MTV News |
- 'We Are The World: 25 For Haiti' Video Premieres During Olympics Opening Ceremony
- 'We Are The World' Soloists Lil Wayne, Pink Take Cues From The Original
- 'We Are The World: 25 For Haiti' Unites Music's Biggest Names
- John Mayer Moves On From <i>Playboy</i> Interview At Detroit Show
- Kris Allen, Adam Lambert And Allison Iraheta Reunite Onstage In NYC
- 'We Are The World' Director Celebrates Premiere With Haitian Film Students
- John Mayer's <i>Playboy</i> Interview: Readers Weigh In
- How Can You Avoid Sexting Dangers?
- Adam Lambert, Kris Allen, Allison Iraheta Talk Reuniting For NYC Show
- Beyonce, Lady Gaga Are 'Magical' In 'Telephone' Video, Semi Precious Weapons Say
| 'We Are The World: 25 For Haiti' Video Premieres During Olympics Opening Ceremony Posted: 12 Feb 2010 07:07 AM PST Extended version of song and video are available now on iTunes.
The video of "We Are the World: 25 for Haiti" premiered Friday night (February 12) during the opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The new incarnation of the 1985 song sticks closely to the arrangement of the original, but the cast is much larger and, of course, much more contemporary.
On television, the song was introduced by a message from original "We Are the World" principals Lionel Richie and Quincy Jones, who urged viewers to contribute via World25.org, iTunes or by texting "World" to 50555. A tightly edited version of the video was aired on Friday night, but the long version is available now on iTunes. That version is introduced by Jamie Foxx, who sets the scene, talking about the original recording and then the new version, the video of which was directed by "Crash" director Paul Haggis. "Do more than just watch," Foxx says. "Whatever you have, no matter how big or how small, it all counts." The video features footage from the song's recording session intercut with scenes of rebuilding efforts in Haiti. Justin Bieber opens, singing Lionel Richie's verse from the original, and is quickly followed by Nicole Scherzinger and Jennifer Hudson singing together, then Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles, Josh Groban, and then footage of Michael Jackson from the original recording superimposed with sister Janet duetting on the first verse of the chorus. Barbra Streisand, Fergie, a wailing Celine Dion and others follow. Miley Cyrus, Enrique Iglesias, Foxx, Maroon 5's Adam Levine, Pink, Mary J. Blige, Akon, T-Pain and others take verses later in the song; a second verse from a recording of Michael Jackson is immediately followed by Usher. Carlos Santana and Orianthi are seen playing guitars; Richie and Jones are often visible, smiling on the sidelines. The most remarkable moments come from the rappers: an Auto-Tuned Lil Wayne sings Bob Dylan's verse, Wyclef adds some Haitian flavor, and Will.I.Am and Kanye West both rap verses. "Like Katrina, Africa and Indonesia/ Haiti needs us," Will.I.Am raps. LL Cool J, Will.I.Am, Swizz Beatz, Snoop Dogg and Busta Rhymes team up for a rapped section; Bizzy Bone, Kid Cudi, Drake and Nipsey Hussle were also at the session. The music drops out toward the end to let the chorus sing alone. Along with the studio footage, we see Haitian children dancing amid the destruction. Tellingly, the Haiti footage focuses on rebuilding efforts. Haggis talked with MTV News about the session earlier this week. "You hear these stories about people checking their egos at the door, and it really is true," he said. "They came and stood forever and were glorified extras a lot of the time. They just stood in the corner and waved." What do you think of "We Are the World: 25 for Haiti"? Does it stand up to the original? Is it better with rappers? Who has the best verse? Let us know in the comments below! Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Visit HopeForHaitiNow.org or call (877) 99-HAITI to make a donation now. Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists |
| 'We Are The World' Soloists Lil Wayne, Pink Take Cues From The Original Posted: 13 Feb 2010 09:19 AM PST For the Haiti-benefiting remake, Mary J. Blige channels Tina Turner and Celine Dion includes a Cyndi Lauper-esque vocal run.
