Taylor Swift is on top of the world. Her Eras Tour was the biggest concert event of the year, the filmed version dominated the big screen box office earlier this month, and her personal life has crossed over from the entertainment page to the sports page. However, an ongoing lawsuit brought by songwriters Sean Hall and Nathan Butler has been a thorn in her side for years. The writers have taken issue with Swift’s hit song “Shake it Off” and a new CNN documentary about the case called “Taking on Taylor Swift” premieres on Max on Friday, Oct. 20; no Swiftie will want to miss this in-depth look at the controversy. You can watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of Max.
How to Watch 'Taking on Taylor Swift' When: Friday, October 20, 2023 Where: Max Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of Max. 7-Day Free Trial$9.99+ / month Max via amazon.com
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How to Watch 'Taking on Taylor Swift' When: Friday, October 20, 2023 Where: Max Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of Max. 7-Day Free Trial$9.99+ / month Max via amazon.com
Get...
- 10/20/2023
- by Matt Tamanini
- The Streamable
As Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour expands around the globe and onto the silver screen, CNN’s investigation into the copyright lawsuit brought by songwriters Sean Hall and Nathan Butler against Swift for her hit song “Shake it Off” will stream on Max in Taking On Taylor Swift. Produced by the CNN FlashDocs unit, the special explores creativity, credit, and the hazy line between cultural appreciation and appropriation. Taking On Taylor Swift will be available to stream this Friday, October 20 on Max.
The 2017 lawsuit, which was settled and dismissed in 2022, alleged the chorus of Swift’s hit song, “Shake It Off” is a direct lift from the 2000 song, “Playas Gon’ Play” written by Hall and Butler, and made famous by the girl group, 3Lw. For the first time since taking legal action, Hall spoke exclusively to CNN, along with his attorney Marina V. Bogorad, about their experience taking on...
The 2017 lawsuit, which was settled and dismissed in 2022, alleged the chorus of Swift’s hit song, “Shake It Off” is a direct lift from the 2000 song, “Playas Gon’ Play” written by Hall and Butler, and made famous by the girl group, 3Lw. For the first time since taking legal action, Hall spoke exclusively to CNN, along with his attorney Marina V. Bogorad, about their experience taking on...
- 10/19/2023
- by TV Shows Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid - TV
Los Angeles magazine has signed with CAA for representation.
The magazine is owned by Engine Vision Media, a company headed by power lawyers Ben Meiselas and Mark Geragos. The duo bought Los Angeles in December 2022 from Detroit-based Hour Media; the deal also included Pasadena and Orange Coast magazines.
CAA will work with the magazine to adapt its stories into scripted and unscripted series and films, along with other media formats.
“I am thrilled to partner with CAA to bring the most interesting stories about the greatest city in the world to an even bigger audience,” Meiselas said in a statement. “CAA is the best in the business.”
Christopher Gialanella is the publisher of Los Angeles, and Shirley Halperin is editor-in-chief. Halperin, former executive editor of music at Variety, joined the magazine in June, taking over for Maer Roshan (who was recently named co-editor-in-chief of The Hollywood Reporter).
Los Angeles has...
The magazine is owned by Engine Vision Media, a company headed by power lawyers Ben Meiselas and Mark Geragos. The duo bought Los Angeles in December 2022 from Detroit-based Hour Media; the deal also included Pasadena and Orange Coast magazines.
CAA will work with the magazine to adapt its stories into scripted and unscripted series and films, along with other media formats.
“I am thrilled to partner with CAA to bring the most interesting stories about the greatest city in the world to an even bigger audience,” Meiselas said in a statement. “CAA is the best in the business.”
Christopher Gialanella is the publisher of Los Angeles, and Shirley Halperin is editor-in-chief. Halperin, former executive editor of music at Variety, joined the magazine in June, taking over for Maer Roshan (who was recently named co-editor-in-chief of The Hollywood Reporter).
Los Angeles has...
- 9/14/2023
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Variety won 14 first-place awards Sunday night at the Los Angeles Press Club’s 65th annual SoCal Journalism Awards, more than twice as many as any other entertainment publication.
The 14 awards represented a historic high for Variety at the SoCal Journalism Awards, topping the previous best of 12 first-place prizes the magazine earned in 2018. Variety came into Sunday’s ceremony with a record 96 nominations, representing work published online and in print during the 2022 calendar year.
The awards were handed out during a gala dinner attended by hundreds in the historic Crystal Ballroom at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
Several staffers won dual honors. Owen Gleiberman, Variety‘s chief film critic, won best obituary/appreciation for a look back at actor William Hurt, plus best online arts commentary for the column “Is ‘Tar’ Rooting for or Against Cate Blanchett’s Superstar Predator Conductor?” Chris Willman, senior writer and chief music critic,...
The 14 awards represented a historic high for Variety at the SoCal Journalism Awards, topping the previous best of 12 first-place prizes the magazine earned in 2018. Variety came into Sunday’s ceremony with a record 96 nominations, representing work published online and in print during the 2022 calendar year.
The awards were handed out during a gala dinner attended by hundreds in the historic Crystal Ballroom at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
Several staffers won dual honors. Owen Gleiberman, Variety‘s chief film critic, won best obituary/appreciation for a look back at actor William Hurt, plus best online arts commentary for the column “Is ‘Tar’ Rooting for or Against Cate Blanchett’s Superstar Predator Conductor?” Chris Willman, senior writer and chief music critic,...
- 6/26/2023
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has promoted Jem Aswad to lead all music content across digital, print and live media platforms as executive editor, music.
Aswad will oversee all aspects of Variety‘s music-related editorial operations and staff. He will also continue to serve as Variety‘s leading voice on the business of music, penning cover stories, deep-dive features, investigative stories, personality profiles and reviews. With his promotion, Aswad will also help steer Variety‘s music-related event franchises, including Hitmakers and Music Mogul of the Year, and contribute significantly to developing music programming for live media events.
Aswad is based in Variety‘s New York office and reports to co-editors in chief Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh. Shirley Halperin, Variety’s executive editor, music since 2017, is stepping down to become editor in chief of Los Angeles magazine.
“We could not be more excited to announce that Jem will be leading Variety’s music team,...
Aswad will oversee all aspects of Variety‘s music-related editorial operations and staff. He will also continue to serve as Variety‘s leading voice on the business of music, penning cover stories, deep-dive features, investigative stories, personality profiles and reviews. With his promotion, Aswad will also help steer Variety‘s music-related event franchises, including Hitmakers and Music Mogul of the Year, and contribute significantly to developing music programming for live media events.
Aswad is based in Variety‘s New York office and reports to co-editors in chief Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh. Shirley Halperin, Variety’s executive editor, music since 2017, is stepping down to become editor in chief of Los Angeles magazine.
