Saturday, June 30, 2012

Britney Spears - Till the World Ends

Till the World Ends

Cindy Taylor Cinthia Moura Claudette Ortiz Coco Lee

Usher Tops Billboard Chart With Looking 4 Myself

Singer's seventh album give him his fourth #1 debut in a row.
By Gil Kaufman

<P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/usher/artist.jhtml"><B>Usher</B></a> is setting a fine example for his protégé, <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/bieber_justin/artist.jhtml"><B>Justin Bieber</B></a>. A week before the Biebs plans to storm the charts with his eagerly anticipated <a href="/news/articles/1687837/justin-bieber-live-behind-the-scenes.jhtml"><I>Believe</I></a>&#8232;, Ush will debut in the #1 spot on the <I>Billboard</I> 200 chart with his seventh album, <a href="/news/articles/1687242/usher-looking-4-myself-reviews.jhtml"><I>Looking 4 Myself</I></a>.</P><P>According to figures provided by Nielsen SoundScan, he sold 128,000 copies of the disc. The debut was the fourth #1 bow in a row for Usher, though it was significantly down from the 329,000 copies sold by his previous album, 2010's <I>Raymond V. Raymond</I>.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="MTV News Extended Play: Usher" id="id:1686957" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>The figures were not nearly what Bieber's expected to pull next week, but they were enough to hold back prog rock icons <B>Rush</B>, whose <I>Clockwork Angels</I> clocked in at #2 on sales of 103,000. The other debuts in the top 10 came from country singer <B>Josh Turner</B>, who hit #4 with <I>Punching Bag</I> (45,000), British singer/songwriter sensation <B>Ed Sheeran</B>'s <I>+</I> (42,000) and hyped rapper <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/waka_flocka_flame/artist.jhtml"><B>Waka Flocka Flame</B></a>'s <I>Triple F Life: Friends, Fans &amp; Family</I> (33,000).</P><P>The rest of the top 10: <B>Adele</B>, <I>21</I> (#3, 63,000), <B>One Direction</B>, <I>Up All Night</I> (#6, 39,000), <B>Neil Young &amp; Crazy Horse</B>, <I>Americana</I> (#7, 37,000), <B>Alan Jackson</B>, <I>Thirty Miles West</I> (#8, 37,000) and the "Rock of Ages" soundtrack (#9, 36,000).</P><P><B>Metric</B> debuted at #12 with <I>Synthetica</I> (27,000), while festival faves <B>Grace Potter &amp; The Nocturnals</B> jammed into the #17 slot with their latest, <I>The Lion The Beast The Beat</I> (24,000) and TV funnyman <B>Jimmy Fallon</B> hit #25 with his all-star comedy effort <I>Blow Your Pants Off</I> (15,000).</P><P>Usher topped the iTunes album chart as well, followed by Sheeran, Rush, "Rock of Ages," rapper <B>Kid Ink</B>'s "Up &amp; Away," One Direction, Waka, Adele, <B>John Mayer</B>'s <I>Born and Raised</i> and <B>Fun.</B>'s <I>Some Nights</I>.</P><P>On the iTunes single chart, <B>Carly Rae Jepsen</B> continued to top the list with "Call Me Maybe," with <B>Maroon 5</B> just behind with "Payphone," then <B>Katy Perry</B>'s "Wide Awake," Bieber's "As Long As You Love Me," <B>Gotye</B>'s "Somebody That I Used to Know" and <B>Pitbull</B>'s "Back in Time." Rounding out the list at #7 was Usher's "Scream," <B>Rihanna</B>'s "Where Have You Been," <B>One Direction</B>'s "What Makes You Beautiful" and Bieber's "Boyfriend." Bieber is expected to blow everyone out of the box next week with <I>Believe</I>, which could score the biggest first frame of the year.</P><P>Other new releases include the latest from <a href="/news/articles/1686557/fiona-apple-idler-wheel-btts.jhtml"><B>Fiona Apple</B></a>&#8232;, <B>Kenny Chesney</B>, <a href="/news/articles/1687831/smashing-pumpkins-oceania-billy-corgan.jhtml"><B>Smashing Pumpkins</B></a>&#8232; and <B>Walk the Moon</B>.</p>

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Captain America

Go see Captain America this weekend! Support our Colin!

I went to the premiere on Tuesday and it was the coolest thing ever. First, the movie is AMAZING and Chris Evans is a superstar. Second, there were so many damn people there it was insane. I have been to movie premieres in New York before and they were nothing like this. I mean, they closed down Hollywood Boulevard. I would've taken photos to show you, but the invite said to leave phones in the car. But here's a photo of me in my cool Captain America 3D glasses:

(Sit down, stop jumping around, it's an awesome picture, I know. And the quality is amazing. It's not grainy or reddish... it's perfect.) (No, it's not.)

(And you can totally see the Captain America logo on the side of the glasses.) (No, you can't.)

Anyway, Captain America is pulling a strong 71% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes right now so GO SEE IT! IT'S FANTASTIC! 

