Souce: http://www.guardian.co.uk/

40 years, 3 chords, 2 gongs

Confirming that conformity comes with longevity, Status Quo's ageing rockers Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi have joined the establishment - accepting OBEs in today's New Year honours list.

Still rockin' all over the world at 61 and 60 respectively, the men behind one of Britain's most successful, and hard-living, bands for the past four decades, have been recognised for services to music and to charity.

Yesterday, abandoning any rock'n'roll pretensions, they admitted they were absolutely delighted.

"Us, of all people!" said Rossi, lead singer. "I'm not sure that we deserve it, but f*ck it, I'm so made up it's ridiculous. You hear about people refusing them because it's not rock'n'roll but that's a d*ckhead approach. My partner [Parfitt] is even more excited about it - he's probably blubbing. You start off rebellious, a teenager in a band, but you end up being part of the establishment."

After more than 40 years, 22 British top 10 singles, 32 album hits and more than 118m record sales worldwide, the band that bequeathed to the nation a distinctive hernia-inducing, thumbs-in-the-belt-loops rock dance, are still lauded as Britain's hardest working band, playing to 250,000 fans at 27 arenas in 2009 alone. They have also raised millions for charity.

Given decades of notoriously wild living, Parfitt doubted that he could be suitable candidate for an honour.

"I'd kind of given up hoping. Particularly with my wild past - if they'd reviewed some of my old newspaper cuttings," said the lead guitarist and singer, who has survived an emergency quadruple heart bypass and a cancer scare.

Source: http://www.vintageguitar.com/

The Gibson Keb Mo Blues Master model honors the three-time Grammy Award winner. The guitar is a flat-top acoustic made in the tradition of the great small bodied Gibson blues boxes with the added versatility of a built-in L.R. Baggs Element pick up with sound hole mounted volume control. The Keb Mo Signature model is available in a limited edition of only 300. Gibson's "L" series acoustic guitars were there at the very birth of blues played by the great blues originator Robert Johnson, among others. This inspiration follows through with the Keb Mo Blues Master. The model packs all of the tonal nuance and sweetness you could hope for in a high-end, hand-crafted acoustic guitar while vintage specs include the 12th fret neck/body joint that positions the bridge right in the body's "sweet spot" for optimum resonance. The new model is reminiscent of the best of acoustic guitars from the 20s and early 30's. Finishes include Antique Natural or Vintage Sunburst with double antiquing. The guitar has a cream top, back and fingerboard binding, herringbone trim, mother of pearl inlays and double-ring soundhole rosettes. It comes with a Gibson hardshell case, a personally signed interior label by the artist Keb Mo.

Source: http://www.wildwoodguitars.com/

Gibson Acoustic honors three-time Grammy Award Winner Keb Mo' with the release of the Keb Mo' Bluesmaster, an acoustic guitar custom made in the tradition of the greatest small-bodied Gibson blues acoustics. A Limited Edition of 300 guitars.

Vintage Sunburst, An Original First Run, Lightweight Gibson L-00 Body Style, Adirondack Red Spruce Top with Custom Light Dimensions, Solid Honduran Mahogany Back and Sides, Custom Neck Width and Keb Mo' Designed "V" Profile with French Heel, Rosewood Fingerboard and Bridge With Bone Nut and Saddle, 25" Scale Length, MOP Headstock Logo Inlays and Dot Position Markers, Custom Herringbone Top Trim, Nickel Open Back Tuners with 14:1 Gear Ratio, 12th Fret-to-Body for Maximum "Sweetspot" Bridge Placement, Custom Label Each Personally Signed By Keb Mo', Includes Case and COA.

Source: http://www.thestar.com/

Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean has announced 57 new appointments to or within the Order of Canada. David Pecaut, the Toronto visionary and city-builder who passed away earlier this month, is one of two recipients this year to be honoured posthumously.

The recipients also include hockey legend and mentor Mario Lemieux and rocker Neil Young, who will both be made Officers of the Order of Canada. Alexa McDonough, former leader of the NDP and Ivan Reitman, the director of films like Ghostbusters and Kindergarten Cop were also appointed Officers.

Pecaut was named a Member of the Order of Canada, along with 32-others, for a lifetime of distinguished service to the community.

Pecaut, who passed away on December 14 after a battle with cancer, is recognized for his service as a civic leader and contributions to the arts scene in Toronto.

The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to community and service to the nation. Over the last 40 years, more than 5000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order.

New members of the order include aboriginal actress Tantoo Cardinal and former Montreal Canadians captain Emile "Butch" Bouchard, who led the Habs to four Stanley Cups and recently had his No. 3 jersey retired.

Source: http://www.rollingstone.com/

Earlier this month, Eddie Vedder, Melissa Etheridge, John Mellencamp, Ben Harper and Sting brought the songs of Bruce Springsteen to an unlikely venue: Washington, DC's opulent Kennedy Center. The full Kennedy Center Honors aired on CBS last night, giving fans the opportunity to see the New Jersey legend sitting beside President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as a cavalcade of artists professed their admiration for his life and music. Caroline Kennedy described Springsteen as "a rocker from the Jersey shore who created his own musical universe and across America and the world became ‘The Boss,' " at the top of the show. (Read our on-the-scene report from the Kennedy Center Honors, which also paid tribute to Robert DeNiro, Dave Brubeck, Mel Brooks and Grace Bumbry.)

"I am not a music critic. Nor historian, nor archivist," Jon Stewart began his introduction to Springsteen's tribute. "I cannot tell you where Bruce Springsteen falls in the pantheon of the American songbook. I can not illuminate the context of his work or his roots in the folk and oral history traditions of our great nation. But I am from New Jersey," Stewart joked, "and so I can tell you what I believe, and what I believe is this: I believe that Bob Dylan and James Brown had a baby. And they abandoned this child on the side of the road, between the exit interchanges of 8A and 9 on the New Jersey Turnpike. That child is Bruce Springsteen," he said as Springsteen erupted in laughter in the balcony.

"When you listen to Bruce's music, you aren't a loser. You are a character in an epic poem … about losers," Stewart continued. Before a montage that traced Springsteen's Jersey roots, Stewart referenced Springsteen's work ethic and heart: "He empties the tank, every time. He empties that tank for his family, he empties that tank for his art, he empties that tank for his audience and he empties that tank for his country."

Ron Kovic, the author of Born on the 4th of July, next related a story about meeting Springsteen and being moved to tears when Bruce dedicated "Darkness on the Edge of Town" to him at a San Francisco concert.

John Mellencamp kicked off the musical tribute with an acoustic version of "Born in the U.S.A." that exploded into a full-band rock out. Ben Harper and Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles took the stage for a countrified duet on "I'm on Fire." Melissa Etheridge next turned in a traditional take on "Born to Run" that brought the crowd to its feet, and Eddie Vedder did an intimate take on The Rising's "My City of Ruins" with a gospel chorus. Sting arrived onstage last to massive cheers for a performance of "The Rising" that was so intense that even the Obamas — along with the rest of the audience — stood and swayed.

