New Music Friday – Il Volo

Move over American Idol – it’s Italy’s time to shine. In May 2009, three fresh-faced teenagers, Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto and Gianluca Ginoble, appeared on the popular Italian talent show Ti Lascio Una Canzone and dazzled viewers with their flawless rendition of the Italian standard “O Sole Mio.” It was at this moment Il Volo (which means “the flight” in English) was born. Their self-titled debut album, released in Italy this past November, has already been certified platinum, and the group will debut their album to the US on April 12th.

Piero (17), Ignazio (16) and Gianluca (16) recorded Il Volo in Los Angeles, Rome, and at London’s famed Abbey Road studios with a number of renowned producers including Humberto Gatica, who has worked with the likes of Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, and Celine Dion. The album is a stellar showcase for the three young singers’ astonishing vocal talent, as they interpret a range of both new and traditional, classically influenced pop songs, including single “O Sole Mio,” “Smile” (popularized by Nat King Cole), a medley of Ennio Morricone songs from the soundtracks of his movies like Once Upon a Time in America, “La Luna Hizo Esto” (written specifically for Il Volo by multi-platinum songwriter Diane Warren), and more.

Il Volo made their American television debut this week singing “O Sole Mio” on CBS’ ‘The Talk,’ and had the audience jumping out of their seats for a standing ovation. For a limited time, get a free download of the track by visiting IlVoloMusic.com. Fans can also preorder the album via Amazon or through the official website, where you can also get to know the group through a short introductory piece and watch the official music video for “O Sole Mio.”

They may be young but Il Volo’s mission is clear: “We want to share our love for this music with people all over the world, including kids our own age.” That they say “would be our dream come true.”

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Images Via: PopGeneration

Celine Dion Gives Birth To Twin Boys

Celine Dion has given birth to not one, but two healthy baby boys.

Dion gave birth Saturday via C-section to fraternal twin sons despite reported health problems (read about that HERE).

Via People:

“‘Celine, René and their son René-Charles are thrilled,’ says her rep.”

Dion, 42, gave birth in West Palm Beach, Florida. She and her husband, Rene, have are already parents to Rene-Charles.

No names have been revealed, but Dion’s doctor revealed at a press conference that both boys were born with a ton of hair!

CLICK HERE to see who likes it sloppy.

CLICK HERE to check out Sia’s latest single.

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Images Via: WENN.com

Celine Dion Admitted To The Hospital To Avoid Premature Labor

Celine Dion, who is expecting twins, has been hospitalized to avoid premature labor with weeks to go before her scheduled due date, which is common among women carrying multiple children. Dion has been placed under observation at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Florida at the request of her doctors and is said to be in good condition.

Per PopEater:

“[This] is the standard of care for any patient with twin pregnancy in this clinical setting,” her rep added.

Dion is due to give birth next month. She announced earlier this year that she’s pregnant with two boys. She had tried for years to have more children. She and her husband, Rene Angelil, are the parents of a 9 year old son, Rene Charles.

Best wishes to the family for a safe delivery!

Click here to read an update on BMX’er TJ Lavin.

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Images Via: WENN

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!

Grammy 2010 Full Winner’s List, Photos and Videos

[Lady Gaga and Elton John Grammy's 2010 Opening Performance - Video]

Lady Gaga and Elton John delivered an opening performance that reminded us that even not-so-sexy people are suddenly desirable when they can sing. She was wearing another one of her signature swimsuits on steroids complete with a Kelly Kapowski above the hip cut. Elton had on his Sunday Tea glitter glasses and the two sang a mix of Gaga’s song “Speechless” and John’s “Your Song.”

The night was packed with performances by Black Eyed Peas, Lady Antebellum, Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Dave Matthews Band, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige and a slew of others. Pink was one performance that gave me a case of the holyshizs as she twirled around in the air on a giant pashmina while singing “Glitter in the Air.”

[Pink Grammy 2010 Performance "Glitter in the Air" - Video]

Jennifer Hudson, Celine Dion, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Smokey Robinson sang “Earth Song” (aka “What About Us”) along with the Michael Jackson recording in a 3D video for the song.

[Michael Jackson "Earth Song" Tribute Grammy Awards 2010 - Video]

-The Full 2010 Grammy Winners List is After the Cut. Plus Beyonce’s Grammy Performance “You Oughta Know” Cover. Click “Read More…” Below the Photos- Note: This will be updated after the show ends.

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Images Via: WENN.com

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Celine Dion Pregnant-Baby Bump Photos

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It’s being reported this morning that Celine Dion is expecting her second child. The singer, who is 41 years-old, and her husband and former manager Rene Angelil, 67, already have one son, Rene-Charles, who is eight.

Via the Montreal Gazette:

“A report in Tuesday’s Journal de Montréal states that the 41-year-old superstar and her husband, René Angélil, 67, conceived with the help of a team of fertility doctors in New York. The couple’s first child, René-Charles, was born in January 2001. Angélil has three other children from two previous marriages.”

Dion has often expressed her desire to extend her family, but her husband’s battle with cancer seemed to put an end to those dreams until now.

Is it just me, or does it seem a little strange to think that, when this child turns 30, his father will be 98? Perhaps that has something to do with why getting pregnant was a little difficult?

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Image Via: wenn.com

Possible Wedding for Calista and Harrison?

According to the NY Post, Calista Flockheart and Harrison Ford might be getting married! And who am I to stand in the way of a January-November marriage?? He’s only 20 years her senior, that’s not bad, right??? Besides, as long as I am allowed to do the same when I get to be that age!

According to the Post:

Bigmouths swear Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart took blood tests and got licenses so could be they already are or soon will be filing joint returns.

After being together for almost six years, I will admit this is somewhat romantic. Although, apparently when Ford asked Flockheart to marry him, she thought he was kidding! And he had to convince her he was serious!! BAM! That’s a shot to the ego!! At least the two have gotten over that and are now nuptual bound!

I wonder who the designer of the dress will be! I just hope she doesn’t pull a Celine Dion–that was fugly!

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Images Via: Bauer Griffin