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Photos | MTV Buzzworthy: Pop Stars Making Taylor Swift Faces!

MTV Buzzworthy: Pop Stars Making Taylor Swift Faces!

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Usher - Climax

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  • Label: RCA Records
  • Director: Sam Pilling

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Photos | "Michael Jackson's This Is It"

"Michael Jackson's This Is It"

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Happy Anniversary, Ben Affleck & Jennifer Garner!

As the pair celebrates their seven-year wedding mark on June 29, see snapshots of the Hollywood power couple's life together

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Katie Holmes Seeking Primary Custody of Suri: Report

Let's hope that Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes won't be the next Hollywood couple to enter into a bitter custody battle.

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Friday, June 29, 2012

Ke$ha - Animal

Animal

  • Artist: Ke$ha
  • Label: RCA Records Label
  • Director:

Heidi Montag Hilarie Burton Hilary Duff Hilary Swank

Channing Tatum and Jimmy Fallon Dress As Teenage Girls

Jimmy Fallon can get his late-night guests to do some pretty ridiculous things, but he took that to the extreme when he and Magic Mike star Channing Tatum, 32, donned drag and hosted a fake teenage girl talk show called Ew! on Thursday. And watching the actor done a brunette wig and yellow tights for was nothing short of, well, comedic magic. See the skit below:

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Photos | Celebs Bid Farewell To Oprah Winfrey At Her Final Show Tapings

Celebs Bid Farewell To Oprah Winfrey At Her Final Show Tapings

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Beyonce Cast As Queen Tara In 3-D Animated Film 'Epic'

Colin Ferrell, Amanda Seyfried and Aziz Ansari join Bey in the film, due in theaters May 2013.
By James Montgomery

<P>For a while now, folks have been referring to <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/knowles_beyonce/artist.jhtml">Beyonc&#233;</a> as a queen ... but now, she's going to make it official. On the big screen.</P><P>According to <a href="http://www.deadline.com/2012/05/beyonce-colin-farrell-josh-hutcherson-amanda-seyfried-steven-tyler-lead-voice-cast-for-fox-animated-film-epic/" target="_blank">Deadline.com</a>, Beyonc&#233; has been cast as Queen Tara in the upcoming 3-D, CGI-animated film "Epic," a 20th Century Fox film from the makers of the hits "Ice Age" and "Rio."</P><P>The film reportedly tells the tale of a teenage girl transported to a secret universe, where she finds herself dropped square in the middle of a battle between the forces of good and evil. She joins forces with "a rag-tag team of fun and whimsical characters" to save the world. "Epic" is slated to hit theaters on May 24, 2013.</P><P>It's the first confirmed role for Beyonc&#233; since she took time off for maternity leave, though she's also slated to star in the Clint Eastwood-directed remake of "A Star Is Born."</P><P>Starring alongside Bey in the movie are the likes of Colin Farrell, Amanda Seyfried, Aziz Ansari and a pair of her fellow musicians, Pitbull and Aerosmith frontman/"American Idol" judge Steven Tyler. Johnny Knoxville, Jason Sudeikis and Judah Friedlander round out the cast.</P><P>Josh Hutcherson is also set to appear alongside Beyonc&#233; in the film. He's currently riding high off the massive success of "Hunger Games," which is tied with "Bridesmaids" for the most nominations at the 2012 MTV Movie Awards, which will air Sunday, June 3, at 9 p.m. ET/PT from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, California.</P><P><b>Head over to <a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/movieawards/2012/">MovieAwards.MTV.com</a> to vote for your favorite flicks now! The <a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/movieawards/2012/">21st annual MTV Movie Awards</a> air live this Sunday, June 3, at 9 p.m. ET.</b></p>

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Britney Spears - DANCE Till The World Ends

DANCE Till The World Ends

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Alessandra Ambr�sio Introduces Son Noah Phoenix

Alessandra Ambr�sio introduces her 7-week-old baby boy in a photoshoot shared on her Facebook page.

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Photos | Justin Bieber's Birthday: Celebrating 18!

Justin Bieber's Birthday: Celebrating 18!

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Usher - Dirty Dancer (Audio)

Dirty Dancer (Audio)

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Thursday, June 28, 2012

Photos | MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Pop Star Prom Court!

MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Pop Star Prom Court!

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Nora Ephron: Justin Timberlake, Steve Martin Pay Tribute

Bette Midler, Kirstie Alley, Albert Brooks, Ron Howard and more also remember the late writer/director.
By Kara Warner


Nora Ephron
Photo: Getty Images

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Photos | MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Saddest Celebrity Breakups

MTV Buzzworthy Blog: Saddest Celebrity Breakups

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Kylie Minogue: I Bonded with Giuliana Rancic Over Cancer

Every woman needs a support system when she's going through tough times. When Giuliana Rancic decided to go public with her breast cancer diagnosis, one of her inspirations was Australian pop star Kylie Minogue, who revealed her own breast cancer battle to the world in 2005. On a recent episode of Fashion Police, the two ladies talked about the bond they share as survivors.

