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Norah Jones Live Webcast on Letterman
May 2, 2012 - Norah Jones is set to appear with a Live-on-Letterman webcast, featuring Jones from the prestigious Ed Sullivan Theater in New York, tonight - Wednesday, May 2nd at 8:00 ET. This is a clever, strategic move for Jones to push her next album “Little Broken Hearts” set for a May 1st release.

Norah’s Live-on-Letterman webcast will come after the taping of her gig on the Late Show with David Letterman, which will be aired later that evening on CBS.

Norah will also be part of San Francisco’s 2012 “Outside Lands Festival “ line-up and featured with great artists she has worked with in her career such as Foo Fighters, Beck, Jack White, Santigold and Neil Young. The festival is set to take place August 10-12. MORE

Bob Baldwin – Presents Betcha By Golly Wow – The Songs of Thom Bell – Peak Records (**2 out of 5 STARS)
May 1, 2012 - We live in a world where most instrumental music sounds like it was made for a 5x5 vertically moving room and that includes some Smooth Jazz. Interestingly, most Smooth Jazz musicians are technically some of the best players on the planet but many have fallen into this big vacuous hole, an amnesic state, where channelling Bert Kaempfert is common place. Case in point, the beginning of Bob Baldwin’s new album, “Betcha By Golly Wow,” gave me visions of Ed Grimley swatting fireflies with a spaghetti baton. This Thom Bell salute starts really soft with the Delfonics 1970 hit, ‘Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time).’ It was Bell’s third hit with the band. Russ Freeman’s guitar work is fantastic, as usual, but flautist Ragan Whiteside dresses the tune with a polka dot poncho – I’ll take floor number 4 please! Seriously, doing covers is a tough gig and interpretation with instrumental music is a whole other Matterhorn to climb. It’s just too easy to slip into Muzak and this opening tune is driving way too close to that dotted line. Bell was well known for his lush arrangements but not for putting anyone to sleep. MORE

David Benoit Continues His Musical “Conversation” This May
April 27, 2012 – Get ready for another beautiful journey from David Benoit on May 29th. His new album, `Conversation,’ will no doubt serve as another expansion for the Smooth Jazz format.

The genre is restructuring and, in the end, that’s great news for you the listener. Why? Well, musicians are getting away from tired formulas – they are being musicians again! Interestingly, David Benoit has never played that game. Every single one of his albums has been different sonic adventures.

For three-and-a-half decades, Benoit has easily proven that Classical, Latin, Pop and Jazz are a necessary part of a musician’s palette. This is an artist who has innate curiosity and love for all music. I doubt that Benoit separates his CD collection via genre.

Special guests on the project include guitarist Jeff Golub, acoustic guitarist Pat Kelley, guitarist David Pack, flutist Tim Weisberg and classical pianist Robert Theis.

Elton John Sued Over Allegedly Stealing "Nikita" Lyrics
April 27, 2012- It’s been said that some things in life may come back to haunt you and in this case, Elton John is being accused of stealing lyrics for a hit single he released back in 1985. The man coming out with these accusations is Guy Hobbs, and he says Elton‘s song “Nikita” was a rip off to a song that he wrote back in 1982 called “Natasha.” It does seem highly unlikely, however, that one of the most prolific songwriter’s, along with lyricist Bernie Taupin would ever need to steal a song from anyone!

According to TMZ, Hobbs did file the lawsuit in Illinois federal court claiming the song he wrote was based on an affair he had with a Russian cruise ship waitress…. and three years later....Elton stole his idea! Hobbs said back then he copyrighted his song “Natasha” and sent the lyrics to many publishers and even to Elton’s prominent publishing company, Lucky Pig, but never heard anything back.

When John released his hit single “Nikita” in 1985, Hobbs claims the lyrics have “significant similarities” to his song “Natasha” except Elton’s song was about a German female boarder guard. It is still unclear as to what lyrics were exactly stolen, but what makes it even more unclear is why it took Hobbs so many years to file for copyright infringement. Hobbs says since he has been hanging out in Africa since 1984, news travels slowly over there. TMZ added, that a rep for Elton and Bernie said “they do not know the plaintiff, nor did they make use of any song lyrics he claims to have written” and also the fact that Hobbs waited 26 years before coming forward makes the suit “completely meritless.” MORE

REVIEW - Esperanza Spalding – Radio Music Society (4 out of 5 Stars) – Heads Up – Concord Music Group
April 9, 2012 – Esperanza Spalding is a groovy chick. I mean, really, when she’s in the room, everyone else disappears and I’m talkin’ more than that big “love-sculpture” hair. She’s the type of musician you might walk up to at a party, ask about her music, and walk away three hours later regretting the question. This lady has a vision so you better have a seat.

