Music News
Music News
Damon Albarn is planning a new Gorillaz album.
The 47-year-old star has revealed he is set to start recording the group's new record in September as a follow-up to 2011's 'The Fall', scheduled for a 2016 release.
He told Australian television programme, ABC's '7.30': "I'm starting recording in September for a new Gorillaz record.
"I've just been really, really busy so I haven't had a chance.
"I'd love to just get back in to that routine of being at home and coming to the studio five days a week."
The virtual band - who released their eponymous debut in 2001 - is a collaboration between the Blur frontman and animator Jamie Hewlett, who teased on Instagram earlier this year that a comeback could be happening.
Along with new sketches of fictional band members Murdoc and Noodle, he wrote: "Yes Gorillaz Returns (sic)".
The future of the partnership had been left in doubt following a well-publicised fallout, although last year Damon revealed it had brought them closer together.
He said at the time: "I can definitely see another Gorillaz-esque record at some point, yeah.
"That will almost definitely happen. I could put a Gorillaz record out next week; I've got enough stuff I haven't finished.
"There are points in every relationship where they fall out with people that they're close to and then they reconcile, hopefully, and actually, you know the relationship's probably in a healthier place as a result of that."
Damon Albarn confirms new Gorillaz record
Damon Albarn is planning a new Gorillaz album.
The 47-year-old star has revealed he is set to start recording the group's new record in September as a follow-up to 2011's 'The Fall', scheduled for a 2016 release.
He told Australian television programme, ABC's '7.30': "I'm starting recording in September for a new Gorillaz record.
"I've just been really, really busy so I haven't had a chance.
"I'd love to just get back in to that routine of being at home and coming to the studio five days a week."
The virtual band - who released their eponymous debut in 2001 - is a collaboration between the Blur frontman and animator Jamie Hewlett, who teased on Instagram earlier this year that a comeback could be happening.
Along with new sketches of fictional band members Murdoc and Noodle, he wrote: "Yes Gorillaz Returns (sic)".
The future of the partnership had been left in doubt following a well-publicised fallout, although last year Damon revealed it had brought them closer together.
He said at the time: "I can definitely see another Gorillaz-esque record at some point, yeah.
"That will almost definitely happen. I could put a Gorillaz record out next week; I've got enough stuff I haven't finished.
"There are points in every relationship where they fall out with people that they're close to and then they reconcile, hopefully, and actually, you know the relationship's probably in a healthier place as a result of that."
Music News
Johnny Marr is taking a break from music to write his autobiography.
The legendary guitarist - a former member of The Smiths, Modest Mouse and The Cribs - has been penning the tome on the road while promoting his 2013 and 2014 solo albums ;The Messenger' and 'Playland' but now needs some time off to give the project his full attention so it will be completed in time for its autumn 2016 release date.
He said: "I always knew it was going to be a matter of downing tools to get the book done.
"You can't write a book backstage with soundcheck going on."
The 51-year-old rocker wants to be candid in his book and though he doesn't want his tales to make people dislike him, he won't be "self-important).
He told NME: "The important thing is that the people who like what I do still like me the same once they know everything.
"I take writing seriously but I also want it to be entertaining, because I don't want it to be too self-important or pompous."
Johnny hasn't given his autobiography a title yet, but plans to stay away from puns.
He said: "It absolutely won't be 'This Charming Marr', 'Isn't It Marrvelous' or any pun like that.
"I've been looking at those kind of headlines all my adult life, thanks very much."
The full interview is the latest edition of NME magazine.
Johnny Mar’s break from music for autobiography
Johnny Marr is taking a break from music to write his autobiography.
The legendary guitarist - a former member of The Smiths, Modest Mouse and The Cribs - has been penning the tome on the road while promoting his 2013 and 2014 solo albums ;The Messenger' and 'Playland' but now needs some time off to give the project his full attention so it will be completed in time for its autumn 2016 release date.
He said: "I always knew it was going to be a matter of downing tools to get the book done.
"You can't write a book backstage with soundcheck going on."
The 51-year-old rocker wants to be candid in his book and though he doesn't want his tales to make people dislike him, he won't be "self-important).