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Usher - Lil Freak

Lil Freak

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Beyonce, Lil Wayne Inspire NiRe AllDai's 'Boss-Bitch-Behavior'

'Beyoncé is the perfect example of what a solo artist should strive for,' 'Inside Out' singer/songwriter tells MTV News.
By Akshay Bhansali

<P>Performing at the International Dance Music Awards in Miami in March and launching her first music video for her club single <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_VcKTkY4Vk" target="_blank">"Inside Out"</a> are just two of Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter NiR&#233; AllDai's endeavors since first stepping out as an artist. Her journey, which today sees her selecting songs &#8212; including tracks produced by Timbaland and the Stargate camp &#8212; for her upcoming debut album, actually began as a writer for other producers and artists.</P><P>"I've always been an artist," NiR&#233; told MTV News. "But my manager was like, 'Let's work this [writer] angle,' and it worked well because I was able to build a lot of really great relationships with dope producers who ended up helping me on my project."</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="NiR&#233; AllDai Readies Debut Album" id="vid:789067" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>"I did a first single for Starshell, who was Mary J. Blige's first artist, and the single was called 'SuperLuva' [produced by Fernando Garibay]," NiR&#233; continued. "I had a chance to write with Mary and Swizz [Beatz] and Timbaland and Dr. Dre, who's a really good friend of mine."</P><P>After getting her writing chops up, meeting the right management and finding her A&R at Capitol Records, NiR&#233; was ready to give it her all for a chance to perform for the masses. Her fearlessness, fashion and electricity are depicted vividly in her video for "Inside Out," which was directed by <a href="http://londonalley.com/?director=hannah-lux-davis" target="_blank">Hannah Lux Davis</a>, who also directed videos for Shinedown and Anjulie, among others. NiR&#233; is inspired by some of music's biggest, baddest stars, included among them Missy Elliott, Lil Wayne, and <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/knowles_beyonce/artist.jhtml">Beyonc&#233;</a>.</P><P>"Beyonc&#233; is the perfect example of what a solo artist should strive for," NiR&#233; said. "If you want to be like 'boss-bitch-behavior'! When I'm in the gym and I'm tired and can't go anymore, I'm like, 'What would Beyonc&#233; do?' She wouldn't stop."</P><P>NiR&#233; AllDai will release her second club single, "Hella Bad," soon, with a radio single to follow. She plans to release her as-yet-untitled debut album sometime this year, and she also has her fingers crossed for another, long-awaited opportunity.</P><P>"I've been looking forward to the <i>Detox,</i> [album]' NiR&#233; said. "He's a genius. We have a couple of songs on there. So Dre, please!"</P><P>For more info on NiR&#233; AllDai, check out her <a href="http://nirealldai.com/" target="_blank">website</a>.</p>

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Lady Gaga To Reveal Album Title In September

'I've played my new record for my label and will be announcing my new Album Title in September!' Gaga tweets.
By Jocelyn Vena

<P>Wondering what <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/lady_gaga/artist.jhtml">Lady Gaga</a> plans to call her next album? Well, you're going to have to wait through the summer to find out. The singer, currently on her <a href="/news/articles/1675458/lady-gaga-next-album.jhtml">controversial <i>Born This Way</i> Tour</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/ladygaga" target="_blank">tweeted</a> that she will make the announcement this fall. "Exciting news little monsters! I've played my new record for my label and will be announcing my new Album Title in September! X," she wrote.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Lady Gaga Has The Title And Concept For Her Next Album" id="vid:717202" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>Gaga has, in fact, been playing the record for her bosses and inner circle. She also revealed on Twitter that she spun the new music, her follow-up to 2011's <i>Born This Way,</i> for her longtime pal Lady Starlight. And her co-manager Vincent Herbert had some of his own <a href="/news/articles/1686196/lady-gaga-new-album.jhtml">teases for Little Monsters</a> in an interview he gave late last month.</P><P>"[It's] just [an] insane, great record. She's on tour right now, but it's just going to be a great record. Look out for the unexpected when it comes to her," he said. "We're doing it on the road right now, so it's a little hard, but it's going to be great."</P><P>Though it's unclear how far along in the recording process she is for the release, in an interview with MTV News in December, she already had the <a href="/news/articles/1675458/lady-gaga-next-album.jhtml">highly anticipated album title</a> in mind. "I've started writing it and I have the name for it and all the concepts are beginning to flourish and take place," she said. "I'm excited to put it out, but it's not done yet. So I'll put it out when it's done."</P><P>Her producer, Fernando Garibay, confirmed in a separate interview last year that Mother Monster would be working on the album while on tour. "I get a little bit of anxiety thinking about that right now. I wanna just always try to outdo ourselves, our songs. They're already incredible songs. But I feel like she's so young," he said, adding that at the time, the record was in its early stages and that "there's a lot of room to grow."</P><P>"The last record we made in bus stops and hotel rooms," he said. "Wherever she's at, we'll make it."</p>

