Rihanna hits back at Dutch mag for racial slur

Pop superstar Rihanna has gone to Twitter to rebuke the Dutch fashion magazine Jackie for using a racial slur in an article about her, reports billboard.com.

In their article about the Barbadian singer, the magazine said: “She has street cred, she has a ghetto ass and she has a golden throat. Rihanna, the good girl gone bad, is the ultimate n—abitch and displays that gladly, and for her that means: what’s on can come off. If that means she’ll be on stage half naked, then so be it.”

Rihanna took to Twitter, posting a message tagging the magazine’s editor which read: “I hope u can read english, because your magazine is a poor representation of the evolution of human rights!” she wrote. “I find you disrespectful, and rather desperate!! You ran out of legit, civilized information to print! There are 1000′s of Dutch girls who would love to be recognized for their contributions to your country, you could have given them an article. Instead, u paid to print one degrading an entire race! That’s your contribution to this world! To encourage segregation, to mislead the future leaders to act in the past! You put two words together, with the intent of abasement, that made no sense…’N—A BITCH’?!….Well with all respect, on behalf of my race, here are my two words for you…F— YOU!!!”

The magazine has apologised for the slur, although judging by her Twitter message they may have to wait a while for RiRi to forgive them.

Kwaito singer Mshoza in hospital after suicide attempt

Local kwaito star Mshoza was admitted to a Wibank hospital after overdosing on pills, according to entertainmentafrica.co.za. Drum reported that the singer, who recently had her skin lightened in a cosmetic procedure, attempted suicide after her husband, businessman Jacob Mnisi, left her to stay with his girlfriend in Pretoria. The girlfriend is reportedly pregnant with Mnisi’s child.

Bongani Fassie arrested

Bongani Fassie was arrested on Friday night for DUI, according to entertainmentafrica.co.za. The website reports that Fassie, a rapper and son of the late Brenda Fassie, was arrested after a brawl with hip hop artists Vuyile ‘Akonvict’ Jukuda and Liso Ngema.

Fassie reportedly jumped a red robot and nearly hit the pair in Oxford Street in Joburg beofre stopping the car and verbally abusing the pair. He allegedly then got back in his car and drove off, jumping another red robot in front of police who gave chase.

The report in entertainmentafrica.co.za quotes Akonvict as saying that Fassie then did a u-turn and returned to where the pair were, where he allegedly punched Akonvikt twice in the face before being hauled off by the police.

Zahara tops bill for MTN Jazz Festival

Local sensation Zahara will headline the MTN Jazz Festival, to be held at Hazelmere Dam in Durban on Boxing Day, 26 December. Whilst the full line up is still to be announced, organisers have confirmed that the festival will be headlined by Zahara, Teargas and Zakes Bantwini.

According to mio.co.za, Desiree Pooe of MTN SA said: “MTN is a supporter of local music and one of our key focus areas is showcasing some of South Africa’s great music talent. The MTN Durban Jazz Festival is one of the platforms that allow us to bring musicians to their beloved fans and embrace the talent we have.”

Idols runner up signs recording deal

Mark Haze, runner up in Idols season 7, has signed a recording deal with Universal Music Group. iol.co.za reports that the singer commented: “I am extremely honoured and proud to be joining the Universal Music Group family. To be signed by the same label as so many of my heroes is a dream come true. I’m very excited to begin working on my album and getting to work with the team.”

Justin Bieber has paternity test

Teenage pop sensation Justin Bieber has undergone a paternity test. The 17 year old Canadian, who has just released Christmas album Under the Mistletoe, has vehemently denied the claims of a fan, Mariah Yeater, that he is the father of her four month old child, who she claims was conceived in a 30 second encounter backstage at one of his concerts last year. He has taken the DNA test to prove his innocence, and says he will take legal action against Yeater once he does so.

Bieber's fans, known as the beliebers, are the most rabid, obsessed bunch of supporters in the world, so it's not surprising that one of them has imagined she had a child with him. Selena Gomez has recently received death threats from beliebers who are jealous at her relationship with him.

Danny K gets engaged

Local pop star Danny K got engaged to his girlfriend Lisa Gundelfinger at Londolozi Game Reserve last week. They plan to have the wedding next year.

Gundelfinger, 26, will be joining the bar in Johannesburg as an advocate in the near future.

Rolling Stone launches in SA

Legendary music magazine Rolling Stone has launched a South African edition. The first edition of the local version of the magazine hits the shelves today, with jazz icon Hugh Masekela fittingly gracing the cover.

Rolling Stone SA will feature in-depth, up-close and personal profiles on cultural icons and ground-breaking artists, current affairs and pieces on TV, radio, fashion and entertainment trends. Rolling Stone South Africa editor-in-chief, Miles Keylock said in a press statement: "It's about respect - for our subject matter and our readers. We focus on real, in-depth pop culture and current affairs stories, not tabloid headlines and hype. You're not going to get this kind of editorial content in any other magazine in South Africa."

Rick Ross to join Lil Wayne in SA

There will be an added bonus when rap superstar Lil Wayne hits our shores in December - he will be joined by fellow big name rapper Rick Ross! Ross will be joining Weezy for the Joburg show on 9th December at the Coca-Cola Dome. For the Durban and Cape Town shows, Wayne will be joined by Young Money Entertainment's Corey Gunz, Gudda Gudda, Mack Maine, Shannel, T-Streets and Jae Millz, as well as a few South African acts who will be selected via a competition to open the show.

Lil Wayne will be performing at Bellville Velodrome, Cape Town on Wednesday, December 7th, the Coca Cola Dome in Johannesburg on Friday, December 9th and The Wavehouse in Durban on December 11th.

Gospel singer arrested for assault

Local gospel singer Lusanda Mcinga was granted bail by the Butterworth Magistrate's Court on Monday, after her arrest on an assault charge, Eastern Cape police said. The 47-year-old musician was released on R500 bail and will appear in court again on December 9, charged with assault, kidnapping and robbery.

Mcinga, who lives in Mthatha, was arrested last week after she and accomplices apparently assaulted a man thought to be selling pirated CDs. They allegedly took him to a veld in Butterworth, where he was beaten up and his cellphone was also stolen.

Justin Bieber willing to take paternity test

Helium voiced 17 year old pop star Justin Bieber has said he is willing to take a paternity test to disprove the claims of a woman who has claimed in a lawsuit that he is the father of her child. Bieber is adamant he has never met Mariah Yeater before and is willing to take the tests to prove it.

Asked about the paternity suit, Bieber said: "All this stuff is dealt with by my legal team. But if they want me to (take a paternity test) then I will." On whether he was worried about the lawsuit ruining his reputation, he said: "Not at all … When these people's lies are eventually exposed, it's them who end up looking bad not the artists. My fans, as always, have been great. I really can't ever thank them enough for all the support they always show me. I really do think I have the best fans in the world - I could not ask for anything more."

Jackson doctor guilty

Michael Jackson's doctor, Dr. Conrad Murray, has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter relating to the singers death from an overdose of the sedative propofol, administered by Dr. Murray. Sentencing has not yet taken place but Murray could face up to four years in jail.

Justin Bieber hits 2 billion views on YouTube

Justin Bieber has become the first person in history to reach 2 billion views on YouTube. The teenage sensation reached the mark by gaining 95 million views on his official Vevo YouTube channel in the past month.

Bieber was famously discovered on YouTube and has gone on to record a string of hits, building up an obsessed army of fans known as the "beliebers". He has just released a Christmas album, "Under the Mistletoe", which seems destined to be another chart-topper for the 17 year-old.

Usher to play SA shows

R&B superstar Usher is set to perform in South Africa in March 2012 as headliner at the Hansa Festival of Legends, according to a press release issued on Tuesday 1 November. The star will perform in the festival at Cape Town's Grand Arena on 3 March, the ICC Durban Arena on 7 March and finally Orlando Stadium in Soweto on 10 March 2012.

Usher has won 17 Billboard Music Awards, nine ASCAP Awards, eight Soul Train Music Awards and five Grammy Awards.

Jub Jub arrested, again

Local hip hop star Jub Jub Maarohanye is in hot water again. Jub Jub, who is currently facing four charges of murder, as well as driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, relating to an alleged drag racing accident, was arrested on Friday night after police intervened in a fight between him and on/off girlfriend Kelly Khumalo. Khumalo was also arrested under the Domestic Violence Act along with Maarohanye.