"We Are the World" and its Haiti-benefiting remake both brought a galaxy of pop stars under one roof for charity. Put the two songs side by side, and you can see why certain singers were offered verses that were originally laid down by some of the 1980s' most prominent musicians. The most talked-about torch-passing in the days leading up to the song's release was Lil Wayne being given a verse originally ad-libbed by rock icon Bob Dylan. Wayne and Dylan's voices share a distinctly buzzy quality, although in the finished product Weezy's delivery was smoothed over by Auto-Tune and backed by Carlos Santana's furious guitar playing.
But from the first verse — in which Justin Bieber takes over for "We Are the World" co-writer Lionel Richie to sing "There comes a time/ When we heed a certain call" — to the song's ending, in which Wyclef Jean toasts Haiti over the song's chorus fading out, there are other notable vocal parallels. Jennifer Hudson more than ably performed a verse originally sung by Stevie Wonder; Pink, singing a line originally taken on by former Journey lead singer Steve Perry, played up the rock elements of her gritty voice; and Mary J. Blige paid tribute to pioneering R&B singer Tina Turner with her take on Turner's 1985 performance. The big-voiced Celine Dion was given a verse originally wailed by outlandish pop star Cyndi Lauper, who ad-libbed an octave-leaping "whoa, whoa, whoa" in the lead-in to her verse, and Dion paid dutiful homage to that iconic vocal run. Barbra Streisand stepped in for a fellow diva, Diana Ross, on the lines "There's a choice we're making/ We're saving our own lives/ It's true we'll make a better day, just you and me." And Miley Cyrus sang a line originally performed by Dionne Warwick with pitch-perfect inflection. Two singers paid homage to vocalists who appeared on the 1985 version of the track: Adam Levine used his verse to channel Stevie Wonder (Levine's verse was performed originally by pop/rock singer Kenny Loggins), and Jamie Foxx re-created some of the ad-libs performed by soul pioneer Ray Charles. That's nothing new for Foxx, since he won an Oscar for his portrayal of the pianist/singer in the 2004 film "Ray." Finally, the late Michael Jackson's vocal contributions to "We Are the World" remained intact, with his sister Janet singing along to the tracks he laid down for the song's original release. Jackson co-wrote the song with Richie in 1985. Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Visit HopeForHaitiNow.org or call (877) 99-HAITI to make a donation now. Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists |
| 'We Are The World: 25 For Haiti' Unites Music's Biggest Names Posted: 12 Feb 2010 08:16 AM PST Wyclef Jean, RedOne and Quincy Jones give the 25-year-old charity song a new feel.
In 1985, Justin Bieber was nine years from being born, Auto-Tune was 12 years from being invented, and Lil Wayne turned 3. Yet all three are prominent on "We Are the World: 25 For Haiti," a remake of the 1985 charity single that will benefit relief efforts in earthquake-stricken Haiti. The updated version of "We Are the World" not only has a completely different cast than its predecessor — only the late Michael Jackson remains, with his sister Janet singing along to his vocal tracks from the original — its sound is very current, with Auto-Tune flavoring many of the singers' voices and hip-hop verses being added to the proceedings. Lady Gaga producer RedOne and Haitian native Wyclef Jean assisted original "We Are the World" producer Quincy Jones on production duties.
The song opens with Bieber, who steps in for "We Are the World" co-writer Lionel Richie. From there, Nicole Scherzinger and Jennifer Hudson harmonize, and Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland drops in. Despite the different faces, the overall feel is similar to the original's, with Hudson turning in a powerhouse performance on verses originally performed by Stevie Wonder. It's on the second repetition of the chorus when the song begins to take on a life of its own, with Wyclef singing the song's title as translated into Creole, which is one of Haiti's official languages. From there, Maroon 5's Adam Levine channels Stevie Wonder. The Wonder similarities are only underscored by another Michael Jackson appearance, whose bridge, when he sings, "When you're down and out, and there seems no hope at all," remains intact. The chorus of singers and actors then gets soft, with ad-libbed verses by Scherzinger, Nick Jonas, Melanie Fiona, Tony Bennett and the Fray's Isaac Slade recalling the verses provided by the likes of Bruce Springsteen and James Ingram in 1985. And then Lil Wayne reprises Bob Dylan's verse, with Carlos Santana furiously playing guitar behind him. In addition to Santana, Australian guitarist Orianthi lends her riffing skills to the track. Pink, Akon and T-Pain add ad-libs as well, and then another callback to 1985 swoops in as Foxx channels the late Ray Charles, who was at the session 25 years ago. Foxx won the 2004 Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Charles in the film "Ray." Hip-hop is a defining part of the pop landscape in 2010, and the new "We Are the World" reflects that. A Will.I.Am-penned verse is performed by a host of rappers, including LL Cool J, Busta Rhymes, and Kanye West. Will and Kanye also have solo turns on the song, with each adding brief freestyles. The song ends with Wyclef emotionally toasting his homeland. An abbreviated version of the Paul Haggis-directed "We Are The World: 25 For Haiti" video premiered during the Winter Olympics broadcast on NBC, but the full, almost-seven-minute version of the song is available for purchase on iTunes, and the official We Are The World YouTube channel is streaming the video. The full video will air on television around the world on Saturday. What do you think of "We Are the World: 25 for Haiti"? Does it stand up to the original? Is it better with rappers? Who has the best verse? Let us know in the comments below! Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Visit HopeForHaitiNow.org or call (877) 99-HAITI to make a donation now. Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists |
| John Mayer Moves On From <i>Playboy</i> Interview At Detroit Show Posted: 12 Feb 2010 10:27 PM PST Singer talks to the crowd a lot during two-hour concert, but makes no mention of his recent controversial comments.