He told NME: "The important thing is that the people who like what I do still like me the same once they know everything.
"I take writing seriously but I also want it to be entertaining, because I don't want it to be too self-important or pompous."
Johnny hasn't given his autobiography a title yet, but plans to stay away from puns.
He said: "It absolutely won't be 'This Charming Marr', 'Isn't It Marrvelous' or any pun like that.
"I've been looking at those kind of headlines all my adult life, thanks very much."
The full interview is the latest edition of NME magazine.
Music News
Zayn Malik has been dropped from Simon Cowell's record label.
The music mogul had the first option to release the former One Direction singer's debut solo album through his Syco imprint, but wants to maintain his loyalty to the band, who he put together on 'The X Factor' in 2010.
A source said: "It's a big move for Simon because Zayn could have a very successful solo career but his priority absolutely remains the band and this is a big statement on his part."
Instead, Zayn - who quit the 'Little Things' group in March - will move to another label within Sony and insiders claim all parties are happy with the change.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Simon has set up a deal that suits Zayn and One Direction.
"Zayn will stay in the Sony family under a different label and it's totally with Simon Cowell's blessing.
"It was just felt to be a bit difficult to have 1D and Zayn on the same label -- and everyone felt it was better for him to be somewhere different.
"Since leaving the band, Zayn has changed management and lawyers so it would kind of make sense for him to work with a new label team."
The 22-year-old singer bears no animosity to his former boss, and is technically still signed to Syco while he works out a new deal.
The source added: "But having said that, he still gets on great with Simon.
"And his girlfriend Perrie Edwards is having huge success with Little Mix with Syco.
"At the moment, while things are being finalised, Zayn is still signed to Syco."
Zayn Malik to leave Syco
Zayn Malik has been dropped from Simon Cowell's record label.
The music mogul had the first option to release the former One Direction singer's debut solo album through his Syco imprint, but wants to maintain his loyalty to the band, who he put together on 'The X Factor' in 2010.
A source said: "It's a big move for Simon because Zayn could have a very successful solo career but his priority absolutely remains the band and this is a big statement on his part."
Instead, Zayn - who quit the 'Little Things' group in March - will move to another label within Sony and insiders claim all parties are happy with the change.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Simon has set up a deal that suits Zayn and One Direction.
"Zayn will stay in the Sony family under a different label and it's totally with Simon Cowell's blessing.
"It was just felt to be a bit difficult to have 1D and Zayn on the same label -- and everyone felt it was better for him to be somewhere different.
"Since leaving the band, Zayn has changed management and lawyers so it would kind of make sense for him to work with a new label team."
The 22-year-old singer bears no animosity to his former boss, and is technically still signed to Syco while he works out a new deal.
The source added: "But having said that, he still gets on great with Simon.
"And his girlfriend Perrie Edwards is having huge success with Little Mix with Syco.
"At the moment, while things are being finalised, Zayn is still signed to Syco."
Music News
Blur's Alex James is "proud" of Damon Albarn for playing a five hour set.
The frontman of the rock group had to be escorted off the stage by security when he refused to end the show and his bandmate has likened the star to comedian Ken Dodd.
He said: "God bless him, I was so proud of him playing for five hours ...
"Damon told me he went to see Ken Dodd and he used to play for like five hours didn't he!"
And the 46-year-old bassist thinks the group reuniting after a 12-year hiatus is "really special".
He added: "I think there's something really special about Blur getting back together.
"It really has knocked us all over, we were playing in Blackpool and the crowd were going so mental the barrier broke, it was quite scary actually!"
And with the successful release of their LP 'The Magic Whip', Alex is looking forward to the "incredible summer" they have planned.
Speaking on ITV's Good Morning Britain, he said: "We released an album, we only announced it in February and it's just kind of blown us all away it's been an a incredible summer so far ...
"I'm going round the world in like 10 days! It doesn't take long to do a world tour these days, everything has sped up since the last time I did it."
Blur’s Alex James ‘proud’ of Damon Albarn’s five hour set
Blur's Alex James is "proud" of Damon Albarn for playing a five hour set.