The Kennedy Center Honors also featured Aretha Franklin paying tribute to Grace Bumbry, calling the mezzo-soprano singer "the hallmark of the true diva." A tribute to Mel Brooks featured Jack Black singing in the Robin Hood role of Mel Brooks' Men in Tights, as well as Harry Connick Jr., Frank Langella, Martin Short, Glee's Matthew Morrison and Matthew Broderick taking on selections from Brooks' hilarious songbook. The sounds of Dave Brubeck's "Take 5″ filled the auditorium as Herbie Hancock explained how the jazz great inspired him. And Ben Stiller interrupted his speech for Robert DeNiro to stare in awe at Springsteen, chanting "Bruce!" with his fist in the air.

Source: http://www.theage.com.au/

Legendary Australian guitarist Rowland S. Howard has lost his battle with liver cancer, aged 50.

His slashing, reverb-drenched guitar style with bands such as The Birthday Party and Boys Next Door cast a spell over a new generation of guitarists from bands such as Witch Hats and Digger and the Pussycats.

Howard's last public performance was at St Kilda's Prince Bandroom in October.

Howard played a pivotal role in the Australian punk movement, which was captured in Richard Lowenstein's Australian punk documentary released this year, We're Living on Dog Food.

His second solo album Pop Crimes — released to critical acclaim earlier this year almost a decade after his debut — was the swansong to his brilliant legacy.

Source: http://www.gibson.com/

On December 27th, Gibson along with the Miami Dolphins and the team work of several ER teams, Sundays NFL game between Miami and Houston in Miami was the platform for an amazing Half Time show honoring the memory of Les Paul.

A stellar rendition of the Star Spangled Banner was played by Australian guitar virtuoso and singer Orianthi on her Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul Axcess.

One hundred children rocked out on the field with all Gibson and Epiphone Les Paul guitars.

Along with Orianthi, guitar legend Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick and Paul McCartney’s guitarist Brian Ray played a medley of classic rock songs featuring The Rolling Stones hit, I Can’t Get no Satisfaction.

Reference to the half time show as the Gibson Les Paul Tribute was announced all through the game.

Source: http://www.nme.com/

Status Quo have been recognised as the hardest-working band in the British music industry.

The Performing Rights Society list also included Cliff Richard And The Shadows, Take That, Coldplay and Kings Of Leon, who took the second, third, fourth and fifth spots respectively, according to BBC News.

The list was compiled based on the number of fans bands performed to in the UK during 2009.

Status Quo played to 250,000 people at 27 arenas, putting them at the top of the list.

Frontman Francis Rossi said: "Performing in front of thousands of fans is the ultimate experience for any band."

PRS is the body that collects royalties for songwriters.

Source: http://www.music-news.com/

Yet more acts have today been added to the world-class line-up of this year’s Isle of Wight Festival. James, Doves, Ocean Colour Scene, Paloma Faith, The Saturdays, Shakespears Sister and Daisy Dares You will all make their way to Seaclose Park to perform at the iconic festival, which takes place Friday 11 – Sunday 13 June 2010.

This comes hot on the heels of the news that international superstars Jay-Z, The Strokes, Blondie, Pink, Orbital and Squeeze are also taking to the stage to start the festival season in true Isle of Wight style!

Now in the ninth year since its return, the Isle of Wight Festival is renowned for mixing legendary superstars and international acts with fresh and exciting newcomers. At the start of a new decade, the festival continues to live up to its reputation by showcasing a mix of innovative and high calibre performers.

Headlining The Big Top on Sunday 13 June will be Manchester’s finest, James. The band spearheaded the Madchester movement in the early nineties and received universal acclaim with hits including the anthemic Sit Down, Laid, Getting Away With It (All Messed Up) and Born Of Frustration.

Doves will be taking to the Main Stage on Friday 11 June. The band, also from Manchester, is made up of twin brothers Jez and Andy Williams along with school friend Jimi Goodwin. Their 2000 album release, Lost Souls, was heralded a masterpiece on its release and was nominated for a prestigious Mercury Music Prize. The eagerly anticipated follow up, Kingdom of Rust, was released earlier this year.

Birmingham's kings of rock 'n' folk Ocean Colour Scene will play the Big Top on Sunday. The band are set to release their hotly anticipated ninth studio album, entitled Saturday, in the New Year as they approach their 21st anniversary together. Little did they know back then that by the release of their second album, Moseley Shoals, Ocean Colour Scene would be bonafide rock stars with hits including The Day We Caught The Train and The Riverboat Song leaving an indelible print on music-lovers everywhere.

The force of nature that answers to the name Paloma Faith will be bringing her brand of bluesy soul to the festival as she plays the Main Stage on Saturday afternoon. An ex-magician’s assistant, burlesque performer and actress, Paloma burst on to the music scene with tracks including Stone Cold Sober and New York and is sure to electrify the audience with her renowned live performances.

Pop princesses The Saturdays will be making their festival debut at The Big Top on Saturday. The band stormed into the charts in 2008 and have enjoyed hit after hit since then, ensuring the audience is in for a very sexy, sassy musical treat.

Shakespears Sister was formed in 1988 by ex Bananarama singer songwriter Siobhan Fahey and, along with Marcella Detroit, enjoyed massive success with worldwide hits including Stay and You’re History. In 2009, Fahey began performing again and released a new album entitled Songs From The Red Room.

Fifteen-year-old Daisy Coburn, better known as Daisy Dares You will be heading to the Big Top on Friday. Tipped as the UK’s answer to Avril Lavigne, Daisy has exploded on to the scene and is expected to do big things in 2010 thanks to her unique brand of exuberant pop-rock.

Each year the Isle of Wight Festival brings together 55,000 free spirited festival goers, in a simply beautiful setting. It is undoubtedly one of the most distinctive and well-loved festivals on the calendar and the three UK Festival Awards for 'Best Major UK Festival’, 'Outstanding Greener Festival’ and 'Outstanding Contribution to Festivals’ (awarded to John Giddings) is proof of just that.

The Isle of Wight Festival takes place 11th - 13th June at Seaclose Park, Newport, Isle of Wight

Keep up to date with the Festival at www.isleofwightfestival.com

Source: http://www.gadsdentimes.com/

Caroline Shines arrived home last week to find what she says "is the best Christmas present I can think of."


Her street off Crescent Ridge Road had a bright new sign designating it Johnny Shines Street, after her father, the late and great blues musician who lived in Holt for the last 20 years of his life before his death in 1992.

"It's both a Christmas present and birthday present, since my birthday is Dec. 26," Shines said last week as she, also a blues singer, got ready for a gig at the NorthRiver Yacht Club, where she and the Debbie Bond Fabulous Blues Band were to play for the annual Jim Walter Resources Christmas party.