‘Radio Music Society’ is Spalding’s third album and the follow to ‘Chamber Music Society,’ the titles are way too similar but the singer says the new album is meant as a companion, rather than a sequel to the last one. “Originally I thought it would be fun to release a double album,” she explains, “One disc with an intimate, subtle exploration of chamber works and a second one in which jazz musicians explore song forms and melodies that are formatted more along the lines of what we would categorize as “pop songs.”

Spalding, as you may remember, won the Grammy for ‘Best New Artist’ last year, stunning the music world because not that many people knew who she was – many still don’t! Will this album change that? Maybe, ‘Radio Music Society” is certainly a richly textured, well-balanced adventure that cleverly marries Jazz, Pop and World music. Her vision is so clearly expressed on this album that I found myself listening alone with headphones at high volume so not to miss any of her hundreds of brilliant vocal nuances.

This album is easy. It’s so effortless. Spalding’s message is like a dance, a drug that’s hard to deny. Being adventurous, in the music industry, usually has its price but this lady has found the pocket, that inviting bridge that allows the listener to simply trust.

Spalding’s mother was a single parent in Portland, Oregon and home-schooled her daughter for a few years during elementary school. A very young Esperanza spotted classical cellist Yo Yo Ma on ‘Mister Roger’s Neighbourhood,’ so many years ago and her fate was set – she knew her mission in life. READ THE WHOLE REVIEW

Pink Floyd Set to Release ‘Making of 'Wish You Were Here' on DVD
April 7, 2012 – Great news for Pink Floyd fans. After a slew of re-releases last year there’s more to come with the DVD documentary on the making of another classic album, ‘Wish You Were Here.’

Set for June 26th release, the DVD will feature brand new interviews with surviving members David Gilmour, Roger Waters and Nick Mason as well as archival chats with Richard Wright, who died of cancer in 2008 at the age of 65.

The distributors, Eagle Rock Entertainment, have released some great details on the project. You can also expect folk legend and guest vocalist Roy Harper to appear as well as cover art designer Storm Thorgerson and even the “burning man” dude on the cover of the album, Ronnie Rondell.

Band members will also talk about a very unexpected and infamous visit, to Abbey Road Studios, from original member Syd Barrett who slowly lost his mind after leaving Pink Floyd. The tune, 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond,' was inspired by him.

‘Wish You Were Here’ was released on September 12, 1975. It was the follow-up to their huge hit “Dark Side of the Moon.’ MORE

KISS Supports War Veterans Looking For Roadie
April 5, 2012- The band KISS is touring with Motley Crue this summer and they want to hire a veteran to hang out with the band on the road.  KISS is participating in a program called "Hiring Our Heroes."  They are looking for a strong hand that can help in setting up the stage, running effects and breaking it all down.  The winning candidate does not have to have any experience but must be prepared to work long hours.  This all takes place from mid- July to the end of September.

KISS has also donated thousands of dollars to the Wounded Warrior Project and they have been long time supporters of the U.S military.

Up for the challenge? Send an email to hiringourheroes@uschamber.com with your resume and contact details.  MORE

It's Time for Our Annual Garage Sale!
March 12, 2012 - Each year we clean house at the Smooth Jazz Now studios. It's time for our annual fundraiser! We are raising funds for our new mixing board for the main studio and your help would be appreciated.

Here's how it works. We are adding new Ebay auctions every day offering 10-CD sets with starting bids of $9.99. That's $1 for a CD!!!

In many cases the CD's are still sealed and/or have only been played once. Also since there are three radio stations under our roof (the others being www.rockhistorybook.com and www.whatsinvisible.com), you will see auctions featuring many genre's including Traditional Jazz. Rock, New-Age, ambient etc. Also look for some autographed CD and LP's.

Remember we will be adding 20-30 auctions every day for the next 30 days.

Happy bidding and thanks for the support! Check out our auction page HERE

Adele Wins Six Grammy Awards And Nicki Minaj Embarrasses Herself
February 12, 2012 - As expected it was a huge night for Adele at the Grammy Awards. The singer, from Tottenham, North London, England, walked away with six trophies including "Song," "Record" and "Album of the Year." In her usually classy way she thanked "the doctors who brought my voice back." On stage she described her album "21" as a story that "everyone's been through. Which is a rubbish relationship." Adele's totals tied her with Beyonce as the most wins by a woman in one evening but if you judge it for vocal prowess, it's Adele hands down!

Nicki Minaj, who I don't really consider a musician, presented a convoluted, silly performance. It was easily one of the most embarrassing performances in Grammy history. In it's very Lady Gaga-esque over-the-top attention seeking shtick Minjaj lip-synched through exorcism on stage to one of the worse songs ever recorded - "Roman Holiday." Hey Nicki, can you hear the sound of angry catholics at your door? Good luck with that!!

