Musician’s Notebook

First of all: remember when I introduced you to the fab new UK band who’s really makin’ headlines around the music world? Many of you have already become fans of THE FORE — but now they’re in the running to become the best independent artist of 2009!
And you can vote for them! Just click this link and read how to do it!
Then, scroll down til you see the band (The Fore) and click! You’ll be given a chance to hear the music and vote (and, for you who haven’t done it yet, we hope you’ll become a fan!). That’s all there is to it! I’ll be repeating this in another post soon, btw … so be sure to tell yer friends …

Y’know, over the past few years, it’s looked as if rock has lost itself in noisier rhythm, heavy riffs and drum fills; it’s shouted, screamed, broke tempo, synthed itself and, largely, has become a bizarre emo imitation-rock. As records gave way to CDs, amps and PAs began surrendering to synthesizers and computerized loops, and “gigs” were “performed” by way of YouTubes and MySpaces, it would seem that true rock had been all but forgotten …

UNTIL …

Here it is, 2009.  In music stores, we’re starting to find turntables again … on televised talent showcases, we find more acts who’ve just put out a new 33 1/3 RPM record instead of CD …

in studios, more bands are pluggin’ into PAs and amps rather than a computer …

written, hard-copy pubs are coming back, highlighting the return of rock rather than teched-out, overlooped stuff!

Rolling Stone and USA Today have both articled that today’s teen would rather hear the Sixties-style music than the metal, alt, synth, etc.

THE FORE’s popularity is spreading like wildfire! Their music is not only raw, original rock in the vein of their FOREfathers, but they’ve paid their dues in much the same way as the Beatles and other acts of the period! The biggest similarity, though, is that these lads have come up in the same way; gigging wherever they can (whether on High Street in London, The Cavern in Liverpool or in front of thousands at festivals or other shows), and actually absorbing the same energy that the earlier bands had! And they’re getting the attention of A&R reps for large record labels now!

What I’m saying is that the best of rock-n-roll is returning to mainstream big time!! And, just as the original rock soothed the worries and sadness after November 22, 1963, this time it’s soothing the same for a world needing relief from war worries, recessions, violence, etc.

And I’ve got a feelin’ that, this time, it’s gonna stay in the FOREfront of music for a lonnnnnnng, lonnnnnnng time to come!!

Y’know, in the world of rock-n-roll … in fact, in the music world itself … there seems to be a lack of the one thing that can turn people on, get endorphins rushin’, and make life a little easier to bear.
It’s called humor.
Now, there’s no doubt that Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention had it. Their tongue-in-cheek music was a cult hit, though some of their songs were considered to “risque” in one form or another to be considered “Top 40″ material.

But there were those who could get their humor onto the radio, and with great results: From the Trashmen’s Surfin’ Bird (which, incidentally, was about a dance, but became a popular voiceunder for some of the craziest bits on television) to the most humorous songwriter of the Sixties, Roger Miller, at one point in time humor was popular.

Miller always seemed to be smiling while singing his signature hits like Dang Me, Chug-A-Lug, England Swings, You Can’t Roller Skate (in a Buffalo Herd) – even more pensive songs like One Dyin’ and A Buryin’ and Husbands and Wives. The man was one of the most likeable guys off-camera as well, and he’s sorely missed.

Another performer not only set the stage for some megafunny hits but also developed sort of a “prototype” for rap! Ray Stevens, of Ahab the Arab fame, could belt out some hilarious stuff (including Gidget the Midget, Along Came Jones and The Streak) as well as some amazing story songs like Have A Little Talk With Myself (which was covered by Sammy Davis. Jr.) and, of course, Everything Is Beautiful.
But when it came to rhyme, meter and phrasing — all in spoken-word verses — nothing could beat 1969’s Gitarzan. If you listen to rap and hip-hop today, you’ll hear exactly the same meter, the same timing … but Ray did it years before! Of course, today’s laughlord is “Weird” Al Yankovic, whose parodies of the hits-of-the-day have gone platinum!

Now, there’s one other, if you can find it (it’s on the soundtrack of Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure). Primus (with legendary bassist Les Claypool) did a song that’d come right out of a radical comic strip or cartoon. It’s called Tommy the Cat, and, when you visualize the graphics, it’s totally cool! Anyway … in this day and age, we really need a few laughs … even in our music! It’s just a matter of time before someone steps up to the plate and decides to hit with one …

Well, that’s it for this edition. Until next time, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, don’t walk into any telephone poles, though, keep your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

It’s one of the hottest radio stations on the Internet!
Express FM 93.7 is a mix of everything that’s right in the radio business!

Not only do they have some dynamite shows (I’ll get to one in particular in a moment), but they do great work for youth around the UK and the world!
Causes like their Amplify Show (sponsored by the National Youth Agency) give kids a voice. As it says on their web page:
“If you are aged between 13 & 19 then get in touch with Express FM for the opportunity to get people talking about…..whatever you want!”
And their vinvolved project (sponsored by vinspired.com) helps “to inspire, recruit and deliver hundreds of volunteer opportunities within radio for 16 – 25 year olds over the next 3 years.”