Johnny Shines, a member of the Blues Hall of Fame, played slide guitar and was inspired by Robert Johnson, the great and tragic blues man of the 1930s with whom Shines often traveled.

Shines was born in Frayser, Tenn., and like many black musicians of his era he eventually migrated to Chicago where he cut some classic blues records in the 1940s and 1950s. He moved to Holt in the early 1970s and was still playing locally when he died at the age of 76, less than a week before his 77th birthday.

"He had a show booked for the Train Station (a former Tuscaloosa music venue) the next week when he died," said Caroline, his only child.

It was Caroline's idea to rename what had been 11th Street, the only place she and her father ever lived in the Tuscaloosa area, Johnny Shines Street.

But to do so she had to secure the approval of every resident and property owner on the street before the Tuscaloosa County Commission, which has jurisdiction over unincorporated Holt, would give its approval.

"I walked up and down this street for weeks," she said Friday. "I even had to get court records and get on the Internet to track down some property owners who live out of state and write them letters.

"It took a lot of time, but it was worth it."

The commission approved her request in August, but commission clerk Lisa Whitehead, who Caroline says "was a tremendous help at every step of the way," said the Johnny Shines Street signs did not arrive until earlier this week.

"They had to be special ordered, and I guess there was some sort of backup at the state highway department," she said. "But they got here, and we got them up as soon as possible."

Bond, one of the founders of the nationally-recognized Alabama Blues Project that teaches after-school music classes and tries to bring attention to blues musicians with Alabama ties, said she is thrilled the street where Johnny Shines spent his last years now bears his name.

"We can't let our rich heritage in the blues be forgotten, and we've got to not only preserve it, but keep it going through the young people," said Bond, who often backed up Shines on guitar.

Bond said the blues project also wants to raise money for a monument at Shines' grave in Cedarwood Cemetery south of Tuscaloosa.

"Two or three times a year we get people from all over the world contacting us and wanting to know where they can find Johnny's grave," she said. "Sometimes I think there is more reverence for the blues in Europe than in the United States, where it was born.

"But at least now we have a Johnny Shines Street we can show blues tourists," she said.

Source: http://www.timescolonist.com/

Kevan Carlsen and Brad Tasker spent Christmas Day in search of a homeless blues musician named Black Velvet, so they can give him what could be the most important Christmas gift he'll ever receive.

Carlsen, with the help of Tasker, produced a CD of soulful songs that Black Velvet -- a.k.a. Michael Thompson -- has been belting out on the streets of Victoria for nearly 20 years.

"A lot of the best blues players go their whole life without ever being recorded," said Carlsen, 24, who works at Alloy Music in Langford and plays guitar in a band called The Beat Swingers. "And there was a fear this would happen to him."

Carlsen first heard Thompson's unmistakable music drifting through downtown streets, mostly at night as the bars let out, several years ago.

Last year, he used his recording equipment to capture Thompson's deep, raspy voice and rhythmic guitar, using the courtyard of the Victoria Public Library to achieve the right acoustics.

At home in his studio, Carlsen added background vocals, bass guitar and percussion instruments.

The plan was to give Thompson dozens of copies of the CD so the talented guitarist could make money selling them.

"I wanted to help him out. He can make a lot of money off it, I'm sure," Carlsen said while showing off the CD, the cover of which features a professional photo of Thompson with his acoustic guitar.

Carlsen spent the last year putting the project together and last month, with the hope of surprising Thompson at Christmas, he asked Tasker, a friend and drummer who works at Long and McQuade music store, to help get it done.

The two finished the disc at 5 a.m. on Tuesday and have gone out each day since looking for Thompson so they can give him the final product.

Thompson typically performs on Douglas Street near the Sticky Wicket, but "when we want to find him, he's nowhere," 20-year-old Tasker said, standing in front of Streetlink, one of the stops on their search yesterday afternoon.

Staff at Streetlink gave them a list of churches serving dinner to the homeless, where they asked for Thompson, without success.

Carlsen calls Thompson an "eccentric innovator" who puts his own spin on classic blues music.

"It's got a lot of traditional roots but there's nothing like it."

The pair had already sold one of Black Velvet's CDs yesterday, after they told a store clerk about their search for him.

"There's a lot of excitement about it," Carlsen said. "Everyone that knows him wants one right now."

But as the two parted ways to have Christmas dinner with family, they still hadn't found the blues singer.

Tasker was confident they'll give him the gift eventually. "He really deserves it," he said.

"His music has such soul."

Source: http://www.nydailynews.com/

Folk rocker Vic Chesnutt died Friday at the age of 45 after falling in a coma.

Constellation Records posted a note on its Web site stating that Chesnutt died in Athens, Georgia, at 2:59 p.m.

There was a flurry of unconfirmed reports that the 45-year-old Chesnutt's condition was the result of a suicide attempt.

Chesnutt had a long history of struggling with depression, alcoholism and drug abuse, according to NPR.org.

The singer has recorded more than 15 albums and has done numerous collaborations with other artists, such as Widespread Panic and Elf Power.

His last two albums - "At The Cut" and "Skitter On Take Off" - were both released in 2009.

Source: http://www.desertdispatch.com/

Source: http://minnesota.publicradio.org/

liverpoolecho

Man denies battering man to death with his own guitar

A MAN has denied battering his music-loving pal to death with his own guitar.

Peter Howarth, 36, is alleged to have attacked Craig McGowan in a jealous rage because of Tracey Cheeseman a woman they had both dated.

Mr McGowan, who was known as Bones, was found lying in a coma in a pool of blood by his mother Barbara Heaps in the living room of his Whiston flat.

The 35-year-old, who suffered from a genetic condition called Marfan Syndrome, was taken to hospital but pronounced dead on June 24.

Howarth, 36, who lived just a few doors away in Dursley, denies murdering him.

Giving evidence to a Liverpool crown court jury he repeatedly denied the attack, insisting he had been at his home at the time of the attack.

But he admitted lying his head off to police about his movements on the night of the fatal attack. He insisted he had still been in shock.

He said: I did lie, cos I was so confused. I was really, really confused.

I had been arrested for the assault on my friend Craig.

Howarth was then asked by William Waldron QC, prosecuting: Why not spill everything, so you can say look heres the story ?

Labels: Guitar Crime Guitar News Daily

NME


Coldplay's Chris Martin to auction his first guitar for charity

Coldplay have revealed further details of their "End Of Decade Clearout Sale" to help raise money for the charity Kids Company.

As previously reported, the band had announced they were giving fans the chance to bid on a range of a instruments, costumes and signed memorabilia in the charity auction.

The auction begins today (December 18) on Ebay, with the group recently posting up a catalogue of all the items up for sale.

Included in the sale are Chris Martin's first ever guitar. Inscribed 'Christopher AJ Martin' in tippex, the guitar was used to write many of Coldplay's early songs, as well as featuring on their debut album 'Parachutes'.

