Stax: Soulsville U.S.A., Jamila Wignot’s four-part HBO documentary about the legendary Memphis record label that produced Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and others, offers incredible first-person stories. At one point, Booker T. Jones sits at a piano and shows exactly how he stumbled on the chords that became the 1962 chart-topper “Green Onions.”
But not long after she began working on the project, Wignot realized the story of Stax went much deeper. The label, which began (as Satellite Records) in 1957 and closed in 1975, spanned an intensely tumultuous period in American history,...
But not long after she began working on the project, Wignot realized the story of Stax went much deeper. The label, which began (as Satellite Records) in 1957 and closed in 1975, spanned an intensely tumultuous period in American history,...
- 8/6/2024
- by Jonathan Bernstein
- Rollingstone.com
In a small record store on McLemore Avenue, the soulful sound of Stax Records was born. This former movie theater in the South Memphis neighborhood might not have seemed the likeliest spot to launch a musical revolution. But in the 1960s, under the leadership of siblings Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton, this unassuming storefront became the epicenter of a new genre—Southern soul.
With artists like Otis Redding, Carla Thomas, and The Bar-Kays laying down tracks in the studio upstairs, Stax developed a raw, funky sound unlike anything coming out of Motown up north. Male-female duos like Sam & Dave brought the noise with rousing call-and-response songs, while the house band Booker T. & the MGs laid down some of the tightest grooves in popular music. It was soul music perfected for the church and the dance hall.
This documentary series, directed by Jamila Wignot, shines a light on the glory days...
With artists like Otis Redding, Carla Thomas, and The Bar-Kays laying down tracks in the studio upstairs, Stax developed a raw, funky sound unlike anything coming out of Motown up north. Male-female duos like Sam & Dave brought the noise with rousing call-and-response songs, while the house band Booker T. & the MGs laid down some of the tightest grooves in popular music. It was soul music perfected for the church and the dance hall.
This documentary series, directed by Jamila Wignot, shines a light on the glory days...
- 8/4/2024
- by Naser Nahandian
- Gazettely
Shows like ‘True Detective,’ ‘Hacks,’ ’ The Sympathizer,’ and others are putting their best foot forward for Emmy voters.
The Primetime Emmy Awards are still three months out, but campaign season is in full gear. The nomination round of voting began this week and runs through Monday, June 24. As is often the case, Warner Bros. Discovery has dozens of titles up for consideration between the premium prestige programs of HBO and the buzzy streaming-exclusive shows on Max. To help remind voters of the series that they loved over the past year, Max is launching For Your Consideration (FYC) panels featuring the cast, producers, and crews of titles to make the case for their nominations. Subscribers can find a large selection of panels on Max now, and those who aren’t already signed up for Max can take advantage of the streamer’s limited-time free trial to check out the panels and the shows themselves!
The Primetime Emmy Awards are still three months out, but campaign season is in full gear. The nomination round of voting began this week and runs through Monday, June 24. As is often the case, Warner Bros. Discovery has dozens of titles up for consideration between the premium prestige programs of HBO and the buzzy streaming-exclusive shows on Max. To help remind voters of the series that they loved over the past year, Max is launching For Your Consideration (FYC) panels featuring the cast, producers, and crews of titles to make the case for their nominations. Subscribers can find a large selection of panels on Max now, and those who aren’t already signed up for Max can take advantage of the streamer’s limited-time free trial to check out the panels and the shows themselves!
- 6/14/2024
- by David Satin
- The Streamable
A new docuseries, Stax: Soulsville U.S.A., will look at the radical history of the groundbreaking Memphis label, which has been home to Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Sam and Dave, Booker T. and the M.G.’s, and the Staple Singers, among others. A trailer for the four-part series, which debuts with two episodes on HBO and the whole thing on Max on May 20, explains how label founders Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton, who were white, fell in love with Black music and made the label a haven for artists...
- 5/2/2024
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
"We were on top of the world." HBO Docs has unveiled the trailer for a documentary series titled Stax: Soulsville U.S.A., arriving for streaming later this month. This docu series from HBO "captures how an underdog record label launched a movement and superstar musicians like Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding." The Memphis soul sound that electrified the world... In 1960s Memphis, an audacious set of interracial collaborators dared to make their own music on their own terms, forming Stax Records, one of America's most influential creators of Black music. At the peak of its success, Stax artists commemorated the Watts Rebellion by playing to over 100,000 African Americans at the 1972 benefit concert Wattstax. During an era of major social turbulence, systemic inequity, racial tensions, Stax saw stunning artistic & cultural success, and managed to rebound from repeated business setbacks & losses before the studio ultimately dissolved after 15 pioneering years. With appearances by Otis Redding,...
- 5/2/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Even during their early 2010s commercial peak, when outside producers, pop-funk influences, and expanded instrumentation transformed them into a genuine mainstream act, the Black Keys’s songs were still full of empty space. Listening to “Tighten Up” or “Lonely Boy” today, it’s striking how spare they sound. They’re slick but not overproduced. There’s not a single extraneous element, enabling the hooks to hammer home with maximum efficiency and giving the songs’ indelible grooves plenty of room to breathe.
The same can’t be said for the band’s 12th studio album, Ohio Players, which is so overstuffed with guest musicians that Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney are often swallowed whole. For the most part, this isn’t an issue of principle so much as practical listenability. While a large ensemble approach is certainly compatible with the album’s funk, hip-hop, and R&b-inflected stylings, the mixing and...
The same can’t be said for the band’s 12th studio album, Ohio Players, which is so overstuffed with guest musicians that Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney are often swallowed whole. For the most part, this isn’t an issue of principle so much as practical listenability. While a large ensemble approach is certainly compatible with the album’s funk, hip-hop, and R&b-inflected stylings, the mixing and...