AUBURN HILLS, Michigan — Those who feared John Mayer would zip his lip and let his guitar do the talking in the wake of Playboy-gate needn't have worried. During Mayer's Battle Studies Tour stop Friday night (February 12) at the Palace of Auburn Hills in suburban Detroit, the embattled singer talked — and talked and talked — from the stage, but not about Jessica "Sexual Napalm" Simpson, his affinity for pornography or the racist and homosexual slurs in the Playboy interview that landed him in hot water earlier this week. Instead, Mayer mused about VH1 Classic, the 1970s and Sylvester Stallone — namely "Over the Top," 1987's Stallone-starring arm-wrestling epic. "Me taking off my jacket, you understand, is sort of like Sylvester Stallone turning his hat around in 'Over the Top,' " Mayer told the crowd of 12,000, after removing the black jacket he wore during the first couple of songs of Friday's show. "You know, like Sylvester Stallone says in 'Over the Top,' one movie in a giant string of arm-wrestling movies. That's when you know Hollywood was flush with cash. Somebody walked in and said, 'I got an idea, you take Stallone ... ' they're like, 'Sold. Wait, hold on, what's he doing?' 'He's arm wrestling.' 'Double sold. Let's do it.' " The off-the-cuff riff felt like Mayer trying out new stand-up material, as he wondered aloud if anyone actually uttered the words "Over the Top" in the film. Basically, he seemed like he was back to his jokey, irreverent self, and he let his onstage apology in Nashville on Wednesday — and his tweeted apologies the same day — speak for themselves. Mayer, backed by his five-piece band and two backup singers, opened the two-hour concert with "Heartbreak Warfare," his current single, and continued through a host of material from Battle Studies and his previous efforts. Covers of Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer" and the Police's "Message in a Bottle" were added into the mix, and a mid-show run-through of his very first single, "No Such Thing," was performed acoustically — "How I used to play it at coffee shops," he said. If so desired, plenty could be read into the video screens behind Mayer that projected a blazing wall of fire or lyrics such as "I'll come through, like I do when the world keeps testing me, testing me, testing me" (from "Vultures"). But through his lighthearted stage banter and sincere thank-yous to the crowd for spending their Friday evening with him, he seemed doggedly determined to move forward from the controversy. Kara Dubay of Rochester Hills, Michigan, didn't mind spending her Friday with Mayer and wasn't concerned about his comments from the Playboy interview. "I don't care what he does in his personal life, really," the 19-year-old college student said. "I like him for his music, so I don't think [his personal life] is anyone's business." David Trierweiler of Grand Rapids, Michigan, said he thought Mayer's comments in the Playboy article were lost in translation. "I think he meant well, it just came across wrong," said Trierweiler, 22. "By no means did he mean to say anything against anyone else." Katelyn Van Slyke, a graduate student at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, agreed. "I think that everyone takes what he says way too seriously. Everything he says is like a joke with himself. He's a funny guy." She said Friday's concert and the warm reception he received from the 80 percent capacity crowd proved he can move past the negativity caused by the racy interview. "He can move on from it. He's a weird guy, and his personality goes into his music, that's what makes him so unique," she said. "He apologized, and I don't think he's a bad guy. He's just taken way too seriously." Related Artists |
| Kris Allen, Adam Lambert And Allison Iraheta Reunite Onstage In NYC Posted: 12 Feb 2010 11:41 PM PST After individual sets, the 'American Idol' trifecta come together for a cover of Gnarls Barkley's 'Crazy.'
