Backstreet Boy AJ McLean Marries

You know you’ve outgrown your boy band status when you’re willing to give up the gaggles of groupies for marital life. Backstreet Man Boy, A.J. McLean is the most recent ex-heartthrob to make the vows. McLean and his long-time partner Rochelle Deanna Karidis, tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at the Beverly Hills Hotel over the weekend.

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New Music Friday – Howie D.

Hot off the heels of the wildly popular NKOTBSB tour, Howie D. is readying his solo album to be released in November. Check out the music video for Howie’s first single titled “100”.

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Another Boy Band Reunion!

Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block have gotten back together. They’re even going on tour together later this year. I loved boy bands! NKOTB, NSYNC, LFO, BSB, O-Town… If you are a fan of boy bands, I’ve got good news for you. It looks like another group is getting back together – The guys from O-Town have decided it’s time to get back into the studio and make some music – and they’ve already recorded some music. But unfortunately, not every member is on board.

Per TMZ:

Sources close to the band tell TMZ … Erik-Michael, Dan, Trevor and Jacob are back in the studio … sans one member who just didn’t feel like getting the band back together — Ashley Parker-Angel.

We’re told the guys — who were all plucked out of obscurity on the very first “Making the Band” in 2000 — have been kicking around the idea of a reunion for a while … and have spent almost a year trying to get Ashley on board.

But a few weeks ago — when it became clear Ashley wasn’t going to change his mind — the guys decided to officially move forward without him … and are now trying to work out some tour dates.

Now can we get an NSync reunion? How amazing would that be?

Click here to find out why Madison quit ‘The Bachelor.’

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Images Via: WENN.com

Tino Coury’s ‘Diary’

For multi-instrumentalist Tino Coury, it all starts with the music. “When I write a song,” he says, “I want a beat you can dance to, a great track–but also a story. There has to be a heart to it.”

The serious buzz surrounding Coury began in May when his debut single “Diary” landed on over 50 Top 40 and Rhythmic stations in its first week of release, an achievement unrivaled in recent history by any new artist. Then came Coury’s striking debut video for the track directed by Roman White who has created videos for the biggest names in music today such as Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and Justin Bieber.

The Pittsburgh bred, 22-year-old singer-songwriter-producer has been earning fans all over the country by performing on national TV and at shows with Jason Derulo (at the sold-out The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza), Drake, Train, Iyaz, New Boyz, Mike Posner, Kelly Rowland, Cartel, Kris Allen, and the Backstreet Boys, among others. Now based in Los Angeles, Tino plans to release additional singles in 2010 and a full-length album in 2011 via Eleventh Records.

Billboard magazine, in a review of “Diary,” took note of Coury’s mix of musicality and story-based lyrics: “Despite its themes of betrayal, dissatisfaction and letdown for its lead singer, the song’s sticking point is an irresistibly buoyant beat that should keep listeners tuned in and dancing.”

Get to know Tino face-to-face in a new video blog above where he recaps his summer tour and updates fans on his forthcoming debut album. Be sure to keep up with him on Twitter and Facebook for daily updates and exclusive content.

Click here to see what rapper was recently arrested in a N.C. airport.

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Images Via: TotalAssault

New Music Friday – Mindless Behavior

Mindless Behavior is a dynamic group of young men armed with limitless talent, drive, energy and a fearless passion for music and performing. Barely into their teens, has the quartet’s energetic fusion of pop, hip hop, and R&B quite simply had the potential to transform the entire musical landscape as we know it. Comprised of four spirited 13 year old boys – Prodigy, Roc Royal, Ray Ray and Princeton – Mindless Behavior employs an insane sleek and futuristic fashion style, epic dance moves, and global-ready pop songs. Their sound resonates with lush harmonies and messages that speak to listeners of all ages.