“We could not be more excited to announce that Jem will be leading Variety’s music team,...
- 5/9/2023
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Los Angeles Magazine has found its new editor-in-chief: Shirley Halperin.
The respected music industry insider is exiting as executive editor of music at Variety, a post she’s held since 2017, to join L.A. Mag, effective June 15. She’s replacing Maer Roshan who was ousted a month ago by bosses at parent company Engine Vision Media in what has been viewed as a shift in direction for the publication under newly-installed president and publisher Christopher Gialanella.
In confirming the hiring, Engine Vision’s press release noted that Halperin will be tasked with shaping Los Angeles‘ “vision for the future, with a particular emphasis on news and culture.” Furthermore, it stated that Halperin will “lead efforts to celebrate the city’s diversity while keeping current events, politics and sports related to the area relevant. Additionally, she will continue to touch on entertainment, music, society, lifestyle, dining, home, real estate and fashion,...
The respected music industry insider is exiting as executive editor of music at Variety, a post she’s held since 2017, to join L.A. Mag, effective June 15. She’s replacing Maer Roshan who was ousted a month ago by bosses at parent company Engine Vision Media in what has been viewed as a shift in direction for the publication under newly-installed president and publisher Christopher Gialanella.
In confirming the hiring, Engine Vision’s press release noted that Halperin will be tasked with shaping Los Angeles‘ “vision for the future, with a particular emphasis on news and culture.” Furthermore, it stated that Halperin will “lead efforts to celebrate the city’s diversity while keeping current events, politics and sports related to the area relevant. Additionally, she will continue to touch on entertainment, music, society, lifestyle, dining, home, real estate and fashion,...
- 5/8/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Variety won 22 National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards at a ceremony in Universal City Sunday night, including a staff win for for entertainment website of the year. The 22 trophies represented the most scored by any publication at the event.
Also scoring top honors were deputy music editor Jem Aswad, winning online journalist of the year, and Elizabeth Wagmeister and Clayton Davis, co-hosts of “Variety’s The Take,” as anchor/hosts of the year.
The 15th annual awards, presented by the Los Angeles Press Club for work in national and local publications from July 2021 through June 2022, were handed out at the Universal Sheraton Hotel’s Grand Ballroom.
Tying for the most wins — four apiece — were Aswad and senior music writer and chief music critic Chris Willman. Close behind was chief correspondent Wagmeister, who scored three wins during the ceremony. Five staffers scored two awards each: senior vice president Tim Gray, executive editor of music Shirley Halperin,...
Also scoring top honors were deputy music editor Jem Aswad, winning online journalist of the year, and Elizabeth Wagmeister and Clayton Davis, co-hosts of “Variety’s The Take,” as anchor/hosts of the year.
The 15th annual awards, presented by the Los Angeles Press Club for work in national and local publications from July 2021 through June 2022, were handed out at the Universal Sheraton Hotel’s Grand Ballroom.
Tying for the most wins — four apiece — were Aswad and senior music writer and chief music critic Chris Willman. Close behind was chief correspondent Wagmeister, who scored three wins during the ceremony. Five staffers scored two awards each: senior vice president Tim Gray, executive editor of music Shirley Halperin,...
- 12/5/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Chris Willman, one of the industry’s most-respected music journalists, has been promoted to Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic for Variety.
Willman is a key player in Variety‘s breaking news coverage with an emphasis on country, Americana and roots artists and well as touring and venues. The promotion to Chief Music Critic recognizes his role in steering Variety‘s critical commentary on music and music-related media.
“Having long been a fan of Chris Willman’s writing, it thrills me that Variety will continue to be his home,” said Shirley Halperin, Variety‘s Executive Editor of Music. “With this promotion, his music criticism will get the bigger spotlight it deserves.”
Willman’s promotion comes as Variety is expanding its music team with the appointment of Thania Garcia as associate editor of music.
Since joining Variety in September 2018, Willman has won nine first-place awards from the Los Angeles Press Club.
Willman is a key player in Variety‘s breaking news coverage with an emphasis on country, Americana and roots artists and well as touring and venues. The promotion to Chief Music Critic recognizes his role in steering Variety‘s critical commentary on music and music-related media.
“Having long been a fan of Chris Willman’s writing, it thrills me that Variety will continue to be his home,” said Shirley Halperin, Variety‘s Executive Editor of Music. “With this promotion, his music criticism will get the bigger spotlight it deserves.”
Willman’s promotion comes as Variety is expanding its music team with the appointment of Thania Garcia as associate editor of music.
Since joining Variety in September 2018, Willman has won nine first-place awards from the Los Angeles Press Club.
- 3/31/2022
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Ramin Setoodeh will be elevated to Co-Editor-In-Chief of Variety in the coming months, working alongside world-class journalist Cynthia Littleton to lead the editorial operations of the venerable entertainment business news brand. Littleton and Setoodeh will co-run the newsroom and oversee editorial activities across all Variety platforms.
“Cynthia is one of the most intelligent and highly-regarded journalists in the industry. She possesses a rare mixture of kindness, deep integrity, professionalism and killer journalistic instincts. Her world-class business reporting coupled with Ramin’s talent shaping Variety’s key content franchises make them the definition of a power duo. I look forward to seeing them lead the newsroom,” said Jay Penske, Chairman, Founder and CEO of Penske Media.
Littleton and Setoodeh will report to Michelle Sobrino-Stearns, Variety‘s President and Group Publisher.
Littleton has been Co-Editor-In-Chief of Variety since October 2020, when it was announced that she would move into the top editorial post in 2022. Previously,...
“Cynthia is one of the most intelligent and highly-regarded journalists in the industry. She possesses a rare mixture of kindness, deep integrity, professionalism and killer journalistic instincts. Her world-class business reporting coupled with Ramin’s talent shaping Variety’s key content franchises make them the definition of a power duo. I look forward to seeing them lead the newsroom,” said Jay Penske, Chairman, Founder and CEO of Penske Media.
Littleton and Setoodeh will report to Michelle Sobrino-Stearns, Variety‘s President and Group Publisher.
Littleton has been Co-Editor-In-Chief of Variety since October 2020, when it was announced that she would move into the top editorial post in 2022. Previously,...
- 1/10/2022
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety took home 20 top honors at Friday’s National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, including the wins for best entertainment website, podcast host, best headline and for music and theater criticism.
The virtual ceremony was hosted by comedian Alonzo Bodden. This year’s Veritas Award for film from the Los Angeles Press Club went to Netflix’s “The Trial of the Chicago 7.”