But they also rock! The famous Geoff and Andy Show (now including DJ legend Gary Jackson [see pic]) has interviewed greats like Genesis, The Drifters, Snow Patrol and Andy Fairweather Low.

Their banter, superb interview skills — and the music — all make for a dynamite show (hey … recommend these guys to a station in your area! It’ll really give a boost to their ratings!).
Recently, I had the pleasure of arranging an interview with the band that I’m proud to promote here in the states, England’s wildly popular Mersey/Hamburg-style rockers, The Fore. From top to bottom, this interview was fantastic — and fans tuned in from across the planet!

Now, I wouldn’t be fair to talk about it without givin’ you the chance to hear it, would I?? So just click here to download or listen!

So, whenever you’re lookin’ for good radio, I’m sure you can find it somewhere on the web.
But if you’re lookin’ for great radio, just click the Express FM 97 link, click on “What’s On”, then hit their “On-Air” button (to the right, top of main page).
Your ears are gonna be thrilled …

Just learned about Ozzy Osbourne’s dog — and, being a pooch-owner myself, I really feel for the guy.

Y’see, the Black Sabbath front man is in shock after finding out that his favorite bowwow, Little Bit, was eaten by a coyote!

His daughter Kelly was the one who broke the news that the pet had been taken out by the (mostly) Western dog/wolf.

She said her dad was heartbroken.

On Twitter, she said: “:( My dad’s dog Little Bit was eaten by a coyete (sic) last night in LA and he is devastated. She was his other women (sic)!”

Ozzy and wife Sharon rescued Little Bit when she (the dog) was a puppy.  She soon captured the hearts of all the Osbournes. She was saved from a puppy ranch following an investigation on National Geographic’s The Dog Whisperer (the one with Cesar Milan) and an animal welfare organization here in the states.

Earlier this year, Ozzy said that he and Sharon had eighteen dogs. He said: “We get them from the pound now. When I get home it’s like I’ve got four new dogs.”

And Sharon added: “Word’s got out in Los Angeles: ‘Anybody (who) finds a stray dog, call the Osbournes, they’ll take the dog.’”

There’s no animal that’s more likely to truly capture your heart than a dog (unless it’s a cat.  I’ve got both, and haveta be fair … especially when there’s a hungry 20-pound Bombay sittin’ on my desk, watching every word I type!).  So, to Ozzy, Sharon, Kelly and Jack (and no matter how strange you might think this sounds. Pet owners will understand …), my condolences …

Remember The Eagles’ 1990s reunion tour, Hell Freezes Over, which was given that name to recognize their spite for each other?
Well, it apparently hasn’t yet …

On a recent gig in Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland, the band showed that, while it’s still got the musical tightness and vocal blend that made it famous, the members themselves are as distant as L.A. is to Liverpool.

They changed guitars often … perhaps as a way to keep from looking at each other … and performed songs from their Long Road Out Of Eden album with the warmth and life of a piece of cardboard.

Fortunately, the band still has Joe Walsh, who seemed to be the only one really interested in the gig and its audience!
He used the slide guitar to embellish In the City, soloing with an energy the rest of the band apparently has forgotten.

Two songs later, he tore up the stage to Life’s Been Good, his 1978 reggae-influenced musical satire. The fans finally got into the groove, rocking and laughing to Joe’s humorous take on life as a “star” (he always cuts up a bit when he does the tune).
Then he broke into the boogie-woogie rhythm of the James Gang’s Funk #49 (he had been with that band prior to his stint with The Eagles), and, for a moment, the band’s mood seemed to change!

But, overall, it was business as usual for the foursome: Glenn Frey could be a bit charming but had a knack to suddenly drift into the background. You couldn’t hear Timothy Schmidt’s bass, and Don Henley just seemed more like a robot.

Their biggest hits, including Hotel California, Life in the Fast Lane and, of course, Take It Easy – were pretty much “by-the-book” but didn’t have the spark they once did. But when Walsh took to his set, it woke the crowd up and got a great response.

Bottom line: Joe still remembers how to rock … and play to the fans at the same time. He truly seems to enjoy it!

Would that the rest of the band could pick up on that.

You’ve noticed that, with every post, I always try to include a pic or two here in the Notebook. It sorta gives the blog a little more color, and you’ll know what I’m gonna be jawjackin’ about.

But, sometimes, those pics can be so humongous that I have to re-size ‘em to fit the post size.
Awww, I know you may have the same problem … and that’s why I wanna share this free app with ya. Y’see, you can avoid the hassle by downloading a little gadget called Irfanview!

Here’s how it works: Whenever I haveta send band pics to a station or A&R, and they’re too large to send by email (rule of thumb: The larger the pic you send, the more memory it uses on the recipient’s computer. Sometimes, it keeps the pic from downloading), I’ll re-size them by using this little wonder!

So I pull up the pic using Irfanview (when ya first use it, go to “Options” then “File Associations” and click the normal formats [.jpg, .gif, .bmp, .png] to be sure the files open with the app).
Then, I’ll click on “Image”, followed by “Resize/Resample”. Here, ya wanna be sure your “preserve aspect ratio” box is checked. If it is, then type in your width for a comfortable “200″ or “300″; the “height” box will automatically re-size that part for you!

