Michael Jackson‘s “Blood on the Dance Floor” is one of the most underrated songs of the “Thriller” singer‘s career. While the song’s funky instrumental is fascinatingly dark, the song’s backstory is even darker. The song’s producer revealed that the King of Pop wasn’t even aware of the creepy coincidence behind “Blood on the Dance Floor.”
The connection between Michael Jackson’s ‘Blood on the Dance Floor’ and a shooting
In the 1990s, the “Man in the Mirror” star started experimenting with the R&b subgenre known as new jack swing. Who better to help him than Teddy Riley, the lead singer of the band Blackstreet? Riley worked with Jackson on the final three studio albums the King of Pop released in his lifetime — Dangerous, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, and Invincible — as well as the remix album Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix.
The connection between Michael Jackson’s ‘Blood on the Dance Floor’ and a shooting
In the 1990s, the “Man in the Mirror” star started experimenting with the R&b subgenre known as new jack swing. Who better to help him than Teddy Riley, the lead singer of the band Blackstreet? Riley worked with Jackson on the final three studio albums the King of Pop released in his lifetime — Dangerous, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, and Invincible — as well as the remix album Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix.
- 4/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Many of Michael Jackson‘s posthumously released songs are available on streaming. Three were removed. One member of Jackson’s family questioned their authenticity.
La Toya Jackson said some Michael Jackson songs removed from streaming are fishy
Jackson’s musical legacy is still being felt after his death in major ways. Following his death, the King of Pop’s estate put out two albums of previously unreleased material: 2010’s Michael and 2014’s Xscape. Some of the songs from Michael turned heads due to allegations the vocalist singing them was not Jackson.
According to NPR, Jackson’s sister, La Toya, once sewed seeds of doubt. “I am shocked that things have gotten this far,” she tweeted. “This is ridiculous. I was at the studio when these questionable files were delivered. I heard these ‘so-called’ Michael Jackson songs raw and without the distraction of the well-produced music by Teddy Riley. How they...
La Toya Jackson said some Michael Jackson songs removed from streaming are fishy
Jackson’s musical legacy is still being felt after his death in major ways. Following his death, the King of Pop’s estate put out two albums of previously unreleased material: 2010’s Michael and 2014’s Xscape. Some of the songs from Michael turned heads due to allegations the vocalist singing them was not Jackson.
According to NPR, Jackson’s sister, La Toya, once sewed seeds of doubt. “I am shocked that things have gotten this far,” she tweeted. “This is ridiculous. I was at the studio when these questionable files were delivered. I heard these ‘so-called’ Michael Jackson songs raw and without the distraction of the well-produced music by Teddy Riley. How they...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
New Jack Swing pioneer Teddy Riley — who produced iconic hits including Doug E. Fresh’s “The Show” and Bobby Brown’s “My Prerogative” — has announced his new memoir, Remember the Times, published by Simon & Schuster’s 13A / Gallery Books imprint.
Riley tapped music biographer Jake Brown to collaborate on the tome, which will chronicle his five decades of hits and trace the past 40 years of his influential impact on hip-hop and R&b for generations. Beyond helming earlier classics, including Kool Moe Dee’s “Wild Wild West” and Keith Sweat...
Riley tapped music biographer Jake Brown to collaborate on the tome, which will chronicle his five decades of hits and trace the past 40 years of his influential impact on hip-hop and R&b for generations. Beyond helming earlier classics, including Kool Moe Dee’s “Wild Wild West” and Keith Sweat...
- 1/30/2024
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Post Malone’s tunesmithery was rewarded Thursday night when the Songwriters Hall of Fame gave him the Hal David Starlight Award, named for the lyricist who wrote “Walk on By,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” and “Do You Know the Way to San Jose” with the late Burt Bacharach. The trophy recognizes young songwriters impacting the music world with original songs.
“I don’t think that I’m deserving of it but I’m so honored and so happy to be among so many legendary names and so many legendary people,...
“I don’t think that I’m deserving of it but I’m so honored and so happy to be among so many legendary names and so many legendary people,...
- 6/16/2023
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
The 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony felt like a family reunion: Taylor Swift collaborator Liz Rose received a heartwarming performance by her teary-eyed daughter, Gloria Estefan performed lively hits alongside her grandson and husband, and Teddy Riley was joined by his musical brothers from Harlem.
Jeff Lynne and Glen Ballard were also part of the new class, which was celebrated Thursday night in New York City. Egot recipient Tim Rice and Post Malone also received special honors.
Liz Rose, who met Swift in her early teens and co-wrote songs on her first two albums, was honored with an emotional performance by her daughter Caitlin Rose. She sang Swift’s “White Horse,” which won the best country song Grammy in 2010.
The audience at the Marriott Marquis New York cheered Caitlin Rose on as she wiped tears from her face during the touching performance. Her voice cracked at times, beautifully, as she looked at her mother,...
Jeff Lynne and Glen Ballard were also part of the new class, which was celebrated Thursday night in New York City. Egot recipient Tim Rice and Post Malone also received special honors.
Liz Rose, who met Swift in her early teens and co-wrote songs on her first two albums, was honored with an emotional performance by her daughter Caitlin Rose. She sang Swift’s “White Horse,” which won the best country song Grammy in 2010.
The audience at the Marriott Marquis New York cheered Caitlin Rose on as she wiped tears from her face during the touching performance. Her voice cracked at times, beautifully, as she looked at her mother,...
- 6/16/2023
- by Mesfin Fekadu
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Snoop Dogg has deferred his induction into the 2023 Songwriters Hall of Fame. The organization made the announcement just two days before this year’s ceremony, stating that he cited “personal reasons” (via Billboard) and will instead be inducted with the class of 2024.
The Long Beach rapper isn’t the only inductee from this year’s class to withdraw from the ceremony. Sade Adu has also deferred, though the Songwriters Hall of Fame has only said she will be inducted with a future class.
Jeff Lynne, Gloria Estefan, Teddy Riley, Glen Ballard, and Liz Rose will still be inducted at the ceremony, where Tim Rice will receive the organization’s highest honor, the Johnny Mercer Award. Meanwhile, Post Malone will be honored with the Hal David Starlight Award, which was created to celebrate “gifted songwriters who are at an apex in their careers and are making a significant impact in the...
The Long Beach rapper isn’t the only inductee from this year’s class to withdraw from the ceremony. Sade Adu has also deferred, though the Songwriters Hall of Fame has only said she will be inducted with a future class.
Jeff Lynne, Gloria Estefan, Teddy Riley, Glen Ballard, and Liz Rose will still be inducted at the ceremony, where Tim Rice will receive the organization’s highest honor, the Johnny Mercer Award. Meanwhile, Post Malone will be honored with the Hal David Starlight Award, which was created to celebrate “gifted songwriters who are at an apex in their careers and are making a significant impact in the...
- 6/13/2023
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
Mark Sheehan, who played lead guitar for the alt-pop group The Script, died Friday after a brief illness. The band announced the news on Facebook, writing, “Much loved husband, father, brother, band mate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a brief illness. The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time.” Sheehan was 46. A cause of death was not given.
Sheehan missed the band’s U.S. tours in 2021 and 2022. “It’s his story to tell, but yeah, I guess if I could paraphrase,...
Sheehan missed the band’s U.S. tours in 2021 and 2022. “It’s his story to tell, but yeah, I guess if I could paraphrase,...
