Hot Video Alert: Rye Rye - Boom Boom

I am LOVING Rye Rye right about now. She's a little spitfire isn't she?  21 year old Rye Rye first caught my attention with her single, "Never Will Be Mine", featuring Swedish electropop Goddess Robyn.  "Never Will Be Mine," released nearly a year ago, served as Rye Rye's second official single from her forthcoming album, Go! Pop! Bang!, which is due out May 15th via controversial artist M.I.A.'s own Interscope Records imprint, N.E.E.T.  Rye Rye's latest offering is a feisty little ditty called "Boom Boom," which heavily samples the Vengaboys' 1998 international hit "Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom" in the chorus.  Clever Rye Rye. Very clever.

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Hot Video Alert: Dionne Bromfield feat. Mz. Bratt - Ouch

Pity that 15 year old singer/songwriter Dionne Bromfield's sophomore album didn't do better than it did.  When Bromfield first arrived on the scene as the first artist signed to Amy Winehouse's record label, Lioness, she was the talk of the town and while her first album, 2009's Introducing Dionne Bromfield, wasn't exactly a resounding success (it peaked at #33 on the Official UK Albums Chart) it was a sweet taste of what the then 13 year old Bromfield had to offer.  Ultimately realizing (and rightfully so) that she couldn't sing Motown covers for the rest of her life, young Bromfield embarked on the path to pop music releasing her second album, Good For The Soul in July.  

The album went on to peak at a disappointing #53 on the Official UK Albums Chart and spawned only one charting single in the UK, the Diggy Simmons-assisted "Yeah Right," which debuted at #36 on the Official UK Singles Chart.  Follow up singles, "Foolin'' and "Ouch" failed to impact the charts at all, nor did her and Tinchy Stryder's Olympic promo track "Spinnin' for 2012."  Despite having a rough July with the passing of her beloved Godmother on July 23rd, Bromfield was a trooper, performing live in support of The Wanted only two hours after learning of her Godmother's death.  In October, Bromfield took to the stage yet again, this time at the 2011 MOBO Awards where she performed a heartfelt tribute to Amy, covering "Love Is A Losing Game."  Despite her lack of chart success, it's important to keep in mind how young Bromfield is.  The girl is only 15 and just at the beginning of her undoubtedly long career.  Already stepping up her game by co-writing much of her sophomore album, Bromfield has what it takes to succeed in the industry and I think, thanks in large part to her Godmother's faith in her, she will.

Check out the Arjun Rose-directed video for "Ouch," a promotional single released in support of the English horror film, Demons Never Die (also directed by Rose and starring X-Factor judge & N-Dubz member Tulisa Contostavlos) and featuring up & coming rapper Mz. Bratt.  The song is a revamped version of "Ouch That Hurt," taken from Good For The Soul.  Download "Ouch" on UK iTunes HERE.

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

Hot Video Alert: Dionne Bromfield & Tinchy Stryder - Spinnin' For 2012

Back towards the end of September, UK singer (and burgeoning songwriter) Dionne Bromfield released "Spinnin' For 2012" alongside electro-rapper Tinchy Stryder as "The Official Olympic Torch Song."  The song is meant to promote London as the host of the 2012 Olympic Games due to begin July 27th and promote it does. The video (directed by American music video director Rage) features footage of a sleek, new Mini Convertible as well as lots of obligatory shots of London.  The video serves it's purpose, both as a PR agent for the Olympic Games as well as a PR agent for the two stars, Ms. Bromfield and Mr. Stryder. 

The single was digitally released September 23rd in the UK via Lioness Records and Universal Island Records.  While "Spinnin' For 2012" does contain new lyrics (written by both Bromfield and Stryder), the song itself is not new.  Originally written and performed by Mercury Prize-winning English rapper Speech Debelle,  the song was featured on her debut album, Speech Therapy (via Big Dada Records) and released as the album's last single in September of 2009.  Here's hoping Debelle makes a cut off this newly re-worked version because it sounds like the girl could use a hug. Debelle is notable for having the worst ever chart showing and performance by a Mercury Prize winner, selling only 10,000 units in it's first month of release.  To put it all in perspective - 2008 winner Elbow sold over 300,000 copies of their debut album, while the debut album of 2010 winners The xx went platinum shortly after winning the esteemed prize.  

Check out the video for the TMS-produced single below (U.S. readers check out the video HERE) and look out for dance remixes by Steve Smart & WestFunk. Download the single on UK iTunes HERE.

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

 

Check out Tinchy Stryder on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

Dionne Bromfield Unveils 'Foolin'" Music Video, Sophomore Album Due Next Month

Dionne Bromfield is a promising young talent from across the pond that I've been championing for some time now. She's only 15 years old but the talent that emanates from this girl is astounding. On her debut album, Introducing Dionne Bromfield, this young star sang her heart out on Motown classics like "Tell Him," "Mama Said," and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," sounding like a singer straight out of the Motown era. With a voice as distinctive as Bromfield's, when I heard she was doing an album of original material for her sophomore release, I was both excited and nervous at the same time. Her voice seems tailor made for old soul songs like the ones found on her debut...how was she going to morph and change that sound to appear more relevant and current without sacrificing her individuality?  It sounded like a gamble to me.  Luckily, it was a gamble that paid off.