Prodigy was named after his ability to quickly master all new things related to dancing and playing music. Ray Ray came up under the ranks of famed Los Angeles battle dancer Tommy The Clown. Roc Royal, who began rapping at eight years old, also honed his skills in dance crews. And Princeton got his start at the age of four, appearing in television commercials for Skechers, McDonalds and Nike, as well as music videos.

The showstoppers deliver high levels of energy during their sets, singing, rapping and dancing with stage presence comparable to the greats. Teen girls, in particular, went wild when the guys hit the stage for their tour of Los Angeles high schools and opening sets with the Backstreet Boys (This Is Us 2010) and Justin Bieber (Pop-con 2010).

Their movement is redefining the word mindless and sending a powerful, much needed message to youth. Mindless Behavior is a new, effortless way of thinking that promotes individuality. “If you’re confident and not afraid to stand out, you’re mindless. If you get good grades in school, you’re mindless. If you express yourself, you’re mindless.” commented the group.


Mindless Behavior – My Girl
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The music supports their message and the mindless lifestyle. Mindless Behavior’s forthcoming album, #1 Girl, takes on teenage love in explosive party records, fun mid-tempos, and introspective ballads. The album’s first single “My Girl” is a bubbling, infectious track produced by Walter Millsap (Beyoncé, Timbaland). “The song is about how much our girl loves us – she texts us all the time, sending us a 1-4-3,” said Princeton. The driving energy of “Ms. Right” heats up the dance floors with another offering from Millsap, who also produced standout “1st Crush.” On the piano-driven ballad “Future,” the young romantics envision all that they’ll be able to do take care of their girls once they’re old enough. They team up with superstar producer Polow Da Don for “I Love You.”

The Conjunction Productions team and Streamline Records head Vincent Herbert came up with the concept of the group in 2008, and Mindless Behavior was formed at a Los Angeles based audition hosted by Conjunction, a teaming of Walter Millsap, Keisha Gamble, songwriter Candice Nelson and choreographer David Scott. (Gamble and Scott helped discover B2K.) Prodigy, Princeton, Roc, and Ray Ray were immediately picked after displaying their talents. After two years of artist development, Herbert, who also discovered Lady Gaga and has executive-produced all of her music, introduced Mindless Behavior to IGA Chairman Jimmy Iovine, who immediately confirmed the deal.

Even though the members of Mindless Behavior are only 13, their sound is universal and appeals to the masses. “I think everyone can relate to our songs,” Princeton said. “It’s either a ten year old boy looking for ‘Ms. Right’ or a 60 year old man looking for ‘Mrs. Right.’”

Prepare for Mindless Behavior to join the ranks of the legendary young male groups that preceded them—The Jackson 5, New Edition, N’Sync, and B2K.

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Click here to see JoJo’s new video for the song “In The Dark.”

Hollywood Dame Exclusive Interview: Lolene

Before she had recorded a note of her debut album, Lolene had already chosen its inspired title: The Electrick Hotel. “I call it The Electrick Hotel because when you put the album on, you’re my guest. I’m going to take care of you,” says the British singer, songwriter, and performer. “You’re invited to come and stay a while in my world, which I see as like a hotel where each song is a room that captures a different part of my personality and expresses different emotions. So if you’re feeling happy, you can go to the penthouse and dance to ‘Sexy People.’ If you’re heartbroken, you can visit the first-floor and have a cry to ‘Beautiful Disaster.’”

Lolene began writing songs and singing backing vocals for trip-hop artist Martina Topley-Bird (known for her work with Tricky) and local drum-and-bass pioneer Roni Size. After completing school, she moved to London and fronted an all-girl pop vocal group signed to a development deal at BMG Records. She wrote all the group’s material and realized she had a knack for writing melodies and lyrics.

