Thank you for your support! Adam from Kidd Kraddick In The Morning ran 15K for Kidd's Kids inside The Mall at Steamtown. Thanks to your generosity, 2 families from NEPA with terminally or chronically ill children are headed to Disney World!
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10.03.2009
Kidd's Kids '09: Thank You!
Thank you for your support! Adam from Kidd Kraddick In The Morning ran 15K for Kidd's Kids inside The Mall at Steamtown. Thanks to your generosity, 2 families from NEPA with terminally or chronically ill children are headed to Disney World!
10.01.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Daughtry "Flattered" By Theory's Comments on RRS
Theory Of A Deadman revealed on The Ralphie Radio Show about a month ago that the band passed on a headlining Fall tour to support Daughtry’s arena tour. Chris Daughtry heard the interview.
“I was very flattered that they took us over (their own tour),” said lead singer Daughtry. “Any band like that, that’s doing it big in the rock world, that’s not too cool for school to hang with the Daughtry boys… we’re very flattered and honored.”
It’s certainly a humble statement from the front man of a band that has sold over 7.5 million albums worldwide to date. It seems as if Daughtry assumes nothing when it comes to the rock and pop realms.
“Same with Nickelback, when we did that tour… these guys are huge in the rock world, and we just feel like the freshmen in high school just trying to get our props.” Daughtry said.
Props or otherwise, the band is clearly doing something right as it readies for its first arena trek – a new venue that will bring a different performance.
“We’re gonna have pyro this time, I think,” said Daughtry. “Our stage is obviously going to be bigger – more production, more lights.”
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Download the mp3
Click here to purchase tickets to Daughtry's show at Wachovia Arena.
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Chris noted that the target set time is about an hour and a half. This brings yet another facet in to view – the physical preparation.
“Any time you’re playing that long, as a singer, (it’s) definitely a stretch, especially when you’re used to playing, yunno, an hour at the most,” he said. “And these songs, some of them are just ridiculous to sing. Some of them… once you listen back to it, you’re like, ‘Why did I write that?’”
So Daughtry is hitting the gym to ready himself for the 36 date jaunt that begins October 19 in Topeka, KS. So is guitarist Brian Craddock, but he joked that it’s for different reasons.
“I developed, while in Germany, this beer gut,” Craddock admitted, while laughing. Although, Daughtry quickly pointed out that everybody sings during the show at one point or another.
Everyone doesn’t “tweet” though. Craddock is the self-described cynic of the crew – ever since a bad experience with his MySpace profile and spam, he stays away from the social networking sites. Meanwhile, Daughtry updates his Twitter account all the time. Apparently, he even checks his “at replies.”
“I think I see you on Twitter a lot,” Daughtry commented regarding my posts. “If I check, when I’ve only gotten maybe 40 or 50 tweets in, I can stay on top of it.”
“I was very flattered that they took us over (their own tour),” said lead singer Daughtry. “Any band like that, that’s doing it big in the rock world, that’s not too cool for school to hang with the Daughtry boys… we’re very flattered and honored.”
It’s certainly a humble statement from the front man of a band that has sold over 7.5 million albums worldwide to date. It seems as if Daughtry assumes nothing when it comes to the rock and pop realms.
“Same with Nickelback, when we did that tour… these guys are huge in the rock world, and we just feel like the freshmen in high school just trying to get our props.” Daughtry said.
Props or otherwise, the band is clearly doing something right as it readies for its first arena trek – a new venue that will bring a different performance.
“We’re gonna have pyro this time, I think,” said Daughtry. “Our stage is obviously going to be bigger – more production, more lights.”
---
Download the mp3
Click here to purchase tickets to Daughtry's show at Wachovia Arena.
---
Chris noted that the target set time is about an hour and a half. This brings yet another facet in to view – the physical preparation.
“Any time you’re playing that long, as a singer, (it’s) definitely a stretch, especially when you’re used to playing, yunno, an hour at the most,” he said. “And these songs, some of them are just ridiculous to sing. Some of them… once you listen back to it, you’re like, ‘Why did I write that?’”
So Daughtry is hitting the gym to ready himself for the 36 date jaunt that begins October 19 in Topeka, KS. So is guitarist Brian Craddock, but he joked that it’s for different reasons.
“I developed, while in Germany, this beer gut,” Craddock admitted, while laughing. Although, Daughtry quickly pointed out that everybody sings during the show at one point or another.
Everyone doesn’t “tweet” though. Craddock is the self-described cynic of the crew – ever since a bad experience with his MySpace profile and spam, he stays away from the social networking sites. Meanwhile, Daughtry updates his Twitter account all the time. Apparently, he even checks his “at replies.”
“I think I see you on Twitter a lot,” Daughtry commented regarding my posts. “If I check, when I’ve only gotten maybe 40 or 50 tweets in, I can stay on top of it.”
9.30.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Meet Tamar Kaprelian
You know the premise by now – budding, raw talent builds following through social networking site, catches the eye of someone important, lands a record deal. Sean Kingston reached out to J.R. Rotem on MySpace, and then found the Island singer I-Yaz. MySpace is the same site that helped the career of Colbie Caillat. Priscilla Renea and Esmee Denters were both YouTube sensations before catching the eyes and ears of Capitol Records and Justin Timberlake, respectively.
Thing is, the story is becoming more and more common. While all the aforementioned artists have or are receiving airplay on mainstream radio – there are still others, waiting in the wings, with much more than a webcam to promote their talent.
Enter Tamar Kaprelian.
The 23 year-old wrote, played, and sang for six years. She eventually decided YouTube might be the best outlet to perform, connect, and network until she could get discovered. Then in March of 2008, Kaprelian won an online contest for her cover of OneRepublic’s “Apologize.” Soon after, the band’s record label, Interscope, signed Tamar to a deal.
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Almost two years later, Kaprelian will release her first LP, slated for February 2010. Tamar has split her time in the past 18 months between touring, writing, and charity work: the singer is just finishing a 30-day, 30-city tour for Feeding America. Kaprelian joined forces with the likes of David Arquette and The Cheesecake Factory for “Drive Out Hunger”, raising soup donations for the needy. After performing Saturday night in New York City, Kaprelian woke up at her usual 4 a.m. for the next stop – Edison, NJ. This is where I met up with her – to chat about the soup drive and the music projects – amidst the Menlo Park Mall – which echoed with the chants and cheers of caffeine-fueled workers accepting donations.
“I worked for Cheesecake Factory before I signed with Interscope,” revealed Kaprelian. “They’ve been so supportive of my music, and of my career, and so they asked me to get involved with this charity, and I said of course.”
---
Part 1: Feeding America/Cheesecake Factory, OneRepublic Contest, YouTube
Part 2: "The Hills", Armenian Heritage, Forthcoming LP
---
The tour provides Kaprelian with quite the change of perspective. As we sat in an almost empty restaurant, people who worked a job she once held scurried about around us, setting tables and preparing for open.
“It is very surreal, but I feel very blessed,” Kaprelian said. At two different points during the interview, a server mistook us for two customers. Each time, Kaprelian stopped and thanked the person for attempting to wait on us, before informing them that we were just in the restaurant to take refuge from the noisy chambers of the mall.
Kaprelian wraps up the food drive on October 1, and then heads back to Los Angeles. She’s already worked on two tracks for the LP with OneRepublic front man Ryan Tedder – one of which Tamar reveals is a duet with label mate and All-American Rejects lead singer Tyson Ritter.
“It’s gonna be a cool record… he’s so talented,” Kaprelian said of her time working with Ritter. The collaboration wasn’t her first encounter with AAR – she sang backup for the group on “Ellen”, “Jimmy Kimmel Live”, and “The Tonight Show.”
Butch Walker also contributes to the project, which is yet to be titled. Kaprelian seems to be mulling over three options – Delicate Soul, It Is What It Is, or Sinner Or Saint.
The title may not be chosen, but the first single is: Kaprelian confirmed that “New Day” will be the lead song from the album. The track gained notoriety when MTV featured it in the last scene of Season 5 on “The Hills” – the track served as Lauren Conrad’s swan song. Kaprelian told me that she knew it’d be in the finale, but had no clue as to how and when it would be heard.
“You hope (the song is) at the end,” said Kaprelian. “I was over the moon. We were in the sitting room, and my entire family and I were watching it, and it was just such a great moment.”
