Sabtu, 12 Maret 2011

MTV News

MTV News

Robert Pattinson To Talk 'Water For Elephants' On 'MTV First' Live Stream!

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 08:58 AM PST

RPattz will debut an exclusive movie clip and answer fan questions during Q&A streaming live on March 18 at 8:56 p.m. ET on MTV.com.


Robert Pattinson in "Water for Elephants"
Photo: 20th Century Fox

Calling all Robert Pattinson fans! MTV News has a very special treat for all of you next Friday, March 18, when we'll present an exclusive sit-down interview with Robert Pattinson and premiere a previously-unseen clip from his new movie, "Water for Elephants."

Hosted by MTV News' Josh Horowitz, "MTV First: Robert Pattinson" airs next Friday at 8:56 p.m. ET on MTV and MTV.com. Fans can tune in to see RPattz introduce the new clip, followed immediately by a live 30-minute interview with Josh on MTV.com, during which the "Twilight" heartthrob will answer a few questions from fans.

Fans can begin submitting their pressing queries on Friday (March 11) on MTV.com or via Twitter (using @MTVNews/ hashtag #AskRob).

In order to properly prepare for this exclusive, must-see event, MTV News will also be pulling from its extensive Robert Pattinson library — dating back to the first "Twilight" flick — during a five-day countdown of our favorite MTV moments with the star. Fans should check in every day to see and comment on the latest clips!

Pattinson's eagerly anticipated "Water for Elephants" is based on the acclaimed best-seller by Sara Gruen. The story revolves around a veterinary school student Jacob (Pattinson), who meets and falls in love with Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), a star performer in a circus around the time of the Great Depression. They discover beauty amidst the world of the Big Top and connect over their compassion for a special elephant. Against all odds — including the wrath of Marlena's charismatic but dangerous husband, August (Christoph Waltz) — Jacob and Marlena pursue lasting love.

"Water for Elephants" hits theaters on April 22.

Check out everything we've got on "Water For Elephants."

For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

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Foo Fighters Fans Are 'People Who Dig Rock Music,' Dave Grohl Says

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 04:21 AM PST

'There's not one particular demographic,' he tells MTV News during their 'MTV First' premiere of 'Rope.'
By Vaughn Schoonmaker, with reporting by James Montgomery


Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl
Photo: MTV News

The Foo Fighters came to one lucky fan's house Thursday for "MTV First," where they premiered their "Rope" video and answered questions submitted on Twitter and in person.

When MTV News' James Montgomery asked the band about their fanbase, lead singer Dave Grohl described the diversity of those who fill up stadiums when the band is on tour.

"There's not one particular demographic. It's just people who dig rock music," Dave noted. "When we play gigs, it's a trip to stand there and look at the audience, because there'll be kids, like 5- or 6-year-old kids, and then there'll be like full-on mustache dads. And then there'll be like crazy MILF drunk mamas."

The Foo Fighters certainly treasure their fans, both new and vintage. "We still get new fans and then we still have some that saw Nirvana. So to me it's really awesome, because we wouldn't be here if it weren't for our fans."

As far as what the average Foo Fighters fan may be like, there's certainly a lack of paparazzi stampedes and screaming teenagers.

"I think we have a cool relationship with [our fans]," Dave smiled. "Like when people see us, they don't go, 'Oh my God! It's the Foos!' They'll just be like, 'Hey, Dave, what's up?' and I'm like, 'Do I know that guy?' So I never say, 'It's nice to meet you.' I always say, 'It's nice to see you.' "

Dave also spoke of his recent discovery of a vast and enthusiastic population of Foos fans in South America, when he joined Twitter.

"One of the first things I noticed when I first tweeted is that like 98 percent of the people on Twitter live in Argentina and Brazil," Dave said. "I [tweeted] a picture of the tape machines, and 50 percent of the responses were like, 'Come to Argentina!' 'Come to Brazil!' 'Come to Chile!' "

The South American fans have already made quite an impression on the Foo Fighters. As Dave recalled, "We had this one knob on the mixing deck that we made the 'grunge' knob, so we turned it up to 11 and took a picture of it, and someone from Argentina wrote, 'Never too grungy!' And so that became this catchphrase that we use."

Do you count yourself among the Foo Fighters' eclectic fanbase? Let us know in the comments!

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Diddy Doesn't Get 'Caught Up' In <i>Forbes</i> Hip-Hop List

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 04:48 AM PST

'People think that I have that money actually sitting at home in the basement,' Diddy tells MTV News of topping 'wealthiest in hip-hop' list.
By D.L. Chandler


Diddy-Dirty Money
Photo: MTV News

Everything Diddy touches turns to gold — or millions, in this case.

The mogul with the Midas touch has topped yet another list — but it isn't due to record sales for his new group Diddy-Dirty Money. Sean Combs tops Forbes' list of the wealthiest hip-hop entertainers, with his $475 million besting Roc Nation mogul Jay-Z by a mere $25 million.

Diddy spoke with MTV News about his inclusion on the list, flanked by his Dirty Money beauties, Dawn Richard and Kalenna Harper. "To be honest, on that list, I was on the cover of Forbes back in '98," Diddy said. "I been on that list. I don't really get caught up into the list. I think people think that I have that money actually sitting at home in the basement."

The figure, according to Forbes, includes current holdings and past earnings from public financial documents. Diddy confirmed that by humbly stating that, in order to have that manner of cash on hand, he would need to sell off all his companies and assets, something he takes great pride in.

"It's really like if I sold all my companies, and I take pride in [building] something as a black man that's worth that much," Diddy said, but he added a warning with a laugh: "To everyone calling me for a loan today, I do not have that money today!"