In February, Dionne Bromfield released "Yeah Right," and offered fans the first tidbit from her new album, Good For The Soul.  Any doubt I had quickly faded away.  The song mixed old with new, maintaining some of those classic Motown elements that defined Bromfield's debut, adding in the fresh sounds of up & coming U.S. rapper Diggy Simmons.  While the song wasn't a bonafide hit, peaking at #36 on the UK Singles Chart, it did best Bromfield's last charting single, "Mama Said," which only managed a #43 spot on the charts.

Due out on June 20th via Lioness/Island Records, Dionne Bromfield's new single, "Foolin'" features another rising U.S. hip-hop talent, Lil Wayne protege and fellow Young Money Millionaire Lil Twist. The stunning video for "Foolin'" features Bromfield playing three different characters, each decked out in a different look, all of them playing off the whole retro, vintage look that has defined her career thus far. The super fun video features Chris and Wes, winners of the UK version of So You Think You Can Dance, though Lil Twist appears to be missing.

Dionne Bromfield's sophomore album, Good For The Soul, is scheduled for release on June 27th via her God Mother, Amy Winehouse's label, Lioness Records, distributed through Island Records. In writing the album, Bromfield flew to L.A. and worked with hitmakers including Toby Gad (Rihanna, Beyonce). In addition to a new sound, Bromfield also found her voice as a writer on Good For The Soul, co-writing with Gad as well as with John Paul 'Bluey' Maunick, Duffy collaborator Steve Booker and Dusty Springfield/Amy Winehouse collaborator Paul O'Duffy. Together with the help of these industry professionals, Bromfield is ready to share with the world her new and very different album. According to the press release:

"'Good For The Soul' is absolutely the birth of Dionne Bromfield: the artist. ‘To be honest, it couldn’t feel further away from the first one, which I love and I loved making. But this is next level and it had to be.’ It is a sound that fits perfectly into the catalogue of a new British soul tradition, of artists like Plan B and Paloma Faith that have contemporised their Motown leanings, freshly minting them for a brand new generation."

Well said.  Check out the stunning video for "Foolin'" below and get ready to download the single on iTunes starting on June 20th.  Look out for remixes from Bellatrax and Seamus Haji.  Good For The Soul is out June 27th.

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

Bring On The Remixes: Dionne Bromfield & Matthew Morrison Get Dance Floor Makeovers

You all know I love a good remix and when it comes to pop remixes, the UK knows where it's at! 15 year old UK singer Dionne Bromfield is getting her club on with remixes for her new single, "Foolin'," lifted off her forthcoming sophomore album, Good For The Soul (Lioness/Island). Bromfield, who just so happens to be Amy Winehouse's God Daughter, released her debut album of Motown covers back in 2009 where it managed to peak at #33 on the UK Albums chart. Due out June 27th, Good For The Soul features new music (not covers), including first single "Yeah Right," featuring American rapper Diggy Simmons which was a Top 40 hit for Bromfield on the UK Singles Chart. 

No stranger to remixes, Bromfield's debut single "Mama Said" was remixed by Vito Benito, "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" got the Desert Eagles remix treatment, while "Yeah Right" saw remixes from SoundBwoy, Club Junkies, and Mario Basanov.   New single, "Foolin'" featuring Lil Twist takes things up a notch, getting re-fixed by the fabulous Seamus Haji (Dannii Minogue, Sugababes, Rihanna, Mariah Carey) and equally fantastic Bellatrax (Annie Lennox, CockNBullKid, Kylie Minogue, Tina Cousins, Sophia May). Check out the amazing Bellatrax remix BELOW. Bromfield's "Foolin'" is due out June 26th, the same date as her sophomore album so get ready!

Dionne Bromfield - Foolin (Bellatrax Mix) by Bellatrax

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

Next up we have Glee actor and pop singer, Matthew Morrison. While I find his solo material to be super super cheesy, much like his Glee tunes, I was secretly hoping for some fabulous remixes for Morrison's debut UK single release, "Summer Rain." The single didn't really have much of an impact on the charts when it was released here in America back in March but it looks like they're trying for a club chart smash over across the pond. Remixed by Almighty, Morrison's sleepy, summery pop tune gets worked over for the dance clubs in a big way. Check out the radio edit below and tell me what you think. Morrison's debut self titled album is due out May 10th in America and May 29th in the UK. U.S. fans can download "Summer Rain" on iTunes HERE as well as his latest single, "Still Got Tonight" HERE.

Check out Matthew Morrison on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

Dionne Bromfield Shows Off 'Yeah Right' Artwork, Gets Support from Godmother Amy Winehouse

@amyjademermaid: Didi you look stunning. I'm so proud, go on baby!