Tamar was born in Arizona and also raised in Georgia. Like me, she is proudly of Armenian descent. I even learned something during the interview: apparently Gwen Stefani is also Armenian.
“Family is important to us,” Kaprelian said. “(My family has been) beyond supportive. They’re really happy for me. I think they’re just proud that I get to do what I love to do every day.”
With the recent addition of a third song to iTunes, a radio promo tour set for January, and an LP to follow – the Kaprelian’s will have much to be supportive for, as Tamar will be doing what she loves on a daily basis for the foreseeable future.
Thing is, the story is becoming more and more common. While all the aforementioned artists have or are receiving airplay on mainstream radio – there are still others, waiting in the wings, with much more than a webcam to promote their talent.
Enter Tamar Kaprelian.
The 23 year-old wrote, played, and sang for six years. She eventually decided YouTube might be the best outlet to perform, connect, and network until she could get discovered. Then in March of 2008, Kaprelian won an online contest for her cover of OneRepublic’s “Apologize.” Soon after, the band’s record label, Interscope, signed Tamar to a deal.
---
---
Almost two years later, Kaprelian will release her first LP, slated for February 2010. Tamar has split her time in the past 18 months between touring, writing, and charity work: the singer is just finishing a 30-day, 30-city tour for Feeding America. Kaprelian joined forces with the likes of David Arquette and The Cheesecake Factory for “Drive Out Hunger”, raising soup donations for the needy. After performing Saturday night in New York City, Kaprelian woke up at her usual 4 a.m. for the next stop – Edison, NJ. This is where I met up with her – to chat about the soup drive and the music projects – amidst the Menlo Park Mall – which echoed with the chants and cheers of caffeine-fueled workers accepting donations.
“I worked for Cheesecake Factory before I signed with Interscope,” revealed Kaprelian. “They’ve been so supportive of my music, and of my career, and so they asked me to get involved with this charity, and I said of course.”
---
Part 1: Feeding America/Cheesecake Factory, OneRepublic Contest, YouTube
Part 2: "The Hills", Armenian Heritage, Forthcoming LP
---
The tour provides Kaprelian with quite the change of perspective. As we sat in an almost empty restaurant, people who worked a job she once held scurried about around us, setting tables and preparing for open.
“It is very surreal, but I feel very blessed,” Kaprelian said. At two different points during the interview, a server mistook us for two customers. Each time, Kaprelian stopped and thanked the person for attempting to wait on us, before informing them that we were just in the restaurant to take refuge from the noisy chambers of the mall.
Kaprelian wraps up the food drive on October 1, and then heads back to Los Angeles. She’s already worked on two tracks for the LP with OneRepublic front man Ryan Tedder – one of which Tamar reveals is a duet with label mate and All-American Rejects lead singer Tyson Ritter.
“It’s gonna be a cool record… he’s so talented,” Kaprelian said of her time working with Ritter. The collaboration wasn’t her first encounter with AAR – she sang backup for the group on “Ellen”, “Jimmy Kimmel Live”, and “The Tonight Show.”
Butch Walker also contributes to the project, which is yet to be titled. Kaprelian seems to be mulling over three options – Delicate Soul, It Is What It Is, or Sinner Or Saint.
The title may not be chosen, but the first single is: Kaprelian confirmed that “New Day” will be the lead song from the album. The track gained notoriety when MTV featured it in the last scene of Season 5 on “The Hills” – the track served as Lauren Conrad’s swan song. Kaprelian told me that she knew it’d be in the finale, but had no clue as to how and when it would be heard.
“You hope (the song is) at the end,” said Kaprelian. “I was over the moon. We were in the sitting room, and my entire family and I were watching it, and it was just such a great moment.”
Tamar was born in Arizona and also raised in Georgia. Like me, she is proudly of Armenian descent. I even learned something during the interview: apparently Gwen Stefani is also Armenian.
“Family is important to us,” Kaprelian said. “(My family has been) beyond supportive. They’re really happy for me. I think they’re just proud that I get to do what I love to do every day.”
With the recent addition of a third song to iTunes, a radio promo tour set for January, and an LP to follow – the Kaprelian’s will have much to be supportive for, as Tamar will be doing what she loves on a daily basis for the foreseeable future.
9.29.2009
Catch Up With Me On TweetPhoto
I'll still use my Facebook Mobile Uploads from time to time, but as of late, any picture I take on the road is uploaded soon after to my TweetPhoto account. Make sure you're following on Twitter :)
EXCLUSIVE: Jada!
Universal Motown's Jada stopped by The Ralphie Radio Show to catch up and play the group's new single, "Breakup Song."
Jada serenades me on stage at 97 BHT's Summer Jam.
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Part 1: "Breakup Song"
Part 2: Catching up since Summer Jam
Jada serenades me on stage at 97 BHT's Summer Jam.
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Part 1: "Breakup Song"
Part 2: Catching up since Summer Jam
9.25.2009
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: The Night Khloe & Lamar Met
Download the mp3 
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
This is one of those "Made In LaLa Land" stories...
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
EXCLUSIVE: Jason Castro Reveals Ellen Encounter, LP Title
"American Idol" alum and newly signed Atlantic Records artist Jason Castro doesn’t know if Ellen DeGeneres would’ve took a liking to him on "Idol." Castro paused for a few moments before answering and revealing an encounter with the talk show host.
“I met her once, and I know she thought I was like, trying to get off the show, which wasn’t true,” said Castro on Thursday, during a phone interview on The Ralphie Radio Show. “She was like thinking, ‘You didn’t wanna be there, did you?’ and I’m like, ‘Ohhhh, I dunno!’”
But the days of "American Idol" and what he mouthed and what he didn’t are long past Castro. Now the Dallas, Texas native is set to embark on a new career. Castro is promoting his new single, “Let’s Fall In Love Again” – a catchy, folkie, Jason Mraz-type number that makes you want to bob your head from side to side, and then maybe find that ex-lover on Facebook. The song is off of Castro’s debut LP, which he confirmed on The RRS is self-titled. It’s due out November 17.
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Part 1: Dreads, Album, Ellen
Part 2: "Let's Fall In Love Again" (Whistling Included)
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“Keepin’ it simple,” said Castro of the decision to throw his name on the album’s title. “This is Jason Castro, this is my introduction to the world.”
Perhaps “reintroduction” would have been more appropriate – but you can’t blame Castro for feeling as if he’s starting fresh. Few that have walked his path received the opportunity to write and record for a major label after "Idol" concluded. But with his style, attitude, and laid back demeanor, clearly there are few Idol finalists like Jason Castro.
“I met her once, and I know she thought I was like, trying to get off the show, which wasn’t true,” said Castro on Thursday, during a phone interview on The Ralphie Radio Show. “She was like thinking, ‘You didn’t wanna be there, did you?’ and I’m like, ‘Ohhhh, I dunno!’”
But the days of "American Idol" and what he mouthed and what he didn’t are long past Castro. Now the Dallas, Texas native is set to embark on a new career. Castro is promoting his new single, “Let’s Fall In Love Again” – a catchy, folkie, Jason Mraz-type number that makes you want to bob your head from side to side, and then maybe find that ex-lover on Facebook. The song is off of Castro’s debut LP, which he confirmed on The RRS is self-titled. It’s due out November 17.
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Part 1: Dreads, Album, Ellen
Part 2: "Let's Fall In Love Again" (Whistling Included)
---
“Keepin’ it simple,” said Castro of the decision to throw his name on the album’s title. “This is Jason Castro, this is my introduction to the world.”
Perhaps “reintroduction” would have been more appropriate – but you can’t blame Castro for feeling as if he’s starting fresh. Few that have walked his path received the opportunity to write and record for a major label after "Idol" concluded. But with his style, attitude, and laid back demeanor, clearly there are few Idol finalists like Jason Castro.
9.24.2009
HIGH SCHOOL HOOKUP 2.0 STARRING WE THE KINGS!