Diddy and Jay are definitely not at war over the top spot on Forbes' list. In fact, Diddy hopes people are motivated by their success.

"It helps inspire people and it shows the power of hip-hop," Diddy said.

Dr. Dre, 50 Cent and Birdman round out the top five.

Are you surprised that Diddy topped the list? Let us know in the comments!

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'American Idol' In 60 Seconds: We're Under Naima's 'Umbrella'

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 09:37 AM PST

Read the transcript of this week's lightning fast recap, just in case you missed a joke.
By Jim Cantiello


Naima Adedapo performs on "American Idol" on Wednesday
Photo: Fox

Jim Cantiello's "American Idol" in 60 Seconds recaps have been an institution at MTV News since Sanjaya's Reign of Terror. But sometimes, the lightning-quick pace moves by so fast, you occasionally miss a joke, comment or sight gag. So, as a courtesy to our loyal watchers, we're publishing the full script of Jim's latest recap. Check out the embedded video to catch the first "Idol in 60 Seconds" of season 10.

Hey guys, MTV News "American Idol" expert Jim Cantiello here with everything you need to know about this week's "Idol" in 60 seconds.

[Deep breath!]

This week, season 10 finally kicked off and everyone was excited ... except for those two. [Shot of Jimmy Iovine and Berry Gordy as the lone sitting ducks in an audience packed with screaming people on their feet.]

The top 13 performed songs from their personal idols, which included two dudes who were accused of raping children [Jacob Lusk tackled R. Kelly, Thia Magia worshipped Michael Jackson], one former heroin addict [Paul McDonald's Ryan Adams homage] and Celine Dion?! Ugh!

But this ain't your grandma's "Idol." Jimmy Iovine was added to the show to make the songs sound contemporary!

[Clip of the lame lite-jazz arrangement Thia Megia was saddled with.]

Oh, but we have a new judging panel. They brought their A-game, right?!

[Clip of J. Lo saying pitch doesn't matter, clip of Steven Tyler name-checking International Women's Day for no reason.]

[Jim is disappointed.] This is the remix?!

It wasn't all a wash, though. Paul McDonald did his best Gollum impression. Casey Abrams got high ... praises. And admit it: You totally loved watching those two teenagers cry. [Shots of Lauren Alaina and Thia Megia fighting back tears.]

But my favorite was Naima, who proved with "Umbrella" that she can dance ... sort of, and she can rap ... sort of, and she can sing ... sor— OK, two out of three ain't bad.

On Wednesday night's results show: Werrrrrk! [Shot of Jacob Lusk being fierce in the group number.]

[Clip: Pia Toscano sings the line, "I'm starting with a man in the mirror."]

She is?! Werrrrrk!

WERRRRRRRRRRRRK! [Shot of Adam Lambert performing "Aftermath."]

[Clip of Adam telling J. Lo, "So I want you to teach me how to dougie."]

OK, Adam, there's no need to lie.

And results!

"You're all safe except for you." [Shot of Karen Rodriguez's awkward bottom three placement.] "Just kidding, except not."

There's your bottom tres. There's your bottom two. And scene. [Shot of Ashthon weeping.]

DING!

Don't miss "Idol Party Live" every Thursday on MTV.com, following the "American Idol" results show, for analysis, celebrity guests and even some karaoke — get in the conversation by tweeting with the hashtag #idolparty! In the meantime, get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

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Gucci Mane Producer Drumma Boy Talks Duo's Best Collabos

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 05:44 AM PST

On the heels of club banger 'I Don't Love Her,' beatsmith tells Mixtape Daily, ' I bring out the thinking side of Gucci.'
By Jayson Rodriguez, with reporting by Rahman Dukes


Drumma Boy
Photo: Courtesy of Drumma Boy

Behind the Beats: Drumma Boy

Drumma Boy has injected the game for years now with his bottom-heavy Atlanta (where he resides) beats splashed with a tinge of Memphis (where he was born) soul. He's laid down tracks for everyone from the Cash Money Millionaires to comeback king Usher. Now, the veteran producer is shifting gears to the business side of things: He served as executive producer on Gucci Mane's forthcoming effort, The Return of Mr. Zone 6, set to arrive on March 22.

Mixape Daily caught up with Drumma recently to talk about his past collaborations with Gucci.

Five-Star Stellar Hits

"I Don't Love Her" (featuring Rocko and Webbie): "That's one of the biggest Gucci records in the club," Drumma said of the Zaytoven-produced lead number from Zone 6. "Hands down, the club goes absolutely ridiculous."

"Beat It Up" (featuring Trey Songz): "The label didn't get behind it [and] never shot a video for it," he said of the Burrrprint (2) HD track. "I always tell Gucci that was one of his biggest songs and it could have been bigger."

"Worst Enemy": "A lot of DJs still hit me to this day and tell me it's one of his most substantial records," Drumma said about the sobering State vs. Radric Davis record. "Just about his situation and what was going on and how he felt, I get a lot of reviews about that one, still."

"All About My Money" (featuring Rick Ross): "People go crazy listening to that one," he said.

"Classical": "It was something different that I tried, I have the live orchestra," he said about the Radric Davis opener. "It's fun to bring out different sides of people. I bring out the thinking side of Gucci."

For other artists featured in Mixtape Daily, check out Mixtape Daily Headlines.

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Brandy Recalls Meeting Michael Jackson, On 'When I Was 17'

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 04:21 AM PST

On latest episode, airing Saturday at 11 a.m. ET, singer says she fainted after meeting the King of Pop.
By James Dinh


Brandy on "When I Was 17"
Photo: MTV

Sometimes celebrities get starstruck too — just ask Brandy. In the latest episode of "When I Was 17," the singer-turned-reality starlet opens up about meeting Michael Jackson, thanks to producer Rodney Jerkins.