Variety was nominated for a record 99 National Arts and Entertainment Journalism awards. Organizers noted that total submissions for the awards topped more than 1,000 for the first time.
Variety‘s wins demonstrated the range of coverage offered by the global entertainment news source over a turbulent year.
The music criticism victory went to deputy music editor Jem Aswad for “Phoebe Bridgers’ ‘Punisher,’ ‘Grammy Salute to Prince.'”
Aswad also won for arts feature under 1,000 words for “What’s Next for Lockdown Live Music?” And Aswad shared a third win with Shirley Halperin,...
The virtual ceremony was hosted by comedian Alonzo Bodden. This year’s Veritas Award for film from the Los Angeles Press Club went to Netflix’s “The Trial of the Chicago 7.”
Variety was nominated for a record 99 National Arts and Entertainment Journalism awards. Organizers noted that total submissions for the awards topped more than 1,000 for the first time.
Variety‘s wins demonstrated the range of coverage offered by the global entertainment news source over a turbulent year.
The music criticism victory went to deputy music editor Jem Aswad for “Phoebe Bridgers’ ‘Punisher,’ ‘Grammy Salute to Prince.'”
Aswad also won for arts feature under 1,000 words for “What’s Next for Lockdown Live Music?” And Aswad shared a third win with Shirley Halperin,...
- 4/10/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has been nominated for 99 National Art and Entertainment Journalism awards, a record-breaking number of nominations for the publication.
“This is an amazing achievement by our stellar team of journalists, accomplished during the most challenging year any of us have ever experienced,” said Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief of Variety.
Variety was nominated for print entertainment publication for its April 29 issue, “The Great Depression,” as well as entertainment website for Variety.com. Features editor Chris Willman was nominated for print journalist of the year, while deputy music editor Jem Aswad and senior correspondent Elizabeth Wagmeister both earned nods for online journalist of the year.
Variety‘s art department earned two nominations for illustration and one for cover art. Deputy art director Haley Kluge, creative director Raul Aguila and Mercedes DeBellard earned a nod for their “Jennifer Aniston” illustration, and Kluge, Aguila and Jen Mann also received an illustration nomination for “Sandra Oh.
“This is an amazing achievement by our stellar team of journalists, accomplished during the most challenging year any of us have ever experienced,” said Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief of Variety.
Variety was nominated for print entertainment publication for its April 29 issue, “The Great Depression,” as well as entertainment website for Variety.com. Features editor Chris Willman was nominated for print journalist of the year, while deputy music editor Jem Aswad and senior correspondent Elizabeth Wagmeister both earned nods for online journalist of the year.
Variety‘s art department earned two nominations for illustration and one for cover art. Deputy art director Haley Kluge, creative director Raul Aguila and Mercedes DeBellard earned a nod for their “Jennifer Aniston” illustration, and Kluge, Aguila and Jen Mann also received an illustration nomination for “Sandra Oh.
- 2/15/2021
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has promoted writers Matt Donnelly and Elaine Low and editor Jazz Tangcay.
The promotions come as Variety is expanding the scope of its multiplatform editorial operations to better capture all aspects of the global entertainment business. Donnelly, Low and Tangcay are part of a growing team around the world delivering breaking news, analysis, data and deep dives to guide the industry through a period of unprecedented transformation.
“There is nothing more gratifying than to see our reporters and editors continuing to push themselves and grow their knowledge of this swiftly evolving media universe,” said Claudia Eller, Editor-in-Chief of Variety. “We are incredibly proud to work with Matt, Elaine and Jazz, all of whom are so talented and devoted to their work.”
Donnelly has advanced to Senior Entertainment and Media Writer. He will focus on news and analysis about the film and TV industries, particularly the inner workings of the Hollywood creative community.
The promotions come as Variety is expanding the scope of its multiplatform editorial operations to better capture all aspects of the global entertainment business. Donnelly, Low and Tangcay are part of a growing team around the world delivering breaking news, analysis, data and deep dives to guide the industry through a period of unprecedented transformation.
“There is nothing more gratifying than to see our reporters and editors continuing to push themselves and grow their knowledge of this swiftly evolving media universe,” said Claudia Eller, Editor-in-Chief of Variety. “We are incredibly proud to work with Matt, Elaine and Jazz, all of whom are so talented and devoted to their work.”
Donnelly has advanced to Senior Entertainment and Media Writer. He will focus on news and analysis about the film and TV industries, particularly the inner workings of the Hollywood creative community.
- 2/9/2021
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Music may be an auditory medium, but its role is an integral ingredient in the success of visual projects in TV, films and commercials. Singers, composers, music bookers and others working in this intersection joined Variety in the virtual Music for Screens Week from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3, sharing their expertise on the importance of music in recent projects. Covering topics from talk shows to composition for 2020’s critically praised “Mank,” the professionals provided valuable insight into music’s role in the industry.
Read below for a list of 10 takeaways from the Music for Screens Week.
Filmmakers Recognize Music as a Strong Storytelling Device
“I have not come into contact with a director who doesn’t know the power of music and storytelling,” said Germaine Franco, composer for films like “Someone Great.”
During the State of Scoring Composers Panel, presented by ASCAP, Franco and other composers discussed the increasing experimentation in film and TV scores.
Read below for a list of 10 takeaways from the Music for Screens Week.
Filmmakers Recognize Music as a Strong Storytelling Device
“I have not come into contact with a director who doesn’t know the power of music and storytelling,” said Germaine Franco, composer for films like “Someone Great.”
During the State of Scoring Composers Panel, presented by ASCAP, Franco and other composers discussed the increasing experimentation in film and TV scores.
- 12/5/2020
- by Eli Countryman
- Variety Film + TV
Sia first announced her plans for her directorial debut, “Music” at the 2015 Venice Film Festival. But the story germinated over fifteen years ago when she penned the short story, still the “Chandelier” singer tells Variety’s Executive Editor of Music Shirley Halperin that she never saw herself as a director.
Speaking as part of Variety’s Power of Women: Conversations, presented by Lifetime, Sia talked about how fellow screenwriter Dallas Clayton helped her find the confidence to direct. “I thought, ‘How hard could this be, it’s like making a music video but every day for 40 days?'”
“Music,” stars Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Kate Hudson. The film also stars Tony and Grammy Award winner Leslie Odom Jr., alongside Sia protégé and breakout star Maddie Ziegler (the upcoming “West Side Story”).
Hudson plays the free-spirited Zu estranged from her family, who suddenly finds herself the sole guardian of her half-sister,...
Speaking as part of Variety’s Power of Women: Conversations, presented by Lifetime, Sia talked about how fellow screenwriter Dallas Clayton helped her find the confidence to direct. “I thought, ‘How hard could this be, it’s like making a music video but every day for 40 days?'”