Also up for sale are the costumes the band wore on their 'Viva La Vida' world tour, the globe used on the cover of their debut album and many more unique items.

For those with a modest income, the band are also auctioning a collection of signed lithographs, available on a first-come, first-served basis. The prints will be sold for £10 each and will appear on the Kids Company Ebay page at random times during the the sale which runs from December 18-31.

For more information and to download the auction catalogue please visit Coldplay.com

Labels: Cold Play, Guitar News Daily

sleazeroxx.com


Randy Rhoads Blizzard Of Ozz Amplifier Being Sold For $12,500 An amplifier used by Randy Rhoads on the European leg of the first Blizzard of Ozz tour is being auctioned at www.eBay.com. The opening bid for this rare amp is set at $12,500!

According to the auction; I, being a Randy Rhoads fan, purchased it for myself when Jet Records offered it in trade on Risson LTA stacks for Steve Kara of The Electric Prunes Band shortly after Randy Rhoads' death. Jet Records was then owned By Sharon Osbourne's Dad and represented many top groups of that era.

I put it in storage some 20 plus years ago with all my other amplifier components when I closed down Risson Amplifiers and went into the Computer Consulting business. It was working perfectly when traded in and I did not use or even clean it, so as to save it as used by Randy Rhoads.

I got so involved with computers over the years, that I forgot I had this amp. I am now again, building amplifiers and found this and some other items I will also be selling. It is a real shame it has just been sitting for so long. It should be played and appreaciated for its history. I am an Amplifier Engineer and do not really play. So I decided to sell to someone who could enjoy its sound and history. It has already contributed so much to the music scene.

Jet Records stated in an accompanying letter that prior to Randy using it in rehearsal and on stage in Ozzy's band in Europe, it was used on tours of Ariel Bender and Widowmaker.

This is a real piece of Rock History, having been used by several special guitarists.

For more details, pictures and the Larry Ross letter authenticating the amp's history visit www.ebay.com

Labels: Guitar News Daily, Randy Rhoads

Source: http://wowktv.com/

Source: http://nashville.bizjournals.com/

Source: http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/

Source: http://news.scotsman.com/

Source: http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/

Source: http://www.premierguitar.com/

Source: http://worldmusiccentral.org/

Greenpeace Canada is set to release an exclusive two-disc, re-mastered live recording Amchitka, the 1970 concert that launched Greenpeace, featuring Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and the late Phil Ochs. The concert, a fundraiser to protest U.S. nuclear bomb tests near Amchitka, Alaska is available exclusively through Greenpeace and all proceeds will benefit the organization.

“We are pleased to offer this musical slice of history to Greenpeace supporters and music lovers around the world,” said Bruce Cox, Greenpeace Canada's executive director. “This CD is a piece of musical magic. It contains never before heard songs, duets and chatter that capture the confidence and hope of the times. It carries a timeless message that change is possible.”

The concert, which took place at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, British Columbia on 16 October 1970, was organized by former trial lawyer and activist Irving Stowe. As co-director of the Don't Make A Wave Committee, he raised enough money to send 11 peace activists by boat, christened The Greenpeace, to the Aleutian Island of Amchitka. The activists were unsuccessful in stopping the tests, but their voyage in 1971 marks the birth of the worldwide organization known today as Greenpeace.

“The Amchitka voyage would not have happened without the concert, and so we owe a debt of gratitude to Irving Stowe, and the talents of Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and Phil Ochs for generating the momentum that ultimately launched Greenpeace,” continued Cox. “The activists that traveled to Amchitka set the example that has guided and defined Greenpeace: non-violent direct action to protect our environment and motivate societal change.”

The upcoming release features concert performances by then-rising Canadian star Joni Mitchell and a 22-year old James Taylor. Protest singer, Phil Ochs kicks off the CD. Earlier that year Mitchell had been named Top Female Performer of 1970 by Melody Maker magazine and Taylor had released his major breakthrough album Sweet Baby James.

Of the historic concert, Amchitka emcee and Canadian broadcaster, Terry David Mulligan says, “The crew of 'The Greenpeace' took hold of our hearts and minds and pulled all of us along. As always, music carried the day.”

Source: http://www.music-news.com/

Pearl Jam have been revealed as the headline act for London's Hard Rock Calling event next summer.

The Seattle group will play Hyde Park on 25 June with the rest of the three-day Hard Rock Calling bill to be revealed later.

Pearl Jam, estimated to have sold around 60 million albums worldwide, will play the first night of the three-day event.

Hard Rock Calling takes place the same weekend as the Glastonbury Festival, fuelling rumours the band may also perform at the festival, which will be celebrating its 40th anniversary.

Tickets for the first night of Hard Rock Calling go on sale at 11am Friday with the full support and further line-up announcements due at a later date.

Festival Director Toby Leighton-Pope said 'We are very excited to bring the festival back for its fifth year. Pearl Jam are a great is a great addition to the phenomenal acts we’ve have playing at Hard Rock Calling."

Source: http://www.startribune.com/

A Minneapolis blues musician has been convicted in St. Paul federal court of evading more than $330,000 in federal income taxes owed for several recent tax years.

Steven Mark Renner, 53, was found guilty by a jury of four counts of tax evasion.

According to the indictment and evidence presented at trial, Renner diverted substantial amounts from his Internet-based money transmission business, Cash Cards International (CCI), between 2002 and 2005 to pay personal expenses as well as make investments in coins, oil wells, art, stamps and vintage musical instruments.

He also was accused of using CCI money to promote his band, Stevie Renner and the Renegades.

From 2001 to 2006, Renner owned CCI, with locations in Minnesota, South Dakota and Hawaii. He failed to file tax returns with the IRS for 2002 through 2004.

"Tax evasion is not a victimless crime," said Julio La Rosa, acting special agent in charge of the IRS-Criminal Investigation Division's St. Paul field office. "Honest, hardworking taxpayers pay the price when others choose to evade their tax obligations. As this verdict shows, those that cheat will get caught."

Renner faces a potential maximum penalty of five years in prison for each count. Sentencing has yet to be scheduled.

Source: http://uk.news.yahoo.com/

Punk icon Steve Jones is back on air in America after signing a deal to bring his Jonesy's Jukebox radio show to the internet.

The former Sex Pistols star became a cult hit on Los Angeles-based station Indie 103.1 but he quit in January just before the network closed.

Now the show is back on IAmRogue.com and Jones was broadcasting again on Friday when he interviewed movie star Tobey Maguire.

Jones reveals the low-key programme is the start of things to come - and news of a new radio gig will be announced soon.

He tells WENN, "This is my next step before returning to radio."

Jones is thrilled his temporary new show is a visual treat for fans listening around the globe.

He adds, "I like the fact that we are able to broadcast in video, so that will give the show another dimension and allow me to create some more bloody good times."

The website is an offshoot of Relativity Media. Jonesy's Jukebox will broadcast live for an hour every day for the immediate future.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/

Rock star Bruce Springsteen was presented with a Kennedy Center honour by President Barack Obama at a White House reception on Sunday.