"When I was 17, my producer Rodney Jerkins was working with Michael Jackson at the time," Brandy says in the episode, premiering Saturday at 11 a.m. ET on MTV. "He knew how much I wanted to meet Michael Jackson, so he says, 'Would you like to come and meet him?' I'm like, 'Are you serious? Of course I want to meet Michael Jackson! Where do I meet you? Where do we come?' "

And it wasn't just Jerkins who knew about the singer's admiration for Jackson. "Michael Jackson was it, so we studied Michael. Brandy studied Michael," her brother Ray J says.

Brandy says the super-producer orchestrated the meeting between the siblings and Jackson at the recording studio. However, prior to entering the room, Brandy says nerves got the best of her.

"My heart is beating so fast at this point," the "Dancing With the Stars" alum recalls. "I'm like, 'Oh my God. It's happening. We're about to open the door and he's going to be in there.' "

Ray J, who was equally excited, peeped around the room, saying, "When we first walked into the studio, we can kind of see Michael in the corner and we looked at each other like, 'Did you see him?' " Unfortunately, Brandy, couldn't maintain the same type as composure. "And I'm looking at him like, 'Oh my God. This is Michael Jackson,' " adding, "I fainted, blacked out — like seriously blacked out."

"When I Was 17" airs Saturdays at 11 a.m. ET on MTV.

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New 'Super 8' Trailer's Five Key Moments

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 09:56 AM PST

We take a look at the most fascinating scenes featured in the new promo clip for the upcoming J.J. Abrams-directed adventure film.
By Eric Ditzian


Joel Courtney, Ryan Lee, and Riley Griffiths
Photo: Paramount Pictures

"What the hell?" says a boy at the very end of the first full-length trailer for "Super 8," neatly summarizing our own thoughts about the footage from the mysterious action-adventure film: Um, what exactly did we just see?

Well, what we saw, first off, was an incredibly effective promo clip courtesy of director J.J. Abrams and executive producer Steven Spielberg. It managed to maintain the spirit of a teaser trailer — withholding far more information than is ever unleashed — while expanding our understanding of, and getting us seriously more excited about, what we'll see in the flick when it hits theaters on June 10. Here are our picks for the new trailer's five key moments:

What Kind of Military Trucks Are Those?
In we'd already seen the fiery train crash that unleashes some sort of very angry, possible very alien creature. So what we're focused on here is what's new, like those military trucks rolling through town with red cargo bins. What kind of military vehicles haul cargo like that? We see them pull right up to the train's wreckage, so we're guessing whatever is in them is important. As an Air Force leader, played by Noah Emmerich, says to Kyle Chandler's local policeman, "I understand you have concerns about our cargo," before telling him there's nothing to worry about. Right ...

9/11 ... for Dogs?
Though the film is set in 1979, there's no mistaking the allusion to September 11, 2001, in this shot of missing-dog posters. Apparently, all the dogs hightailed it out of town after the train crash. Why is it that animals always seem to grasp potential sci-fi terror before humans? And what ever happened to man's best friend, after all?

That Looks Like It Hurts
So dogs and people start to go missing. Things, no doubt, start to go from bad to worse. Just look at this bloody-faced guy who has a gun in his hand, a terrified look in his eyes, and one word of instruction: "Go!" This raises a question about "Super 8" that we've had for a while. Early reports seemed to suggest that this movie would be more of an alien-invasion film in the vein of "Cloverfield." But most of the footage we've seen thus far gives an impression of something more akin to "E.T." So which is it? Or is it both? In the new trailer, we definitely get a sense of a Spielberg-like focus on family-oriented fare, yet things clearly get very intense and very dangerous at some point.

Boom! Boom!
Throughout the trailer, we've seen how this alien presence can somehow manipulate electricity and exert a telekinetic power on objects. Here we see a prime example of that ability, as the local electronics store goes boom. At others points, power lines explode, a bus tips over, and, well, it's all leading to...

Look, Up in the Sky
The most eye-popping scene in the entire trailer comes at nearly the very end. Main Street is trashed, the citizenry is freaked out and the military is nowhere to be seen as vehicles rise up into the air. The kids (portrayed by Joel Courtney and Elle Fanning) — both looking very much like characters from "E.T.," he Elliot, she Gertie — take in the craziness. Like in "E.T.," it seems that only the children fully understand the implications of what's actually going on. For example: No one believes a man in the hospital, for instance, who claims to have seen the creature ... except the boy. As he tells the man, "I believe you."

What are your favorite moments in the new "Super 8" teaser? Tell us in the comments.

Check out everything we've got on "Super 8."

For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.

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'American Idol' Castoff Ashthon Jones Sees Grammys In Her Future

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 12:40 AM PST

'It's not always a bad thing to be the first person' voted off, 25-year-old diva says.
By Gil Kaufman


Ashthon Jones performs on "American Idol"
Photo: FOX

Ashthon Jones is what you might call a glass-half-full kind of gal. Whereas some might consider being a wild-card pick and then the first finalist eliminated on season 10 of "American Idol" a bummer, the 25-year-old Nashville native said Friday (March 11) that she's choosing to see this as an opportunity to get her career started in earnest.

After winning the judges over early with her diva style and voluminous hair, Jones stumbled on Wednesday night with a weak version of the somewhat obscure Diana Ross song "When You Tell Me That You Love Me," which she sang only marginally better on Thursday's show in her last-ditch effort to stay in the running.

But what's done is done, and now the former teenage runaway said she's eager to leave her hardscrabble life (and retail job) behind and get on to the next thing.

Q: Are you going back to your store job in Nashville?

