rewind it back ... got the rhythm make ya booty go."
Also, instead of Ludacris' verse, "We want a lady in the street/ And a freak in the bed," one girl sings, "You know you want a kiss on the lips, old red." The line, "Ludacris fill cups like double D's" has also been cut from the song.
But, it's not all PG. At one point in the girls' rendition of the track, they page homage to Lil Jon's crunk hit "Get Low," singing, "From the windows to the walls" and even Mystikal's booty-happy single "Shake Ya Ass," when they urge, "Show me whatcha' workin' with."
At the 2005 Grammy Awards, the power trio of Usher, Lil Jon and Ludacris won the Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Yeah!" But, will the song bring the same sort of fortune to this girl group at Nationals? Or will the glory all belong to New Directions this time? Gleeks will still have to wait a few more days to find out.
The "Glee" season finale airs Tuesday at 9 p.m. on Fox, while "Glee": The Music, Volume 6, including the three new original songs "Light Up the World," "Pretending" and "As Long as You're There," will be available on Monday.
What do you think of this a cappella group's version of "Yeah!"? Let us know in the comments section below!
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1664208/glee-season-finale-usher-yeah.jhtml
Rihanna Replaces Cee Lo Green With J. Cole As 'Official' Tour Opener
'@CeeLoGreen will no longer be a part of #LOUDtour due 2 commitment with 'The Voice',' singer tweeted.
By Jocelyn Vena
J. Cole
Photo: Jason Merritt/ Getty Images
Rihanna has found a new man to be her official tour opener. After Cee Lo Green had to drop out of the Rihanna's Loud tour due to other commitments, Ri announced that she's upgrading J. Cole to the role of "official" tour opener.
Rihanna announced via Twitter that rapper J. Cole, who was already on the road with the singer, will fill Green's shoes as her main warm-up act on the tour, which began this month. "#GOODNEWS @JColeNC is our new official opener!" she wrote on Tuesday night. "@CeeLoGreen will no longer be a part of #LOUDtour due 2 commitment with 'The Voice' #Cantmissit."
Jay-Z protégé Cole, who is releasing his debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story, on September 27, just wrapped up the video for first single "Work Out" with director Jake Davis on Tuesday.
Green had to leave when his schedule became too crammed with other commitments, including his judging gig on the hit NBC talent competition "The Voice," which is also presenting a tour this summer.
"He always puts 100 percent into his work and with the requirements and time commitment to 'The Voice,' on top of heading back into the recording studio and an upcoming book, he feels that he wouldn't give his fans the show that they deserve," Green's spokesperson said, according to The New York Times.
Rihanna's Loud tour travels the U.S. through July 24 before heading to Europe in August. It's set to wrap up in late December.
There was a similar switch-up for Rihanna's Last Girl on Earth Tour in 2010, when Nicki Minaj pulled out at the last minute and was quickly replaced with Travie McCoy. Ke$ha also opened on that tour.
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1666580/rihanna-j-cole-tour.jhtml
'The Voice' Stars Say Show Is 'Serious' But 'Fun'
'I think the commonality between all four of our coaches is their passion for music,' show host Carson Daly says.
By Kara Warner
"The Voice" coaches Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton
Photo: NBC
For die-hard fans of reality TV singing contests who just can't get enough, NBC has a treat for you in the form of "The Voice." Hosted by Carson Daly and featuring superstar mentors Christina Aguilera, Cee-Lo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton, the show hopes to discover yet another future pop star.
MTV caught up with the new reality TV cast recently to get some scoop on the music veterans working on the show.
"I'm really excited about 'The Voice,' " Daly said. "I think the commonality between all four of our coaches is their passion for music, and they're all excellent voices, they're all very business savvy."
Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine guaranteed that while they are taking the job seriously, there's plenty of lightheartedness too.
"This show is just fun, and throughout the whole thing, we're interacting with each other," he said. "And yeah, it's serious, it's a competition, [and] we want these guys to succeed."
"We've been a little apprehensive about allowing ourselves to be considered or called judges," Green admitted. "At the end of the day, we're doing a bit more mentoring and a little more coaching more than we're judging."
Green has also said that part of the draw of "The Voice" is its unconventional concept.
"At first, I thought it was a very cool and original concept," Green said, speaking of the format in which coaches sit with their backs to contestants to focus on their vocals instead of their looks as they decide whether to mentor them through later rounds. "We're all coming from such different worlds that there's a coexistence," he added. "[But] there's a bit of friendly competition because we're all playing to win."
After getting advice from the professional singers during battle phases — where they can also call in choreographers, stylists and producers to help their charges — the wannabe stars will go on to live performance shows where the TV audience will vote on who advances and wins the $100,000 prize and recording contract.
"The Voice" premieres Tuesday (April 26) at 9 p.m. ET.
Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1662699/the-voice-premiere.jhtml
Christina Aguilera - Not Myself Tonight
- Artist: Christina Aguilera
- Label: RCA Records
- Director: Hype Williams
Source: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?artist=509026&vid=511538
Grace JA Jerk Festival sizzles in New York
Producers of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival - New York made their mark last weekend with the successful staging of the inaugural festival at the Roy Wilkins Park in Queens.
