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 Apr-22-2010
Uncle Joe And Aldous Snow
Uncle Joe's been a busy guy! He just talked to The Scorpions, Judas Priest's Rob Halford, and Peter Frampton! And yes, all will be showing up very soon in "Off The Record." In fact, The Scorps are airing this weekend!
That's not all Uncle Joe's been doing... he's also been sharing screen time with Russell Brand! And on June 4th, you can see it for yourself! Uncle Joe has a cameo in the upcoming Russell Brand movie, "Get Him To The Greek," which comes out June 4th. Here's a note from the film's producers:
Uncle Joe,
We finished the sound on "Get Him to the Greek" and it really rocks! We have so many different live concert venues with real crowds that the character Aldous Snow is totally believable as a rock star. The scene with your radio broadcast plays so well. It's so cool that you are in our film!
http://www.traileraddict.com/trailer/get-him-to-the-greek/trailer...
Check out the trailer via the link above!!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 3:15 PM
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 Feb-22-2010
Auditions are over and the 24 await
What's up America, Randy Jackson here and I am so excited for American Idol this season. The auditions are complete and we have narrowed it down to our top 24. It has been so nice having Ellen DeGeneres join the judges table. We are so fortunate to have her. There is so much unbelievable talent that you won't want to miss a beat!
As always, make sure not to miss Randy Jackson's Hit List where I always play the Top 30 hits and answer all the questions on your mind.
Holla!!
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Feb-17-2010
Socially Adept
Social Distortion are back in the studio after a lengthy break between studio albums. Singer Mike Ness tells Spinner.com, "We've just tracked 12 songs this week, and we're going to probably track another five in the next couple of days." The vocalist says the album will not be an acoustic set, though they may tackle that at some point. He added, "As far as priority goes, it's more important now to get a studio record out that is a regular record." The band are self-producing the release, which he hopes to have ready for a late 2010 street date. As for the sound, Ness explains, "The record, to me, is almost like The Dead Boys meets The Black Crowes or something."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Feb-05-2010
Arcade Fire Team With NFL
Arcade Fire will team up with the NFL this weekend, as the track "Wake Up" will be used to help soundtrack breaks for the Super Bowl. The group, who have balked at placement in the past, say they will use the proceeds from licensing the song to benefit the Partners In Health charity, with funds being funneled to Haitian relief efforts.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Dec-23-2009
A Cage The Elephant Holiday Story
Lookout Ralphie Parker, Cage The Elephant's brothers Shultz have "A Christmas Story" that rivals the holiday classic. Guitarist Brad Shultz tells us that both he and brother/singer Matt got BB guns as kids and as expected they inflicted some brotherly damage on each other. Brad says, "My dad was teaching us all this gun safety and then we went out in the woods and I took the wild onions and I was pumping them in the gun without the bb's in them and started shooting Matt with the wild onions." Matt says, "He told me he wasn't going to shoot me anymore and stupidly I believed him. We were hunting birds and he told me to walk ahead and I turn around and Brad's got this evil smile on his face." Matt eventually got his revenge as he did have a pellet left and turned on his brother after he needed to reload. The brothers can now laugh about the war, and say, "That's what happens when you get your kids BB guns for Christmas."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Nov-23-2009
Scary Kids Dealing With Grown-Up Issues
Scary Kids Scaring Kids are winding down their career. Guitarist Stephen Kirby says via a Twitter posting that the band are planning a February tour which will be their last. He adds, "Unfortunately it was down to just three of us and one decided not to do Scary Kids Scaring Kids, so I'll just be moving on to do my own thing." During the band's Warped Tour run this summer, singer Tyson Stevens took some personal time off, leaving the group to play the final four dates with special guests fronting the band.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Oct-24-2009
Winner! Winner! Winner!
Congratulations to all of our Def Leppard winners! 10 lucky "Off The Record" listeners received double-disc, deluxe editions of "Pyromania" and "Adrenalize."
And congrats to all those who won copies of the newly remastered, double-disc "The Very Best Of Don Henley."
Anna - Venice, CA
Austin - Hollywood, CA
Carolyn - Rosston, AR
Lisa - Kyle, TX
Gigi - Lancaster, MO
Angie - Gresham, OR
Ishan - Woodlands, TX
John - Bangor, ME
Jude - Venice, CA
Dorothy - Fillmore, CA
Moses - Oak View, CA
Pete - Minot, ND
Rickie - Marina Del Rey, CA
Joseph - Lakewood, CA
Scott - Pearland, TX
Hank - Thomson, GA
Thomas - Houston, TX
Thomas - Tujunga, CA
Dennis - Salt Lake City, UT
Meg - Portland, OR
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Sep-14-2009
Thrice Bring Energy To "Beggars"
Thrice return this week with "Beggars," an album that truly showcases the band in their environment. Singer Dustin Kensrue tells us that going into the record, the one thing they did know was that they wanted the energy to be evident in the disc. They achieved this by getting all four members in a room and working out the parts together. The vocalist says, "We wanted some energy to it and I think some people confuse energy with speed, and that's not what we're thinking. Energy is a capacity to move something and I think it definitely has that. It has it more than any other record that we've done." Kensrue says the slower material has more of an underlying groove and the more upbeat material just makes you want to move physically. Get moving this week to pick up Thrice's "Beggars."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Aug-27-2009
AFI Bonuses "Crash" Album Pre-Orders
AFI fans will get a little extra for pre-ordering the "Crash Love" disc. The regular pre-order features the bonus tracks "Too Late For Gods" and "Breathing Towers To Heaven." Those who pre-order the deluxe edition of the disc will get both of the previously mentioned tracks, as well as "We've Got The Knife," and "Where We Used To Play." "Crash Love" is due September 29th. The lead single, "Medicate," arrived at iTunes this week.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Aug-03-2009
Airborne Toxic Event Continue To Fly
The 2008 self-titled debut of Airborne Toxic Event has sold over 100,000 albums, and although the group have already done over 200 live shows this year, they are also working on their next CD. Singer-guitarist Mikel Jollett tells www.billboard.com that there is no specific theme to the new album, which they will start recording in a studio early next year. "We didn't want there to be a concept record or that we'll try to recreate the first record," says Jollett. "I think the only real decision was to not have anything to force it to be one way or another." New songs that the band have created this year and played in various shows include "Echo Park" and "All I Ever Wanted."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Jul-28-2009
New Seasons, New Begginings
What's up America, Randy Jackson here and I have got a lot of good news for you. We are currently holding auditions for the upcoming season of American Idol so please make sure to check out the auditions schedule so that you can try out. I wouldn't want you to miss out on your opportunity to shine.
Also, for all my people who love to dance, season 4 of Randy Jackson's Presents: America's Best Dance Crew is just around the corner premiering Aug 9th. This season is going to be Hot and is definitely going to surprise you.
As always, make sure not to miss Randy Jackson's Hit List where I always play the Top 30 hits.
Holla!!
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jul-14-2009
Anberlin's Major Move
Anberlin are having their first major chart success with the single "Feel Good Drag" and it's come after making the jump to a major label. While the band fielded a loyal following recording for an indie, they took a gamble that fans would follow them as they reached a bigger audience. Singer Stephen Christian tells us, "We were willing to err that maybe if a fan heard it on the radio, they'd be that much more excited." The vocalist says there was little doubt amongst the group that "Feel Good Drag" would be a radio hit and they feel happy to have been proven right. "We never thought when we recorded it that this was going to be it...but we recorded it with the mindset of let's record it like we do now live and put our heart in it and see what happens. Maybe it'll be a great b-side," says Christian. "But instead the label came and said, 'This is a really good song,' and we were like, 'We know.'"
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-19-2009
Uncle Joe is Twittering!!
Yes, it's true! Uncle Joe Benson is twittering. Visit if you'd like to be among the first followers!
And, in addition to the Def Leppard giveaway we've got going on right now (scroll up the page to enter to win two remastered, reissued Lep albums), we're also going to have a Don Henley contest starting up next Friday, June 26th... so be sure to check back.
We've got copies of the newly remastered, double-disc "The Very Best Of Don Henley." You can win it before you can buy it right here at offtherecordshow.com.
And Uncle Joe is sitting down with Mr. George Thorogood next month. You'll be able to hear that the weekend of July 11/12th. Hilarity always ensues when George stops by the Off The Record studio!
The Off The Record Summer of Fun has officially started!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-09-2009
Graham Nash Reflects
Graham Nash dropped by the "Off The Record" studios to talk up his new three-disc box set, "Reflections." He and Uncle Joe dug into The Hollies, Graham solo stuff, and of course, the music of CSN and sometimes Y.
Uncle Joe also asked Graham about his American Idol performance, and sharing the stage with Pink Floyd's David Gilmour during David's last solo tour.
Graham's been quite a busy guy too! He's got a bunch of irons in the fire - a live CSNY album from their legendary 1974 tour; a live album from his acoustic tour with David Crosby a few years back; Stephen Stills' box set, and yes, a new CSN studio album!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-19-2009
Blink-182 Reveal Tour Details
Blink-182 are revealing more about their summer reunion tour. Not only will Fall Out Boy and Weezer be joining the band, but Panic At The Disco, All-American Rejects, Taking Back Sunday, Asher Roth, and Chester French will spend at least some time on the trek. The tour begins July 24th in Las Vegas and winds down October 3rd in Atlantic City. The group are also are letting fans have a say in the show. Visit www.pickrset.com/bands/blink182 and vote for which tracks you want to hear at their shows.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Apr-27-2009
Blink Filming....But What?
Blink-182 are filming, but exactly what remains a mystery. The band posted a photo of what looked like a video shoot, but only the group really knows. Mark Hoppus tells MTV News, "It's definitely not what it seems to be. It's not really a music video shoot, and it's not really a movie shoot. It's something that no other band has done, and the technology behind it is ridiculous. I don't even know how to explain it." The picture appears to find the band utilizing a green screen, but Hoppus offers one other clue. "When everything is finished, you won't be seeing a big green wall behind us. It'll be a different shade of green, more of a forest-y green. But they have to do that digitally as we couldn't find forest-green paint."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Apr-10-2009
Reznor Rallies Against Labels
Nine Inch Nails leader Trent Reznor says now is as good a time as any for artists to step away from the label hierarchy in music and take more control of their work. The vocalist tells ContactMusic.com, "Anyone who's an executive at a record label does not understand what the Internet is, how it works, how people use it, how fans and consumers interact - no idea. I'm surprised they know how to use email. They have built a business around selling plastic discs and nobody wants plastic discs anymore." Reznor says his biggest wake-up call came when he saw a record contract in which his music was sold for $18.98 and of that he made 80 cents. The vocalist says the record labels have taken advantage of artists who were willing to sign anything to get their music heard. But after letting his contract expire, Reznor says he feels liberated by the process of being able to release his music on his own. "As an artist, you are now the marketer," explains the singer.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-23-2009
Deftones Set Up Fund For Cheng
Deftones bassist Chi Cheng remains in a coma, and the band is now setting up a fund to help offset his medical costs. "This is our opportunity to give back to someone who has given us so much joy over the years through music," says the group at their website. "Each little bit that we contribute will accumulate to help make a difference in Chi's recovery." For info on how to donate, visit www.oneloveforchi.com.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-06-2009
Arcade Fire's Butler Won't En-Flame Coyne Battle
Arcade Fire vocalist Win Butler is responding (begrudgingly) to critical comments made by Flaming Lips vocalist Wayne Coyne in a recent Rolling Stone interview. The vocalist says he's perplexed by the statements in which Coyne called the group pompous and can't believe he's having to defend his band's personality, but doesn't want questions following them around for years. The singer says the only time his group has shared a stage with The Flaming Lips with the last show on their "Funeral" tour three years ago. Butler recalls being jet-lagged from a trip from Brazil to Las Vegas, but was still excited to meet The Flaming Lips because of his love of "Clouds Taste Metallic." "We traded a little hello, but he was a hard guy to get a read on," recalls Butler. "Steven Drodz was super nice and I felt good after talking to him." The singer says he's not sure Coyne is the best judge of his band given their one meeting. "I can't imagine a reason why we would have been pompous towards The Flaming Lips, a band we have always loved, and on that particular night all those years ago," says Butler. "Unless I was way more jet-lagged than I remember, I hope I was less of a 'pr**k' than telling Rolling Stone that a bunch of people I don't know at all are really a**holes." The vocalist says the thing he takes most offense to in Coyne's comments is the suggestion that they treat their audience poorly. "At times like these I am comforted by knowing that even though Wayne slammed Beck all those years ago, he seems like a really nice guy to me. I guess everyone has a different idea of what being pompous means," concludes the vocalist.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-02-2009
AFI Completes Transmission, Finishing New Album
AFI are putting the final touches on their next album, which now carries the title "Crash Love." The group and their producer Joe McGrath recently welcomed winners of the band's "Begin Transmission" contest to Los Angeles' Conway Studios for their contribution. The group watched thousands of fan-made videos and then picked their favorites to join them in the studio lending backing vocals. There were also a number of "honorable mention" winners who received handmade Valentine's Day cards from the group. AFI have announced their first performance of the year, which will take place June 20th at Toronto's Edgefest. The album is due later this year.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jan-30-2009
In the Pike
Happy 2009! We've got a lot of great stuff in store for you "Off The Record" fans this year. Starting us off, a return visit from drummer extraordinaire Kenny Aronoff. He was the house band drummer for the President Obama "We Are One" Inaugural celebration at the Lincoln Memorial. He's got a lot of great stories about the event, meeting the President, and playing with John Mellencamp for the first time in 15 years. He'll also tell us who he's been in the studio with lately!!
Graham Nash, of CSNY fame, will also spend some time at the "Off The Record" studio to chat up his box set release, "Reflections." We'll talk a little Hollies, CSN, Neil Young, and Graham solo releases.
That's just the tip of the iceberg! So check back... and keep rocking "Off The Record!"
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-27-2009
Killer Indecision
Will the real Killers please come forward? The Killers frontman Brandon Flowers says while the band is currently enjoying their "Day & Age" album, he's really not sure what will follow. The vocalist tells Q magazine that they have considered doing a covers disc just for fun, which would include renditions of songs by Tom Waits, Genesis, and Rod Stewart, but that's not exactly set in stone. "Every day I change," says Flowers. "One day I want to be deadly serious and the next, I just want to write great pop songs and have fun. I don't have any kind of clear direction. I don't know if I'd want to."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Jan-15-2009
January Debuts
What's up everyone, it's your man Randy and I am ecstatic about this new season of American Idol! I can't believe that we are already in our 13th season. It's been a journey but we have finally made it into the first week of auditions. So far, they are out of this world showing off incredible talent and well... you know... lots of entertainment. Kara, the most recent addition to our team of judges has been a blast to work with and we love having her with us.
As if Idol isn't enough excitement for one month, season 3 of America's Best Dance Crew debuts January 15th with a special guest judge. Plus, don't forget to catch the Hit List this weekend where I always play the Top 30 hits in America and some of my personal favorites.
That's it for now...Holla!!
Randy Jackson
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-09-2009
Extra Head Space
Radiohead's former label Capitol will release newly expanded editions of the band's first three albums. The "Pablo Honey" collector's edition features a bonus disc of demos, rarities, live performance recordings, and even a 1992 BBC Radio One session, while a DVD component tacks on four music videos, nine live recordings, and their 1993 Top Of The Pops performance. "The Bends" collector's edition comes with an EP of rarities and a 1994 BBC Radio session along with a DVD featuring five music videos, two Top Of The Pops performances, eight live tracks, and appearances on Later With Jools Holland and 2 Meter Sessions. The "OK Computer" collector's edition features an EP of rarities and live recordings and a 1997 BBC Radio One "Evening Session" performance. The DVD portion comes with three music videos and a 1997 appearance on the Late With Jools Holland show. All three releases arrive March 24th
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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" hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Dec-22-2008
Linkin Park's Holiday "Road"
Spend the holidays with Linkin Park. The band is treating fans to a holiday special, showcasing their new DVD "Road To Revolution - Live At Milton Keynes" online over a 24-hour period. Head over to http://www.linkinpark.com as of 12:01AM December 24th to watch the concert DVD. You can also visit Meebo to discuss the DVD in real time at the Linkin Park Meebo Room. Singer Chester Bennington says, "We wanted to give the fans something special for the holidays. The Milton Keynes show was a special concert for us and by streaming it online, we can share that experience with all of our fans around the world." To download the Linkin Park Media Player with the Meebo Room, visit .
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Dec-22-2008
January Debuts
What's up everyone, it's your man Randy and I am ecstatic about this new season of American Idol! I can't believe that we are already in our 13th season. It's been a journey but we have finally made it into the first week of auditions. So far, they are out of this world showing off incredible talent and well... you know... lots of entertainment. Kara, the most recent addition to our team of judges has been a blast to work with and we love having her with us.
As if Idol isn't enough excitement for one month, season 3 of America's Best Dance Crew debuts January 15th with a special guest judge. Plus, don't forget to catch the Hit List this weekend where I always play the Top 30 hits in American and some of my personal favorites.
That's it for now...Holla!!
Randy Jackson
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Dec-01-2008
Travis Barker & DJ AM Ring In The New Year
It's the feel good story of the holidays. Mere months after surviving a plane crash and dealing with their recoveries, Travis Barker and DJ AM will take the stage together on New Year's Eve. The two musicians will headline the New Year's Nation celebration live from Los Angeles at The Lot. Going under the moniker TRVSDJAM, the duo's set will be streamed live in high definition on the Internet at and broadcast live to NYN parties across the nation. "I'm glad our first show back is here in L.A. on New Year's Eve," says DJ AM. "I've never been 10 places at once before." Barker added, "I'm ready to get back on stage with AM and continue to rock the house. I'm very excited to bring in the New Year in my hometown of L.A." Other NYN parties will be staged in Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, New York City, Portland, and Seattle.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Nov-26-2008
KISS WINNERS!
Congrats to the winners of our FREE KISS goodies!
Our two grand prize winners of the KISS "Ikons" box set, and our 20 Paul Stanley "One Kiss Live" DVD winners are listed below! Thanks to all who entered, and thanks for listening to "Off The Record."
KISS "Ikons" Box Set winners:
KISS WINNERS!
Rob H. - Montrose, CA.
Todd H. - Cincinnati, OH
Paul Stanley "One Kiss Live" DVD winners:
Lara A. - Knoxville, IA
Jacqui H. - Temple, TX
John M. - Cape Coral, FL
Camille L. - Commack, NY
Kelly F. - Horicon, WI
Matt R. - Keota, OK
Michele G. - Dallas, TX
Christy G. - Fort Meade, MD
Suzy H. - Tigard, OR
Carol C. - Harvest, AL
Jill M. - Hendersonville, NC
Gregory H. - Reading, PA
Samuel M. - Long Beach, CA
David P. - North Hills, CA
Tesa S. - Lott, TX
Susanne T. - Racine, WI
Jill L. - London, KY
Jan L. - Ponchatoula, LA
Gary H. - Clarksville, TN
KISS WINNERS!Tonya H. - Trinity, AL
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Nov-19-2008
What's Coming Up
What's up everyone it's your man Randy and I'm so pumped that Idol is only two months away! We've had some great tryouts and I think you are really going to be excited about Season 8 of American Idol! And speaking of Idol, thanks to everyone who donated to Idol gives back. We were able to donate over 64 million dollars to U.S. and International charities!
I told you the Dawg was busy..America's Best Dance Crew also debuts in January. I can't believe it's Season 3 already! Plus don't forget to catch the Hit list this weekend with the Top 30 hits in America and new music from Jazmine Sullivan and Three Doors Down.
That's it for now...Holla!!
Randy Jackson
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Nov-18-2008
Paramore Prime For New Record
Paramore has seen the highs and lows of success and have come out a stronger band for it. Singer Hayley Williams says the group is just starting in on new music, but she feels they are at the strongest point they've been in quite some time. Williams tells MTV News, "We've learned a lot, we've gone through a lot - it's been everywhere for everyone to read and see - but I think we've never been in a better spot as a band, personally, than where we are right now." Williams says the band's struggles only help to fuel her creative energy as she feels she draws the most from intense experiences. "We've learned a lot about friendship," says the vocalist. "We've learned a lot about ourselves, so I'm really excited to see how it turns out." The group is currently bridging the gap between the "Riot" album and their next disc with their contributions to the Twilight soundtrack and their forthcoming DVD release.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Nov-05-2008
Linkin Park's Huge Projekt
Linkin Park may have played thousands of shows, but that did not prepare the band for the performance that would eventually serve as the basis for their "Road To Revolution" CD/DVD. "I felt like there was a lot of pressure on that show. It was the biggest Projekt Revolution that we've done to date," says guitarist Brad Delson. "It was about 50,000 people and we had to go on after Jay [Z] who puts on a great show." The performance was the ultimate climax for the band, who took their long-running tour package overseas for the first time. "Road To Revolution" drops November 25th.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Oct-14-2008
Celebrate Halloween with KISS
Just in time for Halloween, we're gonna load you up with FREE KISS goodies! one of two KISS "Ikons" box sets or one of 20 Paul Stanley "One Kiss Live" DVDS. And of course - tune into "Off The Record" Halloween weekend for a full-hour of KISS! Uncle Joe and Paul Stanley rip through it all - from the band's initial experiments with makeup to their utter world domination! Spend Halloween with KISS and "Off The Record."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Oct-11-2008
Barker Thankful
Drummer Travis Barker says his mood is mostly thankful these days after the recent plane crash that claimed the lives of four people and left him with burns. The + 44 musician tells US Weekly, "I hate planes. My biggest fear is to be involved in a plane crash, so when that happened....well, I'm just thankful to be alive! I'm just grateful to be here at all." Barker was recently released from a Georgia-based burn center, and is now getting treatment at a Los Angeles hospital. Because of his fear, Barker returned home from Georgia by bus with his father and ex-wife Shanna Moakler. "I am doing the best I can possibly be. I'm so anxious to get out of here," says Barker. "I've just been in surgery after surgery. I have third degree burns basically from my feet up to my waist and both hands. One of my hands has second degree burns and one has third degree burns." The drummer says he hopes to be released within the next two weeks and wants to play drums and hold his kids again.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Oct-11-2008
New Music on the Hit List
What's up Y'all,
Wow I just got back from Puerto Rico because we're holding Idol auditions there for the first time ever! I love that island!!
Anyway, join me on the Hit list this weekend because I'll be debuting new music from David Cook, Kanye West, Anthony Hamilton, Rihanna and Linkin Park plus I'll talking to some of the biggest stars in the world and of course I'll let you in on the Hollywood Gossip with Randy's Journal!
Holla at cha on the Hit list,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Sep-18-2008
Kings Of Leon Master Of Their Domain
It's good to be king, but sometimes there are sacrifices involved with being Kings Of Leon. The band has revealed that a rather clean living lifestyle is helping to propel their careers. Caleb Followill tells The Sun that having long-term girlfriends and partying too much is something that is in the past. "You were in your hotel room all by yourself all day," says the vocalist, referring to the time recording their "Only By The Night" disc. "You wake up and it's already dark and you're so lonely. So at night, you go out with girls." The vocalist says that at the end of the day, the band wants to be doing something meaningful that will be remembered. "You want to be on the cover of magazines, and the other stuff to be the blurb," says Followill. Brother Jared Followill adds that they won't be satisfied with just their recent chart success. "We consider ourselves to be better than a lot of those bands that are big now, like Panic At The Disco or Fall Out Boy. We would love to kick their arses out of there."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Sep-18-2008
Bringing Back The Idol's
What's up y'all,
It's your man Randy Jackson and can you believe that Idol is only a few months away! I first have to give a big shout out to David Cook and David Archuleta on the success of their first singles! Great job guys and I can't wait for your albums to come out in November!
Randy Jackson presents America's best Dance crew is going on tour this month. Make sure you checkout ticketmaster for all the details!
Finally, make sure you check out the hit list this weekend because we'll be playing new music from John Legend and Leona Lewis and I'll be talking to Alicia Keys and Spike Lee!
Take care!!
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Aug-29-2008
Happy Labor Day!
"Off The Record" is celebrating Labor Day, the holiday designed especially for the working people of America, with a truly great, hard-workin' American artist - Steve Miller! He just released his first-ever live dvd/cd, "Live From Chicago," and we're playing a bunch of killer live performances from that release in this weekend's show! Steve and the band have also been really busy in the studio - they've recorded two albums' worth of blues songs. Legendary engineer/producer Andy Johns (who's famously worked with Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones) was in studio for that. There's so much going on with the Steve Miller Band right now... end of the Summer tour, new singer in the band - yes, you heard right!! New singer!! And Uncle Joe covers it all with Steve Miller himself. Plus we got a lot of great music, this weekend "Off The Record." See you there!!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-27-2008
Perry Kissed A Girl Because Of Scarlett
Katy Perry says she drew inspiration from actress Scarlett Johansson when it came time to write "I Kissed A Girl." Perry tells Steppin' Out magazine that while reading an article on Johannson's torrid romance in the movie Vicky Cristina Barcelona, she found herself inspired by the actress. "I saw a picture of Scarlett Johansson. I was with my boyfriend at the time and I said to him, 'I'm not going to lie: If Scarlett Johansson walked into the room and wanted to make out with me, I would make out with her, I hope you're okay with that?'"
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Aug-11-2008
Trio's Skiba Trumps Band Mates With Album Title
Alkaline Trio's Matt Skiba can write a solid lyric and he's pretty good with creating album titles as well. The band is back with "Agony & Irony" and the vocalist tells us the moniker came from the band passing the time with a play on words challenge. "I don't know how I thought of it, but maybe I heard someone singing 'Ebony & Ivory,'" admits Skiba. The vocalist says that after coming up with the title, he felt it fit as there were a lot of songs with themes of duality in them. His bandmates agreed, and "Agony & Irony" became the name for the new disc. The album is in stores now.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Aug-08-2008
The Teen Choice Awards
What's up y'all,
It's your man Randy Jackson and I want to thank everyone who voted for American Idol and America's best dance crew at the Teen choice awards! I was there with my kids and it was great to feel the love. The Dawg definitely appreciates it!
I can't believe that Season 8 of American Idol is right around the corner. I will be hitting the road at the end of the month so make sure you check out the Idol website to see where Simon, Paula, Ryan and myself will be hanging out. We have some great talent in some great city's this year.
Finally, make sure you check out the Hit list this weekend and next weekend because we'll be playing new music from Jesse McCartney, Hinder and Janet Jackson. Plus we'll be talking to Three Doors Down, Metro Station and Leona Lewis!
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Jul-17-2008
Seether "Rise" To The Occasion
South African rock band Seether have teamed up with the Kids Help Phone charity to help raise money and awareness to prevent teen suicide. All fans have to do is log onto http://www.kidshelpphone.ca/seether/ and watch the video for their hit song "Rise Above This". Wind Up Records (the band's label) will make a donation to the charity for every person who watches the video in it's entirety.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jul-08-2008
Love for the Music and Idol Auditions
What's up everyone,
It's your Dawg Randy Jackson and first of all thanks for listening to the Hit List. Make sure you check out the show this weekend cause we have tons of stars, hot music and the biggest hits in America! You know I'm all about the music baby!
I can't believe Idol is starting up again and if you're interested in being the next American Idol click on American Idol dot com and find out times and locations because they start this month! Wow!!
That's about it...I'm headed to the pool for a cocktail and a dip! Hope you had a great 4th of July and I will holla atcha on the radio!
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jul-07-2008
Safetysuit Suits Their Audience
Safetysuit may currently be hitting with the upbeat track "Someone Like You," but not every song mirrors their breakout track. The band is taking great pride in the varied musical offering that their "Life Left To Go" album provides. Singer Doug Brown tells us his favorite live song at the moment is the ballad "Find A Way," while guitarist Dave Garofalo prefers their more rocking current single. "I think we try to keep the reaction pretty consistent across the board," says Brown, who does notice some extra female attention during the ballads. "Guys can enjoy ballads, too!," adds the vocalist. "Don't be ashamed guys! Throw your hands up in the air like you just don't care."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-23-2008
40 Years of YES!
Yes may have had to cancel their 40th anniversary Summer Tour, "Close To The Edge And Back" due to singer Jon Anderson's respiratory problems, but that didn't stop the vocalist from updating your Uncle Joe! Many thanks to Jon, who's recovering at his home in the States, for chatting with everyone's favorite Unc over the weekend on "Off The Record."
And if you're wondering about some of the songs we dusted off for this very special anniversary show - here's what you heard...
Yours Is No Disgrace
Close To The Edge
I've Seen All Good People
Every Little Thing (a Beatles cover, which originally appeared on Yes' debut album)
Long Distance Run Around
The Fish
Owner Of A Lonely Heart
Roundabout
Wondrous Stories
40 Years of Yes! Jon Anderson's feeling better every day, and hoping that he and Yes will be on the road next year to make up for this Summer's canceled dates. Jon also let it slip that the band has four or five songs ready to go a for a new album. We may see that late next year too!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jun-23-2008
40 Years of YES!
Yes may have had to cancel their 40th anniversary Summer Tour, "Close To The Edge And Back" due to singer Jon Anderson's respiratory problems, but that didn't stop the vocalist from updating your Uncle Joe! Many thanks to Jon, who's recovering at his home in the States, for chatting with everyone's favorite Unc over the weekend on "Off The Record."
And if you're wondering about some of the songs we dusted off for this very special anniversary show - here's what you heard...
