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LISTEN LIVE

Norah Jones Live Webcast on Letterman
May 2, 2012 - Norah Jones is set to appear with a Live-on-Letterman webcast, featuring Jones from the prestigious Ed Sullivan Theater in New York, tonight - Wednesday, May 2nd at 8:00 ET. This is a clever, strategic move for Jones to push her next album “Little Broken Hearts” set for a May 1st release. MORE

Elton John Sued Over Allegedly Stealing "Nikita" Lyrics
April 27, 2012- It’s been said that some things in life may come back to haunt you and in this case, Elton John is being accused of stealing lyrics for a hit single he released back in 1985. MORE

REVIEW - Esperanza Spalding – Radio Music Society (4 out of 5 Stars) – Heads Up – Concord Music Group
April 4, 2012 – Esperanza Spalding is a groovy chick. I mean, really, when she’s in the room, everyone else disappears and I’m talkin’ more than that big “love-sculpture” hair. She’s the type of musician you might walk up to at a party, ask about her music, and walk away three hours later regretting the question. This lady has a vision so you better have a seat. MORE

 

Pink Floyd Set to Release ‘Making of 'Wish You Were Here' on DVD
April 3, 2012 – Great news for Pink Floyd fans. After a slew of re-releases last year there’s more to come with the DVD documentary on the making of another classic album, ‘Wish You Were Here.’

Set for June 26th release, the DVD will feature brand new interviews with surviving members David Gilmour, Roger Waters and Nick Mason as well as archival chats with Richard Wright, who died of cancer in 2008 at the age of 65. MORE

 

KISS Supports War Veterans Looking For Roadie
April 1, 2012- The band KISS is touring with Motley Crue this summer and they want to hire a veteran to hang out with the band on the road.  KISS is participating in a program called "Hiring Our Heroes."  They are looking for a strong hand that can help in setting up the stage, running effects and breaking it all down.  MORE

Toto’s Steve Lukather Set to Join Ringo Starr's 13th All Starr Band Tour
February 10, 2012 – It’s no secret that Steve Lukather, like many of us, is a huge Beatles fan. It was announced this week that the Toto guitarist and founding member will join Ringo for the famous tour to begin in Niagara Falls Ontario on June 14th. MORE

REVIEW – Van Halen – A Different Kind of Truth (***3 out of 5)
February 7, 2012 – Unwrapping this one might bring back Christmas-past memories of a re-gifting faux pas. As they say it must be a great gift if they are giving it back to you? Sure, you will feel a certain déjà vu with the new Van Halen album, “A Different Kind of Truth.” That classic sound is certainly there. The problem? MORE

It’s “Van Halen Day” on Rock History Book – Check out the New Album Today – CLICK TO LISTEN
February 6, 2012 – It’s safe to say that Rock History Book Radio has tons of Van Halen fans listening everyday and it was a no-brainer to pronounce, today, “Van Halen Day!” All day hosts John Beaudin and Shannon Edwards will feature two tracks, every hour, from the new Van Halen album, “A Different Kind of Truth.” MORE

Norah Jones to Release New Album in Spring
Jan 31, 2012 - Good news for all the Norah Jones fans out there! The singer is set to release a new album in spring called 'Little Broken Hearts.' This will be Jones' fifth studio CD and she will be joined by producer and musician, Danger Mouse who is notably the backbone for the project. He also co-wrote many of the tunes with her. MORE

Springsteen to Release "Wrecking Ball" in March
Jan 24, 2012 - Bruce Springsteen is full speed ahead with his new album due out in March. “Wrecking Ball” will be his 17th studio album and is produced by heavy hitter Ron Aniello (Patti Scialfa, Jars of Clay) and talent thrown in from Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machines) and members of the E Street Band. MORE

Paul McCartney to Perform at Grammy’s
January 24, 2012 - It’s a done deal as Paul has announced (via his website) that he will be preforming at the 54th annual Grammy Awards in L.A. on Feb 12. This is also a very special occasion for him as he’s nominated this year for Best Historical Album for "Band On The Run." McCartney is definitely no stranger to the stage and if he pulls this one in it will be his 15th Grammy win in all. MORE