The spectacular affair drew close to 7,000 Caribbean nationals, who began lining up at the entrance from as early as 11:30 a.m. for the noon opening to get their taste of the variety of jerk food and entertainment served up on Sunday, July 24.
Source: http://www.rjrnewsonline.com/entertainment/grace-ja-jerk-festival-sizzles-new-york
Kanye West, Robyn, More: The Other Videos Of The Year
Before the VMAs air live August 28 at 9 p.m. ET on MTV, we shine a spotlight on some lesser-known clips.
By James Montgomery
Kanye West
Photo: Flanigan/ FilmMagic
Last week, the nominations for the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards were revealed in a live special that featured plenty of surprise guests (like multiple-nominees Katy Perry, Bruno Mars and Tyler, the Creator) and just as many actual surprises.
Perhaps nowhere was the latter more apparent than in the Video of the Year category, which saw Perry's "Firework" and Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" grab noms (as predicted), but also featured a trio of rather unexpected inclusions: Mars' "Grenade," the Beastie Boys' "Make Some Noise" and Tyler's "Yonkers."
In fact, though they're all worthy selections, this year's Video of the Year category might best be remembered for the clips that didn't make the cut. And we're not just talking about high-profile vids like Eminem and Rihanna's "Love the Way You Lie," Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" or Britney Spears' "Till the World Ends" either. There were plenty of videos that wowed us in 2011, from artists both big and small. And after some rather zesty debate in the MTV Newsroom, we've compiled some of our favorites. Have a look at our picks for the Other Videos of the Year.
Arcade Fire, "The Suburbs"
A stirring, somber clip that's part political treatise (the perils of colonialism, the erosion of civil liberties, etc.), part social commentary (the steady advance of adulthood, the preponderance of the past) and all compelling. It's part of a larger film from director Spike Jonze and the band. Proof that sometimes the best artists actually do make the best art.
Battles, "Ice Cream"
A collection of seemingly random images — Karate! Some dude drinking milk! Bowling! A girl licking a doorknob! — tossed in a blender and whirled into a seizure-inducing syrup. The end result is a blissed-out, kinetic trip, and while it doesn't make an ounce of sense, when paired with Battles' spastic strut, it almost does. Almost being the operative word, of course.
James Blake, "Limit to Your Love"
A clip that's as sumptuously simple as the track it backs, "Limit to Your Love" is little more than scenes of urban malaise — a darkly lit apartment, a decadently unmade bed, a decaying wooden floor — but its true power lies in the wonder it creates within those confines. Appliances limp to life, fruit hovers in the air, and a churning sea appears out of thin air. Like Blake's music, there's magic in the minimalism.
Kanye West, "Monster"
The disclaimer at the beginning states that "Monster" is "an art piece and it shall be taken as such," but as is the case with pretty much everything Kanye does, it's not that simple. Because while some decried the clip for its (frankly pretty brutal) misogynistic leanings — and with the abundance of half-nude women, fully deceased women, who can blame them? — few could deny that "Monster" is also a jarring, compelling, decidedly dark masterstroke. Deeply troubling torture porn or totally realized work of art? Probably both.
Manchester Orchestra, "Simple Math"
The year's most brilliant, beautiful (and quite possibly best) video, "Simple Math" twists time and space — the whole thing plays out over the time it takes frontman Andy Hull's truck to spin violently off the road — into a Möbius strip of memories, and the result is powerful enough to send shivers down your spine. Sure, it's about the fleeting nature of life, but really, it dares to ask an even bigger question: What do you see when you die? Your regrets? Your triumphs? Your loves? How about all the above?
My Chemical Romance, "Na Na Na"
A breakneck, candy-colored, full-throttle thrill ride through pop culture's past, set in the postapocalyptic future. Only My Chemical Romance could make a video this deliriously over-the-top, not to mention this dedicated to being flat-out ridiculous. It's a talent, really.
Portugal. The Man, "Sleep Forever"
A 13-minute mini-movie shot in and around frontman John Gorley's native Alaska, it gradually dissolves into a metaphoric tale of survival — one man wandering the wilderness — with an appropriately gruesome conclusion. Part fever dream, part epic, wide-screen experience, it may not end on a particularly positive note, but really, neither does life.
Radiohead, "Lotus Flower"
The video that spawned a million memes, "Lotus Flower" isn't flashy like Radiohead's older clips; it's just Thom Yorke, in a bowler hat and button-up, spazzing out to the song. And yet, it's infinitely watchable, both as a curio case and a compelling little bit of art. Also because, man, it's fun to try and replicate Thom's moves. And then go to the chiropractor.
Robyn, "Call Your Girlfriend"
Part of Robyn's endearing charm lies in the fact that she's never afraid to go it alone. And in "Call Your Girlfriend," she does just that. It's just her, dancing in a warehouse, while lights dazzle and the song soars. Of course, the video is oddly sad too (mostly because she's all by her lonesome, singing for a love she cannot have), which goes to yet another part of that aforementioned charm: Even her most sugary bonbons come with a bittersweet filling.
What are your picks for Other Videos of the Year? Let us know in the comments!
The 2011 Video Music Awards air live Sunday, August 28, from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Related Videos Related Photos Related ArtistsSource: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1667802/vma-video-nominees-kanye-robyn.jhtml
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