• TEXT “KINGS” TO 6-2-5-8-2 FOR THE CHANCE TO HAVE WE THE KINGS PLAY IN YOUR HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM OR AUDITORIUM ON
TUESDAY, 10/13/09
• TEXT AS MANY TIMES AS YOU WANT FOR A BETTER CHANCE TO WIN
• STANDARD TEXT MESSAGING RATES APPLY
• LISTEN TO THE RALPHIE RADIO SHOW WEEKNIGHTS AFTER SONG #4 ON THE TOP 8 @ TO FIND OUT THAT DAY’S TOP 4 HIGH SCHOOLS WITH THE MOST TEXTS. RALPHIE ANNOUNCES THE WINNING SCHOOL ON 10/9/09.
• POWERED BY S-CURVE RECORDS AND 97 BHT
JASON CASTRO INSIDE THE MALL AT STEAMTOWN!
• 97 BHT PRESENTS JASON CASTRO FROM AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 7 ON TUESDAY, 10/6/09 AT 6:00PM LIVE ON STAGE AT CENTER COURT AT THE MALL AT STEAMTOWN
• LISTEN TO 97 BHT FOR ALL ACCESS AND YOUR CHANCE TO HANG OUT WITH JASON CASTRO
• POWERED BY ATLANTIC RECORDS AND 97 BHT
WINGMAN WEDNESDAY: Advising A Cougar
Download the mp3 
Visit The Wingman on MySpace or Facebook.
The Wingman gives the green light to a cougar who wants to hook up with her son's best friend - he just insists that she keeps it on the DL.
Visit The Wingman on MySpace or Facebook.
9.23.2009
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: Chris Brown's Community Service
Download the mp3 
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
Chris Brown is going about serving his community service in a peculiar manner... TMZ's Leslie Harris elaborated.
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
EXCLUSIVE: All Time Low's Alex Gaskarth Talks Tours, Twitter, The VMA's
By even his own account, he stretched the truth, but that didn’t stop All Time Low’s Alex Gaskarth from describing the band’s upcoming fall tour as a “spectacle on wheels.”
“A little bit like Cirque du Soleil, minus leotards, plus alcohol and tattoos,” described Gaskarth of The Glamour Kills Tour. “And still maybe a few backflips, I dunno.”
The lead singer eventually toned down the hyperbole, but point taken – the upcoming trek, which includes supporting acts We The Kings, Hey Monday, and The Friday Night Boys - will be a sight to behold. The tour is comprised of 41 dates, kicking off in Hartford, CT, moving west, and the ending back east in Philadelphia.
Not too shabby for a band that just a mere two years ago, played the Smartpunk Stage at Vans Warped Tour. Since that time, All Time Low has opened for Fall Out Boy, toured Europe, and landed a sweet record deal that affords them a healthy amount of radio promotion. The band itself built up quite a following in the process. You know you’re big when someone starts a Twitter account on behalf of… your hair.
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Download the mp3
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“I’ve been made aware of it. It’s not anyone that I know,” revealed Gaskarth of the Twitter account, whose username is conveniently enough, “gaskarthsHair.” “Yunno, more power to ‘em. If they want to speak on behalf of my hair, they’re entitled to.”
Among the other perks of the fame: invites to award shows. Alex and crew were at the MTV VMA’s, and the front man thought Lady GaGa’s performance was “phenomenal.”
“They did a good job of sort of adapting that already-strange video in to an even stranger and harder to understand stage performance,” said Gaskarth. But she has the most phenomenal live voice. I give that girl props.”
Not so phenomenal: the antics of a one KanYe West. Alex likened his first reaction to that of everyone else’s inside Radio City Music Hall.
“Everyone gasped, everyone rolled their eyes, everybody sighed, and everybody forgot about it.”
But unfortunately for West, Alex is incorrect on one point – as no one has forgotten it.
“A little bit like Cirque du Soleil, minus leotards, plus alcohol and tattoos,” described Gaskarth of The Glamour Kills Tour. “And still maybe a few backflips, I dunno.”
The lead singer eventually toned down the hyperbole, but point taken – the upcoming trek, which includes supporting acts We The Kings, Hey Monday, and The Friday Night Boys - will be a sight to behold. The tour is comprised of 41 dates, kicking off in Hartford, CT, moving west, and the ending back east in Philadelphia.
Not too shabby for a band that just a mere two years ago, played the Smartpunk Stage at Vans Warped Tour. Since that time, All Time Low has opened for Fall Out Boy, toured Europe, and landed a sweet record deal that affords them a healthy amount of radio promotion. The band itself built up quite a following in the process. You know you’re big when someone starts a Twitter account on behalf of… your hair.
---
Download the mp3
---
“I’ve been made aware of it. It’s not anyone that I know,” revealed Gaskarth of the Twitter account, whose username is conveniently enough, “gaskarthsHair.” “Yunno, more power to ‘em. If they want to speak on behalf of my hair, they’re entitled to.”
Among the other perks of the fame: invites to award shows. Alex and crew were at the MTV VMA’s, and the front man thought Lady GaGa’s performance was “phenomenal.”
“They did a good job of sort of adapting that already-strange video in to an even stranger and harder to understand stage performance,” said Gaskarth. But she has the most phenomenal live voice. I give that girl props.”
Not so phenomenal: the antics of a one KanYe West. Alex likened his first reaction to that of everyone else’s inside Radio City Music Hall.
“Everyone gasped, everyone rolled their eyes, everybody sighed, and everybody forgot about it.”
But unfortunately for West, Alex is incorrect on one point – as no one has forgotten it.
9.18.2009
VIDEO: Obama Calls KanYe a Jackass
I will admit, this is not a good look for the media, when we have reporters for major, national outlets leaking off the record quotes from our President via Twitter, audio, and now video.
Refreshingly honest and on-point, nonetheless.
EXCLUSIVE: Ester Dean Stays True To Herself, Keeps In Touch With Chris Brown
Without hesitation, Ester Dean revealed on The Ralphie Radio Show that she never hesitated to include Chris Brown on the remix or in the video of her track, “Drop It Low.”
“I love him. That’s like my brother,” described Dean of her relationship to the R&B crooner. “It didn’t matter. He killed it.”
The singer referred to Brown’s inclusion in the project and his performance in the video. But as close as the two are, Dean insists that she’s doesn’t inquiry in to Brown’s personal matters.
---
Download the mp3
Singer/Songwriter Ester Dean talked Chris Brown, "Drop It Low", and self-image on The Ralphie Radio Show.
“I love him. That’s like my brother,” described Dean of her relationship to the R&B crooner. “It didn’t matter. He killed it.”
The singer referred to Brown’s inclusion in the project and his performance in the video. But as close as the two are, Dean insists that she’s doesn’t inquiry in to Brown’s personal matters.
---
Download the mp3
Singer/Songwriter Ester Dean talked Chris Brown, "Drop It Low", and self-image on The Ralphie Radio Show.
---
“I don’t dig in to all of that,” said Dean. “I let him do what he does. I’m here on a different side for him.”
Brown recently began serving out his sentence of hard labor and community service after pleading guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Rihanna, last February. Dean – an accomplished song writer who penned tracks for Keri Hilson, Mary J. Blige, and The Pussycat Dolls – is signed to a deal with producer Polow Da Don’s Zone 4. “Drop It Low” is included on the soundtrack to a new documentary that features LeBron James.
9.17.2009
President Obama/KanYe Multimedia
You could easily kill 20 minutes on this one. Enjoy.
Here is audio of Mr. President calling West a "jackass" before a CNBC interview - courtesy of TMZ.
Here is audio of Mr. President calling West a "jackass" before a CNBC interview - courtesy of TMZ.
JASON DERULO INSIDE THE WOODLANDS!
97 BHT Presents Warner Bros. Recording Artist Jason Derulo, featuring his hit song, "Whatcha Say", live inside Club HD at The Woodlands, Plains - Rte. 315 - on Thursday, October 1!
Plus, listen to 97 BHT to win Meet & Greet Passes! Powered by The Woodlands, Warner Bros. Records, & The Only Radio Station in NEPA Playing "Whatcha Say" - 97 BHT!
EXCLUSIVE: I-Yaz Checks In After The VMA'S
The up-and-coming singer chats about living with Sean Kingston, working with J.R. Rotem, and attending the VMAs in NYC, after the jump.
Part 1: The VMA's, "Replay"
Part 2: New LP, Tour
Part 1: The VMA's, "Replay"
Part 2: New LP, Tour
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: Ellen Replaces Paula On Idol
Download the mp3
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
TMZ's Leslie Harris checks in with the latest on Ellen's 5-year deal to join the judges on American Idol.