- 4/14/2023
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
Gloria Estefan, Snoop Dogg, Teddy Riley, Sade Adu, Liz Rose, Glen Ballard and Jeff Lynne will be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame on June 15 during the organization’s 52nd annual induction and awards gala in New York City.
Chairman Nile Rodgers shared a statement expressing the importance of songwriters and how, without them, there would be no recorded music, concerts or merch.
“It all starts with the song and the songwriter,” he said. “We are therefore very proud that we are continually recognizing some of the culturally most important songwriters of all time and that the 2023 slate represents not just iconic songs but also diversity and unity across genres, ethnicity and gender, songwriters who have enriched our lives and, in their time, literally transformed music and the lives of billions of listeners all over the world.”
Estefan is an eight-time Grammy-winning singer and songwriter, whose career has spanned nearly five decades.
Chairman Nile Rodgers shared a statement expressing the importance of songwriters and how, without them, there would be no recorded music, concerts or merch.
“It all starts with the song and the songwriter,” he said. “We are therefore very proud that we are continually recognizing some of the culturally most important songwriters of all time and that the 2023 slate represents not just iconic songs but also diversity and unity across genres, ethnicity and gender, songwriters who have enriched our lives and, in their time, literally transformed music and the lives of billions of listeners all over the world.”
Estefan is an eight-time Grammy-winning singer and songwriter, whose career has spanned nearly five decades.
- 1/19/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Snoop Dogg, Gloria Estefan, Sade, Jeff Lynne, Glen Ballard, Teddy Riley and Liz Rose have been chosen to join the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a class that includes the writers of such varied hits as “Man In the Mirror,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You.”
The seven songwriters from the class of 2023 will be inducted at a gala June 15 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.
Read More: Snoop Dogg Says Dionne Warwick ‘Outgangstered’ Him And Tupac Over Misogynistic Lyrics
Snoop Dogg, whose hits include “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “Gin & Juice,” will be joining such rappers as Missy Elliott and Jay-Z in the hall. Estefan is credited for popularizing Latin rhythms with such crossover smashes as “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You” and “Let’s Get Loud.”
The inductees include soul-jazz vocalist Sade, whose 1980s soft rock hits include “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo,...
The seven songwriters from the class of 2023 will be inducted at a gala June 15 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.
Read More: Snoop Dogg Says Dionne Warwick ‘Outgangstered’ Him And Tupac Over Misogynistic Lyrics
Snoop Dogg, whose hits include “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “Gin & Juice,” will be joining such rappers as Missy Elliott and Jay-Z in the hall. Estefan is credited for popularizing Latin rhythms with such crossover smashes as “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You” and “Let’s Get Loud.”
The inductees include soul-jazz vocalist Sade, whose 1980s soft rock hits include “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo,...
- 1/18/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Sade Adu (better known simply as Sade), Alanis Morrisette’s longtime collaborator Glen Ballard, Snoop Dogg, Gloria Estefan, Electric Light Orchestra founder Jeff Lynne, New Jack Swing pioneer Teddy Riley, and Taylor Swift collaborator Liz Rose will become the latest inductees of the Songwriters Hall of Fame at the organization’s 52nd Annual Induction and Awards Gala.
The event is set for Thursday, June 15 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. Additional special award honorees will be announced soon.
The hall announced the latest inductees today, with Chairman Nile Rodgers saying in a statement, “The music industry does not exist without songwriters delivering great songs first. Without them there is no recorded music, no concert business, no merch . . . nothing, it all starts with the song and the songwriter.” He added that the 2023 slate of inductees ” We are therefore very proud that we are continually recognizing some of the...
The event is set for Thursday, June 15 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. Additional special award honorees will be announced soon.
The hall announced the latest inductees today, with Chairman Nile Rodgers saying in a statement, “The music industry does not exist without songwriters delivering great songs first. Without them there is no recorded music, no concert business, no merch . . . nothing, it all starts with the song and the songwriter.” He added that the 2023 slate of inductees ” We are therefore very proud that we are continually recognizing some of the...
- 1/18/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Bryan Adams, R.E.M., Blondie, Snoop Dogg, Gloria Estefan, Heart and The Doobie Brothers are among the nominees for the 2023 Songwriters Hall of Fame, part of a dazzling list of talented acts who left their mark on country, pop, rap, Broadway, post-punk, Latin and New Jack Swing.
The ballot includes the musical theater duo of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, who wrote Ragtime and Anastasia, as well as soul-jazz vocalist Sade, whose 1980s soft rock hits include “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo.”
Two veteran rock stars are also nominees: Patti Smith — whose songs include “Because the Night” and “Dancing Barefoot” — and Steve Winwood, whose hits include “Higher Love” and “Roll With It.” Vince Gill is once again a nominee, having first made the ballot in 2018.
Eligible voting members have until Dec. 28 to turn in ballots with their choices of three nominees...
Bryan Adams, R.E.M., Blondie, Snoop Dogg, Gloria Estefan, Heart and The Doobie Brothers are among the nominees for the 2023 Songwriters Hall of Fame, part of a dazzling list of talented acts who left their mark on country, pop, rap, Broadway, post-punk, Latin and New Jack Swing.
The ballot includes the musical theater duo of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, who wrote Ragtime and Anastasia, as well as soul-jazz vocalist Sade, whose 1980s soft rock hits include “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo.”
Two veteran rock stars are also nominees: Patti Smith — whose songs include “Because the Night” and “Dancing Barefoot” — and Steve Winwood, whose hits include “Higher Love” and “Roll With It.” Vince Gill is once again a nominee, having first made the ballot in 2018.
Eligible voting members have until Dec. 28 to turn in ballots with their choices of three nominees...
- 11/14/2022
- by Associated Press
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bobby Brown recounts the origins of new jack swing and his hit “My Prerogative” in a new clip from the upcoming two-part documentary Biography: Bobby Brown. It airs May 30 and May 31 on A&e.
The clip begins with Brown and critic/author Nelson George offering a succinct breakdown of new jack swing, the latter explaining how it took “the aggression of hip-hop and some of the instrumental sounds, but mixed them with R&b melodies.”
The producer at the forefront of this revolution was Teddy Riley, who invited Brown to...
The clip begins with Brown and critic/author Nelson George offering a succinct breakdown of new jack swing, the latter explaining how it took “the aggression of hip-hop and some of the instrumental sounds, but mixed them with R&b melodies.”
The producer at the forefront of this revolution was Teddy Riley, who invited Brown to...
- 5/27/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
An untitled documentary about Grammy-winning artist Lizzo is coming to HBO Max this fall, she announced at the Warner Bros. Discovery upfront on Wednesday, while unveiling the first teaser of the film. The doc will follow the singer, songwriter, rapper, flutist and actor from her humble beginnings to her history-making career in music and culture, as she balances the challenges of stardom.
“Growing up I never dreamed I’d get to experience all of the things I’ve accomplished in my life, and I’m just getting started,” Lizzo said in a statement. “I’m so excited I get to share and relive my journey with my fans and HBO Max. From ‘Cuz I Love You’ to my dramatic world tour, losing and gaining love, and creating my new album ‘Special,’ y’all get to see the amount of time, patience, blood, sweat and tears that went into this process.