NEW YORK — The "American Idol" stars aligned Friday night (February 12), as Allison Iraheta, Adam Lambert and Kris Allen took the stage for an exclusive live event. Ryan Seacrest's "Rock My Town" concert brought out hundreds of lucky ticket winners, all of whom braved the cold for hours to make sure they got the best possible spot in the intimate Highline Ballroom. Performing in the order in which they were eliminated during the eighth season of "Idol," fiery-haired Allison Iraheta rocked out first in a dizzying set that showed off her raspy pipes and her criminally overlooked pop/rock songs.
Iraheta — in two punky pigtails and a black-and-white rocker-chic dress — and her enthusiastic four-piece band ripped through fan favorites like "Holiday," single "Friday I'll Be Over U," show-opener "Don't Waste the Pretty" and "Robot Love" with plucky aplomb. (The latter song even featured Iraheta busting out a quick robot dance move, much to the delight of the audience, made up of teenagers, their parents and a host of baby boomers with glitter face-paint, presumably there for Mr. Lambert.) Iraheta's set hit a few bumpy patches — including some technical hiccups with a bum mic — but she made up for it with her rough-around-the-edges, self-deprecating charm. After flubbing a few lines in the title track from her album, "Just Like You," she offered a silly mea culpa to the adoring crowd. "I'm sorry for being an idiot. Let's see if I can get this next one right." (She did. "Trouble Is," an achingly tender ballad, was a set highlight.) Later, on another ballad, "Scars," Iraheta stopped her band when she realized she began in the wrong key. During take two, Allison changed the lyrics to "Don't turn away, I won't go off key this time." All was forgiven by her set closer, a stompy fuzz-rock cover of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly" that was so strong, it's easy to imagine Iraheta making it to last year's finale had she had the chance to sing it on "Idol." It's a shame Allison's self-confidence was on the fritz as she exited. "Sorry about sucking tonight," she sighed. (For the record, she did not suck.) Self-confidence wasn't a problem for Adam Lambert, who sported more glam and glitter in his hair than all of Las Vegas combined. During the explosive 11-song set, he owned the stage with his blend of raw sexuality, campy theatrics and, most importantly, vocal agility. Lambert effortlessly glided through octave-jumping, voice-testing songs like "Music Again," "Strut" and the heart-stopping ballad "Soaked," originally a Muse demo. Adam easily whipped the crowd into a frenzy with his Mick Jagger-meets-Alice Cooper-meets-Elvis Presley presence, but Lambert quickly stopped his set as soon as he noticed a fan in front had passed out from all the excitement. Once the situation had been resolved and the sick woman got some water, Adam suggested she take a seat away from the stage. "You can rock out from back there," he politely suggested, before busting out "Sure Fire Winners," which appropriately features the line "Give 'em something to pass out about." Any "Idol" fans who expected Lambert to put out an album of hard-rock songs should start saving their cash for when Adam goes on tour later this year. Songs like "If I Had You," "For Your Entertainment" and the Lady Gaga-penned "Fever," which each have a dance/pop vibe on his RCA/ 19 Recordings debut, were given a rough, badass makeover thanks to his backing band. Lambert and his crew were just as effective on quieter tunes too. Current single "Whataya Want From Me" and the Ryan Tedder collaboration "Sleepwalker" were both high points for the passionate singer. But it was the one-two punch of his last two songs that really kicked the set to new heights. First, Lambert busted out the rare bonus track "Down the Rabbit Hole," and even though not everyone knew the song, Adam had the entire crowd in the palm of his spiky-gloved hands thanks to his electrifying performance, complete with knee-falling, ear-monitor tossing and plenty of cozying up to his bassist, TommyJoe Ratliff (who your parents probably remember as the dude Lambert kissed on the American Music Awards). "I got a little carried away," he meekly said. Lambert then busted out his iconic cover of Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love," and the crowd erupted. It was a genius set-ender. Not only did it allow for his talented band to get some arena-ready rock solos, but the risqué lyrics let Adam act out as much as he wanted. His rock-and-roll antics