Yours Is No Disgrace
Close To The Edge
I've Seen All Good People
Every Little Thing (a Beatles cover, which originally appeared on Yes' debut album)
Long Distance Run Around
The Fish
Owner Of A Lonely Heart
Roundabout
Wondrous Stories
40 Years of Yes! Jon Anderson's feeling better every day, and hoping that he and Yes will be on the road next year to make up for this Summer's cancelled dates. Jon also let it slip that the band has four or five songs ready to go a for a new album. We may see that late next year too!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-23-2008
40 Years of YES!
Yes may have had to cancel their 40th anniversary Summer Tour, "Close To The Edge And Back" due to singer Jon Anderson's respiratory problems, but that didn't stop the vocalist from updating your Uncle Joe! Many thanks to Jon, who's recovering at his home in the States, for chatting with everyone's favorite Unc over the weekend on "Off The Record."
And if you're wondering about some of the songs we dusted off for this very special anniversary show - here's what you heard...
Yours Is No Disgrace
Close To The Edge
I've Seen All Good People
Every Little Thing (a Beatles cover, which originally appeared on Yes' debut album)
Long Distance Run Around
The Fish
Owner Of A Lonely Heart
Roundabout
Wondrous Stories
40 Years of Yes! Jon Anderson's feeling better every day, and hoping that he and Yes will be on the road next year to make up for this Summer's cancelled dates. Jon also let it slip that the band has four or five songs ready to go a for a new album. We may see that late next year too!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-18-2008
Moving Forward
What's Up Y'all
It's your man Randy and thanks for all the love for American Idol Season 7. David Cook was great and he will definitely be a huge star in the music business. Remember tryouts for season 8 start in late August...I can't wait!! In the meantime my dance show on MTV is rockin along for it's second season. Make sure you check out MTV daily because we have some great dancers this season.
Hope you have a great week and I'll talk to you this weekend on the radio during Randy Jackson's Hit list! (by the way I will also be in Vegas this weekend for my 25th birthday party...Holla)
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jun-12-2008
Coldplay Discuss Tracks, Rearrange Dates
Coldplay's "Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends" will arrive next week, and is already setting records at the most demanded pre-order in iTunes history. Part of that buzz is due to the success of their preview tracks. "Violet Hill" is already a top ten single and "Viva La Vida" is starting to get a few plays as well. Guitarist Guy Berryman tells MTV.com that "Violet Hill" was actually a song that was once in danger of not making the set, but their manager Phil Harvey championed the song and brought it back to their short list of material. Singer Chris Martin says the band had fun making two videos for the track - one that was shot on top of Mount Etna in Sicily and the second was a humorous clip just showcasing politicians dancing. As for "Viva La Vida," Martin says it's a groundbreaking song for the band. He explains, "This song is one of our favorites, because none of us are doing anything on it that we've ever done before. But we really enjoy playing it. The longer you go on as a band, the harder it is to surprise yourself." In other news, the band has rescheduled some of the early dates on their tour due to production delays. The group states, "We're very sorry, but we promise you a show worthy of your patience and understanding when we start in mid-July." Tickets already purchased for those shows will be honored during the new dates.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 May-14-2008
Foxboro Hot Tix
The members of Green Day will tour under the moniker of the latest side project, Foxboro Hot Tubs. But the band is only scheduling a handful of dates and planning to thwart possible scalpers all while offering a very reasonable ticket price. Fans can purchase two tickets maximum for $20, and the tickets for the shows will only be available at the box office on the day of the show. Stops include: Little Rock (May 19, Juanita's), New Orleans (May 20, One Eyed Jack's), Dallas (May 21, The Loft), Austin (May 22, Emo's), Phoenix (May 25, Brick House), San Diego (May 26, SOMA Sidestage), Los Angeles (May 27, Roxy), and Long Beach (May 28, Alex's Bar). The group also requests no cameras at the shows.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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May-01-2008
Final Four
What's up everyone, it's your man Randy Jackson and we're down to the "Final Four" at American Idol. If you haven't been voting for your favorite, you better start because it's all up to you!! I have to thank recent Idol mentors Mariah Carey and Neil Diamond for doing their thing. It's great to see musical legends teaching the future legends of the game.
Also, thanks so much for your support of Randy Jackson presents America's Best Dance Crew. The ratings have been amazing and remember season 2 starts June 7th.
Finally, check out the Hit List this weekend for new music from Leona Lewis, Usher, Ashanti and the latest news and gossip about American Idol.
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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Apr-07-2008
The Return Of QUEEN
Queen + Paul Rodgers are busy in the recording studio putting the finishing touches on a new studio album, which will be out on September 1st. It'll be the first album to bear the "Queen" name in over 13 years! So in anticipation of the return of "Queen" (well, at least of Brian May and Roger Taylor), "Off The Record" devoted an hour to the legendary band.
Here's what we played!
Tie Your Mother Down
Killer Queen
Bohemian Rhapsody
We Will Rock You
We Are The Champions
Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Another One Bites The Dust
Under Pressure feat. David Bowie
Somebody To Love
Say It's Not True (brand new music from Queen + Paul Rodgers)
The "Queen + Paul Rodgers Rock The Cosmos 2008 Concert Tour" kicks off in mid-September!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Mar-26-2008
The Doors "Live In Pittsburgh"
The Doors released another cleaned up, remastered live concert performance via their Bright Midnight Archives label! "The Doors Live In Pittsburgh 1970" was recorded at the Pittsburgh Civic Arena on May 2, 1970, during the band's final tour, and features a sober, together Jim Morrison! We included some of the songs from this legendary concert in "Off The Record." Here's what you heard:
"Back Door Man/Love Hides" (from "Live In Pittsburgh 1970")
"Roadhouse Blues" (from "Live In Pittsburgh 1970")
"Five To One" (from "Live in Pittsburgh 1970")
"Break On Through" (from "Live In Pittsburgh 1970")
The Crystal Ship (from the 40th anniversary remastered "The Doors" album)
Love Her Madly (from the 40th anniversary remastered "L.A. Woman" album)
Riders On The Storm (from the 40th anniversary remastered "L.A. Woman" album)
People Are Strange (from the 40th anniversary remastered "Strange Day" album)
"Close To You" (from "Live In Pittsburgh 1970" and featuring Ray Manzarek on lead vocals)
And in celebration of the band's 40th anniversary, you'll be treated to a couple more releases this year. "The Doors Vinyl Box," including the original stereo mixes of all six studio albums on 180-gram virgin vinyl in replicas of their original sleeves, arrives on April 22nd. And already available via download is "The Future Starts Here: The Essential Doors Hits."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Mar-23-2008
Who Will Stay & Who Will Go
WHAT'S HAPPENING PEOPLE!,
IT'S YOUR MAN RANDY JACKSON AND THINGS ARE GETTING TIGHT ON AMERICAN IDOL! AMERICA IS VOTNG OFF PEOPLE WEEKLY SO MAKE SURE YOU TEXT OR CALL YOUR VOTES IN THIS WEEK FOR YOUR FAVORITE AMERICAN IDOL!
PLUS, WE ONLY HAVE TWO WEEKS LEFT OF RANDY JACKSON PRESENTS AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW. SEASON TWO STARTS JUNE 1ST AND CASTING CALLS START IN APRIL, LOG ONTO MTV.com TO FIND ALL THE DETAILS.
FINALLY, MAKE SURE YOU JOIN ME THIS WEEKEND ON THE HIT LIST AS I COUNTDOWN THE TOP 30 SONGS IN AMERICA AND I BREAK NEW MUSIC FROM BOYS 2 MEN AND A FINE FRENZY.
LATER Y'ALL,
RANDY
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-06-2008
Narrowing Down The Idols
WHAT'S UP Y'ALL,
AND THEN THERE WERE 12......CONGRATS TO THE FINAL 12 ON AMERICAN IDOL. NOW THINGS REALLY START TO GET INTERESTING SO MAKE SURE YOU CATCH ME, PAULA, SIMON AND RYAN NEXT WEEK ON FOX FOR AMERICAN IDOL.
THANKS FOR ALL THE LOVE SO FAR ON RANDY JACKSON'S MUSIC CLUB VOL. 1! MY CD DROPS NEXT TUESDAY SO MAKE SURE YOU GO PICK THAT UP. IF YOU LIKE POP, ROCK, COUNTRY, HIP HOP OR JUST GOOD MUSIC YOU'LL LOVE THE CD.
AND FINALLY MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT THE HIT LIST THIS WEEKEND WE'LL BE PLAYING NEW MUSIC FROM USHER AND MUSIC FROM A NEW BAND CALLED FLYLEAF.
TAKE CARE,
RANDY
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-03-2008
Nine Inch Nails Deliver Web-Based Album
Nine Inch Nails leader Trent Reznor is fulfilling his wish by releasing a new album from the group via the band's website. The instrumental effort is titled "Ghosts I-IV," and includes nine tracks of what will be a 36-song project. Fans have the option of receiving the nine songs for free or the entire album can be obtained digitally for $5. "I've been considering and wanting to make this kind of record for years, but by its very nature it wouldn't have made sense until this point," says Reznor. "This collection of music is the result of working from a very visual perspective - dressing imagined locations and scenarios with sound and texture, a soundtrack for daydreams. I'm very pleased with the result and the ability to present it directly to you without interference." The album finds Reznor collaborating with Alan Moulder, Atticus Ross, Alessandro Cortini, Adrian Belew, and Brian Viglione. Reznor is providing the set with various options ranging from the $300 ultra-deluxe limited edition package to the free option. The album will also receive a physical release in stores April 8th.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Mar-03-2008
INXS "Off The Record" song list
We hit just about every album in the INXS catalogue during last weekend's INXS "Off The Record"! Here are the songs in the order that they aired in the show...
What You Need
The One Thing
Don't Change
Listen Like Thieves
This Time
Need You Tonight
New Sensation
Elegantly Wasted
Original Sin
Hope you enjoyed the show as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Feb-20-2008
The Doobie Brothers "Off The Record" song list
The Doobie Brothers "Slat Key Soquel Rag" from the "Stampede" album kicked off the show last weekend. It was the instrumental track that played under Uncle Joe's show introduction. And here are the song featured in the program - in the order played:
Take Me In Your Arms
Listen To The Music
China Grove
Dark Eyed Cajun Woman
Black Water
Rockin' Down The Highway
Takin' It To The Streets
What A Fool Believes
You Belong To Me
Long Train Runnin'
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Feb-19-2008
American Idol/America's Best Dance Crew
What's up Family,
Thanks for all of your support and love over the last few weeks! American Idol's ratings are through the roof and Randy Jackson "Presents America's Best Dance Crew" is doing great on MTV. Make sure you catch Idol this week because we're down to the Top 24 contestants! Plus you can catch "America's Best Dance Crew" every Thursday at 10 on MTV.
Randy Jackson's Music Club Vol. 1 is dropping March 11th in a store near you. The CD features music from my good friend Paula Abdul and a brand new artist called Barbie Esco! Listen to the Hit List each weekend for all the details. That's it for now and have great week!
Holla
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Feb-11-2008
Warped Picks Bigger Names
The Vans Warped Tour is a great place for young bands to get a start and up to this point most of the lineup announcements surrounded rising rockers. However, a new batch of acts has been added and some have that needed star power. Angels & Airwaves, Say Anything, Cobra Starship, Anberlin, and Story Of The Year are some of the bigger groups playing this year, while Paramore and Jack's Mannequin will play select shows. Other new additions include: The Aggrolites, All That Remains, All Time Low, The Bouncing Souls, The Dillinger Escape Plan, The Fabulous Rudies, Family Force 5, Four Year Strong, Horrorpops, Mayday Parade, Murs, The Pinker Tones, Protest The Hero, and Valencia.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Feb-11-2008
The Allman Brothers"Off The Record" song list
Okay - here's the rundown of songs from this past weekend's "Off The Record with Joe Benson" show featuring The Allman Brothers Band:
Melissa
Jessica
Blue Sky
Revival
Statesboro Blues (live)
Ramblin' Man
Southbound
Heart Of Stone
Ain't Wastin' Time No More
And going into "Ramblin' Man," underneath Joe's interview with Butch Trucks, we played a great Duane Allman solo piece called "Little Martha."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 " hspace="5" BORDER="0" align="left"> Feb-04-2008
Journey "Off The Record" Song List
So, Uncle Joe's been getting lots of music inquiries lately... everyone asking about the songs played each week in "Off The Record." Well, we're going to make it easy for you to find out. We're going to post our weekly playlist, starting with the Journey show that aired this past weekend. All of the music came from the new digitally remastered Journey catalogue. Here's the list of songs, in order that they aired in the show:
Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
Patiently
Lights
Wheel In The Sky
Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'
Anyway You Want It
Stone In Love
Who's Cryin' Now
Be Good To Yourself
Don't Stop Believin'
And if you're wondering about some of the instrumental stuff that ran in the background, underneath Uncle Joe's interview portions? Well, that came from Neal Schon's solo album, "Beyond The Thunder."
Enjoy!!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jan-25-2008
Weekly Blog
The New England Patriots have already made history with an unbeaten season. The New York Giants were 10-6 on the season and surprised everyone by beating Green Bay to get into the Super Bowl. Many think this is a one-sided match up. One must remember, however, that the Giants lost by only 3 to New England on Dec 29th. The Giants secondary will be challenged by New England's air assault led by 2-time Super Bowl MVP quarterback Tom Brady. New York had a strong offensive showing in the NFC Championship game against Green Bay led by Eli Manning and Plaxico Burress. The Patriot defense will be tough to beat on Sunday. After 18 long years will Junior Seau finally get a Super Bowl Ring? New York has beaten 2 of the best teams in the NFL in the playoffs this year, Green Bay and Dallas. Now they need one more to make history of their own. New England is clearly the better team, but on Super Bowl Sunday anything can happen.
Posted by Staff at 8:47 PM
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 Jan-23-2008
Super Bowl Celebration!!!
What's Up Party People,
It's your man Randy Jackson and it's the Patriots and the Giants in the big game on Super Bowl Sunday. Make sure you watch the halftime show because me and my girl Paula Abdul will be making a "special appearance". Let's just say you will be "dancing like there's no tomorrow" after you see us. I also have to give a shout out to my man Ryan Seacrest who will be on the red carpet before the big game and big props to Jordan Sparks who will be singing the National Anthem. It' all about Idol during the Super Bowl this year!
Plus the Dawg is hard at work on my new MTV show "Finding America's Best Dance Crew". Check out the two hour premiere this Saturday and weekly starting February 7th exclusively on MTV.
Finally and most importantly make sure you catch the Hit List this weekend as we countdown the Biggest songs in America. We'll be talking to Jay Z plus we'll be playing new music from Colbie Caillat. I'll catch you on the radio this weekend.
Holla
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-08-2008
Radiohead Find Comfort In The Uncomfortable
Radiohead's "In Rainbows" is one of the band's best albums to date, though it may have been one of the most uncomfortable discs to record. Ed O'Brien tells The BBC that producer Nigel Godrich wanted to put the band in an uncomfortable position, and they worked in an abandoned building that had been everything from a boys' prep school to a drug rehab center. Singer Thom Yorke says, "It was barely habitable cause it had been neglected for so long and there's certain windows you shouldn't stand underneath cause glass might blow out on you." Yorke says Godrich also found pleasure in making the group work as one rather than tracking individually. "I think that's why bands are exciting," says Yorke. "If you're in that situation where you're in a band, but yet when you go into the studio everyone tracks individually and puts it all on the computer, then you may as well be a solo artist really. That's why Nigel always forces us into these places, grumbling as we do."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jan-04-2008
Happy New Year!!!
What's Up Party People,
Happy New Year and Happy American Idol. I can't wait for season seven to kick off in a couple days and I'm predicting a "Guy" winner this year!. Make sure you catch my weekly Idol Confidential on "THE HIT LIST" for all the inside scoop on this years Idol.
My schedule is crazy!! Later this month catch the two hour special of my new MTV show called finding "America's Best Dance Crew". The special premiere's on January 26th and then catch it weekly on MTV starting February 7th. Remember my new album drops in March and it features tons of my favorite friends. I will be premiering my first single as "My I-Pod" pick of the week very soon on the Hit list. That's it for now...Catch you on the radio this weekend!
Holla
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Dec-19-2007
Non-Fictional Foo
The Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl says he's learned an important lesson in music over time - write what you know. "It's hard to write something that just comes from nowhere. I'm not much of a fiction writer. It's hard to go out and sing something that's meaningless," says Grohl. The song that really strikes a chord for the singer off the band's GRAMMY-nominated "Echoes, Silence, Patience, And Grace" is their first-ever piano ballad, "Home." "I felt like it was one of the best songs I've ever written," says the singer. "In its simplicity, there wasn't a bunch of hoopla. There was a piano, a vocal and a simple lyric that came straight from my heart."
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Dec-18-2007
Van Halen Rock Staples Center
Van Halen rocked the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Friday night, December 14th, and Eddie Van Halen was looking fit, tan, and most importantly, sober! The shirtless guitarist, along with brother Alex on drums, son Wolfgang on bass,and showman David Lee Roth doing vocals, took the stage to "You Really Got Me," and didn't slow down until Alex's drum solo about midway into the set.
Roth, sporting very short hair, a bright yellow, sequined jacket, and tight, black leather pants, was in rare form... bantering with the audience, high kicking to some of the harder-hitting drum parts, and stopping every now & again to share a mic with Eddie Van Halen. The two even hugged onstage, in front of the crowd, at the start of the show! We kid you not! Eddie shared a couple of father-son moments with Wolfgang - they traded guitar & bass licks on their knees, facing each other, and every so often, Eddie would grab the teen and plant a kiss on his forehead or hand!
"Jump," of course, served as the single song in the encore, at which point, a giant, inflatable microphone was handed up to David Lee Roth, who then proceeded to straddle the blow-up mic and give it a good ride to close out the show.
It was a high-energy, jam packed two and a half hours....filled with a multitude of David Lee Roth's flamboyant top hats, and five Eddie Van Halen guitar changes (both the Kramer "5150" and the Kramer "1984" guitars made appearances).
As for the setlist - it was a virtual greatest hits of the David Lee Roth/Van Halen era:
"You Really Got Me"
"I'm The One"
"Runnin' With The Devil"
"Romeo Delight"
"Somebody Get Me A Doctor"
"Beautiful Girls"
"Dance The Night Away"
"Atomic Punk"
"Everybody Wants Some"
"So This Is Love"
"Mean Street"
"Pretty Woman"
DRUM SOLO
"Unchained"
"I'll Wait"
"And The Cradle Will Rock"
"Hot For Teacher"
"Little Dreamer"
"Little Guitars"
"Jamie's Cryin'"
"Ice Cream Man"
"Panama"
GUITAR SOLO ("Women In Love," "Eruption")
"Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love"
ENCORE: "Jump"
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Dec-06-2007
Tankian Tackles Production
Serj Tankian is a man of many skills, as evidenced by his multi-role EPK promoting his "Elect The Dead" album, but one role that he's particularly thrilled with is being able to produce his debut solo album. "It was very interesting and a huge learning experience for me to have all that responsibility on me, but it didn't feel like responsibility. It was like, 'This is what I'm doing, now let's go make it great,'" Tankian tells us. The vocalist tells us initially he was skeptical about taking on both roles, fearing that he could succeed artistically but fail in terms of production. But as the process began, Serj says he kept on building and building at his home studio to the point where he determined that if he brought in someone else, his vision would be compromised. "As I went on the confidence began to build," says Tankian, "But there are times when you have to take off the artist hat and wear the producer hat and I would do that just by stepping into the control room and listening and thinking to myself, 'Is this part as powerful as it could be?'"
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Dec-03-2007
'Tis the Season
What's up y'all,
Happy Holidays and I hope you're shopping is going well. The Dawg has been busy in the streets with the taping of "Hollywood Week" for American Idol just wrapping up. We have tons of surprises for ya this year so make sure you check out the premiere on January 16th.
And speaking of T.V. shows, I have a brand new dance reality show called "Randy Jackson Presents America's Best Dance Crew" out on M.T.V starting next month. If you think you can dance make sure you watch this show to see if you really have what it takes.
We have some special Hit-List shows coming to ya during the Holidays including a countdown of all my favorite Christmas Classics and the Top 30 songs of 2007.
I'm out and Happy Holidays,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Nov-29-2007
Coheed Calls Off Europe, Joins Linkin Park
Coheed & Cambria are taking Linkin Park up on their offer to play shows on their upcoming 2008 winter tour. "Linkin Park has personally invited us to support them in the U.S. during this time and after a lot of thought, we have accepted," said the group, who had to call off their European run to make way for the opportunity. The band apologizes for the European cancellations, but adds that all tickets will be accepted when the band returns to Europe later in the year. The tour begins February 12th in Omaha and runs into early March. One of the fan-friendly draws for the trek is the opportunity to purchase a "digital souvenir package." This includes show tickets, an audio download of the entire concert, photos from the gig, and a digital tour program.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Nov-16-2007
FINAL CHANCE
This Saturday will be the last home game for the seniors for what has been a terrible season. With nine total losses and no victories at Notre Dame Stadium this year, this team has indeed made history...the kind you would like to forget. But the beautiful thing about football is that there is always the next game. All will be forgiven if the Irish beat Duke.
As a player, there are two games that stand out. The first one and the last one. The first one is obvious because of the newness of the situation. The crowd is much larger than what you experienced in high school and there is much more fanfare. You fall into this trap that makes you think this thing will last forever. But you ultimately reach the last game.
The final game takes on much more meaning, because for some of these players, it is the last time they will play competitive sports for the last time in their life. The reality of this brings about great emotion. You think about little things like the last walk to the stadium, the last time you will tape your wrists, and the last time you will salute the crowd. So you want that last memory to be a good one, and the best way for that to happen is with a victory.
Duke represents that opportunity to make a good memory. They come into Notre Dame Stadium with an identical record. Even though the Irish are 0-6 at home, this represents the best chance for victory. It doesn't matter what happened in the past, the future is much more important. So for the seniors, make a good future...and create a good memory!
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 6:00 AM
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 Nov-06-2007
Chevelle Gets It
Chevelle is growing as a band, and the group says their latest single "I Get It" is a good indication of what their future holds. Singer Pete Loeffler tells us, "It's an upbeat, uptempo song which is where our music is going, but it's also kind of pissed off and you throw it on if you're going through a breakup or you got fired or something." The vocalist says that "I Get It," like many of their other songs, may touch on negative things but it also serves as a release for the listener. The group just shot a video for "I Get It" that will be available shortly. Loeffler says it was enjoyable because the band, who are not fond of doing videos, are not in the clip. "We did a very budget video with a couple comedian friends of ours and it's a concept video poking fun at things like the daily grind," says the frontman.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Nov-02-2007
BE FOR REAL
The media and some of you have jumped on the Naval Academy bandwagon thinking they have a realistic chance of beating the Irish this week. I know they have the nation's best rushing offense going up against Notre Dame who is giving up just under 200 yards per game. I also realize that the Notre Dame offense is one of the worst in the nation statistically, but this is Navy!
I hope I don't sound disrespectful. I admire the committment the Middies make for our country and the effort they display on the field is admirable, but Notre Dame should beat them easily. Expect the offensive explosion you have been waiting for all year. If you take the time to look at the match-ups, you will see what I'm talking about.
Finally, since I have been alive, Notre Dame has never lost to the Naval Academy. "I've told people that
Navy will not defeat Notre Dame in my lifetime, and since I hope to stay on this earth for a few more years, the Irish better prove me right"
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 9:00 AM
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 Oct-23-2007
Falling Away From Them
KoRn frontman Jonathan Davis will venture out on a solo tour next month. The singer will provide an eclectic set of tracks, ranging into KoRn's back catalog, providing various covers, and also drawing from the songs he did for the Queen Of The Damned soundtrack. "I have wanted to do this forever," says Davis. "Ever since I did Queen Of The Damned and more recently the MTV Unplugged, I have wanted to be able to play those songs live. It's going to be acoustic, but still heavy and very intimate. It will totally blow peoples' minds." The trek begins November 9th in Hartford.
Posted by Out Of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Oct-19-2007
CAUTION SHARP (LEY) TURN
It was announced Tuesday that Evan Sharpley would start at QB this week against USC. I thought he should have been starting from the beginning, based on Coach Weis statement that he ran the operation the best. I know that statement has an 'I told you so' odor, but looking at the production with Sharpley in versus someone else verifies I'm right.
When Demetrius Jones started the Georgia Tech game, Charlie looked uncomfortable calling that game. His body language was such that he was doing something he was not familiar with, deploying the West Virginia spread offense. The problem was he didn't have the West Virginia players running the offense...they are the ones that make that scheme work, not the coach. Great players make you look like a genius, average players make you look stupid.
I felt Clausen gave them the best chance to win because of his location with the football. Its always between the numbers or their eyes when he throws it. But the truth is he's a Freshman, and he has to learn the speed of the game. I know he wasn't given the best protection in the world, but he still needs to get rid of the football. He reminded me of Carlyle Holiday waiting, waiting, waiting...then sack. Its better for him to sit on the sideline and watch right now.
When Sharpley is in the game, He gives Notre Dame the best opportunity to stretch the field. With 8 & 9 people in the box, you're not going to have much success running the football, so passing is what's going to advance the ball. Sharpley does the best job of fitting a pass in tight coverage, and he's not afraid to throw the deep ball. Whether you complete it or not isn't the issue, its the fact that you will go deep that makes the difference.
So Sharpley give them the best chance to win. It's sort of shades of Joe Montana coming off the bench, which is an appropriate comparison given the fact that Notre Dame will be wearing the green '77 throwbacks this week. Watch out, a star may be born. Since he has the whole game instead of a half, he might throw for 300 yards.
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 9:00 AM
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 Oct-19-2007
Neil Young Chrome Dreams II
Neil Young was all smiles at the premiere of his new album "Chrome Dreams II" Tuesday night at the William Turner Gallery in Santa Monica, California. Why an art gallery, you ask? Well, Neil's new album is also part of a collaborative art project between the singer and photographers Anthony Crawford and Larry Cragg. The two visited the car graveyard on Neil's ranch in Northern California and shot some of the vehicles "resting" there. Many of their photos were displayed Tuesday night, including a shot of Neil Young looking out of the window of an old-fashioned "filling station," which as it turns out, is the studio on Neil's ranch where "Chrome Dreams II" was recorded. It's called "Feel Good's Garage."
The photos may eventually be put up for sale on the Bridge School website www.bridgeschool.org so keep an eye out for them.
As for the album... "Chrome Dreams II" is a sequel of sorts to an album called "Chrome Dreams" that Neil Young recorded 30 years ago. "Chrome Dreams" was shelved in 1977... though many of the songs showed up on subsequent Neil Young releases ("Like A Hurricane" and "Pocahontas"). "Chrome Dreams II," which comes out on Tuesday, October 23rd, features 10 songs - 3 are previously-unreleased recorded many years ago, 7 are brand new. There's an 18-minute epic called "Ordinary People," a 14-minute guitar-solo heavy rocker called "No Hidden Path," and the understated "The Way" which features backing vocal help from a children's choir. We did see Neil Young tapping his foot along to the electric "Spirit Road."
Neil is touring... the dates start tomorrow (the 18th) and will include a stop at his annual Bridge School Benefit at the Shoreline Amphitheater in San Francisco. www.Neilyoung.com has all the info.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Oct-18-2007
A Change In Times
Maynard James Keenan might be sharing intense stories through his lyrics with Tool and A Perfect Circle, but that doesn't mean there's no room for positive reinforcement. Puscifer, Keenan's side project is exactly that, a new direction and different stories to share. "I would like the permission to move into a more positive space, more creative space. The more intense your music is, the more intense the stories are -- there's a downside to that," Keenan tells Billboard.com. Keenan and Tool's, Adam Jones began Puscifer as a comedy skit in the 90's, but the band has gained momentum and fans as well. The album "V is for Vagina" will debut Oct 30, 2007.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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Oct-17-2007
Lots Of Traveling & Making Sweet Music
What's up y'all,
It's been an amazing few months with auditions coming to a close for Season 7 of American Idol. There are so many talented singers in this country, it's going to be an incredible competition. One of my favorite new cities is Omaha but I also need to shout out to Dallas for showing us so much love. Remember Idol kicks off January 18th on Fox.
I also need to shout out to Boys 2 Men who were just honored by Lilly Claire for their contributions to the business. The new Boys 2 Men album drops November 13 so make sure you pick that up because it features the "Dawg" as one of the main producers.
And finally, make sure you check out the Hit List this weekend, my I-Pod picks of the week include Will Downing and My Chemical Romance. Plus we'll feature countdown debuts from Boys Like Girls and Rahsaan Patterson. It's going to be hottttt baby
Peace,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Oct-12-2007
Michael Strahan
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with Michael Strahan of the NY Giants.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Oct-08-2007
Steve Miller Band and Uncle Joe in LA
Uncle Joe Benson spent quite a wild weekend with the Steve Miller Band. Everybody's favorite Unc was spotted hanging out with Steve and the band at the Greek Theater show in Los Angeles on Saturday night. Rumor has it that Uncle Joe helped thwart comedian David Spade's attempt to purchase one of Steve's famous guitars. Okay, so Uncle Joe and votes from the thousands of screaming fans in the audience stopped the potential $900,000 sale. Good thing, because Steve Miller featured the guitar during the top-notch live set, which Uncle Joe said clocked in just over the 2 hour mark. Fans of all ages were singing and dancing along to songs like "The Joker," "Swingtown," "Take The Money And Run," and "Jet Airliner." A good time was reportedly had by all.