How's that for a vote of confidence? While I'm sure there's some bias there, considering Amy Winehouse is Dionne Bromfield's Godmother, she's right. Listening to her voice, it's really hard to believe that Bromfield is only 15 years old! I praised Bromfield's new single, "Yeah Right," as being AN ORIGINAL and I stand by that. Considering that Bromfield's entire debut was filled with covers, Bromfield had a lot resting on her young shoulders. She had to DELIVER a hit single and deliver she did. Due out March 6th on Lioness Records/Universal the single features Rev Run Simmons' son Diggy Simmons on the rap portion. Diggy's Pops even took to Twitter to show his support, saying "this girl can sing wow wow."

Check out the Emil Nava-directed video below and check out the fabulous artwork up top. "Yeah Right" is the first single off of Bromfield's forthcoming sophomore record, Good For The Soul, due out in the Spring.

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

Hot Video Alert: Dionne Bromfield feat. Diggy Simmons - Yeah Right

As much as I enjoyed Dionne Bromfield's first album, made up entirely of Motown covers, I knew it wasn't a formula for a long career. Sure, artists like Michael Bublé have made careers out of covering standards but for a 15 year-old talent like Bromfield, I knew that her sophomore record had to be something more original, literally. First single, "Yeah Right," is original alright. It's a complete original and I love everything about it. Dionne Bromfield still maintains her Motown sound while singing something that's current...something that's right now. Featuring an appearence from up & coming U.S. rapper, reality star and son of Rev. Run Simmons - Diggy Simmons - "Yeah Right" is a soulful, sassy anthem and the perfect vehicle to re-launch Bromfield into the musical spotlight.

Check out the fun video BELOW, directed by Emil Nava (Parade, Jessie J), featuring Dionne Bromfield, Diggey Simmons and a crew of back up dancers shaking their stuff around a fancy old hotel. Bromfield is signed to Lioness Records, an imprint of Univeral/Island Records, started by her Godmother, singer/songwriter Amy Winehouse. "Yeah Right" is the first single to be released off Bromfield's sophomore album, Good For The Soul, due out in the Spring.

"The album is a collection of all new soul songs co-written by Dionne and some of the UK's premier songwriters, and looks set to establish her as a writer and genuine star in her own right. Good For The Soul is absolutely the birth of Dionne Bromfield: the artist. It is a sound that fits perfectly into the catalogue of a new British soul tradition, of artists like Plan B and Paloma Faith that have contemporised their Motown leanings, freshly minting them for a brand new generation"

Perfect! This is exactly what I had in mind for Bromfield's sophomore record. Keep the soul, but make it modern. Looks like Dionne Bromfield is in it for the long haul.

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube

This & That: Musical Morsels For You To Chew, Swallow or Spit Out

Thank GOD for Twitter. It's a great way to keep up with the latest happenings and news in the music world. It does get harder to pin down news the more people you are following (I am following over 1,500 people) but you learn how to sift through all of the fluff and pick out the bits that are important to you. 'This & That' is something new I'm trying on the blog, an excuse to not let all of these little tidbits and musical morsels go to waste. Some of them come from Twitter, some from other music blogs I follow, all of them juicy (not always good juicy). Enjoy a little bit of 'This & That.' 

Rebecca Ferguson, runner up on the last season of X-Factor has landed a deal with Epic Records.  The talented singer from Liverpool may have come in 2nd but she was first in my book. New label mate Paloma Faith congratulated Ferguson via Twitter: "@beccaxferguson should I be officially welcoming you? Tell me tell me? I'm so excited!" Ferguson replied: @Palomafaith hi I'm really excited! , couldn't have asked for better people to work with ill probably c u soon ;) xxx"

Cher Lloyd has been spotted meeting with mega-producer and hitmaker RedOne (Lady Gaga, Enrique Iglesias, Sugababes) in America.  It's assumed that they were discussing plans for the young pop star's forthcoming debut album.  While it's uncertain at this point which record label signed Lloyd, she did sign a contract with Syco (along with Matt Cardle, Rebecca Ferguson and One Direction). RedOne + Cher Lloyd? Yes please. {SOURCE}             

Speaking of One Direction, the third-place finishing boy band from last season of the X-Factor appears to be moving in the right direction as far as their burgeoning pop careers are concerned. The first step? A proper band logo.  The logo is fairly straight forward, featuring a black background with a white number "1" and a D with an arrow inside.  Next to the "1 D" is "One Direction" spelled out in red letters.  So are they "One Direction" or "1 Direction?" A bit confusing, no? {SOURCE}

Katrina Darrell (AKA 'Bikini Girl' from American Idol Season 8) has released a TERRIBLE version of "Big Spender." In the accompanying video, Darrell frolics around the beach, on a boat and in the club with a bevvy of half naked men and women.  While the vocals are weak, the video is actually pretty slick.  "Big Spender" was originally written by Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields for the musical Sweet Charity.  The song has been covered by many but most famously by Peggy Lee and Dame Shirley Bassey.{SOURCE}

R&B singer JoJo is reportedly hard at work on her long-delayed 3rd studio album for Da Family/Blackground/Interscope Records.  While the New York Post reports that the songs for the new album are all "mastered & ready to go," JoJo Tweeted on Friday about a forthcoming collaboration with R&B megaproducer Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins (Destiny's Child, Jennifer Lopez), saying: "Grateful 4the wisdom, talent, spirituality + humbleness that makes @ONLY1DARKCHILD the brilliant mind he is . Loving what we're cookin up...." Hmm. Interesting. In September JoJo released her first mix-tape exclusively to Rap-Up.com and if that material is any indication of what JoJo is working on then we have a lot to look forward to.