After that, just click “File” and “Save” as you normally would, and it’s ready to send!
BTW, I used the Irfanview app to resize this promo pic of the famous UK indie band, THE FORE. It was originally 425×283.

So I’d really recommend gettin’ this for your PC now! Then go ahead and take all the pics you want …
Of course, there are many more things you can do with this free app, like enhancing colors, changing the pic to black-and-white and even more!

It’s high-school reunion time throughout America and, wherever you’re having yours, you know the routine:

It usually starts with an advance notice, which then builds curiosity. Then, as the day comes closer and closer, we sorta back away from it a bit because someone … somewhere in that crowd of formerly-familiar faces … might be “better” or “richer” or “better-looking” than us.  And (heaven forbid!) what … what if we ran into our old high-school sweetheart??  You know … the one who “got away” from us and married and is so in love with her new, fancy hubby?

Then, as the day draws to within shoutin’ distance, we start to feel a bit of panic … “butterflies” set in as we start our drive to the club/wherever-it’s-held.
Hey … go on in and enjoy, though — and remember:  this wing-ding only happens once every ten years!  If you’re skittish, just dig the good times and “bow out” at yer leisure …

But there’s another reunion that’s goin’ on … and this one oughtta be a doozy (okay … old word, I know, but oughtta be used at least once-in-awhile, right?).

Imagine bein’ behind the Pearly Gates right now and hearing an ageless Jimi Hendrix on lead, John Lennon on rhythm, Billy Powell on piano, Keith Moon on drums,  Sky Saxon on bass and Michael Jackson singing!  And that’s just one of the many bands at this continuing, ageless jam session!

On others, you’ll have Bobby Hatfield singing harmony, Ronnie Van Zandt or Stevie Ray Vaughan playin’ lead or rhythm, Mike Smith on piano, Mitch Mitchell drumming … or “Bonzo” Bonham, Otis Redding, James Brown or Jim Morrison singing, or even Roy Orbison … or Elvis … or, for the feminine touch, Janis Joplin. Sometimes, Buddy Holly will sit in …

And, still, there are others …

Reunions … while we look at ‘em down here with a bit of envy and (yes) even a little dread, look at what we’ve got to look forward to on the other side of the spectrum!!

Still … for your tenth, twentieth or fiftieth HS reunion, I say GO!! It’s a once-in-a-decade gig … and who knows?  By the time the next one rolls around, some of the ones you see this time might already be enjoying the Big Jam Session in the Sky!!

Count yer blessings, yardbirds … and have a great time!! And always be thankful for the legacy we rockers have been left with …

Michael Jackson’s death yesterday has brought a looming question to thousands of fans who’d already bought tickets to his O2 This Is It shows:

Are we gonna get a refund?

So far, the answer is yes … “in due course”, according to AEG Live, who was sponsoring the gigs.

As with the rest of the world, the suits-behind-the-show are still in shock after learning of the self-proclaimed “King of Pop’s” demise and, with everything else to be handled about the eternal cancellation, they’re just not ready to handle the heavy refund load.

At present, there’s $82 million to be refunded off 750,000 ticket sales. It’s one of the biggest refund efforts in the history of the concert industry, and one concert executive said it’s also the “biggest mess in the history of our business.”

Ticketmaster’s customer service line played a recorded message advising customers to “await communication” from the company regarding refunds.

It continued: “We understand this is an upsetting time for all Michael Jackson fans and we want to thank you for your patience in this matter.”

And secondary ticket service Seatwave also told fans that they’d get a full refund.

“We are all saddened by the news of Michael Jackson’s death,” said CEO and founder Joe Cohen in a statement.
“All customers who purchased tickets for his O2 shows from Seatwave are covered by our TicketCover guarantee and will get a full refund.
Full information on how to do this is on our Web site at www.seatwave.com. We advise customers to use the Web site rather than our phone lines to obtain this information.”

Look … the world needs to take time to mourn Michael’s passing, as we’d need if we’d lost a loved one.  After all, he was a member of the rock family!

Paperwork (and ticket refunds) can come when that’s done.  Agreed?? …

The new KISS album “rocks big time”, according to their guitarist Paul Stanley.

For anyone who follows the painted legends, there can be no doubt!

According to Paul’s statement on their site,  www.kissonline.com:

“We’re about four days from finishing the new Kiss album. Eleven tracks, and it is everything I’ve told you. It is classic. It is all written within the band. And it rocks big time!
“Tommy [Thayer, guitar] and Eric (Singer, drums] both handle lead vocals. The songs, sound and playing will knock your socks off. You will all be as proud and excited as we all are. Oh…and WAIT till you see the cover!
We ARE just getting started!”

The KISS armies around the world are pleased, of course … but also amazed! I mean, here’s a band who’s been around for decades but, while others from 20-years-back are drying out, these guys refresh, reinvent, or whatever, themselves to bounce back to the top again and again!