Uncle Joe then met up with the Steve Miller Band again on Sunday night at the Mann's Chinese Theater on Hollywood Blvd. It was the premiere screening of the upcoming double-disc DVD release, "Steve Miller Band: Live In Chicago." 19 high-def cameras captured the band's two-night stand in Chicago last July, and the legendary Andy Johns (who's worked with Led Zeppelin and the Stones, to name a few) mixed the sound. Uncle Joe hosted a Q&A session with Steve Miller after the screening, where Steve let it slip that he's about to hit the studio to record a new album with none-other-than, Andy Johns!! Little piece of trivia for you - Andy Johns worked with the Steve Miller Band over 30 years ago on one of their first albums. How's that for coming full circle? Anyway, the "Live In Chicago" double-DVD set will also come with an audio CD featuring 12 songs from the set, as well as a beautiful color booklet. You can pick up in late November.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Oct-05-2007
BREAKTHROUGH
I feel like this may be the week that Notre Dame finally breaks through and gets a win versus the Bruins of UCLA. I base this on the second half performance against Purdue in last week's game. And they need a win because looking at the remaining schedule, how many teams do they have a realistic shot of beating?
It takes six wins to become bowl eligible. Still remaining on the schedule are Boston College and USC. It's questionable whether Notre Dame can beat both of these squads, but they could win one. That's what makes the UCLA game so important. If they beat the Bruins, they can take a loss against USC and still be favored in their remaining games and qualify for a bowl game.
Bowl games are very important for a young program like Notre Dame. Forget the nice destination, fine gear and good food you get with a bowl. Coaches love these games because it gives their team more practice time. The reps you get in practice make you execute better. You execute better, you put yourself in a better position to win. A win in a bowl game also gives you momentum for the following season.
It may be wishful thinking to believe Notre Dame can win six out of its last seven games, but I'm an optimist. If they play the way they did in the second half of the Purdue game and eliminate the penalties, they have a legitimate shot. None of the games will be easy, but as a player, you wouldn't want to have it any other way. So why not make as a goal for the remainder of the 2007 season, going to a bowl game? It would represent a fabulous turnaround.
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 9:00 AM
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Sep-28-2007
A MUST WIN
When Notre Dame travels to West Lafayette to face the Purdue Boilermakers, I feel that they are in a must win situation. I say this because when I look at their remaining schedule, its hard to come up with the necessary amount of victories to qualify for a bowl game. I thought they may have some cushion with a couple wins in September, but obviously have had to rethink that one.
A win does three things. First, it will make them feel better about themselves and bring a tiny but of luster back to the dome. These guys work hard all week with one goal in mind. When you lose, you feel like a failure. When you win, you develop confidence. When you have confidence, you execute better.
Secondly, it will help them stop what is arguably the worst season the Irish have ever had. They have already made history by losing four in a row. I don't think there will be any 20 year reunions for this group. It is time to make an about face and start playing like Notre Dame. Forgive the cheerleader in me
Lastly, a win will make the Irish the state champs. Maybe this isn't important across the country, but in the state of Indiana, you don't want Purdue to be kings of the state. The only team I hate losing to more is USC. They boo the ND band! I'm probably a little too sensitive about that one, but being #1 in the state is important to me, and I wouldn't want that representative to be one that boos an opponents band. Maybe one day I'll grow up.
So here's to victory and a return to normalcy. It would be nice to be in the news because you are winning for a change.
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 9:00 AM
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Sep-26-2007
On Tour For The Next Idol
What's up y'all,
I'm on the Randy Jackson World Tour or at least it feels that way! Idol is on the road with auditions the next two weeks in Miami, New York and Omaha. The response has been incredible and once again American Idol will be on ffffiya starting in January.
Oh by the way, when I'm in New york next week I'll be dropping by the Tyra Banks Show, CBS This Morning, Rachael Ray and M.T.V! So if you don't catch the dog on the Hit List this weekend make sure you check me out on the television next week.
Thanks for all the love,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Sep-25-2007
Ben Bradlee
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Ben Bradlee, former executive editor of The Washington Post.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Sep-21-2007
WAKE UP
I know Irish fans are frustrated about the current state of Notre Dame football. Who would have imagined that at this point, this team would rank 119th out of 119 teams in rushing offense, scoring offense and total offense? Also, can anyone imagine a Notre Dame defense giving up more than 200 yards rushing three games in a row? I knew this wasn't a BCS team coming into the season, but I did not expect such inept play on the field.
You may feel disappointed as a fan, but the players feel much worse. When you wear the uniform you represent the students, the faculty, the alumni, your family and all the other casual fans. Your play embodies the pride the university feels. With good play, all the fans walk around as if they have big shoulders...but when you play bad, it feels as if you have let everybody down.
That's why Charlie's call to return to the basics was key. This is gut check time. Its an opportunity for all the players to take an introspective look at what they are doing and figure out why they are not having success. Each individual has to assess their performance and figure out what they need to do to make the team better. Then collectively, they need to rebuild their confidence. This comes from setting minor goals. One such goal could be four first downs in a row, or a better than 50% success rate on third down. When you achieve these things, your confidence comes back. When you have confidence, you execute better.
Realistically, I don't know if Notre Dame can win this week or not, but I do expect improvement. Each week brings new hope, so you never count yourself out. But a return to the basics means concentrating on what you do individually and as a team. The point is, if Notre Dame takes care of Notre Dame, it doesn't matter who the opponent is. If the Irish play this way, they won't go 0-8 as the many pun dints predict. Sooner or later, a little pride seeps in and you wake up and remember who you are. This Saturday would be a good time to wake up.
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 9:00 AM
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Sep-19-2007
Another Emmy Loss & The Dawgs New CD
What's up y'all,
The Emmy's were awesome but unfortunately we lost for the fifth straight year! What do we have do to win something around here? Just kidding, it's great to be nominated and we do appreciate all the love! By the way, shout out to my man Ryan Seacrest who's no Ellen or Conan but he did a great job hosting the Emmys!
I'm so excited about my new CD dropping early next year! So far I've recorded with Mariah Carey, Elliot Yamin, Jason Mraz, Joss Stone, Ghost face Killa, and many more. This will be one dope CD and it drops in February!
Finally, make sure you check out the Hit list this weekend because we will be debuting new music from James Blunt and J. Holiday and I'll have the inside scoop on Idol with my exclusive American Idol Confidential!
Hollar at cha this weekend,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Sep-19-2007
Isaac Mizrahi
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Isaac Mizrahi, world-renowned fashion designer.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Sep-18-2007
Isaac Mizrahi
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Isaac Mizrahi, noted PBS futurist.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Sep-14-2007
Still Big
Still Big
Although the Michigan Wolverines and the Irish are 0-2, it still does not take away from the fact that this will a big game. They are both traditional powers, ranking 1-2 in the NCAA in all-time victories, winning percentage, television appearances and all-time final composite AP poll rankings. Also, the game is still being played in 'The Big House' which is one of the most feared venues an opponent can enter. I read in an airline magazine that Michigan Stadium is a top five destination for a gameday experience, so who cares about the record?
What will take place is a passing of the torch to the next great players in these schools storied history. In Notre Dame's case, Jimmy Clausen takes over for Brady Quinn, the Irish's most prolific passer. It is indeed a tall order to fill but the kid comes in with his own share of accolades. Clausen was 42-0 in high school as a starter. Winning is a significant intangible when it comes to the play of a quarterback, just ask Vince Young.
Michigan will strut out their own young behemoth quarterback, Ryan Mallet. He's 6-7, 252 lbs and a freshman. Not only does he look big, he plays that way too. However, his job will be a little easier than Clausens because he has the luxury of Michael Hart in the backfield, who currently ranks 6th in the country in rushing, averaging about 150 per game. Mallet has received much praise from head coach Lloyd Carr and is ready to accept the challenge.
So don't worry about the records. It's still Notre Dame vs. Michigan, which always is a classic. Plus gameday has a way of making you forget what happened the last two weeks. In this game its all about now, and this battle will be one that's talked about for a long time.
Posted by westwoodone staff at 12:00 PM
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 Sep-14-2007
For the best mix of interesting guests and important news.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: Condoleezza Rice's legacy, the sixth anniversary of 9/11, and the influence of the wealthy cadre comprising President Bush's Texas power-base. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Sep-14-2007
Dr. Rudy Crew
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Ira Flatow, noted PBS futurist.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Ira Flatow [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/flatow2.jpg) Sep-11-2007
Ira Flatow [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Ira Flatow, noted PBS futurist.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Sep-10-2007
The Idol Auditions Are Rolling Through Philly!!!
What's up y'all,
Man, I have been on the road with Idol non-stop. This week we will be in Philly! Philly come out and represent!
Plus all my country fans make sure you go out and buy the new Travis Tritt cd...The Dawg did some major producing on the album!
Remember the new Boys 2 Men CD drops November 13 and my new CD drops in January.
Finally, make sure you check out the Hit-list this weekend we are talking to Joss Stone and playing her new song in my I-Pod pick of the week!
Have a great week,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Sep-10-2007
It's been a busy Summer...
Guess who's coming by the "Off The Record" studios to chat with Uncle Joe... yep, the lovely Ann Wilson of Heart will be here in a couple of weeks to dish on her brand new solo album, "Hope & Glory," which comes out tomorrow (September 11th). And because Ann and Uncle Joe go way back, I'm sure we'll also have tons of really cool web exclusive audio for you to check out after Ann's visit!! By the way, have you heard her version of Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song?" Everybody's favorite Unc was completely blown away by it!! He'll definitely spin it when he and Ms. Wilson sit down the weekend of September 22/23.
The Heaven & Hell crew also paid a visit to the "Off The Record" studios. Ronnie James Dio, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Vinny Appice shared all sorts of stories about their latest releases, "Black Sabbath: The Dio Years" and "Live At Radio City." We'll get some of the audio highlights up for you soon... so keep checking back.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Sep-10-2007
Ira Flatow
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with Ira Flatow, noted PBS futurist.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Sep-07-2007
THE THREE E'S
Last weeks debacle vs Georgia Tech is not representative of the type of team I think Notre Dame can be. I understand that when you look at an offense that gave up 9 sacks and rushed for -8 yards, and a defense that gave up 265 yards rushing, good may be the overstatement of the year, but it was a fairly tight game in the first half. Also, there was noticeable improvement on the defensive side of the ball, despite the 33 points that were scored, and the Clausen kid did impress, even though it was mop up duty.
But if you're Notre Dame, the road only gets tougher. Going into Beaver Stadium which seats 107,000 plus will be a formidable challenge. The fans will dressed in white, making the stands look like a blizzard, and loud enough to put any heavy metal rock band to shame. Also, Penn State has revenge in mind after being embarrassed last year in South Bend. The Nittany Lions are a much improved team with good playmakers on offense and a stout defense.
Like any Notre Dame fan, I am wishing for a victory, but what I want to see most are The Three E's... effort, emotion & enthusiasm. The effort comes from donning the gold helmet. As a Domer, you represent all that is good in college football. It is a responsibility to give your best effort. Emotion is caring about your teammates and family. If you play for something bigger than yourself, it becomes more important to you. And finally, enthusiasm. This is supposed to be fun! This is not a job. Fly around, hit somebody, make some plays and laugh about it after wards.
The Irish may not win but the overall goal should be improvement. Doubling their effort from last week will not be enough. In fact, Notre Dame needs a Herculean effort to even have a chance at victory, but having been a player, you wouldn't want it any other way. A Notre Dame player welcomes the challenge of having to be the best every week. They look forward to the opportunity to play in front of a national audience and they want the toughest opponent and most insurmountable odds. Looks like the Irish have Penn State right where they want them.
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 11:00 AM
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 Aug-31-2007
Philip Baker Hall
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with actor Philip Baker Hall.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-29-2007
Eagles Land October 30th!
Alright, the track listing for the long-awaited, highly-anticipated new Eagles album has finally been unveiled, and for those of you NOT in the know, it's a DOUBLE ALBUM! We wouldn't expect less since this will be the first album of all new Eagles songs in some 28 years! Hard to believe... but we kid you not.
The album's called "Long Road Out Of Eden" (we'll leave you to delve into the mystical "reasons" behind the album title). The Eagles have partnered with WalMart to distribute the double-disc, which means you've got to go to WalMart or Sam's Club to get a copy. You can also order it online at www.ealgesband.com. And the best news is that the purchase isn't going to set you back much cash. If you walk into the store on October 30th (first day of release) and buy a hard copy, you'll pay $11.88. If you make your purchase digitally, you know download the album, you save a buck.
So the track listing for the two discs goes something like this:
disc 1
1. "No More Walks In The Wood"
2. "How Long"
3. "Busy Being Fabulous"
4. "What Do I Do With My Heart"
5. "Guilty Of The Crime"
6. "I Don't Want To Hear Anymore"
7. "Waiting In The Weeds"
8. "No More Cloudy Days"
9. "Fast Company"
10. "Do Something"
11. "You Are Not Alone"
Disc 2
12. "Long Road Out Of Eden"
13. "I Dreamed There Was No War"
14. "Somebody"
15. "Frail Grasp On The Big Picture"
16. "Last Good Time In Town"
17. "I Love To Watch A Woman Dance"
18. "Business As Usual"
19. "Center Of The Universe"
20. "It's Your World Now"
And of course the Eagles will be touring. They've actually already got six nights in October scheduled with the Dixie Chicks as a Grand Opening celebration for the new Noki Theater L.A. Live in downtown Las Vegas.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-29-2007
Kathy Reichs
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author and forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-27-2007
Eric Van Lustbader
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Eric Van Lustbader.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Sandra Brown [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/brown3.jpg) Aug-24-2007
Sandra Brown [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with author Sandra Brown.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Aug-24-2007
GAMEDAY 2007
As we approach the start of the 2007 season there are more questions than answers. Who will be the starting quarterback? Will the offensive line be able to protect this year? Will the presence of a new defensive coordinator be an improvement? How will Notre Dame utilize all of the running backs that they have? How many games can this squad win with all the youth and inexperience?
On paper this appears to be Coach Weis's most challenging coaching job since coming to South Bend. There is a lot of youth on this team, but plenty of senior leadership. In fact, there are more fifth-year seniors than regular seniors. Overall, it's a good blend of young guys and old veterans. With only 10 starters returning, it is clear that some freshmen and sophomores will have to step up.
This team is a mystery to me. In fact, I have had to put extra study time into researching this group, but I like what I see. Not since Lou Holtz was the coach has there been a better set of running backs assembled. Corwin Brown, the new defensive coordinator, assured me that his unit would not sit back and react---they plan on being in 'attack mode' all season long. And Notre Dame has one of the best punters in the nation, which means opposing offenses will always have a long field to traverse.
The number of wins and losses still remains questionable, but it will be exciting. There will be lots of new names and faces making plays this year. I hope you all tune in to hear all the in-depth analysis Don Criqui and I will be providing this year. The broadcast will be as challenging as the coaching job Charlie has ahead of him. Go Irish!
Posted by NDFootballRadio.com Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-24-2007
For the best mix of interesting guests and important news.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: the distant possibility of drug legalization, the mortgage bubble, and the hidden costs of job outsourcing. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-23-2007
Special Guests In The House
What's up y'all,
It's been a great week here at the Hit-list, I sat down with Joss Stone and Elizabeth Withers to talk about love, life and their rising careers! Make sure you check out the show next week for all the juicy details!
Plus keep your fingers crossed for Simon, Paula, Ryan and myself as we go for our first Emmy Award September 16th on Fox! I have been fortunate enough to win Grammy's, Billboard music awards but never an Emmy! By the way congrats to Ryan for hosting the awards this year!
Idol auditions are in full effect and I will have all the details on that next time!
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Aug-23-2007
WINNER, WINNER, WINNER!
Congratulations to the winners of the two recent "Off The Record" contests!
Congrats to the following listeners, who've won a copy of "The Doors Live In Boston" three-disc set:
Brian - Independence, KY
Scott - Los Angeles, CA
Troy - New Richmond, OH
Michael - Webster, TX
Steve - Salisbury, MD
Catherine - Montreal, Quebec
Paul - Erie, PA.
Anna - Beaverton, OR
Chris - Placentia, CA.
Russ - Prescott, AZ.
Brett - San Jose, CA.
Sara - North Hollywood, CA.
Jesse - Blountsville, AL.
Carlos - Redondo Beach, CA.
Dorie - Salt Lake City, UT.
And Congrats to our STYX winners! The following "Off The Record" listeners have won autographed copies of Chuck Panozzo's book, "The Grand Illusion: Love, Lies, and My Life With Styx":
Andrew - Orange, CA.
Donald - Conway, AR
Kelly - West Jordan, UT
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Aug-22-2007
Sandra Brown
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Sandra Brown.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Robin Cook [concluded]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/cook3.jpg) Aug-21-2007
Robin Cook [concluded]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview concludes with author Robin Cook.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Aug-20-2007
Robin Cook [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with author Robin Cook.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-17-2007
For the best mix of interesting guests and important news.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: Elvis Presley's legacy three decades after his passing; the influence of evangelical Christianity on modern U.S. Presidents; and, the rise of Democratic candidate Barack Obama. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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Aug-17-2007
Robin Cook
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Robin Cook.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Bill Davidson [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/davidson3.jpg) Aug-16-2007
Bill Davidson [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Harley-Davidson capo Bill Davidson.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Darryl Hickman [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/hickman.jpg) Aug-14-2007
Darryl Hickman [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with former child star Darryl Hickman.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-10-2007
For the best mix of interesting guests and important news.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: the Republican straw-poll in Iowa; the latest Democratic debate; and, the 'Outrage' of special interests trumping the well-being of the everyday American. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-08-2007
New Music and More Idol
WHAT'S UP Y'ALL,
IT'S YOUR MAN RANDY, I JUST GOT BACK FROM NEW YORK AND GUESS WHO FOLLOWED ME HOME? YES...BOYS 2 MEN ARE IN TOWN AND WE ARE DOING SOME LAST MINUTE WORK ON THEIR NEW ALBUM! PLUS BRIAN McKNIGHT WILL BE HANGING OUT TO DO A COUPLE TRACKS WITH "THE BOYS" AND FOR MY ALBUM COMING OUT IN OCTOBER!
AFTER THE HIT-LIST THIS WEEKEND I'M HEADED OUT ON VACATION AND THEN HIT THE ROAD FOR AMERICAN IDOL AUDITIONS FOR SEASON 7! I CAN'T BELIEVE ANOTHER IDOL SEASON IS ALMOST HERE...MY EARLY PREDICTION SAYS A "GUY" WILL WIN THIS YEAR!
HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
HOLLA,
"THE DAWG"
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Aug-08-2007
David Gilmour on The Big Screen
If you're itching to drop some dough on music, you might want to hold off for a few weeks. Only because Pink Floyd singer/guitarist David Gilmour just announced that he's got a double-DVD set coming out September 18th. It's called "Remember That Night - Live At The Royal Albert Hall" and was recorded at the London stop of last year's solo tour.
And of course, your favorite Unc got all the details from Mr. Gilmour.... the first DVD is the 2 ˝ hour-long concert in its entirety! There are a bunch of songs from David's last solo album, "On An Island," but there's also a ton of Pink Floyd material including, "Speak To Me," "Breathe," and "Time" from "Dark Side Of The Moon," as well as a 20-minute version of "Echoes." But it gets even better.... Steven Crosby and Graham Nash joined David and the band onstage to do "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" and a cover of CSNY's "Find The Cost Of Freedom." David Bowie also made a guest appearance to lend a hand to encore performances of "Arnold Layne" and "Comfortably Numb." And did we mention - David Gilmour's Pink Floyd bandmate, Rick Wright, is a member of David's solo band, so you'll see plenty of him too!
Now, the 2nd DVD in the set is loaded with extra "stuff," including a behind-the-scenes documentary called "Breaking Bread, Drinking Wine," which David described as a "road movie" that gives fans a unique "seat on the tour bus." A few footage highlights - flashfloods and a collapsing stage. Yes, both occurred on separate occasions during last year's tour!! There are also two music videos, live footage of the AOL sessions David recorded in Los Angeles, and a studio version of "Atronome Domine" filmed live at Abbey Road Studios in London.
And here's the coolest part - David Gilmour said he's going to screen the concert performance in its entirety in select movie theaters on September 15th at 3pm EST/12noon PST. The one-off screening will be followed immediately by a Q&A session with David Gilmour live via satellite from London! Call your local theater to see if they're participating.
Pink Floyd keyboardist Rick Wright said, "it's probably the most fun, most professional, and easiest tour I've ever done in my life!"
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-08-2007
Daniel Handler
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Daniel Handler.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Andy Maddock [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/maddock.jpg) Aug-07-2007
Andy Maddock [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with baseball card maven Andy Maddock.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-06-2007
Andy Maddock
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with baseball card maven Andy Maddock.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-03-2007
For the best mix of interesting guests and important news.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: the ever-thorny Israeli-Palestinian situation; the bridge tragedy in Minneapolis; and, the perils and pitfalls of outsourcing as applied to the intelligence community. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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Aug-03-2007
Hart Seely [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with author Hart Seely.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Aug-02-2007
Hart Seely
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Hart Seely.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Daniel Silva [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/silva2.jpg) Aug-01-2007
Daniel Silva [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with author Daniel Silva.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-31-2007
Idol's Still The King!
I have seen all the reality shows this summer and still American Idol is the King of All of singing shows! Thanks again everyone for making idol such a successful show and thanks to you we received more emmy award nominations than ever before! Remember Idol tryouts start again September 1st!
I need to shout out to my dawg Chris Daughtry who just went triple platinum with his debut album plus Carrie, Kelly and even Bucky Covington all taking the Country world by storm! A final shout out to Elliot Yamin and Taylor for going gold with their first projects, by the way Taylor I loved the book! Making me and Idol proud!
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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Jul-31-2007
Daniel Silva
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Daniel Silva.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Tony Gwynn [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/gwynn2.jpg) Jul-30-2007
Tony Gwynn [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with baseball great Tony Gwynn.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-27-2007
Another week of fascinating people and important events
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: the Republican Presidential field, the state of medical treatment for our veterans, and the autobiography of Robert Novak. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jul-27-2007
Tony Gwynn
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with baseball great Tony Gwynn.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Kristin Chenowith [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/chenowith2.jpg) Jul-26-2007
Kristin Chenowith [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with actress Kristin Chenowith.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-25-2007
Peter Criss - One For All and KISS
Original KISS drummer Peter Criss released his fifth solo album yesterday. It's called "One For All," and features several cover tunes, a tribute song to Peter's friend and former bandmate, guitarist Ace Frehley, a special salute to all of Peter's fans, and of course a handful of songs written by the Catman himself. Not only did Peter write and arrange most of the lyrics and melodies on the CD, he also self-produced it. He assembled quite a backing band for his latest solo endeavor too - longtime friend and David Letterman band leader Paul Shaffer, bassist Will Lee, and guitarist Mike McLaughlin.
And wouldn't you know - one of the world's most famous drummers actually found time in his busy schedule to drop by the "Off The Record" studios to chat about his very autobiographical new CD, "One For All," and to share some stories about the band that made him a household FACE and name - KISS.
Click here to listen to Peter Criss reveal the identity of the person who directly inspired him to become a drummer.
Click here to listen to Peter Criss talk about the tribute song he wrote for his fans, "Faces In The Crowd," which you can find on Peter's new solo CD, "One For All."
Click here to listen to Peter Criss explain why he decided to produce his new CD, "One For All," himself.
Off The Record: Your fifth solo album, "One For All," just came out on Tuesday, July 24th. Tell us about the new album.
Peter Criss: It's very autobiographical. It's all about kind of loss and gain and love and losing love and getting love, making the same mistakes twice. I got to write a song called "Memories." I redid a song called "What A Difference A Day Makes" that my mom used to sing around the house all the time. She had a great voice and my sister recorded it and played it for me on a little tape player and it moved me. So I redid it with brushes. And Paul Shaffer is on this CD by the way, and when he added this cool like cocktail piano thing to What A Difference. It was really cool.
Off The Record: You've actually been working on this album for quite awhile, haven't you?
Peter Criss: I started thinking about this whole thing way back when KISS finished working with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in Australia and I got back. I really had the blues because we did it without Ace Frehley and it was really tough for me. I mean it's the originals or it's nothing. It's the band it's not the band so going though that was kind of uncomfortable but contracts are contracts. So when I came back I reall had the blues, and as all artists do, sometimes you sing your best when you're really feeling the most down. And I really wanted to do something that Peter Criss wouldn't even think about doing, so I redid "Send In The Clowns" and I related it to KISS. It seemed like were older now, had families, and our timing had changed. It seemed if you lilsted to the lyrics of the song, we both [KISS and Peter Criss] wanted different things or we thought we wanted the same thing but we didn't, and I started building my home studio by then so I just laid down the track and that started the album.
Off The Record: There's a song called "Space Ace" on the new CD, "One For All." The song's a tribute to your KISS bandmate and longtime friend, Ace Frehley. Has Ace heard the song yet?
Peter Criss: No he hasn't because I haven't gotten a call from him (laughing). I'm expecting a call eventually and I hope he digs it because I really did it in a complimentary way. You know, it's not a putdown as far as I'm concerned. The words are very honest. They're very positive. Ace is in a good space right now in his life, in his head, and I hope he likes it. I wish he'd write one for me (laughing). No one's written a song called Peter Criss so you know, I think he should be kind of flattered actually.
Off The Record: You and Ace Frehley are quite close? Did you have an immediate connection with him from the first moment you met him?
Peter Criss: The minute he walked into the room, I loved him. There was something about him, something about this guy. He had two different colored sneakers on, two different colored socks. The guy who was currently auditioning, Ace didn't care. Ace plugged right in and played over him! Blew the other guy away! Blew him totally away, and I was so impressed by his confidence, in who he thought he was, and that blew me away! I loved him right from the start, much quicker than the other two [Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons].
Off The Record: You've been working on a book about your life and your life with KISS for the last few years. Do you know when you might finish it?
Peter Criss: I will finish it. I'm thinking now that music is much more important. My wife and I were talking about it and I don't want to get that [the book] done because once you write a book about your life, it's kinda over (laughing). You told everybody you're deepest secrets and they really know you now so I put the book on hold. I've got so much stuff that I will eventually sit with a ghostwriter in my guest house, and he will live there, and we will probably stay together like 2 years. I'm told it takes to years to write a book. I don't know if people know that but it does take a good 2 years out of your life to write about your life, if you have something to write about (laughing). I'm just not ready for that yet. I'm not ready to sit down. I don't have the patience right now.
Off The Record: Do you think you might assemble a band and hit the road this year?
Peter Criss: People want me to and it's wonderful. God, it's so cool. I've got some great offers already from Tokyo and Australia to play there so I don't know. My guitarist [Mike McLaughlin] keeps calling me, "let's go out! Let's go out!" And I know I have guys who want to play so I'm just going to see what happens right now and I probably will. I miss playing so badly. I really miss playing my drums and I miss playing for people and I miss the stage really, really bad. It's been four years since the Aerosmith show when I left KISS, so yeah, it's in my blood. So I'm hoping maybe that will all happen. You gotta sort that stuff out though. You gotta get sound systems, you gotta get the right guys, you gotta rehearse. I't snot just like, oh, I'll get a van and let's go! I want to be really good and book something that I can handle.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jul-25-2007
Kristin Chenowith
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with actress Kristin Chenowith.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Danny Forrester [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/forrester.jpg) Jul-24-2007
Danny Forrester [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with actor and author Danny Forrester.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jul-23-2007
Danny Forrester
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with actor and author Danny Forrester.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-20-2007
Another week of fascinating people and important events
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: the possibility that elements within the CIA are compromising the war on terror, the male aversion to medical care, and the political capital held by American women in the 21st century. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Blair Underwood [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/underwood2.jpg) Jul-20-2007
Blair Underwood [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with actor and author Blair Underwood.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jul-19-2007
Blair Underwood
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with actor and author Blair Underwood.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-18-2007
Dave Leibman
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with "celebrity chef" Dave Leibman.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jul-17-2007
The Dawg Days Of Summer
What's up everyone I am loving being in New York for the summer!
By the way I have been in NYC working on the new Boyz II Men CD dropping November 12th! You have to check it out: the boys are back!
Plus I've been putting the finishing touches on my CD, called "Randy Jackson Presents The American Music Club Volume 1" due out in October! I have worked with everyone from Neyo to Patti Labelle to Travis Tritt!
Finally, I have a reality show getting ready to drop, filming starts in July! It's called "World Moves" and it's produced by the Dawg! Okay, I gotta get back to the studio! I will holla atcha on the hit-list this weekend!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jul-17-2007
Stanley Alpert
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with author Stanley Alpert.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-15-2007
The Boss and Jesse Malin
EXCLUSIVE interview AUDIO!
Bruce Springsteen has been one busy guy of late. In between touring with The Seeger Sessions Band, and filming his "Live In Dublin" DVD release, The Boss managed to find some time to contribute his guitar skills and vocal prowess to a song on former D Generation singer, Jesse Malin's, latest solo album, "Glitter In The Gutter." Bruce lent a hand to the song "Broken Radio," which Jesse had written about his late mother. Lucky for us, Jesse stopped by the "Off The Record" studios, and shared his Springsteen experience!
Click here to listen to Jesse Malin explain how he first met Bruce Springsteen, and how The Boss ended up playing and singing on "Broken Radio."
Click here to listen to Jesse Malin talk about filming a video for "Broken Radio" with Bruce Springsteen.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-13-2007
Judith Light
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with actress and activist Judith Light.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-13-2007
Midsummer's perfect mix of news and interviews
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests discussed various issues, including: the totalitarian trend of the Hugo Chavez regime in Venezuela, the sorry and sordid affair of the wrongly persecuted Duke lacrosse team, and the threat of this year's hurricane season. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-09-2007
UK Tribute to Brad Delp
Click here to listen to a clip of Funeral For A Friend's "Out Of Reach."
