Sunday, September 22, 2024
Donate
Home Blog Page 937

Marvin Gaye Was Killed 35 Years Ago Today, But He’s Still The Man with “Lost Album” Finally Released in Its Entirety

Roger Friedman
-
0
Marvin Gaye Was Killed 35 Years Ago Today, But He’s Still The Man with “Lost Album” Finally Released in Its Entirety

Marvin Gaye was killed 35 years ago today. But he’s “still the man” as Motown has just released “You’re the Man,” his “lost album.” This collection was recorded in 1972 between the successes of “What’s Going On” and what turned out to be “Let’s Get it On.”

“You’re the Man” has been released before, at least some of it, in various incarnations. It was splintered off into box sets and b sides and Motown collections. But now it’s available it in its entirety. You can see why Marvin shelved it. Despite amazing vocals and terrific songs, it lacked cohesion as an album. After the high of “What’s Going On,” this album was pedestrian. There was no theme. In the past it would have sufficed. But to Marvin it must have sounded like a step backward.

But dip into “You’re the Man” anywhere and you’ll find gold. “The World is Rated X” is masterful, and could have fit into “What’s Going On” easily. “Piece of Clay,” had Marvin lived long enough to tour in his older years, would have been a show stopper. “You Are That Special One” is a slammin’ Motown masterpiece. “I’m Going Home” is Marvin at his funky best.

I can’t wait to have the physical CD in my car.

Many have tried to make Marvin Gaye movies without luck. I hope someone tries again, but just the Sixties through this period, when Marvin was a shining star. He deserves a polished legacy, and to be revered forever.

RIP Shelley Lazar, Queen of Rock and Roll Tickets, Age 69, the Mother Hen of Rock Stars, Fans, Groupies, Press

Roger Friedman
-
0
RIP Shelley Lazar, Queen of Rock and Roll Tickets, Age 69, the Mother Hen of Rock Stars, Fans, Groupies, Press

Shelley Lazar was the mother hen of rock and roll. She worked her way up and made a business out of ticketing rock and roll concerts, especially Paul McCartney’s. I am sad to report that she died this morning from cancer at age 69.

Everyone loved Shelley. When there was a big show she was there to take care of you. She loved the music and she loved the artists. There will never be anyone else like her. In 2008 she sold her company to Ticketmaster but that didn’t mean she went away. She loved the business too much. She took care of everyone: fans, groupies, press.

I always worried about Shelley. Back in June 2011 we were at a performance of “Spider Man: Turn off the Dark” on Broadway. Shelley fell on the stairs coming down the aisle of the American Airlines Theater and broke her wrist. I tried to catch her, so did a couple of other people. She got up and brushed herself off before she was taken by ambulance to a hospital.

Everyone will say this: Shelley has a VIP ticket in heaven. Yes. But she had one with all the people who knew her. Her death is a real loss, coming in a week of losses. She will really really be missed.

photo courtesy of Richard Kerris

Rapper Nipsey Hussle, 33, Shot Dead in Front of His L.A. Clothing Store After Tweeting “Having strong enemies is a blessing”

Roger Friedman
-
0
Rapper Nipsey Hussle, 33, Shot Dead in Front of His L.A. Clothing Store After Tweeting “Having strong enemies is a blessing”

Rapper Nipsey Hussle, age 33, is dead. Ermias Davidson Asghedom was shot dead in front his clothing store in South Los Angeles. A short time before, he Tweeted: “Having strong enemies is a blessing.”

Evidently, not.

Asghedom picked his name as a twist on Nipsey Russell, the late great comic. But there’s no laughing here. Russell was long time gang member. He was also a Grammy nominee, for what that’s worth.

He had a child with actress Lauren London. Before Nipsey, she dated Lil Wayne, who’s spent a lot of time in jail.

And the beats go on.