- 4/1/2024
- by Jeremy Winograd
- Slant Magazine
The Black Keys are ready for Valentine’s Day (or, more accurately, the Day After Valentine’s Day) with their cover of William Bell’s “I Forgot to Be Your Lover.” The two-and-a-half–minute apology recreates the song faithfully (and “faithful” goes a long way, as the Keys’ lovers will remind them), evoking the soulful regret Bell originally sang for recognizing he had become an inattentive, self-absorbed oaf.
The song finds Dan Auerbach plucking doleful chords and crooning through orchestral strings words like “Oh, I forgot to be your lover/And I’m sorry,...
The song finds Dan Auerbach plucking doleful chords and crooning through orchestral strings words like “Oh, I forgot to be your lover/And I’m sorry,...
- 2/9/2024
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
The Black Keys are back with “I Forgot to Be Your Lover,” the latest single from their forthcoming new album, Ohio Players.
Written by William Bell and Booker T. Jones — and first released by Bell as a single in 1968 — “I Forgot to Be Your Lover” is an ideal song for The Black Keys treatment, giving the duo an opportunity to show off their knack for mid-tempo, bluesy soul. Built around a foundation of guitars and a classic Patrick Carney groove, the arrangement is garnished with organ padding and silky strings.
With a sultry touch, the impassioned cover arrives, as the band’s posts on social media explain, “just in time for Valentines.” Watch the official lyric video below.
Following the release of “Beautiful People (Stay High)” last month, “I Forgot to Be Your Lover” is the second single from Ohio Players, which itself is set to arrive on April 5th via Nonesuch/Warner Records.
Written by William Bell and Booker T. Jones — and first released by Bell as a single in 1968 — “I Forgot to Be Your Lover” is an ideal song for The Black Keys treatment, giving the duo an opportunity to show off their knack for mid-tempo, bluesy soul. Built around a foundation of guitars and a classic Patrick Carney groove, the arrangement is garnished with organ padding and silky strings.
With a sultry touch, the impassioned cover arrives, as the band’s posts on social media explain, “just in time for Valentines.” Watch the official lyric video below.
Following the release of “Beautiful People (Stay High)” last month, “I Forgot to Be Your Lover” is the second single from Ohio Players, which itself is set to arrive on April 5th via Nonesuch/Warner Records.
- 2/9/2024
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
A star-studded event to honor Willie Nelson is premiering tonight!
Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration will air on Sunday (December 16) at 8:30 p.m. Et on CBS. Viewers can also stream the special on Paramount+.
A 12-time Grammy winner, Willie is widely regarded as a country music legend. Accordingly, some of the genre’s biggest stars, in addition to other A-list celebrities, took part in the television special commemorating his 90th birthday!
The show was taped on April 29 and 30 at the Hollywood Bowl.
Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration Performers List:
Allison Russell
Beck
Billy Strings
Booker T. Jones
Chris Stapleton
Dave Matthews
Gary Clark Jr.
George Strait
Jamey Johnson
Keith Richards
Kris Kristofferson
Lukas Nelson
Micah Nelson
Miranda Lambert
Norah Jones
Rosanne Cash
Sheryl Crow
Snoop Dogg
The Chicks
Warren Haynes
Special Guests:
Ethan Hawke
Helen Mirren
Jennifer Garner
Owen Wilson
Woody Harrelson
If you didn’t know,...
Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration will air on Sunday (December 16) at 8:30 p.m. Et on CBS. Viewers can also stream the special on Paramount+.
A 12-time Grammy winner, Willie is widely regarded as a country music legend. Accordingly, some of the genre’s biggest stars, in addition to other A-list celebrities, took part in the television special commemorating his 90th birthday!
The show was taped on April 29 and 30 at the Hollywood Bowl.
Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration Performers List:
Allison Russell
Beck
Billy Strings
Booker T. Jones
Chris Stapleton
Dave Matthews
Gary Clark Jr.
George Strait
Jamey Johnson
Keith Richards
Kris Kristofferson
Lukas Nelson
Micah Nelson
Miranda Lambert
Norah Jones
Rosanne Cash
Sheryl Crow
Snoop Dogg
The Chicks
Warren Haynes
Special Guests:
Ethan Hawke
Helen Mirren
Jennifer Garner
Owen Wilson
Woody Harrelson
If you didn’t know,...
- 12/17/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
The story of Stax records has long been smoothed over and sculpted into a neat bundle of Southern aphorism and marketing copy: The Memphis home of “Soul Man” and Shaft and the Staple Singers was the more authentic (insert adjective like “gritty” or “greasy” or “Southern-fried” here), counterpart to the pop-oriented Motown; a rare space of multiracial utopia in a segregated Sixties South; a locus, for Blacks in Memphis at the time, for the expressions and dreams of a better American future that lost its way in 1968 when those dreams...
- 6/22/2023
- by Jonathan Bernstein
- Rollingstone.com
Everyone loves Willie Nelson, a fact certified by the insane list of guests scheduled to celebrate the artist at two concerts marking his 90th birthday this April. Kacey Musgraves, The Chicks, Neil Young, Snoop Dogg, and more will perform at Long Story Short: Willie Nelson 90, A Star-Studded Concert Celebrating Willie’s 90th Birthday, going down at the Hollywood Bowl on April 29th and 30th.
So far, Willie’s birthday bash also promises performances from the man himself, as well as Allison Russell, Beck, Billy Strings, Bobby Weir, Charley Crockett, Chris Stapleton, Edie Brickell, Leon Bridges, Lukas Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Margo Price, Miranda Lambert, Nathaniel Rateliff, Norah Jones, Orville Peck, Particle Kid, Rosanne Cash, Sheryl Crow, Sturgill Simpson, The Avett Brothers, The Lumineers, Tom Jones, Tyler Childers, Warren Haynes and Ziggy Marley.
Update: Nelson has confirmed additional guests, including Dave Matthews, George Strait, Kris Kristofferson, Stephen Stills, Emmylou Harris, Jack Johnson,...