14-year old Dionne Bromfield is getting to release a new single.  The British singer, who is signed to Godmother Amy Winehouse's Lioness Records, released her debut album in 2009.  The album peaked at #33 on the UK Album Charts and her debut single, a cover of The Shirelles' "Mama Said" peaked at #43. While her first album was a compilation of Motown cover songs, the new record features original material.  First single,  "Yeah Right" features Atlantic Recording Artist Rapper (and son of of Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons, one of the founding members of influential hip hop group Run–D.M.C.)  Diggy Simmons.  According to Bromfield (via Twitter) they shot the video for the single last Friday. Expect it to premiere before the single is released on March 20th.

Anyone remember the boy band O-Town?  Here's a quick refresher...the band released two albums in the early 2000s (the first of which reached #5 on the Billboard 200) and 2 top ten singles ("Liquid Dreams" and "All Or Nothing"). After their second album failed to make an impression on the charts they were dropped by J Records and the boys went their separate ways. Ashley Parker Angel went on to have a semi successful solo career, while the other band members faded into relative obscurity...until now.  According to TMZ 4 of the 5 original O-Town members (minus Parker Angel) have gotten back together and are in the process of recording the first new O-Town album since 2002's O2.  Hey I think they have a shot.  Take That did alright without Robbie Williams right? {SOURCE}

I love Mashups, especially when done well. Case in point, check out one of my favorites featuring La Roux, Robyn, Whitney Houston and Taylor Swift. Now for my latest obsession.  Leave it to Perez Hilton to find a brilliant bit of pop fun like this.  Not sure who created this Mashup but it's awesome. The mashup uses Britney Spears' "Hold It Against Me," Kat Graham's "Sassy" and Adele's "Rolling In The Deep." In one word...Amazing. {SOURCE}

I have always loved me some Blake Lewis and this new video featuring Lewis with buddy and collaborator BT further solidifies his place in my list of favorite Idol Alums.  To hear Lewis in his beatboxin' element, check out this new video for his original song, "She Loves The Way," produced by BT.  Lewis first performed "She Loves The Way" on the American Idols Live! Tour back in 2007 becoming the first Idol alum to sing an original song on the Idol tour.  This video is set to the Beatbox Stutter Edit Mix of the song and was made using a MacBook Pro, "the iSight, BT's Stutter Edit plugin, Loop Pedals, a Kaoss Pad and KJ Sawka on drums." Brilliant! According to Lewis on his YouTube channel, "3 live takes at London Bridge studios in Seattle, Washington is all it took for BT to take my song and make a kickass example of how Stutter Edit can be used with video." Watch the video HERE.

Well this is unexpected.  Swedish electro-pop Goddess Robyn is releasing a new single off of her fabulous, critically acclaimed Body Talk album.  Co-penned by Robyn and Klas Åhlundm, "Call Your Girlfriend" will be released as the follow up to Robyn's last single, "Indestructible," which peaked at #4 on the Swedish singles charts.  According to Robyn, fans can expect the accompanying video will be released in "probably February or March."  Can't wait for some new Robyn!  Robyn's "Dancing On My Own" was nominated for a 'Best Dance Recording' Grammy so look out to see if she wins when the Grammy's air on February 13th. {SOURCE}

You may remember when Travis Garland performed his debut solo single, the Danja-produced "Believe" on American Idol in May of last year.  Prior to his solo debut Garland was the lead singer of NLT, an American boy band that also featured Kevin McHale, now of Glee fame.  The band released 4 singles and were scheduled to release their debut album however it never materialized on the group disbanded. Promoted heavily be Perez Hilton, Garland's Idol performance was supposed to be the catalyst Garland needed to launch him into solo stardom but that never happened.  Signed to Interscope/Geffen Records the singer/songwriter is supposedly working on his debut album, due out sometime this year, although details are sketchy at best.  As of January 11th, fans can download a free 5-track EP called Last Man Standing.  Get that HERE. It's a nice place holder while we await Garland's next move.