The frontman of the rock group had to be escorted off the stage by security when he refused to end the show and his bandmate has likened the star to comedian Ken Dodd.
He said: "God bless him, I was so proud of him playing for five hours ...
"Damon told me he went to see Ken Dodd and he used to play for like five hours didn't he!"
And the 46-year-old bassist thinks the group reuniting after a 12-year hiatus is "really special".
He added: "I think there's something really special about Blur getting back together.
"It really has knocked us all over, we were playing in Blackpool and the crowd were going so mental the barrier broke, it was quite scary actually!"
And with the successful release of their LP 'The Magic Whip', Alex is looking forward to the "incredible summer" they have planned.
Speaking on ITV's Good Morning Britain, he said: "We released an album, we only announced it in February and it's just kind of blown us all away it's been an a incredible summer so far ...
"I'm going round the world in like 10 days! It doesn't take long to do a world tour these days, everything has sped up since the last time I did it."
Music News
Sam Smith's throat is looking "b****y" fantastic.
The 'Stay With Me' hitmaker had an operation on his vocal cords earlier this year but has revealed things are looking up.
Captioning a black and white photograph of himself, he wrote: "So just want to keep everyone in the loop; I have been in Boston the last few days to have a check up on my throat, before I embark on my American tour. MY THROAT IS LOOKING B****Y FANTASTIC. (sic)"
However, the 23-year-old singer has admitted it will be a "really tough" month as he tours the United States.
He added: "So it's amazing news. So happy. It's going to be a really tough month of shows but I can't wait to see you all, and pray it's going to be a smooth ride. LET'S GO (sic)."
Meanwhile, the star recently admitted he was "scared" about getting back on stage.
When asked about making his return to touring, he said: "I am. I'm scared. If anyone's listening I'm really going to try my absolute best, but I am scared though.
"It's quite intense to go into. But I love what I do and I wanted to do it, and hopefully I can hold it all together and perform every show."
Sam Smith’s ‘fantastic’ throat
Sam Smith's throat is looking "b****y" fantastic.
The 'Stay With Me' hitmaker had an operation on his vocal cords earlier this year but has revealed things are looking up.
Captioning a black and white photograph of himself, he wrote: "So just want to keep everyone in the loop; I have been in Boston the last few days to have a check up on my throat, before I embark on my American tour. MY THROAT IS LOOKING B****Y FANTASTIC. (sic)"
However, the 23-year-old singer has admitted it will be a "really tough" month as he tours the United States.
He added: "So it's amazing news. So happy. It's going to be a really tough month of shows but I can't wait to see you all, and pray it's going to be a smooth ride. LET'S GO (sic)."
Meanwhile, the star recently admitted he was "scared" about getting back on stage.
When asked about making his return to touring, he said: "I am. I'm scared. If anyone's listening I'm really going to try my absolute best, but I am scared though.
"It's quite intense to go into. But I love what I do and I wanted to do it, and hopefully I can hold it all together and perform every show."
Music News
Mariah Carey believes the modern music industry is "very difficult".
The 45-year-old star has revealed she thinks it's much harder to become a popular musician who can leave a legacy nowadays, so admitted she is unsure whether anyone will be able to replicate her success.
Asked who will be the "next Mariah", she said: "Everybody should be their own person. The music industry today is a very difficult place to have a long lasting career. Especially if you are trying to be a carbon copy of someone else. The best advice I can give is to work as hard as you can, try not to alienate people, and love what you do!"
The 'We Belong Together' hitmaker - who has achieved 18 number one singles in the US since the start of her career, more than any other artist - is currently performing at her Las Vegas residency and explained the show has stopped her from starting work on her 15th studio album.
She said: "I haven't started writing my all new album yet. Currently I'm absorbed in making my show, '#1 to Infinity', the most fun for my fans as possible."
However, the star hinted she may be more eager to head back into films instead of music when her residency ends, having previously starred in 2001's commercial and critical flop 'Glitter' and 2009 drama 'Precious'.
Asked whether she wants to do more films, she told Gay Vegas magazine: "I would love to! I love acting. It's a totally different way for me to express my creativity."
Mariah Carey calls music industry ‘very difficult’
Mariah Carey believes the modern music industry is "very difficult".