It was during this time in London that Lolene acquired her nickname “Miss Foo Foo,” bestowed on her by a friend who watched Lolene drool over expensive items she couldn’t afford as the two window-shopped on London’s swanky Kings Road. “’Miss Foo Foo’ is the name of my company as well as my naughty alter ego,” Lolene says. “She’s the heightened, fabulous, eccentric part of my personality — the girl who wants it all right now. She lives in a world of heartbreak and handbags. She’s a chaser of dreams.” Miss Foo Foo is boujis (a British expression meaning to be fancy or posh) — the type who hangs out in London’s chic, ultra-private nightclubs.

Glam as it may have been, the London scene wasn’t enough to contain someone as driven as Lolene. Armed with nothing but a suitcase and a demo CD, she moved to Hollywood in search of her big break. Based on Lolene’s songwriting talent, multi-platinum producer Jonathan “J.R.” Rotem signed her to his publishing label Beluga Heights/Sony ATV. She went to work collaborating with such heavy-hitters as Andreas Carlsson (Backstreet Boys, ’N Sync, Celine Dion), Christopher Rojas (Pink, Backstreet Boys, Joss Stone), Makeba Riddick (Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Beyonce), Evan Bogart (The Writing Camp), Danja (Britney Spears, Nelly Furtado, Timbaland), Harvey Mason Jr. (Underdogs), and Christina Milian, for whom Lolene penned the single “Diamonds” featuring Kanye West.

Recently, I had the chance to ask Lolene about things such as her music, goals, and musical inspirations. You can read about it below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I went to my first dance class at age 2 and since then I have been dancing, singing and performing in some way or another. I specifically remember listening to Mariah Carey and Kylie Minogue in my bedroom and realizing that this is what I wanted to do.

How did you break into the music industry?

I broke in through the back window, turned the nob and ran up the stairs! But seriously, I got my break through song-writing.

How would you describe the sound of your music, and what makes you feel like your album is different from the other artists in your genre?

I would describe my music as awkward universal pop. I make music to uplift and inspire people in some way. So there is definitely positive elements to my music. It’s also very electrosexual! But I don’t feel I’m in a position to describe how my music differs. I leave that to the good ears of my listeners.

What are some of your plans for promoting your album – do you plan on doing some touring?

Absolutely, I love to perform live, so you will definitely be catching me at a venue near you. I plan on being everywhere, including under your bed.

Musically speaking, what are some of your short term and long term goals you have lined out for yourself? What are your hopes for the upcoming year?

Universal pop domination and to continue making great music for the most amazing fans in the world.

Lyrically speaking, where do your song inspirations come from? Is it easy for you to sit down and write lyrics, or is it a bit of a challenge sometimes?

Writing lyrics comes naturally to me. i started as a poet and this is a gift I’ve been blessed with. I am truly inspired by tragedy and triumph and everything in between, I could literally write a song about anything, and I am really thankful for this gift.

Who are some of your musical interests and influences?

I am hugely influenced by Madonna, Kate Bush and Rick James. They are true showmen and entertainers. I also love Joan Collins and Cher. I really like music from the 90′s.

Who are some artists you’d like to work with?

Without a doubt Kate Bush. I would also really like to collaborate with Blondie, Ace of Base, Empire of the Sun and Prince.

What is the experience like to be out somewhere and be recognized by a fan?

It’s all still very new to me and I have to admit the first time did trip me out for a good minute. This is because you are in your own private world of creation for so long, like the studio or rehearsal room and so you forget there is a world out there sometimes. It can catch you off guard for sure. But I appreciate it and understand this is something I signed up for.

Besides music, what are some of your other interests and hobbies?

Food, I love to cook and eat. I am a total spa enthusiast also. And of course, cocktail mixologist!