“Music,” stars Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Kate Hudson. The film also stars Tony and Grammy Award winner Leslie Odom Jr., alongside Sia protégé and breakout star Maddie Ziegler (the upcoming “West Side Story”).
Hudson plays the free-spirited Zu estranged from her family, who suddenly finds herself the sole guardian of her half-sister,...
- 10/28/2020
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
The Paley Center for Media said that PaleyFest LA will go virtual for the first time because of the coronavirus pandemic, setting its 2020 edition for August with a guest lineup for 10 series that includes Cate Blanchett, Justin Bieber and Dolly Parton and moderators including Stacey Abrams and Martha Raddatz. The event was originally scheduled to take place in mid-March at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
The festival will be available to view by Citi cardmembers and Paley members beginning August 7, with panels available to the public August 10. All will be hosted on the Paley Center’s YouTube channel. Citi is an official sponsor of the event.
The lineup announced today featured changes from the one originally unveiled in January. Remaining are Netflix’s Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings and Ozark, Starz’s Outlander and Pop TV’s One Day at a Time and Schitt’s Creek. They are joined by YouTube’s Justin Bieber: Seasons,...
The festival will be available to view by Citi cardmembers and Paley members beginning August 7, with panels available to the public August 10. All will be hosted on the Paley Center’s YouTube channel. Citi is an official sponsor of the event.
The lineup announced today featured changes from the one originally unveiled in January. Remaining are Netflix’s Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings and Ozark, Starz’s Outlander and Pop TV’s One Day at a Time and Schitt’s Creek. They are joined by YouTube’s Justin Bieber: Seasons,...
- 7/27/2020
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
The Paley Center for Media’s annual PaleyFest television festival is joining the ever-growing list of events pivoting to virtual production amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Among the series taking part in this first-ever PaleyFest are YouTube’s “Justin Bieber: Seasons” (moderated by Variety‘s own Shirley Halperin), NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” Amazon Prime Video’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” FX on Hulu’s “Mrs. America,” Pop TV’s “One Day at a Time” and “Schitt’s Creek,” Starz’s “Outlander” and a trio of shows from Netflix: “Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings,” “Ozark” and “Queer Eye.”
All panels will stream on the Paley Center’s YouTube channel, available first to Paley Center and Citi card members on Aug. 7 (Citi is the festival’s official sponsor), and then to the general public on Aug. 10. Notably, though, the “Schitt’s Creek” panel, will be a members-only event.
“PaleyFest LA has been...
Among the series taking part in this first-ever PaleyFest are YouTube’s “Justin Bieber: Seasons” (moderated by Variety‘s own Shirley Halperin), NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” Amazon Prime Video’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” FX on Hulu’s “Mrs. America,” Pop TV’s “One Day at a Time” and “Schitt’s Creek,” Starz’s “Outlander” and a trio of shows from Netflix: “Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings,” “Ozark” and “Queer Eye.”
All panels will stream on the Paley Center’s YouTube channel, available first to Paley Center and Citi card members on Aug. 7 (Citi is the festival’s official sponsor), and then to the general public on Aug. 10. Notably, though, the “Schitt’s Creek” panel, will be a members-only event.
“PaleyFest LA has been...
- 7/27/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
The definitive holiday song of the past 25 years will finally get its story told. On Wednesday, Amazon released the trailer for a new mini-documentary, Mariah Carey Is Christmas! The short film will dive into the history of the pop star’s smash hit turned holiday classic from 1994, “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”
In addition to an interview with Carey herself, the documentary will also feature insights from producer Randy Jackson, Variety music editor Shirley Halperin, Billboard charts director Gary Trust and Carey’s long-time backup singer Trey Lorenz.
In addition to an interview with Carey herself, the documentary will also feature insights from producer Randy Jackson, Variety music editor Shirley Halperin, Billboard charts director Gary Trust and Carey’s long-time backup singer Trey Lorenz.
- 12/4/2019
- by Claire Shaffer
- Rollingstone.com
Scooter Braun has kept silent about a dispute with Taylor Swift following his Ithaca Holdings company acquiring her former label, Big Machine Label Group, over the summer. On Thursday, he addressed the issue without naming the pop star during a Q&a with Shirley Halperin, Variety‘s executive editor of music, at the 2019 Entertainment Industry Conference, Variety reports.
“I haven’t talked about this in six months. Not once. I haven’t made a statement about it,” Braun said. “When there’s a lot of things being said and a lot of different opinions,...
“I haven’t talked about this in six months. Not once. I haven’t made a statement about it,” Braun said. “When there’s a lot of things being said and a lot of different opinions,...
- 11/22/2019
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Musician and actor Troye Sivan will be honored with Variety’s Creative Conscience in Film Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival on Friday, Jan. 4, at the annual 10 Directors to Watch Brunch, presented by At&T at the Parker Palm Springs Hotel.
Sivan is being recognized for his work in “Boy Erased,” the story of the gay son of a small-town Baptist preacher who escapes from the horrible reality of conversion therapy. As well as playing the part of Gary in the film, Sivan co-wrote and performed original song “Revelation” for the soundtrack.
“Troye’s performance in ‘Boy Erased,’ along with ‘Revelation,’ the original song he wrote for one of the pivotal scenes in the film, showcases his commitment to Lgbtq activism in both music and film,” said Shirley Halperin, Variety’s executive music editor.
Through its Turn Up the Love campaign in partnership with the Trevor Project and the Loveloud foundation,...
Sivan is being recognized for his work in “Boy Erased,” the story of the gay son of a small-town Baptist preacher who escapes from the horrible reality of conversion therapy. As well as playing the part of Gary in the film, Sivan co-wrote and performed original song “Revelation” for the soundtrack.
“Troye’s performance in ‘Boy Erased,’ along with ‘Revelation,’ the original song he wrote for one of the pivotal scenes in the film, showcases his commitment to Lgbtq activism in both music and film,” said Shirley Halperin, Variety’s executive music editor.
Through its Turn Up the Love campaign in partnership with the Trevor Project and the Loveloud foundation,...
- 1/2/2019
- by Margeaux Sippell
- Variety Film + TV
Annie Lennox has been added to Variety’s inaugural Music for Screens Summit and will take part in a keynote conversation with composer Scott Salinas. The event will be held at Neuehouse in Hollywood, Calif. on Oct. 30
Lennox, who rose to fame during the 1980s as singer and co-songwriter of Eurythmics, has released six studio albums and won three Grammys. Her latest album, “Nostalgia,” was released in 2014.
Other new additions to the event include a keynote conversation with the team behind Netflix’s “Westside,” and speakers include executive producer Kevin Bartel and executive music producer James Diener from the upcoming reality music series. Shirley Halperin, Variety’s executive editor of music will moderate.
