Monday, April 30, 2012

Photos | 2012 Grammy Awards Pre-Parties

2012 Grammy Awards Pre-Parties

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Gina Carano Recalls The 'Bumps And Bruises' Of 'Haywire'

When MMA fighter-turned-action star Gina Carano first met with her A-list "Haywire" co-stars ? Michael Fassbender, Channing Tatum, Ewan McGregor and Antonio Banderas ? she did so knowing that at some point in the near future, she'd likely have to beat them up. But according to Carano, that fact never got in the way of [...]

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Ice Cube Reflects On The Power Of Music, 20 Years After L.A. Riots

'I think music always has the power to change, heal, bring understanding and bring people together,' Cube tells MTV News.
By Rob Markman, with reporting by Tamara Palmer


Ice Cube performs in Los Angeles on Saturday
Photo: Kameron Zach/MTV News

On April 29, 1992, Los Angeles erupted after a jury acquitted four LAPD officers accused of beating Rodney King. It was dubbed the L.A. riots, as thousands of people took to the streets in protest. There was looting, arson and widespread violence. The indelible imagery has lived on through archived footage, art and, of course, music.

Albums like Dr. Dre's The Chronic and Ice Cube's The Predator were strongly influenced by the racial tension and social powder-keg conditions that preceded the riots and the aggressions and flared tempers in the aftermath. In many ways, West Coast hip-hop music in the early 1990s helped those outside of L.A. gain perspective on the ongoing power struggle between the black youth and the LAPD officers who police the inner-city neighborhoods.

"People have music in their heart. Music ain't about the charts; it's about how you feel about a certain song," Ice Cube told MTV news on Saturday night after KDAY's annual Krush Groove concert. "I know people who have music, and music changed their life just by hearing a song. It could be an old song, it could be a song that people thought were thrown away and you could hear it and it could inspire you."

Cube dropped The Predator in November 1992, several months after the L.A. riots. On "We Had to Tear This Mother----a Up," Cube expertly painted a lyrical picture of the six-day upheaval. "Not guilty, the filthy devils tried to kill me/ When the news get to the 'hood then n---as will be/ Hotter than cayenne pepper, cuss, bust/ Kickin' up dust is a must," he rapped to open the now-classic track.

The former N.W.A star didn't start there. On "Who Got the Camera?," Cube directly addressed the Rodney King beating, which was famously videotaped. In the song's lyrics, Cube tells a story about being pulled over and assaulted by police. "Started they investigation/ No driver's license, no registration/ When I stepped out the car they slammed me/ Goddamn, y'all, who got the camera," he rapped.

For those who didn't witness the L.A. riots first-hand, Cube's music helped illustrate some of the issues and frustrations that led to the chaos. Cube believes music is a tool that can bring about change, just as it was 20 years ago when he dropped The Predator. "I think music always has the power to change, heal, bring understanding and bring people together," he said.

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Photos | 2011 Billboard Music Awards

2011 Billboard Music Awards

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Justin Bieber, Ke$ha, Lea Michele Up For PETA Awards

Peta2 is bestowing awards including Most Animal-Friendly Pop/Hip-Hop Artist to celebs for their support of animal rights.
By Jocelyn Vena

<P>PETA's youth division, peta2, is giving props to celebs like <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/bieber_justin/artist.jhtml">Justin Bieber</a>, <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/kesha_/artist.jhtml">Ke$ha</a> and "Glee" star Lea Michele at this year's <a href="http://features.peta2.com/libby-awards-2011/?utm_campaign=1211%20Libbys%20Nominees%20Press%20Pitches&utm_source=peta2%20Pitch&utm_medium=Media#PeopleAndMusic" target="_blank">Libby Awards</a> for their efforts in support of animal rights. </P><P> </P><P>The Biebs, who appeared in a <a href="/news/articles/1656302/justin-bieber-peta-ad.jhtml">campaign</a> for the organization at the top of the year using Bieber-fied catch-phrases like "My world includes passion for animals, yours should too" and "Animals can make u smile. Adopt from your local shelter," is taking on fellow animal-loving pop star Ke$ha and rappers k-os and Waka Flocka Flame in the Most Animal-Friendly Pop/Hip-Hop Artist category. Ke$ha appeared in an ad campaigning against the slaughter of Canadian seals. </P><P> </P><P>Michele, who speaks out against the mistreatment of carriage horses in New York City, faces off against "Jackass" star Steve-O, Cobra Starship's leading man and peta2's Sexiest Vegetarian Gabe Saporta, and "Victorious" star Daniella Monet in the Top Animal-Friendly Celebrity category. </P><P> </P><P>The Ready Set, Tokio Hotel, Hellogoodbye and the Swellers are all up for Most Animal-Friendly Band. Ke$ha and Tokio are also up for Best peta2 ad along with Social Distortion frontman Mike Ness and Yelle. </P><P> </P><P>The Libby (as in "Liberation") Awards will be decided on January 17 by fan votes as well as peta2. Voting ends December 23. </P><P> </P><P>"Our nominees have all worked hard to shine their spotlights on a variety of important animal issues," peta2 Division Manager Marta Holmberg said about the nominees, which honors animal-friendly people and products. "As our accomplished stars demonstrate, compassion isn't just a virtue &#8212; it's also a road to success."</p>

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Photos | 2012 Grammy Awards Pre-Parties

2012 Grammy Awards Pre-Parties

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Photos | Lovebirds: Britney Spears And Jason Trawick

Lovebirds: Britney Spears And Jason Trawick

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Photos | Justin Bieber Takes Over New York City

Justin Bieber Takes Over New York City

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Jim Jones Prepares To F.E.A.S.T. With New Mixtape

Mixtape Daily previews Jones' new tape, which drops Tuesday.
By Rob Markman, with reporting by Michael Primo


Jim Jones
Photo: MTV News

The O.D.: A Mixtape Daily Exclusive
Jim Jones has quite the street catalog. From his 2002 mixtape Ryder Muzik to his original M.O.B. tape with ByrdGang in 2006 and The Ghost of Rich Porter in 2010, Jim has no shortage of quality underground material.