Police spokesperson Karen Jacobs said Maarohanye and Khumalo had opened cases against each other.

SA hip hop show hits Cape Town

The Good Hope FM Hip-Hop Party in Cape Town on 3 NOvember 2011, will show off some of the best talent SA has to offer. The event will feature live acts AKA and Youngsta, aa well as a host of top DJs, graffiti artists and B-boy dancers. Among the DJs in action will be Ready D, Tyrone Paulsen, The Beatbangaz and Codax from Good Hope FM, as well as DJ Fanatic from Joburg and German-born DJ Leo Large.

The event will be held at The Assembly, located in Harrington Street in the heart of the historic District Six. Ticket are available at R70 through Webtickets (www.webtickets.co.za), or at R80 at the door. Doors open at 9pm.

Zola released on bail

Kwaito star and actor Zola has been released on bail following an alleged attack on a journalist at his home. Zola, real name Bonginkosi Dlamini, was released on R1000.00 bail by the Brixton Magistrates Court following the alleged attack, in which he is said to have assaulted Sunday World journalist Ggwako Malatji and set dogs on him.

Dlamini handed himself over to police in Brixton on Tuesday  25 Octobe after they had been looking for him in relation to the incident.

Seether to headline Cape Town Bike Festival

Local rockers Seether, who are based in the U.S.A., will headline the Cape Town Bike Festival, which takes place at the Cape Town Stadium from 16 to 18 December, 2011, the organisers have announced.
In a career that's spanned nearly a decade, the power trio of lead singer Shaun Morgan, bassist Dale Stewart and drummer John Humphrey, has toured the globe on the strength of five Gold and Platinum-selling albums.

Additional bands and performers at the festival will include local sensations Locnville, Zebra & Giraffe, Good Luck, The Graham Watkins Project and Idols 2011 runner-up Mark Haze, as well as a special performance by international eurodance icon Haddaway.

The festival combines the world of bikes with live entertainment in the form of international and local bands, product displays and a dirt bike extravaganza over the three-day event. The festival will attract not only the biking fraternity, but additional non-biking music fans, women, children and visitors from around the globe.

Tickets are available at www.computicket.com

Westlife to split

Irish boy band Westlife have announced that they are splitting next year. The band will part ways "amicably" in 2012 following a greatest hits album and a farewell tour next year. The statement read: "After 14 years, 26 top ten hits including 14 Number One singles, 11 Top Five albums, seven of which hit the top spot and have collectively sold over 44-million copies around the world, 10 sell-out tours and countless memories that we will forever cherish, we today announce our plan to go our separate ways after a greatest hits collection this Christmas and a farewell tour next year.

"The decision is entirely amicable and after spending all of our adult life together so far, we want to have a well-earned break and look at new ventures.

"We see the greatest hits collection and the farewell tour as the perfect way to celebrate our incredible career along with our fans. We are really looking forward to getting out on the tour and seeing our fans one last time."

Stone Roses to reunite?

Legendary Manchester group The Stone Roses are set to hold a press conference on 18 October 2011, with rumours abounding that the band will be reuniting for their first shows together since splitting in 1996.

Singer Ian Brown has apparently confirmed the reunion, reportedly smsing a friend that "we are going to rule the world again. It's happening."

Mitch Winehouse to publish Amy memoir

Amy Winehouse's father Mitch has signed a book deal with publisher HarperCollins to write a memoir of his late daughter. Proceeds from the book will go to The Amy Winehouse Foundation, the charity set up by Mitch and friends to help vulnerable young people.

Mitch said: "I feel that I need to write this book to tell the true story of Amy and to help with my personal recovery. I also want to raise as much money as possible for Amy's Foundation, so all proceeds from the book will go directly to help children who are disadvantaged through illness and substance addiction.

"I believe that through Amy's music, her foundation, and this book, her name will live forever."

N-Dubz singer arrested

N-Dubz singer Dappy was arrested on suspicion of assaulting his girlfriend on Saturday 8 October 2011. Police were called to the house of the mother of Kaye Vassell, Dappy's girlfriend, following an alleged argument between the couple. Dappy, full name Dappy Contostavlos, was held for twelve hours before being released without charge.

Dappy and Vassell have two sons together.

Former Weezer bassist found dead

Former Weezer bassist Mikey Walsh was found dead in a hotel room in Chicago on 9 October of an apparent drug overdose. The rocker had predicted his own demise a couple of weeks previously on Twitter, posting: "Dreamt I died in Chicago next weekend (heart attack in my sleep). Need to write my will today. correction - the weekend after next."

Walsh joined Weezer in 1998 and left the band three years later after suffering a nervous breakdown and attempting suicide.

Weezer paid tribute to their former band-mate on their twitter page, posting: "We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the awful news, our friend and fellow weez rocker @mikeywelsh71 has passed away. We love u Mikey."

Fake Zahara CDs flood Joburg

Pirated copies of Zahara's acclaimed debut album Loliwe have flooded the pavements of Johannesburg and are being sold for R5. According to street vendors, the pirated disks are selling extremely well, with buyers unconcerned about the different packaging.

Loliwe, officially distributed by EMI, is one of the biggest selling local albums of this year and has  officially sold over 200 000 copies.

The business of illegally reproducing music albums has reached unprecedented levels, and in July this year well known musician Mzwakhe Mbuli said he would team up with fellow artists to launch an anti-piracy campaign called Shoot the Pirate to try to combat the problem.

Tupac sex tape unearthed

A tape, filmed at a house party in 1991, has reportedly been found, which shows rap legend Tupac Shakur receiving oral sex while he sings and dances along to his own music. The tape also features Tupac, with a drink in one hand and a joint in the other, having a conversation with Money B from Digital Underground while the woman continues the sex act on him. TMZ.com says plans are underway to release the tape for sale.

Tupac, often voted amongst the greatest rappers of all time, was killed in 1996 in a drive by shooting after leaving a boxing match with Death Row label owner Suge Knight. No-one has been convicted of the shooting.

Deadmau5 in S.A. in December

House music DJ and producer Deadmau5 will be performing at a series of gigs in South Africa in December. The Canadian Deadmau5, probably the biggest name in the world of electronic music at present, known worldwide for his over the top live performances and the giant mouse head mask he wears when performing, will perform at Ratanga Junction in Cape Town on Thursday 1 December, at the Wavehouse in Durban on Friday 2 December, and at Wildwaters H2O in Johannesburg on Saturday, 3 December.

Tickets for the shows are available on Computicket.

Jub Jub to get no legal aid help

Molemo "Jub Jub" Maarohanye will apparently not be appointed a legal aid lawyer for his murder trial. A legal aid spokesperson, Mpho Phasha, confirmed Maarohanye visited the Legal Aid SA Dobsonville Justice Centre on 7 September, but did not complete the application process so "no legal aid application was received for consideration."

Due to financial problems, Maarohanye has not paid his lawyer, Ike Motloung, who stated that if he was not paid for his services he would withdraw form the case.

Jub Jub faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol relating to an alleged drag racing accident in which four children who were on the side of the road were killed.

Lil Wayne coming to SA

Rap megastar Lil Wayne is heading to our shores! The self-styled 'best rapper alive', creator of hits such as "A Milli" and current hit "She Will", plays Cape Town's Bellville Velodrome on 7 December, Johannesburg's Coca-Cola Dome on 9 December, and a yet-to-be-announced Durban venue on December 11. The tour dates are part of the rapper's I Am Still Music Tour, and will be the first time he has played in South Africa.

Tickets are on sale at Computicket.

R.E.M. call it a day

Legendary American rock band R.E.M. have announced on their website that they have decided to split up. The announcement read: "To our Fans and Friends: As R.E.M., and as lifelong friends and co-conspirators, we have decided to call it a day as a band. We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished. To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening."

R.E.M. were formed in 1980 and became one of the biggest bands on the planet with hits like "Losing My Religion", "Man On The Moon", "Everybody Hurts" and "Shiny Happy People". They almost single-handedly brought indie music into the mainstream and paved the way for other bands to follow in their footsteps, including Nirvana and many other bands to come out of the Seattle scene in the 1990's.