Looks like Ke$ha's next single off of Cannibal has been selected.  Fans can expect to hear "Blow" on the radio starting February 8th.  The Dr. Luke/Max Martin/Benny Blanco-produced electro-stomper is typical Ke$ha in that her voice is auto-tuned to shit.  The jury's still out on whether or not this single's any good.  The Prophet appropriately labels it "Take it Off" Part 2 and I can't say that I disagree. Ke$ha's latest release, the mini album Cannibal peaked at #15 on the Billboard 200 chart. First single, the infectiously catchy "We R Who We R" peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.  "Blow" entered  the Billboard Hot 100 at #97 as a result of it's early promotional release.{SOURCE}

Up & coming singer/songwriter/producer/Duke-graduate Mike Posner has announced his third single and it's one of my favorites off of his debut album, 31 Minutes To Takeoff.  Produced by The Smeezingtons (Sugababes, Travie McCoy, Justin Bieber) "Bow Chicka Wow Wow" is the perfect choice for a third single in that it's a sonic departure from previous two singles "Cooler Than Me" and "Please Don't Go."  The closest thing Posner has to a ballad on the album, "Bow Chicka Wow Wow" is a sexy surprise from Posner. Can't wait to see the video for this one.  The single was sent to U.S. radio outlets on January 18th.  Posner's first single, "Cooler Than Me" peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 while follow up "Please Don't Go" fared less successfully, peaking at #16.  "Please Don't Go" will be released as Posner's second UK single on March 13th. {SOURCE 1, 2)

What's this about Joe Jonas going electro for his upcoming solo album? Sounds...interesting? Dare I admit that I'm intrigued?  This could make me start caring about the Jonas Brothers...err...at least about one of the Jonas Brothers.  Jonas, who's working with Danja (Madonna, Usher, Britney Spears) on a new project, revealed to MTV News that he wants his new sound to be reminiscent of Daft Punk.  Looks like Jonas is planning on riding the dance/pop wave straight onto the charts with this new album. I'm interested to see if he can pull it off.  According to Jonas, "I listen to a bunch of stuff you dance to, kind of electro-based."  Also working with Jonas on his debut? None other than Music Is My King Size Bed-favorite Frankmusik. AMAZING. {SOURCE 1, 2}

Another pop star going dance-crazy? How about American R&B singer Mya.  The "Case of the Ex" singer has recorded a single called "Love Is The Answer" and it was produced by Miami-based DJ, Remixer and Producer Cedric Gervais.  Wow. Can't wait for this one!  Mya, who was runner up on the U.S. reality TV series Dancing With The Stars during it's ninth season, promises lots of dancing in the upcoming music video for the song.  According to Mya in an interview with E! Online, "There is a lot of dancing in this video, but it's nothing like what I did on Dancing With The Stars. It's way more Madonna than ballroom." "Love Is The Answer" is out on February 8th. Listen to a clip HERE. {SOURCE 1, 2)

Musical Snippets: Erik Hassle, Blake Lewis, Ting Tings, Katie Melua, Helping Haiti & More

Tweet & Get A Free Erik Hassle Remix: You all know by now that I'm a BIG fan of the poofy-haired Swedish singer/songwriter Erik Hassle. Well, his label here in the States, Universal Republic is offering his fans the chance to download the Penguin Prison Remix of debut single "Hurtful." Simply click on the "Post To Twitter" link HERE and get the remix. It's that easy! Hassle's album is due out in the States this Spring. Those lucky peeps in the UK can expect remixes from the incomparable Wideboys, Michael Mind, FattyPhunk and more.

Blake Lewis - Heartbreak On Vinyl - The Remixes: While I'm a little bit behind on this, remixes are now available for American Idol Season 6 Runner Up Blake Lewis. As much as I enjoyed "Sad Song" (and subsequent remixes by Jason Nevins, Craig C. and Pilotpriest) "Heartbreak On Vinyl" has always been one of my favorite tracks from Lewis' second album of the same name. Remixes are available to download on iTunes right now. Giving Lewis the remix treatment this time around, we have Bimbo Jones, Chew Fu and LA Riots. Good stuff right here! You might as well check out the remixes for "Sad Song" HERE.

The Ting Tings Take SNL By Storm: While I rarely tune in anymore to see Saturday Night Live, I will tune record it if I know an awesome band will be making an appearance. On January 16th, the Ting Tings graced the SNL stage and performed 2 of their hits, "Shut Up & Let Me Go," and "That's Not My Name." Brilliant. Loved seeing them live last year. So good! Can't wait for their new album, which the band is working on right now in Germany. Oh! And congrats to the band for their recent Grammy Nomination for Best New Artist. I was definitely rooting for a Ting Tings win. Watch their SNL performances HERE.

Katie Melua Announces New 2010 European Tour, New Album Coming Along: Katie Melua's music is definitely more on the mellow end of the spectrum when it comes to my musical tastes. That being said, I respect an artist who not only has a beautiful instrument, but also has the ability to express herself so beautifully through her songwriting. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Melua live last year in a more intimate setting and hope to do so again. Starting this Summer Melua will embark on a massive European Tour that will take her to Denmark, Norway, France, Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, Switzerland and the UK. For a full list of her European tour dates, check out her WEBSITE. The tour kicks off July 1st in Odense, Denmark. In other Katie Melua-related news, famous electronica producer William Orbit (Madonna) is producing Melua's new album. Orbit confirmed the news via Facebook and has been Tweeting about it as well. Can't wait to hear what they come up with. Should be interesting!

Sarah McLachlan Releases "One Dream" Music Video: Singer/Songwriter and Vancouver native, Sarah McLachlan has written, recorded and shot a new music video for her song "One Dream," which is being used to promote the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics (which begin with the Opening Ceremony this Friday, February 12th). The video saw it's broadcast television premier on January 24th during the 2010 AT&T U.S. Figure Skating Championships and Countdown to the Vancouver Olympics on NBC. Check out the video HERE and download the song on iTunes. Sarah's also busy with Lilth 2010, so check out the official site for another round of additions to the lineup as well as new cities added to the tour.