The Foo Fighters were also big winners with five Grammy’s. Lead singer Dave Grohl walked on stage and reminded the audience how the band’s new album "Wasting Light" was recorded in his garage, the old fashioned way. He said, "The human element of making music is most important. Singing into a microphone, learning to play your instrument. It's not about being perfect. It's not about what goes on in a computer, but what goes on in here and what goes in here," as he pointed to his head and heart. The strange part was the Foo Fighters then performed in the Electronic dance music set of the
evening?

Kanye West, who had the most nominations at seven, picked up four Grammy’s.

Also a big congrats to Justin Vernon and his band Bon Iver who won Best New Artist and Best Alternative Album.

The night was filled with tributes including the reunited Beach Boys, Glen Campbell and, of course, Whitney Houston. Jennifer Hudson's rendition of the Dolly Parton penned "I Will Always Love You," a Whitney signature song, was breathtaking. Houston died yesterday in L.A.

There was a huge milestone for Alison Krauss who officially became the only living artist with 28 Grammy Awards. She surpassed Quincy Jones tonight by winning Best Bluegrass Album.

Unfortunately, Dave Koz did not win a Grammy tonight. He was nominated for Best Pop Instrumental Album for "Hello Tomorrow," Booker T Jones won it for his CD "The Road From Memphis."

The Best New Age album went to Pat Metheny (he must be so happy to be known as a New-Ager) for "What's It All About."

Best Improvised Jazz Solo was awarded to Chick Corea for "500 Miles High." He also won for his trio, Corea, Clarke and White, for Best Jazz Instrumental Album with the CD "Forever." Terri Lyne Carrington picked up Best Jazz Vocal Album.

Bela Fleck and Howard Levy were honored with Best Instrumental Composition
for "Life In Eleven." MORE

Your 54th Annual Grammy Awards Updates
February 12, 2012 - This is how to start a shindig! Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band opened the 54th Annual Grammy Awards with the new single "We Take Care Of Our Own." It was big, it was real, it was beautiful. 

LL Cool J, the nights MC, started his job by saying a prayer for Whitney Houston who died in L.A. yesterday. The reality of her death certainly hit hard when Whitney was featured on the giant screen singing "I Will Always Love You."

Bruno Mars showed his harder edge performing "Runaway Baby" from his "Doo - Wops & Hooligans" album.

Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt did both the Blues and Etta James proud by performing the late music icon's great hit "Sunday Kind Of Love." The pair also gave out the nights first award "Best Pop Solo Performance" which was picked up by Adele and "Someone Like You."

Chris Brown, who famously almost lost his career and freedom a few years ago at the Grammy's after beating the crap out of Rhianna, performed next. He's as much of a great lip-syncher as he is a dancer. It was a great performance however.

Best Rap Performance goes to Jay-Z and Kanye West for Otis. 

Jack Black introduced the sensational Foo Fighters who blew the roof off with their nominated "Walk." Best performance so far!

Coldplay and Rihanna shared the stage next. Well, at least Coldplay sounded good!

Best Rock Performance was picked up by Foo Fighters for "Walk."

Maroon 5 kicked off the Beach Boys tribute with "Surfer Girl." Foster the People did  a great job of "Wouldn't It Be Nice." Then for their 50th Anniversary the reunited Beach Boys took to the stage to perform one of the most loved songs in pop history "Good Vibrations." It was classic!

It's an event when Paul McCartney does anything but having Paul perform with Diana Krall and the Eagles Joe Walsh, well, it doesn't get much more tasty than this. Paul performed his new Jazz single "My Valentine" followed by, of course, a standing ovation.

Chris Brown won "Best R&B Album" for F.A.M.E.

The Civil Wars seemed to upstage Taylor Swift with her kiddie-country music and her variation on a boy-done-me-wrong theme. God this girl's music is boring!

Song of the Year was won by Adele's "Rolling In The Deep." Everyone predicted this one!

"Own The Night" by Lady Antebellum was Top Country Album.

Adele's comback was complete when the talented singer took to the stage for her hit "Rolling In The Deep." After undergoing a throat operation there was no doubt tonight that her pipes were back! She also got a much deserved standing ovation.  Maybe Lady Gaga learned something, probably not.

The Glen Campbell tribute was sensational with Blake Shelton, looking too uptight as usual, doing a cool version of "Southern Nights" and he also had the pleasure in introducing Campbell, who suffers from Alzheimer's. The music legend sang his signature "Rhinestone Cowboy."  He received the recording Academy's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Best New Artist was Wisconsin-bred band Bon Iver.