So far, Willie’s birthday bash also promises performances from the man himself, as well as Allison Russell, Beck, Billy Strings, Bobby Weir, Charley Crockett, Chris Stapleton, Edie Brickell, Leon Bridges, Lukas Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Margo Price, Miranda Lambert, Nathaniel Rateliff, Norah Jones, Orville Peck, Particle Kid, Rosanne Cash, Sheryl Crow, Sturgill Simpson, The Avett Brothers, The Lumineers, Tom Jones, Tyler Childers, Warren Haynes and Ziggy Marley.
Update: Nelson has confirmed additional guests, including Dave Matthews, George Strait, Kris Kristofferson, Stephen Stills, Emmylou Harris, Jack Johnson,...
- 4/26/2023
- by Carys Anderson
- Consequence - Music
Spencer Davis, Welsh musician and founder of the Spencer Davis Group, died Monday while being treated for pneumonia in the hospital. He was 81.
Bob Birk, his booking agent for more than 30 years, confirmed Davis’ death to Rolling Stone. “He was a very good friend,” Birk says. “He was a highly ethical, very talented, good-hearted, extremely intelligent, generous man. He leaves behind his long-time domestic partner, June, and three adult children.”
Davis was born on July 17th, 1939 in Swansea, South Wales. Fluent in German, French, and Spanish, he was known to musicians as “the Professor,...
Bob Birk, his booking agent for more than 30 years, confirmed Davis’ death to Rolling Stone. “He was a very good friend,” Birk says. “He was a highly ethical, very talented, good-hearted, extremely intelligent, generous man. He leaves behind his long-time domestic partner, June, and three adult children.”
Davis was born on July 17th, 1939 in Swansea, South Wales. Fluent in German, French, and Spanish, he was known to musicians as “the Professor,...
- 10/20/2020
- by Angie Martoccio
- Rollingstone.com
It’s 7 a.m. in Venice, and Matt Berninger has already been up for four and a half hours. Why? The National frontman and his wife, Carin Besser, are still polishing up songs for Cyrano, a years-long musical project based on the 1897 play about the life of a 17th-century French writer. Besser, who writes best at night, had been working on the songs until 2:30 a.m., at which point Berninger woke up and spent the dark hours of the morning finishing up what she started.
This type of creative...
This type of creative...
- 10/16/2020
- by Jonathan Bernstein
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger dances through heartbreak in his new video for “One More Second.” The single appears on his upcoming debut solo LP, Serpentine Prison, which arrives on October 16th via Book’s Records in conjunction with Concord Records.
In the Chris Sgroi-directed clip, Berninger performs alone on a stage as well as dances throughout the clip, which is interwoven with scenes of him looking out at a vast arena crowd and shots from the studio. The reflective lyrics, which yearn for a love interest to give him another chance,...
In the Chris Sgroi-directed clip, Berninger performs alone on a stage as well as dances throughout the clip, which is interwoven with scenes of him looking out at a vast arena crowd and shots from the studio. The reflective lyrics, which yearn for a love interest to give him another chance,...
- 9/24/2020
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger has shared a new song, “One More Second,” from his upcoming debut solo album, Serpentine Prison, out October 2nd via Book Records.
The song starts out as a minimal and meditative acoustic tune, but soon expands with shuffling drums, rich organ, blooming backing vocals and even a tasteful — and slightly off-kilter — piano solo. “Give me one more second to dry my eyes,” Berninger sings, “Give me one more day to realize/Smoke’s in our eyes or in the distance/Either way, we’re gonna miss it.
The song starts out as a minimal and meditative acoustic tune, but soon expands with shuffling drums, rich organ, blooming backing vocals and even a tasteful — and slightly off-kilter — piano solo. “Give me one more second to dry my eyes,” Berninger sings, “Give me one more day to realize/Smoke’s in our eyes or in the distance/Either way, we’re gonna miss it.
- 9/10/2020
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger has shared his new song “Distant Axis” from the singer’s upcoming solo album Serpentine Prison.
Berninger’s debut solo LP, due out October 2nd via Book Records, was produced by Memphis legend Booker T. Jones and features contributions from David Bowie bassist Gail Ann Dorsey, Andrew Bird, fellow National members and the Walkmen’s Walter Martin, who co-wrote “Distant Axis.”
“I met Walter Martin 15 years ago when the National opened for the Walkmen on a tour of shitty clubs in the American Southeast. On that tour,...
Berninger’s debut solo LP, due out October 2nd via Book Records, was produced by Memphis legend Booker T. Jones and features contributions from David Bowie bassist Gail Ann Dorsey, Andrew Bird, fellow National members and the Walkmen’s Walter Martin, who co-wrote “Distant Axis.”
“I met Walter Martin 15 years ago when the National opened for the Walkmen on a tour of shitty clubs in the American Southeast. On that tour,...
- 7/17/2020
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger will be releasing his debut solo album, Serpentine Prison, on October 2nd. Produced by renowned Memphis multi-instrumentalist Booker T. Jones, the LP will be released on Book Records, a new imprint of Concord Records formed by Berninger and Jones.
Berninger has also shared the album’s title track along with a video showing its recording process in the studio. “Don’t try to connect the dots anymore,” Berninger croons over strummed guitar, subdued percussion and a single organ note. “Let ’em go, they’re gonna do it on their own.
Berninger has also shared the album’s title track along with a video showing its recording process in the studio. “Don’t try to connect the dots anymore,” Berninger croons over strummed guitar, subdued percussion and a single organ note. “Let ’em go, they’re gonna do it on their own.
- 5/20/2020
- by Claire Shaffer
- Rollingstone.com
Bill Withers was my first true idol. His debut album, Just As I Am, came out in May 1971, four months after I was born. When I first heard his songs, either on the radio or on my dad’s records, I knew that I was hearing something different. His music and his vocals were as down-to-earth as the earth itself. Too often, black artists get classified as otherworldly talents (Michael Jackson, Prince) or gritty, up-from-the-streets hustlers who are barely overcoming animal instincts (too many to name). Withers was something else: a black everyman,...