"I'm the president but he's the boss," said Obama as he introduced the star.

Actor Robert De Niro, comic Mel Brooks, jazz pianist and composer Dave Brubeck and opera singer Grace Bumbry were also honoured.

The Kennedy Center annually awards figures from the world of arts for their contribution to US culture.

Guests included Jack Black, Edward Norton, Matthew Broderick, Ben Stiller and Martin Scorsese.

"We worked really hard for our music to be part of American life and our fans' lives," said Springsteen, 60.

"So it's an acknowledgement that you've kind of threaded your way into the culture in a certain way. It's satisfying," he added.

Sharon Stone and Jack Black discuss the stars who were honoured on the red carpet

John Mellencamp, Jennifer Nettles, Melissa Etheridge and Sting all sang Springsteen tracks at the event.

The show will air on 29 December in the US on the CBS channel.

Meryl Streep made a tribute to her friend De Niro: "He did what I and my drama school friends dreamed of - to disappear and morph into a (character)", she said.

The pair starred together in The Deer Hunter more than thirty years ago.

Singer Aretha Franklin recounted highlights of Bumbry's career.

Bumbry, 72, was the first black opera singer to appear at Germany's Wagner festival, Bayreuth, when she was 25.

Many conservative opera-goers were outraged but by the end of the performance, the audience applauded for 30 minutes and there were 42 curtain calls.

Jack Black paid tribute to Brooks with a rendition of Men in Tights and Harry Connick Jr sang High Anxiety.

Last year's honours went to Morgan Freeman, The Who stars Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey, as well as singer Barbra Streisand.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/

Legendary guitarist, Eric Clapton recently announced his tour dates for 2010. The itinerary includes three concerts up north with fellow legend and guitar virtuoso, Jeff Beck. While that mini-tour will only reach as far south as New York, Clapton announced that his solo tour would include a date at Mellon Arena.

While the three dates with Beck take place in before the beginning of Clapton's solo tour, it is unclear whether or not Beck will join Clapton on any of his other dates. One thing did become apparent, however: Clapton is looking to put together one of the biggest tours in recent memory.

As if the announcement that guitar-god Eric Clapton was coming to Pittsburgh early next-year wasn't exciting enough, Clapton also announced his opening act: Roger Daltrey of The Who.

Daltrey, who is currently fresh off his own solo tour, will be fresh off of performing in front of perhaps billions at the Super Bowl halftime show.

Clapton has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times and has been the recipient of several Grammy Awards, plus two more nominations for this year's Grammy Awards.

Daltrey is also a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee with several Grammy's under his belt. He was also, along with fellow member of the Who, Pete Townshend, part of the first rock band to be honored at the Kennedy Center Honors.

This performance promises to bring classic tunes and all the excellence that comes with the honors and prestige of two of the greatest living legends in rock and roll. Tickets for the Mellon Arena performance go on sale December 12th at 10 a.m.

Full Clapton Tour Itinerary

With Jeff Beck
February 18th - New York, NY
February 21st - Toronto, ON
February 22nd - Montreal, QC

With Roger Daltrey
February 25th - Pittsburgh, PA
February 27th - Nashville, TN
February 28th - Birmingham, AL
March 2nd - Tulsa, OK
March 3rd - Kansas City, MO
March 5th - Memphis, TN
March 6th - New Orleans, LA
March 8th - Raleigh, NC
March 9th - Atlanta, GA
March 11th - Ft. Lauderdale, FL
March 13th - Orlando, FL

Source: http://wcco.com/

For those who grew up or went to school in the Twin Cities in the 1980s, there was one band that everybody remembers seeing. It was The Suburbs.

Guitarist Bruce Allen's death on Monday night after a long history of health problems, including hemophilia and heart disease, has hit many like the loss of a family member.

Star Tribune music critic Jon Bream said, other than Prince, the Suburbs were the best live band he has ever seen.

"The Suburbs were the best live band in the Twin Cities in the past 35 years. They were exciting. They were thrilling. They were dangerous," said Bream.

Guitar player Bruce Allen's unique style was part of the group's signature sound.

"He was the heart of the rhythm machine. It was a very rhythmic dance-oriented band and his rhythmic guitar really helped define the Suburbs rhythmic sound," said Bream.

Allen died surrounded by family and friends, including members of the one-time rival band, the Suicide Commandos.

"It lined up that we were all together and by Bruce's side and that was really, really lovely," said Chris Osgood of the Suicide Commandos. "He was very much about the spirit of making rock and roll music, energetic, playful all of those things."

The surviving Suburbs released a statement about their band mate and friend: "Bruce played guitar and sang with our group, The Suburbs, from 1977 to 2005 contributing his unique guitar skills and warm and funny personality to a band and moment in music that many have recognized made a difference in Minnesota pop culture. We will miss him very much."

Source: http://www.variety.com/

Pushing one of the most valuable posthumous brands in rock, holding company Experience Hendrix will mount a fourth all-star tour honoring the music of Jimi Hendrix in March.

Biennial "Experience Hendrix" trek will feature several top-flight guitarists - Joe Satriani, Jonny Lang, Eric Johnson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Brad Whitford, Doyle Bramhall II, Ernie Isley, and Vernon Reid - playing music written and inspired by guitar deity Hendrix, who died in September 1970.

Rhythm section will include bassist Billy Cox - a close friend of Hendrix during his days as an Army paratrooper, and a member of both the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Band of Gypsys - and drummer Chris Layton of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan's Double Trouble.

Select tour dates will include appearances by David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas of Los Lobos, Susan Tedeschi and Robert Randolph's Sacred Steel.

Controlled by the Hendrix family, Experience Hendrix has aggressively exploited the musician's legacy since gaining control of his catalog in 1995.

Earlier this year, the company announced a new long-term licensing agreement with Sony Music, which will begin a new Hendrix reissue campaign in 2010. (Hendrix's '60s albums were originally released by Reprise Records and were most recently licensed by Universal Music Group.)

Experience Hendrix attracted some derision from guitar buffs earlier this year after it licensed rights to a Jimi Hendrix model axe to Gibson, since the late performer played a Fender Stratocaster almost exclusively.

Source: http://www.prnewswire.com/

MIKE EINZIGER (INCUBUS), ZACHARY MERRICK (ALL TIME LOW) AND CHAD SMITH (RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS) JOIN MCGRAW FAMILY TO ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP WITH "LITTLE KIDS ROCK," WHICH WILL BRING MUSIC EDUCATION AND INSTRUMENTS TO SCHOOL KIDS IN TEN MAJOR CITIES

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dr. Phil Foundation today launches Little Kids Rock Across America with a $500,000 donation designed to restore, revitalize and enhance musical programs in schools in 10 cities across the country. The program brings music education to schoolchildren from grades K through 12 in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Tampa, and two additional cities to be named by the end of 2009. The announcement was made by the Dr. Phil Foundation and its partner Little Kids Rock during today's taping of DR. PHIL. This episode is scheduled for broadcast Thursday, December 10 (check local listings).