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Lady Gaga Wants A Fake Rolex, Thailand Wants An Apology

As Gaga brings her Born This Way Ball to Bangkok, Thailand's government is enraged over her plans to buy fake goods.
By Brendan Dempsey

<P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/lady_gaga/artist.jhtml">Lady Gaga</a> apparently wants to go shopping in preparation for her next concert in Bangkok &#8212; for a fake Rolex.</P><P>At least that's what she told her 24 million Twitter followers upon her arrival in Bangkok on Wednesday (May 30). "I just landed in Bangkok baby! Ready for 50,000 screaming Thai monsters. I wanna get lost in a lady market and buy fake Rolex."</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Lady Gaga Will Bring a 'Personal' Touch To 'Born This Way' Tour" id="vid:717952" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>The tweet sparked instantaneous uproar on various social media and web forums, as many local residents felt the comment was insulting, abrasive and generally damaging to the reputation of Thailand. Gaga has yet to apologize for the tweet.</P><P><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>I just landed in Bangkok baby! Ready for 50,000 screaming Thai monsters. I wanna get lost in a lady market and buy fake Rolex.</p>&mdash; Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) <a href="https://twitter.com/ladygaga/status/205265026016223232" data-datetime="2012-05-23T11:52:50+00:00">May 23, 2012</a></blockquote> <script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The Commerce Ministry of Thailand is in a long-standing battle with piracy, and members of the government feel that this message directly undermines their efforts. An official at the ministry's Intellectual Property Department recently told <i>Reuters</i> that: "Lady Gaga is a representative of the U.S. and the U.S. puts pressure on smaller countries to promote the protection of intellectual property," adding that "she should tell her fans that they shouldn't use fake goods."</P><P>The controversial message has also been addressed by members of Thailand's music industry. Thai DJ Suharit Siamwalla responded by tweeting: "We are more civilized than you think," then added that he now plans to boycott Gaga's show on Friday.</P><P>It seems that Mother Monster just can't seem to stay out of trouble as her <i>Born This Way</i> Ball makes its way across Asia. The Thailand controversy comes almost immediately after she had to <a href="/news/articles/1685092/lady-gaga-cancels-show-indonesia.jhtml">cancel a show in Indonesia</a>, and then responded to various <a href="/news/articles/1685564/lady-gaga-islam-threat-indonesia-concert.jhtml">Islamic threats surrounding that show</a>.</P><P>Not all fans have taken umbrage with Gaga's latest comments. Throngs of fans awaited her arrival to the hotel, and people are already camped outside Rajamangala stadium in hopes of being one of the lucky "monsters" who get to meet the pop star.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Lady Gaga Finds Inspiration In Her Fans, And They Are Inspired By Her" id="vid:657588" width="415" height="255"></div><p></p>

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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Photos | Drake, Nicki Minaj, Usher And More At Hot 97 2010 Summer Jam

Drake, Nicki Minaj, Usher And More At Hot 97 2010 Summer Jam

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Beyonce Opening Act Luke James Motivated By Her 'Drive'

After opening for B in Atlantic City, New Orleans newcomer tells MTV News what he's learned from the Queen.
By Rebecca Thomas

<P>It was the morning after <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/knowles_beyonce/artist.jhtml">Beyonc&#233;</a>'s triumphant <a href="/news/articles/1685932/beyonce-michelle-obama-atlantic-city.jhtml">second show in Atlantic City</a> when we bumped into Luke James by an elevator bank at the Revel resort. R&B's reigning diva had tapped the New Orleans native to warm up the capacity crowds as she staged her comeback run over Memorial Day weekend, and James had the unmistakable bop of a man who knows he's done something ... special.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Luke James Learned To 'Give' From Beyonce" id="vid:787005" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>Signed to Island Def Jam but still largely unknown to all but soul-music diehards, James had just the night before slayed a roomful of women that included the first lady, Michelle Obama. Armed with a flirty falsetto, James tossed long-stemmed red roses and lines like, "Before I met you, girl, I never knew my heart could dance/ I was just a broken record of one-night stands," from his standout single "I Want You." So what did the handsome upstart think when he heard he'd be opening up for the Grammy winner?</P><P>"The first thing I thought I was, 'OK, I need a band, gotta get the guys together, what we gon' wear, how we gon' do it 'cause I know <i>she's</i> gonna do it ... and what songs," James recalled when he stopped by the MTV newsroom, fresh from the four-night stint.</P><P>After jotting down a few notes on his mental checklist, Luke let himself absorb the moment: "And then I'm thinking, 'This is just an amazing opportunity. ... I was just elated."</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Beyonce Gets Back To Business, Kicks Off Summer!" id="vid:785342" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>James has discovered up close what it means be a member of Queen B's court, not only because of the A.C. gigs, but because of their shared connection to Frank Gatson Jr., Beyonc&#233;'s longtime choreographer/creative director and now James' manager. Dressed casually in a denim button-down and a red knit cap that called to mind old photos of <a href="http://theselvedgeyard.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/marvin-gaye-denim-red1.jpg?w=600" target="_blank">Marvin Gaye</a>, the singer paused for a heartbeat before relaying what lessons he picked up from Mrs. Carter.</P><P>"What I learned from Beyonc&#233; is just the focus, the drive and to stay creative and to always give, just keep giving," he said. "Throughout the years that she's been doing it, since Destiny's Child to now, she's been giving.</P><P>"So this is the beginning for me ... I just want to remain giving and always [be] a necessity to people, you know?" he added thoughtfully. "Giving [fans] what they need. At the same time, it's basically giving me what I need."</P><P><i>Have you listened to Luke James? Share your reviews in the comments below!</i> </p>