- 4/9/2020
- by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson
- Rollingstone.com
Soulful singer-songwriter Bill Withers, best known for a string of hits that includes “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lean On Me,” has died from heart complications. He was 81.
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father,” Withers’ family said in a statement to the Associated Press. “A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other. As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones.”
The three-time Grammy Award winner released eight albums before retiring from music in 1985. However, his inspiration and influence on artists, films, and music fans has never stopped. Even today, amidst the coronavirus pandemic,...
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father,” Withers’ family said in a statement to the Associated Press. “A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other. As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones.”
The three-time Grammy Award winner released eight albums before retiring from music in 1985. However, his inspiration and influence on artists, films, and music fans has never stopped. Even today, amidst the coronavirus pandemic,...
- 4/3/2020
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Nearly 10 minutes into Bill Withers’ set at the BBC, the soul singer attempted to introduce a personal song. “Most of us in our lives … get our tongues tied up and can’t say what we intended to,” he said, as laughter filled the room. “So I’ll take another crack at it.”
He tried again: “Most of us, at some point in our lives, have somebody that means more to us than anybody else has ever meant before or will ever mean again,” he said. “In my case, I really...
He tried again: “Most of us, at some point in our lives, have somebody that means more to us than anybody else has ever meant before or will ever mean again,” he said. “In my case, I really...
- 4/3/2020
- by Angie Martoccio
- Rollingstone.com
Bill Withers got a late start. He was nearing 30 when he began writing songs on a cheap guitar between shifts at an aircraft-parts factory. “I figured out that you didn’t need to be a virtuoso to accompany yourself,” he told Rolling Stone in 2015. A demo he made caught the ear of Clarence Avant, head of indie label Sussex, and Withers went on to cut some of the most enduring albums of the Seventies, filled with intimate, slow-burning songs that packed a serious emotional wallop. He continued to notch hits till the mid-Eighties,...
- 4/3/2020
- by Jon Blistein, Kory Grow, Elias Leight and Hank Shteamer
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger rides a bicycle to the beach in the video for “Holes.” Berninger covered the Mercury Rev track for the 7-inches for Planned Parenthood series, titled Vol.2-Pt.2.
Directed by Chris Sgroi, the clip shows Berninger recording the song as scenes of him on the bike flash by. He stands on a foggy beach, staring at the ocean. Originally released on Mercury Rev’s 1999 LP Deserter’s Songs, Berninger’s take is much more somber and delicate. “Holes, dug by little moles, angry jealous,” he sings over acoustic guitar.
Directed by Chris Sgroi, the clip shows Berninger recording the song as scenes of him on the bike flash by. He stands on a foggy beach, staring at the ocean. Originally released on Mercury Rev’s 1999 LP Deserter’s Songs, Berninger’s take is much more somber and delicate. “Holes, dug by little moles, angry jealous,” he sings over acoustic guitar.
- 2/28/2020
- by Angie Martoccio
- Rollingstone.com
The National have announced a slew of 2020 North American tour dates with support from Lucy Dacus, Sharon Van Etten, and Australian singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin.
Before arriving in the states, the band will head out on a overseas trek in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. It will be supported by Phoebe Bridgers, who recently teamed up with frontman Matt Berninger for “Walking on a String,” from Between Two Ferns: The Movie — as well as a cover of Simon and Garfunkel’s “7 O’Clock News/Silent Night” with Fiona Apple.
The band...
Before arriving in the states, the band will head out on a overseas trek in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. It will be supported by Phoebe Bridgers, who recently teamed up with frontman Matt Berninger for “Walking on a String,” from Between Two Ferns: The Movie — as well as a cover of Simon and Garfunkel’s “7 O’Clock News/Silent Night” with Fiona Apple.
The band...
- 2/18/2020
- by Angie Martoccio
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger made a special appearance on Apple TV+ series Helpsters to rap about long words alongside a group of puppets. The track, titled “The Long Words Song,” is all about Berninger’s love for lengthy words.
“I like long words and I like to recite ’em,” Berninger raps. “I like all the pages and pages it takes to write ’em.” He adds, “I even got a word for the long words in this song: they’re sesquipedalian and that means long.” The song is, ironically, short and sweet,...
“I like long words and I like to recite ’em,” Berninger raps. “I like all the pages and pages it takes to write ’em.” He adds, “I even got a word for the long words in this song: they’re sesquipedalian and that means long.” The song is, ironically, short and sweet,...
- 12/23/2019
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
The musical legacy of legendary soul label Stax Records will be explored in a limited edition eight-lp box set from record subscription service Vinyl Me, Please.
Vmp Anthology: The Story of Stax Records features eight albums from the Memphis label’s golden period of 1957 to 1975, with LPs from Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Booker T and the M.G.’s, Isaac Hayes and more part of the curated collection. Each album in the box set has been pressed onto 180-gram vinyl.
The Story of Stax Records follows Vinyl Me, Please...
Vmp Anthology: The Story of Stax Records features eight albums from the Memphis label’s golden period of 1957 to 1975, with LPs from Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Booker T and the M.G.’s, Isaac Hayes and more part of the curated collection. Each album in the box set has been pressed onto 180-gram vinyl.
The Story of Stax Records follows Vinyl Me, Please...
- 12/9/2019
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Owsley Stanley was known as the foremost underground LSD chemist of the 1960s. But he was also an exacting pioneer of live concert sound, a man who helped invent both monitor systems and high-fidelity amplification. When he died in 2011 at the age of 76, Stanley left behind a breathtaking array of some 1,300 reels amassed between 1966 and 1982. Buried inside are lost concerts by legends like Johnny Cash, Fleetwood Mac, Tim Buckley, and dozens of others, alongside the San Francisco psychedelic bands Stanley is most often associated with, such as the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane.