One of the U.K.'s most popular young rock bands, Funeral For A Friend, have paid homage to late Boston singer Brad Delp. In the liner notes of the Welsh band's latest album, "Tales Don't Tell Themselves," Funeral For A Friend singer Matthew Davies-Kreye penned a special word of thanks and a heartfelt dedication to Brad Delp. Take a look in the cd booklet under Matthew's "thanks" and you'll find: "[The song] Out of Reach is dedicated to the memory of Brad Delp (Boston) who inspired me to great heights. The music will miss you."
Matthew recently dropped by the "Off The Record" studios, and had this to say when we asked him about his dedication: "We were listening to a lot of Boston and there were certain elements of that song [Out Of Reach] that reminded me of Boston. And when [producer] Gil Norton came into the pre-production sessions, it struck him as well, and he said that's got a very Boston quality to it. We discussed it, and were like, well how do we put some Boston'isms into it you know with the vocals and the harmonies? We layered it up and just went crazy. And when we were recording in the studio, Darran [Smith] our guitarist, wrote on a piece of paper, "THINK BRAD DELP," and he put it up against the glass when I was doing my vocals you know as encouragement. And I hit some pretty heady vocals on the record. And then we found out sadly that Brad had passed so it was fitting to dedicate at least the vocal parts of the album to his memory because he is such an inspiration to me."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-06-2007
A week to remember and celebrate the founding of our nation.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests touched upon a variety of topics, including: the often-sordid history of the CIA, the state of the Army hospital in Landstuhl, Germany, and the effects of war privatization on our soldiers' state of affairs. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-06-2007
Ed Koch
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview is with former NYC mayor Ed Koch.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Keith Lockhart [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/lockhart3.jpg) Jul-03-2007
Keith Lockhart [continued]
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening around the world. Today's interview continues with Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-29-2007
Explosive Performances?
Thinking about going to Linkin Park's Projekt Revolution tour this summer? Be sure to bring your protective body armor. "We want to put on cool light shows and blow s**t up," singer Chester Bennington tells Billboard. "We're allowing the other bands to put on whatever show they want to put on. There's no restrictions. If everyone on the tour has the freedom to shine at their best and there's no limitations, I think the fans will walk away completely satisfied." The trek -- which kicks off July 25 in Auburn, Wash. -- also will feature My Chemical Romance, Taking Back Sunday, H.I.M. and others.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-29-2007
News and balanced commentary, without fail.....
Jim Bohannon brings balance and clarity to news coverage. This week, Jim and his guests touched upon a variety of topics, including: the always-fascinating story of Hillary Rodham Clinton, last year's controversial Tour de France, and an argument for liberalism in the modern world. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-28-2007
Shout Out to All the Idols
What's up my people!
I am so proud of my idols future and past! Shout out to Jennifer Hudson for her B.E.T award plus shouting out to Katherine McPhee for putting together a great album. I will be featuring her new song "love story" as my i pod pick coming up soon on my show! Plus this years finalists will be hitting the road next week as American Idol goes on tour!
Have a great 4th of July and next week I will let you know where season seven tryouts will be going down!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jun-28-2007
John Connolly
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening today around the world. Today's interview is with novelist John Connolly.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-25-2007
The Kinder, Gentler Police
The Police invaded the beautiful Chavez Ravine (home of the Los Angeles Dodgers) on Saturday night to a sell-out crowd of 55,000 (including Entourage's Jeremy Piven). As the final notes of Bob Marley's "Get Up Stand Up" faded from the PA system, guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland took the stage. Stewart struck the big gold gong behind his drum kit and then he and Andy Summers launched into the opening notes of "Message In A Bottle," which signaled the entrance of a black-muscle-shirt wearing Sting.
Of course Sting started the night with his now trademark band introduction. "Andy this is Stewart. Stewart this is Andy." To which Stewart quipped, "Sting, I think there are at least 20,000 people here tonight who've heard that joke before." Yes, it's old already. :)
The band hit the notes of "Synchronicity II" as the screens surrounding them lit up in homage to their last studio album together - the red, yellow, and blue of "Synchronicity."
Okay - so we're not going to give you a blow-by-blow of the entire night, but we'll tell you that the set list included a jazzed-up version of "Walking On The Moon," an extended medley of "Voices Inside My Head" and "When The World Is Running Down, You Make The Best Of What's Still Around." They did a slowed-down "Don't Stand So Close To Me," a mid-tempo "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic," a jazzy version of "Can't Stand Losing You," and Stewart Copeland broke out a plethora of percussion for "Wrapped Around Your Finger." We were happy to hear "Driven To Tears," "Bed's Too Big Without You," and "Invisible Sun." They ended the set with "Roxanne."
Now it's encore time:
Encore #1 - "quick, it's almost 11 o'clock curfew time" versions of "King Of Pain" and "So Lonely."
Encore #2 - "Every Breath You Take."
Encore #3 - a very raucous version of "Next To You." It was the only true rocker of the night.
We'll just add that it only took 30-seconds of crowd frenzy to bring the band back to the stage between encores.
Sting's pipes have never sounded better, and the band's musicianship has clearly benefited from 25-years of experience, but we agree with Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen, who said it best - he would've liked to have seen "a little more sweat."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-25-2007
Jeff Gerth
Dirk Van surveys the day's news, and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening today around the world. Today's interview is with investigative reporter Jeff Gerth.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-22-2007
Smashing Return
The Smashing Pumpkins are back with a vengeance. Whether you want to catch them live in the flesh or on the boob tube, frontman Billy Corgan & Co. are ready to bring the noise. According to the band's official site, they'll make their first late-night TV appearance in seven years when they hit CBS' Late Show With David Letterman next month for two nights. Tune in July 9 and 13 to check them out. Meanwhile, the group's new album -- Zeitgeist -- drops on July 10.
On the concert front, the Pumpkins kick off a nine-show residency in Asheville, N.C., on Saturday, June 23. In addition, they'll be co-headlining the Voodoo Music Experience 2007 during Oct. 26-28 in New Orleans with Rage Against the Machine.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-22-2007
Billie Jean King
Dirk Van surveys the day's news and checks in with correspondents to flesh out what's happening today around the world. Today's interview continues with tennis legend Billie Jean King.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-22-2007
Add a little light to go with the summer heat.....
Jim Bohannon is the trustworthy news source from a moderate American perspective. This week, Jim and his guests touched upon a variety of topics, including: the effect of growing voter apathy on the democratic process, the reality of violent anti-American groups worldwide, and the essential educational benefits of U.S. volunteer military service. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jun-21-2007
Billie Jean King
Dirk Van examines the latest veto by President Bush, this time on a stem-cell research bill; Dirk also looks into the possibility of NYC mayor Michael Bloomberg running for President as an Independent, in the wake of leaving the GOP. Today's interview is with tennis legend Billie Jean King.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Tom Segev [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/segev2.jpg) Jun-20-2007
Tom Segev [continued]
Dirk Van reports on the memorial services for the South Carolina firemen whose lives were lost in that tragic blaze, and looks into the passport backlog that currently besets American would-be travelers. Today, Dirk's interview with author Tom Segev continues.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jun-19-2007
Support Live Music
What's up my people!
I love the summer and all the fun places I get to jet off to! I'm going to be on stage presenting at the B.E.T awards the end of this month, plus I will be introducing Beyonce at the 2007 Essence Festival. And finally, I will be performing at the Live Earth Festival July 7th in New York! Make sure you support live music because there will be some amazing bands performing at all these festivals!
On the down low .......While I'm in New York I will be working on with Boys II Men (pictured here) on their new project. I can not wait for that! I'm out!
Peace Y'all
Randy!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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Jun-19-2007
Tom Segev
Dirk Van looks into the flooding in northern Texas, and checks in with the arrival of Israel's Prime Minister at the White House. Today's interview is with author Tom Segev.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-18-2007
Tesla BOXED
Click here to listen to Frank Hannon describe an early demo version of "Little Suzi," which will be included on the upcoming Tesla Box Set.
Tesla guitarists Frank Hannon and Dave Rude dropped so much information on us during their recent visit to the "Off The Record" studios, we just have to share one more thing... details on the upcoming Tesla Box Set!
OTR: What can you tell us about the upcoming box set?
FRANK: The box set for Tesla is actually going to be sort of like a closure of the first 25 years. The working title is Time Machine, it's a time capsule concept. We're going all the way back to 1983 when Brian Wheat and I first started out together. We had a little band called Earth Shaker and we found some video footage and demos from when I was 15 and he was 18. That'll be on the box set. We've got footage of some local TV shows we did right up to when Troy Luccketta, Jeff Keith and Tommy Skeoch joined us and we became Tesla. Then we're gonna get all that stuff from 1986 right up to 2006 and the departure of Tommy Skeoch, and all the material and outtakes we have with Tommy. So we're going to basically dig up every artifact we can find from Tesla's history and put it all out, and that will be closure to that era.
In the meantime, you can catch Tesla on the "Real To Reel" Tour. They just rescheduled the Las Vegas and Salt Lake City dates. Las Vegas, originally slated for June 14th will now take place Saturday, July 28th. And the Salt Lake City show, originally slated for June 15th, has now been rebooked for Friday, July 27th. Tesla issued a statement on their website, www.teslarealtoreel.com, saying: "We were very much looking forward to both dates and we apologize to all of our fans that have anxiously been awaiting the shows. Fans should hold onto their tickets, which will be honored at the rescheduled dates."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-15-2007
Tool Going Cinematic?
While Tool is in the midst of a tour in support of 10,000 Days, guitarist Adam Jones has revealed that the band is toying around with the idea of doing a movie. "It has to be a collective thing as far as the band members," Jones tells Billboard. "Everyone has to be very happy and it has to be done in a way where people would see integrity and hard work and not just something thrown together or home movies or some sh**ty filmed live show."
"We all have ideas about it," he continues. "If I had my way, it would be a narrative story in a surreal fashion with as much money and special effects we could throw at it. I think some of the other guys would like to do pockets of all of that or something that's live or we're playing. It's just talk right now." Here's hoping we see it materialize one day.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-15-2007
Summer's underway - stay informed, with Jim Bohannon
Jim Bohannon is the voice America trusts to give the straight story, morning or late-night. This week, Jim and his guests touched upon a variety of topics: from the FBI's changes in a post-9/11 world, to the issues facing truckers in today's economy, to the perennial problem of national health-care reform. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-15-2007
Ben E. King
Dirk checks in with the discouraging developments in the Middle East, where hard-line Hamas forces have taken control of Gaza. Today's celebrity interview is with singer Ben E. King.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-14-2007
Dirk Van's First Light
Dirk speaks with Tim Russert about the historically low approval ratings that are one thing that President Bush and the Democratic congress have in common. Today's show features an extra-long call-in segment, where listeners get a chance to speak their minds.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Ben Lyons [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/lyons.jpg) Jun-13-2007
Ben Lyons [continued]
Host Dirk Van takes another look at President Bush's attempt at immigration reform, and examines the age of Baby Boomer retirement. Dirk's interview today continues with E! Entertainment movie critic Ben Lyons.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-12-2007
Ben Lyons
Host Dirk Van examines the immigration dilemma; he also explores the increase in air traffic, and what that might mean for travelers. Dirk's interview today is with E! Entertainment movie critic Ben Lyons.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jun-11-2007
Respect Ya Papa
WHAT'S UP Y'ALL
ONE OF MY FAVORITE HOLIDAYS IS COMING UP THIS WEEKEND...FATHERS DAY! WHILE YOU'RE CHECKING OUT THE HITLIST MAKE SURE YOU GO OUT AND GET DAD A TIE, A WALLET OR MAYBE EVEN TICKETS TO THE IDOL TOUR!! SERIOUSLY THOUGH HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND AND GET YOUR BARBEQUE ON LIKE I'M GOING TO DO!
NEXT WEEK I WILL HAVE AN UPDATE ON MY NEW ALBUM PLUS THE LATEST SCOOP ON THE IDOL TOUR AND TRYOUTS!
HOLLA,
RANDY
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jun-11-2007
The REEL Frank Hannon of Tesla
Click here to listen to Tesla guitarist Frank Hannon talk about the video the band shot for "Thank You," which you can watch at their official website www.teslarealtoreel.com.
Click here to listen to Tesla guitarists Frank Hannon and Dave Rude run down the song list for "Real To Reel's" disc two ("Reel B"), which you can only get by going to one of the shows on Tesla's current tour:
Tesla guitarist Frank Hannon dropped by the Off The Record studios to give us the dish on the new Tesla covers album, "Real To Reel," which hit stores last Tuesday. It's actually designed to be a two-disc set, boasting a total of 25 classic rock songs from the 60s and 70s, all recorded live in the studio through a vintage Neve console directly to Ampex analog tape. Crazy, but very cool! Disc one, or "Reel A," as Frank likes to call it, is available at your favorite music outlet. Disc two, known in the Tesla camp as "Reel B," is only available at all Tesla live shows. If you buy a ticket to see Tesla, you get "Reel B" for FREE with your ticket purchase. Not a bad deal...
OTR: So Frank, how did the band choose the songs for "Real To Reel"?
FRANK: A lot of stuff we practiced on the road on our last tour [The Electric Summer Jam Tour 2006]. Our manager would play a game with us where he would bring three songs on a piece of paper to soundcheck, and say, "hey, what about this one? What about that one?" And usually two or three of the guys in the band would know it, and two wouldn't. So we would just fool around with the songs at soundcheck and by the end of soundcheck we'd have them ready for the show, and we'd play it live in the show.
OTR: What was the band's philosophy when it came time to add the Tesla stamp to some of these classic songs?
FRANK: We like to pay homage and pay respect to them and not change them for the sake of changing them. I mean you can still own a song and make it your own without totally tweaking it for the sake of tweaking it, like adding a reggae beat to [The Rolling Stones'] "Honkey Tonk Women" just to be different. A lot of people just try to be different for the sake of being different, but we like to be close to the original but just vamp it up with our style by energizing it more you know.
OTR: Speaking of "Honky Tonk Women," we love that you left The Stones' original cowbell opening.
FRANK: You can't cut out the cowbell! C'mon! There's more songs that need cowbell in the world. It's like a humanitarian effort we're trying to start (laughing).
OTR: And who played the piano part in Tesla's version of "Honky Tonk Women?"
FRANK: Honky Tonk Frank did! I love honky tonk piano so it was fun. That was the first take too and it's full of mistakes. But mistakes are good. We love mistakes. That's like a little bit of candy to chew on you know. It's like having nuts on your chocolate (laughing).
OTR: The first single from "Real To Reel" is Tesla's cover of Led Zeppelin's "Thank You." Out of all the Zep songs, why "Thank You?"
FRANK: We wanted to do a Zeppelin song, we just didn't know which one, and we were thinking about "Song Remains The Same" or "Immigrant Song" or something like that. I immediately felt that "Thank You" would be a great song for Jeff Keith to sing because the lyrics are so heartfelt, so we did it for that reason. But ironically, Jeff wasn't in the room when we cut it because he was BBQ'ing cheeseburgers with our manager [Tom Zutaut] in the house at the studio (laughing). We had to sneak the song in before they got back because Tom, our manager, said, "Oh, you can't do that song. There's no way. It's impossible." I said, "you watch this, punk (laughing)!" So when they left, Michael Rosen [the engineer] hit record, and the band and myself, I sang a scratch vocal and directed the song, got through it. It came out really good and I was really excited for Jeff and our manager to hear it. And the guitar solo on that song, again, that's from the scratch track. I didn't replace that solo at all and it's full of mistakes. And every time I hear it, I go, "Ooohhhh listen to that." It almost makes me laugh. I sound like I'm drunk.
OTR: So what did Jeff and your manager Tom Zutaut think when they heard what you'd done with "Thank You?"
FRANK: The next morning Jeff Keith and Tom Zutaut came in to hear it and they were just blown away by it. They were just going, "Wow. This is amazing," and Jeff sang it and it just sounds beautiful.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Steven Raichlen [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/raichlen3.jpg) Jun-11-2007
Steven Raichlen [continued]
Host Dirk Van takes a look at President Bush's European tour as it wraps up in Bulgaria, and checks in with the conclusion of noted TV drama 'The Sopranos'. Afterward, he returns with the second part of his interview with BBQ expert Steven Raichlen.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-08-2007
'90s Rock Part Deux
It seems like reunion fever is gripping the modern-rock world . . . again. Both Blur and Rage Against the Machine are active, or set to get busy, with their original lineups intact.
The Blur boys will be doing some recording together in October, the band's Dave Rowntree tells U.K. paper The Independent. Those sessions will mark the return of estranged guitarist Graham Coxon to the group's ranks for the first time since he quit while working on 2003's Think Tank.
And in the RATM camp, the band has something new up its sleeve -- if you believe the countdown clocks on its new website. A fresh album? A live record? A full-blown reunion tour?? Only time will tell.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-08-2007
Steven Raichlen
Host Dirk Van examines the G8 Summit's progress on global warming, and on the proposed missile defense shield in Eastern Europe. Afterward, he speaks to grillmeister Steven Raichlen.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-08-2007
All the news that's fit to print
Jim Bohannon concludes his latest week of delivering the news you care about, each and every weekday. This week, Jim and his guests explored a variety of topics: from the contentious illegal immigration debate, to the complex situation in Israel, to the machinations of Senator Clinton's campaign. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Khaled Hosseini [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/hosseini2.jpg) Jun-07-2007
Khaled Hosseini [continued]
Host Dirk Van surveys the issues confronting the G8 Summit in Germany, and examines a new development in stem-cell research. Dirk also returns to his interview with author Khaled Hosseini.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Jun-06-2007
Hello My People!
What a great week..I just got back from London with my homie Ryan Seacrest! We were over the big pond roasting Simon Cowell! It was really hard to find good things to say about Simon but we forced our way through it! :) You know Simon is my friend!
We also had some of my friends stop by for the Hit-list this week! Major props to Anthony Hamilton, John Mclaughlin and "Access Hollywoods" Billy Bush. Now it's back to the studio to get my grind on!
Holla atcha,
Randy "The Dawg"
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jun-06-2007
Khaled Hosseini
Host Dirk Van speaks on last night's Republican debate, and looks into the situation on the ground in Iraq, where some of our troops have served for as long as two years. Today's celebrity interview features author Khaled Hosseini.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Rory Kennedy [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/kennedy5.jpg) Jun-05-2007
Rory Kennedy [continued]
Host Dirk Van inquires into the status of the surge in Iraq, and checks in with the development of alternative fuels. After the usual roundup of news, sports, and weather, Dirk continues with his interview of filmmaker Rory Kennedy.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-04-2007
The Grand Illusion
Styx bassist Chuck Panozzo dropped by the "Off The Record" studios to chat with Uncle Joe about his new book, "The Grand Illusion: Love, Lies, and My Life with Styx."
Chuck told Uncle Joe all about his early music lessons from his Uncle Tony, Catholic school, how to tell the difference between the "cool nuns" and the "not-so-cool nuns," and why he left seminary after a single year.
Chuck also talked extensively about his late twin brother, and Styx drummer, John Panozzo, who passed away from alcohol-related complications in 1996, as well as Chuck's own struggles with being a gay man in rock and roll.
And not to worry, the twosome also covered plenty of Styx ground, including Chuck and John's first gig with an accordion-playing, 13-year old Dennis DeYoung, their transformation into the popular cover band TW4, how that band ultimately led to Styx, and how many dates Chuck plans to do on the upcoming Styx/Def Leppard Summer Tour.
It was quite a conversation and we'll have an airdate for you shortly. We'll also have some exclusive interview audio to post right here on offtherecordshow.com, so keep checking back!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-04-2007
Rory Kennedy
Host Dirk Van examines the Democratic presidential debate, and reports on the NYC terror plot foiled by the FBI. After the usual roundup of news, sports, and weather, Dirk interviews filmmaker Rory Kennedy.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jun-01-2007
Music That Can Not Be Named
Ever thought about how hard it is to name a new album? Korn certainly have. Jonathan Davis & Co. were so perplexed by the name game that they decided their upcoming effort shouldn't have one at all. That's right, the upcoming Korn CD has been given the handle Untitled. Look for it in stores on July 31.
Expect a few of the songs to deal with former guitarist Brian "Head" Welch. The rest of the guys in the band charge that's he's now trying to profit off the group's legacy by talking smack in a new tell-all book -- Save Me From Myself: How I Found God, Quit Korn, Kicked Drugs and Lived to Tell My Story, due July 7.
"It really irritated me that he's putting out this book and profiting off of talking s**t about us -- the guys who gave him everything in his life and put him where he's at," Davis (pictured here) told Billboard. "If you don't want to be in the band, fine, but don't go out bad mouthing us." Sounds like that could make for some really angry music!
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jun-01-2007
Another week of real news for real Americans
Jim Bohannon concludes his latest week of delivering the news you care about, each and every weekday. For once, Hollywood is doing something right: Jim spoke with producer / director Fred Ashman about Proud American, his film aiming to counter the negative portrayal of America all too common in film. Less optimistic is the impending Iran situation, which Jim discussed with Mike Evans. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Bill Engvall [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/engvall4.jpg) Jun-01-2007
Bill Engvall [continued]
Host Dirk Van looks into President Bush's new global warming initiative, and reflects upon Dr. Jack Kevorkian's release from prison. Later in the show, entertainment critic Chuck Rich chats with Elisabeth Shue. Continuing from yesterday is Dirk's interview with comedian Bill Engvall.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-31-2007
Bill Engvall
Host Dirk Van discusses Fred Thompson's presidential bid, and correspondent Tim Russert has the focus in today's close-up. Also, Dirk speaks about the man with contagious tuberculosis, and his decision to risk the health of so many by flying in airplanes. Today's interview features comedian Bill Engvall.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-30-2007
Burgers or Hotdogs?
I hope you a great Memorial day weekend. I was rockin' the Barbeque all weekend long but now it's on to Post Idol Life! I'm headed to London for some studio work on "Randy Jackson Presents," my new cd dropping very soon! Plus I will be doing some work on the new Mariah cd!
The American Idol tour tixs are selling like crazy and if the show finale was any indication of how the tour is going to be, the concert will be off the chain!
Alright I'm headed to the Airport but I will catch you on the radio this weekend!!
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 May-29-2007
Indian Summer
Aerosmith invade India later this week. Steven Tyler and crew bring their live madness to the Place Grounds stage in Bangalore on June 2nd.
Steven Tyler said on the band's official website: "We hope that this will be a good show. We are sure everyone will have an awesome time at the concert. And of course being asked to play in India will surely be an event we won't forget." Drummer Joey Kramer added: "Indian music is just wonderful. It speaks the language of the soul and is just brilliant. We are aware of some of the genres of Indian music and artistes like Pandit Ravi Shankar. We know there is a world famous music and movie scene in India and we are sure that its growing influence will continue."
Aerosmith's World Tour continues through July, and after a couple of festival dates in California at the end of the month, the band will get back to business in the studio, working on songs for a new album, which they hope to release later this year.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-29-2007
Patricia Wettig
Host Dirk Van takes another look at the Iran-U.S. meeting on Iraq, and examines the tribute to our troops this Memorial Day. In sports, the Spurs are in the driver's seat in the west. Today's interview feature is with actress Patricia Wettig.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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![Michael Apted [continued]](http://images.Westwood-Backup.com/images/todayon/apted.jpg) May-28-2007
Michael Apted [continued]
Your host examines the first high-level Iran-U.S. meeting in three decades, and reviews the Memorial Day concert on the National Mall. In sports, Barry Bonds closes to within single-digits of Hank Aaron's career home-runs record. Today's celebrity interview continues Dirk Van's conversation with filmmaker Michael Apted.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-25-2007
Boot 'Em or Root 'Em??
What do you think about the image of Kurt Cobain being used to hawk Dr. Martens footwear? The shoemaker has a new ad campaign that features the late Nirvana frontman and other dead rockers -- Ramones singer Joey Ramone, Clash singer-guitarist Joe Strummer and Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious -- draped in angelic robes in a heavenly environment with their Doc Martens on. Write in and tell Jed!
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 May-25-2007
People & Topics That Matter
Another week of unflinching news coverage, combined with dialogue between Jim and worthwhile people in the public eye. As Democrats relinquished their unreasonable demands for a troop withdrawal timetable, Tom DeLay discussed his memoir, Mike Gravel spoke of his presidential bid, and Bay Buchanan delved into the PR machine of a certain liberal candidate for the presidency. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-25-2007
Michael Apted
Host Dirk Van looks at the passage of the Iraq war funding bill, and examines a poll indicating pessimism about the situation there. The first annual First Light 'Grill & Chill' gets an introduction. Today's celebrity interview is with filmmaker Michael Apted.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-24-2007
Oh my god!
I am writing this from my blackberry but did I not predict this? Congratulations to my girl Jordin on being the next American Idol! What a great show...Green Day, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor and some of my own Idols growing up including Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, Dougie Fresh and many more!
Tryouts start again in September and I can't wait! That's it for now because I'm headed to the afterparty to get my party on!
Holla,
Randy!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 May-24-2007
Kenan Thompson returns.
Host Dirk Van examines President Bush's assertion that the Iraq war is the decisive battle in the fight against Al Qaeda. In domestic news, your host takes a look at record numbers of flights booked over this Memorial Day weekend. He also returns with Kenan Thompson, of Saturday Night Live.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-23-2007
Kenan Thompson is All That
Host Dirk Van considers the onset of hurricane season, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting thirteen to seventeen named storms. Listeners call in to give Dirk their take on healthcare. He also chats with Kenan Thompson, of Saturday Night Live, as well as All That and Kenan & Kel.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-22-2007
Sold to the Highest Bidder
Some lucky soul picked up Billy F. Gibbons' custom-painted Dean ML Electric guitar for $2500 at last Thursday's Six-String Masterpieces: The Dimebag Darrell Art Tribute charity auction, benefiting the Little Kids Rock organization.
Artist Mark Ryden's hand-painted guitar fetched the highest price at $32,500 (though it fell far below its estimated $1 million mark). Kirk Hammett of Metallica fame's silvertoned, dime-covered guitar went for $7500, as did the guitar painted by KISS axeman Ace Frehley. Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee's Dean ML Electric went for $2500.
According to Little Kids Rock, the successful auction raised $215,000.
Unfortunately, custom-painted guitars by Ozzy Osbourne and Slash didn't make it to the event in time to be included in the auction, so Little Kids Rock hope to utilize both in a future auction event.
The auction, which took place at the House Of Blues on the Sunset Strip also featured an All-Star tribute concert in honor of late Pantera and Damageplan guitarist, Darrell "Dimebag" Abbott." Among the many musicians who hit the stage to perform mostly Pantera cover songs - Staind's Aaron Lewis, Scott Ian of Anthrax, Alice In Chains, KISS' Ace Frehley, Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, Dave Navarro, and former Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul Abbott.
www.littlekidsrock.org
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-22-2007
Walter Isaacson on Einstein
Host Dirk Van looks into more developments on an Iraq funding bill, as well as Governor Bill Richardson's announcement of his presidential candidacy for president. He also speaks with Walter Isaacson, author of Einstein: His Life & Universe.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-21-2007
People Get Ready
What's up everyone!
It has been an amazing year for Idol! We are crowning our Idol this week and I have a feeling the ladies will be happy. All the past Idols will be in the house including Kelly, Carrie, Elliot, Taylor and a huge special guest! Vote, watch and show Idol some love this week!
After Idol is over I'm back working on my new album! So far I've recorded tracks with Jason Mraz, Elliot Yamin, Katherine McPhee, Brian Mckinight, Travis Tritt, Rich from Big and Rich and many more! The Dawg has been busy but I can't wait for you to hear all this new music!
That's it for now...Holla,
Randy.
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 May-18-2007
Working for The Man
Jack White is enjoying life on a major label. As he gears up for the June 19 release of Icky Thump via Warner Bros., the White Stripes frontman took some time to chat with Billboard about life working for The Man.
"We were leery for a long time ... we'd never had the trust in us to do it," he says. "It would have been a bad idea to do that on White Blood Cells. We had them all offering it then. But I think it would have been over very quickly for us. We would have been a new flavor of the week and probably would have been a one-hit wonder with 'Fell in Love With a Girl.'"
Now the band is established and pairing up with a major will probably only take their career further. Keep the great tunes coming, Jack and Meg!
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 May-18-2007
Tina Louise Grows Up, Part 2
Your host continues his interview with Tina Louise, who has released her first children's book, When I Grow Up.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-18-2007
Bringing You the Best
This week we brought you plenty of entertainers and plenty of hard news discussions alike. There was definitely something for everyone. In the former category, we had Jim talking with actor Sam Waterston of NBC's long-running "Law and Order" and also legendary singer Andy Williams. In the latter camp, we were joined by W. Thomas Smith, Jr., executive editor of World Defense Review, who is just back from Iraq; John Fortier, Research Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, who gave us his take on the Republican debate; and Matthew Currier Burden, author of "The Blog of War," who parsed the military's decision to ban the blog, YouTube and the like among its servicemen and women. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-17-2007
Tina Louise Grows Up
Host Dirk Van examines the Senate's attempt at an Iraq funding bill, and considers FEMA's statements of preparedness for this hurricane season. Also, he speaks with Tina Louise, who played Ginger on Gilligan's Island and has now released her first children's book, When I Grow Up. In closing, he shares yet more delicious recipes from the spring bake.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-16-2007
Gotta Have Heart, Part 2
Host Dirk Van returns with Samantha Mathis to talk about her new Hallmark film, A Stranger's Heart. Mathis says the film's story got her interested in the cause of organ donation. She also talked about the inner workings of life on the set of the popular TV show Lost. Meanwhile, Dirk shared more of your recipes from the spring bake!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-15-2007
Vote Early and Often
What's crackin!