Stanley’s hyperbole was matched by bassist “Demon” Gene Simmons’s comments earlier this month:

“This might be the best new record we’ve done since [1976 album] Destroyer. In fact, it has a similar sound – Rock And Roll Over-meets-Love Gun kind of a record.”

The album, by the way, is due for release in September/October.

They’ve introduced new shoes (including a vegan line). They’ve been the subject of books. They’ve inspired a new style of punk — and are the premier band of that genre in the world.

Now Green Day takes a giant step closer to Broadway on September 4th when the Berkeley Repertory Theater in Berkeley, California — close to the 924 Gilman Street Project, the hardcore club where Green Day debuted — premieres American Idiot, a (ready?) musical-theater adaptation of the band’s hit 2004 album!

I’m told the production’s directed by the famed Michael Mayer, who won a Tony Award for the Broadway rock-musical hit Spring Awakening, and runs through October 9th.

Incidentally, front man Billy Joe Armstrong admits that the two characters (Gloria and Christian) in their newest album, 21st Century Breakdown, are actually … him! Uh-huh … both of them!

Billie Joe implied, to Boston.com, that he’s a little concerned about his mental state due to this:
“I think the people on the album are 100 per cent me. It’s just different names … there’s a yin/yang element to them - it’s a little bit schizophrenic in a lot of ways.”

Okay … that’s all from here for now. Whatcha think about it there?

When Nine Inch Nails front man Trent Reznor asked fans for help, they answered to the tune of $260,000+ in just two days to help a man in dire need of a heart transplant. As of this writing, it’s reached $850,000+!

Trent asked for donations, via his Twitter page and a special donation page on the NIN website,  to help 27 year-old Eric De La Cruz, who urgently needs a new heart but can’t get medical insurance. While Cruz’s family struggles to raise the estimated $780,000 to complete the operation, NIN fans are stepping up to help – and earning some incredible benefits.

According to the band’s website, fans who donate  $1,000 to help Cruz will get an actual Tony Hawk skateboard, autographed by Reznor as well as “a signed-by-me copy of NIN’s rarest CD release, STILL - along with CDs of The Slip and the deluxe version of Ghosts I-IV (all signed and numbered by me for this donation).

Eric’s situation shines a bright light on a broken health care system, and his particular set of problems are being addressed on the political front, aiming for reform in addition to the need for immediate financial help to keep him alive TODAY. I think we can help with the latter,’” he wrote.

Listen — if there’s any proof that rockaholics have the biggest heart of any genre, it’s this! As Reznor says on-site, “we’re showing the WORLD the power of a strong and committed community, and we’re quite possibly saving a life in the process.”

Hey … wanna get involved? Just go to their site today, okay??

He’ll be one of the last acts to ever play Giants Stadium.

And now you’ve got a chance to bid on tickets to Bruce Springsteen’s concert — and the proceeds will go to help charity!

Springsteen and the E Street Band are gonna hit the stage at the stadium on October 3, and tickets sold out in just minutes! But “The Boss” is giving you the chance to get some special tickets (in some of the best seating areas!).

Now, proceeds from the auction will go to World Hunger Year (WHY), which is an organization formed in 1975 by radio talk-show host Bill Ayres and singer/songwriter Harry Chapin (he did Cat’s In The Cradle, Taxi and W*O*L*D).
Chapin saw hunger and poverty as an insult to America, and many of his concerts were benefit shows for the charities he was known to support (82 in all!). Also, the sales of all his concert merchandise were donated directly to WHY.
At the time of his death in 1981, it was found that Chapin had donated almost all of his personal fortune to charity!

Today, WHY is an international non-profit organization that connects grass roots charities with funding expertise and publicity.

Auction winners will also receive a WHY-Hard Rock Born In The USA 25th Anniversary Limited Edition Tee-shirt, Lapel Pin and Hat.

Now, the auction is gonna run until June 29, so time’s runnin’ out, yardbirds! If you wanna bid on the tix, they can be accessed here.

Sir Paul McCartney — who’s due to play at the opening of Citi Field (the new home of the NY Mets) has added a third concert set for Tuesday, 21 July. The first two shows (on 17 & 18 July) sold out in just under five minutes!

Tickets for the additional show are on sale now, exclusively online at www.507TIXX.com or by phone at 718-507-TIXX. I’m told that all performances will be held rain or shine!

Of course, the gigs will feature classics from Macca’s extensive catalog, including Beatles, Wings and his solo career hits. He’ll also include selections from his most recent album, Electric Arguments, released under his alias of The Fireman.

These shows are gonna mark the latest in a series of shows that link the former Beatle with NYC and the home of the Mets. Beginning with The Beatles’ legendary appearance at the opening of Shea Stadium in 1965 to his special appearance at Billy Joel’s “Last Play at Shea” show that closed the stadium last year, Sir Paul’s summer shows at Citi Field will once again mark a momentous occasion in the history of New York — and for rock n’ roll itself.

Okay … that’s it for now, but stay tuned … there’s more to come in less than 24!
See ya on the flip side ….