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
EXCLUSIVE: Hey Monday In Studio!
Hey Monday stopped by The RRS to chat and perform a couple of tracks acoustically, including the group's new single, "How You Love Me Now" - off of the LP - Hold On Tight.
Part 1: Cassadee's "Tree" Story, Hey Monday's VMA Plans
Part 2: The Wingman joins Hey Monday on-air
Part 1: Cassadee's "Tree" Story, Hey Monday's VMA Plans
Part 2: The Wingman joins Hey Monday on-air
9.11.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Adam Lambert Has Elton John's Number, Talks New LP
When you’re the runner-up on a show as popular as American Idol, surely you’ll accumulate a few new contacts in your phone.
“Hmm… the most famous contact in my phone?” Adam Lambert pondered before answering, “Elton John.”
That immediately begs the question: Do Adam and Sir Elton talk or text?
“Um… he’s just the most famous contact in my phone right now,” Lambert replied. “’Nuff said.”
It’s almost anti-Adam that he didn’t follow through on specifics of his relationship to Elton. Lambert admits that he’s been very open and honest since AI ceased – first revealing (or maybe in some cases confirming) his sexual orientation to Rolling Stone, then directly confronting the public release of material he recorded well before his run on Idol.
“My mom was funny, because she was like, ‘I wouldn’t have gone in to detail about this, this, and this,’” Lambert said of his mother’s reaction to the RS cover story. “Why not just address everything right off the bat, before my career really starts, and kinda be an open book?”
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Download the mp3
“I don’t know who Kevin is. That was actually a surprise to me, when I read that on MTV,” said Lambert. “We haven’t talked to him at all. He hasn’t written anything… we don’t have any of his songs.”
Despite this, Griffin’s appraisal of Lambert’s November 24 debut may not be far off.
“Yunno, I’ll give him credit. I don’t know how he can write a song, but he certainly can give good quotes,” Lambert joked. “I wasn’t hating on him for it, I had just never heard of him before.”
Lambert himself described the LP as an audio version of playing dress-up. After the Idol tour wraps up, he’ll focus on picking around 12 songs from a list of 20. Also on the docket is a photo shoot for the album – as well as a title – which Lambert says won’t be picked until the track listing is set.
Confirmed by Lambert as a collaborator on the LP is Lady GaGa’s producer, RedOne. The Idol runner-up reached out to GaGa herself – but due to scheduling conflicts they were not able to team up.
“Hmm… the most famous contact in my phone?” Adam Lambert pondered before answering, “Elton John.”
That immediately begs the question: Do Adam and Sir Elton talk or text?
“Um… he’s just the most famous contact in my phone right now,” Lambert replied. “’Nuff said.”
It’s almost anti-Adam that he didn’t follow through on specifics of his relationship to Elton. Lambert admits that he’s been very open and honest since AI ceased – first revealing (or maybe in some cases confirming) his sexual orientation to Rolling Stone, then directly confronting the public release of material he recorded well before his run on Idol.
“My mom was funny, because she was like, ‘I wouldn’t have gone in to detail about this, this, and this,’” Lambert said of his mother’s reaction to the RS cover story. “Why not just address everything right off the bat, before my career really starts, and kinda be an open book?”
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Download the mp3
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“I don’t know who Kevin is. That was actually a surprise to me, when I read that on MTV,” said Lambert. “We haven’t talked to him at all. He hasn’t written anything… we don’t have any of his songs.”
Despite this, Griffin’s appraisal of Lambert’s November 24 debut may not be far off.
“Yunno, I’ll give him credit. I don’t know how he can write a song, but he certainly can give good quotes,” Lambert joked. “I wasn’t hating on him for it, I had just never heard of him before.”
Lambert himself described the LP as an audio version of playing dress-up. After the Idol tour wraps up, he’ll focus on picking around 12 songs from a list of 20. Also on the docket is a photo shoot for the album – as well as a title – which Lambert says won’t be picked until the track listing is set.
Confirmed by Lambert as a collaborator on the LP is Lady GaGa’s producer, RedOne. The Idol runner-up reached out to GaGa herself – but due to scheduling conflicts they were not able to team up.
9.09.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Theory Of A Deadman Scratched Fall Tour To Support Daughtry
Theory of a Deadman admits that by the year’s end, they will have catered to both ends of the spectrum of their audience: with a summer spent on Crue Fest and a fall tour planned with Daughtry. But none of the British Columbia rockers believe that either group will feel alienated.
“We were really thinking about doing a headlining tour,” TOADM front man Tyler Connolly revealed. “I think we were kinda thought to ourselves, ‘Well, where are we in this record cycle and our career? Maybe we should be out there in front of a lot of people, maybe people that don’t know Theory of a Deadman yet.’”
Connolly and his band are no strangers to Daughtry – as Chris himself lent vocals to TOADM’s “By The Way”, off of Theory’s third LP, Scars & Souvenirs.
“That’ll be cool to play that song live too,” said the lead singer. “From a business point of view, it’s going to be such a great tour for us.”
---
Part 1: Canadian Beer (Drake Comments), Touring w/ Tommy Lee
Part 2: Vocal Warmups, Touring w/ Daughtry
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Theory’s perspective is simultaneously honest and refreshing. While many bands struggle to find an identity in between their rock and mainstream audiences, TOADM seems to have successfully done so. Yet the band doesn’t take itself too seriously – Connolly along with bassist Dean Beck and guitarist Dave Brenner joked about partying naked with Motley Crue, banging groupies, and their choice of Canadian beer.
The ribbing didn’t lie exclusively within the room, as a lot of light-hearted comments were directed toward fellow Canadian Aubrey “Drake” Graham. When asked on The Ralphie Radio Show if he was a Labatt or Molson guy, Drake responded with Dom Perignon Rosé.
“What?! What is he talking about?” asked Connolly, as all three guys laughed while chatting about their favorite microbreweries in British Columbia.
“We were really thinking about doing a headlining tour,” TOADM front man Tyler Connolly revealed. “I think we were kinda thought to ourselves, ‘Well, where are we in this record cycle and our career? Maybe we should be out there in front of a lot of people, maybe people that don’t know Theory of a Deadman yet.’”
Connolly and his band are no strangers to Daughtry – as Chris himself lent vocals to TOADM’s “By The Way”, off of Theory’s third LP, Scars & Souvenirs.
“That’ll be cool to play that song live too,” said the lead singer. “From a business point of view, it’s going to be such a great tour for us.”
---
Part 1: Canadian Beer (Drake Comments), Touring w/ Tommy Lee
Part 2: Vocal Warmups, Touring w/ Daughtry
---
Theory’s perspective is simultaneously honest and refreshing. While many bands struggle to find an identity in between their rock and mainstream audiences, TOADM seems to have successfully done so. Yet the band doesn’t take itself too seriously – Connolly along with bassist Dean Beck and guitarist Dave Brenner joked about partying naked with Motley Crue, banging groupies, and their choice of Canadian beer.
The ribbing didn’t lie exclusively within the room, as a lot of light-hearted comments were directed toward fellow Canadian Aubrey “Drake” Graham. When asked on The Ralphie Radio Show if he was a Labatt or Molson guy, Drake responded with Dom Perignon Rosé.
“What?! What is he talking about?” asked Connolly, as all three guys laughed while chatting about their favorite microbreweries in British Columbia.
9.07.2009
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: Oprah/Chris Brown Feud
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Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
After Chris Brown voiced his displeasure with the actions of Oprah, the talk show host released a statement to TMZ.
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
WINGMAN WEDNESDAY: The Relative Homewrecker
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Visit The Wingman on Facebook and MySpace.
The Wingman gives the green light for a man to move in on the sister of a relative.
Visit The Wingman on Facebook and MySpace.
9.02.2009
T.J. MCCORMACK: MTV acted irresponsible with DJ AM show
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Watch the interview below:
Actor/Comedian T.J. McCormack is a recovering alcoholic who had many mutual friends in rehab with Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein. He reacts to MTV's last interview with DJ AM. In the clip, which is provided in the interview, the celebrity disc jockey talks about buying a crack pipe for a scene in a show he taped for the network.