“Growing up I never dreamed I’d get to experience all of the things I’ve accomplished in my life, and I’m just getting started,” Lizzo said in a statement. “I’m so excited I get to share and relive my journey with my fans and HBO Max. From ‘Cuz I Love You’ to my dramatic world tour, losing and gaining love, and creating my new album ‘Special,’ y’all get to see the amount of time, patience, blood, sweat and tears that went into this process.
- 5/18/2022
- by Sasha Urban, Carson Burton and Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Recordings of 9/11 news reports, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s speeches and Henry Aaron’s 715th home run will be preserved alongside Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” and other albums and singles — and one podcast — as the Library of Congress released its 2022 list of additions to the National Recording Registry today. See the full list below.
The 25 selections of music and spoken-word pieces added today range span more than 80 years — from James P. Johnson’s 1927 “Harlem Strut” to Mark Maron’s 2010 Wtf podcast featuring Robin Williams — alongside some of the greatest songs and albums of the past 100 years.
Along with the Queen standard, other newly added singles include Nat King Cole’s 1961 holiday chestnut “The Christmas Song,” Ricky Martin’s 1999 smash “La Vida Loca,” Andy Williams’ Oscar-winning Henry Mancini-Johnny Murcer song “Moon River” from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the Disneyland Boys Choir’s 1964 earworm “It’s a Small World,” Journey’s 1981 hit “Don’t...
The 25 selections of music and spoken-word pieces added today range span more than 80 years — from James P. Johnson’s 1927 “Harlem Strut” to Mark Maron’s 2010 Wtf podcast featuring Robin Williams — alongside some of the greatest songs and albums of the past 100 years.
Along with the Queen standard, other newly added singles include Nat King Cole’s 1961 holiday chestnut “The Christmas Song,” Ricky Martin’s 1999 smash “La Vida Loca,” Andy Williams’ Oscar-winning Henry Mancini-Johnny Murcer song “Moon River” from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the Disneyland Boys Choir’s 1964 earworm “It’s a Small World,” Journey’s 1981 hit “Don’t...
- 4/13/2022
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
“Conversations With Friends,” the upcoming series adaptation of Sally Rooney’s novel, will premiere on May 15 on Hulu, BBC announced today, in addition to dropping a new trailer for the show.
The series follows 21-year-old Frances (Alison Oliver), who, after three years, is still best friends with her ex-girlfriend, Bobbi (Sasha Lane). The two are inseparable, but at one of their poetry performances in Dublin, they meet Melissa (Jemima Kirke), an older writer who is taken by them. Bobbi and Frances begin to hang out with Melissa and her husband, Nick (Joe Alwyn), a handsome actor. Melissa and Bobbi flirt openly with one another, but Nick and Frances begin a serious affair, which tests the bond between Frances and Bobbi, forcing Frances to re-examine her vulnerabilities.
“Would it depress you to sleep with someone who loved someone else?” Frances asks Bobbi in the trailer. “Not if they love me, too,...
The series follows 21-year-old Frances (Alison Oliver), who, after three years, is still best friends with her ex-girlfriend, Bobbi (Sasha Lane). The two are inseparable, but at one of their poetry performances in Dublin, they meet Melissa (Jemima Kirke), an older writer who is taken by them. Bobbi and Frances begin to hang out with Melissa and her husband, Nick (Joe Alwyn), a handsome actor. Melissa and Bobbi flirt openly with one another, but Nick and Frances begin a serious affair, which tests the bond between Frances and Bobbi, forcing Frances to re-examine her vulnerabilities.
“Would it depress you to sleep with someone who loved someone else?” Frances asks Bobbi in the trailer. “Not if they love me, too,...
- 4/12/2022
- by Carson Burton, Sasha Urban and Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Apple TV Plus released a trailer for “The Shrink Next Door,” which premieres the first three episodes of the eight-episode series on Nov. 12, followed by one new episode weekly, every Friday through Dec. 17.
The series stars Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Kathryn Hahn and Casey Wilson and is inspired by true events and the podcast of the same name. “The Shrink Next Door” follows the decades-long manipulation and exploitation by psychiatrist Dr. Isaac “Ike” Herschkopf (Rudd) and his longtime patient Martin Markowitz (Ferrel). Dr. Ike is accompanied by his unsuspecting wife Bonnie Herschkopf (Wilson) and though Marty may be defenseless against Dr. Ike, his sister Phyllis is not (Hahn).
“The Shrink Next Door” is directed by Michael Showalter and Jesse Peretz and based on the script by Georgia Pritchett. Ferrell and Rudd also serve as executive producers, along with Jessica Elbaum and Brittney Segal for Gloria Sanchez Productions. Pritchett executive produces...
The series stars Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Kathryn Hahn and Casey Wilson and is inspired by true events and the podcast of the same name. “The Shrink Next Door” follows the decades-long manipulation and exploitation by psychiatrist Dr. Isaac “Ike” Herschkopf (Rudd) and his longtime patient Martin Markowitz (Ferrel). Dr. Ike is accompanied by his unsuspecting wife Bonnie Herschkopf (Wilson) and though Marty may be defenseless against Dr. Ike, his sister Phyllis is not (Hahn).
“The Shrink Next Door” is directed by Michael Showalter and Jesse Peretz and based on the script by Georgia Pritchett. Ferrell and Rudd also serve as executive producers, along with Jessica Elbaum and Brittney Segal for Gloria Sanchez Productions. Pritchett executive produces...
- 10/12/2021
- by Katie Song
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon has unveiled the cast for its upcoming adult animated comedy series Fairfax, setting Skyler Gisondo (Booksmart), Kiersey Clemons (The Flash), Peter S. Kim (Housebroken) and Jaboukie Young-White (The Daily Show) as the main voice cast. The comedy, which received a two-season order from the streaming service, comes from Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley, Serious Business, Titmouse and Amazon Studios.
The series also has added Pamela Adlon, Jeff Bottoms, Yvette Nicole Brown, Rob Delaney, Zoey Deutch, Colton Dunn, John Leguizamo, Camila Mendes, Larry Owens, Linda Park, Billy Porter, Ben Schwartz, Tim Simons and Jb Smoove as guest stars.
Amazon has also unveiled the series’ premiere date and first-look images. See the images below.
Set to bow October 29 on Prime Video, Fairfax follows four middle school best friends on their never-ending quest for clout on Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles — the pulsing heart of Hypebeast culture.
The series is executive produced by Hausfater,...
The series also has added Pamela Adlon, Jeff Bottoms, Yvette Nicole Brown, Rob Delaney, Zoey Deutch, Colton Dunn, John Leguizamo, Camila Mendes, Larry Owens, Linda Park, Billy Porter, Ben Schwartz, Tim Simons and Jb Smoove as guest stars.
Amazon has also unveiled the series’ premiere date and first-look images. See the images below.
Set to bow October 29 on Prime Video, Fairfax follows four middle school best friends on their never-ending quest for clout on Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles — the pulsing heart of Hypebeast culture.
The series is executive produced by Hausfater,...
- 9/29/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Kiersey Clemons, Jaboukie Young-White, Skyler Gisondo and Peter S. Kim will star in “Fairfax,” an upcoming Amazon adult animated comedy about four middle school best friends on a never-ending quest for clout. All eight episodes will drop on the streamer on Oct. 29. The show is set on Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles, the pulsing heart of hypebeast culture, wherein the BFFs are caught in the struggle to be cooler than they are, to fit in while standing out and waiting in line for a pair of sneakers they’re never going to cop. The artist Somehoodlum designed the characters for the series.