Michael Jackson's doctor said he was "fine"

Court papers claim that Dr. Conrad Murray, Michael Jackson's personal physician, told paramedics that the star was "fine" when in reality he was dead.

Paramedic Richard Senneff, who was the first person on the scene when emergency services were called to the singer in June 2009, said in his statement that Dr. Murray stood in front of his patient's lifeless body and said: "He doesn't have a problem. He is fine. He was practising all night. I'm just treating him for dehydration."

Documents have also reveal that Richard believed the doctor lied about the medications Michael was taking. Upon being asked if the singer, the doctor apparently said: "No, he is not taking anything." After this, he admitted that he had administered the 'Thriller' star with anti-anxiety drug lorazepam "to help him sleep."

Dr. Murray is due to stand trial for the involuntary manslaughter of Jackson after being accused of administering the lethal dose of the anaesthetic Propofol. The trial is due to begin next week with Murray facing four years in prison if he is found guilty.

Black Coffee nominated for MTV Europe award

Local house DJ and producer Black Coffee has been nominated for an MTV Europe Music Award (EMA) in the Africa/ India/ Middle East category. The SAMA winner is up against Abdelfattah Grini, Cabo Snoop, Fally Ipupa, Wizkid, and Scribe for the award.

Lady Gaga leads the pack with six nominations, while Katy Perry and Bruno Mars have been nominated for four awards each. Adele is next with three nominations. The awards ceremony will take place on Sunday 6 November at 9pm at the Odyssey Arena in Belfast.

Support bands for Kings of Leon concerts named

The support bands at the upcoming Kings of Leon gigs in Joburg and Durban have been revealed. The American superstars with have support from local acts Die Heuwels Fantasties, Shadowclub, and the Black Hotels.

Kings Of Leon play Cape Town Stadium on 26 October 2011 and the Soccer City Complex, FNB Stadium on 29 October. Tickets are available through Computicket.

Lil Jon coming to SA

American rapper Lil Jon is coming to South Africa. The star, famous for a subgenre of hip hop known as crunk, will be performing at the Maloof Money Cup Benefit Concert in Kimberley, which runs from 30 September to 2 October at the GWK stadium.

Lil Jon will be joined at the concert by a number of local artists, including HHP, Jozi, Danny K and Kabelo.

The Amy Winehouse Foundation launches

The Amy Winehouse Foundation, which was created by Winehouse's father Mitch along with family and friends to help a number of causes including providing support for young people, especially those in need due to "ill health, disability, financial disadvantage or addiction", was officially launched yesterday, 14 September.

Mitch said: "I was in New York when I received the terrible news about Amy. It was almost instantaneous, this feeling that we need to help people she cared about. Amy was very generous and we kept coming back to the thought of how much she loved children. It seemed appropriate that the focus of our work should be with young people, those who are vulnerable either through ill health or circumstance. Amy touched millions throughout the world and I know she will continue to, through the foundation."

Michael Jackson's kids to get R210m

Michael Jackson's estate is set to donate R210-million to Katherine Jackson and his three children. According to TMZ.com, co-executors John Branca and John McClain are seeking the court's permission for the estate to fund the Michael Jackson Trust to benefit his mother and three children, Prince Michael (14), Paris (13), and nine-year-old 'Blanket'.

Jackson's estate has generated R2.7bn since the singer's death in 2009.

Darren Scott quits Jacaranda 94.2 over racial outburst

Popular Jacaranda 94.2 DJ Darren Scott has resigned from the station after launching a racial outburst at a fellow station employee during a team-building exercise. Scott told Talk Radio 702's John Robbie that he had resigned from the station and had apologised to colleague Africa Tshoaedi for the outburst.

Scott has also been put on an indefinite leave of absence from Supersport, who also employ him, until the situation has been resolved.

Liquideep and Spoek Nominated For MOBO's

South African acts Liquideep and Spoek Mathambo have been nominated for this year’s Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards. The MOBOs are given to artists of any race or nationality performing black music, and are one of the top musical prizes in England.

The two South African artists have been nominated in the Best African Act category. Other nominations in the category include D’banj, Fatoumata Diawara and Wizkid. Winners are picked based on fan voting and will be announced in Glasgow, Scotland on October 5. The ceremony will feature performances from the likes of Boys II Men, Jessie J, Katy B and Alexis Jordan, and will be hosted by American singer Jason Derulo.

Die Heuwels Fantasties named Springbok's Arts Ambassadors

Afrikaans alternative act Die Heuwels Fantasties have been invited by the Department of Arts and Culture to act as Arts Ambassadors for the Springboks at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. They will fly to New Zealand today to join the Boks at their pre-events and press functions. They will also do shows and attend a signing session with the Boks while they are there. The band's Hunter Kennedy said: “It is unbelievable.  It almost feels as if we were chosen for the team, haha!  It is an honour to represent our country and to support the Bokke and we have never been to New Zealand! Green and Gold!”

PJ Harvey wins Mercury Music Prize

English singer PJ Harvey has won the 2011 Barclaycard Mercury Music Prize, becoming the first person in the history of the award to win it twice. The award, for Harvey's album "Let England Shake", was announced on Tuesday 6 September. Other nominees for this year's award included Tinie Tempah , Adele, Katy B, Everything Everything and Ann Calvi. The award is  decided by a panel of industry figures.

T.I. released from jail

Atlanta rapper T.I. was released from prison on Wednesday morning and is now at a halfway house to serve out the rest of his 11-month sentence for probation violation. He was released from Forrest City Correctional Facility in Arkansas and will serve the rest of his sentence at a community living facility. The name of the facility will not be released until after his arrival.

The rapper has been serving time for a probation violation stemming from his arrest in Los Angeles on drug charges last year. Once he got out of prison, Tip took straight to Twitter. "Feels great to be back where I belong...Back in the arms of those who need me the most," he tweeted from his verified @Tip account. "The storm is over & da sun back out. IT'S OUR TIME TO SHINE SHAWTY!!!!! Welcome to the beginning of our Happy Ending!!!!"

"Tha Carter IV" heading for 850,000 first week sales in US

On Monday, initial first-week sales projections for Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter IV" were hovering in the 700,000-850,000 range, but now, after a full day's worth of sales under its belt, that number has grown. Industry sources now suggest the album may shift over 850,000-900,000 by week's end on Sept. 4.

The album, released on Monday , will undoubtedly hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 next week, marking Wayne's third US chart-topper.

Red Hot Chili Peppers' new album "I'm With You" will be the likely runner-up to Lil Wayne next week, as the veteran rock band's set is looking to start with around 175,000-200,000 sold.

If "Carter IV" shifts 850,000 or more, it will instantly mark the biggest sales week for a hip-hop album (or one by a male artist), since his own "Carter III" bowed with 1.01 million on the June 28, 2008 chart according to Nielsen SoundScan.

DJ Cndo and Biblos head To Canada

South African acts DJ Cndo and Biblos are reportedly on their way to Toronto, Canada. Internet reports say the duo will play at an event dubbed "The Virgo festival bash" this week.

DJ Cndo, who recently released her album 'The Finest Lady of House Vol. 4',  told The New Age that it was sad “because it has to take international people to realise SA has talent. We have tremendous talent here and we just don’t get the recognition.

“I have actually been in talks with the Virgo bash organisers from last year and I couldn’t go then because I didn’t have a visa.”

She said she couldn’t believe it when she got a call to say they wanted her to be part of the SA delegation.

The fourth annual Virgo Birthday Bash, themed The Red and White Affair, is at The Cellar, a popular nightclub in central Toronto, on Friday.

Beyoncé is pregnant

Beyoncé announced at the MTV VMA Awards on Sunday night that the 'Single Ladies' singer was pregnant with her and rap superstar Jay-Z's first child. The singer constantly cradled her belly during the awards, and announced from the stage before her performance of 'Love on Top': "I want you to stand up on your feet. I want you to feel the love that's growing inside me." After the song she unbuttoned her jacket and rubbed her stomach.

Beyonce's representative confirmed the pregnancy to People magazine: "I'm happy to say it's true."