Hollywood Dame Exclusive Interview – The McClymonts

The McClymonts have arrived in the US with their Australian Gold debut album, “Chaos and Bright Lights,” an Executive Music Group release to come Summer of 2010. Recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, the girls- Brooke, Sam and Mollie – had the privilege of flying from Australia to work with some of Nashville’s finest musicians and hit record producer Adam Anders (Music Producer for Fox TV’s Glee, Nick Lachey, Backstreet Boys, Shania Twain, Sinead O’Connor, Hannah Montana, Nick Jonas). All 12 tracks were co-written by the sisters with both Australian and American writers. The US debut single, “My Life Again,” was co-written with Adam Anders and hit producer/writer Nathan Chapman (Taylor Swift). Smash hits include “My Life Again,” “Save Yourself,” and “Favorite Boyfriend of The Year,” which saw the girls walk away with 4 CMAA ‘Best New Talent‘ and ‘Group Of The Year’ Golden Guitar Awards three years in a row in Tamworth, Australia. The single “Finally Over Blue” tipped The Eagles 10-month run off the top of the Australian radio airplay charts.

Since the Australian release of their album, “Chaos and Bright Lights,” the media quickly recognized their increasing popularity. They appeared numerous times on popular Australian television shows including “Sunrise,” “The Today Show,” “Mornings with Kerri-Anne,” and the high-rated lifestyle show, “Getaway,” where the girls presented their hometown of Grafton (NSW) to the nation. They also appeared on the Australian Series, “Neighbors,” in 2008.

Recently, I had the chance to ask Brooke McClymont about things such as their music, goals, and pet-peeves. You can read about it below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music, and what sparked that interest? How did you guys come together as a group?

I first realized i had an interest in music was when i was about 11 yrs old. I loved Dolly Parton and ABBA and would sing their songs non stop around the house. Sam and Mollie would follow me around and sing as my back up girls but we seriously formed the group in 2006.

How would you describe the sound of your music, and how do you feel your music is different from others in your genre?

Its always hard to describe your music, but I’ve always thought of it this way – if you were to put the 3 of our musical influences in a blending machine and turn on the button, shake it up, the contents you will pour out is us… The McClymonts. I guess the one thing that would stand us out from others in our genre is we are 3 sisters from Australia who sing 3 part harmony.

Who are some of your musical influences, and who are some artists you would love to work with?

I love Dolly Parton and ABBA as well as Heart, Roxette, alot of the 80′s music I grew up listening too as well as the older stuff in the 60′s and 70′s like the Eagles, Iris Dement and Don Williams. I would love to work with any of the above I’ve mentioned. They are all so talented, it would be a dream come true.

What are some of your short term and long term goals? What is your plans for promoting your music in the US?

The short term goals are to just stay positive and really take in every moment we are having with our music. All the experience we are getting from being here in the states is so mind blowing we really are lucky girls to be given this opportunity. Our plans for our music in the US is hopefully a long career. We don’t expect anything but if we can have a long career and keep doing what we’re doing then we’re really happy with that.

Was there ever a time where you felt like giving up music or quitting on your way to where you are now?

Not really!!! Because there’s the 3 of us we always help each other through the difficult times and reassure each other its okay and its worth it.

How do you keep the balance in your group, when it can be overwhelming at times trying to please everyone?

The 3 of us each know what one anothers strengths and weakness’s are so when it comes to keeping a balance it kind of just works. We really don’t stress over what people think of us because you can’t ever please everybody so we make sure that the 3 of us treat each other with respect and when we do that everyone gets along nicely.

Do you have any musical pet-peeves?

Yes – rhyming ‘girl’ with ‘world.’ I’m not going to lie, Ive done it but I don’t like it.

Besides music, what are some of your hobbies? What do you do to keep yourself grounded?

I love hanging out at my home. It sounds strange but I’m never there, so when I am I love getting into the garden and doing little projects around the house. When I’m not doing that, I love catching up with friends and family because I never get to see them.

What do you miss most, besides family and friends, when you are out traveling?

I miss home cooked meals. It’s so hard to eat healthy on the road. We try but the temptation of fast food sometimes wins because its so quick.

What is one accomplishment you hope to make above all others in your life and your career?

I would like to feel contentment and know that every decision I’ve made has been the right one for that time. I’m almost there!