A: No, I'm not! I left it there, and I left it there to stay. I've worked and worked all my life, and now it's time for me to be the artist and the performer that God put in me a long time ago ... and hopefully opportunities are there for me.

Q: What do you think America was missing about you during that top 24 round?

A: I don't know! I was thinking the same thing. I just wanted people to see my personality, and I don't think the show showed my personality as much as I wanted it to. ... I'm kind of glad that the judges saw that personality of a diva, but I didn't want the world to see me as diva-like, like I'm all that. ... I have faith and confidence in myself. I've never been timid onstage.

Q: A lot was made of your song choice, but it was not as obscure as some of the other songs the contestants chose. If you could go back now, would you have chosen a different Diana Ross song?

A: As I look back at it now ... I chose that song for a reason. I listened to all the Diana Ross songs, and that one, for some reason, spoke to me. ... I related it to my life and my experiences and my faith and the love that I have around me. As I was singing that song, the lyrics is what spoke to me.

Q: What was the best piece of advice you received from one of the judges?

A: Steven and Randy told me some great things, but Jennifer always had something real to say that came straight from her spirit. ... She always told me, "You're amazing, you're gonna go far ... I see it, I see it, I see it." And last night she told me, "It's all about the songs in the music business." Even when you get that first record, make sure it's a hit before you put it out, because that's what America will remember, those great songs, and they're never gonna go away.

Q: If you could describe Steven Tyler in one word, what would it be?

A: Fabulous. He was fabulous. From his clothes to his shoes [to] what he said. He didn't care what people thought and said exactly what he felt. And behind the scenes, he was the most humble and sweet person.

Q: You looked like you were in such pain when you found out that you were going home. What was going on with you at that moment?

A: It really was not pain. It was more so leaving the stage and my friends that I had made. I just had to let it out. I always hold stuff in, I'm a very, very strong person ... [but] sometimes you have to let it out, you have to show your emotion.

Q: What about the fact that you were the first person voted off? Is there any stigma to that?

A: I think it's not always a bad thing to be the first person. It can be a good thing. Everything that I went through on the show, now I'm going to take it and put it to work in my career.

Q: Where do you yourself in two to five years?

A: I really see myself performing. I see myself going overseas performing. I see myself helping my mom out with her businesses that she wants to do. I see myself continuing to be a songwriter and a motivator.

Q: Do you see yourself winning a Grammy, being a big, big artist?

A: It's possible. You can't really say, "I'm going to do that." But I'm a firm believer in speaking everything into existence. ... Yes, I believe that I'm going to have a Grammy, I believe that something great is going to come out of this experience.

Were you sad to see Ashthon go? Let us know in the comments!

Don't miss "Idol Party Live" every Thursday on MTV.com, following the "American Idol" results show, for analysis, celebrity guests and even some karaoke — get in the conversation by tweeting with the hashtag #idolparty! In the meantime, get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

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Mel Gibson Reaches A Plea Deal In Battery Case

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 02:49 AM PST

Actor must complete 16 hours of community service and enroll in a 12-month domestic-violence program.
By Jayson Rodriguez


Mel Gibson arrives at the Los Angeles Courthouse Airport branch on Friday
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images

Mel Gibson and his legal team reached a deal with prosecutors Friday (March 11) that will see the actor avoid jail time after being charged with misdemeanor battery earlier in the day.

The actor appeared before a Los Angles judge and pleaded no contest to the charges. Under the terms of his agreement, Gibson must complete 16 hours of community service, enroll in a 12-month domestic-violence program and pay an assortment of court fees and fines.

Gibson also must obey a strict order to not annoy, harass or threaten anyone with violence while serving out his various punishments.

The actor has already begun reporting to a domestic-violence counselor and was ordered to submit a progress report during a status hearing June 9. By that date, the actor is also required to compete his community service, which he's scheduled to perform at the Mending Kids International facility. Gibson's deadline to complete his year of counseling is March 30, 2012.

The actor has 36 hours to turn himself in for booking.

The deal concludes an ugly split between Gibson and ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva, the mother of his young daughter. The two dated briefly after Gibson and his wife of 26 years, Robyn, separated.

Gibson and Grigorieva were ensnarled in a bitter custody dispute that was compounded by lawsuits the two filed against each other.

Gibson accused Grigorieva of extortion and she alleged Gibson physically assaulted her.

Lady Gaga Designs Japanese Tsunami Relief Wristband

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 03:06 AM PST

Mother Monster tweets that all proceeds from sales of prayer bracelets will go to those affected by Friday's tragic disaster.
By Jocelyn Vena


Lady Gaga's Japanese tsunami relief bracelet
Photo: Bravado USA

Lady Gaga is doing her part to help those affected by the 8.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan on Friday (March 11). The devastating quake triggered a 10-meter tsunami and now threatens Pacific coastal areas, including Hawaii and the West Coast.

The star tweeted on Friday that she has designed a special wristband with all of the proceeds going to benefit those affected by the disaster.

"I Designed a Japan Prayer Bracelet. Buy It/Donate here and ALL proceeds will go to Tsunami Relief Efforts. Go Monsters," Gaga wrote.

She then shared a link with more information about the red-and-white bracelet on which the words "we pray for Japan" are written along with an image of a hand making Gaga's signature monster paw gesture. "Little Monsters, show your support for Japan with this 'We Pray for Japan' wristband! Choose your price to add an additional donation with your wristband," the description for the bracelet reads. "All proceeds go directly to Japan relief efforts."

Gaga is the latest celebrity to reach out and help shed light on the devastation left by the tragic events in Japan. Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Adam Lambert, Diddy and many more sent their prayers to those affected via Twitter. Britney Spears encouraged fans to donate to relief organizations, tweeting, "So tragic. My heart is breaking for Japan."