John Mayer Introduces New Custom Guitar
January 23, 2012 - John Mayer has been out of the spotlight since he cancelled numerous gigs last year to undergo throat surgery. His decision to finally go under the knife was necessary after attempts to rest his voice did not help. In the meantime, John had to regroup and push back the release of his new album. MORE

Etta James Dies at the Age 73
Jan 20, 2012 - Etta James, an iconic R&B American singer known for her classic songs “ At Last” and “Something’s Got A Hold Of Me” has died today at the age of 73. MORE

Steven Tyler and Finding Mrs. Right!
January 19, 2012 - Steven Tyler of Aerosmith never ceases to amaze me. He sat in on an Ellen DeGeneres show recently and proceeded to explain why he decided over the Christmas holidays to marry girlfriend Erin Brady. MORE

Steven Tyler on New Album in the Making
January 14, 2011 - Aerosmith fans will be watching as Steven Tyler is about to get really comfortable in his seat for his second round of American Idol. Ever since he joined the panel for this vocal talent show last season Tyler says sales of Aerosmith’s back catalog has rose 260 percent. We all know he has much to talk about when it comes to American Idol, but let’s get back to your roots Steven! MORE

NEW INTERVIEWS

RETRO - INTERVIEWS - Dan Peek of America
July 26, 2011 - Although Dan Peek left the group America in 1977 he is certainly not forgotten as a member of the famous band. Peek passed away on July 24 of undisclosed causes. He was 60. The singer’s site simply states, “Dan went to Heaven on July 24 2011” and features a video of Peek performing his
America hit “Lonely People. MORE

Classic Interview with the Late Great Jim Clench of April Wine and BTO
November 8, 2010 – When I heard that Jim Clench had passed away I immediately went to my basement to find one of my favourite April Wine albums, “Electric Jewels.” More than any other LP from the group, this one really showcased his talents at such an important time in their incarnation. More

NEW REVIEWS

REVIEW - Esperanza Spalding – Radio Music Society (4 out of 5 Stars) – Heads Up – Concord Music Group
April 4, 2012 – Esperanza Spalding is a groovy chick. I mean, really, when she’s in the room, everyone else disappears and I’m talkin’ more than that big “love-sculpture” hair. She’s the type of musician you might walk up to at a party, ask about her music, and walk away three hours later regretting the question. This lady has a vision so you better have a seat. MORE

 

REVIEW – Van Halen – A Different Kind of Truth (***3 out of 5)
February 7, 2012 – Unwrapping this one might bring back Christmas-past memories of a re-gifting faux pas. As they say it must be a great gift if they are giving it back to you? Sure, you will feel a certain déjà vu with the new Van Halen album, “A Different Kind of Truth.” That classic sound is certainly there. The problem? MORE

 

REVIEW: Colbie Caillat – All of You - Universal Republic
Sept, 2011 – On her third album Colbie Caillat has decided to strategically give us an uptempo summer-vibe. It still sounds like her smash debut “Coco” but this time it’s Colbie with caffeine and it’s positive and fun. MORE

It's Hard to Imagine a Better Outcome
REVIEW - Elton John & Leon Russell – The Union – Decca Records

October 31, 2010 – This project started after Elton John just happened to mention his chief influences on “Spectacle,” a TV program hosted by Elvis Costello and produced by him and partner David Furnish. MORE

 

A Disappointing Return for Sade
REVIEW - Sade – Soldier of Love
June 16, 2010 – There’s always been an understated value to everything that Sade does and sameness to her entire repertoire. That quality of old wine has served the singer/band well… until now. Unlike Norah Jones who has, at least, tried to mix-up-the-pot, Sade really needs to stop wearing the same dress to every party. MORE