The star-studded guest cast of “Fairfax” includes Pamela Adlon as Phyllis, Jeff Bottoms as The Plug, Yvette Nicole Brown as Trini, Rob Delaney as Grant, Zoey Deutch as Lily, Colton Dunn as Principal Weston, John Leguizamo as Glenn the pigeon, Camila Mendes as Melody, Larry Owens as Jules,...
The star-studded guest cast of “Fairfax” includes Pamela Adlon as Phyllis, Jeff Bottoms as The Plug, Yvette Nicole Brown as Trini, Rob Delaney as Grant, Zoey Deutch as Lily, Colton Dunn as Principal Weston, John Leguizamo as Glenn the pigeon, Camila Mendes as Melody, Larry Owens as Jules,...
- 9/29/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
DJ Cassidy, whose popular “Pass the Mic” all-star video jams were most recently part of the Biden/Harris inaugural programs, has made a deal with BET to produce six “Mic” specials during 2021, all of them set to follow the network’s annual awards shows or other major programming.
The first of the six, dubbed “DJ Cassidy’s Pass The Mic: The BET After Party,” is now in production and set to air immediately following the NAACP Image Awards on March 27.
“I’ll continue to be celebrating my musical heroes of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s through their iconic records of all eras and genres,” Cassidy tells Variety. “I grew up watching BET, and I was exposed to many if not all of my musical heroes through watching their music videos on ‘Video Soul,’ ‘Rap City’ or their many other shows. So to partner with the network to bring ‘Pass the...
The first of the six, dubbed “DJ Cassidy’s Pass The Mic: The BET After Party,” is now in production and set to air immediately following the NAACP Image Awards on March 27.
“I’ll continue to be celebrating my musical heroes of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s through their iconic records of all eras and genres,” Cassidy tells Variety. “I grew up watching BET, and I was exposed to many if not all of my musical heroes through watching their music videos on ‘Video Soul,’ ‘Rap City’ or their many other shows. So to partner with the network to bring ‘Pass the...
- 3/18/2021
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
Disneyland shut down, production has been halted worldwide and “Succession” Season 3 is extremely delayed. But even in this dumpster fire of a year, the Variety staff manages to find ways to be grateful. Below, read what the writers, editors and reporters at Variety are thankful for in entertainment this Thanksgiving.
For sweatpants and cashmere, celery juice, “Promising Young Woman” and my coworkers: my weapons in defeating 2020 — Matt Donnelly, senior film writer
I’m thankful that Clare, the Bachelorette, was bold and honest enough to deClare her feelings for Dale before taking us through an entire season of phony relationships! — Sheila Howard, editorial coordinator
I am thankful for “Hamilton” on Disney Plus restoring my will to live at the mid-point of this brutal year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief of Variety
I’m thankful for Giuseppe Capotondi’s film version of Charles Willeford’s neo-noir novel “The Burnt Orange Heresy,” starring Claes Bang,...
For sweatpants and cashmere, celery juice, “Promising Young Woman” and my coworkers: my weapons in defeating 2020 — Matt Donnelly, senior film writer
I’m thankful that Clare, the Bachelorette, was bold and honest enough to deClare her feelings for Dale before taking us through an entire season of phony relationships! — Sheila Howard, editorial coordinator
I am thankful for “Hamilton” on Disney Plus restoring my will to live at the mid-point of this brutal year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief of Variety
I’m thankful for Giuseppe Capotondi’s film version of Charles Willeford’s neo-noir novel “The Burnt Orange Heresy,” starring Claes Bang,...
- 11/25/2020
- by Meg Zukin
- Variety Film + TV
DJ Cassidy’s popular “Pass the Mic” webcast series is going to TV on Thanksgiving weekend… and going totally ’80s. BET’s Nov. 29 broadcast of “The Soul Train Awards” will be immediately followed by a second prime-time special that will bring Cassidy’s all-star medleys, usually seen via Twitch and YouTube, to a network for the first time. And while the star DJ isn’t revealing any names yet, he is telling Variety that this edition of his mic-pass will bring together the leading lights of R&b from a decade that happens to be his favorite
Or maybe something more like just a half-decade, to get specific about it. “When I think about ‘Soul Train’ and the long legacy that spans decades,” he says, “I am immediately drawn into thinking about the 1980s. particularly the first half of the decade. The sounds of the R&b records that came...
Or maybe something more like just a half-decade, to get specific about it. “When I think about ‘Soul Train’ and the long legacy that spans decades,” he says, “I am immediately drawn into thinking about the 1980s. particularly the first half of the decade. The sounds of the R&b records that came...
- 11/20/2020
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
UTA has signed Grammy-winning recording artist and creator of the “New Jack Swing” music style Teddy Riley for worldwide representation in all areas.
Since the early ’80s, Riley’s influential New Jack Swing style have been infused in multiple music genres including contemporary R&b, hip-hop, gospel, soul and pop music. He has produced over 1,000 songs for some of the most iconic artists in the industry such as Michael Jackson, Bobby Brown, Keith Sweat, Doug E. Fresh, Johnny Kemp, Joe, Heavy D & The Boys, The Winans, and Al B. Sure, among others. In addiiton, he is the founding member of the popular R&b groups Guy and Blackstreet.
Riley serves as Music Supervisor and Composer for BET’s miniseries Uptown, set to air in fall 2021. Most recently, he battled Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds in the Instagram Live digital music series Verzuz in April. The series features two popular musicians in conversation...
Since the early ’80s, Riley’s influential New Jack Swing style have been infused in multiple music genres including contemporary R&b, hip-hop, gospel, soul and pop music. He has produced over 1,000 songs for some of the most iconic artists in the industry such as Michael Jackson, Bobby Brown, Keith Sweat, Doug E. Fresh, Johnny Kemp, Joe, Heavy D & The Boys, The Winans, and Al B. Sure, among others. In addiiton, he is the founding member of the popular R&b groups Guy and Blackstreet.
Riley serves as Music Supervisor and Composer for BET’s miniseries Uptown, set to air in fall 2021. Most recently, he battled Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds in the Instagram Live digital music series Verzuz in April. The series features two popular musicians in conversation...
- 11/20/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Rapper Snoop Dogg is to voice and exec produce an animated comedy for Amazon with Vince Vaughn also exec producing.
The streamer is developing Oaklandia, which is written by Daniel Dominguez (right), head writer and exec producer for season two of HBO Max’s Michael B. Jordan animated series Gen:Lock, and Chris “Comedian Cp” Powell (left), who starred in Comedy Central’s Detroiters and created Adult Swim special Ole Bud’s Anu Football Weekly.
The animated series is set in Oakland, California. Produced by Amazon Studios, Snoop Dogg and his manager and business partner Ted Chung exec produce alongside Vaughn, Victoria Vaughn and Peter Billingsley for Wild West Picture Show Productions and Dominguez and Powell.
It is the streamer’s latest move into adult animation. Earlier this year, it ordered Fairfax, a series based on the strange phenomenon of Los Angeles hypebeast culture, from Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum, and...
The streamer is developing Oaklandia, which is written by Daniel Dominguez (right), head writer and exec producer for season two of HBO Max’s Michael B. Jordan animated series Gen:Lock, and Chris “Comedian Cp” Powell (left), who starred in Comedy Central’s Detroiters and created Adult Swim special Ole Bud’s Anu Football Weekly.