Also, Tom Holkenborg a.k.a. Junkie Xl (“Alita: Battle Angel”) has joined the Composer Roundtable presented by Ascap. Variety contributor Jon Burlingame will moderate the conversation about how best to craft music for film and TV in the digital age.
Lennox, who rose to fame during the 1980s as singer and co-songwriter of Eurythmics, has released six studio albums and won three Grammys. Her latest album, “Nostalgia,” was released in 2014.
Other new additions to the event include a keynote conversation with the team behind Netflix’s “Westside,” and speakers include executive producer Kevin Bartel and executive music producer James Diener from the upcoming reality music series. Shirley Halperin, Variety’s executive editor of music will moderate.
Also, Tom Holkenborg a.k.a. Junkie Xl (“Alita: Battle Angel”) has joined the Composer Roundtable presented by Ascap. Variety contributor Jon Burlingame will moderate the conversation about how best to craft music for film and TV in the digital age.
- 10/18/2018
- by Rachel Yang
- Variety Film + TV
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross will keynote Variety’s inaugural Music for Screens Summit, held at Neuehouse in Hollywood on Oct. 30.
The day-long event, with ambient music exclusively provided by iHeartMedia, will focus on the latest trends in composing for film and television, music supervision, commercial synchs in the digital age, legacy act management, soundtracks’ enduring popularity, and more.
Interviewed by Kcrw’s Elvis Mitchell, Reznor and Ross will discuss their work together as composers, producers and songwriters. The two collaborated on the score for David Fincher’s “The Social Network,” and have since worked on composing for such projects as “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,” “Gone Girl,” and “Patriot’s Day.” The duo entered the documentary realm in 2016, working alongside Gustavo Santaolalla and Mogwai on the score for the environmental advocacy film “Before the Flood” and collaborating with acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick on 2017’s “The Vietnam War.
The day-long event, with ambient music exclusively provided by iHeartMedia, will focus on the latest trends in composing for film and television, music supervision, commercial synchs in the digital age, legacy act management, soundtracks’ enduring popularity, and more.
Interviewed by Kcrw’s Elvis Mitchell, Reznor and Ross will discuss their work together as composers, producers and songwriters. The two collaborated on the score for David Fincher’s “The Social Network,” and have since worked on composing for such projects as “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,” “Gone Girl,” and “Patriot’s Day.” The duo entered the documentary realm in 2016, working alongside Gustavo Santaolalla and Mogwai on the score for the environmental advocacy film “Before the Flood” and collaborating with acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick on 2017’s “The Vietnam War.
- 9/25/2018
- by Rachel Yang
- Variety Film + TV
Scooter Braun confirmed today that, as noted by Variety last week, he and Kanye West are working together again and he is helping the artist with the rollout of the five albums he’s in the middle of releasing. The pair had announced in April that Braun was no longer in a management relationship with the artist.
“We’re still working together,” Braun said in a Q&A with Variety executive music editor Shirley Halperin at the Midem conference Thursday. He acknowledged differences of opinion, and noted that “Even though he tweeted ‘I can’t have a manager, I don’t have a manager, I can’t be managed’, two hours later he tweeted ‘Scooter Braun is a genius!’ He wanted me to work [just] for him and that didn’t work for me,” but confirmed that the two never stopped talking and are again working closely together — they were often...
“We’re still working together,” Braun said in a Q&A with Variety executive music editor Shirley Halperin at the Midem conference Thursday. He acknowledged differences of opinion, and noted that “Even though he tweeted ‘I can’t have a manager, I don’t have a manager, I can’t be managed’, two hours later he tweeted ‘Scooter Braun is a genius!’ He wanted me to work [just] for him and that didn’t work for me,” but confirmed that the two never stopped talking and are again working closely together — they were often...
- 6/7/2018
- by Jem Aswad
- Variety Film + TV
While legal marijuana dispensaries all over Los Angeles and California get ready to mark their first-ever Green Friday in the post-“adult use” era with tomorrow’s 4/20 celebration, the medical uses of cannabis tend to get overshadowed in all the hoopla.
Last night (April 18) at the London Hotel in West Hollywood, the Brookings Institution, a Washington, DC non-profit dedicated to “conducting in-depth research that leads to new ideas for problems facing society,” co-hosted with Variety a screening of its documentary, “The Life She Deserves,” a departure from its usual white-paper approach. The half-hour film highlights Virginia teenager Jennifer Collins and her family’s fight to help overcome a lifelong struggle with an epilepsy disorder which saw her suffering from multiple seizures. The entire film can be viewed here.
The heart-wrenching tale follows Jennifer (pictured at far right), her mother Beth and father Pat, as they sought treatment for their daughter’s condition,...
Last night (April 18) at the London Hotel in West Hollywood, the Brookings Institution, a Washington, DC non-profit dedicated to “conducting in-depth research that leads to new ideas for problems facing society,” co-hosted with Variety a screening of its documentary, “The Life She Deserves,” a departure from its usual white-paper approach. The half-hour film highlights Virginia teenager Jennifer Collins and her family’s fight to help overcome a lifelong struggle with an epilepsy disorder which saw her suffering from multiple seizures. The entire film can be viewed here.
The heart-wrenching tale follows Jennifer (pictured at far right), her mother Beth and father Pat, as they sought treatment for their daughter’s condition,...
- 4/19/2018
- by Roy Trakin
- Variety Film + TV
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross will talk about their work on the score for David Fincher's Gone Girl, Reznor's work with Nine Inch Nails and more as part of the keynote Q&A at the 2014 Billboard/Hollywood Reporter Film & TV Music Conference on Wednesday. Read more Trent Reznor: An Oscar Nom Is Better Than a "Bullshit" Grammy You can watch the livestream here of the chat, moderated by Shirley Halperin, Hollywood Reporter and Billboard music editor, starting at 11:30 a.m. Pt. Reznor and Ross worked together previously on the scores for The Social Network and Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. The music in The Social Network earned Reznor an Academy Award,
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- 11/5/2014
- by Elias Leight, Billboard
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross will deliver the Keynote Q&A at the 2014 Billboard + Hollywood Reporter Film & TV Music Conference, taking place on Nov. 5 and 6 in Los Angeles. The two collaborators will discuss their most recent work on the score for Gone Girl. The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard music editor Shirley Halperin will moderate. Gone Girl is the third partnership between Reznor and Ross and director David Fincher, following Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and The Social Network, for which Reznor and Ross won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. “Each year, we look forward
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- 10/21/2014
- by Phil Gallo, Billboard
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Justin Bieber had some choice words for his critics during his rather candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter's Shirley Halperin.