It was a helluva band …

The year was 1966. I’d been a guitarist for about three years, and had a decent set of pipes — not like today, where my voice sounds like the mating call for bullfrogs! (Awww, it comes with age … and a lot of voicework [I've been a DJ and am now freelancing in voiceovers, as well as a lot of presswork for The Fore and rock journalism]).
My group was called Hy-Que (named — so help me — after a toy monkey that had limited “intelligence” when ya wound him up [the exact pic's on the right]. Today, I think they’re called “Republicans”), and Walt, Mick, Olin, Jimmy and I had a solid following throughout Charlotte (in fact, through the border towns of South Carolina as well).
We played various local gigs, and later, when I landed a job with The Panasonics as lead vocalist (they said I sounded like John Lennon. Or maybe it was Jack Lemmon. I don’t remember …), we got better gigs on the basis of the group I’d been with before.
Though we never cut a record deal or anything, the fact that so many kids would come out and dance at our gigs and have a good, clean time more than made up for it.
Some of our fans called it “The Hy-Que Effect”. And it felt good …

But it brings up a big question:

What’s HAPPENED to the fans of music these days? I mean, it seems like today’s rock neither has the staying power nor the excitement of our generation’s.
Usedta be that, whenever a record by The Beatles, Searchers, Stones or (yes, even) DC5 would hit the stands, kids would fall all over themselves to get it (either that or they were just clumsy …). If the bands appeared on Sullivan or Shindig, teens would be glued to the tube!

I dunno … maybe there’s just too much access these days: Ipods, YouTubes, ThemSomethings or whatever, along with the internet exposure and CDs being churned out without promoted singles might have something to do with it.
Or maybe it’s just too easy to get attention these days. Back then (and especially with the Invasion groups) you had to gain your fanbase through working small clubs, church functions, parties … wherever you could. When the apprenticeship led to headlining, you had a strong fanbase (PS This is exactly how The Fore is doing it today!!)
But largely, in 2009, it’s instant exposure …

Whatever the case, it’s good to know that our music’s comin’ back into big-time play now. Whether it’s from the Merseyside or London, Redondo Beach or Boston, the sounds are experiencing a resurgence!
I just wish there was a way to rekindle the teen fire we had back then …

Anyway, lemme close up this little “memory and wishbox” here, ’cause it’s about that time: 11 PM Eastern, 4 AM London, 3:00 in the Morning wherever Paul Simon is, and still Sleepless in Seattle.
In other words, time for this Relic to catch a sandwich, a little more work, then take it down for a few dozen zzzzz’s!
Now, if you wanna keep up with the latest buzz(es) in rock, check out my main site at Doc Rock Online!
So, until next time, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

NOTE: This is something The Relic has known and researched for years, but has only NOW been released publicly by indie sources about John, Paul, George and Ringo:

It’s been recently discovered that specific decibel levels can, in fact, spark a healing mechanism within the body chemistry that can help in various neurological and, at times, physical malfunctions. I believe it’s 25-50 Hz (if I’m wrong, I’ll update in the next post. My notes are at my other office).

But (now, get this!) the music of the early Beatles (including jumpers like Twist and Shout, Little Child, Can’t Buy Me Love, Bad Boy and others) are immensely therapeutic! (Later on, one of Macca’s comps with Wings held the distinction of inspiring people through rough emotional rides. The song? With A Little Luck.)

Anyway, listening to these songs at the recommended decibel level has been found to actually help promote healing! Besides that, they’re pretty damn good, don’tchathink?!? Take that, you televangelists-who-damned-the-Fab-Four-years-ago!! NYAH!

NOW … LOOK AT THE PIC: Y’know, it seemed everybody had his or her fave Beatle in the early days. But it was more than just “Paul is dreeeeeeeeeammy!” or “Oh, Ringo’s so kyuuuuuuuuute!!”
There’s actually a reason why we dug these guys (other than their music)!
For example, Paul was the romantic, cuddly one. Most who were romantics-at-heart wanted him (or, for the guys, to be like him)!
Then there was George. Serious, quiet, thoughtful, but witty. He fit the bill of those who were grade-conscious, serious and with a look-before-ya-leap attitude.
Ringo? Underdog, innocent, sortuva “backseat driver”. The guys (especially) who said Ringo was their fave were the ones who were like that in everyday life!

We all want role models of some type … and they provided …
waitaminnit! Didn’t I, uh, forget someone??? I mean, there were … 4 of them, as I recall:

John Lennon. Brash. Cocky. Witty. Daring. Now, this guy was the epitome of the words “mover and shaker” (and I don’t mean in just his music!). But every young teenaged male who envisioned himself as a “butt-kicker” idolized John!! He inspired courage and audacity, just as Paul inspired romanticism, George a philosophical slant and Ringo a quiet resignation.

So, to see the Beatles individually, we see the influence on a great cross-section of non-performing, teenaged male fans in their formative years! And, to improve their lot, they began studying the other three Liverpudlian wonders — and would attempt to copy their characters!