The 45-year-old star has revealed she thinks it's much harder to become a popular musician who can leave a legacy nowadays, so admitted she is unsure whether anyone will be able to replicate her success.
Asked who will be the "next Mariah", she said: "Everybody should be their own person. The music industry today is a very difficult place to have a long lasting career. Especially if you are trying to be a carbon copy of someone else. The best advice I can give is to work as hard as you can, try not to alienate people, and love what you do!"
The 'We Belong Together' hitmaker - who has achieved 18 number one singles in the US since the start of her career, more than any other artist - is currently performing at her Las Vegas residency and explained the show has stopped her from starting work on her 15th studio album.
She said: "I haven't started writing my all new album yet. Currently I'm absorbed in making my show, '#1 to Infinity', the most fun for my fans as possible."
However, the star hinted she may be more eager to head back into films instead of music when her residency ends, having previously starred in 2001's commercial and critical flop 'Glitter' and 2009 drama 'Precious'.
Asked whether she wants to do more films, she told Gay Vegas magazine: "I would love to! I love acting. It's a totally different way for me to express my creativity."
Music News
Young Thug has been arrested for "terroristic threats".
The 22-year-old rapper was arrested on Wednesday morning (15.07.15) on an outstanding warrant after allegedly threatening to shoot a security guard in the face earlier this month in Georgia.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution newspaper, the 'Stoner' musician was apprehended by the US Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force as a result of the incident at Perimeter Mall in Dunwoody, Georgia on July 7.
A witness of the argument told Complex magazine the rapper - whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams - had been riding around the shopping centre on a two-wheel Hovertrax board with his entourage when he was approached by the guard who said he should not have the Hovertrax in the mall, causing Young Thug to get defensive and threaten the man.
Complex wrote: "Thug reportedly lifted up his shirt as if he had a gun and threatened to shoot the security guard, who then said they would be banned from the mall and that cops would be called if they attempted to show up again."
Young Thug - who is a friend of Rihanna's - has been taken to DeKalb County jail for his bond hearing.
Meanwhile, the rapper has also been linked to an alleged plan to kill 'Lollipop' hitmaker Lil Wayne.
According to HipHopDX website, Young Thug, fellow musician Birdman and a third individual have been named in an indictment stemming from the shooting of Wayne's tour bus back in April, although no official charges are believed to have been made as yet.
Young Thug arrested for ‘terroristic threats’
Young Thug has been arrested for "terroristic threats".
The 22-year-old rapper was arrested on Wednesday morning (15.07.15) on an outstanding warrant after allegedly threatening to shoot a security guard in the face earlier this month in Georgia.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution newspaper, the 'Stoner' musician was apprehended by the US Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force as a result of the incident at Perimeter Mall in Dunwoody, Georgia on July 7.
A witness of the argument told Complex magazine the rapper - whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams - had been riding around the shopping centre on a two-wheel Hovertrax board with his entourage when he was approached by the guard who said he should not have the Hovertrax in the mall, causing Young Thug to get defensive and threaten the man.
Complex wrote: "Thug reportedly lifted up his shirt as if he had a gun and threatened to shoot the security guard, who then said they would be banned from the mall and that cops would be called if they attempted to show up again."
Young Thug - who is a friend of Rihanna's - has been taken to DeKalb County jail for his bond hearing.
Meanwhile, the rapper has also been linked to an alleged plan to kill 'Lollipop' hitmaker Lil Wayne.
According to HipHopDX website, Young Thug, fellow musician Birdman and a third individual have been named in an indictment stemming from the shooting of Wayne's tour bus back in April, although no official charges are believed to have been made as yet.
Music News
Little Mix's new album will be called 'Get Weird'.
The four-piece girl group were forced to announce the news on Wednesday evening (15.07.15) after the news was leaked online a day earlier than planned.
Alongside the album's official artwork, the band wrote: "Well...it's happened again!! We were getting ready to reveal all the details about our third album to you tomorrow and someone beat us to it! This doesn't change the fact that you guys have been so patient and amazing waiting for this so now is as good a time as any to let you know that the wait is NEARLY over!"