Watch the interview below:
EXCLUSIVE: Pitbull Likes Ellen, Defends "Egg Whites"
The label flopped, the officer lied, and the video went viral. It could have been the worst two years ever for Armando Perez, known to the masses as the emcee, “Pitbull.” Instead – it yielded Pit’s greatest success to date, and much to show for it.
“It’s been a roller coaster ride,” said Pitbull, who called in to The Ralphie Radio Show from his hometown of Miami. The city rewarded “Mr. 305” for his charity work by giving him the key to the city. This came right before Pitbull released his major-label debut LP, Rebelution, which includes the back-to-back top 10 hits “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” and “Hotel Room Service.”
“Definitely an honor and a blessing,” Pit commented of the award from Miami. “Bein’ able to come from we’ve come from, whether it be negativity, poverty, or nothing and make something…” he continued, before a right turn on to a lighter note. “The thing was, then I took it to the pawn shop, and it wasn’t really worth much, and I was like, ‘Damn!’”
When you look back at Pitbull’s last 18 months – his sense of humor is something to marvel at. The dominos began to fall in December of 2007 – when police charged Pitbull with driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding. The following February, TVT Records filed for bankruptcy. Pit remises of the label’s workers fondly, but calls TVT President Steve Gotlieb, “illogical.” Then fast forward to May 2009, when Pitbull punched a fan on stage. The Miami-emcee still feels guilty over the incident. However, Pit felt the need to defend himself.
“I brought (the fan) on stage to get rid of him, ‘cause he was making it rain (the act of tossing money in to the air) all night,” Pitbull recalled, adding that anything that goes up in the air becomes a distraction while performing. “As soon as I bring him on stage, he throws money in my face, so to every action there’s a reaction.”
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Part 1: Receiving The Key To Miami, Ellen
Part 2: Rollercoaster of a Year, Egg Whites Edit in "Hotel Room Service."
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But by the midway point of 2009, Pitbull’s misfortunes were beginning to turn around. June saw Pitbull ink a deal with Sony Music that allowed him to create his own record label, Mr. 305 Inc. In July, a Miami jury acquitted Pit of the DUI charges after authorities convicted an officer of perjury. Then August brought Pitbull not one, but two Top 10 singles from Rebelution. Pitbull says he moved up the date from September 1 to coincide with his performance on The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien. Pit will also be appearing on Ellen. The rapper is quite fond of the talk show host, even if it doesn’t seem to exactly translate that way.
“I really like Ellen,” Pitbull admitted. “To me, she’s someone that’s genuine, someone that’s natural, and someone that does what she loves. She don’t got no hair on her tongue… well… let me stop that.” Pit intended to use an old Spanish expression to imply that she says what she wants, but he admits it didn’t translate as well as he planned.
“Down here in Miami, you know anyone tell you, ‘Yo, how’s everything?’ You say, ‘Nah, I’m straight.’ I be like, ‘Yeah, I’m straight,’ (Ellen) might be like, ‘Ehhhh I’m not,’” Pitbull joked.
The conversation did not get any more serious when asked about the latest “Super Clean” edit of “Hotel Room Service”: the last part of the rhyme, “Oh you’re the healthy type? Well, here goes some egg whites,” changes to “Then I’m gonna give you just what you like.”
“There’s nothing wrong with that,” Pitbull said, attempting to naively defend his double entendre off the breakfast food with a certain human excretion. “If you go to have breakfast at a diner, and you ask for egg whites, is that a problem?”
Of course, the answer is no, but I quickly reminded Pit that we know he’s not talking about ordering from the food menu in “Hotel Room Service.”
“It’s real talk man, it’s just some people got dirty minds,” Pit continued, before finally letting down his front with a laugh. And after the peaks and valleys the rapper faced to get to this point – you really can’t blame Pitbull for finding a little more humor in the situation.
“It’s been a roller coaster ride,” said Pitbull, who called in to The Ralphie Radio Show from his hometown of Miami. The city rewarded “Mr. 305” for his charity work by giving him the key to the city. This came right before Pitbull released his major-label debut LP, Rebelution, which includes the back-to-back top 10 hits “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” and “Hotel Room Service.”
“Definitely an honor and a blessing,” Pit commented of the award from Miami. “Bein’ able to come from we’ve come from, whether it be negativity, poverty, or nothing and make something…” he continued, before a right turn on to a lighter note. “The thing was, then I took it to the pawn shop, and it wasn’t really worth much, and I was like, ‘Damn!’”
When you look back at Pitbull’s last 18 months – his sense of humor is something to marvel at. The dominos began to fall in December of 2007 – when police charged Pitbull with driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding. The following February, TVT Records filed for bankruptcy. Pit remises of the label’s workers fondly, but calls TVT President Steve Gotlieb, “illogical.” Then fast forward to May 2009, when Pitbull punched a fan on stage. The Miami-emcee still feels guilty over the incident. However, Pit felt the need to defend himself.
“I brought (the fan) on stage to get rid of him, ‘cause he was making it rain (the act of tossing money in to the air) all night,” Pitbull recalled, adding that anything that goes up in the air becomes a distraction while performing. “As soon as I bring him on stage, he throws money in my face, so to every action there’s a reaction.”
---
Part 1: Receiving The Key To Miami, Ellen
Part 2: Rollercoaster of a Year, Egg Whites Edit in "Hotel Room Service."
---
But by the midway point of 2009, Pitbull’s misfortunes were beginning to turn around. June saw Pitbull ink a deal with Sony Music that allowed him to create his own record label, Mr. 305 Inc. In July, a Miami jury acquitted Pit of the DUI charges after authorities convicted an officer of perjury. Then August brought Pitbull not one, but two Top 10 singles from Rebelution. Pitbull says he moved up the date from September 1 to coincide with his performance on The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien. Pit will also be appearing on Ellen. The rapper is quite fond of the talk show host, even if it doesn’t seem to exactly translate that way.
“I really like Ellen,” Pitbull admitted. “To me, she’s someone that’s genuine, someone that’s natural, and someone that does what she loves. She don’t got no hair on her tongue… well… let me stop that.” Pit intended to use an old Spanish expression to imply that she says what she wants, but he admits it didn’t translate as well as he planned.
“Down here in Miami, you know anyone tell you, ‘Yo, how’s everything?’ You say, ‘Nah, I’m straight.’ I be like, ‘Yeah, I’m straight,’ (Ellen) might be like, ‘Ehhhh I’m not,’” Pitbull joked.
The conversation did not get any more serious when asked about the latest “Super Clean” edit of “Hotel Room Service”: the last part of the rhyme, “Oh you’re the healthy type? Well, here goes some egg whites,” changes to “Then I’m gonna give you just what you like.”
“There’s nothing wrong with that,” Pitbull said, attempting to naively defend his double entendre off the breakfast food with a certain human excretion. “If you go to have breakfast at a diner, and you ask for egg whites, is that a problem?”
Of course, the answer is no, but I quickly reminded Pit that we know he’s not talking about ordering from the food menu in “Hotel Room Service.”
“It’s real talk man, it’s just some people got dirty minds,” Pit continued, before finally letting down his front with a laugh. And after the peaks and valleys the rapper faced to get to this point – you really can’t blame Pitbull for finding a little more humor in the situation.
8.31.2009
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: John Mayer's Challenge
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Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
After TMZ posted a mugshot of Fall Out Boy front man Patrick Stump, John Mayer stepped to the plate with a challenge of his own...
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
EXCLUSIVE: Priscilla Renea Stops By!
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Priscilla Renea stopped by The Ralphie Radio Show to chat for a second and perform her song, "Dollhouse" acoustically.
8.29.2009
WINGMAN WEDNESDAY: The Direct Approach
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Check Out The Wingman on MySpace or Facebook.
The Wingman prefers direct and blunt over indirect, but advises that in some instances, you have to tread carefully.
Check Out The Wingman on MySpace or Facebook.
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: Lohan's House Burglarized... Again.
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Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
Lindsay Lohan's house is burglarized for the second time in three months. TMZ's Leslie Harris explains why Michael Lohan thinks it's an inside job.
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
8.26.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Jay Sean All-But-Confirms Drake Collab, Stops Short Of Naming It Second Single
In an interview which aired Wednesday on The Ralphie Radio Show, English singer Jay Sean all-but-confirmed a forthcoming song with rapper Drake. But, the Cash Money crooner admits that the next single off of All or Nothing is not determined.