Katy Perry dominates VMAs

Katy Perry walked away with 3 awards at the annual MTV Video Music Awards, including the biggest prize, Video of the Year, for 'Firework'. The American singer, who was nominated for 9 awards, also won two Moonmen statues for 'E.T.', her collaboration with Kanye West. These were for Best Collaboration and Best Special Effects.

Adele, who had been nominated seven times, walked off with four Moonmen for 'Rolling In The Deep', awarded before the ceremony held at Los Angeles' Nokia Theatre.

Here is a list of the main award winners:

Video Of The Year: Katy Perry, 'Firework'
Best Female Video: Lady Gaga, 'Born This Way'
Best Male Video: Justin Bieber, 'U Smile'
Best Hip-Hop Video: Nicki Minaj 'Super Bass'
Best New Artist: Tyler, The Creator, 'Yonkers'
Best Pop Video: Britney Spears, 'Till The World Ends'
Best Rock Video: Foo Fighters, 'Walk'
Best Collaboration: Katy Perry Feat. Kanye West, 'E.T.'
Best Video With A Message: Lady Gaga, 'Born This Way'
Best Art Direction: Adele, 'Rolling In The Deep'
Best Choreography: Beyonce, 'Run The World (Girls)'
Best Direction: Adele, 'Rolling In The Deep'
Best Cinematography: Adele, 'Rolling In The Deep'
Best Editing: Adele, 'Rolling In The Deep'
Best SFX (Special Effects): Katy Perry Feat. Kanye West, 'E.T.'

Idols contestant attacked

Idols contestant Freddie van'Dango might not be able to attend tonight's results show after he was involved in a fight outside a bar in Greenside, Johannesburg, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The extent of his injuries is not known, although M-Net spokesperson Lani Lombard denied that his jaw had been broken.

Lombard said M-Net is "taking their cues from the doctor to see whether Freddie will be able to attend the Idols results show" tonight. "The doctor has already confirmed that Freddie should be fit to sing in the next round," she said.

It is reported that the fight began when Van'Dango and a friend complained about the music that was being played in the bar. Van'Dango's father, Matthys Moss, confirmed on Facebook that the Top Eight contender was "brutally attacked in Greenside early on Saturday morning".

Amy Winehouse toxicology results revealed

Amy Winehouse's toxicology results have revealed that the tragic singer had no illegal drugs in her system when she died. She did have alcohol in her body, but it is unknown whether this contributed to her death.

A statement released by her family on Tuesday said: "Toxicology results returned to the Winehouse family by authorities have confirmed that there were no illegal substances in Amy's system at the time of her death. Results indicate that alcohol was present but it cannot be determined as yet if it played a role in her death.

"The family would like to thank the police and coroner for their continuing thorough investigations and for keeping them informed throughout the process. They await the outcome of the inquest in October."

Janet Jackson coming to SA

American superstar Janet Jackson will be bringing her Up Close and Personal tour to South Africa. The five-time Grammy Award winner will perform in Johannesburg at Montecasino on November 11 and 12, and in Cape Town at GrandWest on November 15.

Tony Feldman of Showtime Management, who are organising the shows in association with 94.7 Highveld Stereo and 94.5 Kfm, said: “It is a major coup to have an artist of Janet Jackson's quality performing in such an intimate environment. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see one of the world’s greatest artists performing all her No 1 hits and experience it in small theatres and arenas. Janet is known for her energetic performances and on this tour fans will get to see both her trademark dance numbers as well as her ballads with some additional surprises."

Katy Perry scores 5th No. 1 from Teenage Dream

Katy Perry has become the first woman, and second artist overall following Michael Jackson, in the 53-year history of the Billboard Hot 100 to send five songs from an album to No. 1, as "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" becomes the fifth chart leader from her album "Teenage Dream."

The historic Hot 100 coronation follows the album's prior No. 1s "California Gurls" (featuring Snoop Dogg), the lead single from "Teenage Dream,"; the title cut; "Firework"; and, "E.T." (featuring Kanye West). The album bowed atop the Billboard 200 album chart dated Sept. 11, 2010, and has sold 1.7 million copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Top line-up named for Joburg Day concert

This year's Joburg Day concert, happening at FNB Stadium in Nasrec on September 3, will feature an impressive line-up of local talent, it has been announced.

The bill will include famous names such as Freshlyground, Goodluck, The Arrows, Zebra and Giraffe, Lavuvuzela, Prime Circle, Liquideep, The Parlotones, Lira and Locnville. Lira will headline the event.

Tickets are available at Computicket outlets throughout the country, and they range between R80 and R210.

Justin Bieber is richest teen in Hollywood

Justin Bieber has been named Hollywood's richest teenager by People Magazine. The 17-year-old singer topped the magazine's annual list after earning a reported R371-million in the last year, beating the likes of Miley Cyrus, and his girlfriend Selena Gomez.

Justin's earnings are thought to have increased after the success of his 3D concert movie, 'Never Say Never', and from sales of his new perfume Someday.

Cyrus (18) banked R336-million, while 19-year-old Selena earned R38.5-million.

Will Smith's children Jaden and Willow made R63-million combined, while Jonas Brothers star Nick Jonas racked in an impressive R87.5-million.

Jay-Z tops Forbes' hip hop rich list, again

For the 4th time in 5 years, Jay-Z has topped Forbes magazine's Hip Hop Cash King list. The rap megastar and entrepreneur pulled in a massive $37m in the last 12 months. Jay-Z made slightly more than Diddy, who earned $35m, with Kanye West further back in 3rd place with $16m.

Here is the top 20:

Forbes' Hip-Hop Cash Kings
1. Jay-Z: $37 million
2. Diddy: $35 million
3. Kanye West: $16 million
4. Lil Wayne: $15 million
4. Bryan "Birdman" Williams: $15 million
6. Eminem: $14 million
6. Snoop Dogg: $14 million
6. Dr. Dre: $14 million
9. Akon: $13 million
10. Ludacris: $12 million
11. Wiz Khalifa: $11 million
11. Drake: $11 million
13: Pharrell Williams: $10 million
14. Timbaland: $7 million
15. Swizz Beatz: $6.5 million
15. Nicki Minaj: $6.5 million
17. Rick Ross: $6 million
17. 50 Cent: $6 million
17. Pitbull: $6 million
20. T-Pain: $5 million
20. B.o.B: $5 million

L-Tido nominated for international awards

Local Hip hop artist L-Tido has been nominated for two Afrotainment Museke Online Africa Music Awards.

The 'We rollin' singer is competing in the New Artiste and Best Hip Hop Song categories. "Both categories will be tough as L-Tido gets pitted against some of Africa’s biggest, freshest and brightest stars," says the rapper's manager Thabiso Khati.

Blake Fielder-Civil plans tell-all book on Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse's loser ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil is apparently planning a tell-all book on the star, who died at her home in London last month. Fielder-Civil, who is currently serving a 32 month prison sentence for burglary and possession of an imitation firearm, plans to cash in on the star's death should he receive an acceptable amount of money for it.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Blake's been planning to write a tell-all on Amy since she became famous. When they were together he'd film her, but there are many hours and footage he hasn't released."

What a gent.

Big Boi arrested on drug charges

Outkast rapper Big boi has been arrested and charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance, along with one count of possession of drug paraphernalia after allegedly being found with ecstasy pills, MDMA, and sexual performance-enhancing substance Viagra.

According to website TMZ, the star's haul was discovered by customs officers and border patrol dogs after he left a cruise ship, and bail for the felony offences was set at R112 000.

Patton's lawyer, Daniel Kane, told CNN: "While Big Boi was travelling with his group and friends, a small amount of contraband was found in the collective luggage. I am confident when the entire facts are aired Big Boi will be completely exonerated."

DMX working 'nonstop' on new album

Rapper DMX, who has just got out of jail after spending 7 months inside for violating his parole, says he has been working "nonstop, every day" on his new album, which he plans to release before the end of the year. The 40-year-old hip hop star (real name: Earl Simmons), who was released from prison on July 19, told Billboard.com: "I kind of took it back to how I felt on my first album -- the hunger, the energy, the hardness of it.

"I've had a lot of late nights in the studio, getting it in, getting it back to where it's supposed to be," the star, who's last album was in 2006, said. He said the album would be "bringing hip-hop back to where it's supposed to be. It's not at a good place right now… [There's] a lot of whack rappers out there. It's too corny."