- 12/5/2019
- by Jesse Jarnow
- Rollingstone.com
No one in the music business was asking “Where’s the beef?” this week. It was right out in the open, as Taylor Swift/Big Machine, Lizzo vs. Postmates, and Sharon Osbourne vs. Bob Lefsetz squared off against each other over various issues.
Using the power of social media to shame, make a point, and generally launch missiles against their foes, the parties lobbed accusations against each other, with various fans and observers choosing sides in the disputes.
This week in music:
NPR Notes Songs About Hating The Biz: In a week where disputes dominated the music business, NPR put together a list of songs that were about hating the business side of the music business. Who knew that legal entanglements had a beat and could be danced to?
Taylor Swiftly J’Accuse: This week saw yet another confrontation between Taylor Swift and her former record label, Big Machine. She...
Using the power of social media to shame, make a point, and generally launch missiles against their foes, the parties lobbed accusations against each other, with various fans and observers choosing sides in the disputes.
This week in music:
NPR Notes Songs About Hating The Biz: In a week where disputes dominated the music business, NPR put together a list of songs that were about hating the business side of the music business. Who knew that legal entanglements had a beat and could be danced to?
Taylor Swiftly J’Accuse: This week saw yet another confrontation between Taylor Swift and her former record label, Big Machine. She...
- 11/16/2019
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
The honest truth, Booker T. Jones tells Rolling Stone, is that he never intended to write a book.
Two weeks before his 75th birthday, Jones — keyboardist, songwriter, arranger, producer, and, most famously, leader of foundational Stax Records house band Booker T. and the Mg’s — is slowly getting used to adding one more title to his resume: author.
Last week, Jones released Time Is Tight, a stunningly vivid memoir of his life in music, art, and love, first in Memphis and later, California. “This was a labor for me,” he says,...
Two weeks before his 75th birthday, Jones — keyboardist, songwriter, arranger, producer, and, most famously, leader of foundational Stax Records house band Booker T. and the Mg’s — is slowly getting used to adding one more title to his resume: author.
Last week, Jones released Time Is Tight, a stunningly vivid memoir of his life in music, art, and love, first in Memphis and later, California. “This was a labor for me,” he says,...
- 11/6/2019
- by Jonathan Bernstein
- Rollingstone.com
The National’s Matt Berninger and his wife and co-songwriter Carin Besser recently wrote a love song while lingering by baggage claim at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City. That might not seem like the most romantic setting, but the impromptu writing session led to “Write Me a Love Song,” a track from Cyrano, a new off-Broadway production set to open at New York’s Daryl Roth Theatre on November 7th, courtesy of The New Group.
“The characters in this play cannot just tell each other...
“The characters in this play cannot just tell each other...
- 10/28/2019
- by Brenna Ehrlich
- Rollingstone.com
The National appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live‘s Brooklyn week to perform their recent song “Where Is Her Head.” Performing in the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the band gave an energized performance of the lush, layered song, which comes off their new album I Am Easy to Find. In the clip, frontman Matt Berninger shares the impassioned vocals with three female singers, bringing the song to a rollicking finish.
The National released I Am Easy to Find, their eighth album, in May. The album includes collaborations with Gail Ann Dorsey,...
The National released I Am Easy to Find, their eighth album, in May. The album includes collaborations with Gail Ann Dorsey,...
- 10/24/2019
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
Matt Berninger, frontman of the National, has announced plans to release his debut solo album Serpentine Prison. The musician revealed the news via Instagram, also confirming that the songs were produced and arranged by Booker T. Jones.
“More about it soon but basically I’m the luckiest man in the universe with lots of brilliant friends who can play instermints,” Berninger wrote. “Not worthy!” He also directed fans to Jones’ upcoming memoir, Time Is Tight, which is out October 29th. Berninger has not shared a release date for the album.
“More about it soon but basically I’m the luckiest man in the universe with lots of brilliant friends who can play instermints,” Berninger wrote. “Not worthy!” He also directed fans to Jones’ upcoming memoir, Time Is Tight, which is out October 29th. Berninger has not shared a release date for the album.
- 10/18/2019
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
Five years after he broke through with his earworm anthem “Take Me To Church,” Hozier proved he has staying power with his second album, Wasteland, Baby!, which became his first Number One album in March. The Irish songwriter recruited Mavis Staples and Booker T. Jones and paid tribute to Nina Simone, while doing his best to block out commercial expectations “My head was spinning,” he told Rolling Stone of his early success. “It took a long time for me to even make sense of it all.”
Hozier shared the video...
Hozier shared the video...
- 4/16/2019
- by Patrick Doyle
- Rollingstone.com
Hozier covered Destiny’s Child’s “Say My Name” as part of Spotify’s Singles series, reimagining the snappy R&B-pop hit as a gospel-tinged slow-jam. The “Take Me to Church” singer explores his full vocal range throughout the organ-fueled track, moving from warm crooning to a feathery falsetto.
In a statement about the session, which also includes a live take on his 2018 single “Movement,” Hozier detailed how he decided to cover the 1999 single.
“During rehearsals for the recent tour, the band and I would throw around a few progressions...
In a statement about the session, which also includes a live take on his 2018 single “Movement,” Hozier detailed how he decided to cover the 1999 single.
“During rehearsals for the recent tour, the band and I would throw around a few progressions...
- 1/9/2019
- by Ryan Reed
- Rollingstone.com
Hozier announced a headlining North American tour for spring 2019. The 26-date trek launches March 10th in Buffalo, New York and wraps April 14th in Spokane, Washington.
General public tickets go on sale starting Friday, December 14th at 10 a.m. local time. Each online purchase will include a CD copy of the singer-songwriter’s upcoming second LP, Wasteland, Baby!; fans can upgrade to an LP version for an additional charge. Though Hozier has yet to announce the album’s timeline, he said in a statement that the tour will “coincide with the release.