Matthew McConaughey Going the Way of Johnny Depp? “Beach Bum” is Lowest Opening of Career, Latest Box Office Failure

Roger Friedman
-
0
Matthew McConaughey Going the Way of Johnny Depp? “Beach Bum” is Lowest Opening of Career, Latest Box Office Failure

It’s been five and a half years since Matthew McConaughey starred in “Dallas Buyers Club” and won an Oscar. It was not a hit movie, only making $27 million. But vindicated McConaughey as an actor and instigated the phrase “McConaissance.” The quirky Texan actor was on a roll. He also had a show stopping appearance that year in “Wolf of Wall Street,” which added to the illusion.

This weekend, MM starred in Harmony Korine’s “Beach Bum.” They made $1.6 million total, a total throwaway. And not the first nor the last. McConaughey has jumped on a train occupied by Johnny Depp and Nicolas Cage. He has name value as a celebrity, but none has an actor. His movies are all flops in one way or another.

Of course, nothing will beat “The Sea of Trees,” but that was only released into 2 theaters. Of all MM’s wide or semi-wide openings, “Beach Bum” is the worst. But do recall “WHite Boy Rick,” “Serenity,” “The Dark Tower,” and “Gold.” And we shan’t omit “Free State of Jones.” MM’s only actual hit was “Magic Mike” in 2012, which crossed the $100 million mark, but was also an ensemble piece.

This is why we see MM in Lincoln car commercials, which have paid the bills and turned him into the Ricardo Montalban of our generation (“deep Corinthian leather”).  Is there a way out of this? How about a reboot of “Crocodile Dundee”?

Soap Opera Chaos as Scientologist Actress Michelle Stafford Exits “General Hospital” As Show Does Cult Storyline

Roger Friedman
-
0
Soap Opera Chaos as Scientologist Actress Michelle Stafford Exits “General Hospital” As Show Does Cult Storyline

The world of soap operas aka daytime dramas is really, really crazy. Only the movies “SoapDish” and “Tootsie” have ever addressed the madness.

Now “General Hospital” actress Michelle Stafford is leaving that show and returning to “The Young and the Restless” after a not so successful stint on the former show. She was on the latter for 16 years.

Stafford is an avowed member of the Cult of Scientology, which “General Hospital” knew when she joined them. (She isn’t the only “Y&R” actress deep in Scientology. So is Sharon Case, who’s been on the show for eons.)

But here’s the soapy twist: a few months ago, “General Hospital” started a story about a cult called Dawn of Day. (Dawn of Day, not coincidentally, is a is an 1881 book by the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche that would drive Scientology creator L. Ron Hubbard crazy.)

The soap cult is very similar to Scientology: members are being roped in to pay big fees for “classes,” they have a charismatic leader who’s insinuating himself into various characters’ lives. This isn’t the first time “General Hospital” has attacked Scientology. For several years they featured a clinic for the criminally insane called Miscavige, obviously named for David Miscavige, the real life Napoleonic leader of Scientology. There are no coincidences here.

As the “GH” cult story grew, sources say, Stafford’s appearances on the went into decline. She has rarely been on screen as Dawn of Day was put on the front burner. Now Stafford is exiting “GH” over contract negotiations. Could “GH” have been using the Dawn of Day story to oust Stafford? It sure seems like it.

Stafford’s return to “Young and the Restless” means the much more talented actress who succeeded her five years ago, Gina Tognoni, is out. Tognoni was not in a cult, but she did win an Emmy award in 2017. She should really go to prime time TV at this point, she’s too good for this stuff. Stafford, meanwhile, will be reunited with Case, who’s been in Scientology a long time.

Only in Hollywood, kids, only in Hollywood.

 

Keith Richards Responds to Mick Jagger Illness, Rolling Stones Tour Postponement: “Things need to be taken care of …. Mick, we are always there for you!”

Roger Friedman
-
0
Keith Richards Responds to Mick Jagger Illness, Rolling Stones Tour Postponement: “Things need to be taken care of …. Mick, we are always there for you!”

Keith Richards has responded on Twitter to news of Mick Jagger’s illness and the postponement of the Rolling Stones’ upcoming tour.

Richards writes: “A big disappointment for everyone but things need to be taken care of and we will see you soon. Mick, we are always there for you!”