Justin Timberlake's bodyguard arrested

Justin Timberlake's bodyguard has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a member of the paparazzi. The singer was enjoying dinner at the Swanky Nobu restaurant in London when his bodyguard allegedly punched a photographer to the floor. The bodyguard was arrested later at the Dorchester Hotel, where Timberlake is staying.

50 Cent pulls release of new album

Rapper 50 Cent has pulled the release of his new album, blaming his record label, Interscope, and vowing not to work with them again. 50 tweeted :"Man I'm not releasing a album i can't believe interscope is this f***ed up right now. I apologize to all my fans (sic).

"I will work with other artist on there projects but I will not put out another album. They dropped the ball with me one time to many (sic)."

DJ Cleo accuses promoter of sabotage

DJ Cleo, one of the most successful DJ's in South Africa, has accused promoter Bruce Kgapane of holding a personal vendetta against him and sabotaging his shows. After a performance on Saturday 23 July in Bolobedu outside Tzaneen marred by power cuts, Cleo claimed that Kgapane and his wife had a personal vendetta against him and had sabotaged the gig. He said: "Kgapane and his wife have a personal vendetta against me. They have now sabotaged my performances and unexpectedly cut me twice in the same months while performing on stage."

Kgapane denied DJ's claims, dismissing them as far-fetched. He told Sowetan: "I have nothing personal against Cleo. How can I have a vendetta against him when I am the man behind his success? I have gone out to organise performances at government functions in Limpopo and elsewhere for him."

Justin Bieber and father get matching tattoos

Squeaky voiced irritant Justin Bieber and his father have had matching tattoos done. The 17-year-old "Baby" singer already had  two other tattoos, a star on his elbow and a seagull to his hip, and visited a tattooist in Israel with father Jeremy Bieber in May, where they both had 'Yeshua', the Hebrew word for Jesus, etched onto the left side of their torsos. The pair posed together on fan site TheJustinBieberShrine.com showing their inflamed new body art.

Amy Winehouse remembered at funeral

Amy Winehouse's funeral took place on Tuesday 26 July in London at a private ceremony attended by friends and family including collaborator Mark Ronson and Kelly Osbourne. The "Rehab" singer was laid to rest in a Jewish ceremony with Winehouse's father Mitch providing a moving eulogy which he ended by saying "Goodnight, my angel, sleep tight. Mummy and Daddy love you ever so much."

Family spokesman Chris Goodman said: "Mitch was funny, he told some great stories from childhood about how headstrong she was, and clearly the family and friends recognized the stories and laughed along."

Winehouse was found dead at her home in Camden, London over the weekend. The postmortem was inconclusive on the cause of death although drugs are suspected. Results from toxicology reports will take a few weeks to process.

Amy Winehouse found dead in home

Troubled English pop star Amy Winehouse has been found dead in her Camden, London home. Whilst the cause of death will only be announced today, Winehouse had a history of drug and alcohol addiction and recently cancelled a European tour after a disastrous performance in Serbia where she stumbled around, dropped the mike, forgot the words to her songs, left the stage numerous times and mumbled incoherently.

Winehouse was 27 when she died, the same age as Kurt Cobain, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison and Janis Joplin were when they passed away, so her death adds to the notion that 27 is a bogey year for rock and pop stars.

Katy Perry leads VMA nominations

Katy Perry leads the field for the 28th edition of the MTV Video Music Awards with nine nominations. Her nominations came for her videos for "Firework", "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)", "Teenage Dream" and  "E.T."

On her heels are Adele and Kanye West each received seven nominations, followed by Bruno Mars with four and Beyonce, Eminem, Lady Gaga, 30 Seconds to Mars and Nicki Minaj with three apiece.

Britney's ex-bodyguard claims drug use, bad hygiene

Britney Spears' ex-bodyguard Fernando Flores, who filed a lawsuit against the singer last year claiming sexual harassment, has filed a new set of court papers claiming the star took drugs and didn't shower for days.

The documents state: "Based on his former experience as a police officer, Plaintiff (Flores) is informed and believes and alleged thereon that Defendant Spears was often under the influence of illegal prescription and non-prescription drugs, such as Ritalin, Narcon (Naloxone) and methamphetamines," and go on to claim Spears "broke wind or picked her nose unselfconsciously and unapologetically before [Flores] and others and she was constantly and gratuitously loud and profane in her speech.

"She did not bathe for days on end, did not use deodorant, did not brush her teeth, did not fix her hair, did not wear shoes or socks."

Spears' legal team have moved to have Flores claims struck, saying he is trying to "embellish on his tale of lewd and sensational allegations".


Flores is claiming damages of R70m, saying he suffered psychological damage, anxiety attacks, depression, and insomnia as a result of her behaviour.

HHP set to release new album

Hip Hop Pantsula, better known as HHP, is set to release a new album, titled Motswafrika. The album features contributions from Teepee, Tuks Senganaga, Talib Kweli, Raheem Devaughn, Nothende, Thasman, Elemente, DJ Hamma, Gabriel Asheru Benn and the Grammy Nominated Carolyn Malachi.

The lead singled from the album, "Past Time", aired for the first time on Live last Friday.

The release date for the album has been set for 1 September 2011.

DMX released from jail

Hip hop star DMX has been released from prison. The rapper spent eight months behind bars after violating his parole by drinking alcohol during a concert. His probation stemmed from an earlier charge of attempted aggravated assault and using a false name to avoid paying a R52 500.00 hospital bill.

Upon his release DMX (40) told Allhiphop.com: "I spoke to my daughter, I just got off the phone with my wife. I'm going to go see my daughter while the sun is up, then I'm going to be in the studio man."

Jennifer Lopez's marriage was a "roller coaster"

Jennifer Lopez reportedly had a "roller coaster" marriage to Marc Anthony before they eventually parted ways. The couple announced their split last Friday (15 July 2011), but friends have now come out and said that the relationship had been rocky for some time. A source told usmagazine.com: "They had a very up and down marriage, they would get into heated, horrible fights. Then, they would also go through times where they were extremely loving and romantic. It was a roller coaster with them from the beginning."

The marriage was Lopez's third, whilst she has also at various times been engaged to P Diddy and Ben Afleck.

Lira tries to break America

Soul African singing sensation Lira is set to release her first EP, "Lira", in the US on 26 July 2011. Already a superstar on our shores with four platinum albums and a DVD, Lira will promote the release of the EP with a US tour from 24 to 29 July with stops including New York, Washington, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia.

The soul star will follow up the EP with the release of a full-length album, 'Feel Good', on 31 January 2012.

Nicki Minaj injured in hotel altercation

Hip hop star Nicki Minaj was injured during an altercation with her assistant, Safaree Samuels, that occurred at the Palomar Hotel in Dallas, Texas. According to TMZ, the argument began poolside and ended with the two in a hotel room where Samuels, allegedly hit her in the lower lip.

Minaj took to twitter to deny that Samuels had hit her. She tweeted: "The fact that you believe a man either slapped or punched me in the face & didn't leave on a stretcher w/his balls handgun off? #getaF*ckinLife."

However, the official incident report described Minaj's injuries: "Reporting officers observed slight swelling and redness to [Minaj's] chin. [Minaj's] teeth struck the inside of her lower lip, causing the inside of the lower lip to cut and start to bleed."

Minaj declined to file a report of the incident with police.

YFM launches TV channel

Radio station YFM has launched their own low bandwidth internet-based television channel, called YTV. The channel was developed over the past three years by immedia, in partnership with the University of Cape Town and the CSIR, and is the first of its kind in Africa.

The station's music and digital manager Mervyn Sigamoney had the following to say about the launch: "It is not meant to be a high-definition offering but rather caters to the bandwidth needs of our audience and in so doing, adds a personal touch by putting our listeners in studio with the DJ in real time. Until now, local radio stations have only been able to offer a video picture that refreshes every few minutes. In comparison, YTV is live, real time coverage or more simply - TV broadcasting on the Internet."

Kwaito star arrested for kidnapping girlfriend

Kwaito star Nkosana Thwala, from the group GP Gangsta, has been arrested for allegedly kidnapping his girlfriend and forcing her to "smoke drugs".