The animated series is set in Oakland, California. Produced by Amazon Studios, Snoop Dogg and his manager and business partner Ted Chung exec produce alongside Vaughn, Victoria Vaughn and Peter Billingsley for Wild West Picture Show Productions and Dominguez and Powell.
It is the streamer’s latest move into adult animation. Earlier this year, it ordered Fairfax, a series based on the strange phenomenon of Los Angeles hypebeast culture, from Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum, and...
- 11/19/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
From the “Today” show to “Good Morning America,” morning TV hosts got in the Halloween spirit with a collection of fun and funky costumes on Friday ranging from “Tiger King” to “The Mandalorian” and more. Take a look below.
The “Today” Show did a tribute to the best of Broadway this year, with Hota Kotb and Savannah Guthrie dressing up as Glinda and Elphaba from “Wicked.” Other highlights included Jenna Bush Hager as Grizabella from “Cats” and Craig Melvin and Al Roker dressed up as Alexander Hamilton and King George from “Hamilton.”
In addition to their “Tiger King” look at Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin seen above, Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest did a couple other costumes on “Live With Kelly and Ryan” this year, including “The Mandalorian” and “Schitt’s Creek.”
To Joy Behar’s relief, “The View” didn’t do much dressing up this year — they went for a...
The “Today” Show did a tribute to the best of Broadway this year, with Hota Kotb and Savannah Guthrie dressing up as Glinda and Elphaba from “Wicked.” Other highlights included Jenna Bush Hager as Grizabella from “Cats” and Craig Melvin and Al Roker dressed up as Alexander Hamilton and King George from “Hamilton.”
In addition to their “Tiger King” look at Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin seen above, Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest did a couple other costumes on “Live With Kelly and Ryan” this year, including “The Mandalorian” and “Schitt’s Creek.”
To Joy Behar’s relief, “The View” didn’t do much dressing up this year — they went for a...
- 10/30/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Earlier this year, singer-songwriter-producer Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds — known for writing massive hits for Toni Braxton, TLC, and Boyz II Men — received a call from P. Diddy.
Diddy’s job was to convince Edmonds to face off against Teddy Riley on an Instagram-based rap battle. And he didn’t mince words. “He said, ‘Face, fuck that shy shit,'” Edmonds recalls. “‘Go do this.'”
Edmonds agreed. Though he was reluctant before Diddy’s blunt persuasion, his back-and-forth with Riley in the Instagram battle — a musical competition, called Verzuz, in which writers,...
Diddy’s job was to convince Edmonds to face off against Teddy Riley on an Instagram-based rap battle. And he didn’t mince words. “He said, ‘Face, fuck that shy shit,'” Edmonds recalls. “‘Go do this.'”
Edmonds agreed. Though he was reluctant before Diddy’s blunt persuasion, his back-and-forth with Riley in the Instagram battle — a musical competition, called Verzuz, in which writers,...
- 10/29/2020
- by Elias Leight
- Rollingstone.com
Those of a certain generation of people who thrive when they hear songs like Boyz II Men’s “Motownphilly” or Tony! Toni! Toné!’s “Feels Good” or Bobby Brown’s “My Prerogative”. There’s an incomparable sense of nostalgia when any song by Guy, Jade, Troop or the iconic Bell Biv DeVoe hits the airwaves. That era of music known as New Jack Swing is the subject of the new six-part podcast series “Jacked: The Rise of New Jack Swing” hosted and produced by Taraji P. Henson. Barry Michael Cooper will serve as a consulting producer. Wondery and Universal Music Group (Umg) will partner to produce the series which will premiere on November 17 on wherever you listen to podcasts.
Jacked will be written by Rico Gagliano and Andy Hermann and focus on the rise and fall of the New Jack Swing genre. The series will focus on the complex relationships...
Jacked will be written by Rico Gagliano and Andy Hermann and focus on the rise and fall of the New Jack Swing genre. The series will focus on the complex relationships...
- 10/15/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Podcast network Wondery has lined up a new slate of audio programming that will cover topics as varied as the downfall of a powerful politician, the battle for pizza primacy and the rise of Kamala Harris.
The four-year-old company, which made an early mark on podcasting with shows like Dirty John and Dr. Death, is expected to announce its fall lineup today at the Iab Podcast Upfronts.
The shows include recently premiered Bunga Bunga, in which host Whitney Cummings tells the story of the rise and fall of Silvio Berlusconi, and a new season of Business Wars, dubbed Pizza Wars, that explores the matchup between ...
The four-year-old company, which made an early mark on podcasting with shows like Dirty John and Dr. Death, is expected to announce its fall lineup today at the Iab Podcast Upfronts.
The shows include recently premiered Bunga Bunga, in which host Whitney Cummings tells the story of the rise and fall of Silvio Berlusconi, and a new season of Business Wars, dubbed Pizza Wars, that explores the matchup between ...
Andre Harrell, the music executive who launched Uptown Records and helped usher in a new era of hip-hop flavored soul and R&b, was laid to rest on Saturday (May 23) at George Washington Cemetery in Paramus, NJ. The funeral followed a celebration of his life at Vander Plaat-Caggiano Funeral Home in Fair Lawn, NJ. Harrell died on May 7 from heart disease-related issues.
Among the attendees were artists Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige, comedian Chris Rock and executives L.A. Reid and Lyor Cohen, according to local reports.
Participants included musical performers Jodeci and gospel icons BeBe and CeCe Winans. Remarks were made by Tracy Maitland, Cohen, Mark Siegel, Rock, Blige and the Rev. Al Sharpton in addition to Harrell’s son Gianni Credle-Harrell.
Harrell played a key role in launching the careers of P. Diddy, Blige, Teddy Riley, Heavy D, Jodeci and many others, which made a television tribute on Bet,...
Among the attendees were artists Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige, comedian Chris Rock and executives L.A. Reid and Lyor Cohen, according to local reports.
Participants included musical performers Jodeci and gospel icons BeBe and CeCe Winans. Remarks were made by Tracy Maitland, Cohen, Mark Siegel, Rock, Blige and the Rev. Al Sharpton in addition to Harrell’s son Gianni Credle-Harrell.
Harrell played a key role in launching the careers of P. Diddy, Blige, Teddy Riley, Heavy D, Jodeci and many others, which made a television tribute on Bet,...
- 5/27/2020
- by Jeff Vasishta
- Variety Film + TV
As the music world today is reeling from the news of Andre Harrell’s death at the age of 59, his colleagues and friends are celebrating the career of the Uptown Records founder. Harrell’s milestone career and personal story also are the subject of Uptown, a three-part original scripted miniseries, which was greenlighted by BET Networks in early December 2019.
Harrell was executive producing the project, which had been in pre-production when the coronavirus pandemic suspended all filming in Hollywood. The production held a series of open casting calls in December and January for performers to play 90s versions of Heavy D & The Boyz, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Kim Porter and Aaron Hall, among others.
No cast and production start date have been set for the miniseries, which originally was supposed to premiere in 2020. Because of the uncertainty over when Hollywood production will be able to safely resume,...
Harrell was executive producing the project, which had been in pre-production when the coronavirus pandemic suspended all filming in Hollywood. The production held a series of open casting calls in December and January for performers to play 90s versions of Heavy D & The Boyz, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Kim Porter and Aaron Hall, among others.