American Idol is down to the Final two after this week! Will it be a guy or girl this year? Just in case you forgot, I predicted a girl with curly hair would win. Now who could that be? You have to vote and pick your favorite!
By the way make sure you watch Idol on Wednesday because my homeboys from Maroon 5 will be on the show performing live! Also with a new look and a new song Elliot Yamin will be doing his thing on the show as well....he has great song that you can hear every weekend on the Hit-List!
Sorry my people I gott a go, I'm headed to the studio to do some recording with Patti LaBelle . . .Wow!
Peace and Love,
Randy!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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May-15-2007
Gotta Have Heart
Samantha Mathis talks about her new Hallmark film, A Stranger's Heart. The actress says the film portrays the journey of a woman who experiences life anew for the first time after she gets a heart transplant. Dirk also shares some of your recipes, including a better-than-sex cake!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-15-2007
Goin' Under the Hammer
ZZ Top's Billy F. Gibbons has created a hand-painted Dean ML Electric guitar (pictured here) for Six-String Masterpieces: The Dimebag Darrell Art Tribute charity auction. The auction, a tribute to late Pantera and Damageplan guitarist, Darrell "Dimebag" Abbott, benefits Little Kids Rocks, a music education program for public schools in America.
The auction takes place this Thursday at the House of Blues on the infamous Sunset Strip. And if you can't be there to bid in-person, log onto www.LittleKidsRock.org/6string for an online try at one of 60 custom-painted guitars from the likes of Sammy Hagar, Ozzy Osbourne, Michael Anthony of Van Halen fame, Heart's Nancy Wilson, Kirk Hammett of Metallica, Motley Crue's Tommy Lee, Smashing Pumpkin Billy Corgan, KISS axeman Ace Frehley, Ted Nugent, Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine, Dave Navarro, among many others.
The Billy F. Gibbons' creation has a south-of-the-border cantina vibe in both color and design, loaded with red, gold, and green psychedelic swirls. Metallica's Kirk Hammett on-the-other-hand, painted his Dean ML Electric a shiny silver and then covered the entire body and headstock with hundreds of dimes. He also included a photo of Darrell "Dimebag" Abbott and a handwritten note on the tail fin of the guitar.
Check out photos of all 60 custom-painted guitars at www.LittleKidsRock.org/6string.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-14-2007
From Parent to Child
Mother/daughter duo Julie Andrews Edwards and Emma Walton Hamilton returns to chat with host Dirk Van about their latest book, Thanks to You: Wisdom From Mother and Child. In writing the tome, Andrews says she discovered that parents can learn a great deal from their children. The famed actress also talked about her namesake book collection that's commercially available. Great stuff from a great lady.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-11-2007
Thanks Mom!
What a great week of guests we had! From Mother's Day to the Queen, we had guests talking about it all. Former White House Social Secretary Lea Berman gave us the skinny of the state dinner honoring Queen Elizabeth. Ralph Nader told us about his new book The Seventeen Traditions, a tome influenced by the lessons he learned from his mother and the rest of his family. We even had actress Samantha Mathis discussing the Hallmark Channel movie A Stranger's Heart. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests right here!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-11-2007
Give Thanks
Just in time for Mother's Day, host Dirk Van chats with mother/daughter duo Julie Andrews Edwards and Emma Walton Hamilton about their latest book, Thanks to You: Wisdom From Mother and Child. The tome celebrates the parent/child relationship, and Edwards and Hamilton say they actually finished writing the book on Mother's Day last year! Plus, Dirk calls for your cake recipes for the spring bake.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-10-2007
Bring Me Back To Life
Well, it was a week of growth for modern rock in more ways than one. First off, we had news that Killers leader Brandon Flowers and his wife, Tana, are expecting their first child in July. The child is said to be a boy. Then we learned that Evanescence's Amy Lee (pictured) reportedly married her fiancé, psychiatrist Josh Hartzler. So take that, Shaun Morgan! Here's hoping the good news keeps coming.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 May-10-2007
Love at First Sight
Larry Doyle talks about his new book, I Love You, Beth Cooper. Doyle describes it as a mash-up of a lot of teen movies that will bring back the good old days in your mind. Meanwhile, host Dirk Van shares your e-mails on gas prices. Get ready for an earful!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-08-2007
Randy Jackson Presents . . . (Shh!!!)
What's up ya'll!
I don't know about you but I'm still recovering from Cinco De Mayo! What a weekend but what a week ahead! In Idol news we go from four to three, it is your duty to vote and vote often this week! I really feel we have the four best contestants going for it this week!
I am also excited about my new album! "Randy Jackson presents" has been so amazing to work on so far but I can't give you too much info. because I have some serious stars on the album!
Finally, I want to shout out to Marques Houston and Jon Mclaughlin who stopped by the Hit-list this week! We'll be talking to them about life, love, and of course their new albums! Check out the Hit-list in your town this weekend!
Holla,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 May-08-2007
Fits to a Tee, Part 2
John Feinstein joins Dirk again to talk about the rigors of trying to get into the game of golf. Get the real scoop on Q School right here. Meanwhile, Dirk shares your e-mails about the Iraq War and more.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-08-2007
Beatlejuice Pays Tribute to Brad Delp
Brad Delp's much-beloved other band, Beatlejuice, paid tribute to the late Boston frontman last week with a three-night stand of shows at the Regent Theater in Arlington, Massachusetts. We have some highlights to share from the Wednesday May 3rd concert.
The solo-out crowd opened the night with a standing ovation in homage to Brad Delp. After several sorrowful moments, Fools frontman Mike Girard got things started with high-energy performances of "If I Needed Someone" and "Revolution."
Original Beatlejuice guitarist Bob Squires drew one of the biggest crowd responses of the night during his George Harrison-heavy set, and Dave Mitchell wasn't far behind in the crowd-pleasing thanks to his soloing on "While My Guitar Gently Weeps."
Joe Fielding conjured John Lennon for "She Said, She Said" and Buddy Bernard did his best Paul McCartney on "All My Loving."
The crowd took over vocals for "Hey Jude" and "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds"... but left vocal quintet Five O'Clock Shadow to do justice to a very moody version of "Eleanor Rigby," along with "She's Leaving Home" and "Because."
Juice In The Machine vocalist Jimmy Rogers covered "Hard Day's Night."
All three celebratory shows were coordinated by Beatlejuice drummer and longtime Brad Delp friend, John Muzzy.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-07-2007
Fits to a Tee
Host Dirk Van talks to sports writer John Feinstein. As the author of Tales from Q School, Feinstein reveals what it was like in the early days of golf for players who wanted to qualify for the PGA to work in golf shops as part of their training! Meanwhile, Dirk shares your e-mails on immigration.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-04-2007
Three Cheers for Rick
Rick Reilly of Sport Illustrated talked to host Dirk Van about his new book Hate Mail From Cheerleaders and Other Adventures from the Life of Reilly. The tome compiles 100 of his best columns and the money goes to fight malaria among African children.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-03-2007
Love to Sell Kurt's Stuff?
Want to own some of Kurt Cobain's threads and other cool stuff? Courtney Love recently revealed she wants to auction off the bulk of the belonging she still has from of the late Nirvana leader. Some of the proceeds will go to charity.
"My daughter doesn't need to inherit a giant hefty bag full of flannel f**king shirts," she says. "A sweater, a guitar and the lyrics to '[Smells Like] Teen Spirit' -- that's what my daughter gets."
What will you get if the auction becomes a reality?
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 May-02-2007
Friends: The Book, Not The TV Show
Host Dirk Van chats again with Hollywood couple Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance about their new book, Friends: A Love Story. Courtney weighs in on what men have to do to keep that fire burning in a relationship. In short, Vance says the woman is queen. Meanwhile, Angela reveals when their relationship turned from friendship to romance. Finally, Dirk also shares your e-mails on combating TV addiction at a young age.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 May-01-2007
Thanks the Donations, Dawg!
What's up everyone!
I can't express how much Paula, Simon, Ryan and myself appreciate you donating your hearts out to Idol Gives Back! We raised over 60 million dollars for Africa and the U.S. and we couldn't have done it without you!
This week's show is going to be amazing! We are eliminating two contestants so you know the pressure will be instense!! My good friend Jon Bon jovi will be mentoring the contestants and will be performing on Wednesday! Wow...is there enough going on? I will holla atcha this weekend!
Peace,
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 May-01-2007
"Dream" On
One-time Journey frontman, Robert Fleischman, has just released a new solo album, "Look At The Dream." He stopped by the "Off The Record" studios to discuss his latest creative endeavor, songwriting, myspace, and Journey's star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
Q: What inspired the timing behind the release of your new solo album, "Look At The Dream?"
Robert Fleischman: I was with Journey and we received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame. So after that, I played with them, did "Wheel In The Sky" with them onstage at the House of Blues [in Los Angeles]. After that I got the bug again so I started writing, and I took about a year recording and writing simultaneously.
Q: Where do you keep the plaque commemorating Journey's star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame?
Robert Fleischman: Well right now my house is being remodeled and so everything's kind of like havoc, stuff put in boxes, so I don't know. I won't put it in the bathroom (laughing), though it probably belongs there (laughing).
Q: Describe your writing process for "Look At The Dream."
Robert Fleischman: When I write, I usually write with an acoustic guitar. I don't write with an electric because then that kind of overcolors things and so writing with an acoustic guitar becomes much more intimate. I always figure if you can get a song and break it down with just a melody and the vocal and the lyric and the acoustic guitar, and it stands by itself like that, then you've got a really good song. Everything else just becomes fluff. So I record with a drum machine because I don't like to write with a drummer because the drummer creates the energy. So what I try to do is I try to create all the music with guitars and everything, get all the energy from the music, and then I record the drums so that I have that energy and it just enhances that when the drums are put in. (click here for audio)
Q: There's an acoustic song called "Déjŕ vu" on your new solo album, "Look At The Dream." What inspired you to tackle that subject?
Robert Fleischman: I've had a lot of weird experiences in my life and lived in a house that was sort of haunted, and had weird experiences there and things like that.
Q: So have you always believed in or been open to the supernatural/paranormal?
Robert Fleischman: Yeah. One time my mom had her birthday and my brother and my sister and my brother-in-law and my wife, there was this birthday party, and we stayed the night over at my mom's, and I felt this presence like everybody in my family was there. I explained it to my mom and I just really got emotional and broke down, started crying. I could feel them then you know, and it was really bizarre, but I have a really weird experience with my father. He passed away and now he leaves pennies for us. Like when I got out of the shower, on the mat, there's a penny. I don't know how that penny got there. I get out of my car and there's like a pile of pennies, like somebody had pennies in their ashtray and they just dumped it there, and I find them. Like something's going on in my life and I'm nervous, and I'll find a penny and I'll feel ok, but it's weird. So then one day I asked my dad, 'Can you make it into quarters and dimes?' (laughing) So then I started finding dimes. It was really funny. (click here for audio)
Q: You released "Look At The Dream" digitally on iTunes before physically releasing it in more traditional retail outlets.
Robert Fleischman: Well digital has changed you, me, and the world, and I really embraced it because I felt this was a way for musicians of reinventing yourself again. You know, everybody has access to it now and if you know how to manipulate it and work with it, and you know, wield it so you can get as much power out of it through exploiting your music, I suggest people should do that. Everyone's pretty hip to it now. You know, myspace and iTunes and whatever you know everybody's pretty much got their thumb on the pulse of that. (click here for audio clip)
Q: You have your own myspace page...
Robert Fleischman: Myspace for me has been like really amazing, and I've only been on it for a really short time. But I've got really great response from it.
Q: You released the new solo album, "Look At The Dream," on your own record label, Spirit Box Music. What inspired you to launch your own label?
Robert Fleischman: Years ago you know, you were with a label and you had no control over it and that's what kind of made me do this because I was sick and tired of people sort of putting a square peg in a round hole. I'd have A&R people from like Geffen and CBS and all these people, and they're always going, "OK Robert, there's this band that just lost their lead singer," and they'll give you a ticket to go to London and go play with them you know. And I go there and it was never right. It was always like brown shoes with a tuxedo you know, it just never was quite right. And the band would kind of resent you know that the record company is coming here and doing all this stuff and it's a very uncomfortable situation to be in. And that was sort of like the situation with Journey also you know because I did a showcase in Colorado and all these CBS people came. And then about 2 weeks later they asked me if I'd be interested in going to San Francisco to see this band Journey. You know, I sat with all the executives and the President of CBS Records, and they're going, "Oh this band is doing this and this and we feel that they need a lead singer because if not, we're going to drop the band." And I'm going, "Wow you know, I'm going to get in a situation where I'm gonna be like the balance of it. It's either gonna go up or it's gonna go down. So they flew me to San Francisco, and I went there and started rehearsing with them, but it was really odd for them because they were such a jazz, rock fusion band at the time you know. And here I came in, and I come from a really song-oriented, pop background, and so it's like I re-arranged their furniture you know. It's kind of hard to go into somebody's house and all of a sudden re-arrange their furniture. They're just gonna take a look back and kind of lear and wonder what the heck is that kid doing you know.
Q: Do you have any plans to tour in support of "Look At The Dream?"
Robert Fleischman: I'd like to tour if the record starts getting some legs. Yeah I'd love to get back on the old bicycle again.
Robert Fleischman's new solo album "Look At The Dream," is available now via his website www.robertfleischman.com.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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May-01-2007
Love, Hollywood Style
Host Dirk Van talks to Hollywood couple Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance about their new book, Friends: A Love Story. Get the scoop on their first date, the secrets of their relationship's success and more. Dirk also reads your e-mail about the educational benefits of TV, prune cake and more!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-27-2007
Beasties To Flip Your Wig on Next Album
The Beastie Boys are ready to fight for your right to rock on their next album. In an exclusive interview, Mike D tells NME.com that the Beasties' long-awaited follow-up to 2005's To the 5 Boroughs will be titled The Mix Up and should hit stores in June.
"We play instruments on the whole album, as opposed to sampling," the Diamond One explains. "There's more rock on there. If you know us you can trace the influences and they're no completely surprising. Someone who listens to us casually might think 'What the hell are these guys doing?' It might make you flip your wig right off, or your hairpiece, if you're a casual listener."
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Apr-27-2007
Green Piano Man
Host Dirk Van talks to Rolling Stones keyboardist Chuck Leavell about his serious arbor fixation. Leavell is a tree farmer who says tending trees is a nice balance to life as a rock and roller. But let's cut to the chase: Who's a better band, the Stones or the Allman Brothers? Will Chuck reveal all? Tune in to find out!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-27-2007
The News Keeps Coming
Coming out of the funk of the Virginia Tech massacre, Jim returned to other a wide variety of other news topics this past week. We had Newsweek investigative correspondent Michael Isikoff addressing the question of whether Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is likely to retire anytime soon. Then there was Grace-Marie Turner, founder and president of the Galen Institute, who spoke to Jim about testifying before a House subcommittee on the need for universal health coverage.
Speaking of health-related issues, the topic of food safety was once again on the table Thursday -- when we heard from Carolyn Smith DeWaal, food safety program director at the Center for Science in the Public Interest. And we wrapped the week up with George Washington University Political Science Professor Henry Nau, who told us what could follow the president's inevitable veto of the Iraq spending bill. Keep tuning in and logging on for all the best guests.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-26-2007
Mo' Moyers
Host Dirk Van talks to Bill Moyers again. The respected journalist shares the lessons he's taken from the American invasion of Iraq. Moyers is uniquely qualified to talk about this issue. As a former White House Press Secretary, that job predated his journalism career. Plus, Dirk shares your e-mails on violence in the arts.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-24-2007
Blogiliscious!!
What's up People!
This week American Idol gives back! You've been hearing about it for weeks and now it's the moment of truth! Everyone that votes this week contributes to helping end hunger in Africa and America! Please vote and vote often! Special guests include Annie Lennox, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Ellen Degeneres, Pink, Bono, Gwen Stefani, Quincy Jones and many more!
It's also important you vote this week because you are deciding the Top 5 American Idol Finalists! Can you believe Sanjaya is gone? Big props to Sanjaya but now it's crunch time baby and we need you to be in the house!
The Dawg is out!
-Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Apr-23-2007
Get Some Fashion Sense
Host Dirk Van talks to Gigi Anders, the author of Men May Come and Men May Go, But I've Still Got My Little Pink Raincoat. Anders says the men in her life are like clothes, which is to say that she remembers dates by what she wore. The book explores how men and women approach getting ready for a date in completely different ways. Plus, Dirk shares your e-mails on the Fair Tax question, Imus, Virginia Tech and more.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-20-2007
VH1 Rock Honors Goes Modern
The upcoming VH1 Rock Honors is turning into a modern-rock love fest. Alice in Chains, Queens of the Stone Age, Keane and Nickelback will honor the music of veteran acts like Ozzy Osbourne, Genesis, Heart and ZZ Top. The ceremony, which takes place May 12 in Las Vegas, will air on VH1 on May 24.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Apr-20-2007
Times That Try Men's Souls
This past week will long be remembered as a trying one for our nation. The senseless killings at Virginia Tech wounded us all. Much of our airtime was dedicated to bringing you a variety of voices on the tragedy.
There was tremendous debate over gun safety in the wake of the massacre. Jim talked with Mike Hammond of the group Gun Owners of America and Dr. Diana Zuckerman, director of the National Research Center for Women and Families to get some perspective.
We also heard from Jim Kouri, vice president of the National Association of Chiefs of Police; and Barri Bumgarner, an author and former teacher who has written the young adult novel "Dregs" that deals with the all too familiar topic of violence in the classroom. Here's hoping our country can begin its healing process.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-18-2007
Boston Strangler Revisited Part II
Host Dirk Van talks again to Sebastian Junger. The New York Times bestselling author of A Death in Belmont shares a close call his mother had with the Boston Strangler -- who was working briefly as the family's carpenter! Meanwhile, Dirk also shares your e-mails on the Virginia Tech massacre.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-18-2007
Cheap Trick & The Beatles
Cheap Trick are headed to the Hollywood Bowl. The Rockford, IL boys will spend two Summer nights, August 10th and 11th, as the house band at the famed venue, in honor of the 40th Anniversary of The Beatles' landmark album, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." The Trick, along with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and some special surprise guest vocalists (to be named at a later date), will play the "Sgt. Pepper's" album in its entirety. For a preview of what you might hear come August, check out "Off The Record" with your Uncle Joe Benson the weekend of May 5/6, 2007.
In other "Off The Record" news... We caught up with former Journey singer Robert Fleischman, who talked about Journey's star dedication on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, performing with the guys after 20 years, the supernatural, and of course, his new solo album, "Look At The Dream." Check back next week for highlights from that conversation.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-17-2007
Giving Something Back
What's up Y'all!
Was J-lo the bomb or what? The hips, the lips and of course the singing! Shout out to my girl Jennifer Lopez for a great performance last week! This week is country week with Martina McBride making a special appearance and performance! Sanjiya singing country?
Next week is "Idol gives back week" with tons of special guests donating their time including Josh Groban, Pink and many more! Every vote you cast helps eliminate poverty and hunger in America and Africa! Our corporate sponsors have really stepped up the donations with over 13 million dollars donated so far!
I had a chance to visit the FEMA camps in Katrina ravaged New Orleans over the weekend and let me just tell you that we need your donations and lot's of them! Please vote often next week and help Idol give back!
Thanks for Love,
Randy Jackson
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Apr-17-2007
Boston Strangler Revisited
Host Dirk Van talks to New York Times bestselling author Sebastian Junger about A Death in Belmont, now out in paperback. Get the scoop on this gripping true story of race and crime in a sleepy Boston suburb. More coming tomorrow!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-16-2007
Primetime Martin
Host Dirk Van chats again with Martin Short. The comedian discusses the origin of his Jiminy Glick character, and reflects on his early years when he planned on being a social worker! Dirk also shares your e-mails.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-13-2007
Lonely No More
A slew of modern-rock bands like the Killers (pictured here), the Kaiser Chiefs and the Fratellis are set to pay tribute to the 40th anniversary of the Beatles' legendary Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.
The acts will re-record songs from the classic album for a June 2 special that will be featured on England's BBC Radio 2.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Apr-12-2007
Hello J-Lo!
WHAT'S UP FAMILY,
COULD SANJIYA BE THE NEXT IDOL? YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN WEEK TO WEEK ON IDOL SO KEEP THE VOTES ROLLIN IN!
I HAVE TO SEND A SHOUT OUT TO MY MAN TONY BENNETT WHO WAS SUPPOSE TO SING THIS PAST WEEK BUT CAME DOWN WITH THE FLU! MICHAEL BUBLE FILLED IN BUT MY MAN WAS REAL NERVOUS AND A BIT INTIMIDATED BUT WOULDN'T YOU BE IF YOU HAD TO SING LIVE IN FRONT OF 40 MILLION PEOPLE?
CHECK OUT IDOL THIS WEEK AS JENNIFER LOPEZ HITS THE STAGE WITH ALL THE IDOLS! IT SHOULD BE A LOVELY EVENT!
PEACE OUT!
THE DAWG,
RANDY JACKSON
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Apr-12-2007
Imus, Duke and Anna -- Oh My!
What a big news week we had. Imus, the Duke players and the resolution of the Anna Nicole Smith paternity question were a few of the major stories.
We heard from Joe Watson, CEO of Strategic Hire, Inc., and Dr. Boyce Watkins, assistant professor of finance at Syracuse University on the Imus issue. Be sure to vote in our poll, which you'll find over to the right. Keep tuning in and logging on!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-11-2007
Boston and Beatlejuice
Rumors are swirling about a handful of Brad Delp Tribute concerts being planned for the coming months. Your favorite Unc has investigated those reports, and here's the official word.
Brad Delp's beloved Beatles cover band, Beatlejuice, has put together two tribute shows at the Regent Theater in Arlington, Massachusetts for May 3rd and May 4th. "In My Life - A Concert For Brad," will feature the Beatlejuice band fronted by a host of special guests on vocals. Among the many singers taking part over the course of the two-night event, Mike Girard, Buddy Bernard, Brian Maes, Gardner Berry, Lisa Guyer, Jimmy Rogers, Dave Stefanelli, Michael Troy, Peter Distefano of Porno For Pyros fame, MaryBeth Maes, Charlie Farren, Bob Squires, Mike Greeley, Patty Barkas, and Brad's Boston bandmate Kimberly Dahme.
Beatlejuice drummer, John "Muzz" Muzzy told us that he and his Beatlejuice bandmates, Steve Baker, Joe Holaday, and Dave Mitchell, felt these tribute shows were the best way to "share memories of our wonderful friend." Muzz also said, "We thought this would be a fitting forum for us to do what we can and to get together - to sing, cry, hopefully laugh a little, and remember all that Brad has meant to each and every one us."
Each of the special guest singers performing on Thursday and Friday night, will share their personal stories about Brad, and offer their own interpretations of the Beatles music.
Uncle Joe has also received word that Mr. & Mrs. Tom Scholz, Mr. & Mrs. Gary Phil, drummer Jeff Neal, and the current Boston line-up will all attend as audience members to honor Brad's memory and support Brad's Beatlejuice friends and family.
For more information about this special event or to purchase tickets, visit www.regenttheatre.com or call .
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-11-2007
Hear Fame in Your Home
Host Dirk Van talks to Martin Short about the release of the soundtrack from his recent Broadway show Fame Becomes Me. Short says the CD captures "the insanity of the show." Meanwhile, Dirk shares your e-mails on the Imus scandal.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-10-2007
Rohm If You Want To
Host Dirk Van chats again with Elizabeth Rohm. The actress talks about some of her non-Law & Order projects, which include the upcoming ABC film Masters of Science Fiction that will be narrated by Stephen Hawking.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-09-2007
Rohm-an Holiday
Host Dirk Van talks to Elizabeth Rohm about her volunteer work for the Red Cross. The Law & Order actress discusses the Hometown Heroes campaign. Her poster is pictured here to the left. Rohm also reveals that she'll be heading to Walter Reed to visit with injured troops.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-06-2007
Eating Hearty and Healthy
Host Dirk Van continues his chat with the Discovery Channel's Healthy Decadence host Devin Alexander. The chef and food expert confesses to being a real meat-and-potatoes girl. So don't expect any "rabbit food" on her show! But do expect it to be really healthy! Alexander also talked about working with Julia Child and graduating from the same school that the famed chef did.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-05-2007
Here's to Your Health
Host Dirk Van talks to the Discovery Channel's Healthy Decadence host Devin Alexander. The chef and food expert is dedicated to helping you make meals like chicken parmigiana and even chocolate cake in a healthy way.
Meanwhile, Dirk goes through your listener e-mails about the Iraq timetable for troop withdrawal, the Walter Reed scandal, the "friendly fire" death of Pat Tillman and more.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-04-2007
Diamond Dave Part II
Host Dirk Van chats again with Hall of Famer Dave Winfield. The celebrated baseball player talks about how the communal nature of our nation has faded away, and how he thinks baseball can help bring that feeling back. Winfield also wants the MLB to help more inner-city youth get into the game and go to college. Plus, get the latest update on e-mails from Dirk!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-03-2007
A Flea by Any Other Name
Flea has been the victim of an impersonation on MySpace. The Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea's identity has been hijacked by a virtual identity thief who spewed out hateful messages in his name.
"I understand that this person has been sending out notes that are racist and insulting and disgusting," the real Flea writes in an online post. "I [feel] terrible that someone would send out racist messages period and even worse that it is done in my name."
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Apr-03-2007
Gwen and Tony in the House
What's up Y'all!
What a great week for American Idol! Paula, Simon, Ryan and myself would like to thank all of our fans for voting Idol your favorite T.V. show on the Nicklelodeon Kids choice awards! And speaking of Idol wasn't Gwen Stefani hot last week? This week we have the amazing Grammy award winning Tony Bennett hanging out with the Idols! Will Sanjaya make it to the next round? Wow, who knows but you have to make sure you vote! On a personal note I'm wrapping up production of the Travis Tritt album. And be on the lookout for my album featuring a ton of my musical friends!
That's it for now..Peace my People!
Randy
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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Apr-03-2007
Diamond Dave
Host Dirk Van talks with Dave Winfield. The Hall of Famer discusses his new book Dropping the Ball: Baseball's Troubles and How We Can And Must Solve Them. Winfield says baseball must change with the times by competing with new forms of entertainment and reflecting our culture's diversity.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-03-2007
Sports and More!
With March Madness wrapping up and baseball season getting into gear again, we've brought you some great guests from the sports world over the past couple of shows. We had legendary broadcaster Johnny Holliday (pictured here), author of "Maryland Terrapins Men's Basketball: Great Moments in Team History," and Lance Williams of the San Francisco Chronicle, co-author of "Game of Shadows" to name just a few.
Meanwhile, we also kept you current on national news with pet expert Steve Dale discussing the cat and dog food scare and Army Col. Mitch Mitchell (ret.), a CBS News military consultant, talking about Pat Tillman's death. Keep it tuned in and logged on right here!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-02-2007
These Days Are Ours . . .
Host Dirk Van talks again to Marion Ross and Erin Moran of Happy Days. The TV mother-daughter duo would love to do a reunion show that could be directed and produced by Ron Howard! Ross also talks about some of her other maternal roles and Moran talks about branching out and doing plays. Keep tuning in and logging on for the best guests!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-02-2007
Wyman Shoots
Former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman has launched his first photography exhibition in the United States, and yes, it's loaded with plenty of interesting subject matter. His fellow bandmates, John Lennon, The Who, John Lee Hooker, and many more, all captured in offhand moments, often from the side of the stage, comprise a majority of the collection. Wyman even has a shot of Keith Richards sporting a black eye courtesy of Chuck Berry. And of course there are plenty of pictures of the exotic places he visited while touring with the Stones - the Australian Outback, Fiji and Bali, to name a few. The exhibit, "Wyman Shoots" is currently running at the Los Angeles Gallery until April 18th. It then moves to the La Jolla Gallery in the San Diego area, where it will remain open through May 20th. And though Bill Wyman himself is unable to make any appearances in the States in conjunction with the exhibition, fans will have a chance to interact with him via a live webcast and chat on Sunday April 29th. Got to www.morrisonhotelgallery.com to take part.
Your Uncle Joe Benson will also host Bill Wyman on an upcoming edition of "Off The Record." The two friends will chat about Bill's love of photography, the current "Wyman Shoots" exhibition, and I betcha Uncle Joe will convince the bassist to drop a couple of stories about some classic Stones tunes. Uncle Joe and Bill Wyman invade the radio airwaves the weekend of April 14/15th. Call your local station for airtime.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-31-2007
These Days Are Ours . . .
Host Dirk Van talks to Marion Ross and Erin Moran of Happy Days. The TV mother-daughter duo fondly remember their 11 years on the hit TV show. What are they up to now? Well, let's just say it involves a familial cruise in the Mediterranean and elsewhere. Tune in and log on for more details!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-30-2007
Baseball Springs Eternal
Host Dirk Van talks to Westwood One's spring training reporter Kevin Delany. The latter shares the scoop on teams gearing up for the season. Delany is rooting for the Phillies and talks about the experience of fans convening to cheer on their favorite teams.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-28-2007
Martian Communication?