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  • Label: RCA Records Label
  • Director: Ted Kenney

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Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Beyonce's 'Back To Business' With Memorial Day Concerts

'Yes, I had a baby, but it just made me more grounded,' singer says in behind-the-scenes video.
By James Dinh

<P>Time is ticking. It's only a matter of hours until <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/knowles_beyonce/artist.jhtml">Beyonc&#233;</a> makes her post-<a href="http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/01/09/jay-z-dedicates-bic-song-to-baby-blue-ivy-carter">Blue Ivy Carter</a> performance comeback with her string of <a href="/news/articles/1681308/beyonce-memorial-day-atlantic-city-shows.jhtml">Memorial Day weekend shows</a> at Atlantic City's recently launched Revel entertainment center. And with anticipation high, the pop titan is giving her fans a small taste of the behind-the-scenes action it took to transition back to her stage show ways.</P><P>In the first of a two-part video montage segment that was posted on the singer's <a href="http://www.beyonce.com/news/the-making-of-a-concert-part-1" target="_blank">website</a>, Queen B is seen working hard almost two months prior to the gigs on everything from choreography to show concept and vocal rehearsing.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Beyoncé - &quot;Love on Top&quot;" id="vid:702484" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>Despite admitting a few nerves and her inclusion in the pop-star-turned-mom club, Beyonc&#233; remained adamant about her return to the stage, "I'm enjoying being a mother, so it's like going back to my old job. It's a little strange, but it's important that you don't lose yourself and have your own passions. I'm back to work. I'm back to business."</P><P>It's the first of many candid moments in which the singer opens up and allows camera lenses to document the planning of the concerts. And by the looks of it, the chart-topper will be giving it her all. At one point, Beyonc&#233; is seen sitting on the floor with her crew of dancers conceptualizing the event. "What I'm trying to say with the show ... yes, I had a baby, but it just made me more grounded," she says.</P><P>In comparison to her intimate <a href="/news/articles/1669179/beyonce-roseland-ballroom-concert-new-york.jhtml">four-night affair</a> at New York's Roseland Ballroom in August 2011, the Revel shows are expected to be much more of a grand spectacle, with high-tech LED, intense choreography and video backdrops.</P><P>Positivity goes a long way, as her choreographer Frank Gatson Jr. co-signs the singer's intent to create a stellar event. "I think this show has the potential to be one of the greatest shows we've done. People, re-sit and listen to Beyonc&#233;, we will have a brilliant show at Revel," he said.</P><P><i>Will you be seeing Beyonc&#233; in concert this Memorial Day weekend? Tell us in the comments!</i></p>

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Usher Teases 'Incredible,' 'Crazy' Collabo With David Guetta And Ludacris

Trio recorded track for Ludacris' Ludaversal album, which drops in September.
By Christina Garibaldi