Gerry Rafferty was missing from the tributes of fallen music heroes that we lost in the last year and Dan Peek of the group America was also not mentioned. Jennifer Hudson did an amazing rendition of Whitney Houston's classic "I Will Always Love You."  It was a vocal triumph and a fitting tribute to the wonderful voice that put Whitney on the map over and over in the eighties and nineties. Something that Hudson seemed to pull off tonight.

Drake introduced Nicki Minaj who served up the most embarrassing moment, that I can remember, in Grammy history. Her over-the-top badly theatrical lip-synched performance was hard to watch in that half-baked high school kind-of-way. As the cliche goes that's five minutes I can never get back!

Adele, again to no one's surprise, won Record of the Year and Album of the Year.

McCartney closed off the show with some Beatles classics. He was joined by Bruce Springsteen, Joe Walsh and Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters. Could it get any better? Easily one of the best Grammy nights ever - minus Miss Minaj.  MORE

Whitney Houston Died in the Bathtub
February 12, 2011 – More information is surfacing concerning the death of Whitney Houston. Sources close to the investigation say that the singer was found in the bathtub at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles. Her face was underwater.

Houston’s stylist, hairdresser and two bodyguards were just outside the bathroom at the time of her death. The crew were set to help the singer prepare for the Clive Davis pre-Grammy party. After not hearing from Whitney for over an hour they became concerned. One of them knocked on the bathroom door but heard no answer. That’s when a female hairdresser opened the door and screamed when she saw Whitney with her face underwater and her legs were up. One of the bodyguards quickly pulled her out and attempted CPR. Unfortunately, the singer was probably already dead as her body was very cold.

After paramedics arrived they also tried, in vain, to save her live. She was pronounced dead at 3:55PM.

Sources also say that the singer was taking Xanax. When she had big performances it’s something she took to calm her nerves and last night she was set to perform a song at the Clive Davis event. Some are guessing that she may have fallen asleep in the bathtub and drowned.

Houston was also drinking a lot the night before she died.

It’s been reported that Whitney suffered from anxiety and panic attacks and had prescription pills to help nerves. Whitney Houston was just 48.  MORE

Whitney Houston’s Mom Says The Singer Seemed Fine Before Her Death
February 11, 2012 – According to Whitney Houston’s mother, Cissy Houston, she spoke to her daughter just before she died and Whitney seemed absolutely fine.

The elder Houston says she spoke to her daughter about 30 minutes before she died. The pair talked about attending the Clive Davis (pictured with Houston) pre-Grammy party.

Whitney apparently spoke to her cousin, singer Dionne Warwick a few hours earlier today and says there were no signs of trouble. The pair also talked about the pre-Grammy party and how they both wanted to sit together.

Whitney was spotted outside a nightclub this week looked heavily intoxicated. There were also rumors that the singer was on the brink of bankruptcy.

Houston died at 3:35PM today at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. No cause of death has been released.  MORE

Whitney Houston May Have Already Been Dead When Paramedics Arrived
February 11, 2012  - Whitney Houston died this afternoon. She was 48. Some sources are saying there was nothing the emergency workers could have done to save Houston’s life.

A member of the singers entourage found her in her room at the Beverly Hilton hotel this afternoon and immediately called hotel security, then 911 was called. According to some sources Houston was unresponsive by the time paramedics arrived.

Paramedics performed CPR but nothing worked. She was pronounced dead at 3:55PM.

According to Associated Press there were no signs of foul play in her room however a full investigation is underway.

Houston had a well-publicized battle with drugs for many years. MORE

Whitney Houston Dead at 48
February 11, 2012 – Whitney Houston has died according to her publicist. The singer, who was 48, passed away today according to Kristen Foster but it was unclear how the singer died. According to some sources, Houston died at the Beverly Hilton hotel.

Of course the Internet is abuzz on the cause of death being drug related but nothing has been officially announced.

Houston peaked in the 1980’s and ‘90’s with huge hits like "How Will I Know," "Saving All My Love for You" and "I Will Always Love You." She not only had one of the best voices in any genre but also won numerous accolades including 6 Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards and 22 American Music Awards. Needless to say tomorrow nights Grammy broadcast will no doubt be filled with Whitney tributes.

In recent years her career plummeted because of drug use, a Jerry Springer-type marriage to singer Bobby Brown and that brilliant voice seemed to be gone. MORE

Toto’s Steve Lukather Set to Join Ringo Starr's 13th All Starr Band Tour
February 10, 2012 – It’s no secret that Steve Lukather, like many of us, is a huge Beatles fan. It was announced this week that the Toto guitarist and founding member will join Ringo for the famous tour to begin in Niagara Falls Ontario on June 14th.

Lukather says, "I am deeply honored and excited to join some old and new friends and a musical hero Ringo Starr on this summers USA tour. It is a dream come true and I plan to being my best and enjoy every moment! Its gonna be massive fun!"