No cast and production start date have been set for the miniseries, which originally was supposed to premiere in 2020. Because of the uncertainty over when Hollywood production will be able to safely resume,...
- 5/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
A miniseries about the rise of the late Andre Harrell’s Uptown Records is still in the works and moving ahead at Bet following the veteran music executive’s death. But with production throughout the television business shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic, no premiere date or timetable for the start of shooting has been set.
“We are mourning the loss of a cultural icon, Andre Harrell, a chief architect of the modern hip-hop and R&b sound,” Bet president Scott Mills said in a statement. “Andre was tremendously excited about sharing the origin story of Uptown Records, and its pivotal role in the urban music landscape. With his tragic passing, Bet is committed to ensuring that the Uptown limited series event tells both the Uptown story and Andre’s story — that of the incredible music innovator, man and friend to so many.”
In December, Bet ordered “Uptown,” a...
“We are mourning the loss of a cultural icon, Andre Harrell, a chief architect of the modern hip-hop and R&b sound,” Bet president Scott Mills said in a statement. “Andre was tremendously excited about sharing the origin story of Uptown Records, and its pivotal role in the urban music landscape. With his tragic passing, Bet is committed to ensuring that the Uptown limited series event tells both the Uptown story and Andre’s story — that of the incredible music innovator, man and friend to so many.”
In December, Bet ordered “Uptown,” a...
- 5/9/2020
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Andre Harrell, the music executive who founded the influential Uptown Records, has died at the age of 59.
“We can confirm the passing of Andre Harrell,” Revolt network, where Harrell served as vice chairman, said in a statement. “Everyone in the Revolt family is devastated by the loss of our friend, mentor and Vice-Chairman. Andre’s impact on Hip Hop and the culture and on us has been immeasurable and profound. May he Rest In Peace.”
Harrell’s ex-wife, Wendy Credle, told The New York Times that the cause of death was heart failure.
“We can confirm the passing of Andre Harrell,” Revolt network, where Harrell served as vice chairman, said in a statement. “Everyone in the Revolt family is devastated by the loss of our friend, mentor and Vice-Chairman. Andre’s impact on Hip Hop and the culture and on us has been immeasurable and profound. May he Rest In Peace.”
Harrell’s ex-wife, Wendy Credle, told The New York Times that the cause of death was heart failure.
- 5/9/2020
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
The current stay-at-home guidelines may be leaving you a little stir crazy these days, but to borrow a line from his hit single, “Summertime,” DJ Jazzy Jeff is hoping to provide “just a little something to break the monotony.”
The DJ, producer and actor is the brainchild behind the “Break the Monotony Block Party,” an all-day virtual event happening May 9th, as part of the yearlong 30th anniversary celebrations for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air while serving as a fundraiser for Covid-19 relief.
The event, which will be streamed via Instagram Live,...
The DJ, producer and actor is the brainchild behind the “Break the Monotony Block Party,” an all-day virtual event happening May 9th, as part of the yearlong 30th anniversary celebrations for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air while serving as a fundraiser for Covid-19 relief.
The event, which will be streamed via Instagram Live,...
- 5/4/2020
- by Tim Chan
- Rollingstone.com
When Nelson George sat down to write about the state of R&b for The Village Voice in the late Eighties, two super-producers were frequently on his mind: Teddy Riley, who helped invent a vicious new fusion called New Jack Swing in New York City, and his rival Babyface, a melodic mastermind based at the time in Los Angeles (but about to decamp to Atlanta).
George was writing from New York, and he was initially high on Riley, a hometown hero, but lukewarm on Babyface’s “computer-chip production.” In 1989, however,...
George was writing from New York, and he was initially high on Riley, a hometown hero, but lukewarm on Babyface’s “computer-chip production.” In 1989, however,...
- 4/30/2020
- by Elias Leight
- Rollingstone.com
Teddy Riley has had one of the most impressive musical careers of anyone in the industry. Riley has been a part of countless hits as an artist, writer, and producer. He is also commonly credited with starting the New Jack Swing movement. Over the course of three decades, Riley has shown the world that his creativity knows no limits. Recently though, Riley’s name has been associated with something other than his hits. After some technical difficulties during an Instagram Live battle between Riley and fellow legend, Babyface, the blogs have been going crazy. While some fans may see Riley’s social
10 Things You Didn’t Know about Teddy Riley...
10 Things You Didn’t Know about Teddy Riley...
- 4/21/2020
- by Camille Moore
- TVovermind.com
Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds says he and his family tested positive for coronavirus, but they are now doing much better.
] The Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and producer shared the news Friday on Instagram as he celebrated his 62nd birthday. “I would like to warmly thank everyone for all the many birthday wishes today. I feel so blessed to be able to celebrate another birthday,” he began. “I tested positive for the Covid-19 virus, as did my family,” he wrote “It’s an incredibly scary thing to go through my friends.”
He urged fans to “stay home, stay safe.”
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] The Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and producer shared the news Friday on Instagram as he celebrated his 62nd birthday. “I would like to warmly thank everyone for all the many birthday wishes today. I feel so blessed to be able to celebrate another birthday,” he began. “I tested positive for the Covid-19 virus, as did my family,” he wrote “It’s an incredibly scary thing to go through my friends.”
He urged fans to “stay home, stay safe.”
View this post on Instagram
Stay Home, Stay Safe
A post shared by...
- 4/11/2020
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon is set to explore the strange phenomenon of Los Angeles hypebeast culture.
The streamer has issued a two-season order for “Fairfax,” an animated series which follows four middle school best friends on a never-ending quest for clout on L.A.’s titular Fairfax Avenue: the “pulsing heart of hypebeast culture.”
The series hails from creators Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum, and Teddy Riley, and is slated to premiere on Amazon in 2021. Serious Business and “Big Mouth” animation studio Titmouse are partnering with Amazon Studios on the show.
“This show is a love letter to kids today – the generation that will most definitely save the world from global warming, if they don’t die from eating Tide Pods first. It’s a modern look at the timeless struggle to be cooler than you are, to fit in while standing out, and what it feels like to wait in line for a...
The streamer has issued a two-season order for “Fairfax,” an animated series which follows four middle school best friends on a never-ending quest for clout on L.A.’s titular Fairfax Avenue: the “pulsing heart of hypebeast culture.”
The series hails from creators Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum, and Teddy Riley, and is slated to premiere on Amazon in 2021. Serious Business and “Big Mouth” animation studio Titmouse are partnering with Amazon Studios on the show.
“This show is a love letter to kids today – the generation that will most definitely save the world from global warming, if they don’t die from eating Tide Pods first. It’s a modern look at the timeless struggle to be cooler than you are, to fit in while standing out, and what it feels like to wait in line for a...
- 1/29/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Studios has given a two-season order to “Fairfax,” an animated comedy about L.A.’s hypebeast culture, the company announced on Wednesday.
Set to premiere in 2021, the series follows four middle school best friends on their “never-ending quest for clout on Fairfax Ave.,” according to Amazon. The streamer has picked up two eight-episode seasons.
Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley are creators and executive producers on the series, with Amazon Studios producing in association with “@midnight” producers Serious Business and animation studio Titmouse.
Also Read: Amazon Inks Overall Television Deal With Brad Pitt's Production Company, Plan B
Instagram artist Somehoodlum designed the characters for the series and serves as a consulting producer alongside L.A.-based “brand and idea laboratory” Pizzaslime.