<P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/usher/artist.jhtml">Usher</a> was out to make a statement with his latest album, and he seems to have achieved that. On his seventh studio effort, <a href="/news/articles/1686990/usher-looking-4-myself-evolution.jhtml"><i>Looking 4 Myself</a>,</i> the R&B star broadened his horizons, taking a chance on some new producers, which resulted in a unique &#8212; what he calls <a href="http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/03/30/ushers-looking-for-myself-album-june/">"revolutionary pop"</a> &#8212; sound.</P><P>Teaming up with DJ/producers <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/swedish_house_mafia/artist.jhtml">Swedish House Mafia</a> and Salaam Remi, Usher enriched his genre-breaking sound on this album, especially with the artistic and sultry first single, <a href="/news/articles/1682000/climax-usher-diplo.jhtml">"Climax,"</a> produced by Diplo.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Usher Wanted To 'Challenge' Himself On 'Looking 4 Myself'" id="vid:789774.id:1686957" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>"I never would have imagined that me and Diplo would have created as much incredible music as we did," Usher recently told MTV News. "However, I felt like he could get it, and just ... the nights of going through the ideas and him being very humble in his approach. To be as successful as he is musically ... he's probably one of the most humble people that I've ever met and will sit there &#8212; I'm talking until 6 o'clock in the morning &#8212; off a melody that we've been working on all day, no words, just melody, and still be patient and still come back with a very positive vibe the next day."</P><P>Usher also went back to producers he has worked with in the past including <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/will_i_am/artist.jhtml">will.i.am</a>, Rico Love and <a href="/news/articles/1685352/usher-looking-4-myself-scream.jhtml">Max Martin</a>. And with the massive success of last year's <a href="/news/articles/1674782/usher-david-guetta-without-you.jhtml">"Without You,"</a> many were hoping that <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/guetta_david/artist.jhtml">David Guetta</a> would collaborate on <i>Looking 4 Myself.</i> Well, fear not, fans, as Usher and Guetta have gone back into the studio together for what Usher promises will be another hit record.</P><P>"Well, there is another crazy record, that he, I and Luda [Ludacris] worked on," Usher said. "I can't tell you too much about it. I'll tell you as much as he has: It's incredible, it's crazy."</P><P>When we caught up with <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/ludacris/artist.jhtml">Ludacris</a> recently at the <a href="/news/articles/1686997/ludacris-bonnaroo-2012.jhtml">Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival</a>, he revealed that this new track will actually be featured on <i>his</i> upcoming album, <a href="http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/03/13/ludacris-ludaversal-album-due-september/"><i>Ludaversal</a>,</i> which drops in September.</P><P>"That is definitely the track, absolutely," Ludacris said. "I can't tell you anything else, but that's it. That's all you need to know for now."</p>

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Britney Spears Ignites Crowd In 'X Factor' Audio Leak

Spears goes head to head with Demi Lovato after a young male contestant performs in the first auditions.
By Emily Blake

<P>When "The X Factor" producers announced that they were adding Britney Spears to the judges' panel, experts and viewers wondered whether she would have what it takes to sit alongside Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid to dole out advice to bright-eyed singers. But from the sounds of audio leaked to <a href="http://www.tmz.com/2012/05/24/britney-spears-x-factor-demi-lovato/">TMZ</a> from the first round of auditions, it seems that the audience thinks Spears will do just fine.</P><P>After months of speculation, <a href="/news/articles/1684813/britney-spears-x-factor-judge.jhtml">Spears was officially added to the "X Factor"</a> judges' panel in May for a cool $15 million per season. While the show doesn't premiere until September, audio leaked Thursday (May 24) from auditions in Austin, Texas, give us a taste of what we'll be in for come fall. In the clip, Spears and fellow newbie Demi Lovato give differing critiques to a young male contestant.</P><P>"I think that you have a great voice and your tone was great," 19-year-old Lovato told the contestant. "But, I don't really know where you fit. I don't know what's going to set you apart from other musicians who are boys. So, I think you just have to find out what makes you special and what separates you from all the other teenage boys in this industry."</P><P>Britney, on the other hand, had a some kinder words for the amateur singer. "I think you can be bigger than the next Justin Bieber," Spears said, eliciting a rambunctious response from the crowd.</P><P>"I feel like your runs are amazing," she added. "And I do feel like with a little more training, you could actually [inaudible] better presentation, but I see what's there. And you're very gifted. Thank you."</P><P><i>Do you think that Britney Spears and Demi Lovato have what it takes to be a judge on "The X Factor"? Leave your comment below!</i></P><P><center><a href="http://www.mtv.com/photos/?fid=1617615"><img src="http://www.mtv.com/news/photos/s/spotted/banner/spotted.jpg"></a></center></p>

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Monday, June 25, 2012

Britney Spears, Demi Lovato Will Bring 'Serious Wisdom' to 'X Factor'

MTV News talks to 'So You Think You Can Dance' cast about Fox's decision to enlist the two pop stars for the reality singing show.
By Jocelyn Vena