"Just heard about the huge earthquake and tsunami in Japan," Kim Kardashian wrote. "My prayers are with everyone in Japan. Seeing all of this footage in Japan is devastating! Please help the people of Japan by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation."

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Ne-Yo Creating 'I Heart Tuesday' For Cartoon Network

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 02:11 AM PST

Singer says animated series will follow a teenage girl's fight against evil.
By James Dinh


Ne-Yo
Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Ne-Yo might be a singer, songwriter and actor, but he's looking to expand his résumé even further by creating his very own show. In an interview with the Associated Press, the "Beautiful Monster" star revealed that he has inked a deal with Cartoon Network to produce an animated series.

The show, which he said he created for his sister, is called "I Heart Tuesday" and is expected to begin production soon. As for the plot of the show, Ne-Yo said the forthcoming series is about "a 16-year-old girl that inherits the curse of her bloodline and she's forced to save the world from the unknown evil every Tuesday for the rest of her life."

In addition to the animated series, the 31-year-old singer revealed he's creating a line of hats. This isn't the first time Ne-Yo has spoken about other business ventures. Back in August, the hitmaker told MTV Style, "I've been talking to some people about doing a hat line, in that the hat is what I'm most known for," the singer said. "It's odd that the hat is more popular than the music? And possibly a fragrance, but I don't know what I smell like, so I don't know if I want people to smell like me. I mean, I know I don't stink. But everything is in conversation right now."

In the meantime, fans can catch the entertainer in the sci-fi flick "Battle: Los Angeles," which hit theaters Friday (March 11).

Will you watch Ne-Yo's "I Heart Tuesday"? Tell us below!

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Lauryn Hill Announces More Moving Target Tour Dates

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 01:47 AM PST

Former Fugees frontwoman also launches Twitter account.
By James Dinh


Lauryn Hill

After wrapping up her first outing in years, Lauryn Hill is keeping her comeback momentum going strong by announcing the second leg of her tour, Moving Target: Extended Intimate Playdate Series.

Beginning Wednesday, the former Fugees frontwoman will kick off the 12-date outing in Florida before making her way to the West Coast, then wrapping up in May at the New Orleans jazz festival. More dates are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Like the first leg of the tour, Hill is making sure to visit smaller venues to give fans a more intimate experience. "One of the benefits of playing venues smaller than the ones I'm used to allows me the opportunity to not only reconnect with my supporters but to expose them to a portion of the musical journey I've been on which the world for the most part has not had access to," the 35-year-old singer said in a statement. "I've never shied away from being musically adventurous, nor am I known for being a lightweight when it comes to lyrical content or musical exploration."

The elusive singer/rapper also opened up about her hiatus from the big stage, admitting that she's still in the process of regaining all of her performance skills.

"Getting back out there to perform is a lot like resuming a strenuous sport after having been away from it for a while, but eventually the muscle memory kicks in, and each day brings progressive strength. It's an exciting and real process which these audiences will get to witness," she continued.

While Hill has remained shy of press in recent years, the iconic MC has launched a Twitter account to keep fans updated on the latest news and updates for the tour. The account hasn't yet been verified.

Lauryn Hill's Moving Target: Extended Intimate Playdate Series tour dates:

» 3/16 - Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
» 3/19 - Miami, FL @ Jazz in the Gardens Festival
» 3/23 - Tampa, FL @ The Ritz
» 3/26 - Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues
» 3/30 - Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage
» 4/3 - Oahu, HI @ Aloha Tower
» 4/9 - Portland, OR @ Arlene Schnitzer Hall
» 4/12 - San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield
» 4/15 - Indio, CA @ Coachella Music and Arts Festival
» 4/18 - Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia
» 4/23 - Denver, CO @ The Fillmore
» 5/7 - New Orleans, LA @ Jazz and Heritage Festival

Are you excited to see Lauryn Hill on the second leg of her comeback tour? Tell us in the comments below!

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Mel Gibson Charged With Spousal Battery

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 01:58 AM PST

Actor set to appear at L.A. hearing on Friday to face misdemeanor count stemming from incident with ex Oksana Grigorieva.
By Jayson Rodriguez


Mel Gibson arrives at the Los Angeles Courthouse Airport branch on Friday
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

Mel Gibson was charged with one misdemeanor count of spousal battery on Friday (March 11), mere hours before the troubled actor is scheduled to appear in Los Angeles Superior Court for a hearing regarding his ex-girlfriend, Oksana Grigorieva.

Last July, police opened up an investigation into an incident involving the actor and his ex after they conducted an interview with Grigorieva.

The pair dated after Gibson divorced his wife of 26 years — he was separated from his wife for three years before she finally petitioned for the dissolution of their marriage — and Grigorieva gave birth to the couple's daughter. They later split, however, and a nasty custody case ensued with each side tossing unflattering allegations against the other.

Grigorieva painted Gibson as an out-of-control and abusive partner; a leaked voicemail message Gibson left on Grigorieva's phone contained racially charged language and threats, including one in which the "Lethal Weapon" star threatened to burn his former lover's house down.

Gibson, meanwhile, alleged Grigorieva — a Russian recording artist who was at one time signed to the actor's music label — was attempting to extort the actor after their affair ended.

In the domestic abuse case against Gibson, Grigorieva alleges that he attacked her and knocked two of her teeth out during a physical altercation. She also claims Gibson threatened her at his Malibu estate with a handgun. Lawyers for Gibson have disputed all of the claims and argued that the audio samplings provided by Grigorieva have been edited and tampered with.