So what do you think of the new video for 30 Seconds to Mars' hit single "From Yesterday"??????
The clip runs over 10 minutes in length and was filmed in the People's Republic of China. It's the first video by an American rock band filmed in the communist nation. So far reaction to the clip has been mixed. Some love it and praise its revolutionary scope (no pun intended) while others thinks it's a piece of, uh, pomp.
Visit GRAMMYRadio.com and click on the picture of Jared to watch a backstage interview where he discusses "From Yesterday" and more.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-28-2007
Boomers Forever Part II!
Host Dirk Van chats again with Dr. Ken Dychtwald about the Boomer generation. New mass media, Vietnam, rebellion against authority and more were topics of discussion. Dychtwald is the host of The Boomer Century on PBS. Keep tuning in for more from the best guests.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Mar-27-2007
More Wardrobe Malfunctions?
What's up Y'all,
Another week of Idol is on and of course that means more Idol drama! You might of noticed LuLu was a little late for her performance last Wednesday! Another wardrobe malfunction? LuLu was over-exposed right before her performance but she was able to pull it together and pull off another great Idol performance!
The Sanjaya phenom continues..Did you see him on Saturday Night Live? Make sure you watch Idol on Fox and vote for your favorite Idol this week!
And finally, make sure you look out for me and my girl Paula on the Nickelodeon Kids Choice awards this weekend! It's all about the kids, baby!
I'm out!!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-26-2007
Takin' Care of Business
Uncle Joe Benson has been one busy guy the last week or so... busy chatting up some great musicians for "Off The Record." We'll break it down for ya...
Tommy Shaw and Jack Blades dropped by the "Off The Record" studios, with guitars in-hand. They talked about their new Shaw-Blades album, "Influence," and played a few songs from the disc. There was a lot of laughter, a lot of joking (Jack Blades laughingly mimic'ing his alternate version of Night Rangers' "Sister Christian" - "Sisters Bitchin'"), and some seriously good playing and singing. Check out "Off The Record" next weekend to hear it for yourself. And be sure to give a listen to the exclusive online Shaw-Blades interview right here at OffTheRecordShow.com!!
Joe also spent a little quality one-on-one time with REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin (pictured here). Kevin filled Joe in on the new REO album, "Find Your Own Way Home." They also talked about Brad Delp, whom Kevin referred to as one of the nicest rock and rollers in the business. Plus, Kevin shared some stories about the last tour REO did with Boston. That'll be hitting the "Off The Record" airwaves in the near future.
And if you're wondering what former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman has been up to since leaving the seminal rock & roll band, your Uncle Joe's got those answers for ya! He and Mr. Wyman had a lengthy conversation about Bill's latest creative undertaking - an exhibition of his photography! We'll have more details about that, including where you can view the photos, coming soon.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-23-2007
Maude Actress Speaks
Host Dirk Van chats again with actress Adrienne Barbeau. The Maude actress talks about the difference between television now and 30 years ago. Barbeau also talks about the challenges of her off-Broadway career.
Meanwhile, Dirk issues another call for recipes for the spring bake. Send in your cake recipes!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-23-2007
It's Miller Time
If you're a regular Jim Bohannon listener, you probably know that he's featured comedian Dennis Miller as a guest and a fill-in host over the last few weeks. Now it's time for Miller to finally launch his own self-titled show. The Dennis Miller Show will premiere via Westwood One beginning Monday, March 26. Check out the website here. Happy listening!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-22-2007
Digital Tull At Last
Finally! Jethro Tull has made their entire discography available as digital downloads on iTunes. In all, 30 titles can be purchased online, including studio efforts, live albums and retrospectives. One of the releases is a brand-new compilation titled "The Best of Acoustic Jethro Tull." The collection features 24 unplugged tunes plus two bonus live recordings of previously unreleased songs.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-21-2007
When Your Heart Skips a Beat
Are K-Fed and a bewigged Britney Spears back together? No, that's a picture of +44 drummer Travis Barker and his ex-wife Shanna Moakler! The punk-rock couple is back together after splitting last year.
If you don't believe it, check out the rest of the pictures from a birthday party the former Blink-182 stickman threw for Moakler recently.
Will the reunited lovebirds remain together, or are they destined to be another Pamela Anderson/Tommy Lee on-again, off-again duo? Only time will tell . . .
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-21-2007
The Wonder of the Galapagos
Host Dirk Van continues his chat with the National Geographic Channel's Mike Heithaus. The marine biologist talks about efforts to keep the Galapagos Islands pristine. Heithaus was on First Light to promote the NGC special Galapagos. Keep tuning in and logging on for more from the best guests!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-20-2007
Paula's Wardrobe Malfunction
What's happening!!
Can you believe we are down to the top 10? Idol is on fire with over 50 million people watching weekly! Thanks for all the love America! Speaking of Idol, I have some behind the scene scoop for ya! Last week Paula had a wardrobe malfunction. Did you see it? Yes, Paula's "strap" snapped right before the show but all was good when her hair came to the rescue! Speaking of my girl Paula, be on the lookout for her greatest hits coming out soon! That's it for now and I will talk to you on the Hit List this weekend!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-20-2007
A New Era for the Surviving Members of the Doors?
Riders on the Storm - the group featuring Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek and guitarist Robby Krieger - have tapped ex-Fuel frontman Brett Scallions for mic duties.
Scallions replaces Ian Astbury, who left to regroup with his previous band the Cult. Manzarek enthusiastically praises Scallions in a web post. "Big voice, commanding stage presence. Prowls like a cat. 6 feet tall, 165 lbs. Blond spiked out hair. Wears leather like it's licorice. I'm really excited about his joining the band," the keyboardist raves. "And the new songs are going to be great with Brett's voice on them. I can't wait to tour and for all of you to see him. It's a new era!"
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-19-2007
Islands in the Stream
Host Dirk Van talks to the National Geographic Channel's Mike Heithaus about the NGC special Galapagos. Heithaus calls the famed islands "little mini living laboratories" and discusses how they played a major role in Darwin's theory of evolution.
Turning to your e-mail, Jen in Oshkosh writes in to say March Madness betting isn't a big problem; what really bugs her is how much men watch sports on television! Terry in Annapolis, meanwhile, shares thoughts about free trade and Mexican trucking initiatives.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-16-2007
The Best in Broadcast
Another great weeks of guests! We had Kenneth Jost, writer for Congressional Quarterly's CQ Weekly, weighing in on this week's dismissal of eight U.S. Attorneys and how the move may lead back to the Attorney General; Barbara Cochran, president of the Radio-Television News Directors Association, explaining the significance of "Sunshine Week" and its relation to Freedom of Information Day; and Missouri Treasurer Sarah Steelman, discussing the Divest Terror Initiative that she's supporting.
We'll keep the interesting guests coming to your radio every day. Log on and tune in as often as possible!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-16-2007
Dance The Night Away
Host Dirk Van returns with sports writer John Feinstein, author of the new paperback book Last Dance: Behind the Scenes at the Final Four.
Feinstein explains why the stakes are so high for coaches and even more so for players, who will only get a three or four year window to get the glory. The author discusses Duke, college hoops and the emotion of the tournament.
On the e-mail front, Troy in Casper, Wyoming, writes in about snoring and why he wants to try the tennis ball trick for his wife! Sharon in Billings, Montana, shares her thoughts on Dirk's recent show on truck safety and Jeannie in Sun City, Arizona, says the whole fear of computers crashing with the early change in daylight-saving time was "much ado about nothing."
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-14-2007
A PEARL OF A NIGHT
So the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame thing went down on Monday. It was a great chance to see guys like Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, Rage Against the Machine's Zack de la Rocha and members of Velvet Revolver fawning over some of their idols.
Vedder got the honor of inducting R.E.M., and even joined the band for a performance of "Man on the Moon" and also joined in the show-closing jam with all honorees. Zack, meanwhile, inducted punk poetess Patti Smith, and the VR guys welcomed Van Halen into the hall and took the stage in the lieu of the band to perform VH's "Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love."
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-13-2007
The No 'Spinster' Zone
Lis Wiehl returns to discuss her book The 51 Percent Minority: How Women Still Are Not Equal and What You Can Do About It. The author worries about having one less woman on the Supreme Court, and talks about some egregious wrongs -- like single women homebuyers being labeled 'spinsters' on real-estate documents in some states.
Meanwhile, host Dirk Van shares some recent emails about gas prices. Jerry in Mitchell, South Dakota, writes in about the high price of petrol and says he walks as much as possible - his workplace is only one mile from his home! On the other end of the spectrum is Judy in Oregon, who says she doesn't have the luxury to not use her car when prices at the pump are outrageous. Her commute to work is some 20 miles, and she lives in an area where there's very little public transportation.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-13-2007
Brad Delp R.I.P.
Friday afternoon, March 9th, Boston singer Brad Delp was found dead in his home at the age of 55. Police immediately ruled out foul play, but said it will be later this week before details of their investigation will be released. Even though he possessed one of the greatest voices in Rock & Roll, Brad was truly one of the nicest, most ego-free people you could ever find. From the first time we met just after the band's debut album was released, Brad was always like a kid in a candy shop - so happy to be singing, living life and meeting fans. In all the years I knew him, there was never an autograph or photo that he refused to do for fans. He was always there to help people in anyway he could. As group leader Tom Scholz said on the Boston web site (http://bandboston.com), "We just lost the nicest guy in rock and roll." The family has asked that memorial donations be made in Delp's memory to the American Heart Association, 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01710. Rest in peace, Bradley.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-12-2007
The Hits Just Keep On Comin'
What's up y'all!
Wow what a great week for Idol! We will soon have the Top 10 finalists for Idol season 6! I don't know about you, but I was shocked last week at how America voted! It just goes to show that Idol still is the most intense and unpredictable show on TV!
On the Hit List, my man Elliot Yamin stopped by to drop off his new single "Waiting for You"! It's definitely hot and you will hear it as my iPod pick of the week coming up! Thanks for now and remember to keep voting and keep blazin the Hit List!
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-12-2007
Minority Report
Host Dirk Van talks to author Lis Wiehl about her book The 51 Percent Minority: How Women Still Are Not Equal and What You Can Do About It. Wiehl reveals that women earn 73 cents for every dollar a man makes, but pay for the predominant amount of childcare, day care, nannies, after-school activities and more.
Wiehl says she undertook this book, in part, because she wanted to be a role model for the young women she taught as a law professor at the University of Washington in Seattle. The author will be back tomorrow for more discussion. Keep your e-mails coming for Dirk!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-08-2007
I Like Mike: Part 2
Host Dirk Van returns with actor Mike Farrell. The M*A*S*H alumnus explains why he'd never want to run for political office; how his TV popularity helped bolster his activism; and why he's not immune to coming down with the Dixie Chicks syndrome.
On the e-mail front, Tammy in Dodge City, Kansas, weighs the benefits of a Maserati convertible and a pricy electric car called the Venturi Festish. Meanwhile, James in Kingston, New York, sheds some light on alcoholism among older people.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-08-2007
Thoughtful Commentary
Great week for guests so far! We've had some thought-provoking commentary from a man who's really close to the Libby trial -- former ambassador Joe Wilson, the husband of outed CIA agent Valerie Plame. We also got some insight into the burgeoning campaign season from Politico.com correspondent Jeanne Cummings.
And don't forget the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson and former FBI operative Eric O'Neill. The former discussed the conditions at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, while the latter talked about everything from being portrayed by Ryan Phillippe in the movie "Breach" to his super-secret spy career.
We'll keep bringing you the best guests in the days to come!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-07-2007
HALL GUNS BLAZING
Some modern-rock acts are set to make an impression at the upcoming Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony March 12 in New York.
That's because Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder will get the honor of inducting R.E.M. into the institution, while Rage Against the Machine's Zack de la Rocha will usher in Patti Smith. And finally, Velvet Revolver Scott Weiland (pictured) and guitarist Slash will do the honors for Van Halen.
Watch the ceremony live on VH1 Classic at 8:30 p.m. ET. And rock on!
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-07-2007
IDOL INSIDER
The latest edition of Randy's Idol Insider features the Dawg talking about an all-star Idol special with former contestants like Tamyra Grey, Ace Young and others singing the entries in the Idol songwriting contest.
Randy also gives a shout Carrie Underwood's new boo British singer Oliver Trevena. So do the Dawg proud and listen up!
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-07-2007
I Like Mike
Host Dirk Van talks to actor Mike Farrell about his new memoir titled Just Call Me Mike. Farrell says he was reluctant to write the tome and describes the experience of committing his life to the printed page. The thespian-cum-author also talks about the legacy of M*A*S*H and more.
Keep those e-mails coming to Dirk! He'll share more of them tomorrow.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-06-2007
Who & Bob Seger concert reviews
Uncle Joe made the concert rounds in Los Angeles last week. First stop on the Unc concert tour - Monday night, February 26th at the Long Beach Arena to see an incredible show from The Who. According to Unc (who took in the show disguised as a roadie), Roger Daltrey's voice was in top form, the new material translated well live, Pete Townshend told some funny jokes, and the amazing light show pulled everything together. J.B. also let it slip that The Who did a good portion of the "Tommy" album as their encore for the night. And if that glowing review has now inspired you to experience The Who for yourself, get the band's itinerary along with ticket sales information at www.TheWhoTour.com.
Next stop on the Unc concert tour of LA - Thursday night, March 1st at the historic Forum for a raucous set from Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. To quote our favorite Uncle, "it was the best Bob Seger show I've ever seen." The sold-out crowd (aged 6 to 60) sang along to every song (new ones included), and at times were louder than the P.A. system. Some set highlights - "Roll Me Away" opening the set, Kid Rock onstage with Mr. Seger to do "Real Mean Bottle," "Travelling Man/Beautiful Loser," and the explosive performances of "Wreck This Heart" and the title track from the new album, "Face The Promise." Bob Seger was all smiles, the band was kickin', and everyone, including your Uncle Joe, had a real good time!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-06-2007
Wonder-ful: Part 2
Host Dirk Van chats again with Kathy Beaumont. Kathy shared her memories of being schooled at the MGM Studio when she was a pre-teen. Her daily schedule included four hours of work, three of school and one for lunch! Even though she was only voicing characters like Alice in Alice in Wonderland and Wendy Darling in Peter Pan, Kathy was routinely filmed as inspiration for the animators.
Meanwhile, Jared in Evans, Ga., writes in to share his thoughts on cars. Keep your e-mail coming to Dirk!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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Mar-05-2007
Wonder-ful!
Host Dirk Van spoke with Kathy Beaumont on Monday. Though you might not know her by name, you know her by voice. She's the woman who voices the character of Alice in Alice in Wonderland and Wendy Darling in Peter Pan.
Find out Kathy's thoughts on the platinum edition DVD of Peter Pan; her rise to fame from London to Hollywood; and what it was like to audition for Walt Disney himself.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-02-2007
Get Wimpy!
Cartoonist Jeff Kinney is on the scene with a new book titled Diary of a Wimpy Kid. As Dirk points out, this is the kind of semi-autobiographical journal/cartoon book that most people can identify with.
Wimpy Kid allows Kinney to get in touch with his inner-child-in this case seventh-grader Greg Heffley, who is the story's main character. "[Greg is] a wimpy kid, but he's comfortable in his own skin. But unfortunately everybody pressures him to change," Kinney tells Dirk.
Meanwhile, we need spring bake suggestions, so send in your favorite cake and other confections recipes.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-02-2007
Everybody Wants Some!
The latest word about Van Halen's upcoming induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is that Velvet Revolver reportedly will perform in the legendary band's place. No word yet if any VH members past or present will take part in the performance.
Velvet Revolver frontman Scott Weiland and guitarist Slash likely will also have the honor of formally inducting VH into the institution on March 12 in New York. The good news for fans across the country is that the ceremony will be televised live for the first time ever this year. VH1 Classic will air the event at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-02-2007
Keeping You in the Loop
What a great week of guests we've just had. We had everyone from interracial power couple William Cohen and Janet Langhart Cohen discussing love and race; David Andelman, executive editor of Forbes.com, talking about the recent volatility in the stock market; and Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill talking about legislation to improve conditions at Walter Reed Army Medical Center that she's co-sponsoring.
For the entertainment-minded listeners among you, we also had veteran sax journeyman Alto Reed talking about his years in the rock & roll business and Jonathan Collegio of the National Association of Broadcasters helping us to get prepared for the upcoming digital TV upgrade.
Something for everyone! Keep it tuned and logged on right here!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-01-2007
KORN IN FLUX
We all know that Korn has decided to reinvent itself with acostic guitars for an upcoming MTV Unplugged album, due March 6. But did you know that the band is now two-fifths brand new?
First came word that founding drummer David Silveria would take a hiatus from the group; veteran stickman Terry Bozzio was announced as his replacement. Now comes the news that Korn has selected former Sevendust/Dark New Day guitarist Clint Lowery as their new axeman on the road. Watch NBC's Tonight Show with Jay Leno tonight to see Lowery make his debut with Jonathan Davis and the boys.
With an infusion of new blood like this in the band, you just know some great things are in store.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Mar-01-2007
IDOL GOSSIP
So what's your opinon of the Antonella Barba X-rated pictures scandal? Well, Simon Cowell recently made his thoughts known. He told People magazine that the photos should "not affect her standing on the show, and if the public wants to keep her in, they'll keep her in ... I think it's disgraceful that so-called friends would sell these pictures. It's private property. I really, really have a problem with that - big problem."
Randy, meanwhile, has steered clear of the controversy. Though he called Barba a "drop-dead gorgeous, beautiful girl" during Wednesday's show, he wasn't really a fan of her version of Celine Dion's ballad "Because You Loved Me." The Dawg is keeping his mind on the music.
Being a little bit edgy is a great quality for an entertainer to have, but Idol hopefuls live or die by their voices. Here's hoping Barba and the rest of the contestants can focus on the music and forget everything else.
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Mar-01-2007
Fitness Forever
Want to shape up before the summer? Try taking some tips form Harley Pasternak, the dietician to the stars. Pasternak's new book, The 5 Factor Diet, lays out an easy plan that doesn't involve portion control. The result? People can lose weight "without feeling like they're in diet prison," the author says. Of course, exercise is a big part of the plan, so get out there and start moving!
Dirk himself says he can't wait to try Pasternak's recipe for tuna sashimi with garlic-scallion vinaigrette! If you're wondering about the famous stars who have benefited from The 5 Factor Diet, look no further than the hot bodies of Halle Berry, Orlando Bloom and Kanye West, among others.
Meanwhile, Dirk recently shared an e-mail from Benji in Kingston, NY, who weighed in on the question of legalizing marijuana. Find out why Benji is high on life!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-27-2007
Gold Fever
Martin Scorsese was the man of the hour at the 79th annual Academy Awards. The veteran director finally nabbed a golden statue when he was named Best Director toward the end of the telecast. But after being snubbed for the honor eight times over the years, Scorsese hardly had a moment to take it all in and reflect; his film The Departed was immediately crowned Best Picture just seconds later!
Meanwhile, other dramatic moments occurred when American Idol reject Jennifer Hudson captured the Oscar in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category for her work in Dreamgirls; and when Alan Arkin (pictured here) surprised everyone by being named Best Supporting Actor for his lewd-and-loveable grandfather role in Little Miss Sunshine.
Finally, kudos to host Ellen Degeneres who fulfilled a lifelong dream of hosting the Oscars. The comedienne used her congenial humor to win over the crowd and put everyone at ease during the big night.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-27-2007
And the Oscar Goes To . . .
Martin Scorsese was the man of the hour at the 79th annual Academy Awards. The veteran director finally nabbed a golden statue when he was named Best Director toward the end of the telecast. But after being snubbed for the honor eight times over the years, Scorsese (pictured here) hardly had a moment to take it all in and reflect; his film The Departed was immediately crowned Best Picture just seconds later!
Meanwhile, other dramatic moments occurred when American Idol reject Jennifer Hudson captured the Oscar in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category for her work in Dreamgirls; and when Alan Arkin surprised everyone by being named Best Supporting Actor for his lewd-and-loveable grandfather role in Little Miss Sunshine.
Finally, kudos to host Ellen Degeneres who fulfilled a lifelong dream of hosting the Oscars. The comedienne used her congenial humor to win over the crowd and put everyone at ease during the big night.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-26-2007
DREAM COME TRUE
Well, it's now official! Jennifer Hudson has captured the Oscar in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category for her work in Dreamgirls.
The burgeoning diva (pictured here with fellow Oscar winner Forest Whitaker) reprised a medley of songs from the film during a live performance -- with a little help from Beyoncé and the other cast members, of course! The win caps an amazing few months for Jennifer. Her other recent victories include snagging a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors' Guild award. Not too bad for a girl who was booted off American Idol!
Ellen DeGeneres, the host of the Academy Awards, didn't miss the comic irony in it all when she said during the telecast: "Jennifer Hudson was on American Idol, America didn't vote for her, and yet she's here with an Oscar nomination . . . Al Gore is here. America did vote for him. It's very complicated."
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Feb-25-2007
STATE OF THE ORDER ADDRESS
Well, we're only two full months into 2007, and it's already been one of the best years in recent memory for Out of Order fans. Here's a recap of what's gone down so far:
First off, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have been ruling the charts for weeks. Their massive hit, "Snow (Hey Oh)," has been rocking us nonstop and even was the Peppers' featured performance at the GRAMMYs.
Meanwhile, Jed has been reeling in some awesome Catches of the Day. 2007 kicked off with one from Scottish rockers The View; we got all Anglo up in this joint with Brit acts like the Kaiser Chiefs and Lily Allen (pictured); and even had Bloc Party as a proxy pick this week from guest host Sluggo! Keep tuning in for the latest and greatest in the alt world!
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Feb-25-2007
DEMOCRACY DEFERRED
Guns N' Roses fans were dealt another blow with the recent announcement that the group's long-delayed Chinese Democracy will be . . . you guessed it . . . delayed longer still.
The disc, which has been in the works for more than 10 years, got its first semi-official release date ever in December. It was then that Axl Rose himself went on record with a street date of March 6. But chalk it up to a little pre-ides of March madness -- the disc is off the books again.
"There is no official release date, as the band is currently mixing, but after some delays and scheduling difficulties, things appear to be moving along," according to a post on the band's official site.
Here's hoping 2007 is the year that GN'R fans finally get to hear what they've been waiting so long for.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-23-2007
And the Oscar Goes To . . .
Oscar season is upon us again. The Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, and the stars are sure to come out for the festivities.
There's a great slate of films that have gotten recognition this year. While serious flicks like Babel, The Departed, Letters From Iwo Jima and The Queen dominate the Best Film category, Oscar voters also gave a nod to the dysfunctional yet loveable comedy Little Miss Sunshine.
Meanwhile, Dreamgirls is also one of the most nominated films this year. In addition to garnering nods in eight categories, the film also launched the career of American Idol flunkie Jennifer Hudson. Take that, Simon Cowell!
Who will win the gold this year? Tune into ABC at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET to find out!
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-21-2007
OSCAR WHO?
Now that the GRAMMYs are over, that doesn't mean that music won't be getting its fair share of recognition in upcoming awards ceremonies. Just take a look at this weekend's Academy Awards, which are set for Feb. 25.
American Idol reject Jennifer Hudson will compete in the Actress in a Supporting Role category for her work in Dreamgirls. Speaking of Dreamgirls, the music-related flick is up for plaudits in a whopping eight categories. That includes three entries in the category for best song!
Will Hudson take home a trophy and do the Dawg proud? Tune into ABC at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET to find out!
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Feb-18-2007
RAGE AGAINST YOUR BANDMATES?
Just several weeks ago we told you about the upcoming Rage Against the Machine reunion set for the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The one-off reunion will pair frontman Zack de la Rocha with his former bandmates, who form the core of Audioslave.
Now on the heels of that good news comes word that Audioslave frontman Chris Cornell has walked away from the group. The dramatic mic man wants to focus on his own music, and has set a May 1 release for his second solo album, Carry On.
Cornell's press statement about the split was curt. "Due to irresolvable personality conflicts as well as musical differences, I am permanently leaving the band Audioslave. I wish the other three members nothing but the best in all of their future endeavors."
Is Cornell just waging a sour grapes campaign against the other members of Audioslave now that de la Rocha is publicly coming back into their lives? Could this be the beginning of a full-fledged RATM reunion? Will Cornell now entertain the possibility of a reunion with his former bandmates in Soundgarden? Many questions, few answers. Stay tuned, Fish heads.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Feb-17-2007
SHEAR GENIUS
The mullet -- it's more than just a hairstyle, it's a lifestyle. So goes the premise of Mullets Rock Too: Mullets in Love, a new 30-track double-disc collection featuring songs by the likes of Eddie Money, Ace Frehley, Cinderella, Night Ranger and others.
The Mullets phenomena began in 2003 with the emphatically titled Mullets Rock! compilation. That inaugural set featured such hirsute hits as Grand Funk Railroad's "We're An American Band," Mountain's "Mississippi Queen" and Twisted Sister's "I Wanna Rock."
But while Mullets Rock! was a free-for-all -- to borrow a title from a Ted Nugent tune featured on the collection -- there were more stringent guidelines in place the second time around. Mullets in Love offers a wide variety of hard-rocking love songs for a "concept compilation album" listening experience.
The 2-CD set touches on all manners of the noble emotion in its title -- from the hellacious (Foghat's "I Just Want To Make Love To You") to the heartwarming (Cheap Trick's "The Flame"). There are detours into synth-laden material (Aldo Nova's "Fantasy") and girl-fronted rock (Joan Jett and the Blackheart's "I Hate Myself for Loving You" and Bonnie Tyler's "Total Eclipse of the Heart") to keep things interesting.
Adam Sandler fans may recognize the J. Geils Band's "Love Stinks" from the comedian's The Wedding Singer flick, while Nazareth turn in a poignant rendition of "Love Hurts." Though the latter song is more commonly associated with the Everly Brothers, the Scottish hard rockers gave it a warm and well-produced treatment in 1975 that foreshadowed the big power ballad production of the '80s.
It's been said that it's much easier to make a heralded entrance than a respectable exit, yet Mullets in Love succeeds admirably well in both instances. The compilation ends on a thought-provoking note with Kansas' "Dust in the Wind." As the somber acoustic strains of the song fade out, Mullets fans are left to ponder the impermanence of all things and that great ol' barbershop in the sky.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-14-2007
GRAMMY GOLD
What a night it was for classic-rock music at the GRAMMYs! The 49th annual ceremony got underway with a performance by the reunited Police, who turned in a pumped-up rendition of "Roxanne." Sting and the boys looked great, no doubt excited about their upcoming full-fledged reunion tour!
Speaking of making a comeback, Bob Dylan was awarded with two trophies for his Modern Times album. The legendary musician took home Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance and Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album plaudits. Dylan's GRAMMY haul was equaled by that of Bruce Springsteen, who won in the Best Traditional Folk Album and Best Long Form Music Video categories.
Meanwhile, other music veterans like Peter Frampton and Steely Dan frontman Donald Fagen also brought home the hardware during the ceremony. With all the great winners, it's pretty clear that great music never goes out of style!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Feb-14-2007
GRAMMY GOLD
Randy Jackson was in full effect at the 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 11 in Los Angeles. He talked to radio stations across the country during a national radio remote in the days leading up to the awards show. Then on the big night, the American Idol judge struck gold when a track he produced -- a version of "Family Affair" featuring John Legend, Joss Stone and Van Hunt -- took home the trophy for Best R&B Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals. The honored cut appeared on a Sly and the Family Stone tribute titled Different Strokes By Different Folks. Way to go, dawg!
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Feb-13-2007
HAIR'S TO YOU: A TRIBUTE TO THE 49TH ANNUAL GRAMMYS
It's hard to believe that the Red Hot Chili Peppers only had one single GRAMMY to their credit going into the 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 11. But that situation was quickly remedied when the Peppers captured four trophies on the big night, including ones for Best Rock Album and Best Rock Song.
Frontman Anthony Kiedis & Co. also took the stage to perform "Snow (Hey Oh)" and brought a blizzard of white confetti with them to simulate the cold stuff from the title of their current hit. Flea was, as usual, the most manic member of the group, flailing around dressed as a soccer goalie. The funky bass player rocked out in front of a huge sheet that was spray-painted with the words "Love to Ornette Coleman" -- a reference to the free jazz musician honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award this year.
Speaking of playing dress up, Gnarls Barkley performed a rendition of their breakthrough hit, "Crazy," while attired as airline pilots. The soul-funk duo took home two GRAMMYs, including one for Best Alternative Album. Other winners included Wolfmother and OK Go, who won Best Hard Rock Performance and Best Short Form Music Video, respectively.
But when all is said and done, one of the most memorable things about the 49th Annual GRAMMYs may have been Imogen Heap's hair (pictured)! The British alt-diva's locks looked like they contained live plants. And her coif got plenty of airtime during the telecast thanks to her prime seating near Carrie Underwood and Mary J. Blige. Heap brought a totally new meaning to going green!
Later Fish-heads.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Feb-13-2007
Once in a Lifetime
Well, the 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards has come and gone. If you didn't get to see the live telecast on Feb. 11, you missed out one of the classiest GRAMMY shows in recent years. The reunited Police did the opening honors, Sting and his bandmates looking great while performing a beefed-up rendition of "Roxanne."
The first award of the night went to two class acts, Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, who won in the Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals category for their stellar rendition of "For Once in My Life." Bennett and Wonder beat out a host of younger acts for the honor, and in doing so demonstrated that great music is timeless.
