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Willie Nelson opened his home in Luck, Texas over the weekend, to host a get-together for gubernatorial candidate, author/musician Kinky Friedman. Running on the independent ticket, Friedman's campaign slogan is "Friedman's Just Another Word For Nothing Left To Lose."
The Houston Chronicle story is right here.
Sounds like a good time was had by all! And they raised a little moolah too!
During the dark days of Katrina, Harry Connick, Jr. became an familiar face on national TV, as he waded through the flooded streets of his hometown, trying to assist his neighbors, while Dubya, Brownie and the rest of the crew did whatever it was that wasn't working.
Now, in happier mode, Harry Connick Jr. narrates the new holiday special "The Happy Elf," due to premiere Dec. 2 on NBC. Based on a song from his 2003 album "Harry for the Holidays," the hour-long animated story of Eubie the Elf features a score written and performed by Connick, as well as two new songs.
"The Happy Elf," which also features the voices of Carol Kane, Lewis Black, Mickey Rooney and Rob Paulsen, will be released on DVD Dec. 6 via Anchor Bay Entertainment.
TheHappyElf.com boasts a sneak preview of the special, holiday games and a contest with a weekly $500 prize and a chance to meet Connick at an upcoming concert.
It looks very cute. And a nice addition to the rest of the holiday viewing. Not, not Harry! The Happy Elf! Pre-order here. Or make that drive to Walmart.
In keeping with the ghoulish season, Forbes has published a list of the top-earning dead people - though we know Elvis isn't really dead. He's the only one on the list who showed up on a pumpkin, though!
Happy Hallowe'en!
Two of the greatest rock promoters ever, Bill Graham and Chet Helms, were sons of San Francisco. Unfortunately, both these men are now gone - Bill in a helicopter crash 15 years ago, and Chet earlier this year, after suffering a stroke.
If you're going to San Francisco, there'll be a free concert in Golden Gate Park this weekend, in memory of Chet. Dubbed Chet's Tribal Stomp, it'll feature members of the Jefferson Starship, The Chalatans, Eric Burdon, Dan Hicks, Country Joe McDonald, Ramblin’ Jack Elliot, Canned Heat, Blue Cheer, Vince Welnick, and counter-culture icon Wavy Gravy. October 30, Speedway Meadows in Golden Gate Park. Free.
For some reason, the latest Stones CD, "A Bigger Bang," was a bit of a fizzle in the US. Personally, I liked it and so did Europe, but the numbers were disappointing.
Never known to let the moss gather, and joining a growing trend, Mick and the lads are putting out a collection of rare recordings, to be sold at the bazillion Starbucks in your neighborhood, as well as at regular record stores. "Rarities 1971-2003" will be released on November 22 in the US. Read all about it!
Eric, Jack and Ginger opened their three-night stand at Madison Square Garden on October 24, and wind the thing up tonight.
The show went well, according to the New York Times. For those who couldn't afford a) a trip last May to London, and b) $300+ for a decent ticket to the New York show, there's a DVD available of the May concert in London.
If you feel inclined to make a purchase, please visit our Amazon thingy on the left!
I don't know about you, but when I think of country music, the very next thing I don't think of is New York City. But the Country Music Awards (the 39th) are coming to the Big Apple this year.
Line up so far: Alison Krauss and Union Station, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans, Faith Hill, Alan Jackson, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, George Strait, Keith Urban, Gretchen Wilson and Lee Ann Womack. The hosts - Brooks & Dunn,
For a touch of local color, Brooklyn's own Paul Simon and Joisey boy Jon Bon Jovi will be doing a song or two - Paul will duet with Willie Nelson (and present the Song of The Year award), and JBJ will hook up vocally with Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland. November 15 from Madison Square Garden, airing on CBS.
In a quirky choice, the show'll also include an appearance by James Gandolfini. What does this mean? The Mob has taken over country music? We know Tony would never sing!!
A couple of legal-type stories today.
First, Phil Spector, seen here apparently going for the 'not guilty by way of insanity' verdict by way his personal appearance. As you probably remember, Phil is going on trial for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson, who was found shot dead in the foyer of Phil's mansion after a hectic night in various Hollywood watering holes. Phil's lawyer, Brian Cutler (his most famous client is the former husband of Victoria Gotti) is moving to strike a statement that Phil allegedly made to the police when they arrived at the scene, because Phil was in withdrawal from about seven prescription drugs. The hearing will start this week, and the trial looks good to go in January. This promises to be a real lulu! Billboard story here.
The tragic shooting of Darrell "Dimebag" Abbott, leader of Pantera/Damageplan, at the Alrosa Villa club last December shocked the entire music community. The report has now been released. It appears that the police officer who shotgunned the murderer, 25 year old Nathan Gale, may have stopped a slaughter of much wider scope. More here.
Back when I was a flack, one of my favorite parts of the job was the photos. A great photo, and no need to sink in a swelter of adjectives. Here's three from last week.
Aye-yi-yi! Marc Anthony at the Latin Music Awards in Santo Domingo. If you've got it - flaunt it!