Broken Bells Premiere "The High Road" Video: Checkout the new Broken Bells video for their debut single, "The High Road." Directed by the talented Sophie Muller, this video is visually stunning and features the gentlemen of Broken Bells - James Mercer of The Shins and Danger Mouse - in all their glory. The single is available to download on iTunes now (free for a limited time). Check out the video HERE. The debut album is due out March 9th, 2010. Pre-Order the Deluxe Edition from the band's website.

Real Housewife - Remixed - Tracy Young Remixes Kim Zolciak's DBTFTP: Superstar DJ Tracy Young has remixed Real Housewife of Atlanta, Kim Zolciak's single "Don't Be Tardy For The Party." HOT HOT HOT. Remixes will be released digitally (via Ferosh Records) on Tuesday February 9th. The mixes will hit all digital retailers including iTunes, Masterbeat, Juno, Amazon, Napster, etc. Young also hints at a physical release at some point down the line as well. For those of you who want a sneak peak of the remixes, head on over to Perez Hilton and check out what appears to be a radio edit. Make sure you get your copy!

Stars Come Together for Haiti - "Everybody Hurts" Released in the UK: The Simon Cowell-produced Haiti Charity Single, a cover of R.E.M.'s "Everybody Hurts" has been released in the UK, along with a video. The track was re-recorded in both LA and London and features the vocal stylings of 21 artists including Robbie Williams, Alexandra Burke, Cheryl Cole, Susan Boyle, MIKA, James Blunt, Rod Stewart and more. Check out the video HERE and if you're in the UK, show Haiti some love by downloading the single.

Miscellaneous Snippets:

• Dionne Bromfield has revealed that she is in fact recording a follow up to her debut album, Introducing Dionne Bromfield. Syze-Up (Desert Eagle Discs) is one confirmed producer on the project.
• New Calvin Harris Single, "You Used To Hold Me" is out now in the UK. On the remix, we have the uber-talented Laidback Luke. Check out the video HERE.
  
• Good news Kimberley Locke fans! We can expect her new single (via Curb Records) on March 16th. It's called "Strobe Light" and it's produced by Randy Jackson.
• New single artwork from Evanescence, Heidi Montag, Norah Jones, P!nk, Jamie Cullum, Ellie Goulding, V.V. Brown, Mariah Carey, Fantasia, Whitney Houston, Guy Sebastian, Toni Braxton (#1 & #2), Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Jedward, JLS (#1 & #2) and Goldfrapp
• New album artwork from Usher, Boyzone, Ellie Goulding, Justin Bieber, Ricki-Lee, Amy MacDonald, Goldfrapp
  

So behind...

Oi Oi Oi! I'm so behind. Well isn't this the UNDERSTATEMENT of the year (so far). I've been running around like crazy. Who knew I was such the social butterfly? While some of my unintentional blogging hiatus can be explained by my social schedule, a lot of it can be explained by pure laziness. I've been in a bit of a funk lately and understandably so. When I'm not surrounding myself with friends, I'm lazing about the apartment, catching up on the TIVO and yes...listening to music. YES! I said it. I've been listening to music. Writing about music...that's another story.

My goal for this upcoming weekend is to give my blog some LONG-OVERDUE TLC. I have a crap-ton of stuff to talk about (some of which is probably irrelevant by now), including this Sunday's Grammy Awards - which I will definitely be watching, although probably not live. At any rate - the stack of CDs above are all waiting for me to review. Many of them I purchased myself, some of them were sent to me. All of them I enjoy immensely. I'll give you a rundown some of my early favs from the stack (in no particular order). *NOTE* Keep in mind that many of these are already "old news." I'm well aware but I think they are still worth a listen.

Owl City - Ocean Eyes
Not sure if it's the infectious synth beats or the cute/emo lyrics but I LOVE Adam Young/AKA Owl City. - Fav Tracks - "Hello Seattle," "Dental Care," "Umbrella Beach," "Fireflies"

Dragonette - Fixin' To Thrill
Is it too late to jump on the bandwagon as a Dragonette fan? Vocalist Martina Sorbara is AMAZING. - Fav Tracks - "Fixin' To Thrill," "Pick Up The Phone," "Okay Dolore"

Dan Black - ((Un))
I've been raving about this guy FOREVER it seems. His album is finally being released in the states. First U.S. single "Symphonies" is available now digitally. - Fav Tracks - "Symphonies," "U + Me =," "Alone," "Wonder"

Frankmusik - Complete Me
Not only is Frankmusic DREAMY & British, but he's got a sweet, soulful voice that sounds like PERFECTION over driving electro-pop beats. I also need to get the acoustic version of his debut album, Complete Me. - Fav Tracks - "Better Off As 2," "Confusion Girl," "When You're Around," "3 Little Words"