Anyway, so much for this post! It’s still kinda early, so I’m headin’ for McD’s for a burger (ANYBODY WANT ANYTHINGGGG??). B back in just a bit. Until then, keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

LONDON (Billboard) - Never mind the bullocks. There’s more money in advertising.

Johnny Rotten (and some stampeding cows) have started a moooo-ve (had so say that. Sorry …) toward punk advertising in the UK.

The Sex Pistols frontman, now known as John Lydon, stars in popular U.K. TV commercials for the butter brand Country Life. Dressed like a country gentleman, the one-time rebel is seen watching English folk dancers, running from cows and yelling, “It’s not about Great Britain — it’s about great butter!”

On other UK channels, punk forefather Iggy Pop stars in ads for the online car insurance brand Swiftcover in which the shirtless Stooges frontman declares: “You think I’m selling car insurance? I’m not — I’m selling time!”

But he is selling car insurance — and lots of it! Swiftcover says its first-quarter sales soared 31 percent over the same period last year, thanks to the ad.
And Lydon has heated up butter sales — the ad brought an 85 percent increase in sales of its “spreadable” brands in fourth-quarter 2008!

Snowy Everitt, director of the London-based marketing agency Espionage, which specializes in putting brands and music together, explained what happened:
“Punk doesn’t mean what it meant 30 years ago. For most people in 2009, punk isn’t about music, it’s about attitude. Butter isn’t fun, edgy, sexy or cool — but, in times of economic crisis, advertisers need cut-through, and anything that gets you talked about is worth a punt.”

Swiftcover marketing director Tina Shortle agrees.
“We weren’t too worried if the target audience didn’t recognize Iggy as a celebrity,” she says. “We just wanted someone renowned for having fun and enjoying life.”

“I wouldn’t be surprised if more brands looking to get cut-through go for rebellious figures,” Everitt added. “If it works, why not try it?”

Now, lemme see if I’ve got this right:

Tony Iommi, guitarist for Black Sabbath, is being sued by the rest of the band because he used its name while they had disbanded. And now they want the name back because they’ve reunited!
Without him on guitar, natch …

Sounds puzzling — but Ozzy Osbourne and the rest of the real Sabbath band are apparently going through with the lawsuit!
Here’s the petition that Ozzy had written:

‘It is with great regret that I had to resort to legal action against my long-term partner, Tony Iommi, but after three years of trying to resolve this issue amicably, I feel I have no other recourse.
‘As of the mid-1990’s, after constant and numerous changes in band members, the brand of “Black Sabbath” was literally in the toilet and Tony Iommi [touring under the name Black Sabbath] was reduced to performing in clubs.
‘Since 1997 when Geezer, Bill and myself rejoined the band, Black Sabbath has returned to its former glory as we headlined sold-out arenas and amphitheatres playing to upwards of 50,000 people at each show around the world.
‘We worked collectively to restore credibility and bring dignity back to the name “Black Sabbath” which lead to the band being inducted into the UK and US Rock And Roll Hall of Fames in 2005 and 2006, respectively.
‘Throughout the last 12 years, it was my management representatives who oversaw the marketing and quality control of the “Black Sabbath” brand through Ozzfest, touring, merchandising and album reissues.
‘The name “Black Sabbath” now has a worldwide prestige and merchandising value that it would not have had by continuing on the road it was on prior to the 1997 reunion tour.
‘Tony, I am so sorry it’s had to get to this point by me having to take this action against you. I don’t have the right to speak for Geezer and Bill, but I feel that morally and ethically the trademark should be owned by the four of us equally.
‘I hope that by me taking this first step that it will ultimately end up that way.
‘We’ve all worked too hard and long in our careers to allow you to sell merchandise that features all our faces, old Black Sabbath album covers and band logos, and then you tell us that you own the copyright.
‘We’re all in our 60s now. The Black Sabbath legacy should live on long after we have all gone. Please do the right thing.’

So what do you think? If Iommi, in fact, does own the copyright, should he go through all the legal rigamarole to get it switched back over to the band?
Or, as some bands already do, should Sabbath maybe tweak their name a little, like “The Original Sabbath” or something?

Alice Cooper recorded under their banner … as did Mӧtorhead, Whitesnake, Blackmore’s Night and UFO.

But now it’s been learned that the German record label SPV (the home of many hard rock and metal bands) has just filed for insolvency.

According to the Billboard report, Manfred Schütz,, the label’s managing partner, decided to submit an application to commence insolvency proceedings on May 25 (it’s like Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection here in the states).
But there’s still good news: “Normal business will continue even after the application for insolvency,” Schütz is quoted as saying.

Everything — from pre-to-post production to sales and promotions — will continue as it normally does.
The purpose of the insolvency (now in progress) is to make it possible for the label to continue while working on a restructuring plan.

But there are other recording companies interested in buying SPV, though no names have been mentioned yet.

TONIGHT SHOW FINALE?

Make no mistake about it: When Jay Leno leaves the Tonight Show … well, tonight …, he’s gonna leave a bag of mixed feelings behind.

Some are gonna shed a few tears, remembering his ebullient nature, occasionally ribald jokes and, of course, that famous chin. But there’s also gonna be a bit of comfort in knowing that he will be back this Fall — albeit in an earlier time slot.