included giving the microphone stand some affection, smearing makeup all over his face, shouting "come on, bitches!" into the crowd, licking the lens of a fan's digital camera and letting a group of grab-happy audience members get up close and personal. As the glitter settled and the road crew began setting up for Allen's performance, a sizeable group of Lambert fans made a beeline for the door, an odd and unfortunate gesture considering the amount of "Idol" fans who were shut out from winning tickets and love all the performers. Those who stayed were treated to a surprisingly loud Allen set. It smartly kicked off with his much-lauded cover of Kanye West's "Heartless," which has now evolved into a mash-up with the Coolio oldie "Gangsta's Paradise." Later on, he played another ditty that earned him raves on "Idol," the Swell Season's "Falling Slowly," except now Allen adds a few measures of U2's "With or Without You" into the mix, making the song feel even more sweeping and emotional. So much so, in fact, that Glen Hansard stole Kris' unique arrangement for a Swell Season show earlier this week, a tidbit Kris was eager to share with the crowd. (Allen also played his Michael Jackson week offering "Man in the Mirror" but left it untouched, presumably out of respect for MJ, whom Kris called "one of the greatest ever.") Allen's been on the road the most out of the three on the bill, and it has paid off handsomely. His bandmembers sound like they have been playing together for years, and his stage presence has improved tremendously since his days on "Idol." He no longer looks awkward when he performs without a guitar. In fact, "Can't Stay Away," "Written All Over My Face" and his cover of the the Beatles' "Come Together" all showed off a newfound — dare I say it? — rock-star swagger that delighted the Kris fans bopping in the audience (even if nobody passed out, as Kris jokingly said was his goal for the night). Even more exciting was when Allen and his band opened up the arrangements to his album songs. "Red Guitar" and "Is It Over" both approached jam-band territory at certain points, giving the 12-song set a dynamic ebb and flow. The crowd cheered the loudest for Allen's single "Live Like We're Dying" (and least for the sore thumb of the night, the Pat Monahan-penned ballad "The Truth"), but the highlight was the infectious sing-along "Alright With Me." Kris grabbed five fans out of the front of the audience to help sing backup. (A sixth "straggler" joined them.) As he helped one girl up, she suffered from "pants on the ground" syndrome, giving the crowd a nice view of her underwear. Allen, being a Southern gentleman, blushed as he stammered, "Oh gosh! Don't ... don't look." (It's also important to note that Kris neglected to choose the ballsy fan who had thrown an Adam Lambert T-shirt at him earlier.) Moments after Kris left the stage saying "Kradison thanks you," Allen's band returned for an encore, except this time they brought Lambert's guitarist Monte Pittman with them. The crowd buzzed. Could it be? Would fans be treated to a one-of-a-kind collaboration? Turns out, yes. Kris, Allison and Adam all traded verses on an electric cover of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy," in an epic collaboration that played like a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame jam session: "Idol" edition. As Kris mentioned earlier in the night, "They're my family, dude," and that familial bond was on full display. While wailing into their mics, Adam picked up Allison, Allison draped herself on Kris, and Kris and Adam sang to each other while frenzied fans in the crowd desperately tried to keep up with their camera phones. When it all ended, the audience was in full flail mode. If only those early exiters knew what they were missing. Get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions. Related Artists |
| 'We Are The World' Director Celebrates Premiere With Haitian Film Students Posted: 13 Feb 2010 09:19 AM PST 'It's pretty cool. Their excitement is palpable,' Paul Haggis says of working with the young filmmakers.
NEW YORK — "We Are the World: 25 for Haiti" director Paul Haggis was responsible for putting together the visuals for the remake of the iconic musical hit. In the spirit of the original version's charitable effort for Africa, the new effort was created to help the survivors of Haiti's massive earthquake last month. So, to make sure the new "We Are the World" video resonated with viewers, Haggis used Haitian film students as part of his crew.