Also announced on the tour are Gregg Rolie of Santana & Journey fame along with All Starr alumni Richard Page, Todd Rundgren, Mark Rivera, and Gregg Bissonette.

Each musician gets to sing their classic hits and Ringo does his biggies including, "It Don't Come Easy", "Photograph", "Little Help From My Friends" etc.

The tour runs until July 21 at the Greek Theatre in L.A. but more tour dates are expected to be announced shortly. MORE

Norah Jones to Release New Album in Spring
Jan 31, 2012 - Good news for all the Norah Jones fans out there! The singer is set to release a new album in spring called 'Little Broken Hearts.'  This will be Jones' fifth studio CD and she will be joined by producer and musician, Danger Mouse who is notably the backbone for the project. He also co-wrote many of the tunes with her.

Jones will really be promoting this project with tons of shows this year. She is set to appear at many festivals including a stint at the Hollywood Bowl.

Though she has never out-performed her debut album, "Come Away with Me," from 2002, the nine-time-Grammy winner, with the famous rootsy voice, just keeps belting out the tunes. Norah insists on writing songs that speak to her soul more than returning to the same radio-formula hits of the past. MORE

Springsteen to Release Wrecking Ball in March
Jan 24, 2012 - Bruce Springsteen is full speed ahead with his new album due out in March. “Wrecking Ball” will be his 17th studio album and is produced by heavy hitter Ron Aniello (Patti Scialfa, Jars of Clay) and talent thrown in from Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machines) and members of the E Street band.

“The lyrics tell a story you can't hear anywhere else and the music is his most innovative of recent years,” Springsteen manager Jon Landau said in a statement, via Rolling Stone. “The writing is some of the best of his career and both veteran fans and those who are new to Bruce will find much to love on Wrecking Ball.”

The album’s title comes from a debut track that Springsteen and the E Street Band played at Giants stadium in 2009. The song “Land of Hope and Dreams” is another single that will resurface on the new album, a song that was first performed at their 1999 reunion tour. Sources say a world tour looks possible for the Boss and the E Streeters in March as well. Stay tuned!  MORE

Paul McCartney to Perform at Grammy’s
January 24, 2012 - It’s a done deal as Paul has announced (via his website) that he will be preforming at the 54th annual Grammy Awards in L.A. on Feb 12. This is also a very special occasion for him as he’s nominated this year for Best Historical Album for Band On The Run. McCartney is definitely no stranger to the stage and if he wins this one it will be his 15th Grammy win in all.

Paul is keeping the pace steady leading up to the Grammy’s with his upcoming album release of “Kisses On The Bottom” scheduled to come out Feb 7th. This will be his fifteenth solo studio album and the fans are excited since his last album was almost five years ago.

McCartney has also been named the 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year and that is for recognition of a musician’s artistic and philanthropic efforts. Hats off to you Sir Paul!  MORE

John Mayer Introduces New Custom Guitar
January 23, 2012 - John Mayer has been out of the spotlight since he cancelled numerous gigs last year to undergo throat surgery. His decision to finally go under the knife was necessary after attempts to rest his voice did not help. In the meantime, John had to regroup and push back the release of his new album.

He still continues to recuperate and although not 100% with his voice Mayer made his first public appearance attending the National Association of Music Merchants Conference in California to introduce his new custom made guitar with Martin, “Rolling Stone”reports. His limited edition of these six string guitars will be sold for $14,000 and only to select dealers.

John also has a new album “Born And Raised” due out later this year and this ties in nicely for him getting back in touch with his musical roots. MORE

Etta James Dies at the Age 73
Jan 20, 2012 - Etta James, an iconic R&B American singer known for her classic songs “ At Last” and “Something’s Got A Hold Of Me” has died today at the age of 73.

Recognition and appreciation has rolled in for James over the years. She was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2000 and in 2001 she was honored with a Grammy for Lifetime Achievement. Etta was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of fame in 2003.

Etta is survived by her two sons Donto and Sametto who are both musicians that performed in her band. MORE

Lionel Richie Honored with Humanitarian Award
Dec 5, 2011- It is no surprise that today, iconic superstar Lionel Richie is set to receive from the Harvard Foundation at Kirkland House, the 2011 Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award.

Richie has written and recorded many billboard hits and has co-written a few songs aimed solely to benefit hunger victims in Africa and also for the earthquake in Haiti in 2010. He also gives back in supporting and helping to raise funds and world awareness for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

"The students and faculty of the Harvard Foundation are pleased to present the 2011 Humanitarian Award to Mr. Lionel Richie in memory of the late Reverend Peter J. Gomes," said Dr. S. Allen Counter, director of the Harvard Foundation. "Richie is one of our nation's most creative musical artists, who has inspired many through his artistic and philanthropic endeavors. Reverend Gomes would be proud of the selection of the legendary musician, Lionel Richie, for this singular honor. We are honored to have him as our special guest on the Harvard campus."