There were a number of wonderful performances during the GRAMMYs: Christina Aguilera paid tribute to the late James Brown; Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts saluted country-rock music; and newcomer Corrine Bailey Rae joined John Legend and John Mayer for a medley of songs.
And as if to underscore the elegance of the whole show, the legendary Smokey Robinson and Lionel Richie teamed up with new teen star Chris Brown to pay tribute to the history of R&B male vocalists. Three generations, one message: Great music never goes out of style.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-13-2007
Great Music Never Goes Out of Style
Well, the 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards has come and gone. If you didn't get to see the live telecast on Feb. 11, you missed out one of the classiest GRAMMY shows in recent years. The reunited Police did the opening honors, Sting and his bandmates looking great while performing a beefed-up rendition of "Roxanne."
The first award of the night went to two class acts, Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, who won in the Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals category for their stellar rendition of "For Once in My Life." Bennett and Wonder beat out a host of younger acts for the honor, and in doing so demonstrated that great music is timeless.
There were a number of wonderful performances during the GRAMMYs: Christina Aguilera paid tribute to the late James Brown; Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts saluted country-rock music; and newcomer Corrine Bailey Rae joined John Legend and John Mayer for a medley of songs.
And as if to underscore the elegance of the whole show, the legendary Smokey Robinson and Lionel Richie teamed up with new teen star Chris Brown to pay tribute to the history of R&B male vocalists. Three generations, one message: Great music never goes out of style.
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-07-2007
ZEIT ON TIME
Good news for Smashing Pumpkins fans. The reformed grunge-rock band has revealed a title and release date for its upcoming album. Zeitgeist will hit stores July 7 through the Reprise label.
That's kind of a strange day for an album to drop, considering that it's a Saturday -- and industry standard practice is to release new music on Tuesday. But the Pumpkins have always marched to the beat of their own drummer.
The group's revamped lineup -- featuring frontman Billy Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin -- apparently won't feature founding members guitarist James Iha and bassist D'arcy Wretzky. And from the way it sounds, there's no love lost between the baldpated leader and his ex-bandmates. "Billy's making a great record, and for the sake of a younger generation that he wants to turn on to the band's music," the band's manager says, "he is doing it with a band that will more faithfully re-create the old songs than ever before."
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Feb-06-2007
FAB FOUR TO DO THE iPOD SHUFFLE?
Are the Beatles ready to go digital? News arrived Monday that Apple Corps -- the beloved British band's business entity -- and the Apple computer company reached a trademark agreement after years of bitter wrangling over their shared name and similar logos. "We love the Beatles, and it has been painful being at odds with them over these trademarks," Apple CEO Steve Jobs said in a press statement. "It feels great to resolve this in a positive manner, and in a way that should remove the potential of further disagreements in the future."
The historic announcement has led the pundits to speculate that it won't be long before the Beatles are available on iTunes. If that prediction proves true, that would make Led Zeppelin the last prominent classic-rock act that still refuses to make its music available for download. Zep are largely opposed to iTunes because they loathe the idea of breaking up their complete albums into singles for sale.
All of which begs the question: Is it fair to the artistic vision of classic Beatles records like Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band or Revolver to break them up piecemeal for 99 cents a pop? Isn't that like reducing timeless tunes such as "A Day in the Life" or "Eleanor Rigby" to items on a 99-cent value menu?
On the flipside, does going digital offer the Beatles an unparalleled opportunity to "divide and conquer"? -- that is, they can conquer a wider (and younger) audience by dividing their signature albums into individual song downloads.
These questions of art versus commerce are nothing new really. It's just that the stakes have never been so high as they are now for the Beatles and the world of digital music.
So how'd ya like them apples?
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Feb-06-2007
RANDY'S BLUE PERIOD?
Are the judges on American Idol meaner this year? That's the question on everybody's mind these days. So what does Randy Jackson think?
"Simon Cowell has always been Simon Cowell. People talk about the fact it is so much meaner this season. I think they need to go back and watch," he told Today host Meredith Vieira. "I think people have selective memory, [or] they don't know what this show is about."
Meanwhile, the Chief Dawg must have been hittin' his art-history books lately; he even likened American Idol to Picasso during the Today chat! "I think we were an original for what we were doing, and now I see there are a trillion shows out there with three judges," he told Vieira. "I always say, 'Listen, you can never copy the Picasso.' So 'Idol' is ...."
"... sort of the Picasso?" Vieira said, finishing his thought. "I wouldn't say that," Jackson laughed. "It is definitely an original format so far." No doubt about that.
Getting' all Cubist up in your grill,
The Head Hit Lister
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Feb-01-2007
Happy February!
It's the start of brand-new month and what a month it's going to be! February is packed with more entertainment than just about any other competitor on the calendar.
We've got three of the highest-profile events on tap in the coming weeks -- the Super Bowl, the GRAMMYs and the Academy Awards. So whether you enjoy sports, music or the movies, this is the month for you. And let's not forget about Valentine's Day. As the weather gets cold outside, it's great to stay warm with that special someone.
Factor in President's Day and the vibrant Chinese New Year festivities -- Gung Hay Fat Choy! -- and I'm sure you'll agree that February is packed with some great celebrations. (By the way, that's "Have a good and prosperous year" to you non-Sinophiles!)
Posted by First Light Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-01-2007
A Month To Savor
February has to be one of the best months on the calendar. It's packed wall-to-wall with a slate of great events, and you're guaranteed to find something to get excited over in one of them.
We have the Super Bowl, the GRAMMYs and the Academy Awards all within days of each other. So no matter whether sports, music or the movies tickle your fancy, February has got you covered. Plus there's a little something for the romantic in everybody's heart called Valentine's Day. Who doesn't love either giving or receiving chocolates and red roses? And let's not forget about President's Day. It's a time to honor great leaders like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.
Keep your radio tuned in and log on to our website throughout February as we bring you the best this month has to offer! Happy February!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-31-2007
WINC-E UPON A TIME: THE SHINS' FAIRY TALE SUCCESS STORY
What a week it was for the Shins at the register. The latest Billboard 200 standings have been released, and frontman James Mercer & Co. captured the No. 2 spot on the tally after shifting 118,000 copies of Wincing the Night Away.
The sales bonanza isn't just good for Mercer and the boys -- it's also a major coup for Sub Pop Records. This is the band's third album for Sub Pop -- the seminal indie label that helped launch grunge behemoths like Soundgarden and Nirvana -- and it gives the imprint its highest-charting release ever. Meanwhile, Wincing opens at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Independent Albums, Top Digital Albums, Top Internet Albums and Top Tastemakers tallys. Whew!
So now are the Shins ready to take over the modern-rock world? Well, consider the following: "Phantom Limb," the first single off Wincing, is climbing up the Out of Order chart; the band has already had some high-profile appearances on Saturday Night Live and Late Show With David Letterman; and now they have the No. 2 album in the country. You do the math.
Later Fish-heads
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jan-31-2007
MESSAGE UNBOTTLED
The Police are coming. Fans around the world rejoiced with the recent news that Sting, Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers would regroup to perform at the upcoming GRAMMYs. Befitting the band's legendary stature, Sting & Co. will do the opening honors on music's biggest night -- Feb. 11 in Los Angeles.
This is a really sweet deal for fans because we'll all get to tune into CBS' live telecast of the event and check out the performance. The last time the reggae-infused rock group played in front of a (very exclusive) audience was at their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in March 2003.
Still no word about whether this Police get-together will blossom into the full-fledged reunion tour we've all been for. Word has it that the band is rehearsing for an upcoming jaunt in a Vancouver, Canada, studio under the moniker Sting and Friends. Is that name fooling anybody? We don't think so!
In other news, Don Henley, reportedly told a Las Vegas concert audience over the weekend that the long-awaited new Eagles album "[is] coming out in 60 to 90 days, if we don't kill each other first." Henley also went on to hint at the possibility of a summer tour for the act.
If talk of a new Eagles album proves true, it would be the first full-length studio album since the band released 1979's The Long Run. Let's hope Henley & Co. don't pull an Axl Rose and keep us waiting too much longer!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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Jan-30-2007
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Posted by Staff at 10:00 AM
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 Jan-30-2007
YOU GO, GIRL!
Randy has always been a longtime fan of Jennifer Hudson. Even when the zaftig singer got booted off American Idol, he believed in her. Now Hudson's cinematic turn as a member of an aspiring '60s-era girl group in Dreamgirls has turned her into a real star.
When she won best supporting actress honors at the recent Screen Actors Guild awards, Hudson thanked her co-stars, who included Eddie Murphy, Jamie Foxx and Beyoncé Knowles. "Because of you, I was able to work and learn from the best. Yes, you are the best," she said. "Just thank you for noticing little old me and accepting me."
Randy recently spoke to Time magazine about the up-and-coming singer/actress. "I love her. She's the epitome of what [American Idol] is about," he said. "It's about getting your struggle on. She was in the Top 10 [on Idol] and did really well. Now she's a superstar. She found her niche and it found her."
On Tuesday, word came that Hudson had been added as a presenter at the upcoming 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards. So that begs the question: Can it be too much longer before we see Hudson actually nominated for an award herself? Time to launch that overdue recording career, girl!
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-26-2007
ALL THE RAGE
By now you've all heard the news that Rage Against the Machine will reunite to headline this year's Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, set for April 27-29 in Indio, Calif. This historic event will mark the first time the guerrilla rap-rockers perform together since splitting in 2000.
We've all been able to enjoy the new music that Rage's instrumental section -- guitarist Tom Morello, bassist Tim Commerford and drummer Brad Wilk -- has made with singer Chris Cornell in Audioslave. But this one-off reunion will mark a welcome return to the stage for RATM frontman Zack de la Rocha. He's been too quite for too long, and it will be great to see the guys in action again. Now how about a Soundgarden one-off, Chris?
Meanwhile, some of the other great acts set for Coachella include Perry Farrell's Satellite Party, Peeping Tom, Sonic Youth and Arctic Monkeys. What a weekend of rock it's going to be.
Killing in the Name Of,
The Head Fish-Head
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jan-26-2007
COULD THIS BE MAGIC?
By now you've all heard the news that David Lee Roth is expected to participate in a summer comeback tour with Van Halen. They're eyeing a 40-date amphitheater tour that could prove to be more family affair than familiar old times. That's because Michael Anthony is out and will be replaced by Eddie Van Halen's 15-year-old son, Wolfgang, on bass. If the rumors of a Roth reunion prove true, it would mark the first time Diamond Dave has performed publicly with his former bandmates in 20 years.
This could prove to be one hell of a year for Van Halen fans. The band will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 12 in New York. A summer reunion jaunt would just be icing on the cake.
Of course, now the questions: Is Roth washed up? Can Eddie still shred? Is Wolfgang up to the challenge of playing in front of thousands of people? Be sure to tune in March 4 to Off the Record for Joe's conversations with Alex Van Halen, David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Jan-26-2007
IDOL THOUGHTS
Yo... What's up everybody! I know there's a lot of buzz goin' on about this week's auditions in Memphis and New York... especially some of these crazies from New York! If we all seemed kind-of tripped out on some of these contestants, WE WERE! It was definitely a wild time, and it's gonna get crazier next week when we swing "down Souf" as I call it to Birmingham and San Antonio.
And don't forget to turn-on the Hit List this weekend, cause I'm goin' toe-to-toe with my man, Cedric The Entertainer from the movie, "Code Name: The Cleaner" inside Randy's Journal. You know The Dawg got all the hottest music, the biggest stars and, of course, all the Idol dirt, so I'll see you on the radio!
Peace out...
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-26-2007
Moving Forward
The big news of recent days has been, of course, President Bush's State of the Union Address. Most Americans wanted to hear what he had to say about Iraq, but he also addressed issues like immigration, healthcare and the environment.
The Jim Bohannon Show offered wall-to-wall coverage of the Commander in Chief's seventh State of the Union speech. It started with a preview from Llewellyn King and Linda Gasparello, the co-hosts of White House Chronicle, on the morning of the big event. Then in the days following Bush's delivery, we heard from diverse sources like Jack Rafuse, head of the Rafuse Organization; Dr. Merrill Matthews, Resident Scholar at the Institute for Policy Innovation; and former chairman of the Democratic National Committee Terry McAuliffe. All weighed in with their compelling thoughts on the address.
Now comes word that the Senate voted unanimously to confirm the nomination of Army Lt. Gen. David Petraeus to command U.S. troops in Iraq. This is a critical time for our nation, and it's great to see members of both parties coming together -- even as Congress prepares to vote on nonbinding resolutions opposing Bush's call for more troops in Iraq.
We'll keep brining you all the news as it develops, so tune in and log on.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-26-2007
Gone Fish-ing
We heard recently from acclaimed director David Lynch, who told us about his new book Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity. Love that title! But here at First Light we love the message of the book even more. Lynch's tome aims to show us how to make the most of the flickers of inspiration that fill our heads so often, yet expire just as quickly.
"I love ideas and I love catching ideas. That's sort of what this book is about. 'Catching the big fish' is catching ideas at a deeper and deeper level," Lynch told us. "For any artist, really for any human being, it's the way to get those ideas flowing and enjoy the doing -- translating those ideas to a medium."
The poet Allen Ginsberg once said, "First thought, best thought." The Beat-ific master wasn't trying to encourage mental carelessness; he just believed the passion that accompanies the first thought is the essence of creativity. To mull things over endlessly very often lessens our enjoyment of the creative process.
Here's hoping you have a great time catching your big fish. We'll be here to share the journey with you on First Light.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-25-2007
ACE OF BASS
With all that Randy has on his plate -- the Hit List and American Idol, to name just a few things -- it's easy to forget that he's also an in-demand studio producer. The Chief Dawg is always sizing up musicians for use on the records he produces. So he recently told Guitar World's Bass Guitar what he looks for in a studio musician.
"I can call 80 bazillion people that can play the part, but how many are living and breathing the soul of that part?" Randy says in the magazine's March 2007, now on newsstands. "You have to really listen first. Don't pick up your instrument and act like you're in a Guitar Center and play 18 notes a second, or at the NAMM show playing 5,000 notes a minute. This is not about shredder time. It's about listening and reacting to the music in a great, ensemble way."
Seems like Randy wants his studio musicians to dig beneath the surface and find the essence of a song. That's not surprising considering some of the cats that have influenced him. "I got to meet Miles Davis, and I played for him," Randy remembers of the late jazz legend. "When I finished, Miles asked me, 'Now, you played a lotta notes -- but how many of those notes were your actually feeling?' It was deep."
Rock on, Randy!
Posted by Hit List Staff at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-22-2007
BRAND OF GYPSIES?
We've all heard the phrase "genie in a bottle," but "Jimi in a bottle"?! That's right, Jimi Hendrix's likeness is set to grace a new line of beverages. Drink manufacturer Beverage Concepts has purchased the exclusive rights to use the late guitar legend's name and image to shill their Liquid Experience range of drinks, which are coming in April.
Sure, you can buy a tin of tea that comes packaged in late Grateful Dead frontman Jerry Garcia's artwork or a bottle of vino branded with the Rolling Stones' iconic tongue logo for your wine cellar. But a picture of Hendrix on your energy drink? Is that anathema to all that the six-string genius stood for during his tragically short life, or is it just a great way to extend Hendrix's legacy to a new (and hopefully younger) emerging fanbase? Only time will tell.
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Jan-22-2007
First Rate Talent
We all know that reality TV is the latest craze on the boob tube. Couple that with the eco-consciousness in Hollywood, and it was only a matter of time before we got a "green" reality TV show. Living With Ed takes us behind the scenes of actor/activist Ed Begley Jr.'s life, and shows some of the challenges his wife, Rachelle Carson, has on a daily basis while living with one of the silver screen's greenest men. Of course we had Ed and Rachelle on First Light giving you the inside scoop on this exciting new show last week.
Other guests we had a visit from included reformed con man Frank Abagnale. The inspiration behind the flick Catch Me If You Can, Abagnale now doles out advice on how to avoid identity theft! And you heard it right here from one of the (formerly) best in the business.
Finally there was best-selling novelist Richard North Patterson, who told us about his latest novel, Exile. This one is a topical thriller about the Israeli-Palestinian struggle. Great reading if you're looking for a new tome.
Be sure to tune in and log on this week for more great guests!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-22-2007
Talk of the Town
What a time it was on The Jim Bohannon Show last week! We heard from every stripe of political commentator on a variety of issues and some great authors to boot.
Here's a recap of just a few of the highlights:
The NAB's David Rehr discussed the role of the media -- both old and new -- in our modern world.
We heard from author Dick Martin, who has a new book titled Rebuilding Brand America: What We Must Do to Restore Our Reputation And Safeguard the Future of American Business Abroad that goes to the heart of our international PR crisis.
And then there was Dinesh D'Souza, author of The Enemy at Home, who shared his thoughts on the negative impact the cultural left, political liberals, and Hollywood is having on perception of America.
Thought-provoking discussions abounded with our listeners. Let's do it again this week.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-19-2007
SMELLS LIKE . . . POPCORN!
As we get into GRAMMY and Oscar season, it's great to see the two worlds of music and movies coming together in meaningful ways.
The modern-rock world has been buzzing over the still-in-the-planning Kurt Cobain biopic. Now that Courtney Love has bought the rights to Heavier Than Heaven, a biography of the late Nirvana frontman, it's only a matter of time until a movie treatment hits the silver screen. Love is no stranger to celluloid herself, having starred in The People Vs. Larry Flynt, among other flicks. She promises the forthcoming Cobain biopic will be an "A-list and high-end film."
Meanwhile, a couple of young acts are also doing their bit to help alt rock get into a theater near you. The Killers have recorded a version of the Joy Division song "Shadowplay" for the soundtrack to the upcoming film Control. Due in September, Control will tell the life story of another late modern-rock icon: Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis.
And finally, there's Death Cab for Cutie leader Ben Gibbard, who is set to pop his big-screen cherry in an upcoming adaptation of the David Foster Wallace novel Brief Interviews With Hideous Men. Look for The Office's John Krasinski to helm that production, due later this year.
So get ready to bust out the popcorn. We're taking over the theater!
Later Fish-heads.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jan-18-2007
IT'S ON!!!
Yo... I know y'all caught Idol's Season 6 premiere this week! We scored a record-breaking 37 million viewers our first night, so thanks for bringin' us into your home and keeping Idol Number 1!
The Minneapolis and Seattle auditions were CRAZY! I thought with homeboys like Prince and Kurt Cobain they would give us tons of talented contestants, but now you know the deal! I will say - as I've said on The Hit List - that you should watch the ones with curly hair, so keep that in mind as we head next week to Memphis and New York.
And let me give a quick shout out to my girl, Jennifer Hudson on her Golden Globe win for Best Supporting Actress for "Dreamgirls." I always knew this girl had it goin' on, and she's definitely doin' it proud for Idols everywhere!
Headin' back into the studio with Travis Tritt, so I'll catch y'all later...
Peace out!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-16-2007
GRAMMY MAGICK IN THE MAKING?
With GRAMMY fever in full swing, it's nice to know that the alt rock movement will get some strong representation at Music's Biggest Night.
Red Hot Chili Peppers and Gnarls Barkley are among the first artists who have been announced as performers at the 49th annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 11. Both acts are poised for an amazing year at the GRAMMYS. The Peppers are up for a whopping six trophies, while Gnarls' breakout year earned them four nods.
And if that's not enough, tracks by RHCP, GB, Death Cab for Cutie, Keane and others appear will appear on the Grammy Nominees 2007 compilation disc. That's in stores Jan. 23. Until then, if you want complete radio coverage of the GRAMMYS, click on over to GRAMMYRadio.com.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Jan-16-2007
HAGAR CAN'T DRIVE 55
Uncle Joe's love of rock & roll music is well known. So is his passion for auto racing. Well, now there's a new kid on the block with deep roots in the rock world ready to get his motor running: Sammy Hagar.
The Red Rocker has signed on as the new co-owner of Team KMA Racing. "I'm very excited about our entering the Indy Pro Series," Hagar recently told All Headline News. "The fans of Indy Racing are enthusiastic, and it's a tremendous venue to compete in. I've been a car fanatic for as long as I can remember, and I'm really looking forward to being a part of Indy Racing."
Expect Sammy's Cabo Wabo Tequila brand to be associated with the team throughout the Indy Pro Series season. But don't expect him to drive 55!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Jan-16-2007
Back in the Swing of Things
What a week we just had here at First Light! We heard from astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, host of Nova scienceNow and author of Death by Blackhole. He told us about all the ways the universe is conspiring to kill us! What a hoot!
We also heard from veteran reporter Andrea Mitchell, who told us about her memoir Talking Back. In the tome, she tells readers what it's like to interview heads of state, dictators and the common man. Fascinating reading!
We also had Dirk taking your calls on stem-cell research, a topic that's been on a lot of your minds since Congress agreed to expand funding for it. Will the president exercise his veto to quash funding yet again? Probably so. And we'll keep talking with you about it as all the developments take place.
Happy listening!
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-16-2007
All Over the Dial
There have been some great guests on Jim's recent programs. Whether your interest lies in money, health, education or politics (maybe all of the above?!), it's a safe bet that Bohannon has had a guest that talks your language in the past couple of weeks.
We heard from author Gail Pressburg talking about the politics behind stem cell research; former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee detailing his amazing weight loss and vision for our nation; author Douglas MacKinnon weaving his tale of a fictional coup d'etat at home; and satirist P. J. O'Rourke discussing Adam Smith's economic theories.
And the best part of all? There are more great guest on tap! Tune in as Jim talks about what you want to hear.
Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM
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 Jan-10-2007
The People Have Spoken!
Yo! I want to send a personal shout out to everybody who voted, cause Idol put it down at the People's Choice Awards! You made Idol your Favorite Reality/Competition Show two years in a row, and I know you saw The Dawg out there representin' for my crew Simon, Paula and Ryan to accept the award. It was a great night workin' the red carpet with my lovely wife, and picking up another trophy for Idol. Get ready for another AMAZING season starting Tuesday, January 16!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-04-2007
It's a Dawg's Life
Yo... Happy New Year everybody!
Hope y'all out there are having a happy, healthy 2007! Me and the fam ended up staying kind of close to home for the holidays since The Dawg had to hit Vegas for some serious studio time with my girl, Mariah. We're working on an upcoming live DVD, so more details on that later...
Now I'm back in L.A. working on Travis Tritt's album, gearing up for the premiere of Idol Season 6 on January 16th & 17th, and of course, countin' down the biggest hits in the country on the Hit List. Keep tunin' in cause we got a lot of good stuff comin' down in '07. That's it for now... peace out!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Jan-03-2007
FROM HERE TO INFINITY: A PREVIEW OF 2007
So much good music is on tap for 2007. No matter what your taste in modern rock, you're sure to find something to your liking in the coming year.
Hoping for more of that pop-punk greasy kids' stuff? Fall Out Boy are readying Infinity on High for release next month.
Want to get your arena-rock groove on? Both Velvet Revolver and U2 have new efforts in the works; VR's Libertad is due in May (eat your heart out, Axl Rose!), while U2 are eyeing a late '07 release for their next one.
Looking for your hard-rock fix? Metallica are selecting tracks for their much-anticipated follow-up to St. Anger.
Then there's the Smashing Pumpkins long-awaited comeback and a new Radiohead disc, just to name a few more. And let's not forget about Linkin Park, who like Metallica are working with career-saving producer Rick Rubin for their next disc. Be sure to vote in our poll to let us know which album you're most looking forward to in the big double-0 7. Keep your ears open and your radio on . . .
Later Fish-heads!
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Dec-29-2006
ATLANTIC CITY BY WAY OF THE NORTH POLE:
A TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA LIVE REVIEW
America's Playground in the East was painted red and green Dec. 28 when the Trans-Siberian Orchestra decked the halls in Atlantic City. Though the symphonic-rock collective has been touring annually every holiday season since 1999, the Boardwalk Hall concert marked TSO's debut A.C. engagement.
Featuring a group of tuxedo-clad rock musicians backed by an eight-piece orchestra, TSO wowed the crowd with their rearrangements of holiday standards and well-known classical pieces, plus original seasonal compositions and a laser-light show. Originals like "An Angel Came Down" and "This Christmas Day" boasted a distinct Broadway feel with booming, dramatic vocals buoyed by crunchy and melodic arena-rock riffs. Think the Great White Way meets the Sunset Strip in the North Pole and you're there.
TSO dedicated nearly two hours to a track-by-track enactment of their multiplatinum 1996 debut, Christmas Eve & Other Stories, using a baritone-voiced narrator between songs to detail the album's tale of an angel seeking the true meaning of the holiday spirit on Earth.
One of the set's many highlights was "Christmas Eve Sarajevo 12/24," a hit single that's nearly ubiquitous on radio at this time of year. The tune blended holiday favorites like "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Carol of the Bells" with blazing fretwork courtesy of guitarists Chris Caffery and Alex Skolnick -- themselves members of '80s metal bands like Savatage and Testament, respectively.
After a short intermission, the group returned to the stage and cut loose for another hour of jamming that combined edgy rock guitar playing with the classical flair of composers like Beethoven and Mozart.
By the end of the evening, however, exactly what constituted yuletide music was open to debate; a rendition of Carl Orff's brooding "O Fortuna" from the band's forthcoming Night Castle album was neither holly nor jolly. But the concert's final selection -- a full-cast reprise of "Christmas Eve Sarajevo 12/24" that was laden with pyrotechnic blasts -- brought TSO right back into the holiday spirit. In the end, the far-reaching blend of classical and rock music ensured that concertgoers would find something for everyone on their Christmas "Liszt."
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Dec-28-2006
James Brown R.I.P.
Wwwaaaow! I Feel Good -- I Knew That I Would!
He was Mr. Dynamite
I Feel Nice -- Like Sugar N' Spice!
Mr. Please Please Please
So Good . . . So Nice . . . 'Cause I Got You. Wwwaaaow!
He was the Godfather of Soul -- the incomparable James Brown -- and there will never be another like him. We all lost a hero when the 73-year-old icon died. Whether you were black or white, male or female, cat or dawg, you've been touched by the music of James Brown. His enduring hits included "I Got You (I Feel Good)," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," "It's a Man's Man's Man's World" and "Living in America," among others.
Brown was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. And though his personal life may have been riotous - he received a lengthy prison sentence after leading police on an interstate car chase in late 1988 (touché O.J. Simpson!) - it never overshadowed his musical legacy.
By 1992, the Recording Academy recognized him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Here at the Hit List, we want to give a shout out to the Hardest-Working Man in Show Business. Though your work here is now done, your memory will never be forgotten.
James Brown
May 3, 1933-December 25, 2006
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:00 AM
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 Dec-26-2006
We got this e-mail from the folks we support over at the Good Knight Child Empowerment Network. We suggest you vote early and often!
Sophia West was a finalist in the Volvo for life Awards for 2005. She has been selected as a finalist running against other finalists of past years for 2006 in the America's Hometown Hero Award. It is run similarly to American Idol in that the American public will vote for the nine finalist and then will ultimately pick the one who gets the car. I ask that you click on [this] link and vote once a day everyday until February 4th, 2007, for Sophia. The nominee with the most votes will win. If you have a home computer and a work computer you can vote at each of them. We believe votes are counted by IP addresses (computer's ID) instead of email addresses. Also if you can send this message to your friends, family and co-workers and have them vote for Sophia and continue to pass it on it would help us raise needed awareness and funds to support the free giveaway of our lifesaving abduction prevention program for children. ... Thank you for your continued support.
Posted by Good Knight Child Empowerment Network at 12:00 AM
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Dec-25-2006
Lookee here! It happened again!
Not quite sure whom to thank, but thanks to whomever chose Allan Prell to guest host. I was a big fan when his run on KIRO 710 AM in Seattle came to a very premature end. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing him.
Posted by Scott from Washington State at 11:00 PM
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Dec-25-2006
Lookee here! It happened again!
Who is this guy you have sitting in for Jim? This left-wing nut sounds awful on the radio and makes mistakes on the air! Then he goes on to say that he will wear a majorette uniform?! What is this, a comedy show?!
Posted by Gessen, also from Washington State at 10:00 PM
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Dec-25-2006
Paul the producer sez
We have more proof the American hearing aid industry may need a boost. Read the following from "ndlover2002" and understand Jim never said this! (By the way, "ndlover2002"...do you eat with that mouth? Sheesh!):
I'm sick of your Liberal s**t on the show tonight, that's a bunch of BS! Rush Limbaugh and all the conservaties are NOT liars!! How dare you say that!! Screw your piece of s**t show!! They have way more listeners than sucky Jim does! You're just jealous that you can't compete half as good as they do. Bill O'Reilly kicks your a$$ as well. I'm not wasting one minute anymore with your garbage. I'm telling all my conservative friends to do the same, I have a lot too. Welcome to Garbage Talk - you all suck a$$!!
Posted by Paul the producer at 9:00 PM
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 Dec-25-2006
Paul the producer sez
I got to spend time with my in-laws over this Winter at their home in Pine Glen, PA (don't bother looking for it on the map unless you own an electron microscope--it's that small!). This is my wife, Debby. (This is not me.)
Posted by Paul the producer at 8:00 PM
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Dec-25-2006
Point
I tuned in the last 2 nights to find guest host Leslie Marshall. I have to say that she seems so one-sided (to the left) in her guest interviews that I didn't make it through either show. Mr. Bohannon's ability to ask piercing questions of his guests and callers while remaining impartial is refreshing. Hope he returns soon!
Posted by Laurie from Gainesville, GA at 7:00 PM
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Dec-25-2006
Counterpoint
Leslie Marshall was a most thought-provoking, yet polite, substitute for Jim - I hope you will be having her on again. Thanks!
