- Michael Jackson has written a letter to his fans to thank them for their birthday wishes and ask if they’d seen his recent spread in Italian Vogue. Jackson also says he has been “really busy lately” (working with Will.i.am, perhaps?) and promises to share “exciting and surprising news” from his “other efforts” soon.
- Christina Aguilera is working with Aretha Franklin, according to a recent interview with DJ Premier, the man responsible for producing horn-y tracks like “Ain’t No Other Man” on Aguilera’s Back to Basics. Franklin is set to release Rare & Unreleased Recordings from the Golden Reign of the Queen of Soul next week.
- Rock Daily never told you about rumors that Bono would be working with the Spice Girls — because they’re not true. U2’s manager reiterated that fact to The Sun, who also reports the girl group could find a willing collaborator in Mark Ronson (who calls “Stop” a personal favorite). The Girls will reportedly play the U.S.-televised Victoria’s Secret fashion show.
- The Police canceled two European shows after Sting’s doctors ordered him to rest his infected throat. The Black Eyed Peas also had nix a show in El Salvador after Fergie complained of food poisoning. Dates for both bands will be rescheduled.
- Have copyright-infringment lawsuits really gone too far? The U.K.-based Performing Rights Society has sued a car-repair shop claiming mechanics play their radios loud enough for others to hear, which constitutes “performance” of the music in public. The shop is, unsurprisingly, contesting the suit.
More...