"I don't give a f**k what they say," the 19-year-old Baby singer said of his haters. "I know who I am and what I'm doing in my life and what I've accomplished and continue to accomplish as a performer, as a writer, as an artist, as a person, as a human being. I'm happy with the man I'm becoming."
Related: Source Reacts Bieber Brothel Reports
As for all the negative press he's been receiving, this year especially, Bieber thinks it's all just because negative stories sell. "Every time some site writes something bad, all my followers go on there, and it brings them more traffic. Now they have all the Beliebers on their site, which gives them money from advertisers. They're just worried about money. They don't care about ruining someone's name."
Related Pics: InstaGrab:...
"I don't give a f**k what they say," the 19-year-old Baby singer said of his haters. "I know who I am and what I'm doing in my life and what I've accomplished and continue to accomplish as a performer, as a writer, as an artist, as a person, as a human being. I'm happy with the man I'm becoming."
Related: Source Reacts Bieber Brothel Reports
As for all the negative press he's been receiving, this year especially, Bieber thinks it's all just because negative stories sell. "Every time some site writes something bad, all my followers go on there, and it brings them more traffic. Now they have all the Beliebers on their site, which gives them money from advertisers. They're just worried about money. They don't care about ruining someone's name."
Related Pics: InstaGrab:...
- 11/20/2013
- Entertainment Tonight
Adam Lambert is looking for a new home. The former "American Idol" singer has revealed that he's exiting RCA Records, which has released his music since his "Idol" stint. The fallout reportedly stems from RCA's request that Lambert record an album made up of 1980s cover songs, an idea which both Lambert and his fans rejected. The singer announced the move in a letter to Hollywood Reporter writer Shirley Halperin, where he stated that "the oft-cited 'creative differences'" were the reason, adding that "my heart is simply not in doing a covers album." Lambert released two albums under the contract, 2009's "For Your Entertainment"...
- 7/13/2013
- by HitFix Staff
- Hitfix
The Hollywood Reporter executive editor, features, Stephen Galloway was named entertainment journalist of the year and THR.com was named best website for a news organization Sunday at the Los Angeles Press Club's 55th Southern California Journalism Awards Gala. THR won 10 awards at the ceremony, which took place at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. Galloway also won in the category of personality profile, magazines, for "The Dichotomy of Denzel." Music editor Shirley Halperin also had scored a nom in the category for "Snoop from Dogg to Lion." Also in the online category, THR, Esq., edited
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- 6/24/2013
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This story comes courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter.
By Shirley Halperin
Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre (ne Andre Young) have joined together to open the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation. The longtime friends, collaborators and business partners -- Iovine is currently chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records; he and rapper-producer Dre also co-founded Beats Electronics -- are putting in $70 Million to create the Academy.
According to a release issued by the University, the aim of the school is to give USC students "a unique undergraduate experience" that will span such fields as marketing, business entrepreneurship, computer science and engineering, audio and visual design and the arts.
Said USC President C. L. Max Nikias in announcing the new program: “The vision and generosity of Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young will profoundly influence the way all of us perceive and experience artistic media.
By Shirley Halperin
Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre (ne Andre Young) have joined together to open the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation. The longtime friends, collaborators and business partners -- Iovine is currently chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records; he and rapper-producer Dre also co-founded Beats Electronics -- are putting in $70 Million to create the Academy.
According to a release issued by the University, the aim of the school is to give USC students "a unique undergraduate experience" that will span such fields as marketing, business entrepreneurship, computer science and engineering, audio and visual design and the arts.
Said USC President C. L. Max Nikias in announcing the new program: “The vision and generosity of Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young will profoundly influence the way all of us perceive and experience artistic media.
- 5/15/2013
- Huffington Post
By Scott Feinberg
The Hollywood Reporter
***
The Hollywood Reporter has released the eighth installment of its weekly web series The Hollywood Reporters. In each episode, THR awards analyst Scott Feinberg, the series’ host, chats with colleagues from THR‘s newsroom about different aspects of the awards race. This week, Feinberg was joined by music editor Shirley Halperin for a discussion about this year’s nominees for the best original song Oscar.
Read the rest of this entry/view video…...
The Hollywood Reporter
***
The Hollywood Reporter has released the eighth installment of its weekly web series The Hollywood Reporters. In each episode, THR awards analyst Scott Feinberg, the series’ host, chats with colleagues from THR‘s newsroom about different aspects of the awards race. This week, Feinberg was joined by music editor Shirley Halperin for a discussion about this year’s nominees for the best original song Oscar.
Read the rest of this entry/view video…...
- 2/15/2013
- by Melissa Buckman
- Scott Feinberg
The Hollywood Reporter has released the eighth installment of its weekly web series The Hollywood Reporters. In each episode, THR awards analyst Scott Feinberg, the series' host, chats with colleagues from THR's newsroom about different aspects of the awards race. This week, Feinberg was joined by music editor Shirley Halperin for a discussion about this year's nominees for the best original song Oscar. Feinberg and Halperin, like virtually everyone else, believe that the clear frontrunner is the title song of Skyfall, performed by the international singing sensation Adele (who composed its music and lyrics with Paul Epworth). In fact, Halperin calls the
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- 2/15/2013
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nine experts entered predictions for the 55th Annual Grammy Awards. -Insertgroups:12- Only two of them predicted all 35 categories with Glenn Gamboa (Newsday) scoring better, with 20 correct (58%). Among his savvy choices, he accurately predicted the Black Keys' sweep of the rock field, as well as Zac Brown Band's upset victory for Best Country Album. Gold Derby's Paul Sheehan was close behind with 19 out of 35 (55%). Related: See how you did predicting Grammys Edna Gundersen (USA Today) correctly predicted 12 out of 24 categories (50%), while Lyndsey Parker (Yahoo! Music) got 10 out of 23 (44%). Two experts entered predictions in 22 races: Shirley Halperin (Hollywood Reporter) batted .500 with 11 correct (50%) and Phil Gallo (Billboard) foresaw five winners (23%). Leah Greenblatt (Entertainment Weekly) nailed eight of her 14 predix (58%) while Chris Willman went five f...
- 2/11/2013
- Gold Derby
Our experts are almost evenly split over who will win the Grammy for Best New Artist. They forecast a close two-way race between indie pop trio Fun. and critically hailed hip-hop artist Frank Ocean. -Addprediction:76:134:Click to predict Best New Artist:addprediction- Five out of nine predict Fun. will win: Glenn Gaboa (Newsday), Edna Gundersen (USA Today), Shirley Halperin (Hollywood Reporter), and Gold Derby's Tom O'Neil and Paul Sheehan. The remaining four are backing Ocean: Phil Gallo (Billboard), Leah Greenblatt (Entertainment Weekly), Lyndsey Parker (Yahoo! Music), and Chris Willman. Related: Will Frank Ocean suffer same Grammy fate as Kanye West? Grammy history may favor Fun. over Ocean. Solo male artists rarely win the category, and though both are tied with six nominations, Fun. is the only artist nominated in all four general field categories (also: Record, Song, and Album of the Year), and those artists usually win the New Artist priz.