Each year the Harvard Foundation presents the Humanitarian Award to an individual who has gone above and beyond and in leading by example has been a huge inspiration for all of us. The Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award was created to give props to the life and work of Reverend Peter J. Gomes, Minister in the Memorial Church and the Plummer Professor of Christian morals. Gomes, along with President Derek C Bok came together and founded the Harvard Foundation. MORE

George Michael Recovering from Pneumonia
Nov 28, 2011 - Oh no, is what I thought when the news came out that George Michael was recently stricken with respiratory complications in Vienna, Austria. It was so bad that George has to cancel his show two hours before it was about to start, get himself into an emergency room and looked at fast!
The 48 year old pop singer was diagnosed with a lung infection and on the insistence of doctors rest is his only option. He cut out a number of shows on his ‘Symphonic’ tour to fight the illness and then decided to pull back completely.
With all the rumors floating around that Michael’s health might be deteriorating, his supposedly new boyfriend Fadi Fawaz says the singer is “getting stronger” as he battles pneumonia.
Our thoughts are with you as you get better cause you “gotta have faith!” MORE

Man Sues After Forgetting Why He Loves Playboy Mansion
Nov 30, 2011- This lawsuit might make sense if Playboy was built around watching men’s hairy butts. It appears that a man who attended the “Leather Meets Lace” party at the Playboy Mansion recently thinks the admission charge is unfair.

According to TMZ, Steve Frye is suing on behalf of all men who allegedly had to pay $1000 for admission while “gorgeous ladies” did not!  Frye claims the double standard is sex discrimination and offering these women free admission “promotes harmful, negative stereotypes.”

Maybe these guys forgot why they all go to the Playboy mansion, it’s certainly not to hang out and look at the paintings! Oh, and one last thing that puts this all in left field is that proceeds from this event went to charity. MORE

The Doors Lost Song Found
November 22, 2011 - Well, what do you know! A newly found track by The Doors discovered just in time for the 40th anniversary reissue of the band’s 1971 release, “L.A. Woman.”

The Doors producer, Bruce Botnick recently discovered the lost track “She Smells So Nice” while rummaging through the album’s session tapes for the reissue due Jan 24, Rolling Stone reports.

The two-CD set includes a bonus disc featuring covers of Willie Dixon’s “(You Need Meat) Don’t Go No Further” and Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want).” The second disc of the L.A. Woman reissue includes eight ‘never heard before’ versions of songs from the album.

“L.A. Woman” was The Doors 6th album and the last one recorded before Jim Morrison’s death. The album was released in April, 1971 and Morrison died in July, 1971.

Interestingly “L.A. Woman” was also the album that separated the band to their long time producer Paul Rothchild who didn’t like the bands direction. He was quoted as saying the project only had two good songs, the hits, “Riders on the Storm” and the title track. He later called the album “dog meat.”

Rothchild died in 1995 from lung cancer. He was 59. MORE

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band Back in 2012
November 22, 2011 - If you click on the official website of Springsteen you will see that it indeed confirms a new album and tour are in the works for 2012.

Excited European fans can see Springsteen and The E Street Band from the middle of May until the end of July and the U.S. and world tour dates are still in the making.

The tour will be E Street’s first in three years and without the incredible presence of Clarence Clemons, who died last June from a stroke at age 69. There has been no word on who is going to fit in his shoes. Also, original keyboardist Danny Federici died in 2008 at age 58 from melanoma.

As for the new album? Springsteen says the band is “incredibly excited” for the new year and the music for the new album is “almost done” untitled, and with no release date yet determined.

The Boss and the boys are pumped about everything they are planning for 2012. We just have to stay tuned! MORE

Death of the CD Expected By 2013
November 22, 2011 - Industry insiders are saying that the compact disc may be a thing of the past within 2 years! I remember when that little shiny disc wiped out the cassette tape and I thought that would never happen.

According to Side Line Music Magazine, the CD is set to expire by 2013 and will be in motion to start elimination sometime into 2012. The only CD’s that will be out there will be limited edition prints from major record labels. Here we are now left wrapping our minds round streaming and digital download options with retailers such as iTunes and Amazon. The truly bad news is a digital download has inferior sound to a CD, so once again I guess speed kills.

The magazine tried to get a statement from some of the big labels to confirm the extinction of the CD and no one would come forward but some employees and associates of the labels said indeed things are in the works.

Are The Police Returning?
Nov 16, 2011- Well, if you’ve got the main member of the band saying no then that’s a big fat no! In an interview with Billboard Magazine, Sting, vocalist/bassist of the band (that was most popular in the 70’s and 80’s) can’t see the trio getting back together again. “You know, it's something I am very proud of but I’m not sure there would be a reason to open it again except for nostalgic reasons, and I think we did that” in 2007-2008, he said. “I thought we did it very successfully. The timing was perfect. Everybody was happy to see us. So you know say, ‘OK, let’s close the book….”