Personally, I think it could possibly be (as said in the subtitle up there) the finale of the show-that-Carson-built, at least in the long run.
Now, don’t get me wrong: Leno’s successor, Conan O’Brien, is one of the best improv comedians in the world. But will his zany, cartoon-like character actually fit in with the show’s legendary format?

I know … Craig Ferguson does it, and he’s wildly popular. But, then again, the show was built around him, having some serious rating troubles under Craig Kilborn’s hosting.
Here, you have a long-time standard, though. From the days when Steve Allen and Jack Paar hosted it through today, they’ve been somewhat formulaic — and, over the years, viewers have learned to expect that.

Maybe Conan will adapt — who knows? But, if he doesn’t, the only thing that’ll keep the show strong (in my opinion) is a gradual ease into the same style he used on his former late-night show (now hosted by Jimmy Fallon).

Nonetheless, as we bid Jay a fond “farewell” from the show, we wish Conan the best …

Amy Winehouse, The Killers and The Rolling Stones have decided to work with a group of Cuban musicians on an album that’s being recorded to fight climate change.

They’ll perform duets with Rhythms Del Mundo on the CD, titled Classics, and the proceeds from the album will go to fund climate change projects as well as natural disaster relief around the globe.

The album will have some spectacular musical moments with The Killers singing The Eagles’ Hotel California, and The Rolling Stones doing The Drifters’ classic Under the Boardwalk.
But you’ll also hear Winehouse’s covering Sam Cooke’s Cupid and, on a track that’s destined to stand out,  Fall Out Boy and John Mayer getting together to cover Michael Jackson’s Beat It.

The first Rhythms Del Mundo album was released three years ago and included an all-star cast of Cuban musicians as well as the Arctic Monkeys, Dido, U2, Coldplay, Sting, Jack Johnson, Maroon 5, Franz Ferdinand and Kaiser Chiefs. Proceeds from the CD went to the non-profit environmental  org,  Artists Project Earth.

The new CD is due for release in July.

As many of you know if you’ve been readin’ this site (and I hope ya have), Yoko Ono’s humongous jigsaw puzzle mural, called Promise, has been auctioned piece by piece to raise money for the cause, Autism Speaks. The pieces of art were unveiled last month on the United Nation’s World Autism Awareness Day.

Yoko explained the mural’s white clouds on blue sky, already missing some pieces: “Once the solution for autism is discovered, we will see the sky shimmering in its original beauty, with no holes.”

The 67-piece puzzle certainly has significance, according to her long-time friend, Peter Brown. “She met John (Lennon) in ’67 and, coincidentally, there are an estimated 67 million people around the world with Autism.”

Autism is a complex neurological disorder that effects language development and the ability to have social relationships. Autism Speaks funds research into its causes, preventions, treatments and support for families affected by it. The charity also raises awareness, and attention is exactly what autism is getting.

On World Autism Awareness Day, many world leaders spoke out. President Barack Obama issued this statement:
“…We must build a world free of unnecessary barriers, stereotypes and discrimination. Policies must be developed, attitudes must be shaped, and we must ensure that everyone has the chance to live independently as full citizens in their communities. For too long, the needs of people and families living with autism have gone unrecognized and underappreciated. That is why my administration supports increased funding for autism research, treatment, screening, public awareness, and services for Autism Spectrum Disorders.”

Now, while people are getting more involved with the fight against and cure for Autism (and we all should be), there’s something refreshing happening here: Many are beginning to see Yoko Ono Lennon in a different … and positive … sense!

No longer is she “the one who broke up the Beatles” (PS. She wasn’t. This was determined solely by John, Ringo and George [Paul was the only holdout]).
Today, the lady is constantly working with charities (such as the AIDS Tees and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital) and peace movements like Acorn Peace (which re-enacted the 1969 event, an international plea for peace).
She’s shown a tremendous interest in up-and-coming musicians as well (including The Fore).

So it’s time for the world-at-large to rethink its position on Yoko Ono Lennon, and realize that this woman is, in fact, what John told us all those years ago: SINCERELY GENUINE!

Singer Katy Perry has joined with Cyndi Lauper, Yoko Ono and hip hop group N.E.R.D. to design T-shirts as part of H&M’s second Fashion Against AIDS collection.

H&M, a chain of 1,500 stores spread across 28 countries, has joined together with Designers Against AIDS to launch Fashion Against AIDS, a clothing collection for men and women, designed to draw attention to HIV/AIDS and increase awareness of the disease. Last year’s campaign featured Timbaland, Good Charlotte, Rihanna, and Ziggy Marley who created a special selection of T-shirts, tank tops, and hooded sweatshirts that use color and style to highlight the cause.

For the 2009 Fashion Against AIDS collection, the message is loud and clear with bold language and vibrant colors.