Ironically, it’s Richards whose health has always been called into question, not Jagger. Richards, whose love of drink and drug is legendary, has somehow–and wonderfully– managed to keep going despite all odds. It was Jagger who was into health and well being.

The Stones have also escaped any major health issues up til now, which is certainly against the norm for men of their ages.

Jagger’s announcement today, and even Richards’response, suggests that Mick may be suffering from any number of common illnesses for a man of his actual age (75). Knowing Mick he’s in New York getting treatment. Everyone is hoping for a quick and painless recovery, whatever the problem.

Meanwhile, Richards is celebrating the 30th anniversary of his solo album, “Talk is Cheap.” There are new anniversary editions available on amazon, on the Stones website, and on keithrichards.com. Maybe Keith will go out with his group in lieu of the Stones tour!

LGBTQ Boycott of Beverly Hills Hotel is Revived After Celebs Like Miley Cyrus, Kristen Stewart Were Unwittingly Guests at Recent Events

Roger Friedman
-
0
LGBTQ Boycott of Beverly Hills Hotel is Revived After Celebs Like Miley Cyrus, Kristen Stewart Were Unwittingly Guests at Recent Events

In 2014, the Sharia Law that promised to not just torture but kill LGBTQ people under the Sultan of Brunei brought an immediate protest of the Beverly Hills Hotel. All big Hollywood events were cancelled, and if celebrities were seen at the Polo Lounge or staying at the hotel they were heavily criticized.

But it time, the boycott softened. Events were being booked there again. Short memories meant a slow coming back to the beloved Polo Lounge.

Last month, London publicist Charles Finch moved his annual pre-Oscar Chanel dinner there. Avowed LGBTQ friendly celebs Miley Cyrus and Kristen Stewart were guests. They’d either forgotten about the Brunei connection or didn’t know it. In retrospect they’re not going to be too pleased considering starting next Wednesday, if they showed up in Brunei, they’d be stoned to death– or worse.

Fashion publication The Daily Front Row just hosted an event at the BHH on March 19th. Celebs included Lady Gaga, Kate Hudson, and Busy Phillips, not to mention lots of famous models. All of them will now disavow having been at the Pink Hotel, no doubt.

Other recent BHH events included a fashion show by E! TV’s Giuliani Rancic, whose husband, Bill Rancic, the first winner of “The Apprentice,” has remained mum about former boss Donald Trump.

If a new boycott takes root this week, the BHH will have more headaches, as will sponsors of events that take place on its historic grounds.

Elton John Joins George Clooney Calling for Boycott of Posh Hotels Owned Sultan of Brunei Over Sharia Law Aimed to Kill LGBTQ People

Roger Friedman
-
0
Elton John Joins George Clooney Calling for Boycott of Posh Hotels Owned Sultan of Brunei Over Sharia Law Aimed to Kill LGBTQ People

Elton John has joined George Clooney calling for a boycott of all hotels and properties owned by the Sultan of Brunei. That’s because beginning April 3, the small but oil rich country will punish homosexual sex and adultery with death.

Beginning Wednesday, any individuals found guilty of the offenses will be stoned to death, according to a new penal code. The punishment will be “witnessed by a group of Muslims.” Clooney called for the boycott earlier this week in an essay.

Elton John and David Furnish now join him. They run the prestigious Elton John AIDS Foundation and carry a lot of clout in popular culture. Watch for more celebrities to join the boycott. (Elton’s statement below.)

Previously a boycott was called of the Sultan’s hotels including the Beverly Hills Hotel and the Dorchester in London. For some time beginning in 2014, the boycott crippled business at the hotels. They lost a lot of business as Hollywood events ceased being held, for example, at the BHH. In time, though, the boycott lost momentum. In the last year, the BHH welcomed celebrities back to the Polo Lounge. Recently, Chanel sponsored an Oscar weekend dinner hosted by Charles Finch for celebrities including Miley Cyrus and Kristen Stewart, two people who’d be horrified if they knew the Brunei connection.