 Here’s a double whammy too for Sting fans as he says they shouldn’t expect a solo album anytime soon either. Ouch!

Right now Sting is promoting his 25 Years box set, one-CD greatest hits album and iTunes app. “It’s hard to know what the new model is. I think the app is the new model,” says Sting. “People are going to stop buying CDs. People are going to stop selling and making them, so I am looking for different ways to get music to people, and the application at the moment seems to be the favorite.” Looks like Sting is just moving with the times. MORE

Want to Get Rid of Kim Kardashian? Sign the NO MORE KARDASHIAN Petition
November 16, 2011 – Want to get rid of Kim Kardashian? Take all the cameras out of the room. Your problem will be solved.

Enough is enough is what many people are saying about Kim Kardashian and her publicity-seeking clan. Well, maybe you can do something about it or at least get a message across.

Someone with the log-in name janesmith is targeting the Kardashian’s and E-Online. Here is her message;

I am asking people to sign a petition that will be forwarded to E! Online to request that the show ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashians’ ends.

Please sign. However, if you leave comments, no foul language, belittling etc should be used. Example, what you see on comment boards.

I need for everyone to post this link to Facebook.. Twitter.. Email. This will close November 30th. We need several thousand to be heard!

Also please forward this link. We need many signatures!

Sign the petition here. http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/no-more-kardashian.html

Rumors Are True: Black Sabbath Reunion
November 16, 2011 - Let it be known that Black Sabbath gives full props to producer Rick Rubin for getting the band back together. Ozzy Osbourne, Tommy Lommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward confirmed that the rumors were indeed true. The band is in fact getting back together to hit the studios after Christmas to start recording their new album. Wow, the first album in 33 years and all this excitement is set for release in fall of 2012 and will of course coincide with a world tour.

Lommi says the experience is “like putting on an old glove” and Osbourne pipes in that they have written seven or eight songs. These guys mean business! To help mark the 10th anniversary at next year’s Download Festival in England the band is already scheduled to make an appearance there.

Sabbath did try to bring a new album back into the works in 1999 but that fizzled out and the band was last seen together on stage in 2006 when they were honored into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame.

So cheers, long live Sabbath! - MORE

What’s My Name Again? Townshend of the Who Recalls Fight with Daltrey
November 14, 2011 - Pete Townshend recalls the moment when Who band mate Roger Daltrey, punched him so hard with one strike that he lost his memory for two days! Can you say ouch!

The fight apparently took place when The Who were finishing the last touches on their album Quadrophenia released in 1973. Daltrey was hanging out in the studio to wrap up some final mixes and Townshend already felt he was done with it.

The guitarist tells the Times: “I walked into the studio having not slept for two days after doing the final mixes. I had been in my big Mercedes limousine drinking brandy. Roger was in the studio, having waited for me for the last five hours.” ‘We’ve done it!’ I shouted at him. “Yeah? Well I’ve been here since one o’clock and I’m going.’ Roger said. “‘You can’t fucking go,’ I said. He pushed me out the way. I spat at him – and I got knocked out,” said Townshend. Pete recalls coming around an hour later and his memory non-existent for two days! Now that’s a punch!

Townshend recently put together a new edition of Quadrophenia and he personally feels it was the last great album by The Who. He also says once Daltrey gets back from his solo band tour he hopes they will hit the studios again together. READ MORE

Will The Rolling Stones Tour for 50th Anniversary?
November 14, 2011 - Whenever a band goes to reissue an album, we are always left wondering whether or not they will go on tour to promote it!

This is definitely the case with the Rolling Stones who are promoting the release of two “Some Girls” projects: a reissue of the 1978 album, containing 12 tracks from the original sessions; and, "Some Girls Live in Texas 1978" on DVD and Blu-ray.

This is all good when the band is talking 1978, but what about now? The Stones are being hit with the big question if they will put together a tour to mark their 50th Anniversary. Fans are talking since Keith Richards also told Rolling Stone Magazine that he is planning to meet with Charlie Watts and Ronnie Woods later this month in a London studio. "We're just going to play a little together, because we haven't played for three or four years," Keith explains. "You don't necessarily want to rehearse or write anything – you just want to touch bases. That's a good start: me, Charlie and Ronnie. Mick's welcome, and I'm sure he'll turn up, but right now we just want to get our chops down."

I get a feeling if the moment moves them anything is possible and the fans are always standing by. READ MORE

Dr. Conrad Murray Found Guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter
November 7, 2011 – Michael Jackson fans are cheering in the streets right now. Dr. Conrad Murray has just been found guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter.