- 2/6/2013
- Gold Derby
Only two of this year's Record of the Year Grammy nominees are also in contention for Song of the Year: Fun.'s "We Are Young" and Kelly Clarkson's "Stronger (What Doesnt Kill You)." -Insertgroups:5- Unlike Record of the Year, which is awarded to the artist, producers, engineers, and mixers, the Song of the Year prize is awarded only to the songwriter, and "We Are Young," written by Fun. band members Jack Antonoff, Andrew Dost, and Nate Ruess, along with producer Jeff Bhasker, is tipped to win by seven of our nine experts: Phil Gallo (Billboard), Glenn Gamboa (Newsday), Leah Greenblatt (Entertainment Weekly), Edna Gundersen (USA Today), Shirley Halperin (Hollywood Reporter), Lyndsey Parker (Yahoo! Music), and Gold Derby's Paul Sheehan. "We Are Young" is also the frontrunner to win Record of the Year. Related: Who could pull off upsets at the Grammys? Our remaining two experts, Chris Willman and.
- 2/5/2013
- Gold Derby
In an unusual year for the Record of the Year Grammy, only two of the six nominees match the Song of the Year lineup, which often goes hand-in-hand: "We Are Young" by Fun. and Janelle Monae and "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" by Kelly Clarkson. It's Fun. that gets the most support from our experts, with six out of nine predicting them to win for their breakthrough pop anthem: Phil Gallo (Billboard), Glenn Gamboa (Newsday), Leah Greenblatt (Entertainment Weekly), Lyndsey Parker (Yahoo! Music), and Gold Derby's Tom O'Neil and Paul Sheehan. Our remaining three experts are not picking Clarkson, however, but Gotye and Kimbra for "Somebody That I Used to Know." The ubiquitous hit was not nominated for Song of the Year, but that's because it wasn't submitted for consideration in the category. Edna Gundersen (USA Today), Shirley Halperin (Hollywood Reporter), and Chris Willman are betting on it to prevail i.
- 2/5/2013
- Gold Derby
Mumford and Sons are tied with multiple artists for the most nominations (six) at this year's Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year rivals the Black Keys, Frank Ocean, and Fun.. However, the British folk quartet is our experts' pick to win for their sophomore album, "Babel." Seven out of nine experts are forecasting a win for "Babel": Leah Greenblatt (Entertainment Weekly), Edna Gundersen (USA Today), Shirley Halperin (Hollywood Reporter), Lyndsey Parker (Yahoo! Music), Chris Willman, and Gold Derby's Tom O'Neil and Paul Sheehan. Two experts disagree, both picking the Black Keys' critically acclaimed hit "El Camino": Phil Gallo (Billboard) and Glenn Gamboa (Newsday). -Addprediction:76:347:Click to predict Album of the Year:addprediction- None of them are picking Frank Ocean's "Channel Orange," Fun's "Some Nights," or Jack White's "Blunderbuss." All are first-...
- 2/4/2013
- Gold Derby
This story first appeared in the Dec. 14 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Who’s in charge? Read here to find out. Once again, THR's annual list ranks the town’s top females, from execs to a new TV ‘It’ girl, in order of empire, influence and intimidating intelligence. Edited by Stacey Wilson. Written by Tim Appelo, Marc Bernardin, Alex Ben Block, Kevin Cassidy, Tina Daunt, Eriq Gardner, Lesley Goldberg, Shirley Halperin, Marisa Guthrie, Andy Lewis, Pamela McClintock, Daniel Miller, Michael O’Connell, Lacey Rose, Tatiana Siegel, Georg Szalai and Stacey Wilson. Selection Criteria: For THR's annual Power 100 issue, editors based
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- 11/30/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Judd Apatow Cast Graham Parker in 'This is 40' After Reading a 'Funny Blog' Entry by the '70s Rocker
Comedy writer/director/producer Judd Apatow had good reason to appear at the Oct. 25 Billboard/Hollywood Reporter Film & TV Music Conference on a panel hosted by The Hollywood Reporter’s music editor Shirley Halperin. A huge music fan, Apatow powers his movies and shows with canny music cues, including his latest, This Is 40, starring Paul Rudd as a guy running a struggling independent music label. Rock legend Graham Parker costars as a Rudd client, along with his real-life band the Rumour, winners of the 1979 Village Voice critics’ poll, now reunited (really) after 30 years. For Apatow, music is a family
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- 10/26/2012
- by Tim Appelo, David Kronke, Billboard
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Hollywood Reporter editor-at-large Kim Masters was named print journalist of the year and senior film editor Alex Ben Block was honored as entertainment journalist of the year on Sunday at the Los Angeles Press Club's 54th Southern California Journalism Awards Gala. They were just two of several THR writers and editors honored at the ceremony, which took place at the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. Chief film critic Todd McCarthy took home the criticism award, and music editor Shirley Halperin won for best personality profile for her cover story on Trent Reznor. Masters also took home a
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- 6/25/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Madonna’s “Mdna” tour opened last night at Tel Aviv’s Ramat Gan stadium and from all reports, the two-hour performance was quite the extravaganza. She also used the setting to deliver a call for peace, telling the audience mid-set: “I chose to start my world tour in Israel for a very specific and important reason. As you know, the Middle East and all the conflicts that occur here and that have been occurring for thousands of years…They have to stop…You can’t be a fan of mine and not want peace in the world, Ok?” The Hollywood Reporter’s Shirley Halperin called the concert...
- 6/1/2012
- Hitfix
Season 10's Haley Reinhart stopped by The Hollywood Reporter's cover lounge on Friday, joining music editor Shirley Halperin for the latest Idol Hangover interview. And to quote Randy Jackson -- THR had a hot one! Noting the "steamy" vibe of Reinhart's forthcoming debut album Listen Up! (due out May 22), and especially opening track "Oh My," the talk was all about feeling sexy and bringing that essence to her record, which is stellar. Video: 'American Idol': Jennifer Lopez Wishes She Could Mentor More Also on tap for this week's discussion: Haley's thoughts on why Elise Testone was eliminated,
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- 4/28/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Although American Idol favorite Casey Abrams grew up in Idyllwild, Calif. within an hour's drive of the site of this weekend's Coachella music festival, it was all about doing some coa-chill-ing on Friday, as the season 10 alum joined music editor Shirley Halperin for a special 4/20 episode of Idol Hangover. Video: 'Idol Hangover': Season 10's James Durbin On Bringing the Heavy, Rebellion to 'American Idol' On tap for this week's session: analysis of Colton Dixon's surprise elimination, the premiere of a YouTube video Casey has yet to publish, info about his new album, hopefully coming our way this summer, and
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- 4/21/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
'She seems to lose confidence by the week,' said 'Idol' blogger Mj Santilli about Hollie Cavanagh.