• Roisin Murphy’s t-shirt is bold with the phrase “Protection is power” on the front and back of a men’s t-shirt and a women’s bodysuit.
• N.E.R.D uses a clever graphic to shout “use your brain” on vibrant tank tops and t-shirts for both men and women.
• Estelle designed a tank top with the slogan “LIFE IS TOO SHORT – HAVE SEX BE SAFE” next to a sassy silhouette of an empowered woman.
• Katy Perry’s clever safe sex message, “WHAT’S ON THE OUTSIDE IS WHAT COUNTS,” appears on both a bodysuit and a cap-sleeved shirt.
• In a nostalgic nod to her roots, “GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE SAFE SEX” is scribbled in pink lipstick on Cyndi Lauper’s t-shirt.
• Others include Yoko Ono’s design of the words “IMAGINE PEACE” in multiple languages and Robyn’s feisty “PROTECT YOUR BODY.”Dita von Teese, an avid supporter of AIDS causes, created an alluring image of her iconic red lips and arched brow on a cute cap-sleeved T: “It is really great that H&M continues to educate its customers and the world about HIV/AIDS with their campaign Fashion Against AIDS. We must never give up the fight against this horrible disease and we must constantly remind each other not to become apathetic or careless. The war on HIV/AIDS must continue.”

  25% of the sales price will be donated to HIV/AIDS prevention projects of Designers against AIDS, UNFPA, MTV’s Staying Alive Foundation and YouthAIDS.

  This year’s T-shirt designs will hit stores on May 28.

If you remember, last year rock superstars Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood got together for a three-night gigs at Madison Square Garden.

Now, the duo’s bringing their combined sounds to the rest of America on a 14-date arena tour. They’ve even worked up some new material for this outing.

“I’d like to try my song ‘Help Me Angel,’ “ says Winwood. “And last year, I was having trouble singing harmony while playing guitar on Eric’s ‘Pretending.’ I’d like to have another go at that.”

WHERE TO CATCH THE SHOW:

6/10 – East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center
6/12 – Philadelphia, PA @Wachovia Center
6/13 – Washington, DC @ Verizon Center
6/15 – Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center
6/17 – Chicago, IL @ United Center
6/18 – St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center
6/20 – Omaha, NE @ Qwest Center
6/21 – Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center
6/23 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center
6/24 – Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
6/26 – Glendale, AZ @ Jobing.com Arena
6/27 – Las Vegas, NV @MGM Grand Arena
6/29 – Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena
6/30 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl

And I see where some webwatchers are reporting that Jane’s Addiction front man Perry Farrell was seen using a teleprompter during a recent show. Whether that’s true or just another turn of the rumor millstone is yet to be determined.
But it’s really not unusual. For decades, performers from all genres have had teleprompters on the stage floor, near the edge, to help them (and before that, real people with cue cards)! As long as it doesn’t stop the music, right??

Sometimes, an article comes along that … well, it just begs reprinting. This is especially true of one that deals with the courage of a musician who’s terminally ill, yet is determined to continue his craft.
So, though it’s a bit lengthy, I hope you’ll read this whole post (reprinted from its source) and get some inspiration out of it:

EAST LANSING, Mich. /Music Industry Newswire/ — Ace Noface, a 38 year old man with Lou Gehrig’s disease, today announces the release of a piano rock CD, “Toxic Charm.” His goal is to leave a musical legacy behind, and raise awareness of ALS. May is ALS awareness month. Words like “inspiring” get used so casually that their meaning loses power. But in the case of Ace Noface, and his new album, Toxic Charm, one immediately becomes present to the true meaning of words like inspiration and courage.
The musician, living with a terminal illness, is facing his fate with courage and conviction by creating rich and resonant piano-based rock that is in turn hypnotic, jarring and spellbinding. Ace’s life and music is the ultimate example of living what is possible in the face of any circumstance.
Listening to Toxic Charm, you can hear the plaintive vocals, the resonance of the piano and the rolling presence of the rhythm section - it’s a huge sound for such few instruments, but it makes sense, given that Ace makes the most of what he’s got.
At one time the bassist for an indie-rock band, in 2005, Ace was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, better known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, an incurable and degenerative neurological disorder. The diagnosis, obviously, was devastating. Ace remembers, “I really shut down for six months. I spent most of my days playing on the Internet and listening to music - I couldn’t deal.”
But a musician friend took a stand for Ace, and informed him what might be possible. “He told me that even though I couldn’t play an instrument anymore, I had to continue making music,” Ace recalls. “He said that he knew that was what I had to do to make some sense of the diagnosis and give meaning to the rest of my life, as opposed to just suffering. So I developed a sense of purpose for my life - probably more than any other time.”
To begin, Ace had to learn a whole new way of making music; using one finger, some computer software and email. It was a daunting task, but Ace quickly found a benefit. He explains, “When I’m writing music or lyrics I completely get lost in it - I forget that I have any kind of disability.”

The example of his work, his defiance in the face of a grim fate, and the songs on Toxic Charm that will be his legacy. Ace concludes, “When faced with a difficult situation, everyone has a choice to make - to let it define you as a person, or make the most of the time you have left. What I’m committed to leaving behind as a legacy is the truth I’ve learned: Anyone can achieve their dream, no matter what the circumstances.”