Dave Grohl Spreads The Gospel Of Rock

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 08:05 AM PST

MTV News spent the day with the Foo Fighters frontman and realized he's on a mission ... from Freddie Mercury.
By James Montgomery


Interviewing the Foo Fighters on Thursday night
Photo: Jonathan Mussman / MTV News

Dave Grohl is sprawled out on a couch inside his trailer, flipping through photos on his Blackberry, largely ignoring everything happening around him (a list of potential distractions that, at this moment, includes "Pat Smear getting makeup applied to his face," "Nate Mendel sitting next to a plate of vegetables," and "Taylor Hawkins shouting about Queen's 'Crazy Little Thing Called Love' ") when all of a sudden, he stops, looks up at me and thrusts his phone in my face.

"Look at this, man, let me show you something," he says, presenting me with a photo of him shaking hands with President Barack Obama. "Don't f--- this up."

He is only kidding, in that faux-serious way that he is better than pretty much anyone (or at least anyone who used to be in Nirvana) at trying to psyche me out minutes before we go live on MTV for the premiere of the Foo Fighters' "Rope" video. So, I make a joke about how he was really slumming it with me, at which point he quickly pulls the device back to his chest, finds another picture and shows it to me.

"Don't be like that," he scolds. "Be like this."

It's a photo of late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, decked out all in white, addressing the masses during the band's legendary 1985 Live Aid performance, a photo that captures everything that was great and majestic about not only the band, but rock and roll in general. And in showing it to me, not only does Dave Grohl confirm the fact that he is a terrifyingly huge Queen fan (the kind that carries photos of Mercury on his Blackberry), but he also reveals what may very well be his guiding principle: Believe in nothing less than the life-affirming power of rock.

It's an outlook that has led him to share the stage with Jimmy Page and record albums with Lemmy Kilmister, an enthusiasm that belies the fact that he is 42 years old and has been playing in bands for nearly 30 of those years. And above all else, it is why — despite being (at the very least) a key cog or (at the very most) the driving force behind two of the biggest rock acts of the past 20 years — he is not above messing around with a guy like me, or keeping pictures of Freddy Mercury on his phone. He is, first and foremost, a rock-obsessed super-fan, a true believer. In other words, he is not all that different from you or me. Only with better connections.

But what makes Grohl different is that he uses those connections to spread the gospel. It's why he decided to record the Foos' new album, Wasting Light in his own garage, why he recruited Bob Mould (of Grohl's all-time favorite acts, Husker Du) to sing on the song "Dear Rosemary," and why he reunited with former Nirvana mate Krist Novoselic on the stunning "I Should Have Known." It's what any of us would've done if we were in his shoes: make the record of our dreams, our way, with our heroes and friends. On one hand, it's a selfish move, on the other, it's selfless ... dutiful even. Rock has been good to Dave Grohl, and so now he will be good to it, by honoring — and harnessing — its powers for good.

And all of that may seem like utter nonsense, but take one look at Grohl any time he's onstage — the goofy smile, the wild eyes, the genuine sense of abandon he displays — and try to tell me he's not being sincere. Or, better yet, watch him interact with his fans, like I did on Thursday in Northridge, California, at the home of Shivan Somaratne, the Foo Fighters fanatic who was chosen by MTV to host the premiere of "Rope." Grohl truly was in his element, cracking jokes, posing for pictures, signing albums and T-shirts and even a chest or two. He was genuinely touched when Somaratne told him that the first song he ever learned to play on guitar was the Foo's "Everlong" — though he was quick to laugh, "Well, it's a simple song" — and seemed grateful when Somaratne handed him a demo CD he had just recorded with his band. You got the feeling he was even going to listen to it.

This was a man who put himself on the same level as the kids in a California suburb, despite 20 years of evidence to the contrary. A man who showed up to the premiere of his new video wearing the same clothes he wore in the video. A man who purchased, customized and fully stocked a white limousine, for no real reason other than it's sort of an awesome thing to do. In other words, this was Dave Grohl doing what he does best: living as the embodiment of rock's true power, and by doing so, encouraging others to do the same thing.

It's what makes him so likable and humble, and what separates him from 95 percent of other rock stars in his strata. He does not take himself seriously in the very least but he takes rock and roll incredibly seriously.

Which is probably why, minutes before we went live, he grabbed me, looked me square in my eyes and said, "Don't be nervous." Or why, after we had made it through the premiere, he smiled and said, simply, "You didn't f--- it up." And he wasn't joking this time. He is perhaps rock's purest ambassador, a man on a mission to spread the good word (or at least buy some Queen albums). On some level, Dave Grohl wants us all to be rock stars.

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Rick Ross Lining Up Maybach Music Roster For <i>Self Made</i>

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 12:33 AM PST

Miami don tweets Wale, Meek Mill and Pill set to appear on compilation album due May 24.
By Alvin Blanco


Rick Ross
Photo: Jemal Countess/ Getty Images

Rick Ross is wasting no time in getting his Maybach Music Group rolling. The Miami rap don announced that he's releasing a compilation album called Self Made that will be in stores May 24.

The Bawse delivered the news about the new album via Twitter, including his latest signees — DC rapper Wale, Philadelphia's Meek Mill and Atlanta MC Pill — in the tweet.

After a bidding war that included Bryan "Baby" Williams' Cash Money Records and Sean "Diddy" Combs' Bad Boy Records, the Def Jam artist decided to pass on aligning with another hip-hop mogul, choosing instead to partner with the Warner Music Group to distribute his Maybach Music Group imprint.

"We are thrilled to be in business with Rick Ross," said Todd Moscowitz, co-president and CEO of Warner Bros. Records, in a statement last month. "We were drawn to his hustle. Ross is an entrepreneur who built his company from the ground up. He's a music magnate, a lightning rod, and an empire builder. Our partnership with him is about building a brand that endures. We back his vision all the way and are ready to give him the resources he needs to pursue that vision."