General public tickets go on sale starting Friday, December 14th at 10 a.m. local time. Each online purchase will include a CD copy of the singer-songwriter’s upcoming second LP, Wasteland, Baby!; fans can upgrade to an LP version for an additional charge. Though Hozier has yet to announce the album’s timeline, he said in a statement that the tour will “coincide with the release.
- 12/10/2018
- by Ryan Reed
- Rollingstone.com
Just three weeks after stunning fans by releasing a video for “No Erasin'” from his surprise new solo album Traces, Steve Perry is sharing another video from the album. This time around it’s for “No More Cryin’,” a sad song about love and loss that was at least partially inspired by death of his girlfriend Kellie Nash in 2012.
“‘No More Cryin’ is a love song, but not in the way you would think,” Perry said in a statement. “It starts in one place, and builds and lands somewhere entirely different.
“‘No More Cryin’ is a love song, but not in the way you would think,” Perry said in a statement. “It starts in one place, and builds and lands somewhere entirely different.
- 9/5/2018
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
In mid-2015, Andrew Hozier-Byrne was living out what seemed like any musician’s dream. The Irish singer-songwriter’s independently released breakout single “Take Me to Church” sparked a U.S. label bidding war, skyrocketed to Number Two on the Billboard Hot 100, and, much to his surprise, entrenched itself on pop radio for several months. As if that wasn’t enough, only two years removed from life as a college dropout who’d frequent open mics around Dublin, the husky-voiced singer was booked on Saturday Night Live and then duetted at the Grammys with Annie Lenox.
- 8/31/2018
- by Dan Hyman
- Rollingstone.com
Steve Perry, the reclusive former Journey frontman who hasn’t put out a new album in nearly a quarter century, will return this fall with a new LP, Traces. The record, which Perry coproduced with Thom Flowers, contains nine original songs and a cover of the Beatles’ “I Need You.” It’s due out October 5th.
The first single, “No Erasin’,” tells the story of a school reunion with an ex-flame but its words also fit his story of walking away. “I know it’s been a long time comin’ since I saw your face,...
The first single, “No Erasin’,” tells the story of a school reunion with an ex-flame but its words also fit his story of walking away. “I know it’s been a long time comin’ since I saw your face,...
- 8/15/2018
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
More than 3,000 musicians are owed money that’s been collected on their behalf by the Sound Recording Special Payments Fund, which distributes annual supplemental wages to music makers. Among those owed money are Bob Dylan, Lady Gaga, Lionel Richie, Eric Clapton, Kanye West, The Who’s Roger Daltrey, the E Street Band’s Steven Van Zandt, actor-musician Johnny Depp, Booker T. Jones of Booker T. and the M.G.’s and all four members of U2.
The estates of many late rockers, bluesmen and jazz greats also have unclaimed money coming to them, including Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, Barry White, The Who’s Keith Moon and John Entwistle and saxaphonist John Coltrane. Read the full list here.
Established in 1964 by collective bargaining agreement between the record labels and the American Federation of Musicians, the fund’s contributions are based on revenue generated by the sale of music recordings, whether in the form of CDs,...
The estates of many late rockers, bluesmen and jazz greats also have unclaimed money coming to them, including Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, Barry White, The Who’s Keith Moon and John Entwistle and saxaphonist John Coltrane. Read the full list here.
Established in 1964 by collective bargaining agreement between the record labels and the American Federation of Musicians, the fund’s contributions are based on revenue generated by the sale of music recordings, whether in the form of CDs,...
- 6/19/2018
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
It will likely come as no surprise that, 40 years after the release of his classic album of standards “Stardust,” Willie Nelson will be releasing another standards-filled new collection, this one devoted to the repertoire of Frank Sinatra.
“Sinatra and I were very good friends,” Nelson says by way of explanation. “He was my favorite singer, and he had written one time in an article that I was his favorite singer, so we kinda kicked it off good together, and we worked a few shows together, did a couple of albums together, and a video. He was just a buddy.”
Nelson expects that the Sinatra project, titled “My Way,” will be released on the heels of “Last Man Standing,” his new Legacy Recordings album, out today (April 27), just ahead of his 85th birthday. Buddy Cannon, who has produced most of the singer-songwriter’s recent records, recorded the horn- and string-laden backing...
“Sinatra and I were very good friends,” Nelson says by way of explanation. “He was my favorite singer, and he had written one time in an article that I was his favorite singer, so we kinda kicked it off good together, and we worked a few shows together, did a couple of albums together, and a video. He was just a buddy.”
Nelson expects that the Sinatra project, titled “My Way,” will be released on the heels of “Last Man Standing,” his new Legacy Recordings album, out today (April 27), just ahead of his 85th birthday. Buddy Cannon, who has produced most of the singer-songwriter’s recent records, recorded the horn- and string-laden backing...
- 4/27/2018
- by Chris Morris
- Variety Film + TV
The Music Modernization Act, which combines key provisions of what were four separate legislative initiatives into a single bill that will update how music rates are set and how songwriters and artists are paid, was passed unanimously by a House Judiciary Committee earlier this month. The bill now awaits consideration by the full House of Representatives. Variety has published guest posts both approving and criticizing the act. Here, Reps. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) and Doug Collins (R-Ga.) present their perspective.
Last week, we were happy to join House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (D-n.Y.) in introducing an historic bill for the music industry, the Music Modernization Act of 2018 (Mma), which passed unanimously out of the Judiciary Committee 32-0. As co-chairs of the Creative Rights Caucus, we have supported music creators since we came to Congress, and we’re gratified to see the Mma modernize music...
Last week, we were happy to join House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (D-n.Y.) in introducing an historic bill for the music industry, the Music Modernization Act of 2018 (Mma), which passed unanimously out of the Judiciary Committee 32-0. As co-chairs of the Creative Rights Caucus, we have supported music creators since we came to Congress, and we’re gratified to see the Mma modernize music...