The LP will be their first since the release of their second record 'Salute' in 2013, which spawned hits including 'Move' and 'Little Me'.
Continuing to post about the album - which will be released on November 6 and will feature their recent hit single 'Black Magic' - band members Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Jesy Nelson and Jade Thirlwall admitted they are "so proud" of what they have created.
They added: "Mixers...we give you our brand new album #GetWeird which will be available to pre-order at midnight BST on Thursday (14th August US & Canada) and out on 6th November.
"We CANNOT WAIT for you to see and hear more from#GetWeird. We are so proud of this and hope you LOVE it!! (sic)"
Little Mix announce new LP Get Weird
Little Mix's new album will be called 'Get Weird'.
The four-piece girl group were forced to announce the news on Wednesday evening (15.07.15) after the news was leaked online a day earlier than planned.
Alongside the album's official artwork, the band wrote: "Well...it's happened again!! We were getting ready to reveal all the details about our third album to you tomorrow and someone beat us to it! This doesn't change the fact that you guys have been so patient and amazing waiting for this so now is as good a time as any to let you know that the wait is NEARLY over!"
The LP will be their first since the release of their second record 'Salute' in 2013, which spawned hits including 'Move' and 'Little Me'.
Continuing to post about the album - which will be released on November 6 and will feature their recent hit single 'Black Magic' - band members Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Jesy Nelson and Jade Thirlwall admitted they are "so proud" of what they have created.
They added: "Mixers...we give you our brand new album #GetWeird which will be available to pre-order at midnight BST on Thursday (14th August US & Canada) and out on 6th November.
"We CANNOT WAIT for you to see and hear more from#GetWeird. We are so proud of this and hope you LOVE it!! (sic)"
Music News
Justin Bieber isn't "worried" about when his album gets finished.
The 'Baby' hitmaker - who released his last studio album in 2012 - has insisted he is in no rush to get a new LP out and just wants it to be "perfect".
When asked when his new album would be out, he said: "I actually don't know. I'm really not worried about when it's finished, I just want it to be perfect, so we're taking our time with it.
"I've been working with Kanye West and Rick Rubin. We've gone in with a bunch of different people. I'm just trying to get the best sound and have it be consistent and make sense with what I'm going through in my life right now."
And Justin has revealed the new music will be "very personal".
He added: "It's just very personal. People will be able to really get in to where my heart is. It's about my journey in life - stuff that I've been through.
"Maybe I can teach a lesson, certain things that are inspiring."
And the 21-year-old singer is looking forward to have his guitar and drum tracks included in the new album.
Speaking to Martha Stewart in Interview magazine, he said: I play drums and guitar. My best instrument is definitely drums, so I'm featured a lot on the album drumming. It's pretty futuristic as well.
"Skrillex is on a really new wave and has found a way to take my vocals and mix them and play with them and pitch it up to make it higher with these cool effects that sound really futuristic. We have a really good chemistry."
Justin Bieber not ‘worried’ about new album
Justin Bieber isn't "worried" about when his album gets finished.
The 'Baby' hitmaker - who released his last studio album in 2012 - has insisted he is in no rush to get a new LP out and just wants it to be "perfect".
When asked when his new album would be out, he said: "I actually don't know. I'm really not worried about when it's finished, I just want it to be perfect, so we're taking our time with it.
"I've been working with Kanye West and Rick Rubin. We've gone in with a bunch of different people. I'm just trying to get the best sound and have it be consistent and make sense with what I'm going through in my life right now."
And Justin has revealed the new music will be "very personal".
He added: "It's just very personal. People will be able to really get in to where my heart is. It's about my journey in life - stuff that I've been through.
"Maybe I can teach a lesson, certain things that are inspiring."
And the 21-year-old singer is looking forward to have his guitar and drum tracks included in the new album.
Speaking to Martha Stewart in Interview magazine, he said: I play drums and guitar. My best instrument is definitely drums, so I'm featured a lot on the album drumming. It's pretty futuristic as well.
"Skrillex is on a really new wave and has found a way to take my vocals and mix them and play with them and pitch it up to make it higher with these cool effects that sound really futuristic. We have a really good chemistry."