Future filmmakers from the Ciné Institute in Jacmel, Haiti, helmed cameras of their own as they not only captured behind-the-scenes footage of the all-star cast, but provided the images from the wake of the earthquake that lit up the screens behind the musicians. Haggis celebrated the premiere of the video with his eight-person staff of students. The mix of young men and women, who range in age from late teens to early 30s, shrieked and smiled as the world watched their work. "It's pretty cool [to watch it with them]. Their excitement is palpable," Haggis told MTV News from an editing suite in New York, where he finished the video just 12 hours earlier. "To think a week ago [before we started filming] they were in Jacmel, where their homes and schools were destroyed," he continued. "They were literally homeless. And to come here and participate in this and do a really good job of pulling this off, we should feel proud that we made this happen in some small way." Haggis was surrounded by the students, who have been working round-the-clock on producing the "making of" video and also a documentary on their school being given this opportunity to work with the Oscar-winning director. The student work has been helpful to Haggis but also to numerous media outlets who used their footage immediately following the 7.1-magnitude earthquake. Haggis watched the shortened made-for-TV version that aired during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics. Afterward the director cued up the extended version, featuring Lil Wayne, Jamie Foxx doing a Ray Charles impersonation, and the full hip-hop bridge of the song. He joked that the credits that would follow were just as long as the seven-minute clip that he was going to preview. But once the video ended, the Ciné Institute students whooped and hollered as their names scrolled across the screen. It was the first time they saw the official completed work. "I remember the first time my stuff aired on network television, and it was very exciting," Haggis said. "Some of [the students] were behind the cameras, some of them were in front of the cameras there. I think they're pretty excited. It's good to see." Haggis, who has been a supporter of the school since its inception, said he cherished the opportunity to work with the Haitian film students. "It's good to give but better to cooperate," he said. "To cooperate with this group of artists, I feel blessed." Learn more about what you can do to help with earthquake-relief efforts in Haiti, and for more information, see Think MTV. Visit HopeForHaitiNow.org or call (877) 99-HAITI to make a donation now. Related Videos Related Photos |
| John Mayer's <i>Playboy</i> Interview: Readers Weigh In Posted: 11 Feb 2010 11:18 PM PST MTV News readers react to controversial comments Mayer made in his recent Playboy interview.
Singer/songwriter John Mayer's controversial interview with Playboy magazine has sparked a wide range of reactions from the musician's fans, detractors, contemporaries and even the most impartial of MTV News readers. Responses have illustrated an array of emotions and reactions ranging from disgust and disappointment to support and ambivalence. While many readers loathed Mayer's racially charged assertions and detailed comments regarding his sexual exploits, some felt that the musician wasn't acting out of the ordinary, and still others felt that he had a right to voice his opinion. Several readers utilized choice lyrics from "Waiting on the World to Change," "My Stupid Mouth" and more to deride Mayer. Needless to say, feedback has been plentiful and strongly voiced, no matter the reader's opinion. Below are just some of the many reactions that readers have expressed in response to the Mayer controversy, lightly edited for grammar, over the past several days. Please note that these opinions are not reflective of MTV News' stance on the matter; this is simply a sampling of reader reactions to Mayer's recent comments. To continue the conversation, please head to the comments section below. "Stop 'waiting on the world to change.' What happened to that talented, humble guy? Now you are the monster that can belittle, hurt and shame with no thought for how your words can affect others. I'm waiting for you to change." — Laurence "Whew...John...you gotta work on the damage control there, seriously. I'm still a fan of your music though. And I keep hearing your song 'My Stupid Mouth' in my head." — trouble520 "John Mayer is a 32-year-old incredible guitar playing singer-songwriter. He is also ignorant and senseless. Every time John thinks he has something of relevance to share, he should just shut his mouth and pick up his guitar — that's what he's good at. I will never understand why celebrities think we are interested in [their] sexual exploits and their bad behavior. Grow up, John Boy!!" — sugarray "Being mad every time someone uses the N-word is very ignorant, and this is why racism will never die. There are always two parts [of] every situation. In my opinion, in this situation, there is the negative and people that keep the negative alive, and that's us African Americans, because we get so mad when the N-word is passed around, when we already do a great job without