- 4/18/2018
- by Judy Chu and Doug Collins
- Variety Film + TV
Is your heart still pounding? Culminating in the escape of Agent Dale Cooper's doppelganger, tonight's Twin Peaks was tense and terrifying enough to leave you freaked out long after "Sleep Walk" on the Double R's jukebox brought the credits to a close. But before we talk about all that, let's take a look at the dogs that didn't bark. Throughout the episode, co-creators David Lynch and Mark Frost utilize the show's usual ingredients for creating supernatural suspense. The results they produce this time out, however, are completely different.
The hour...
The hour...
- 6/19/2017
- Rollingstone.com
IGN, 2K
In their weekly roster reveal, IGN have announced further superstars that will appear in WWE 2K16 when it is released on October 27.
All of the men are from the Attitude Era and will undoubtedly play a huge role in the marque Stone Cold Steve Austin mode, this year’s main feature.
Screenshots of: Farooq, D’Lo Brown, Kama Mustafa (Nation of Domination), Dude Love, Cactus Jack, Rikishi, Vader, X-Pac, Jim Neidhart and Bret Hart have been released; while roster artwork of Billy Gunn, The British Bulldog, Christian, Damien Sandow, Haku, The Honky Tonk Man, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Ken Shamrock, Mankind, Paul Wight (The Big Show V1), Shane McMahon, Shawn Michaels, and Vince McMahon have also seen the light of day for the first time today.
You can see all the photos Here.
2K, IGN
The Dudester’s entrance has also been revealed online and represents a huge...
In their weekly roster reveal, IGN have announced further superstars that will appear in WWE 2K16 when it is released on October 27.
All of the men are from the Attitude Era and will undoubtedly play a huge role in the marque Stone Cold Steve Austin mode, this year’s main feature.
Screenshots of: Farooq, D’Lo Brown, Kama Mustafa (Nation of Domination), Dude Love, Cactus Jack, Rikishi, Vader, X-Pac, Jim Neidhart and Bret Hart have been released; while roster artwork of Billy Gunn, The British Bulldog, Christian, Damien Sandow, Haku, The Honky Tonk Man, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Ken Shamrock, Mankind, Paul Wight (The Big Show V1), Shane McMahon, Shawn Michaels, and Vince McMahon have also seen the light of day for the first time today.
You can see all the photos Here.
2K, IGN
The Dudester’s entrance has also been revealed online and represents a huge...
- 9/7/2015
- by Ross Tweddell
- Obsessed with Film
IGN/2K Games
There were more names announced today for the WWE2K16 video game that launches in October.
Here are the names that were announced by IGN.com: Diamond Dallas Page, Alicia Fox, Cesaro, Tyson Kidd, Cameron, Big Show, Bam Bam Bigelow, Dolph Ziggler, Finlay, Layla, Kevin Nash, Lex Luger, The Miz, Naomi, Randy Orton, Sheamus, Darren Young and Titus O’Neil.
There aren’t that many surprises in that grouping since a lot of them are current stars. Legends like Diamond Dallas Page, Bam Bam Bigelow and Lex Luger are all welcome additions to the new game and Finlay has worked backstage in WWE for over a decade, so even though he’s not currently on television, he’s a long time employee and his inclusion isn’t too surprising.
Here’s a video of Kidd and Cesaro’s entrance.
In addition to the names above, here’s...
There were more names announced today for the WWE2K16 video game that launches in October.
Here are the names that were announced by IGN.com: Diamond Dallas Page, Alicia Fox, Cesaro, Tyson Kidd, Cameron, Big Show, Bam Bam Bigelow, Dolph Ziggler, Finlay, Layla, Kevin Nash, Lex Luger, The Miz, Naomi, Randy Orton, Sheamus, Darren Young and Titus O’Neil.
There aren’t that many surprises in that grouping since a lot of them are current stars. Legends like Diamond Dallas Page, Bam Bam Bigelow and Lex Luger are all welcome additions to the new game and Finlay has worked backstage in WWE for over a decade, so even though he’s not currently on television, he’s a long time employee and his inclusion isn’t too surprising.
Here’s a video of Kidd and Cesaro’s entrance.
In addition to the names above, here’s...
- 8/24/2015
- by John Canton
- Obsessed with Film
2K Games
A new video posted by IGN has apparently revealed the (almost) full roster for WWE 2K16.
It is common knowledge now that the new game will have a bumper roster of 120 unique characters, but the list below falls a few short of that while Hulk Hogan is still a part of it. The Hulkster has been removed from the game altogether for reasons that you don’t need me to tell you about.
There are a number of shocking inclusions, including Superstars down the pecking order in Nxt and Attitude Era stars who had very little to do with cover star Stone Cold Steve Austin. While there are also a number of notable exclusions, including the Legion of Doom, who seemed to be nailed on for a place in the new title after leaked video footage appeared to show Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler and Jim Ross recording commentary...
A new video posted by IGN has apparently revealed the (almost) full roster for WWE 2K16.
It is common knowledge now that the new game will have a bumper roster of 120 unique characters, but the list below falls a few short of that while Hulk Hogan is still a part of it. The Hulkster has been removed from the game altogether for reasons that you don’t need me to tell you about.
There are a number of shocking inclusions, including Superstars down the pecking order in Nxt and Attitude Era stars who had very little to do with cover star Stone Cold Steve Austin. While there are also a number of notable exclusions, including the Legion of Doom, who seemed to be nailed on for a place in the new title after leaked video footage appeared to show Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler and Jim Ross recording commentary...
- 8/6/2015
- by Ross Tweddell
- Obsessed with Film
Clearly, the relationship between Hulk Hogan and Gawker founder Nick Denton is not getting 20 percent nicer. Embattled wrestling legend Hogan — who’s suing Gawker for $100 million over the publication of a sex tape in which he appears — filed court papers on Wednesday saying that circumstances “strongly suggest” Gawker leaked audio from the sex tape of Hogan using the N-word. And if he can prove that they did, Hogan wants Denton and anyone else involved punished to the fullest extent, including jail time. Also Read: Hulk Hogan N-Word Scandal: Wrestler Booker T Is 'Shocked By the Statements' Hogan — real name:.