Posted by Susan from Columbia, MO at 6:00 PM
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Dec-25-2006
Norma from (we think) IA, sez
hey jimbo i listen to you and i looked at your picture you look more like danny bonneduche from the tv show the partrige family not harrison ford or brad pitt in my opinion look at his picture and you will see what i mean ok just thought you would like to know from one of your listeners you are still a good looking guy though
Posted by Norma from (we think) IA at 10:00 AM
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Dec-25-2006
Jerry R. from Sauk Rapids, MN sez
(regarding the appearance of guest Tom Leykis:) Please create a hate mail section for your website like this pig your interviewing has and let this be on the top of the list. Thanks for letting me down!
Posted by Jerry R. from Sauk Rapids, MN at 10:00 AM
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Dec-25-2006
Paul the producer sez
It's beginning to appear that we're taking the "Player of the Week" concept just a little too far! (This shot was taken in the alley behind our own studios!)
Posted by Paul the producer at 10:00 AM
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 Dec-25-2006
Jim the host sez
Poems that don't rhyme.
Seventeen syllables--why?
What's haiku to you?
Posted by Jim the host at 10:00 AM
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Dec-25-2006
Paul the producer sez
Hey, Kansas City-ites: When you call in to the show, why are you so surprised that I would ask you if you're in Kansas City, Missouri, or Kansas City, Kansas? Is there some sort of blood feud about this that I'm not aware of?
Posted by Paul the producer at 10:00 AM
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 Dec-25-2006
2006 Holiday Season in Review
While most people slow down during the holiday season, we here at First Light have been moving full speed ahead. It was a time full of great guests, great conversation and even greater listeners.
We brought you stimulating chats with Sopranos actor Steve Schirripa, who discussed the latest installment in his children's book series, Nicky Deuce; author Neil Gabler, who discussed his new text, Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination; and author Brad Snyder, whose latest book, A Well-Paid Slave, looked at the struggle for free-agency in modern sports. Be sure to vote in our poll and tell us about your favorite guest.
We also acknowledged the season with a fun Name That Christmas Carol Singer segment and a show during which we took your calls on New Year's resolutions.
As we look forward to the new year, our best wishes for a speedy recovery go out to another recent guest -- Terri Garr. The actress and author is on the mend after undergoing surgery to treat a brain aneurysm. Keep her in your thoughts. And be on the lookout for more great guests in 2007.
Posted by Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Dec-25-2006
Jim the host sez
This is one of my very favorite intersections in my hometown of Lebanon, MO: the bustling corner of Fremont and No Dumping!
Posted by Jim the host at 5:00 AM
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 Dec-21-2006
CHRISTMAS WITH UNCLE JOE
The flagship station of over 100 affiliates, 95.5 KLOS, will air the annual Uncle Joe's Rockin' Christmas Show at 5 p.m. Christmas Eve and 10 a.m. Christmas Day. Three hours of your favorite classic rock & roll Christmas songs and rare nuggets -- tunes from John Lennon, Boston, Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, the Eagles, U2, Camp Freddy, The Black Crowes and Stevie Nicks, among many others. Check out this year's playlist and list of affiliates!
This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, Off the Record with Joe Benson will feature a special Christmas show with holiday music and interviews with, among others, John Lennon, Band Aid and Sir Bob Geldof, Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Moody Blues and Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon.
A Holiday Note
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo
Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année!
Feliz Navidad y Próspero Ańo Nuevo
Weihnachten und ein glückliches Neues Jahr!
Shinnen omedeto. Kurisumasu Omedeto
And a Happy Festivus for the rest of us!
Unc, Doc & the Elves!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Dec-20-2006
STADIUM ROCK: 2006 IN REVIEW
What a year it was in modern rock. Whether you're talking about the unexpected success of Gnarls Barkley; White Stripes frontman Jack White branching out with the Raconteurs; or Three Days Grace singer Adam Gontier surviving drug addiction and writing a hit song about the experience, 2006 was not short on surprises.
And how about them Peppers? After more than 20 years as a band, Anthony Kiedis & Co. finally captured pole position on the Billboard 200 chart with their double-disc delight, Stadium Arcadium.
But just as '06 goes down, the new year is heating up. Already Out of Order has previewed music by artists like British darling Lily Allen and Scottish gloom merchants the Cinematics during the Foreign Exchange portion of the show. Both acts have albums set to drop in the new year. So here's to more great sounds to come in '07.
Posted by Out of Order Staff at 8:30 AM
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 Dec-20-2006
GRATEFUL FOR THE GRAMMYS
Music fans should be happy to know that the Doors and the Grateful Dead are among the artists who will be honored with the 2007 Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Awards. The Academy just made the announcement yesterday.
Of course it's no surprise to my listeners that Jim Morrison and the boys made some of the greatest rock of the '60s or that the Dead laid the groundwork for all the jam bands that are so popular right now.
The surviving members of both groups will be recognized at a private fete in early February and during the 49th annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 11 in Los Angeles. Recording Academy president Neil Portnow said in a statement that, "[The honorees'] contributions exemplify the highest artistic and technical standards that have positively affected the music industry and music fans." But around here we just like artists such as the Doors and the Dead because they plain rock!
Posted by Off the Record Staff at 8:00 AM
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 Dec-19-2006
Yule Hear It First
Yo . . . what's up everybody? Just got back from hangin' in San Diego with my family. We're gearin' up for the holidays, laying in a heavy supply of sunscreen before we head off together for some serious chill-out time at the beach. It's about to get seriously crazy with Idol Season 6 starting January 16th, so this is The Dawg's last shot at some "me time" for a minute!
Be sure to listen Christmas Eve weekend -- we've got a very cool show lined up with some of the greatest holiday music EVER! And New Year's weekend? Yo, it's on, man! We're taking a look back at 2006, counting down all the biggest hits of the year, so you know there's gonna be a few surprises! It's ALL good, so spend your holidays with The Dawg!
I'll check back with you real soon . . . Peace, out!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 12:00 AM
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 Dec-05-2006
Celebratin' the Season
YO...YO... YO...
Happy holidays everybody!
Man... it's been crazy lately! Just got back from spending the Thanksgiving holiday in New York City. One of my friends got married, so I flew the fam out there to attend the wedding, hang out in the city and, of course, to get our "shop on" as they say.
You'll never guess who I ran into at the hotel -- Beyonce! She had a car full of presents for Jay-Z and all her family. We kicked it for a minute by the car, then she headed back to her suite to hang with Jay. That was a definite highlight of the trip, especially for my son!
My studio is crazy busy right now with my artist, Van Hunt recording his third album. Plus, I start producing Travis Tritt's new album this week, so it's on!
Between gearing up for Idol Season 6, all these recording projects and tons of other stuff I got goin', I'm still gonna sneak away to an "undisclosed location" with my family for Christmas. You know we're keepin' the Hit List real all throughout the holidays, so stay tuned!
Over and out for now...
Peace!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 12:00 AM
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 Oct-15-2006
Feels great to be back home!
Our audition tour for American Idol is over, so now I'm back doin my thing as always in LA. Last week we had a bunch of meetings! I got to meet with some new young up and coming artists. I got a chance to meet with some writers and producers for some possible television shows for my new production company... got settled into our new office. So now I'm all over LA in 2 offices, 3 studios, and a warehouse of musical equipment!
We bumped into a few friends at one of my studios. Avril Lavigne was working with our friend, Producer Dr. Luke. They were in the studio with a 40 piece string section, headed by our friend Suzie Katayama. I got to hang out with them for a bit, it sounds great! Avril has got real talent!!
We also got to sit in with our good friends Producer John Shanks, and Jon bon Jovi while they worked in the studio together. The three of us have been friends for a long while now. They sounded amazing, as always!
Van Hunt, an artist I manage was in the studio producing a song for John Legend. Nikka Costa, another artist I manage is now the proud mother of a baby girl named Sugar.
On top of the dozens of meetings, I'm also getting ready for American Idol's "Hollywood Week" November 14th through the 18th in LA. I'm preparing to produce Travis Tritts album, which I'll start working on this winter.
My week was filled with meetings and business and getting back into the swing of things. Luckily on the weekend, I got to hang out with my growing kids and my beautiful wife!... and that's what its all about!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 12:00 AM
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 Sep-07-2006
KATIE! KATIE! KATIE!
Talk about promotion. Compared to Katie Couric's CBS debut, the Superbowl is a minor event.
But the hype is not at all inappropriate. What we are seeing is an attempt by a major teleivision network to revive a once monumental and now dying species: the evening news. As much as the attention is understandably focused on the star of the show - Katie! - it is the survival of the show itself which is the real, and significant, story.
When I was growing up (an obviously incomplete process), it was a matter of religious commitment that the family watched one of the network TV evening news broadcasts. Everybody did. And everybody continued to watch and get their news of the day, news of the world, from that evening TV news.
No longer. Now there is talk radio, the internet, blogs, etc.
Is there anyone who follows news who doesn't already know the news by 6:30 p.m.? And who - other than the unemployed and shut-ins (neither of whom interests advertisers) is home at 6:30 p.m.?
This explains why the average age of the network news audience hovers around 105 (well, that's a bit of an exageration, but you get my point.) Every night at 6:30, 5% of the previous evening's audience has passed away.
Either the network finds a way to attract a new (read: younger) audience, or it will also pass away.
Enter Katie - but also enter bright, swooshing graphics and sound effects and special short features (like Rush Limbaugh having his say), and Katie's legs. The new CBS Evening News Broadcast has essentially the same news content as the competition, but it has a lot more sex appeal - figuratively and literally.
"How is Katie doing?" is the universal - and entirely wrong - question the crticis have been asking in the first few days of the enterprise. How Katie is doing compared to other anhors (and she is, in that respect, doing fine) is not the issue. She can, by conventional and historical standards, turn out be the greatest network anchor ever. And the CBS Evening News will die.
Because the crucial question isn't "How is Katie doing (compared to whom)?" but, rather, "How is Katie doing compared to what - as in compared to what the other network news broadcasts look like, sound like - and to whom they appeal.
And this is where all the convention wisdom mongers are missing the point. The success or failure of this experiment will not turn on whether Katie proves to be a competent or even superior news anchor (she is); the acid test will be the profile of the viewers she attracts or fails to.
To survive and thrive, the CBS Evening News needs to overhaul their product almost entirely - but still hold the older, traditional audience it has while siimultaneously grabbing 28 and 35 and 43 year olds, and hanging onto them. Not easy.
But were I charged with the task of doing this, I would have chosen Katie Couric. In terms of the right talents and chemistry for this trick, she is perfect.
Inasmuch as this sounds like a love letter to Katie Couric, I should note that I disdain her transparently left-wing world view, and the fact that it has for many years been discernable to viewers. I imagine this could be a perhaps fatal flaw in her new role (after all, there is a hint in the fact that conservative Rush Limbaugh's apppearance Thursday evening will likely attract more viewers than any other single broadcast Katie will ever do).
And, I suppose, it is also fair to note that, despite the deep political abyss between us, I find Katie enormously attractive, greatly charming, and very sexy. (That segment in which she gets out from behind the desk and shows her legs - keep it in the act, kid.)
Is it possible to revive the network evening news to its former status? Maybe.
If you're going to try, is there a better choice for anchor than Katie Couric? No.
I love the network news, always have; watch it every night. I take it seriuosly. But you can bet given the choice between getting it from another dude or a Babe, count me in, CBS.
Posted by Jay Severin at 10:00 AM
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Aug-30-2006
Yo Yo Yo!
What up dawgs! Randy Jackson here writing my first official blog. This has been a crazy summer, between doing the Top 30 every week, staying on top of all the latest Idol news and getting my site launched, it's been so busy. Take a minute to look around, listen to highlights from past shows, and check out the countdown. If you have a question that you've always wanted to ask me, now is your chance - shoot me an email at the address above and I'll try my best to get back to you. I gotta get back into the studio but check back soon. I will be posting a new blog every week!
Posted by Randy Jackson at 1:01 AM
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 Aug-24-2006
Words of Wisdom
Every year, Beloit College in Beloit, WI, comes out with its mindset list for incoming freshmen. It's a huge perspective-builder, and the class of 2010 is no exception. By the way, that is twenty-ten. Enough of this "two thousand" nonsense-1810, 1910, 2010. 'Nuff said. For the most part, the class of 2010 was born in 1988, and for them, the following is true: the Soviet Union has never existed, and therefore, is about as scary as the student union. There has always been only one Germany. They have known only two presidents. The rest, from George H.W. Bush back to George Washington, are all part of the same dusty pages of history. The class of 2010 has never had anyone actually "ring it up" on a cash register, and the phrase sounds distinctly quaint to them. Madden has always been a game.and a fat old guy on TV, not a Super Bowl-winning coach. They never saw Bernard Shaw on CNN. Contact lenses have always been disposable. Smoking has always been banned on U.S. airlines, which have never served food, and have always been bankrupt. They rarely have occasion to place a stamp on an envelope. For the class of 2010, no one has ever shot a skyhook in the NBA. There have never been two teams in St. Louis called the Cardinals. While rummaging in their grandparents attics, they've sometimes come across some messy black sheets called...carbon paper. (They're only vaguely aware of what this is for.) There have always been organ transplants and DNA evidence. The most trusted man in America isn't Walter Cronkite...but Mr. Rogers. Ringo Starr is an older former musician who has always been clean and sober. And for the class of 2010, Billy Martin, Billy Carter, Gilda Radner, Andy Gibb, Lucille Ball, and Secretariat...have always been dead.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Jul-12-2006
OUR WAR MEDIA
It would be nice if the people who work at the New York Times and Washington Post and Time Magazine and ABC News, et. al. were patriotic. It wouldn't hurt anybody if they actually loved America and, when we are at war, rooted for our side. But, to be fair, it isn't journalism's job to be a cheer leader, even for their own country, even in wartime.
But to publish information that helps defeat America; to make more difficult the prevention of terrorism, the capture of terrorists, the protection of American lives - that isn't freedom of the press; that is sedition. That is treason.
And it is time the President of the United States does something to stop it. Something like directing the Dept of Justice to prepare criminal indictments against reporters who tell our secrets - because telling our secrets is a crime. And telling our secrets may well result in the murder of Amercian women and children and men. And, thus, it is time to slap some leg irons - after a fair trial, of course - on some editors and reporters from the newspaper(s) of record, who care far more about villifying a wartime President than whether we win the war.
The first amendment is not a suicide pact. Mr. President, do your duty, dude: Prosecute, imprison - and, Yes - if appropriate execute the traitors. Now!
Posted by Jay Severin at 1:13 PM
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 Apr-06-2006
Words of Wisdom
The cellular telephone and internet association trade show is underway at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the very latest that can be stuffed into a cell phone is on display, from pictures to videos, iPods to computers, to the ability to launch the Space Shuttle, perform minor surgery, and download an entire, edible pizza. Yes, cell phones can certainly do a lot these days, but we may not have tapped into their most important uses. I note a couple of items in the news: A grand jury is about to hear testimony against Georgia Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney, and there are calls for her resignation after she allegedly, reportedly walked right past a Capitol Hill security checkpoint without her I.D. button...and...when stopped by a police officer, allegedly, reportedly hit him in the chest-with a cell phone. Also in the news, word that a maid has gotten a lawyer after her supermodel boss, Naomi Campbell (not to be confused with Cynthia McKinney, that's for sure), allegedly, reportedly threw a cell phone at the maid. Well now-who knew what a handy weapon cell phones could be? Whether you have the black belt model-allegedly, reportedly wielded by McKinney-or the throwing star cell phone, allegedly, reportedly used by Campbell, here's a brand new use: if you have one of those small as a credit card cell phones, my guess is it's more suited for throwing than punching-especially if you sharpen the edge. Of course, actor Russell Crowe uses the 'Sudden Impact' model on hotel clerks, throwing an entire, corded telephone. But whatever cell phone weapon you choose, remember the mottoes of the National Cell Phone Association: the N.C.A. says when cell phones are outlawed, only outlaws will have cell phones...or...you can have my cell phone when you pry it from my cold dead...ear.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Oct-12-2005
Words of Wisdom
We have so many problems in this country, but sometimes we also have easy solutions. Case in point: those gas prices, and the historic grain surpluses which have depressed farm incomes. This one is easy: use more gasohol and biodiesel fuels, and begin to tackle both problems. Now, consider our porous southern border, and the unfortunate corruption which plagues the Mexican government. This easy solution I got from singer, novelist, and independent candidate for Governor of Texas, Kinky Friedman: "The Five Mexican Generals Plan": Place one million dollars in trust for each of five Mexican generals, who would each be assigned portions of the Mexican border with the U.S. Then, every time we catch an illegal who crossed in from his sector, we'd remove $5,000 from that general's trust fund. Watch how fast border security tightens-and from their side! Here are more problems with easy solutions: We are plagued with an epidemic of critters in this country...deer, for openers, which cause an estimated 1.5 million traffic accidents each year, and kill 200 people. But we also have far too many geese and pigeons littering lawns and sidewalks, making their #2s a #1 problem in many areas. Solution: kill off those vermin...and feed the hungry! Throw in some road kill as well, and maybe we'll have enough left over to drop the cost of school lunches. Two problems, one solution. And while we're on that theme, consider how many problems President Bush could have saved himself, if only he'd filled the Sandra Day O'Connor Supreme Court vacancy with...Tom DeLay! Conservatives would have loved the choice, Tom's troubles would no longer be cluttering up the House, and as a bonus, Justice DeLay might ultimately get to rule on his own guilt or innocence!
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Aug-23-2005
Words of Wisdom
I'm a night person...roughly a 9-to-5'er, but PM to AM...doing the Jim Bohannon Show in the evening to start my day, and getting done after the final feed of my newsmagazine, America in the Morning. From that perspective, I've learned that night people face discrimination. Oh yes we do! Think of that staff meeting at 3:00 pm, for which we either have to wake up for a conference call, or, worse yet, drag our groggy selves into work. Next time, how about they call the staff meeting at 3:00 am, when WE'RE bright-eyed and bushy-tailed? When we're going to work, construction crews are always out blocking the road, as if the only people driving at night must have a frivolous reason for being out. Our friends are always throwing parties at some obscene time like--Saturday afternoon, so we can provide entertainment for them as we crash, nose-first, into the cheese dip. I could go on, but only my fellow nocturnal types are awake enough to lucidly comprehend. So, while you day types grope for the alarm, I'll let you in on a little secret: When I talked about this on the Jim Bohannon Show not long ago, my fellow abused night people joined me in deciding that there's only one way to get some respect in this country: become hyphenated Americans. And so, we're no longer night people. We're Nocturnal-Americans -- angry, outraged Nocturnal-Americans, and we're not gonna take it anymore! Don't roll over and go back to sleep now! We Nocturnal-Americans are talking to you!
We're nocturnal, hear us roar, in numbers too big to ignore,
as we sleep away the day and work the night!
We're nocturnal, and no more will we just sit back and snore,
as we're forced to sometimes function in the light!
Now, if only somebody will show up at our 4:00 am protest rally.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Apr-22-2005
Words of Wisdom
I was in a new store recently and handed the clerk my credit card, only to have him point to this little box in front of me and say "YOU swipe the card." Which, of course, I did, realizing that I've seen this before. A lot. That is, companies which refuse to offer PEOPLE to help you SPEND YOUR MONEY THERE. The most irritating example for me is-surprise--the airlines, where, more and more, they allow YOU to type your way through the issuance of your own ticket. There are clerks standing right there, but they push you to do it yourself, even if you wish an exit row, or want to buy an upgrade, or whatever else their brain-dead little machine won't handle. And it won't be long until the clerks are totally gone, for--and get this--YOUR CONVENIENCE! No, lowlifes, my convenience is to have your clerk worry about this! This is not for my convenience, it's for your cheapness. And, of course, the ABSOLUTE WORST are these voice recognition phone devices, which can't recognize anything. The Information Operator now can't dispense ANY information, because they can't understand my diction. Oh, really? I do diction for a living! So, I curse at this mechanical slut 'til the live human operator--WHO WAS THERE THE WHOLE TIME--finally comes on. We lose millions of man-hours a year to this stupidity, and for you company executives out there, I'm going to tell you how to make some money. Advertise like this: "Buy YOUR widgets at BOHANNON WIDGETS, WHERE A LIVE HUMAN BEING ANSWERS ALL YOUR QUESTIONS! Yes, at BOHANNON WIDGETS, you'll never again get voicemail, or have to do anything but allow live, cooperative human beings to actually SERVE you. I know--the word is unfamiliar, look it up. So, come to BOHANNON WIDGETS...the people place." Now, then: sure, you'll have to shell out money for a $25,000 a year receptionist and a few sales clerks. AND YOU'LL HAVE TO STAND BACK FROM THE STAMPEDE OF CUSTOMERS THROWING MONEY AT YOU...just so they can avoid the voicemail village idiots who form your competition. And we in the public certainly hope you do this. Otherwise, it's only a matter of time before the DENTIST has you in for do-it-yourself drilling...for your convenience.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Mar-21-2005
Words of Wisdom
Osama bin Laden did us no favors September 11th, but he's proven that even the darkest of dark clouds can contain a silver lining. After those dastardly, cowardly, terror attacks, we have--if all too briefly--rallied again. We became Americans again. Not disgruntled Americans, hyphenated Americans, litigating Americans, or complacent Americans, but just Americans. This country is remarkable in so many ways, but near the top of my list would be our ability to take the hard shot and get up--to make up for lost ground and go on to the inevitable triumph. We've made something of a habit of what golf fans used to call an Arnold Palmer finish: make a few mistakes early, fall behind, then come charging down the fairways on Sunday poised to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. We never entered a war truly prepared 'til the Gulf War of 1991, and that was against an enemy with no capability to strike directly at us. One who had to wait while we took months to assemble and transport our knockout punch. When the armies of Hitler, Tojo, and Mussolini were ravaging the civilized world, the U.S. Congress managed to get around to passing the continuance of the draft by one vote, mere months before the savage and devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. Always, we've sat smugly behind two oceans, and, armed with the idiocy of isolationism, told ourselves that our ultimate triumph was inevitable. But it wasn't. Not then, and most assuredly not today. Those oceans are just a few minutes delay in the arrival of a ballistics missile. And in countless ways, at countless targets, an open society such as ours lies vulnerable to even the weakest foe. We are a target-rich environment. We'd be well advised to scuttle that come-from-behind strategy--or excuse--once and for all before it really burns us. I'm convinced that these attacks have proven our nobility. When we first came to world preeminence more than half a century ago, other countries would have carved an empire. We gave the world the Marshal Plan. No other country in history has ever agonized so much over ways to avoid civilian casualties, or ways to feed the starving in Afghanistan, or the proper treatment of the uncivilized savages at Guantanamo Bay, who laugh at our concepts of human dignity and legalistic nitpicking known as the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The United States is far from perfect, but from the comparisons of the real world, we're a darned sight closer to perfect than any dominant power in history. Yet, within that nobility there have been examples of some of the most bigoted xenophobia toward anyone who could be vaguely stereotyped as a terrorist. We need to rein that in--and forcefully--or we just might wind up giving Osama bin Laden exactly what he wants: a holy war. We remain bewildered by the abject hatred of our enemies. Part of it is just plain envy. We're successful. Our system works. That's sufficient for small minds. We've been the world's top dog for just over half a century. The British, who held that rank for 350 years, learned that there are those who always hate the dominant power, merely because they are dominant. The British learned what we must learn: those at the top can never depend on the world's affection, but we can demand its respect. Militarily, we've prevailed again in lopsided victories. But if I were Osama bin Laden, still alive out there somewhere--my forces dead, imprisoned or scattered--I'd still take heart in the lessons some of our past enemies learned: take your shots from the Americans, but never give up. In the end the U.S. will tire of the effort, or get bored, and seek a dozen excuses to stop...and then you can prevail. That's our biggest foe right now: the gross national attention span. We're Americans, and we think instant gratification is our birthright. We're the only society in history which stands in front of the microwave oven yelling "Hurry!! I haven't got all minute!!" If we can overcome some of those things, we may yet prove as invincible as we think we are.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-06-2005
Words of Wisdom
Before February gets too far along, I thought I'd pass along the fact that this is SOME month this year, not even including that quadrennial bulking up to 29 days like last year. But calendrical steroid use aside, this is some month because it's really 22 months in one. It's all of those special declared months. This is, for example, American History Month...Black History Month...and Black Heritage Month. It's also Humpback Whale Awareness month--if one is around, I imagine you'd be aware--and Cat Health Month. And, so that we humans are well enough to look after the welfare of stray cats and whales, February is also Heart Month, Marfan Syndrome Awareness Month, Children's Dental Health Month, and Life-Rhythms and Health Month. And you'd better be healthy if you also celebrate Canned Food Month, Great American Pies Month, Snack Food Month, Cherry Month, Grapefruit Month, and Shape Up With Pickles Time. Now, just put everything in a blender and hope that somebody declares this antacid month as well. And if you go buy all of that, you can also observe Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month. February is also National Blah Buster Month, designed to provide comfort to all who still suffer the winter blahs, since February is considered by many to be the most depressing month of the year. And this is National Embroidery Month, if all we've listed so far hasn't kept you in stitches. February is National Develop Your Self-Esteem Month, and it's Human Relations Month. And while it may be completely coincidental, this is also National Condom Month. Plus, It's Creative Romance Month. Just remember: one person's creativity is another person's felony.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-05-2005
Words of Wisdom
Now that Bush II:2 (2nd Bush, 2nd term) is underway, I still hear a few of you not-so-silently bleating about the outcome of the election. In fairness, we'd be hearing the same if John Kerry had won, so I thought I'd stroll through the official outcome, to see if you think the also-rans would have been any better. Finishing 3rd, with over 390,000 votes--and, like everybody else on this list, that's below 1% of the total vote--was Ralph Nader, the new Harold Stassen of the left. Fourth place went to Libertarian Michael Badnarik, who got over 373,000 votes for anti-government views just short of a Pentagon fire sale. Fifth was Michael Peroutka of the Constitution Party, who got nearly 129,000 votes on the view that Republicans are really flaming socialists. Sixth place really is a flaming socialist, David Cobb of the Green Party, which wants to "eradicate the military-industrial complex." Not manage it, or prune it--eradicate it, and--what? Plant trees as a national defense? Whatever, it was a view worth nearly 104,000 votes. In 7th place in the recent race for the presidency, with over 21,000 votes, was Leonard Peltier, whose ability to serve as president is somewhat hampered by his current incarceration. Eighth place went to Walter Brown of the Socialist Party with 10,187 votes, from those who, like Walter, want to withdraw all U.S. troops--everywhere. In 9th place, with 6,678 votes, is James Harris of the Socialist Workers Party, who only ran because their real nominee, Roger Calero, is foreign born and under the age of 35, doubly ineligible to be president, but still good for 5,255 votes. We go to 11th place, where Thomas Harens of the Christian Freedom Party got 2,339 votes by proclaiming that voting for Kerry was a venial sin. Even Karl Rove didn't think of that. Next, in 12th place, is Socialist Equality Party candidate Bill Van Auken, who got 2,088 votes, and whose website admits, in a burst of uncharacteristic minor party candor, that he wasn't going to win. But Billy, you beat out Prohibitionist Gene Amondson, who only received 1,895 votes, thanks in part to factional fighting which could lead some of them to drink. Fourteenth place goes to John Parker of the Workers World Party--1,159 votes for a group reputed to have a violent orientation. Charles Jay of the Personal Choice Party was chosen by 867 voters for 15th place, and in 16th place is Andy Andress--715 votes--about whom we know merely that he once ran for congress on the slogan "Honesty." And lest we forget, with 3,379 votes, which would have beaten out half a dozen of these honest to goodness presidential contenders, was "None of the Above." Bush and Kerry are looking better all the time.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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 Feb-01-2005
Words of Wisdom
I've noted, of late, that I seem to be behind the curve of some of my journalistic colleagues. Armstrong Williams got in major hot water for accepting $240,000 from the Department of Education for promoting 'No Child Left Behind.' At this time, he appears to be the grownup left behind, as least as far as a journalistic career is concerned. Then, columnist Maggie Gallagher has admitted being paid $21,500 to help write an article for an assistant secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as to brief department officials on the President's initiative to strengthen families. Either Gallagher was selling out at discount, or the Education Department has a better fee scale. We've even learned that Jonathan Cheban, of public relations fame, we are told, has been banned by the cable channel VH1. Seems he was talking up Evian water on the show 'The Fabulous Life,' without disclosing that he was getting paid to promote the overrated tap water. Granted, he doesn't even pretend to be a journalist, while Williams and Gallagher, as columnists, are, at best, opinion types who always have an axe or two to grind. However, I'm not getting my share. Why, I did an hour interview on 'No Child Left Behind,' and expressed my backing for the concept. But did the Education Department offer me even a paltry hundred grand? No, indeed. So it's time to make my policy clear: I can be bought. I don't want to be exorbitant. To push policies with which I agree, as both Williams and Gallagher say they did, I'll sell out for $100,000. To back something on which I have no opinion will cost you $250,000. But if you want me to bury my principles along with my integrity, it'll cost you half a million dollars. I feel these are reasonable rates, considering the nearly 500 radio stations which carry one or more of my shows, and considering how, up 'til now, I've earned a reputation for honesty and integrity which will, of course, only go down hill from here. And what's that trickling down the legs of my listeners? Why, it's only a revenue stream. Trust me. Offer void wherever my voice can be heard.
Posted by Jim Bohannon at 12:00 AM
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Dec-10-2007