BIRTHDAYS (Click here for the full list)
BIRTHDAYS


May 1: Ray Parker, Jr. (1954)
May 1: Rita Coolidge (1945)
May 1: Judy Collins (1939)
May 2: Lou Gramm (Foreigner) (1950)
May 2: Lesley Gore (1946)
May 3: Steve Jones (1945)
May 3: Christopher Cross (1951)
May 3: Frankie Valli (1937)
May 3: Engelbert Humperdink (1936)
May 3: James Brown (1933)
May 4: Lance Bass ('N Sync) (1979)
May 4: Jackie Jackson (The Jacksons) (1951)
May 4: Nick Ashford (Ashford & Simpson) (1942)
May 5: Bill Ward (Black Sabbath) (1948)
May 6: Bob Seger (1945)
May 6: Colin Earl (Foghat) (1942)
May 7: Eagle-Eye Cherry (1972)
May 7: Bill Kreutzmann (Grateful Dead) (1946)
May 8: Darren Hayes (Savage Garden) (1972)
May 8: Alex Van Halen (Van Halen) (1955)
May 8: Philip Bailey (Earth, Wind & Fire) (1951)
May 8: Toni Tennille (Captain & Tennille) (1943)
May 9: Billy Joel (1949)
May 10: Krist Novoselic (Nirvana) (1965)
May 10: Bono (aka Paul Hewson) (U2) (1960)
May 10: Donovan (1946)
May 10: Dave Mason (1946)
May 11: Eric Burdon (Animals) (1941)
May 12: Billy Squier (1950)
May 12: Steve Winwood (1948)
May 12: Burt Bacharach (1928)
May 13: Darius Rucker (Hootie & The Blowfish) (1966)
May 13: Stevie Wonder (1950)
May 14: Mike Inez (Alice In Chains) (1966)
May 14: Ian Astbury (The Cult) (1962)
May 14: David Byrne (Talking Heads) (1952)
May 14: Jake Bruce (Cream) (1943)
May 15: Mike Oldfield (1953)
May 15: Dennis Fredericksen (Toto) (1951)
May 15: Brian Eno (1948)
May 15: Graham Goble (Little River Band) (1944)
May 16: Janet Jackson (1966)
May 16: William Spooner (Grateful Dead) (1949)
May 17: Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails) (1965)
May 17: Enya (1961)
May 17: Bill Bruford (Yes) (1949)
May 18: Rick Wakeman (Yes) (1949)
May 19: Dusty Hill (ZZ Top) (1949)
May 19: Pete Townshend (1945)
May 20: Jane Wiedlin (The Go-Go's) (1958)
May 20: Cher (1946)
May 20: Joe Cocker (1944)
May 21: Leo Sayer (1948)
May 21: Bill Champlin (Chicago) (1947)
May 22: Morrissey (1959)
May 22: Bernie Taupin (1950)
May 23: Jewel (1974)
May 24: Patti LaBelle (1944)
May 24: Bob Dylan (1941)
May 25: Lauryn Hill (1975)
May 26: Lenny Kravitz (1964)
May 26: Hank Williams, Jr. (1949)
May 26: Stevie Nicks (1948)
May 26: Levon Helm (The Band) (1942)
May 27: Neil Finn (Crowded House) (1958)
May 27: Siouxsie Sioux (Siouxsie & The Banshees) (1957)
May 27: Bruce Cockburn (1945)
May 28: Kylie Minogue (1968)
May 28: John Fogerty (1945)
May 28: Gladys Knight (1944)
May 28: Billy Vera (1944)
May 29: Noel Gallagher (Oasis) (1967)
May 29: Melissa Etheridge (1961)
May 29: Jesse Johnson (The Time) (1960)
May 29: Gary Brooker (Procul Harum) (1945)
May 30: Nicky Headon (The Clash) (1955)
May 31: Corey Hart (1962)