<P><b>NEW YORK</b> &#8212; As the fall TV season continues to make news, Fox has had the most buzz thanks to the <a href="/news/articles/1685004/demi-lovato-x-factor-judge.jhtml">news that Demi Lovato</a> and <a href="/news/articles/1684879/britney-spears-x-factor-deal-judge.jhtml">Britney Spears will sit down</a> beside Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid as female judges on "The X Factor," replacing Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul.</P><P>On Monday (May 14), as talent from many of the network's leading shows lined up to talk to the press at the Fox event, what everyone really wanted to know was how these two artists might fit on the reality competition show.</P><P>Given that both have made names for themselves thanks to their own unique charms as pop stars, some of the more seasoned network vets offered up some sage advice for the reality show newbies. MTV News chatted with the folks of "So You Think You Can Dance," in the hours before the presentation where they were confirmed, to get their sage advice for Brit and Demi.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="'So You Think You Can Dance' Cast Weigh In On Britney Spears, Demi Lovato For 'X Factor'" id="vid:768829" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>"You know, I don't have any advice for those ladies," "SYTYCD" host Cat Deeley explained. "What I do like about it though is they will be able to absolutely impart some serious wisdom. I love the idea that they've been in the business for so long and since being kids and so quite often they've had successes and they've had failures on things.</P><P>"And I think the most important thing is the mistakes we make," she added. "You learn so much from mistakes that you make and I think they'll be able to impart their wisdom to the new kids coming through. I think it's a great booking."</P><P>Judge Mary Murphy seemed excited by the chance to run into the girls at Fox-related events, and even shared that she'd love to see dancer Britney make an appearance on her show as well.</P><P>"So she would be a good [guest] too if she wanted to pop on over, but I think she's going to be a busy young woman with everything she has going on," she said. "I think we'll tune in to find out what the heck she's gonna say!" she said, going on to share some judging advice. "Just try to speak from the heart and you can't go wrong."</P><P>While Murphy and Deeley focused on the positive when it comes to their highly publicized judging spots, Nigel Lythgoe wondered if the singers (Britney, 30, and Demi, 19) might be too young for a mentor-type position.</P><P>"Well they've got to look on it as a brand-new show, to be frank. I don't think they need to look at the first season. I think they've got to be honest as they can be," he said of coming in for season two. "They're both artists and artists will always couch any criticism because they know that they've been criticized, so they've got to ignore that.</P><P>"They've got to be as honest as they can be with their contestants and just inspire them to be better," he said, before sharing his one hesitation about them.</P><P>"My only reservation is they're both young and I do think that mentors should be of an age," he added, joking he fears it might put older experts, like him, out of a job. "I do think mentors have had so much experience before they mentor. At the same time, both of these young ladies have had incredible personal experience and been through so much in their own lives that hopefully they can bring that to the party too. But at the end of the day, they are going to take newcomers and literally push them through a reality television competition. It's tough."</P><P><i>Do you think Demi Lovato and Britney Spears will make good judges on "The X Factor"? Leave your comment below!</i></p>

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Britney Spears Calls 'X Factor' A 'Beautiful Concept'

Spears says she wants to 'inspire' contestants on the Fox show.
By Jocelyn Vena

<P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/spears_britney/artist.jhtml">Britney Spears</a> seems poised and ready to sit beside her fellow "X Factor" judges on the <a href="/news/articles/1685066/britney-spears-demi-lovato-x-factor.jhtml">revamped second season of the show</a>. At the Fox upfront this week, the singer appeared alongside fellow newbie <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/lovato__demi/artist.jhtml">Demi Lovato</a>, as well as returning judges Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid, and gushed about the Fox reality show.</P><P>"Just really being able to be there and inspire the other contestants ... they're so young and they're trying to fulfill their dreams," she said at the event. "It's just a whole beautiful concept. It's just really cool."</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Britney Spears Explains Why She Wanted To Be A Part Of 'X Factor'" id="vid:769620" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>While her negotiations with the show had been making headlines in the weeks leading up to the official announcement, Cowell brushed off all the hoopla, which includes a rumored $15 million payday for joining the show. "A force of nature, I was somewhere in the middle, but I'm thrilled. I love these guys," he said of getting everyone, including Spears, on board. "I charmed her."</P><P>Spears seemed equally taken with the prickly Brit. "He's adorable. He's completely adorable. He didn't have to try hard," she admitted.</P><P>Spears' addition to the show is hardly the only casting making news: <a href="/news/articles/1685141/demi-lovato-x-factor.jhtml">Lovato also opened up about having the "X Factor."</a> While little is known about the final hours going into locking Lovato in for the show, she's rumored to be taking in $1 million, according to <a href="http://www.gossipcop.com/demi-lovato-1-million-dollars-x-factor-salary-paycheck-britney-spears-deal/" target="_blank">Gossip Cop</a>. Lovato was on a short list of possible contenders to appear on the show that also reportedly included Miley Cyrus and Avril Lavigne. "I'm so excited to be here," she said. "I guess you called," she added with Simon by her side. "And that's how it got set up, just a phone call." In addition to getting warm and fuzzy about each other in the interview, Cowell shared that the judges will be filming in the next couple weeks when they hit up Austin, Texas, to begin scoping out talent. And if you think the claws might come out then, Reid assured viewers that that won't be the case. "Oh no, we're gonna be really sweet to each other," he said. "Nothing controversial. It'll be perfect."</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="Simon Cowell Is 'Thrilled' To Introduce The New 'X Factor' Judges" id="vid:769268" width="415" height="255"></div><p></p>

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Beyonce, Lil Wayne Inspire NiRe AllDai's 'Boss-Bitch-Behavior'

'Beyoncé is the perfect example of what a solo artist should strive for,' 'Inside Out' singer/songwriter tells MTV News.
By Akshay Bhansali