“This show is a love letter to kids today – the generation that will most definitely save the world from global warming, if they don’t die from eating Tide Pods first,...
Set to premiere in 2021, the series follows four middle school best friends on their “never-ending quest for clout on Fairfax Ave.,” according to Amazon. The streamer has picked up two eight-episode seasons.
Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley are creators and executive producers on the series, with Amazon Studios producing in association with “@midnight” producers Serious Business and animation studio Titmouse.
Also Read: Amazon Inks Overall Television Deal With Brad Pitt's Production Company, Plan B
Instagram artist Somehoodlum designed the characters for the series and serves as a consulting producer alongside L.A.-based “brand and idea laboratory” Pizzaslime.
“This show is a love letter to kids today – the generation that will most definitely save the world from global warming, if they don’t die from eating Tide Pods first,...
- 1/29/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Amazon has given a two-season, 16-episode order to half-hour adult animated comedy Fairfax, from Matt Hausfater (Undateable), Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley, Serious Business, Titmouse and Amazon Studios. The series is slated to premiere on Amazon Prime Video in 2021 in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide.
Created and executive produced by Hausfater, Buchsbaum and Riley, Fairfax follows four middle school best friends on their never-ending quest for clout on Fairfax Avenue – La’s pulsing heart of hypebeast culture.
“This show is a love letter to kids today – the generation that will most definitely save the world from global warming, if they don’t die from eating Tide Pods first,” said Hausfater, Buchsbaum and Riley. “It’s a modern look at the timeless struggle to be cooler than you are, to fit in while standing out, and what it feels like to wait in line for a pair of sneakers you’re never going to cop.
Created and executive produced by Hausfater, Buchsbaum and Riley, Fairfax follows four middle school best friends on their never-ending quest for clout on Fairfax Avenue – La’s pulsing heart of hypebeast culture.
“This show is a love letter to kids today – the generation that will most definitely save the world from global warming, if they don’t die from eating Tide Pods first,” said Hausfater, Buchsbaum and Riley. “It’s a modern look at the timeless struggle to be cooler than you are, to fit in while standing out, and what it feels like to wait in line for a pair of sneakers you’re never going to cop.
- 1/29/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon is adding to its animation roster with a two-season order for an adult comedy from the studio behind Netflix's Big Mouth.
The tech giant's Prime Video streaming platform has ordered two eight-episode seasons of Fairfax, a series about four middle school best friends on a never-ending quest for clout along Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles' pulsing heart of hypebeast culture. Animation studio Titmouse (Big Mouth, Amazon's upcoming The Legend of Vox Machina) is producing along with Amazon Studios and Serious Business (@midnight); Matt Hausfater (Undateable), Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley created the show.
"Fairfax is smart, weird and hilarious,...
The tech giant's Prime Video streaming platform has ordered two eight-episode seasons of Fairfax, a series about four middle school best friends on a never-ending quest for clout along Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles' pulsing heart of hypebeast culture. Animation studio Titmouse (Big Mouth, Amazon's upcoming The Legend of Vox Machina) is producing along with Amazon Studios and Serious Business (@midnight); Matt Hausfater (Undateable), Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley created the show.
"Fairfax is smart, weird and hilarious,...
- 1/29/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, Starz has released a trailer for Season 5 of “Outlander,” and Amazon Prime Video announced casting for “The Power.”
Castings
WWE superstars Sasha Banks, Brie Bella, Nikki Bella, Alexa Bliss, Sonya Deville, Charlotte Flair, Nia Jax, Becky Lynch and Natalya have been cast as participants in Quibi and WWE’s upcoming series “Fight Like a Girl.” Each episode follows each female wrestler as she shares her life experiences with a young woman dealing with personal issues that are holding her back. WWE chief brand officer and executive producer of the series Stephanie McMahon will decide the pairings. Susan Levison, Ben Zierten, Tom Forman, Jenny Daly and Jon Beyer also serve as executive producers.
Amazon Prime Video has announced further casting for its forthcoming series, “The Power.” Adapted from Naomi Alderman‘s novel of the same name, the 10-part thriller imagines a world in which all...
Castings
WWE superstars Sasha Banks, Brie Bella, Nikki Bella, Alexa Bliss, Sonya Deville, Charlotte Flair, Nia Jax, Becky Lynch and Natalya have been cast as participants in Quibi and WWE’s upcoming series “Fight Like a Girl.” Each episode follows each female wrestler as she shares her life experiences with a young woman dealing with personal issues that are holding her back. WWE chief brand officer and executive producer of the series Stephanie McMahon will decide the pairings. Susan Levison, Ben Zierten, Tom Forman, Jenny Daly and Jon Beyer also serve as executive producers.
Amazon Prime Video has announced further casting for its forthcoming series, “The Power.” Adapted from Naomi Alderman‘s novel of the same name, the 10-part thriller imagines a world in which all...
- 1/15/2020
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Bet is exploring the story behind Andre Harrell’s iconic hip-hop record label, Uptown Records.
The network has ordered a three-part miniseries titled “Uptown,” with Harrell on board to executive produce. The series is scheduled to hit the airwaves in 2020.
Launched in 1986, following a joint venture deal with McA, Uptown Records played a key role in launching the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip-hop and R&b, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father Mc, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean “Diddy” Combs, and others.
Each episode of “Uptown” will take viewers from the label’s inception to current day, featuring the music and hit-makers that helped mold the label.
“We are proud to bring the story of Uptown Records to life and celebrate the indelible imprint the label has made on the industry,...
The network has ordered a three-part miniseries titled “Uptown,” with Harrell on board to executive produce. The series is scheduled to hit the airwaves in 2020.
Launched in 1986, following a joint venture deal with McA, Uptown Records played a key role in launching the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip-hop and R&b, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father Mc, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean “Diddy” Combs, and others.
Each episode of “Uptown” will take viewers from the label’s inception to current day, featuring the music and hit-makers that helped mold the label.
“We are proud to bring the story of Uptown Records to life and celebrate the indelible imprint the label has made on the industry,...
- 12/4/2019
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Bet Networks has given a green light to Uptown, a three-part original scripted miniseries that will chronicle the story of Andre Harrell’s iconic New York City record label, Uptown Records, from Harrell and Jesse Collins Entertainment. Uptown is scheduled to premiere on Bet in 2020.
Launched in 1986, following a joint venture deal with McA, Harrell’s Uptown Records played a vital role in the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip hop, soul and R&b, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father Mc, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean “Diddy” Combs, and many more. Each episode will take viewers from the label’s inception to current day, featuring the music and powerhouse hit-makers that helped mold what would come to be...
Launched in 1986, following a joint venture deal with McA, Harrell’s Uptown Records played a vital role in the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip hop, soul and R&b, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father Mc, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean “Diddy” Combs, and many more. Each episode will take viewers from the label’s inception to current day, featuring the music and powerhouse hit-makers that helped mold what would come to be...
- 12/4/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Bet has ordered a three-part scripted series about the famed record label Uptown Records, the network announced Wednesday.
Launched in 1986, Andre Harrell’s Uptown Records played a vital role in the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip hop, soul and R&b, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father Mc, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean “Diddy” Combs and more.