Joining Dr. Phil McGraw at the taping today were some of rock's top musicians in Mike Einziger (Incubus), Zachary Merrick (All Time Low) and Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers). Jordan McGraw, musician, composer and youngest son of Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw, also performed with a group of schoolchildren who are part of Little Kids Rock. The Foundation is a McGraw family mission, and Jordan, who has written theme music for DR. PHIL, will act as the Foundation's ambassador to Little Kids Rock Across America.

"Little Kids Rock approached the Dr. Phil Foundation in search of a meaningful way to put music into the lives of children who need it. With the help of this great organization, the Foundation has created a program designed to expand what they have been doing so effectively, one guitar, one school district and one volunteer teacher at a time," Dr. Phil McGraw stated. "I'm passionate about music, and I have often said that when kids reach a certain age, they need to belong to something. I would much rather they choose a band or a choir than a gang. I am so proud that with this Foundation program Little Kids Rock Across America, we will be able to give kids a real opportunity, and the right outlet for their passion - and the gangs won't win by default." Dr. Phil added: "David Wish had a dream, and he made it real. I am proud that with his help, Little Kids Rock Across America will be teaching kids and their mentors what the power of music can really do to change who they are."

"Dr. Phil's passion and vision dovetails perfectly with our history of bringing music to children," David Wish, CEO and founder of Little Kids Rock, said. "This is an extraordinary opportunity to partner and make a real difference in the lives of thousands of kids. With the creation of Little Kids Rock Across America, we will be training more teacher volunteers and reaching more kids in more classrooms who would never have had opportunity to play music in an economy where arts programs are evaporating."

A CD featuring some of the schoolchildren's original compositions was distributed to the press and is available on the Little Kids Rock website (www.littlekidsrock.org). In addition, Fender, the world's leading guitar manufacturer is a major corporate sponsor of Little Kids Rock and has donated generously to the program.

About The Dr. Phil Foundation

The DPF, founded in 2003, is a nonprofit charitable organization committed to supporting organizations and programs that address the emotional, physical, mental and spiritual needs of children and families. For more information, go to www.drphilfoundation.org.

About Little Kids Rock

Little Kids Rock is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that transforms children's lives by restoring and revitalizing music education in underfunded public schools. Little Kids Rock was founded in San Francisco in 2002 by David Wish, an elementary school teacher who had grown frustrated with the lack of music education funding at his school. Today, Little Kids Rock is one of the leading nonprofit providers of free lessons and instruments to underserved children in US public schools, and has served more than 85,000 students at over 1,100 schools in 23 cities nationwide. Little Kids Rock Honorary Board Members include Bonnie Raitt, Slash, Paul Simon, B.B. King, Ziggy Marley and other famous friends in the music industry. More information can be found at: www.littlekidsrock.org.

Source: http://www.spinnermusic.co.uk/

Jack Rose, a renowned Philadelphia-based acoustic guitarist, has died of a heart attack at 38, the Philadelphia Daily News reports.

Rose was born in Virginia in 1971. His professional musical career began in the Richmond noise band Pelt, which formed in 1993. But Rose is best known for his solo work, which he began recording in the early 2000s, releasing numerous EPs and LPs on a number of different labels, most frequently VHF.

Rose, who also went by the moniker Dr. Ragtime, reached new levels of exposure in 2004, recording a Peel Session on BBC Radio 1, appearing on a limited compilation by Devendra Banhart called 'Golden Apples In The Sun,' and being named among The Wire's 50 Records of the Year with the release 'Raag Manifestos.' The following year, he released 'Kensington Blues,' which also received high marks from publications including Pitchfork and Dusted.

Rose was considered instrumental in bringing ragtime into the modern era and transforming it into something that was both referential and original. But as a self-taught player proficient on the guitar, including the 6-string, 12-string and lap steel, he brought a wide range of influences to his music.

Explaining his process in a 2007 interview, Rose said his favorite music was "anything that's pre 1942; Cajun, Country, Blues, Jazz all that stuff... that's my favorite kind of music." Rose also pointed to later musicians, such as John Fahey and Robbie Basho, as influences.

Touring extensively in the U.S. and Europe, Rose released live albums such as 'Jack Rose,' as well as his recorded work, which he preferred to put out on vinyl. Recently, he reunited with Pelt members for the album 'Dr. Ragtime and His Friends' and teamed up with Three Lobed Recordings for two critically acclaimed albums, 2008's 'I Do Play Rock and Roll' and 2009's 'The Black Dirt Sessions.'

In a video compilation tribute, Arthur Magazine writes that "everyone should know about Jack and his music. His style is like no other."

Source: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/

Twisted Sister rocker Eddie Ojeda has been discharged from hospital after undergoing emergency back surgery.

Bandmate Jay Jay French told The AP that Ojeda went to hospital to repair a ruptured disk that prevented him from sitting or standing.

Guitarist Dan McCafferty was called in as a last minute replacement for the group's Philadelphia tour date.

French said that Ojeda is feeling better and hopes to make Sunday night's performance at New York's Nokia Theater. But if he is unable, McCafferty is available to fill in.

"I talked to him this morning, and [Ojeda] says he feels much better. They want to see if he can stand for two hours and play. He plans to try it," French added.

Source: http://www.irishtimes.com/

LIAM CLANCY, who has died aged 74, was the last surviving member of the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, the band which revitalised Irish traditional music by blending showbusiness with the folk tradition. The group, described by Gay Byrne as the "most famous four Irishmen in the world", recorded 55 albums which sold in their millions around the world.

Liam Clancy later played in other formations before enjoying a successful solo career.

Bob Dylan said: "I never heard a singer as good as him ever. He was just the best ballad singer I ever heard in my life, still is probably."

Born in Carrick-on-Suir in 1935, he was one of the 11 children of Robert Joseph Clancy and Joanna McGrath. He was educated by the Christian Brothers.

Working in the insurance business in Dublin, he attended night classes at the National College of Art. He also enrolled in Brendan Smith's acting school, and had a small part in a production of The Playboy of the Western World which starred Siobhán McKenna and Cyril Cusack.

At home in Carrick-on-Suir he met Diane Hamilton Guggenheim, who visited the town to record his mother's singing. By now unemployed, he accompanied Hamilton on her travels through Ireland.

It was in 1955, when Hamilton visited Keady, that Clancy first met Tommy Makem son of the renowned singer Sarah Makem.

Clancy decided to try his luck as an actor in New York. His adventure began in Greenwich Village, where he stayed with his brother Paddy and his wife.

A small part in a stage production of The Countess Cathleen was followed by minor roles in short films and television dramas.

He began to frequent the White Horse Tavern in the Village, where Dylan Thomas famously had his last drink. There he rubbed shoulders with jazz and folk musicians, writers and aspiring actors like himself.