<P>Performing at the International Dance Music Awards in Miami in March and launching her first music video for her club single <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_VcKTkY4Vk" target="_blank">"Inside Out"</a> are just two of Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter NiR&#233; AllDai's endeavors since first stepping out as an artist. Her journey, which today sees her selecting songs &#8212; including tracks produced by Timbaland and the Stargate camp &#8212; for her upcoming debut album, actually began as a writer for other producers and artists.</P><P>"I've always been an artist," NiR&#233; told MTV News. "But my manager was like, 'Let's work this [writer] angle,' and it worked well because I was able to build a lot of really great relationships with dope producers who ended up helping me on my project."</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="NiR&#233; AllDai Readies Debut Album" id="vid:789067" width="415" height="255"></div><p></P><P>"I did a first single for Starshell, who was Mary J. Blige's first artist, and the single was called 'SuperLuva' [produced by Fernando Garibay]," NiR&#233; continued. "I had a chance to write with Mary and Swizz [Beatz] and Timbaland and Dr. Dre, who's a really good friend of mine."</P><P>After getting her writing chops up, meeting the right management and finding her A&R at Capitol Records, NiR&#233; was ready to give it her all for a chance to perform for the masses. Her fearlessness, fashion and electricity are depicted vividly in her video for "Inside Out," which was directed by <a href="http://londonalley.com/?director=hannah-lux-davis" target="_blank">Hannah Lux Davis</a>, who also directed videos for Shinedown and Anjulie, among others. NiR&#233; is inspired by some of music's biggest, baddest stars, included among them Missy Elliott, Lil Wayne, and <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/knowles_beyonce/artist.jhtml">Beyonc&#233;</a>.</P><P>"Beyonc&#233; is the perfect example of what a solo artist should strive for," NiR&#233; said. "If you want to be like 'boss-bitch-behavior'! When I'm in the gym and I'm tired and can't go anymore, I'm like, 'What would Beyonc&#233; do?' She wouldn't stop."</P><P>NiR&#233; AllDai will release her second club single, "Hella Bad," soon, with a radio single to follow. She plans to release her as-yet-untitled debut album sometime this year, and she also has her fingers crossed for another, long-awaited opportunity.</P><P>"I've been looking forward to the <i>Detox,</i> [album]' NiR&#233; said. "He's a genius. We have a couple of songs on there. So Dre, please!"</P><P>For more info on NiR&#233; AllDai, check out her <a href="http://nirealldai.com/" target="_blank">website</a>.</p>

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'Glee' Michael Jackson Episode: Rumored Set List Leaks

Perez Hilton reports that January 24 episode includes a 'Beat It' and 'Billie Jean' mash-up.
By Jocelyn Vena

<P>"Glee" has already dedicated entire episodes to <a href="/news/articles/1637098/madonna-gives-props-glee-episode.jhtml">Madonna</a>, <a href="/news/articles/1648829/britney-spears-glee-episode-everything-need-know.jhtml">Britney Spears</a> and <a href="/news/articles/1639871/glee-lady-gaga-episode-fantastic-matthew-morrison.jhtml">Lady Gaga</a>, and come 2012, it's the King of Pop's turn.</P><P>A rumored set list for the January 24 "Glee" Michael Jackson tribute episode has hit the Web, and it features some of the late singer's greatest hits. <a href="http://perezhilton.com/2011-12-27-glee-michael-jackson-tribute-episode-setlist#.TvoRm0rkk7A" target="_blank">Perez Hilton</a> reports that 14 tracks have made the final cut, although the list has yet to be confirmed by anyone connected with the show.</P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="'Glee' Cast Members Talk Michael Jackson Episode" id="vid:549513.id:1645343" width="240" height="211"></div><p></P><P>The set list (along with who will perform the track) reportedly includes "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' " (Blaine), "Bad" (the New Directions and the Warblers), "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" (Finn and Rachel), "Smooth Criminal" (Santana and Sebastian), "Never Can Say Goodbye" (Quinn), "In the Closet" (Brittany and Santana), "We Are the World" (the New Directions and the Warblers), "Black and White" (Puck), "Ghost"/"Monster" (New Directions), "Beat It"/"Billie Jean" (Warblers), "The Way You Make Me Feel" (Kurt) and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" (Artie).</P><P>This is hardly the first time the show has paid homage to Jackson. Back in 2010, the <a href="/news/articles/1657395/glee-thriller.jhtml">New Directions performed his track "Thriller,"</a> complete with zombie garb, during an episode that aired after the Super Bowl. The show has also previously covered "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)" and "Man in the Mirror."</P><P>Back in 2010, the cast of the hit Fox show had only imagined what it would be like to have an entire <a href="http://hollywoodcrush.mtv.com/2010/08/09/glee-michael-jackson/">episode dedicated to Jackson</a>. "I would love to do a Michael Jackson episode," Amber Riley told MTV News at the time. "You know, it's so many [songs that I love], but my favorite song by him is 'Human Nature.' I love that song."</P><P>While Riley seemed psyched about the opportunity, castmate Jenna Ushkowitz found the possibility a little more daunting. "That's a scary, scary episode to do," she said. "[But] that would be absolutely amazing."</P><P><i>Are you happy with the rumored set list? What's missing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!</i></p>

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