Thwala was arrested on Wednesday after he allegedly apprehended his 19 year old girlfriend, "took her to his house which is also in Soweto, kept her in a room, and while pointing a firearm at her, forced her to smoke drugs" Warrant Officer Kay Makhubela told Sapa. The woman escaped through a window and alerted police.

Thwala, also known as "Nsimbi", will appear in the Protea Magistrate's Court on Thursday 7 July on charges of kidnapping and pointing a firearm.

Pete Doherty released from prison

Troubled rocker Pete Doherty has been released from prison earlier than expected. The Babyshambles frontman and former Libertine was sentenced to six months jail on 20 May for possession of cocaine, and though he was not expected to serve his full sentence, his release still comes a month earlier than had been predicted. The following statement was posted on his Albion Rooms website on Tuesday 5 July: "On this bright sunny morning Peter was released from prison and thanks everyone for their valued support whilst inside."

Doherty's troubles are far from over though - he faces more charges of breaking into a record shop in Germany and stealing a guitar and could find himself behind bars once again in the not too distant future.

Eminem's Recovery becomes first album to sell 1m downloads

According to Nielsen SoundScan, this week Eminem's Recovery has become the first album to sell a million downloads in the United States. Since SoundScan began tracking digital album sales in 2005, a total of 12 titles have sold at least 500,000 downloads, but up until now none has passed the million mark. Including physical sales, Recovery has now sold 3.9m copies in America.

Recovery was only just the first album passed the million mark - Adele's 21 is expected to pass the milestone next week.

Freshlyground and Goldfish team up for RWC song

South African bands Goldfish and Freshlground have teamed up to create "Let's Do It Again", the official SARU song for IRB Rugby World Cup 2011. Goldfish's Dave Poole said: "It was a great experience as it developed in a really organic way. We pretty much got together and jammed, then figured out some bits for everyone to play and off we went. Doing a song which is intended to help unite the country is a great task which I think both groups were up to."

"Let's Do It Again" will be available for digital download on Friday 15 July from http://omusic.dstv.com/

2Face and D'banj share BET African award

Two popular Nigerian hip hop artists, D'banj and 2face, were both awarded the Best International Act (Africa) title at the BET Awards.

The pair beat off stiff competition from the other nominated African artists to share the prize.

This year was the first year the BET Awards, which gives acclaim to black artists in the entertainment industry, included awards for artists outside of the US.

Chris Brown dominated the awards, taking home four on the night.

Jozi to host reality show

Hip hop act Jozi are set to release a reality television show called The Moving City. Describing the show, Jozi rapper Da L.E.S. told the Sowetan: "As part of the reality show we visit various villages in a bid to find an authentic traditional sound. We also create a song that reflects the sound of the area, which will be included in a compilation. The reality show will be a 13-part series that will be aired towards the end of the year. Though we have not signed any broadcast deal we know that it will be on the air. We are tracing the roots of the motherland's sound."

Kylie extends SA tour

Pop superstar Kylie Minogue has added an extra date to the South African leg of her Aphrodite tour due to popular demand. She will play an extra date at the Sun City Superbowl on 10 July 2011. Kylie said of her forthcoming trip to SA: "I have been looking for an opportunity to perform in South Africa for a very long time so I am really delighted that I can now confirm I will be visiting Johannesburg and Cape Town in July this year. I’ve been having a wonderful time touring 'Aphrodite' and I’m absolutely thrilled I will be able to bring Aphrodite Live to South Africa."

The full SA tour schedule is:
 
Sun City Superbowl Johannesburg
Friday 8 July 2011
Saturday 9 July 2011
Sunday 10 July

Grand Arena in Cape Town
Wednesday 13 July 2011
Thursday 14 July, 2011

Hip hop stars gather at Mbombela Festival

Hip hop stars Zakes Bantwini, Professor, Theo Kgosinkwe, and Teargas will all be in action at the inaugural Mbombela Music Festival. The new festival, presented by Hilltop Live in association with Amstel Lager and Ligwalagwala fm, will take place on 9 July at the Mbombela Stadium Precinct, in Nelspruit.

In addition to the live talent, a line up of Mpumalanga DJs - DJ Chrizozo, DJ Madumane, DJ Stax, and DJ Sdoko - will also be performing.

Gates open at 11am and the event ends at 11pm. Tickets are available at: www.ticketbreak.co.za.

Jub Jub to record song for drag racing victims

Hip hop artist Jub Jub is reportedly recording a song in honour of the school children that died during his alleged drag race in Soweto on 8 March last year. Jub Jub, real name Molemo Maarohanye, and Themba Tshabalala face charges of murder, attempted murder and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The pair were allegedly drag racing in Soweto when they crashed into the children, killing four of them.

Buju Banton sentenced to 10 years in prison

Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton, real name Mark Myrie, was sentenced to 10 years in jail on Thursday for conspiring to set up a cocaine deal. Banton was found guilty of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and using a telephone to facilitate a drug trafficking offense.

Despite pleas for leniency from many of Banton's 15 children, a former Jamaican government official, an NBA player, other reggae artists and actor Danny Glover, who called Banton a "role model, philanthropist and spiritual leader in the community", the minimum sentence for Banton's transgressions was stipulated as 10 years and the judge duly handed down the minimum sentence.

Chris Brown in trouble, again

Chris Brown is trouble again after allegedly using a gay slur against journalists he accused of tipping off police that his car was illegally parked. The "Look At Me Now" singer has apologised for his outburst, saying: "I have total respect for Gay community and my intention was not to insult anyone in it."

Brown infamously assaulted then girlfriend Rihanna in 2009 in a fit of jealousy. He was handed a suspended sentence and community service for that misdemeanor, but it appears that the public has a longer memory than the law and since then he has been criticised at every available opportunity.  

Freshlyground in the US

Local band Freshlyground have headed off on a 17 date tour of America and Canada. The group have shows scheduled in New York, Chicago, Washington, San Francisco, Vancouver, Seattle and Boston, amongst other places.They will also appear at the Montreal Jazzfest alongside heavyweights such as Prince, Angelique Kidjo and Ben Harper.

Chevelle to play in S.A.

American metal band Chevelle have been confirmed to be appearing at the Oppikoppi Festival, which runs from 5 - 7 August in Northam. In addition to their Oppikoppi appearance, the band will also be performing at the Grand West Arena in Cape Town on 8 August.

Chevelle join other confirmed acts Sum 41, Michelle Shocked, Zebra and Giraffe, and Die Antwoord at the Oppikoppi Festival.

Amy Winehouse cancels summer tour

Following a disastrous concert in Belgrade (Serbia), Amy Winehouse has cancelled the rest of the 12 dates of her summer European tour.

Winehouse, who has a history of drug and alcohol problems and has just got out from a stint in rehab, stumbled around the stage, forgot the words to her songs and dropped the microphone in a shambolic performance in Belgrade that was roundly booed by the crowd. Serbian media declared the concert "the worst in the history of Belgrade.''

Ishmael admits drug problem

Ishmael “Ish” Morabe, one half of hugely popular hip hop outfit Jozi, on Friday revealed his addiction to cocaine on SABC1’s top music show Live.

Morabe has spent some time in rehab and has now been clean for four weeks. He said he had been taking cocaine for the past 11 years.

Morabe said: “It ruled my life and affected my work, health, finances, and caused friction between me and my family.”

Sum 41 coming to S.A.

Canadian rockers Sum 41 will be in South Africa in August to perform at the Oppikoppi Festival and at the Wavehouse in Durban. The band have had hits with songs like In Too Deep and Fat Lip and tour extensively around the world.

Tickets for the Oppikoppi Festival are available at Ticketbreak SA.

Police foil Joss Stone kidnap plot

Police have arrested two men who were acting suspiciously outside the home of pop star Joss Stone. When arrested, the men were found to be in possession of swords, rope, a body bag, detailed maps and aerial photos of the star's property, leading police to believe they were planning a raid on Stone's home.

A 20-strong team of detectives in both Devon and Manchester is now working on the case, with Stone being kept informed of developments.

DJ Kent sends Zim fans into frenzy

South African DJ Kent wowed fans in Zimbabwe, who went wild during his set at Sports 747 in Bulawayo.