Jay Sean mentioned in past interviews that he would not speak about the track with Drizzy before the details were finalized. However, his response Wednesday hinted that the feature could be a done deal.
“Well, actually, I still have to stay tight-lipped about it,” Jay remarked. “(Laughing) I can’t say nuttin!”
After pressing about his choice of words, particularly interjecting the word “still” in to his response, the “Down” singer elaborated.
“Yesterday I went in to the studio and I did this song,” Jay Sean revealed. “To be honest, I just sent it straight away to the boss man (presumably Cash Money’s Ronald “Slim” Williams). I was like, ‘Dude, I think I might have just messed up our plan here.’”
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Download the mp3 Jay Sean also reveals during the interview his inital thoughts when he first heard Lil Wayne's verse on "Down"...
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The aforementioned arrangement may have been to release the track with Drake as the next single. That idea might be in flux after Jay’s studio session. The Englishman notes that he actually entered the studio to write songs for someone else, but that he ended up with a track that he feels strongly about.
“This sounds like a huge single to me,” Jay said of the track he wrote. “So who knows? I think we might have to give Drake a phone call.”
Surely Drake would be able to answer the phone – he’s currently back in Canada after reinjuring a torn ACL while on tour with Lil Wayne.
Jay Sean’s LP, All or Nothing, will drop around Thanksgiving, according to Jay himself. This timeframe is pushed back from an original October target.
Jay Sean mentioned in past interviews that he would not speak about the track with Drizzy before the details were finalized. However, his response Wednesday hinted that the feature could be a done deal.
“Well, actually, I still have to stay tight-lipped about it,” Jay remarked. “(Laughing) I can’t say nuttin!”
After pressing about his choice of words, particularly interjecting the word “still” in to his response, the “Down” singer elaborated.
“Yesterday I went in to the studio and I did this song,” Jay Sean revealed. “To be honest, I just sent it straight away to the boss man (presumably Cash Money’s Ronald “Slim” Williams). I was like, ‘Dude, I think I might have just messed up our plan here.’”
---
Download the mp3 Jay Sean also reveals during the interview his inital thoughts when he first heard Lil Wayne's verse on "Down"...
---
The aforementioned arrangement may have been to release the track with Drake as the next single. That idea might be in flux after Jay’s studio session. The Englishman notes that he actually entered the studio to write songs for someone else, but that he ended up with a track that he feels strongly about.
“This sounds like a huge single to me,” Jay said of the track he wrote. “So who knows? I think we might have to give Drake a phone call.”
Surely Drake would be able to answer the phone – he’s currently back in Canada after reinjuring a torn ACL while on tour with Lil Wayne.
Jay Sean’s LP, All or Nothing, will drop around Thanksgiving, according to Jay himself. This timeframe is pushed back from an original October target.
8.21.2009
DAILY DOWNLOAD: Kaci Battaglia - Crazy Possessive (I'll Muck You Up)
08.19.09 : Kaci Battaglia - Crazy Possessive (I'll Muck You Up)
Kaci swings by The RRS!
Part 1: Story Behind The Song
Part 2: Wikipedia, Twitter, New Album
8.20.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Hey Monday's Cassadee Pope on "How You Love Me Now" & Splurging on Tour
Working with big name songwriters and producers can have both pros and cons. This came to light in the recent feud between Kelly Clarkson and her record label over releasing the track, “Already Gone” to radio stations. Clarkson felt the song sounded too similar to Beyonce’s “Halo.” OneRepublic front man Ryan Tedder wrote and produced both.
Butch Walker is behind many tracks from quite a few big name artists – from Avril Lavigne to Simple Plan, Katy Perry to Pink. Walker’s latest production is the song, “How You Love Me Now.” It’s a single from Hold On Tight, the debut LP of Hey Monday, a pop-rock group fronted by Cassadee Pope. The lead singer insists she wasn’t worried about the final collaboration with Walker sounding too similar to his other pieces of work.
“That’s always a risk,” admitted Pope. “But if you stay true to what your sound is and everything, and if it clicks with that other person, it’s usually just what you want.”
Pope called in to The Ralphie Radio Show on Tuesday to chat about a plethora of topics – including the new single, which Cassadee describes as “prideful.”
“It’s just about getting your heart broken and then that person wanting you back, but they also have someone else on the side,” Pope explained. “And you just kinda tell them that that’s not gonna happen.”
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Hey Monday’s debut LP also spawned the track, “Homecoming” which Pete Wentz featured on his CitizensFOB mix-tape last fall. The pop rockers are signed to Wentz’s Decaydence label. The association with the Fall Out Boy bassist carries many perks – Hey Monday supported Fall Out Boy on the band’s “Believer’s Never Die Tour Part Deux” last spring. Pope and Wentz also cameo together in Degrassi: The Next Generation TV Movie. In case you’re wondering, the lead singer did not meet actor and Young Money emcee Aubrey “Drake” Graham – he does not appear in the film.
Currently Hey Monday is playing a set of acoustic shows at Hot Topic stores across the country. Pope admitted, the idea to shop before or after performing at the malls is tempting.
“I kinda splurged the first few days, but I’m being good now,” said Pope. “I kinda had an episode in Forever 21. I bought a lot of shirts and, I think I bought a skirt too. I packed light for this tour because I knew I’d be shopping.”
This fall, Hey Monday will tour to support We The Kings and All Time Low.
Butch Walker is behind many tracks from quite a few big name artists – from Avril Lavigne to Simple Plan, Katy Perry to Pink. Walker’s latest production is the song, “How You Love Me Now.” It’s a single from Hold On Tight, the debut LP of Hey Monday, a pop-rock group fronted by Cassadee Pope. The lead singer insists she wasn’t worried about the final collaboration with Walker sounding too similar to his other pieces of work.
“That’s always a risk,” admitted Pope. “But if you stay true to what your sound is and everything, and if it clicks with that other person, it’s usually just what you want.”
Pope called in to The Ralphie Radio Show on Tuesday to chat about a plethora of topics – including the new single, which Cassadee describes as “prideful.”
“It’s just about getting your heart broken and then that person wanting you back, but they also have someone else on the side,” Pope explained. “And you just kinda tell them that that’s not gonna happen.”
---
Download the mp3
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Hey Monday’s debut LP also spawned the track, “Homecoming” which Pete Wentz featured on his CitizensFOB mix-tape last fall. The pop rockers are signed to Wentz’s Decaydence label. The association with the Fall Out Boy bassist carries many perks – Hey Monday supported Fall Out Boy on the band’s “Believer’s Never Die Tour Part Deux” last spring. Pope and Wentz also cameo together in Degrassi: The Next Generation TV Movie. In case you’re wondering, the lead singer did not meet actor and Young Money emcee Aubrey “Drake” Graham – he does not appear in the film.
Currently Hey Monday is playing a set of acoustic shows at Hot Topic stores across the country. Pope admitted, the idea to shop before or after performing at the malls is tempting.
“I kinda splurged the first few days, but I’m being good now,” said Pope. “I kinda had an episode in Forever 21. I bought a lot of shirts and, I think I bought a skirt too. I packed light for this tour because I knew I’d be shopping.”
This fall, Hey Monday will tour to support We The Kings and All Time Low.
EXCLUSIVE: We The Kings Set The Trend For Pop-Rockers
You could credit Lil Wayne as the first artist of this era to release music with no short term monetary goal in mind. Sure he caught a lot of grief over his marketing style from Universal Motown, but the scheme worked off: Tha Carter III sold more copies than any other LP in 2008.
Now it seems Weezy’s plan is transcending the hip-hop realm. Take We The Kings for example. According to lead singer Travis Clark, the pop-rock quartet has been writing and recording demos for about a year and a half. Now, with the assistance of S-Curve Records, WTK is headed back to radio with a new single, “Heaven Can Wait.”
Now it seems Weezy’s plan is transcending the hip-hop realm. Take We The Kings for example. According to lead singer Travis Clark, the pop-rock quartet has been writing and recording demos for about a year and a half. Now, with the assistance of S-Curve Records, WTK is headed back to radio with a new single, “Heaven Can Wait.”