“Uptown,” which will be executive produced by Harrell and Jesse Collins, will span the label’s inception to current day, featuring the music and hit-makers that defined its success and the sound of the era.
Also Read: 'First Wives Club' Star Ryan Michelle Bathe on Getting 'Hot as Fish Grease' for Bet+ Series (Video)
Charles Murray, Carlito Rodriguez and Barry Michael Cooper each serve as writer on one of the three parts of the miniseries,...
Launched in 1986, Andre Harrell’s Uptown Records played a vital role in the careers of some of the most influential voices in hip hop, soul and R&b, including Heavy D & The Boyz, Russell Simmons, Lyor Cohen, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Father Mc, Al B. Sure, Christopher Williams, Teddy Riley, Notorious B.I.G., Sean “Diddy” Combs and more.
“Uptown,” which will be executive produced by Harrell and Jesse Collins, will span the label’s inception to current day, featuring the music and hit-makers that defined its success and the sound of the era.
Also Read: 'First Wives Club' Star Ryan Michelle Bathe on Getting 'Hot as Fish Grease' for Bet+ Series (Video)
Charles Murray, Carlito Rodriguez and Barry Michael Cooper each serve as writer on one of the three parts of the miniseries,...
- 12/4/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Aspiring producers often aim for the home-run placement — getting a beat to Rihanna or Kanye West in the hopes that a star’s blessing will change their circumstances overnight.
The producer Bizness Boi, known for his work with R&b singers and a smattering of rappers, takes a very different approach — emphasizing the slow build, rather than flaring brightly but briefly. “You can get something with Rihanna, but you might have that one record and that’s it,” he explains. “As a producer, you have to either have your own...
The producer Bizness Boi, known for his work with R&b singers and a smattering of rappers, takes a very different approach — emphasizing the slow build, rather than flaring brightly but briefly. “You can get something with Rihanna, but you might have that one record and that’s it,” he explains. “As a producer, you have to either have your own...
- 7/2/2019
- by Elias Leight
- Rollingstone.com
A former rock & roll drummer, Garrett T. Capps kickstarted a solo career as a left-field country singer while living in the Texas Hill Country. His songs approach the country tradition from unexpected directions, making room for Hawaiian lap steel, modular synthesizer and arty arrangements along the way. Capps calls it “Nasa country.” Spacey and soundscape-influenced, his music takes center stage on the newest installment of Walking the Floor, where host Chris Shiflett champions his Capps’ sound as “spooky cosmic country” that “makes you wanna break furniture.”
Below, we break down...
Below, we break down...
- 2/25/2019
- by Robert Crawford
- Rollingstone.com
The Jan. 3 debut of the Lifetime docuseries “Surviving R. Kelly” dealt a swift blow to R. Kelly’s career. One week after the premiere of the incendiary exposé covering longstanding sexual abuse allegations against him and uncovering new ones, Lady Gaga cemented his persona non grata status by joining Team #MuteRKelly.
Gaga apologized for working with him and vowed to remove their 2013 duet “Do What U Want” from streaming services, a move Celine Dion also made four days later with “I’m Your Angel,” her 1998 collaboration with Kelly. So what do we do now with arguably the biggest R. Kelly superstar summit of all: “You Are Not Alone,” the 1995 number-one single he wrote and co-produced for Michael Jackson?
The “Thriller” icon, who died in 2009 at age 50, could be on the verge of becoming the next cancelled superstar of 2019 following the Sundance premiere of another legacy-mangling documentary/exposé about a music legend.
Gaga apologized for working with him and vowed to remove their 2013 duet “Do What U Want” from streaming services, a move Celine Dion also made four days later with “I’m Your Angel,” her 1998 collaboration with Kelly. So what do we do now with arguably the biggest R. Kelly superstar summit of all: “You Are Not Alone,” the 1995 number-one single he wrote and co-produced for Michael Jackson?
The “Thriller” icon, who died in 2009 at age 50, could be on the verge of becoming the next cancelled superstar of 2019 following the Sundance premiere of another legacy-mangling documentary/exposé about a music legend.
- 1/30/2019
- by Jeremy Helligar
- Variety Film + TV
The night before most singers put out an album, tradition dictates that they spend some time promoting their new work. Music is a business, after all, and listeners can’t stream or buy your songs if they don’t know that those songs exist.
It would be generous to say that the R&B veteran Keith Sweat looks on that promotional tradition with blithe indifference. “They keep telling me to sing something from the new shit,” he complained during his album release show at the iHeartRadio Theater in downtown Manhattan last Thursday.
It would be generous to say that the R&B veteran Keith Sweat looks on that promotional tradition with blithe indifference. “They keep telling me to sing something from the new shit,” he complained during his album release show at the iHeartRadio Theater in downtown Manhattan last Thursday.
- 10/29/2018
- by Elias Leight
- Rollingstone.com
Bobby Brown hits back against unnamed detractors on “Like Bobby,” his first new song since 2012.
“Like Bobby” starts out sounding like an early 2000s hit from the rapper Mystikal, full of growly energy that morphs to take into account modern pop trends. When Brown rap-sings over a brassy trap beat, he sounds defiant: “Everybody gonna talk about it, talk about it/ And I don’t really give a fuck about it, fuck about it/ ‘Cause in the end I gotta be real like Bobby B.”
To make “Like Bobby,” Brown...
“Like Bobby” starts out sounding like an early 2000s hit from the rapper Mystikal, full of growly energy that morphs to take into account modern pop trends. When Brown rap-sings over a brassy trap beat, he sounds defiant: “Everybody gonna talk about it, talk about it/ And I don’t really give a fuck about it, fuck about it/ ‘Cause in the end I gotta be real like Bobby B.”
To make “Like Bobby,” Brown...
- 9/11/2018
- by Elias Leight
- Rollingstone.com
Teddy Riley is a well-known name in the music world if you listen to hip hop, new jack swing or R&B. Since 1984, he has worked with a long list of celebrities as a record producer, singer-songwriter, instrumentalist and performer. Born Edward Theodore Riley in 1967, the 50-year-old has had an amazing career thus far. He was born in New York in Harlem and his musical talent came through when he was just a young child. Riley’s past portfolio includes some famous names, including Michael Jackson, Usher, Blackstreet, Lady Gaga, and Melanic C from the Spice Girls. His name surfaced […]
The post Teddy Riley: Everything you need to know about producer on The Bobby Brown Story appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
The post Teddy Riley: Everything you need to know about producer on The Bobby Brown Story appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
- 9/5/2018
- by Mary Jane
- Monsters and Critics
30 years later, 1988 still stands as rap’s greatest year. The lyrical molotovs of ‘Nation of Millions’ and ‘Straight Out of Compton,’ the post-modern (and pre-lawsuit) free-for-all of sampling, the national spotlight of a new show called Yo! MTV Raps and much more. To celebrate 30 years, Rolling Stone’s Best of ’88 explores the 10 greatest songs from those explosive 12 months.
Released in the summer of 1988, “It Takes Two” – by Harlem duo Rob Base and DJ E-z Rock – would have an impact on hip-hop, dance music and pop for decades. Borrowing a giddy...
Released in the summer of 1988, “It Takes Two” – by Harlem duo Rob Base and DJ E-z Rock – would have an impact on hip-hop, dance music and pop for decades. Borrowing a giddy...
- 7/20/2018
- by Christopher Weingarten
- Rollingstone.com
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