Of the aforementioned artists, Wale was the first to sign with the Bawse's label, followed by Meek Mill and Pill, who was already a Warner artist.

Other acts on MMG include Gunplay, Torch and Young Breed of rap group Triple Cs as well as R&B singer Masspike Miles. Last July, Rick Ross released his fourth solo album, Teflon Don, which featured the hits "B.M.F. (Blowin' Money Fast)" and "Aston Martin Music" as well as the street anthem "MC Hammer."

Beginning March 18, Ross will be heading out on the road with Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne and Travis Barker for the I Am Music II Tour.

Are you excited for Ross' Maybach Music compilation album? Tell us in the comments!

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'Breaking Dawn' Cast Evacuated Due To Tsunami Warnings In Canada

Posted: 10 Mar 2011 10:06 PM PST

Taylor Lautner and Kristen Stewart are reportedly among the cast and crew forced to leave Vancouver Island.
By Jocelyn Vena


Robert Pattinson on the Vancouver set of "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn"
Photo: Splash News Online

Taylor Lautner and Kristen Stewart, as well as the rest of the "Breaking Dawn" wolf pack cast and crew, have been evacuated from the set of the movie. The film, which is currently shooting in a Vancouver Island beach area in British Columbia, has been suspended for now due to tsunami advisories following the 8.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan early on Friday (March 11).

"Due to the tsunami advisory, filming of The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn has been delayed," Summit Entertainment said in a statement to MTV News. "All cast and crew were evacuated to base camp. Everyone is safe and sound."

Tinsel Korey (who plays Emily, the girlfriend of wolf pack leader Sam), tweeted about the evacuation. "They're evacuating us 4 a tsumnani warning," she wrote. "If this this is my last my tweet. I love you. The end. Hugz. If this is the moment. Then I've lived a good life. And I'm thankful 4 everything I've been given. 1 love. I'm not trying 2 b dramatic!!! I'm just saying my peace. This is my truth right now. 1Love."

The news of the evacuation comes as more and more celebrities react to reports of the strongest recorded earthquake in Japan, which was followed by a tsunami. "Sending condolences to the people of Japan, particularly those who lost loved ones in the earthquake & tsunamis," President Obama, a Hawaii native, wrote. "U.S. stands ready to help."

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Japanese Earthquake, Tsunami On The Minds Of Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, More

Posted: 10 Mar 2011 10:27 PM PST

Katy Perry, Ryan Seacrest, Lindsay Lohan tweet support for those affected by the disaster.
By Jocelyn Vena


Smoke rises from a construction site in Tokyo on Friday
Photo: Sankei/Getty Images

The world is still reacting to the news of an 8.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan on Friday (March 11). The devastating quake triggered a 10-meter tsunami that now threatens Pacific coastal areas including Hawaii and the West Coast of the United States. Celebrities have taken to Twitter to share their love and support for those affected by the natural disaster.

"I'm sending my thoughts and prayers and love to those in Japan who are hurting," Taylor Swift tweeted. Fellow pop princess Katy Perry shared a similar sentiment, writing, "My prayers go out to anyone that is being effected by the disaster in Japan. #prayforjapan."

Selena Gomez, who was just in the country, took to Facebook to express her concern. "Wow, I don't even know what to say, Japan. I was just there and you were all so wonderful to me," she wrote. "I am sending all my love, prayers and support."

Justin Bieber also tweeted about the news. "Japan is one of my favorite places on earth. ... It's an incredible culture with amazing people. My prayers go out to them. We all need to help." He added, "#prayforjapan."

"Our hearts and prayers are with all of our BSB family in Japan. We love you all so much. Please try to stay safe. ... Kisses and hugs from us!" the Backstreet Boys tweeted, with their tourmates New Kids on the Block adding, "Our thoughts are with all those around the world affected by the earthquake in Japan."

"American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest wrote on Twitter, "Glued to TV watching this unreal earthquake footage out of Japan. Sending prayers to everyone affected. Unbelievable."

As the weather threatens his home state of Hawaii, the president tweeted a strong message of support. "Sending condolences to the people of Japan, particularly those who lost loved ones in the earthquake & tsunamis. U.S. stands ready to help."

"Glee" stars Lea Michele and Amber Riley also had kind words for those affected. Michele tweeted, "So devastating to hear about the huge earthquake & tsunami [in] Japan. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone there." Riley added, "Omg my heart goes out to Japan. I pray this devastation stops."

Embattled actress Lindsay Lohan even seemed overwhelmed by the news, writing, "My mommy just woke my sister and i up to this! god bless those that are in fear."

"The images on the news are breaking my heart," Paris Hilton wrote online. "I am so worried for everyone in Japan. My thoughts are with you Japan. God bless you all."

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Nicki Minaj Says She's 'Very Excited' To Tour With Lil Wayne

Posted: 10 Mar 2011 10:33 PM PST

'This is what I've been praying for,' she says.
By Jayson Rodriguez, with reporting by Kelly Marino


Nicki Minaj
Photo: MTV News

Nicki Minaj is an international star these days, but when Harajuku Barbie went on the road with Lil Wayne for his I Am Music Tour two years ago, her portion of the show was limited. For the sequel, however, the "Moment 4 Life" rapper made it onto the marquee.

Minaj will join Rick Ross, Travis Barker and Mixmaster Mike on Lil Wayne's next outing.

"Oh my God, I'm very excited to be touring with Wayne," Nicki told MTV News. "The last time I toured with Wayne I was onstage for three minutes. Now I have my own set, I have my own lighting, my own costumes, my own dancers, my own everything. And this is what I've been praying for [for] a very long time."