All twelve jurors found Michael Jackson’s last doctor responsible for his death.

A sentencing date was set for November 29, 2011. Murray was denied bail for his own safety and for the safety of the public. He was led away in handcuffs.

A “Journey” Reunion Ain’t Gonna Happen!
November 4, 2011 - Whenever I see the words in print “Journey “and “Steve Perry” I wonder if this is going to be it, are we finally going to see a reunion or something? Well, let it be known that according to Steve Perry (former lead singer of Journey) that just ain’t gonna happen! Even with a new Journey package in stores now with “Greatest Hits Volume 2” and the song “Don’t Stop Believin” playing like a mantra in our ears?

In a phone chat about this project to The Associated Press Perry says,’  "It's like any emotional, committed relationship. At some point, they seem to all have a shelf life and bands are no exception."  He also admits that "Life has moved us all on in different places in our lives. They're doing what they're doing — they have been since '98. And I've been doing what I'm doing, which is living my life and having a personal life.”

Being out of the spotlight, Steve says that he is in a good space and does not totally rule out touring again, it just won’t be with Journey.  Well,  I guess this case is closed, but I won’t stop believin! - By Shannon Edwards

Update: At the 2011 Billboard Touring Awards on Nov 10 at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York Journey will receive the “Legend Of Live” Award. Guitarist Neal Schon will be there to pick up the honor.

How many of you follow Journey since Steve Perry left the band?  Who was your fav. lead singer of Journey? take a poll?  MORE

Michael Bublé Works Harder for What He’s Got!
November 4, 2011 - Here is a Canadian crooner who has won over the hearts of many with his genuine voice, captivating smile and boyish looks. The singer has sold over 35 million records worldwide and has won many awards during his solo career.

Michael works harder for what he’s got and realizes how much he could lose, especially while sitting at the top of his game. ''I’m more afraid of failure now than I have ever been,” Bublé told British magazine GQ. “It's only recently I've understood the maths of what make artists go up and down. They make too much money. They have too many people blowing smoke up their ass. You have to have that fear and desperation. Always want to do something better.”

Buble’ is now getting set for the festive season promoting his new Christmas album, which is no doubt going to be another hit. The 36-year old performer feels very fortunate to have many devoted fans and consistent record sales.

Now Even More Chances to Win an iPad-2 From Smooth Jazz Now – LISTEN TODAY TO WIN
August 3, 2011 – Last week “Smooth Jazz Now” called out one name to win a new Apple iPad-2. Today, starting, at 12/noon (eastern) we will give up to 4 listeners a chance to win the hottest gadget in the world.

John Beaudin will call out a name at noon, if that person does not call us back, at  (917) 310-7625, within 15 minutes he will call out another name at 12:15PM, then 12:30 and finally at 12:45.

These are the top-of-the-line iPad 2’s with Wi-Fi + 3G and 64 gigs. You can't buy a better iPad!

Make sure you are a member of our mailing list. You need to be to win! If you are not a member then simply join via the pop-up that appears when you go to listen to Smooth Jazz Now Radio. (Top right hand side of each page of our site)

Want to increase your chances to win? Just forward our weekly emails to a friend and our tracking system will let us know. You will get an extra chance to win with every person you forward our mailer to. Why not increase your odds.

Members of our mailing list also have a chance to win a “Mountain of 100 Classic CD’s” on Wednesday, August 31 at 1:10PM. Just listen for your name. Also “Smooth Jazz Now” hands out "Classic Albums Ten Packs” each weekday. Listen to Smooth Jazz Now at 11:10AM,  1:10PM, 3:10PM and 5:10PM (all times eastern) with John Beaudin. If you hear your name call us back at (917) 310-7625 within 15 minutes and the albums are yours!

The new iPad-2 is thinner, lighter and faster than it’s predecessor. It’s a must have! MORE

Smooth Jazz Now Tightens Up The Sound
August 2, 2011 – With two more Smooth Jazz stations (WLOQ in Orlando and Wave/Toronto) giving up on the format this week we thought it was time to mix up the genre, just a bit! “Smooth Jazz Now” has decided to add more life to this format.

You may have noticed a gradual change in our sound during the last month. We have re-listened to every song on our station, carefully, to make sure they represent a sense of positivity, an interesting journey and most of all we listened for melody. “There has been too much generic groove in this format,” says “Smooth Jazz Now” Program Director John Beaudin. “So many of the songs sound the same and lack melody and life so we made sure to add more familiar songs with more tempo.” Consider it a “Greatest Hits” format for Smooth Jazz.

“We are lucky,” says Beaudin, “we get hundreds of calls each week from our listeners with fantastic requests and great advice – we are listening to them on where this format should go.”