But the imminent implementation of such a horror as the Sharia Law to the people of Brunei is going to trigger new boycotts.

Here is Elton’s statement, on point as always:

“I believe that love is love and being able to love as we choose is a basic human right. Wherever we go, my husband David and I deserve to be treated with dignity and respect – as do each and every one of the millions of LGBTQ+ people around the world. I commend my friend, #GeorgeClooney, for taking a stand against the anti-gay discrimination and bigotry taking place in the nation of #Brunei – a place where gay people are brutalized, or worse – by boycotting the Sultan’s hotels.

:Our hearts go out to the good, hardworking employees of properties owned by the Sultan of Brunei, many of whom we know to be gay. We must send a message, however we can, that such treatment is unacceptable. That’s why David and I have long refused to stay at these hotels and will continue to do so. We hope you will join us in solidarity.

Here are the hotels to boycott: The Dorchester, London 45 Park Lane, London Coworth Park, UK The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills Hotel Bel-Air, Los Angeles Le Meurice, Paris Hotel Plaza Athenee, Paris Hotel Eden, Rome Hotel Principe di Savoia, Mi Elton xx”

UPDATE: Disney Struggles with Live Action Movies as “Dumbo” Disappoints with $45 Mil Weekend, Far Below Expectations

Roger Friedman
-
0
UPDATE: Disney Struggles with Live Action Movies as “Dumbo” Disappoints with $45 Mil Weekend, Far Below Expectations

UPDATE SUNDAY: “Dumbo” earned just $45 million over the weekend, far below expectations.

EARLIER: It was only a few months ago that Disney crash landed “Nutcracker and the Four Realms” at the box office. A monumental failure, “Nutcracker” was a live action film that took in just $54 million in the US, $173 million worldwide.

Now “Dumbo,” the live action version of the famed animated film, is a dismal disappointment at the box office. It made just $15 million on Friday including $2 mil Thurs previews.

“Aladdin” comes next on May 24, with some very bad buzz and poor reaction to its trailers and posters.

But this is Disney, number 1 in the market. But it’s number 1 thanks to Marvel, Pixar, and LucasFilms. And Disney animation. But when it comes to making movies with people, for some reason Disney stumbles. This was certainly demonstrated with “Mary Poppins Returns,” which was not the blockbuster everyone hoped for.

Disney has closed its deal to buy 20th Century Fox now, so maybe those films and filmmakers will cure the problem. Certainly Fox Searchlight will provide them with indie hits. But Disney immediately shut down Fox 2000, which would have filled the void they have in big studio comedies and dramas.

Coming next after “Aladdin” is the live action “Lion King.” But that’s already caused consternation as it seems to be a frame by frame retelling of the animated film and not a whole new take. We’ll cross our paws and hope for the best!

Shock: Mick Jagger is Human, Cancels All Upcoming Rolling Stones Tour Dates Due to Mystery Illness, Promises to Be Back on Stage Soon

Roger Friedman
-
0
Shock: Mick Jagger is Human, Cancels All Upcoming Rolling Stones Tour Dates Due to Mystery Illness, Promises to Be Back on Stage Soon

What a shock: Mick Jagger is human. I am kidding, but Jagger has always been the picture of health. But now he says the Stones North America-Canada tour must be postponed on doctor’s orders.

Jagger writes on Twitter: “I’m so sorry to all our fans in America & Canada with tickets. I really hate letting you down like this. I’m devastated for having to postpone the tour but I will be working very hard to be back on stage as soon as I can. Once again, huge apologies to everyone.”

There’s no other information on Jagger’s illness. Of course, everyone is hopeful that whatever it is (prostate?) is healed quickly and comfortably. At 76, Mick has been a health nut. He never did drugs, never smoked in any big way, and has exercised like crazy.

Mick, wild horses won’t keep you away. Sending the best thoughts and (I know everyone hates this) prayers.

1...936937938...2,127Page 937 of 2,127

Hollywood to the Hudson

Company

Trending

Categories

© Showbiz411.com