Apparently Heaven isn’t the only thing that can wait. The song emerges with not even an iTunes sale date, let alone an album to promote. But, that didn’t stop Clark from calling up The Ralphie Radio Show on Wednesday evening to talk about the track and the thought process behind its release. 97 BHT became the third radio station in the country to play the track.
“I feel like there’s an A.D.D. generation that’s growing tired of music,” Clark said. “I’m part of that A.D.D. generation, where it’s just, we have all of these songs, let’s make a record and let’s do it.”
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Ralphie & WTK in Allentown, Early 2009.
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There’s no timeline to create the sophomore LP in place – but the front man predicts that recording will finish in September.
“This is literally so new that it’s like, we’re pretty much recording the rest of it now,” revealed Clark – who gave his label this track along with other demos the band recorded. Both WTK and the label felt strongly about the single – both the song itself and the direction in which it’d take the band. S-Curve put We The Kings in a studio, mastered the track, and will now promote it to radio stations across the country.
“No one’s ever heard it. It’s crazy,” said Clark. “We’ve been playing it live for, yunno, four or five shows, and then you guys are literally the third station in the entire country to play it.”
“I feel like there’s an A.D.D. generation that’s growing tired of music,” Clark said. “I’m part of that A.D.D. generation, where it’s just, we have all of these songs, let’s make a record and let’s do it.”
---
Download the mp3
Ralphie & WTK in Allentown, Early 2009.
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There’s no timeline to create the sophomore LP in place – but the front man predicts that recording will finish in September.
“This is literally so new that it’s like, we’re pretty much recording the rest of it now,” revealed Clark – who gave his label this track along with other demos the band recorded. Both WTK and the label felt strongly about the single – both the song itself and the direction in which it’d take the band. S-Curve put We The Kings in a studio, mastered the track, and will now promote it to radio stations across the country.
“No one’s ever heard it. It’s crazy,” said Clark. “We’ve been playing it live for, yunno, four or five shows, and then you guys are literally the third station in the entire country to play it.”
The song fits the catchy melodies that WTK fans are familiar with - but the new sound is infused with less strings and more keyboard and electronic effects.
We The Kings will spend September finishing the new record before heading out on a fall trek with All Time Low and Hey Monday.
We The Kings will spend September finishing the new record before heading out on a fall trek with All Time Low and Hey Monday.
8.19.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Mr. Hudson On Jay-Z, Estelle, Sneakers, & Coldstone
It’s been quite the year for England’s Mr. Hudson. Signed to Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music, Hudson is set to debut in the States with Straight No Chaser on October 5. In an interview on The Ralphie Radio Show – West’s protégé confirmed that he’s on at least one track off of Jay-Z’s Blueprint 3, and that he is also working with Estelle on her next LP.
“We did a little duet together, hopefully for her album,” says Hudson of his studio session with Estelle – who is also from England. Hudson called Estelle “an inspiration.”
It’s just another project that Hudson finds himself involved with, thanks to West. First – 808’s and Heartbreaks – where Hudson sang background vocals on a couple tracks and lent a more prominent role to the song, “Paranoid.” Next up: Jay-Z’s Blueprint 3 – where it was originally rumored that Hudson could be featured on a couple of cuts.
“I got a funny feeling it might just be Forever Young,” revealed Hudson of his contributions to the final product – which is due out September 11. “Just to be anywhere near that project is an honor. (Jay-Z)’s the man.”
Hudson took a backseat, observing and participating when asked on ‘Ye’s and Jay’s respective albums – while also watching other projects within the G.O.O.D. Music family unfold. Now, it’s his turn. Kanye actually presented the first single, “Supernova” – to Hudson as a gift, literally.
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Part 1: His New Life Thanks To KanYe, Sneaker Collection, Coldstone Creamery
Part 2: "Supernova", Straight No Chaser, Blueprint 3, Working with Estelle.
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“He comes in… and says, ‘Yo Hudson I got a present for you,’” the English vocalist recalled. Immediately, Hudson thought the gift could be “embarrassingly generous” – as according to the singer, Kanye gave both his barber and manager cars. But there was no big “Oprah-type” moment, as West simply turned to the engineer in the studio and said, “Press play.” ‘Ye’s trademark big drums came blaring over the speakers, and West sang what would become the chorus on “Supernova” – in what Hudson describes as a, “slow and lower, more like at 808’s and Heartbreaks approach.” Hudson cranked up the volume on it and the final product came together.
“So I didn’t get a ‘Jesus Piece,’” he remarked. “I think I got something better.”
People overseas might agree – as the song peaked at numbers 2 and 3 on the UK and Irish Charts respectively. The success in Hudson’s homeland clearly means something: he didn’t need a cue to bring up the chart position during the interview. However I wondered if the London singer minded that Kanye threw his best English accent on the track.
“He’d been in London for weeks… and he had a couple drinks, so I think it just came out,” said Hudson. “I think it’s like ‘When in Rome,’ yunno?”
Mr. Hudson shared that the vernacular impact goes both ways – he added “I’ma” to his vocab – using the example of “I’ma get me a Coldstone.”
The ice cream parlor is one of many things that West turned Hudson on to. Another is fashion, particularly sneakers.
“It went from one pair to two or three. But I’m still learning,” admitted Hudson. “An Englishman has like, maybe one or two pairs of trainers.”
Of course, considering the teacher, it’s no surprised that the student owns a pair of “Yeezy’s.”
“I’m too scared to take them out the box,” said Hudson. “Maybe I’ll just wear them around the house.”
“We did a little duet together, hopefully for her album,” says Hudson of his studio session with Estelle – who is also from England. Hudson called Estelle “an inspiration.”
It’s just another project that Hudson finds himself involved with, thanks to West. First – 808’s and Heartbreaks – where Hudson sang background vocals on a couple tracks and lent a more prominent role to the song, “Paranoid.” Next up: Jay-Z’s Blueprint 3 – where it was originally rumored that Hudson could be featured on a couple of cuts.
“I got a funny feeling it might just be Forever Young,” revealed Hudson of his contributions to the final product – which is due out September 11. “Just to be anywhere near that project is an honor. (Jay-Z)’s the man.”
Hudson took a backseat, observing and participating when asked on ‘Ye’s and Jay’s respective albums – while also watching other projects within the G.O.O.D. Music family unfold. Now, it’s his turn. Kanye actually presented the first single, “Supernova” – to Hudson as a gift, literally.
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Part 1: His New Life Thanks To KanYe, Sneaker Collection, Coldstone Creamery
Part 2: "Supernova", Straight No Chaser, Blueprint 3, Working with Estelle.
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“He comes in… and says, ‘Yo Hudson I got a present for you,’” the English vocalist recalled. Immediately, Hudson thought the gift could be “embarrassingly generous” – as according to the singer, Kanye gave both his barber and manager cars. But there was no big “Oprah-type” moment, as West simply turned to the engineer in the studio and said, “Press play.” ‘Ye’s trademark big drums came blaring over the speakers, and West sang what would become the chorus on “Supernova” – in what Hudson describes as a, “slow and lower, more like at 808’s and Heartbreaks approach.” Hudson cranked up the volume on it and the final product came together.
“So I didn’t get a ‘Jesus Piece,’” he remarked. “I think I got something better.”
People overseas might agree – as the song peaked at numbers 2 and 3 on the UK and Irish Charts respectively. The success in Hudson’s homeland clearly means something: he didn’t need a cue to bring up the chart position during the interview. However I wondered if the London singer minded that Kanye threw his best English accent on the track.
“He’d been in London for weeks… and he had a couple drinks, so I think it just came out,” said Hudson. “I think it’s like ‘When in Rome,’ yunno?”
Mr. Hudson shared that the vernacular impact goes both ways – he added “I’ma” to his vocab – using the example of “I’ma get me a Coldstone.”
The ice cream parlor is one of many things that West turned Hudson on to. Another is fashion, particularly sneakers.
“It went from one pair to two or three. But I’m still learning,” admitted Hudson. “An Englishman has like, maybe one or two pairs of trainers.”
Of course, considering the teacher, it’s no surprised that the student owns a pair of “Yeezy’s.”
“I’m too scared to take them out the box,” said Hudson. “Maybe I’ll just wear them around the house.”
8.18.2009
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: The Unreleased Billy Mays Infomercial
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Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
TMZ exclusively obtained this never-before-seen infomercial hosted by the late Billy Mays.