She's certainly come a long way compared to when she first joined Weezy's Young Money roster. Wayne admitted she was a nice addition, but he didn't see her becoming as big of a star as she's become. She, along with Drake, gave him the luxury of relaxing while he was behind bars, knowing his protégés were capable of carrying the YM torch.

"I can't front, I just thought she was going to be the new female MC that none of these other female MCs can touch," Wayne said of Minaj earlier this month. "But now, she's blossomed into a megastar with this new attitude and this style. Now when I talk to her, I just tell her, 'Do what you do, baby.' I used to be able to go into the studio and say, 'Nah, don't say that, don't say that.' You know, 'That was better.' Now, do what you do, baby. I don't have a clue about what you're doing right now, but it's working, do it."

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Odd Future Say 'People Just Choose To Be Offended'

Posted: 10 Mar 2011 11:56 PM PST

Tyler the Creator's L.A. collective lands Billboard SXSW cover.
By Alvin Blanco


Odd Future on the cover of <i>Billboard</i> magazine
Photo: Billboard

L.A. collective Odd Future are continuing to bolster their rep as hip-hop's latest phenomenon, landing on the cover of Billboard magazine.

Billed as its South by Southwest 2011 preview issue, the magazine's cover line reads, "Shock rappers, skate kids, rule breakers, content creators, DIY evangelists, disrupters, Odd Future just may be the future of the music business." The feature story, written by Andrew "Noz" Nosnitsky, details Odd Future's seemingly meteoric rise and evaluates their chances of continued success.

Much has been said about Odd Future's music being offensive, thanks to liberal doses of violence, sexism and bugged-out videos. "People just choose to be offended by stuff," Syd the Kid, the group's sole female member, told Billboard. "If they are, then that sucks and I'm sorry, but they don't have to keep listening. Words are words. They don't act out what they say, they just say it."

The motley crew of brash and unfiltered MCs also known as OFWGKTA (short for Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All) includes rap duo MellowHype (Hodgy Beats, Left Brain), Earl Sweatshirt, Domo Genesis and others, with Tyler the Creator as its most-prominent act and de facto leader.

MellowHype recently signed a deal with Fat Possum Records to formally release their BlackenedWhite album this summer, and Tyler the Creator signed a one-album deal with XL Recordings to release Goblin in April.

Despite sold-out shows at small venues and labels clamoring to align with the Odd Future crew, Billboard notes that their actual sales have been only modest. "Sandwitches" and "Yonkers," the only songs from the group (credited to Tyler the Creator) available on iTunes, have sold only about 6,000 and 12,000 units, respectively.

Whether Odd Future is even seeking commercial notoriety is debatable. But their youthful exuberance and confidence is indisputable.

"I could be a complete failure come June," Tyler told Billboard. "Goblin could brick. Everyone could hate it. The hype could be over. I could be back to trying to fill out junior-college [applications] ... But I don't see that happening. I see Grammys."

Odd Future are scheduled to perform at the 2011 MTV Woodie Awards, airing live Wednesday on MTV, MTV2 and mtvU.

Do you expect Odd Future to have commercial success? Sound off in the comments below!

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Justin Timberlake And Jessica Biel: A Look Back At Their Relationship

Posted: 11 Mar 2011 08:15 AM PST

Couple has been plagued by breakup rumors throughout their four years of dating.
By Jocelyn Vena


Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel in 2010
Photo: Marcel Thomas/ FilmMagic

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have officially broken up after four years of dating (and almost as many years of breakup rumors). Although they were spotted together at the Vanity Fair Oscar party last month, the two have decided to call it quits.

(See photos of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel throughout their relationship.)

Their story began in January 2007 when they were first spotted hanging out together. The duo went public at that year's Sundance Film Festival, and from there gossip columnists and fans wanted to know all they could learn about the couple.

When they weren't going on dates and being the hottest couple in the room, they also took up causes together. In October 2008, Timberlake and Biel appeared at an Obama rally in Las Vegas. "Me and Jess, we're here as Americans," Timberlake said at the rally. "We're here as humans, because this is something we had to do."

That same year, Timberlake jokingly shut down rumors that he and Biel were expecting a baby or getting married. "Am I engaged? In what?" Timberlake asked Jay Leno during an appearance on "The Tonight Show." "I'm engaged in a conversation with you." He then added, "I'm not pregnant."

In 2009, Biel sat down with MTV News and laughed about her beau's comedic side. In fact, both Timberlake and Biel appeared on an episode of "Saturday Night Live" together in May of that year. "He was incredible," she said of Timberlake's skills in the episode. "He just killed it."

As their relationship seemed to push along, the couple never officially addressed rumors of a split. In fact, Biel revealed to Glamour that she and Timberlake's thriving careers kept their relationship balanced. "I guess I would say my thing is just as wonderful," Jessica said of maintaining her career alongside JT's. "And that's the only way — when you each have your own world and it's just as great."

In a subsequent interview in Vogue, Biel seemed defensive about her relationship with the star and the fact that they always had to fight breakup rumors. "I don't want to talk about it. I don't feel the need to clear anything up," she said. "It's the most precious thing that I have in my life, and I care about it so much that I don't care about what anyone says or thinks. I have just not addressed it in any real way, and I'm not going to. It's mine. And I really like that about it."

The two remained low-key and seemingly fine, especially during their last public appearance together in February, until it was confirmed that they had gone their separate ways.Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have officially broken up after four years of dating (and almost as many years of breakup rumors). Although they were spotted together at the Vanity Fair Oscar party last month, the two have decided to call it quits.

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