But it was difficult to make a living as an actor, and singing took over. Clancy was reunited with Makem in New York. Along with Makem, and his brothers Pat and Tom, in 1959 he recorded The Rising of the Moon , an album of republican ballads.

Now performing as a group, they built up a following through live performances in Boston, Chicago and New York. A 16-minute appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show on St Patrick's Day in 1961 brought them to national attention and they were signed to Columbia Records.

Under the shrewd management of Marty Erlichman and Lenny Rosenfeld, the Clancys went from strength to strength. Dressed in Aran sweaters and belting out songs with great gusto, they broke from the standard Irish-American repertoire, and introduced songs like Jug of Punch, Shoals of Herring and Leaving of Liverpool to young folk audiences.

They brought a new consciousness to Irish music and, in Clancy's words, made it "respectable again for so-called respectable people to sing working-class songs".

In 1973 he left the group to pursue a solo career. He moved to Calgary, Alberta, where he became an established television performer.

In 1974 Clancy and Makem were booked to perform separately in Cleveland, Ohio. Persuaded to do one set together, they soon afterwards became Makem and Clancy, recording touring as a duo until 1988. They made Eric Bogle's song And the Band played Waltzing Matilda their own. In the mid-1980s they teamed up with the other Clancys for a reunion tour.

It was a mixed blessing for Clancy. "One of the great things I discovered about working solo," he said in April 2007, "is that all my life I'd worked with other people, and I was looking over my shoulder. There had to be a certain amount of approval. There was always a pecking order, especially when you're working with family. But they all died off, and I got to the top of the pecking order, with nobody looking over my shoulder. There's a great sense of freedom about that."

After his brother Tom's death in 1990, he teamed up with his brothers Paddy and Bobby and nephew Robbie O'Connell, though he still performed shows with his Fayreweather Band as well as with the Phil Coulter Orchestra.

He almost stole the show in Martin Scorsese's award-winning documentary on Bob Dylan No Direction Home , made in 2004. He went on to feature in Alan Gilsenans documentary The Legend of Liam Clancy which won an Ifta award in 2007.

In recent years he ran a recording studio in Ring, Co Waterford, where he lived. His most recent album The Wheels of Life , released this year, features duets with Mary Black and Gemma Hayes along with tracks by Tom Paxton and Donovan.

He is survived by his wife Kim, daughters Fiona and Siobhan and sons Eben and Donal, as well as his daughter Anya from a previous relationship.

Liam Clancy: born September 2nd, 1935; died December 4th, 2009

Source: http://www.vintageguitar.com/

Singer/songwriter Neil Young has been nominated for two 2010 Grammy Awards. "Fork In the Road," the title track from his current album, has been nominated for "Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance." In addition, Archives Vol. 1 (1963-1972) has been nominated for "Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package."

Fork In The Road is an emotional response to the current social and ecological questions facing the world's population. Recorded in 2008 between tour dates, Young and his band were instantly sparked playing new songs like "Johnny Magic," "Fuel Line," "Light a Candle" and others, roaring through the sessions at top speed.

Young will be honored as the 2010 MusiCares Person of the Year at its 20th anniversary gala, January 29. The Grammy Awards will be handed out January 31.

Source: http://www.nme.com/

A movie about British band The Kinks is set to go into production.

Tentatively titled 'You Really Got Me', the film is set to explore the rocky relationship between bandmates and brothers Ray and Dave Davies.

Directed by the film and music video director Julien Temple, who has previously directed documentaries about Sex Pistols and Glastonbury, Ray Davies will be involved in the project.

"At the heart of it is the extraordinary love-hate relationship between these two brothers: love/hate, sibling rivalry is at the core," Julien Temple told Screen Daily. "I think it's a very rich social, cultural nexus around The Kinks. Their story is the untold story of all those big bands of the 1960s."

The cast for the film or a potential release date is yet to be announced.

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/

Dinosaur Jr's J Mascis has launched a new band, the gently named Sweet Apple. The group, featuring members of Cobra Verde and Witch, are to release their debut album on 30 March 2010.

Their formation was announced with suitably dramatic language, claiming to have "been born by accident and friendship – out of death, after a cross-country drive". Apparently, singer-guitarist John Petkovic went on a road trip after the death of his mother; he headed east from Cleveland, smoking cigarettes, not knowing where he was headed. Eventually, he met up with Mascis and Witch bassist Dave Sweetapple, both old friends. And Mascis told him to write some songs. "I tell people that I saved John's life by starting this band," he said. "But they don't believe me."

Petkovic enlisted guitarist Tim Parnin, his band-mate from Cobra Verde, and before long they were recording the album Love and Desperation in Cleveland and Massachusetts. "I hadn't even played guitar for months," Petkovic explained, "and then, out of the blue, there were all these songs." The record was mixed by Don Depew and long-time Dinosaur Jr producer John Agnello.

While the band's MySpace songs aren't currently working, they describe their sound as "a wide net [of] ... catchy power-pop, crushing rock and wounded ballads". According to a poster at the Sound Opinion message-board, Petkovic said in September that Sweet Apple have more of a "glam rock" vibe. However, we prefer the genre descriptions chosen by the from MySpace's default tags: "Powerpop / New Wave / Healing and Easy Listening," they wrote. Just as long as they play it loud.

Source: http://www.nme.com/

Artwork from The Clash's 'London Calling' album is set to be auctioned off later this month.

Made up of sketches, drawings and designs for the cover of the 1979 album, the auction is expected to fetch up to £70,000.

Sold by Bonhams, the auction will take place on December 16 during the same week the album celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Also up for sale are two rare signed photos from the band and along with the album artwork, will be on view in Bonhams' Knightsbridge, west London saleroom from December 13.

For more information please visit Bonhams.com.

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

The 62-year-old was arrested on Claygate High Street in Esher, Surrey, on Wednesday night by officers called to reports of a "domestic incident".

He was held at a police station overnight and bailed to return in January.

It is understood that Ivanova, 20, a cocktail waitress he met in a London club, claimed Wood attacked her during a row.

A Surrey Police spokesman said: "We can confirm that a 62-year-old man from Esher was arrested last night on suspicion of assault in connection with a domestic incident in Claygate High Street.

"He has this afternoon been released on bail until a date in January pending further inquiries."

Wood famously left Jo, his wife of 23 years, for Ivanova in July last year. They are said to have a tempestuous relationship.

Ivanova has denied accusations that she is a gold-digger in pursuit of Wood's £75 million fortune, saying last year: "You can't choose who you fall in love with. I fancy him because of the person he is. I don't think about his age or the fact he's a Rolling Stone."

Jo Wood was granted a divorce earlier this month on the grounds of her husband's adultery. She recently found fame of her own on the BBC One show Strictly Come Dancing.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/

Rare footage of Syd Barrett singing with Pink Floyd on the BBC One music show Top Of The Pops has been discovered after more than 40 years.