white people when we rap about it. What makes it so different when a white person [says] it than when we entertain our generation with it? Put that anger into teaching the next generation about our history and stop being ignorant. Stop rapping about *******, whores, money and cars and let something that is meaningful come out of your mouth." — christina "I don't believe John Mayer is racist. I understood his intent with those comments. However, he — as he admitted in his bid to save himself from his mouth — tries too hard to be clever, provocative and witty. Usually the people and topics he talks about are too insignificant for anybody to care, but this time people cared and now the foot that usually is in his mouth choked him." — micdus "Dear John, your apology is accepted as far as I am [concerned] because you did no harm. You used it to make a point and my people use it haphazardly all the time and I don't like it and we should get rid of this word. I mean we can't even differentiate between dark-skin and light-skin blacks so we should be [ashamed] of ourselves when this word comes out of our mouths. The first thing you'll hear for an excuse is it's a way of expressing [affection] and such and that's a whole lot of bull and we need to just stop it and not be such hypocrites when we [hear] someone of another race use it. I mean if [you're] going to mock yourself, then why get angry when others mock you?" — Rosetta Marie Archie "I don't think he should apologize. If this is really the way he feels, then there's no reason for him to feel sorry about that. Fans want to know the real artist, not someone who is censored and can't voice openly his/her opinion." — takingthestagefan5 "He's human. We all say and do things we regret. He apologized. What more can be asked of him? He isn't this perfect god, he's just a man that is very talented, therefore we're trying to hold him to a higher standard. Yes, it was a stupid remark, but come on." — SunCityGirl2 "As a black female, I don't find what he said racist or offensive. John Mayer is an arrogant jackass. We've all known that for some time now. He's an attention [whore] and this is what he's getting. Whatever, end of it. But, boy, Playboy just handed him the shovel to dig the hole in deeper and deeper and deeper. Good job, interview!" — iiShannon "I am obsessed with John Mayer, but I have to admit [I've] been hard pressed not to tear up every time I think about what he said. It was so hurtful, as a black woman who has bought every one of his albums, campaigned for him against those who thought he was nothing more than a playboy poptart, and was happily telling everyone she knew that she's going to his concert for the first time. I feel like an idiot." — candycorps "John, please shut up. Let your music do your talking. Stick that guitar in that big mouth of yours and just shut up." — yoo What do you think about Mayer's comments? Are they offensive or just his opinion? Make your voice heard below. Related Artists |
| How Can You Avoid Sexting Dangers? Posted: 11 Feb 2010 11:51 PM PST Expert shares tips in Sunday night's 'Sexting in America: When Privates Go Public' on MTV.
If you really love someone, or just want to show them how crazy you are about them, sending a sexually explicit photo from your phone is not the right move. "When teens are in love, they want to show how much they love each other, so it's natural that they consider sending sexually provocative pictures," said Parry Aftab, an Internet privacy and security lawyer. "Teens are feeling the pressure to do it, but if he really loves you, he won't put you in a position where that picture could get out."
Aftab is one of the experts who speak in "Sexting in America: When Privates Go Public," a 30-minute special airing Sunday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, in which we take a closer look at the dangers of sexting and the serious repercussions for the people who send and receive naked pictures of peers on their mobile phones and other devices. Cyber-bullying and sexting incidents have led despondent victims to suicide and serious criminal charges (as well as dismissal from school sports teams and suspension) against those who post or forward explicit pictures. Aftab said that even if you think the recipient of your message is trustworthy, someone else — a younger brother, parent, friend or romantic rival — could get hold of that picture and use it as a weapon against you. Images taken of someone under the age of 18 can constitute child pornography, a major felony, according to Aftab. "If you take a picture, you can be accused of producing child pornography. If you send it to somebody, you can be accused of distributing child pornography. And if you keep a picture, you can be accused of possessing child pornography," Aftab explained, noting that people convicted of child pornography charges must register as sex offenders, a designation that can impact your personal relationships, work and dictate where you can live. You might expect your sext message to remain private, but nearly one in five sext recipients report that they have passed the images along to someone else, with more than half saying that they just assumed others would want to see