David Homyk - True Story
David Homyk is an up and coming singer/songwriter/producer. His STUNNING debut album True Story is beautiful. This guy has skills. He has the talent to become huge. - Fav Tracks - "Hard To Make A Friend," "Fool In The Middle"

Paloma Faith - Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful?
Another artist I've been raving about for months - Paloma Faith is a former burlesque performer, turned singer/songwriter. She's got the look and the pipes to match. - Fav Tracks - "Stone Cold Sober," "Do You Want The Truth or Something Beautiful?" "Upside Down," "New York," "Smoke & Mirrors,"

Rihanna - Rated R
Upon my first listen, this album depressed me. Now, it seems more relate-able. Perhaps that's the sadness in my heart speaking - but hey - you gotta listen to your heart. Ri-Ri's new album has really grown on me. - Fav Tracks - "Cold Case Love," "Hard," "Rockstar 101," "Russian Roulette," "Fire Bomb," "Photographs"

Katharine McPhee - Unbroken
I've loved Katharine McPhee since Idol. In fact, I voted my ass off for her that season. While I liked a couple songs off of her debut, THIS was the album she was born to make. The more mature style and sound really suits her well. - Fav Tracks - "Had It All," "Say Goodbye," "Faultline," "Lifetime," "Brand New Key"

Dionne Bromfield - Introducing Dionne Bromfield
When I heard that Amy Winehouse had started her own record label and signed her God Daughter as it's first artist, of COURSE I was skeptical. Then I heard the young Dionne Bromfield sing and all traces of skepticism were gone. This girl has a voice WAY beyond her years. - Fav Tracks - "Beachwood 45789," "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "My Boy Lollipop," "Mama Said"

Ke$ha - Animal
This album is the perfect summer album my sad, grey winter needed. Enough said. - Fav Tracks - "Tik Tok," "Blah Blah Blah," "Boots & Boys," "Take It Off," "You're Love Is My Drug," "D.I.N.O.$.A.U.R.," "Back$tabber," "Stephen"

Oh...before signing off - go check out Masterbeat. They are giving away a free 6 remix sampler from Island/Def Jam. The offer expires on February 1st so hurry up! Masterbeat is one of my top resources for CD quality official dance remixes. Included on the sampler are remixes from Mariah Carey, Rihanna, The Bravery, Utada, the Noisettes and Taio Cruz. Go Go Go and I'll do some more updates this weekend.

P.S. - make sure you're following me on Twitter. Lots of music tweets (and Re-Tweets).

Dionne Bromfield Releases a Motown Classic as Single #2

The super-talented 13-year old Dionne Bromfield is gearing up to release her second single in the UK, a cover of the Motown Classic "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," off of her debut album Introducing Dionne Bromfield. Bromfield, who happens to be Amy Winehouse's god daughter is very much following in the musical footsteps of her godmother, garnering many vocal comparisons. Her album is made up of a series of oldies sung to perfection. Bromfield's first single was a cover of the Shirelles' classic "Mama Said" and peaked at #43 on the UK charts. "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" features Winehouse's back-up singer Zalon, who can be seen in the music video for the single here. You can also watch the video for her rendition of "I Saw Mummy Kissing Santa Claus," both songs will appear on Bromfield's new double A-Side Single, due out just in time for Christmas on December 21st.

Check out Dionne Bromfield on the web:
Official Site//MySpace//Twitter

Musical Snippets: Britney Spears, Joss Stone, Ryan Ferrada, Alexandra Burke, Rob Thomas & More

Lots going on in the pop music world of late. Here's a little rundown of what caught my eye.

Britney Spears - 3 - This week saw the release of the new Britney Spears single, "3" which will be the lead single off of Britney's upcoming The Singles Collection due out November 24th. The track was debuted on September 29th on New York's Z100 and will be available to download October 6th in North America. Major Industry publications and blogs are a buzzin' over the new single, which was produced by hitmaker Max Martin. I too am lovin' the track. It's nothing new and sounds like it could have come off of her last record - but it's fun. I am a little bummed that "Unusual You" wasn't really promoted here in North America as that has always been one of my favorite tracks off of Circus, but with the tour over and a new album in the works - I guess it makes sense to cease promotion. Listen to the single HERE.

Joss Stone on Jimmy Kimmel - If you're going to be in the LA area Thursday, October 1st (tomorrow) you can grab your tickets to see Brit songstress Joss Stone. I totally would if I were in the area! I've been dying to see her live for years. Girl needs to do a small club tour or something to promote her new album, Colour Me Free out October 20th in the States (November 2nd in the UK). First single "Free Me" is oozing with sexy soul appeal and with collaborations from Nas, Sheila E, and Raphael Saadiq - it's looking to be a hot one. Get your tickets HERE.