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
EXCLUSIVE: Jason Derulo Talks "Whatcha Say", Lil Wayne
His song, "Whatcha Say" is blowing up across the country. 19 year-old Jason Derulo calls The Ralphie Radio Show to chat about the track, sampling Imogen Heap, writing for Lil Wayne, and how he knows our buddy A.J. In The Afternoon.
Part 1: "Whatcha Say", Imogen Heap's Reaction
Part 2: Writing for Lil Wayne; A.J. In The Afternoon
Part 1: "Whatcha Say", Imogen Heap's Reaction
Part 2: Writing for Lil Wayne; A.J. In The Afternoon
8.17.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Livvi Franc Represents The New B-tch
Livvi Franc wants to make one thing clear: she is not your average bitch.
“I’m definitely reclaiming the word,” says Franc, who called The Ralphie Radio Show on Thursday from New York City. “I have an acronym for it, ‘Babe In Total Control of Herself.’”
The English-born and Barbados-raised singer/songwriter is at the forefront of the discussion regarding the term’s definition with her track, “Now I’m That Bitch.” The song, which features Pitbull, is gaining airplay on radio stations across the country.
---Download the mp3
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“To me a bitch is a female who is in control, confident, and knows what she wants. So it’s something good.
But what makes the song even better is the Pitbull cameo. Franc released the single to clubs last December. The Miami-emcee simply heard the track and hopped on it. The two hadn’t even met until last month, when they shot the music video together.
Franc’s debut LP, Underground Sunshine, hits stores on October 6. She tells me that Pitbull is the only cameo on the album.
EXCLUSIVE: David Guetta Prepares 3rd Single, Takes Cues From BEP, Akon
David Guetta may not be releasing One Love in the States until August 25, but that doesn’t mean the French DJ/Producer isn’t already thinking of future singles and possible re-releases of the LP.
“Okay, I give you exclusive,” Guetta said at the end of our interview last week. He called in to The Ralphie Radio Show from a French hotel. Towards the latter part of the conversation, Guetta revealed the existence of a track that will be the third single off of One Love. The song is “Gettin’ Over” – and the original features Chris Willis. The remix, to come later with a holiday re-release of the LP, will also include Fergie and Will.I.Am. of The Black Eyed Peas.
“The Peas were like, ‘Oh, you gotta give (‘Gettin’ Over’) to us.’ I’m like, ‘No, I need that one for my album,’” Guetta explained. “I saw Will again, and he was like, ‘Man this song is too good.’ So it’s Fergie, Chris Willis, and Will.I.Am., and this song is a bomb man!”
It wouldn’t be the first “bomb” created by Guetta and BEP – the man behind, “Love Is Gone” produced The Peas global smash, “I Gotta Feeling.”
“(BEP and I) first made two songs for The Black Eyed Peas album,” said Guetta, who also claims production credits on the track, “Rock That Body” from The E.N.D. “We had so much that we just kept making music even though the album was finished. I’m still making music with Will for nothing, just for fun.”
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Part 1: "I Gotta Feeling", Working w/ The Black Eyed Peas
Part 2: "Sexy Chick" f. Akon, One Love, Exclusive News Re: New BEP Track
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Guetta parlayed his relationships with BEP and Kelly Rowland (vocals on “When Love Takes Over”) in to more cameos from American A-listers on his forthcoming LP. The Peas and Rowland told their friends about the producer, and then artists like Akon, Ne-Yo, and Kid Cudi approached Guetta for tracks. The Frenchman would always respond with a “yes”, on the condition that they appeared on his album as well. The result is a star-studded cast for One Love. Akon is featured on the LP’s second single, “Sexy B*tch.”
“What happened with Akon was not planned,” revealed Guetta. “We just met at a festival, and decided to make music on that night.”
Both were leaving from the show for their respective home countries in the morning. Guetta says that instead of going out to have a drink, they entered the studio, and left with a song that is already taking the global charts by storm. The record will also appear on Akon’s forthcoming album.
Much has come as a delightful surprise to Guetta during this summer-long run of chart-topping hits, but what didn’t was the changing of “Sexy B*tch” in the U.S. and U.K. to “Sexy Chick.” He even learned something thanks to Akon in the process.
“We had a discussion with the record company… and in the U.K., (bitch) is the most offensive word,” said Guetta. “Whereas in America… that’s what I’ve been told by Akon, like, a girl that takes care of herself and knows what she wants.”
Regardless, it’s what the people want: the song already reached the Top 10 in nine different countries, and is on the cusp of Top 20 in the U.S. Maybe taking language cues from Akon isn’t so bad afterall.
“Okay, I give you exclusive,” Guetta said at the end of our interview last week. He called in to The Ralphie Radio Show from a French hotel. Towards the latter part of the conversation, Guetta revealed the existence of a track that will be the third single off of One Love. The song is “Gettin’ Over” – and the original features Chris Willis. The remix, to come later with a holiday re-release of the LP, will also include Fergie and Will.I.Am. of The Black Eyed Peas.
“The Peas were like, ‘Oh, you gotta give (‘Gettin’ Over’) to us.’ I’m like, ‘No, I need that one for my album,’” Guetta explained. “I saw Will again, and he was like, ‘Man this song is too good.’ So it’s Fergie, Chris Willis, and Will.I.Am., and this song is a bomb man!”
It wouldn’t be the first “bomb” created by Guetta and BEP – the man behind, “Love Is Gone” produced The Peas global smash, “I Gotta Feeling.”
“(BEP and I) first made two songs for The Black Eyed Peas album,” said Guetta, who also claims production credits on the track, “Rock That Body” from The E.N.D. “We had so much that we just kept making music even though the album was finished. I’m still making music with Will for nothing, just for fun.”
---
Part 1: "I Gotta Feeling", Working w/ The Black Eyed Peas
Part 2: "Sexy Chick" f. Akon, One Love, Exclusive News Re: New BEP Track
---
Guetta parlayed his relationships with BEP and Kelly Rowland (vocals on “When Love Takes Over”) in to more cameos from American A-listers on his forthcoming LP. The Peas and Rowland told their friends about the producer, and then artists like Akon, Ne-Yo, and Kid Cudi approached Guetta for tracks. The Frenchman would always respond with a “yes”, on the condition that they appeared on his album as well. The result is a star-studded cast for One Love. Akon is featured on the LP’s second single, “Sexy B*tch.”
“What happened with Akon was not planned,” revealed Guetta. “We just met at a festival, and decided to make music on that night.”
Both were leaving from the show for their respective home countries in the morning. Guetta says that instead of going out to have a drink, they entered the studio, and left with a song that is already taking the global charts by storm. The record will also appear on Akon’s forthcoming album.
Much has come as a delightful surprise to Guetta during this summer-long run of chart-topping hits, but what didn’t was the changing of “Sexy B*tch” in the U.S. and U.K. to “Sexy Chick.” He even learned something thanks to Akon in the process.
“We had a discussion with the record company… and in the U.K., (bitch) is the most offensive word,” said Guetta. “Whereas in America… that’s what I’ve been told by Akon, like, a girl that takes care of herself and knows what she wants.”
Regardless, it’s what the people want: the song already reached the Top 10 in nine different countries, and is on the cusp of Top 20 in the U.S. Maybe taking language cues from Akon isn’t so bad afterall.
DAILY DOWNLOAD: Hot Chelle Rae - I Like To Dance
Part 1: Story Behind The Song
Part 2: New LP, Working With T-Pain & Taylor Swift
TMZ'S DAX: The MJ Movie
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Catch TMZ TV Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
TMZ's Dax checks in from the TMZ Newsroom with the 411 on Michael Jackson court hearings - which included the green light for a movie...
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DR. JOHN BONANNO: The Bo-Tax
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Visit Dr. John's site here.
Cosmetic Surgeon to the Celebs, Dr. John Bonanno breaks down the issues with a propsed tax on cosmetic procedures during The Ralphie Radio Show.
Visit Dr. John's site here.
TMZ'S LESLIE HARRIS: Paula Abdul On/Off AI
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Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
TMZ's Leslie Harris discusses if Paula Abdul's run on American Idol is completely finished...
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THE SKINNY: The Hippy Look
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In this edition of The Skinny, Jessie breaks down the "hippy" look, and how you can score this fashion on the cheap.
Jessie's Blog
Jessie's Twitter
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