By Gil Kaufman
DeAndre Brackensick and judges Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez on "American Idol" on Thursday
Photo: Fox
In years past, booted contestants offered bland platitudes about the helpful judges and their "amazing journey" on "American Idol" and how they've grown and learned so much from the show.
But this season the gloves appear to have come off, with some singers flat out accusing Randy, Steven and Jennifer of messing with their heads by offering head-spinning advice that sends them sprinting in one direction one week only to turn around and jet the other way the next.
"They are hurting the contestants with confusing advice," said Mj Santilli, founder of the popular "Idol' blog MJsbigblog. "What makes it worse are the 'battles' between the panel and mentor Jimmy Iovine.
By Gil Kaufman
DeAndre Brackensick and judges Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez on "American Idol" on Thursday
Photo: Fox
In years past, booted contestants offered bland platitudes about the helpful judges and their "amazing journey" on "American Idol" and how they've grown and learned so much from the show.
But this season the gloves appear to have come off, with some singers flat out accusing Randy, Steven and Jennifer of messing with their heads by offering head-spinning advice that sends them sprinting in one direction one week only to turn around and jet the other way the next.
"They are hurting the contestants with confusing advice," said Mj Santilli, founder of the popular "Idol' blog MJsbigblog. "What makes it worse are the 'battles' between the panel and mentor Jimmy Iovine.
- 4/6/2012
- MTV Music News
This week guests on THR's Idol Hangover hosted by THR's music editor Shirley Halperin and THR.com editor Joseph Kapsch: Pia Toscano, American Idol Season 10 Finalist Last season's biggest American Idol shocker -- and arguably one of the biggest shockers in the show's history -- was when Season 10 frontrunner Pia Toscano was eliminated. The New York native Idol diva won hearts of viewers and judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler with power ballad renditons of Elton John's "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me," The Pretenders' "I'll Stand By You" and Whitney Houston's "Where Do Broken
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- 3/20/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This week, controversy rocked American Idol with shocking news of the disqualification of Season 11 finalist Jermaine "Gentle Giant" Jones. THR "Idol Hangover" hosts Shirley Halperin and Joseph Kapsch will delve into the turn of events surrounding his dismissal with Friday's guests. Season 9 finalist Katie Stevens brings viewers highlights of her one-on-one backstage interview with elminated contestant, Shannon Magrane. David Hernandez Top 12 finalist of Season 7 will also take a seat on the couch to chat about the new contenders, his latest music and recent gig on the Dancing With the Stars tour. Plus, Richard Rushfield --
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- 3/16/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This week, controversy rocked American Idol with shocking news of the disqualification of Season 11 finalist Jermaine "Gentle Giant" Jones. THR "Idol Hangover" hosts Shirley Halperin and Joseph Kapsch will delve into the turn of events surrounding his dismissal with Friday's guests. Season 9 finalist Katie Stevens, filling in for THR's special "Idol" correspondent Didi Benami this week, will stop in to bring viewers highlights of her one-on-one backstage interview with Thursday night's elminated contestant. David Hernandez Top 12 finalist of Season 7 will also take a seat on "Idol Hangover's" cozy couch to chat about the new
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- 3/16/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This week, American Idol Season 10 finalist Stefano Langone takes a seat on the "Idol Hangover" couch to talk about his upcoming projects, what he's been up to since last season and his thoughts on Season 11's new crop of contenders. Idol viewers most fondly recall Stefano for his memorable covers of Ne-Yo, Boyz II Men, Bruno Mars and Stevie Wonder. As THR reported in January, Langone was signed to a recording contract at Hollywood Records, label home to Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Miley Cyrus and other Disney stars from past and present. "Idol Hangover's" intrepid hosts Shirley Halperin
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- 3/9/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Hollywood Reporter will premiere THR.com's first talk show "Idol Hangover" on Friday, March 2 live from Hollywood. The series, hosted by THR music editor Shirley Halperin and THR.com editor Joseph Kapsch, will feature commentary and analysis of the week's performances and elimination during lively discussions with a rotating roster of past seasons' finalists, show insiders and top "American Idol" media personalities from around the country. THR has also tapped Season 9 finalist Didi Benami as special "Idol" correspondent for the season. Didi's red carpet and backstage interviews with the show's judges and Top 13 contenders will also
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- 3/2/2012
- by THR staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Shorter audition episodes and less judge talk are among suggestions.
By Gil Kaufman
"American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest and judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson
Photo: Tony Duran/ Fox
It's hard to know what needs fixing on a show that has held the #1 spot in the ratings for seven consecutive seasons. But every year around this time, Monday morning quarterbacks line up to suggest ways for "American Idol" to get its groove back.
Yes, "Idol" is starting to look gray around the temples in comparison to hipper, flashier competitors such as "X Factor" and "The Voice." But maybe that's the way producers want it, and unlike last season — when they dropped the age cutoff to 15, added new judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez, took the top 60 to Las Vegas and returned the "wild card" round — there has been no hint yet that big changes are slated for season...
By Gil Kaufman
"American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest and judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson
Photo: Tony Duran/ Fox
It's hard to know what needs fixing on a show that has held the #1 spot in the ratings for seven consecutive seasons. But every year around this time, Monday morning quarterbacks line up to suggest ways for "American Idol" to get its groove back.
Yes, "Idol" is starting to look gray around the temples in comparison to hipper, flashier competitors such as "X Factor" and "The Voice." But maybe that's the way producers want it, and unlike last season — when they dropped the age cutoff to 15, added new judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez, took the top 60 to Las Vegas and returned the "wild card" round — there has been no hint yet that big changes are slated for season...
- 1/18/2012
- MTV Music News
The Hollywood Reporter kicks off the first edition of its new web series 'THR Cover Lounge Chats' with a lively discussion of Fox's X Factor. THR.com editor Joseph Kapsch, THR music editor Shirley Halperin and THR.com writer/reporter Jethro Nededog talk "Who will win? Who should win?" on Thursday's finale. Plus, a candid discussion on what went wrong with the first season of Cowell's talent competition and how to fix it.
- 12/22/2011
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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