them, followed by a desire to show off and boredom. According to an MTV poll, three in 10 young people reported that they'd been involved in some type of naked texting. Sexting has made its way into pop culture through appearances on "90210" and a recent Super Bowl ad featuring Megan Fox for Motorola. Perhaps the most famous celebrity case involved Fall Out Boys' Pete Wentz, who has spoken about how much he regrets the 2006 leak of his full frontal photos. If you receive a sext, delete it immediately, Aftab recommends. And keep in mind that once you take a photo on your phone, it never goes away. "It could be in a million places and you never know who got a copy," said Aftab. "If you take it on your phone and texted it, a copy exists with your cell phone carrier and on [the recipient's] phone. Maybe he e-mailed it to himself, so now it's on his computer, and if he put it on an SD card and used it on his Xbox, now it's there also. They're also sometimes sold on the digital black market for use on underground Web sites where real child predators love to look at them." If you've sent a sext, she suggests having a discussion with the recipient and then doing your best to delete all copies. If you or someone you know is a victim of digital abuse, get help now. Experts believe education and dialogue are key to identifying and stopping the spread of digital abuse. Head to AThinLine.org to find ways you can increase national awareness about this issue and be a part of the solution. The MTV News special "Sexting in America: When Privates Go Public," premieres Sunday, February 14, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Related Videos |
| Adam Lambert, Kris Allen, Allison Iraheta Talk Reuniting For NYC Show Posted: 12 Feb 2010 06:12 AM PST 'I called Ryan [Seacrest] and I said, 'Dude, I really miss Kris and Allison,' ' Lambert jokes of how 'American Idol' trio's concert came together.
On Friday night (February 12), "American Idol" fans in New York were in for a treat. Season-eight winner Kris Allen joined breakout superstar Adam Lambert and fourth-place finisher Allison Iraheta for a special concert, exclusive to contest winners of a Z100 radio giveaway, the "Ryan, Rock My Town" event at the Highline Ballroom. MTV News "American Idol" expert Jim Cantiello was on the scene to score the first-ever interview with Kradison ("Idol" fans' affectionate name for the triumvirate) and was able to get the scoop on the reunion concert.
"I called Ryan [Seacrest] and I said, 'Dude, I really miss Kris and Allison,' " Lambert joked. "I think Ryan did it," Allen said. "He said, 'Let's have a contest with these three people and vote to see what city it's going to be in,' so New York won." Since all the singers are on the road promoting their own respective albums, the "Idol" alumni don't get to see each other much these days. "We're all really doing our own thing right now, but it's great to see each other," Lambert said. "We do bump into each other a lot," Iraheta pointed out. Cantiello noticed one of the top-four season-eight contestants was missing: "Where's Danny Gokey tonight?" "Probably in Nashville," Allen responded, adding that the third-place finisher has a country album coming out in the near future. All three planned to perform their own individual set and it has also been rumored that the three will collaborate together onstage at some point during the show. Be sure to check back at MTVNews.com for more Kradison coverage and Jim Cantiello's show report tonight! Related Artists |
| Beyonce, Lady Gaga Are 'Magical' In 'Telephone' Video, Semi Precious Weapons Say Posted: 12 Feb 2010 12:37 AM PST The glam rockers describe the video as 'Tarantino-inspired violent melodrama.'
Judging by the leaked photos and a few rumors, Beyoncé is breaking Lady Gaga out of jail in their newest video collaboration, "Telephone." And now we know one more thing about the clip: Gaga's pals and Monster Ball Tour opening act Semi Precious Weapons also appear in it.
"We do have a cameo in the 'Telephone' video, which was when we walked on set and there was Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, all at once. It was pretty magical," frontman Justin Tranter shared with MTV News. "Obviously, Gaga's one of the greatest music visionaries of our time, and Beyoncé is one of the greatest visions of our time. She is a music visionary too." While the glam rockers are used to Gaga's visions, Tranter was struck by the sight of Beyoncé in the flesh. "Her body is like Jessica Rabbit," he said. "It's like a cartoon. She's so hot and perfect." Although the guys couldn't say much about the plot of the video, they did share that they die in the clip. "Yeah, we are in the 'Telephone' video and we die in it," Tranter said. "And I think that's probably all I'm allowed to tell ... And, I think, what people have already talked about: It's very Tarantino-inspired, sort of like violent melodrama glamour." Semi Precious Weapons didn't seem too disappointed by their tragic end. "Oh, no! It's awesome," Tranter exclaimed. "We were honored. Gaga's like, 'And then you're going to die.' We were like, 'Yes!' The video's going to be awesome." Related Artists |
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