Many people had predicted that his counterpart DJ Cndo would present the best performance at the show but DJ Kent came out to thunderous applause from the gathered fans, who only got more enthusiastic as the set went on. The performance proved the massive fanbase DJ Kent has, even outside our borders.

Parlotones to support Coldplay

The Parlotones have been chosen to support Coldplay at their upcoming concert dates in South Africa. Coldplay will be playing at Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday 5 October and Soccer City Complex, FNB Stadium Johannesburg on Saturday 8 October, and the Parlotones will be the support act at both concerts.

The Parlotones said: "There is only one band in the world that we would support in our home country and what an honour it was to be invited by that very band. Coldplay has been an inspiration to us and we are very excited to have the privilege of sharing the stage with the greatest band in the world."

Westlife coming back to SA

Irish boy band Westlife are returning to South Africa in September. The group will play at Supersport Park in Centurion on Saturday 17 September, 2011. Tickets are available at www.ticketbreak.co.za

Jennifer Lopez sex tape recovered

A sex tape featuring Jennifer Lopez and ex-husband Ojani Noa, which he had tried to sell, has been recovered and will be locked in a safe deposit box at the City National Bank in Century City, California to which Lopez's attorney, Jay Lavely, will maintain possession of the key.

Before the tapes are locked up, Jennifer will be allowed to view the footage as will Noa and his current girlfriend Claudia Vazquez.

Police assault Locnville

Brian and Andrew Chaplin of Locnville fame have claimed they were attacked by police after another group of people insulted the band at a petrol station in Claremont, Cape Town. Andrew Chaplin told Eyewitness News: "Someone said something really inappropriate to us as people but for some reason the police followed us and stopped us in the middle of the road and attacked us. I cannot stand for that." The duo said in a series of tweets that Brian was maced by police, whilst another of their friends was punched in the face.

It is unclear whether the brothers will lay charges against the SAPS.

Lil Wayne sued, again

Rap star Lil Wayne's Cash Money record label is being sued by producer David Kirkwood for unpaid royalties relating to the track Love Me Or Hate Me, which featured on the deluxe editon of Lil Wayne's album "Tha Carter III."

Kirkwood is now the third producer to sue for unpaid royalties relating to "Tha Carter III." Producer  Bangladesh was the first to claim he wasn't paid for a track from the album, Billboard Rap Songs No. 1 track, "A Milli." Darius "Deezle" Harrison also filed a lawsuit against Wayne for $20 million of unpaid royalties from sales of "Tha Carter III" relating to his work on Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 track, "Lollipop."

Jackson insurers refuse to pay out

Lloyds of London, who insured Michael Jackson's 50 night residency at London's O2 arena, are refusing to pay out on the policy. They insist the document is invalid because promoters AEG Live failed to supply details of the apparent "prescription drug use and/or addiction" which caused the megastar's death before the concerts were due to start.

Lawyers for Jackson's estate insist the claim should still stand. Attorney Howard Weitzman told TMZ: "This legal action is nothing more than an insurance company trying to avoid paying a legitimate claim by the insured."

Noel Gallagher wants Liam at his wedding

Noel Gallagher wants his brother Liam to attend his 18 June wedding to Sara MacDonald despite not having spoken to him since a huge bust up in 2009 that led to the break up of their previous band Oasis.

Noel told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "He is my brother. He is a tit but he's my brother so I guess he should be there. Yeah, I would want him there. Family is family on days like that and it would make a lot of people happy. But he'll always be a complete t**t."

So not quite an olive branch then, but it's a start!

Lauryn Hill pregnant again

Hip hop star Lauryn is pregnant with her sixth child. The ex-Fugees rapper and singer announced at a concert in Detroit that she was "taking time off to give birth." Hill is married to Stephen Marley, son of the late reggae singer Bob Marley.

Sean Kingston's condition improves

Sean Kingston's condition has been changed from critical to "serious" according to a statement issued by his rep to Billboard.com Monday (June 6). The pop singer, who has been in Miami's Jackson Memorial Hospital since a jet ski accident on May 29, is also "breathing on his own and walked for the first time this morning. Sean thanks his friends, family and fans for their outpouring of prayers and well wishes."

Warning for Winehouse

Amy Winehouse has been warned that if she doesn't stop drinking she will die. The wayward singer checked into the exclusive Priory Clinic rehab centre last week, and was reportedly warned that if she carries on the way she is she won't have long to live.

Winehouse was reportedly seen buying a bottle of vodka on her way to the clinic last week and drinking it before she checked herself in. Good start then!

Born This Way sells over 1m copies in first week

Lady Gaga's new album, Born This Way, has sold over 1,108,000 copies in the U.S. in it's first week of release to debut at #1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. According to Nielsen Soundscan, 662,000 of those purchases were digital, a record in the Soundscan era.

Sean Kingston still in critical condition

Pop star Sean Kingston remains in 'critical but stable' condition after he crashed his jet ski into Miami Beach's Palm Island Bridge on Sunday (29 May). With Kingston was a female passenger, Cassandra Sanchez, who escaped from the accident relatively unscathed.

Jackson Memorial Hospital, where the 21-year-old singer is recuperating, issued the following statement to Billboard.com: "Sean Kingston is currently in critical but stable condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida. Sean's family asks for privacy at this time but is thankful to his friends, family and fans for their outpouring of prayers and well wishes."

Kelly Khumalo reveals Jub-Jub abuse

Afro-pop singer Kelly Khumalo has revealed that she is in therapy after suffering physical abuse at the hands of ex-boyfriend Jub-Jub. Khumalo accused Jub-Jub of attacking both her and her mother, and also said the hip hop star cheated on her constantly. She said Jub-Jub smashed a bottle over her head and punched her mother in the face when Khumalo refused to let him borrow her car.

Khumalo said: "We thought the first one was a mistake, but the second time he was nothing but a dog. That’s when I decided it's over. I can't be with someone who can lay a hand on my mom."

American Idol winner announced

Scotty McCreery has won the 10th season of American Idol. After a record 122.4 million votes were cast, 17 year old McCreery beat out stiff competition from 16 year old Lauren Alaina to claim the crown.

Cheryl Cole axed from X-Factor

Cheryl Cole has been axed from American version of The X-Factor before it's even aired. According to TMZ.com, Cole's thick accent made her unintelligible to American audiences, and she has been replaced by Pussycat Doll (and Lewis Hamilton's girlfriend) Nicole Scherzinger. 

Old interview reveals Dylan herion addiction

A previously unheard interview with Bob Dylan, recorded in 1966, has been uncovered, and in it the legendary singer reveals that he beat a heroin addiction in the early 60's whilst living in New York City.

Dylan, who turned 70 yesterday (24 May) said: "I kicked a heroin habit in New York City. I got very, very strung out for a while, I mean really, very strung out. And I kicked the habit. I had about a $25-a-day habit and I kicked it."

Eminem, Justin Bieber win big at Billboard Awards

Eminem and Justin Bieber were the big winners at the Billboard Music Awards on 22 May, picking up 6 awards each.

The rapper took home the prizes for Top Artist, Top Rap Artist, Top Male Artist, Top Billboard 200 Album and Top Rap Album for 'Recovery', as well as Top Rap Song for 'Love The Way You Lie', his duet with Rihanna.
 
The Bieb won awards for Top New Artist, Top Pop Album for 'My World 2.0', Top Social Artist, Top Digital Media Artist, Top Streaming Artist and Top Streaming Song (Video) for 'Baby'.




Other winners included Rihanna, who took home the coveted Top Female Artist award, Lady Gaga, Usher, Taio Cruz, Taylor Swift and indie rockers Mumford and Sons, who won 3 awards each. Beyonce picked up the prestigious Millennium Award for her contribution to music over the course of her career.

Jub Jub trial resumes

The trial of hip-hop artist Molemo "Jub Jub" Maarohanye and Themba Tshabalala is will resume in the Protea magistrate's court in Soweto today. The pair are accused of murder after allegedly drag racing under the influence of drugs and alcohol, which led to the deaths of four schoolchildren.