- 7/29/2015
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
We are into March and it is only a little more than a month until WrestleMania 31 in California. Last week was one of the times when I felt like I’d wasted time watching Raw, so I was hoping the Road to WrestleMania might take a more interesting and entertaining turn tonight, and I’m glad to say that, for the most-part, it did.
With the same old matches now being booked again, and some surprising things happening, this episode of Raw from New Jersey was good. It wasn’t great, but some of the parts of it were, and we’ll get into that in this column.
Match Results:
Dean Ambrose defeated Bad News Barrett The Uso’s & Naomi beat Tyson Kidd, Cesaro & Natalya John Cena squashed Curtis Axel Paige beat Nikki Bella via Dq Daniel Bryan defeated Luke Harper Seth Rollins beat Roman Reigns
The opening segment of...
With the same old matches now being booked again, and some surprising things happening, this episode of Raw from New Jersey was good. It wasn’t great, but some of the parts of it were, and we’ll get into that in this column.
Match Results:
Dean Ambrose defeated Bad News Barrett The Uso’s & Naomi beat Tyson Kidd, Cesaro & Natalya John Cena squashed Curtis Axel Paige beat Nikki Bella via Dq Daniel Bryan defeated Luke Harper Seth Rollins beat Roman Reigns
The opening segment of...
- 3/3/2015
- by Chris Cummings
- Nerdly
A trailer has been released for music documentary Take Me to the River.
Snoop Dogg, Mavis Staples, William Bell, Booker T Jones, Yo Gotti, Bobby 'Blue' Bland, Otis Clay, Lil P-Nut and Charlie Musselwhite are among the cross-generational Memphis musicians to feature in the film.
Terrence Howard narrates the film, which unites the Mississippi Delta musicians to create a classic-modern soul sound.
The film also takes a look back over the region's history and its influence on the music of the last century.
Directed by Martin Shore, it is named after the classic Al Green song.
An album by the film's stars will also be released in tandem with the film.
Take Me to the River will be released on September 12 in the Us. A UK release date has yet to be announced.
Snoop Dogg, Mavis Staples, William Bell, Booker T Jones, Yo Gotti, Bobby 'Blue' Bland, Otis Clay, Lil P-Nut and Charlie Musselwhite are among the cross-generational Memphis musicians to feature in the film.
Terrence Howard narrates the film, which unites the Mississippi Delta musicians to create a classic-modern soul sound.
The film also takes a look back over the region's history and its influence on the music of the last century.
Directed by Martin Shore, it is named after the classic Al Green song.
An album by the film's stars will also be released in tandem with the film.
Take Me to the River will be released on September 12 in the Us. A UK release date has yet to be announced.
- 8/18/2014
- Digital Spy
Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, Al Green, Box Tops, Carl Perkins, Big Bill Broonzy, Bobby Womack, Booker T. & The MGs. These soul artists created a body of work that to this day stands with distinction, so what better way to honor them than to team up some of those musicians with.....hip hop artists? That's the central premise of the upcoming documentary "Take Me To The River," that finds director Martin Shore chronicling the making of an album featuring veteran artists like Mavis Staples, Bobby Rush and Otis Clay, teaming with folks like Snoop Dogg, Lil' P-Nut and Yo Gotti. Uh...okay. "Take Me To The River" opens on September 12th, and if you need a little push to see it, the doc scored an Audience Award at SXSW this spring. Watch below. [EW]...
- 8/15/2014
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
Detroit has Motown, but the Mississippi delta is where it all began. The gospel, folk, soul and R&B music that developed there evolved into modern pop and became the soundtrack for multiple generations of Americans; and the city of Memphis became this cultural oasis for all sorts of musical experiments and breakthroughs, exemplified by the heyday of Stax Records. In Take Me To the River, filmmaker Martin Shore paired old-school legends with current hip-hop artists for an album and a documentary about the timeless language of music that speaks across all generations and races.
“Outside, on the streets of Memphis,...
“Outside, on the streets of Memphis,...
- 8/14/2014
- by Jeff Labrecque
- EW - Inside Movies
WWE.com
A lot of people have been talking about Benjamin Morris’ 538 piece, “Are Pro Wrestlers Dying at an Unusual Rate?”
Like Morris, I am neither an actuarial scientist nor a demographer. So, our interpretations of the data should be taken with a grain of salt. My results were somewhat different from Morris’ due to a difference data set and changes in how we calculated actuarial predictions.
Differences in methodology from Morris
I also used Social Security Actuarial Life Tables, but my “expected mortality rates” for the age groups were not the same as Morris’. For each wrestler, I calculated what their age would have been as of today. Then, based on gender, I looked up the number of lives (out of 100,000) that were expected to still be alive and converted that to a percentage. His analysis looked at wrestlers who were on 20+ WWF PPVs through 2002. I went with a...
A lot of people have been talking about Benjamin Morris’ 538 piece, “Are Pro Wrestlers Dying at an Unusual Rate?”
Like Morris, I am neither an actuarial scientist nor a demographer. So, our interpretations of the data should be taken with a grain of salt. My results were somewhat different from Morris’ due to a difference data set and changes in how we calculated actuarial predictions.
Differences in methodology from Morris
I also used Social Security Actuarial Life Tables, but my “expected mortality rates” for the age groups were not the same as Morris’. For each wrestler, I calculated what their age would have been as of today. Then, based on gender, I looked up the number of lives (out of 100,000) that were expected to still be alive and converted that to a percentage. His analysis looked at wrestlers who were on 20+ WWF PPVs through 2002. I went with a...
- 4/22/2014
- by Chris Harrington
- Obsessed with Film
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