Photo by Kenton Thatcher

Ryan Ferrada - Room 501 - The half American, half Spanish ALL SEXY Ryan Ferrada is gearing up to release his latest album, Room 501. If sexy first single "Dirty In The Club" was any indication, his album is going to be HOT, harmless poppy fun. According to Ferrada's latest blog post, "90% of the album is up-tempo, and 90% of the lyrics are about sex!" For the ballad lovers, don't worry. There's at least one ballad on the album as well as a song dedicated to Ferrada's grandmother. Room 501 looks to have it all - dance, R&B, pop ballads and even the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Producer Greg Fitzgerald (Kylie Minogue, Madonna, Jessica Simpson) worked with Ferrada on the album, which is due out before the end of the year. "I am not a fabricated puppet," Ferrada says. "I'm fully involved in every aspect of the album. From writing the lyrics, to directing the producer so he understands the kind of music I love doing." Sounds like he's a boy that knows what he wants.

Alexandra Burke - Pre-Order Overcome Today - The debut album from X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke, doesn't come out in the UK until October 19th, but you can pre-order it now on various websites. Lead single, "Bad Boys" featuring Flo-Rida comes out in the UK on October 12th. A U.S. release is also expected sometime in the new year, following a five-album record deal with Epic Records. Overcome features production from Stargate, Red One, Ryan Tedder, Freemasons, Element and The Phantom Boyz who produced the first single. Pop singer Pixie Lott also gets writing credit for a track on the album. This looks to be one of the pop albums of the year. Pre-order the album on Amazon, HMV, Play and Tesco.

Rob Thomas - Someday (Video Premiere) - Matchbox 20 frontman and solo artist Rob Thomas premiered his new video on VH1 this week. Check it out HERE. "Someday" is the second single off of Thomas' second solo album, Cradlesong, which came out in June. His first single, "Her Diamonds" managed to hit #23 on Billboard's Hot 100 and #1 on Billboard's Hot Adult Top 40 Tracks. The video for "Someday" was filmed on the streets of New York City. Thomas is currently on tour right now with special guests OneRepublic and Carolina Liar. Check out upcoming tour dates HERE and watch the music video for "Someday" HERE.

New Band - James Mercer (The Shins) & Danger Mouse (Gnarls Barkley/Gorillaz) - This is exciting news. The Shins frontman James Mercer is joining forces with Danger Mouse to create a brand new band - (temporarily) called Broken Bells. The group's debut album is due out next year on Columbia records and has been in the works for a while now. In an interview with Pitchfork, Mercer teased at a new project. According to a new story on Pitchfork, this collaboration isn't just a one night stand. Mercer and Danger Mouse are in it to win it and have already started conceptualizing past the first album. I'm very intrigued by this collaboration, but sincerely hope that we haven't heard the last of either Gorillaz or Gnarls Barkley. Sign up for Broken Bells updates on the OFFICIAL SITE.

Jewel Records Up-tempo Album - Don't mistake me - by up-tempo, we're not talking about another 0304 (which I don't think would be the end of the world to be honest) - we're talking about a sound similar to that of 2001's This Way. OK. I can live with this. I loved This Way, which featured the single "Standing Still," which managed to hit 25 on Billboard's Hot 100. The album also featured "Serve The Ego," which turned into the first club hit for Jewel, hitting #1 on Billboard's Club and Dance Charts. According to Jewel via her blog, the upcoming new album will be produced by Dann Huff (whom she worked with on This Way) and will be serviced to country radio. According to Jewel, "I'm very excited about how the music business is changing...there are no rules, and everything seems possible." The singer goes on to say "I'm looking at making more records more frequently and releasing them, but maybe start to cut back on the two year-promo it has typically taken to get them out there." Sounds good to me. As long as she releases the occasional club track, I'll be happy.

Alesha Dixon - To Love Again - To help celebrate the re-release of her second album, The Alesha Show - The Encore (due out November 22nd), Alesha Dixon is releasing a new single called "To Love Again." The "sumptuous," new single is a piano-led ballad written by Gary Barlow due for release in the UK on November 15th. The three-track digital single can be pre-ordered now on the UK Itunes store for £1.99. No remixes included but a boy can dream. Listen to the new single HERE.

Photo credit to Alex Lake

Amy Winehouse Launches Lioness Records - If we are to believe what we're reading, Amy Winehouse is on the mend. It's about time! And while I'd love to hear more information about Amy's forthcoming 3rd album, I'll take all the news I can get! Amy has launched her own label, Lioness Records, the name for which was inspired by a Lioness pendant given to Winehouse by her grandmother. The labels first release will be Introducing Dionne Bromfield, the debut album from 13-year old Brit Dionne Bromfield - due out October 12th. Wow. Pretty talented! No wonder Amy set her sights on making her a star. According to Bromfield's official MySpace Blog, she was taking to the London Streets to film the video for first single, "Mama Said" on Tuesday September 29th. Pre-order Dionne's debut album HERE. This is all fine and good...but bring on some new Amy material!

Sarah McLachlan Releases New Single - One Dream - Hard at work on her new album, due for release in April 2010, the new single is already available for download on iTunes. Get it HERE! I'm definitely excited for some new pop balladry from this uber-talented Canadian. In addition to prepping for a new album, Sarah McLachlan will also be readying Lilith Fair for a Summer 2010 comeback. Busy lady! She was lovely singing "I Will Remember You" during this years Emmy Awards. Very touching. I'll always have a soft spot for Sarah.