Nicki Minaj approves of substance-free Britney tour

Nicki Minaj, who is supporting Britney Spears on her "Femme Fatale" world tour, has said she thinks it's "great" that the tour will be totally substance free. Spears is trying to avoid the temptations of alcohol and other substances by banning them from the tour completely.

Minaj told Life & Style magazine: "I think it's a great thing. If that's the way Britney wants it, so be it. She's the queen of her castle. It trickles down and makes everyone responsible."

Snoop Dogg to perform at Kate Moss' wedding

Hip hop star Snoop Dogg is set to perform a set at Kate Moss' wedding. The supermodel is marrying Kills rocker Jamie Hince on 2 July in England, and has reportedly put together a wish list of acts she would like to play at the bash. Apparently she is also hoping to get the likes of Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones and Gossip frontwoman Beth Ditto to perform at what is turning into a "mini-festival".

An insider recently revealed: "Kate wants it to be a party to remember and like a small festival. She doesn't want her guests to leave for days so she's making sure there is plenty of food and entertainment."  

Professor scoops 3 SAMA's

Kwaito star Professor was the biggest winner at Saturday's SAMA awards, picking up 3 awards on the night. His awards included the coveted Artist of the Year award. Other winners included Locnville and Liquideep, who won two awards each, the Parlotones, Prime Circle, Jax Panik, Kurt Darren, DJ Kent and DJ Cleo.

Teargas nominated for international award

Local hip hop crew Teargas have been nominated for a Black Entertainment Television Award (BET award). They have been nominated in the Best International Act: Africa category at the prestigious American awards show. The other nominees in the category are 2Face Idibia, D' Banj, D-Black, Fally Ipupa and Angelique Kidjo. The winners of the BET awards will be announced in Los Angeles on 26 June.

Rihanna offer Chris Brown twitter olive branch

Pop star Rihanna has become a follower of Chris Brown on twitter and he has in turn decided to follow her on the micro-blogging site, signalling a thawing in their relationship. Until recently, Brown had a restraining order preventing him from being within 30m of the "S&M" star, following an incident two years ago in which he assaulted Rihanna, his then-girlfriend.

Oppikoppi announces first batch of performers

Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Not My Dog, aKING, Bittereinder and Jax Panik are the first names announced by the Oppikoppi festival organisers to perform at this years festival.

A spokesperson for the festival said: "The line-up for 2011 is being announced in batches and fans are encouraged to visit or “like” the Facebook group “OppiKoppi festival” for all information. As in the past it is a selection of South Africa’s finest and a few nice international faces."

Timbaland, Fat Joe, Ciara, Lil Kim to perform in SA

Timbaland, Ciara, Lil Kim, Fat Joe and DJ scratch will perform in South Africa in June this year, according to local concert promoter ZAR Entertainment. The stars will perform at the Zarfest, which kicks off in Harare on 27 May and includes performances at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 2 June, Joburg's Coca Cola Dome on 3 June, and Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on 4 June.

ZAR Entertainment is yet to reveal ticket vendors for the festival.

Coldplay coming to SA

Big Concerts has announced that Coldplay will be touring South Africa. The soft-rock titans will be playing in Joburg and Cape Town.

Big Concerts' statement read: "Big Concerts is proud to announce that Coldplay will be performing live for the first time ever in South Africa on Wednesday 5th October at Cape Town Stadium and Saturday 8th October at FNB Stadium Johannesburg. The tour is presented by 94.5 KFM, 94.7 Highveld Stereo and M-Net."

Coldplay have sold over 50m albums worldwide with hits such as "Yellow" and "Clocks".

Whitney Houston in rehab

Whitney Houston has sought treatment at an outpatient rehab program to help her deal with drug and alcohol problems.The singer's spokesperson told People.com: "Whitney Houston is currently in an out-patient rehab program for drug and alcohol treatment. Whitney voluntarily entered the program to support her long-standing recovery process."

Houston wants to make sure she is in good shape for filming the sequel to her 1995 movie Waiting to Exhale, in which she will star with Angela Bassett.

JR releases video for "Show Goes On"

Local rapper JR has finally released the video for his current hit single "Show Goes On", which features Jack Parow and Die Heuwels Fantasties. The video, produced by Bruce Patterson and Helen Raine of Pilot Films, has garnered favourable reactions on YouTube.

Zim Ngqawana passes away

Renowned South African saxophonist Zimasile “Zim” Ngqawana passed away on Tuesday morning after suffering a stroke during a band rehearsal on Saturday. The musician, who has played with the like Hugh Masekela and Abdullah Ibrahim, was scheduled to perform at the Wits Literature and Arts Experience (WALE) on Saturday but suffered a stroke during rehearsals at his home in Troyeville, Johannesburg.

Ngqawana, who was 51 when he died, had several top selling albums and won 5 SAMA awards in his career.

Plush release new album

One of South Africa's best rock bands of the last few years, Plush, released their new self-titled album today. The band have spent the last two years on the album, and having enlisted the help of the likes of Grammy winning engineer Vance Powell (The Raconteurs, Jack White), Neal Snyman (Crowded House, Collective Soul) and Sama-winner Matt Allison, the expectations are high. Look out for the review in the coming week!

Kylie to come to SA

International superstar Kylie Minogue has announced four South African dates for her Aphrodite Live world tour. She will be performing at the Sun City Superbowl in Johannesburg on 8 and 9 July and the Grand Arena in Cape Town on 13 and 14 July.
Kylie said: "I have been looking for an opportunity to perform in South Africa for a very long time so I am really delighted that I can now confirm I will be visiting Johannesburg and Cape Town in July this year. I've been having a wonderful time touring Aphrodite and I'm absolutely thrilled I will be able to bring 'Aphrodite Live' to South Africa."

Top local acts to appear at Nelson Mandela Bay International Music Festival

Several of the top acts in the country will be appearing at the Nelson Mandela Bay International Music Festival at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on 14 May in support of George Benson and Hugh Masakela. Acts confirmed include Prime Circle, Freshlyground, Jamali, Goldfish and Loyiso. Tickets for the concert range from R50 - R400 and are available from Computicket.

Taxi Violence tour dates

Taxi Violence will be touring South Africa in support of their latest album, Long Way From Home. The tour kicks off this Friday (6 May) Joburg and finishes off on Saturday 21 May in Port Elizabeth.

All shows are unplugged/semi-acoustic.

Tour dates are as follows:
Friday, 6 May: Tanz Cafe, Johannesburg
Saturday, 7 May: Taco Zula, Durban
Sunday, 8 May: Park Acoustics, Pretoria
Wednesday, 11 May: Iziko Planetarium, Cape Town
Thursday, 12 May: Dorpstraat Teater, Stellenbosch
Sunday, 15 May: Silvertree Restaurant, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town
Thursday, 19 May: Swing Cafe, Knysna
Friday, 20 May: The Union, Steve Biko Building, Grahamstown
Saturday, 21 May: Pool City, Port Elizabeth

Kwesta wins international award

Local rapper Kwesta has been named ‘The World’s Grittiest Rapper’ in America’s SOHH True Grit Awards, which recognize up-and-coming hip-hop talent across the world. The good news follow hot on the heels of Kwesta's nomination for 2 SAMA awards. The Joburg wordsmith is certainly hot property at the moment!

Beyoncé sued for $100mil

A $100m Lawsuit has been filed by software developer Gate Five LLC against Beyoncé and her company, Beyoncé, Inc, after the singer reportedly bailed out on creating a “motion-sensing dance video” titled “Starpower: Beyoncé”.

Gate Five is holding the star, who is referred to as Ms. Carter, accountable for “a bad faith breach of contract so callous that, on what appeared to be a whim, she destroyed Gate Five’s business and drove 70 people into unemployment, the week before Christmas.” Representatives for Beyoncé have yet to respond to requests for a comment.

A Gay Star for Christina

Christina Aguilera is set to become the first star to appear on the new Gay Walk of Fame in Hollywood. She was chosen for the honour for all the work she has done supporting gay rights and equality.

Dr. Dre Wins Lawsuit against Death Row

Dr. Dre has successfully sued his former label, Death Row Records, for improperly selling his 1992 album ‘The Chronic’ digitally and using some of his music on compilation albums without his permission. It was also found that WIDEawake Death Row Records had failed to pay Dre properly from online sales of the LP.