Click here for the full list
 

Carlos Santana Invests in Tequila
July 20, 2010 – Looks like Carlos Santana loves Tequila. The famous guitarist has just invested in Casa Noble Tequila. Santana says, "We have come together because I love the Tequila, Passion, dedication and integrity is what attracted me to Casa Noble Tequila. I feel at home with my new family at Casa Noble. They strive for excellence and don't take shortcuts. Just like the music of Santana, one note or one drop. they are the same thing. You have to feel each note from your heart. Casa Noble and my family have the same origin--- Jalisco, Mexico. My family roots date back to the 1700's in Jalisco. My father is a Huichol Indian. When I visited the distillery, I immediately felt spiritually connected to the Hermosillo family and Casa Noble. Together we celebrate the gift of life and all of the blessings that come with it. Together we can all make a difference in the world."

"Santana's love for the spirit of Casa Noble and his commitment to this new partnership is exciting for everyone involved with our brand," says Casa Noble CEO Jose Hermosillo. "Santana's personal philosophy of quality and integrity in the pursuit of perfection is synonymous with the Casa Noble brand of fine ultra premium Tequilas.'

'The linkage between Casa Noble & Carlos Santana will create broader recognition that Casa Noble's triple distilled, organically certified tequila is truly one of the finest ultra premium spirits' says Hermosillo. "We have been exploring this partnership for some time. This is a natural synergy; Casa Noble Tequila is deeply rooted in the pursuit of quality, craftsmanship and tradition. Santana through his life and his music has dedicated himself to those same values which are the key motivators behind this alignment.' – by John Beaudin
 

Sting Happy to Meditate with Carlos Santana
June 7, 2010 – Both Sting and Carlos Santana performed at last month Mawazine Festival in Morocco and it was what happened behind the scenes that brought a little kumbaya to the world presses. The pair had a chance to meditate together.

Sting said, "He's [Santana] a very serious man a very spiritual man. I sat with him before his show and we all meditated together and prayed that the concert would be a good one and that the people would enjoy the date and understand the message that he was trying to give would be received."

Both are known for their deep spiritual practices. Who could forget Sting’s famous Police chant, “We are spirits in the material world” and his tireless “giving back” via charity concerts and leadership to make the world a better place.

Santana’s spirituality goes back to his early life. In 1972, after becoming a huge fan of John McLaughlin’s Mahavishnu Orchestra, McLaughlin introduced him to his guru, Sri Chinmoy. Chinmoy accepted them as disciples in 1973. – by John Beaudin

Famous Woodstock Festival Re-release Packed with Never Before Seen Footage
May 3, 2009 – It’s been called the single most important music festival in history and for good reason. For 4 days (Friday, Aug. 15 – Monday Aug 18) in 1969 some of the top acts in music spread a little love, joy and song to create the Woodstock Music and Art Fair.

The event was well chronicled in a 1970 Oscar winning documentary and now comes the ultimate version of that film, Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace & Music" – the four-hour director’s cut with tons of extras, will be released on June 9th.

The limited, numbered Blu-ray and DVD Ultimate Collector’s Edition (UCE) will serve as the ultimate look back at the 31 artists that took the main stage in front of 450, 000 fans in Max Yasgur's 600 acre dairy farm in the rural town of Bethel, New York.

This new version will have over two extra hours of performance footage, some never seen before including 18 new performances from Joan Baez, Country Joe McDonald, Santana, The Who, Jefferson Airplane, Canned Heat, Joe Cocker , Creedence Clearwater Revival and The Grateful Dead.

Director Michael Wadleigh said, “Based on the vast e-mails and calls I’ve received, many from young people, it’s very evident that people still relate so much to the film and view the ‘60s as an age when anything and everything was possible, mostly good. Many hope for a new Woodstock generation since what people loved back then was spontaneity, originality, innocence and honesty - even in superstars; that’s why Woodstock, with its open and natural philosophy, has become timeless.”

The UCE includes another hour of bonus material including a featurette with interviews from Martin Scorsese, producer Michael Lang, director Michael Wadleigh, Hugh Hefner, Eddie Kramer plus some rare backstage clips. – by John Beaudin