The damaged footage of the band playing See Emily Play has been restored and will now be screened for the first time since its initial 1967 broadcast.

Barrett, who died in 2006, left the group a year after it was recorded.

The British Film Institute will show the footage at its Missing Believed Wiped annual event on 9 January.

The Pink Floyd performance, on a one-inch, reel-to-reel tape, was discovered in a private collection.

It features two editions of TOTP from 6 and 27 July 1967, hosted by the late DJ Alan Freeman.

Steve Bryant, senior curator at the BFI, said: "This is an enormously significant discovery that will generate huge interest amongst music fans all over the world, even though the surviving material is in poor condition.

"Footage of Pink Floyd from this era is extremely rare."

BFI staff were "thrilled to have been given the opportunity to restore this recording, as much as has been possible, so that people can get a sense of this legendary appearance", he added.

TV recordings were often dumped or wiped in the 1960s and 1970s due to tape storage issues.

Source: http://www.nme.com/

Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck have announced details of three North American shows next February.

The legendary guitarists, both former members of The Yardbirds, will play New York's Madison Square Garden on February 18, before heading to Canada for shows in Toronto and Montreal.

Tickets for the Toronto show go on sale this Friday (December 4), and Montreal the following day (December 5). New York tickets will be available from December 12.

Preceding the tour the duo are also set to play two shows at London's O2 Arena on February 13 and 14.

Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck will play the following:

New York, NY, Madison Square Garden (February 18)
Toronto, ON, Air Canada Centre (21)
Montreal, QC, Bell Centre (22)

Ronnie is one of the classiest guys in Rock and Roll. We wish you well Ronnie!


www.sleazeroxx.com



Ronnie James Dio Diagnosed With Stomach Cancer Ronnie James Dio's wife and manager Wendy has revealed that the legendary metal singer has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. Earlier this month Dio, who is known for his work with Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell and his solo career, cancelled his European tour after becoming ill.

Wendy states, "Ronnie has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. We are starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic. After he kills this dragon, Ronnie will be back on stage, where he belongs, doing what he loves best, performing for his fans.

Thanks to all the friends and fans around the world that have sent well wishes. This has really helped to keep his spirit up.

Long Live Rock and Roll, Long Live Ronnie James Dio"

Labels: Guitar News Daily, Ronnie James Dio

Source : http://www.guardian.co.uk/

Pete Doherty was dragged off stage at a festival in Germany this weekend, after he began singing the controversial first stanza of Das Deutschlandlied, also known as The Song of Germany. The opening verse, beginning with the words "Deutschland über alles", is often considered a Nazi anthem.

The Babyshambles frontman was performing at Munich's on3 festival, organised by Bayerischer Rundfunk radio. Doherty was not originally scheduled to perform, according to Der Spiegel, but although "clearly drunk" was able to talk his way on stage. "With a quiet voice, he sang 'Deutschland, Deutschland über alles' four times," according to Rudi Kuffner, a festival spokesman. "Then the audience booed him so loudly that he had to start another song."

Doherty reportedly played five more songs before he was asked to leave by an organiser. He threw his microphone at her, according to the Munich TZ newspaper, and stormed off.

In a message posted to the Sky News website, Doherty's spokesperson said the former Libertines singer "was unaware of the controversy surrounding the German national anthem and he deeply apologises if he has caused any offence".

Although the third stanza of Das Deutschlandlied is now Germany's national anthem, singing the first stanza is generally a demonstration of far-right sympathies. Beginning with the lyrics "Deutschland, Deutschland über alles (Germany, Germany above all)", this section was a fixture of Nazi ceremony.

This isn't Doherty's first brush with far-right propaganda. The singer raised a fascist salute as a joke at a concert in Spain last year, and the Libertines were criticised for a 2004 song, Arbeit Macht Frei, a phrase that was emblazoned above the entrances to concentration camps including Auschwitz. Doherty is allegedly part-Jewish.

Source: http://mog.com/

Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse, through Eagle Rock Entertainment has released a new studio album by the Steve Morse Band, 'Out Standing In Their Field', released in the U.S. on November 17.

Morse, who got his start in the Dixie Dregs in the 1970s, has enjoyed a fruitful career, earning himself a reputation as a “musician’s musician.” He’s spent the last sixteen years shredding for the legendary Deep Purple, in addition to fronting his own band. The release of Out Standing In Their Field is the 12th album to date for The Steve Morse Band.

On this entirely instrumental album, Morse joins forces with bassist Dave LaRue and drummer Van Romaine to pound out un-tethered creativity. A multi-faceted blend of Morse’s influences, Out Standing In Their Field is a diverse sound spectrum, twisting together elements of rock, country, jazz, funk and classical. Unencumbered by lyrics, Morse’s guitar acts as a wailing, exploring siren, channeling emotion and raw power through the language of riffs. In addition to the ten brand new tracks boasted on Out Standing In Their Field, the band threw in an extra treat: a live recording of their song “Rising Power.” This bonus track invokes the goosebump-inducing power the Steve Morse Band conjures on stage.

See http://www.stevemorse.com/ for more info.

Source: http://www.straitstimes.com/

There was shouting and wild cheering inside Singapore's Changi Prison Complex on Tuesday afternoon but no one seemed to mind.

The 40 inmates gathered in the prison's Performing Arts Training Centre's auditorium were after all being treated to a peformance by American rock guitarist Zakk Wylde.

Mr Wylde, 42, famed for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and his own band Black Label Society, put on a half-hour show where he riffed a meshwork of guitar solos, even taking questions from his audience.

Decked out in his characteristic black leather jacket, jeans and boots, he also gave inmates pointers on how to be good musicians.

'You need to find someone who's better than you to show you the basics,' said Wylde who thrilled the group with his mastery, including a few searing leads off Van Halen's Eruption.

On speaking to the inmates, he later told The Straits Times: 'It seemed like the right thing to do since my first gig with Ozzy was in a prison.

Source: http://acn.liveauctioneers.com/

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A 10-carat diamond ring that Elvis Presley took from his hand and gave to a fan during a 1975 concert will sell Dec. 6 at a catalog auction to be conducted by Affiliated Auctions. Internet live bidding will be provided by LiveAuctioneers.com.

A unique and original piece of Elvis Presley-worn memorabilia, the ring was given to the consignor, Lloyd Perry, by Presley during a concert in Asheville, N.C.

The estimate for the unique ring is $150,000-$300,000.

Source: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/

Tim Wheeler is rarely seen without his Gibson Flying V guitar in Ash’s music videos.

But the band’s frontman has now donated his iconic instrument to the Oh Yeah music centre in Belfast.

The Downpatrick rocker, who lives in New York, was back home last week to play the Spring and Airbrake in Belfast at the end of their A-Z tour with Rick McMurray and Mark Hamilton.

And he popped into the music centre in the Cathedral Quarter to add his Flying V to the growing list of memorabilia also on display there.