On Tuesday, Capo plans to follow tradition when he drops F.E.A.S.T.

"I've been working on the mixtape called the F.E.A.S.T.; it's called 'Family Eatin' and Stay True,' " Jones told Mixtape Daily. "We've got a dope group of individuals. Some you've seen before, some new faces."

Jones isn't stopping with music. For F.E.A.S.T., he plans to drop a number of cinematic music videos. "I picked, like, eight songs, and I've strung 'em along like movies," he said. "Something good for people to look at. I haven't seen something like that in a minute. I think it'll be very interesting."

Check back with Mixtape Daily on Tuesday to see more on Jim Jones' F.E.A.S.T., and check out the tape's track list below!

1. "F.E.A.S.T Prelude"
2. "No Way" (featuring Trav)
3. "Paper Chase" (featuring Trav)
4. "Comin From" (featuring T.W.O and Sen City)
5. "Get Mine" (featuring Sen City)
6. "True Religion" (featuring Ryder and Hynief)
7. "60 Rackz" (featuring T.W.O)
8. "Show Off" (featuring Trav)
9. "Don Juan" (featuring Mel Matrix)
10. "Don't Judge Me" (featuring Future)
11. "Top of the Year" (featuring Sen City, Mel Matrix, T.W.O, Lady H, Trav, Shoota, Chris Luck and Pure)
12. "Suicide" (featuring Ryder, T.W.O and Sen City)
13. "Forgive" (featuring T.W.O)
14. "Youu" (featuring Sen City)
15. "AirOnes" (featuring Ryder)
16. "Sleep When You're Dead" (featuring Trav, Mel Matrix and Shoota)
17. "Vamp Life"

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

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What's Your Number? Premiere!

The What's Your Number? premiere is tonight in Los Angeles! I have my dress and I'm super excited!

I'm gong to be tweeting live from the red carpet at 6:30 PM PST for US Weekly magazine, so make sure to follow them and me on Twitter:

@usweekly

@karynbosnak

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VIDEO: Jason Segel: Dating a Fellow Actor "Does Help"

 

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Beyoncé - Run The World (Girls)

Run The World (Girls)

  • Artist: Beyoncé
  • Label: Columbia
  • Director: Francis Lawrence

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Sunday, April 29, 2012

Katie Holmes Reportedly Pregnant

Katie Holmes is reportedly pregnant again! The actress has faced these rumors before though so there is no telling for sure until a few months from now. Whenever a celebrity gains a pound, hides their belly in a mysterious way (as Katie does in the photo above), or sneezes wrong the press assumes they are knocked up. The cover of Star magazine is once again announcing that Katie is pregnant with child number two and of course, Tom is thrilled. Her reps are denying that the actress is indeed knocked up and judging from recent pictures, it doesn?t look like it to me. However sources insist, ?She?s struggling to contain the news. She can?t wait to be a mom again, and the sooner she can tell the world about it, the happier she?ll be.? Six-year-old Suri Cruise was overheard asking her mom, 33, during a New York City visit to Newsies on Broadway, ?if her baby sister was in Katie?s tummy!? ?Katie laughed and whispered something in Suri?s ear,? the source says. Do you think Katie told her to keep it a secret? Well, that perhaps makes it a bit more convincing, but I won’t believe it until I see [...]

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Do Foo Fighters Know Robert Pattinson From Robert Plant?

During band's rehearsal break for Sunday's Movie Awards, we put Foos to the test.
By Ryan J. Downey, with reporting by Jim Cantiello

<P><b>UNIVERSAL CITY, California</b> &#8212; Hard rock, heavy metal, hardcore and punk have long gone hand-in-hand with evil wizards, magic, vampires and werewolves. And with a collective sub-cultural pedigree that includes stints in the Germs, No Use for a Name, Sunny Day Real Estate, Scream and some band called Nirvana, you'd think the <a href="/music/artist/foo_fighters/artist.jhtml">Foo Fighters</a> &#8212; set to perform at Sunday's <a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/movieawards/2011/">Movie Awards</a> &#8212; would know their "Potter" from their Zeppelin. Certainly they can recognize a "wand" reference and pinpoint its origin? </P><P> </P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="The Foo Fighters Take The Movie Awards Quiz" id="vid:660301.id:1664959" width="240" height="211"></div><p> </P><P> </P><P>Right? Before we put MTV News' magically crafted trivia to the band, it seemed safe to assume the Foos would accurately distinguish between the words of Harry Potter, a "Twilight" character and Led Zeppelin. But was their underground nerd cred blown to shreds? Read on &#8212; and click the video! &#8212; to see how the Foo Fighters fared when we caught up with them on the Universal Studios lot, shortly after they finished rehearsing their <a href="/news/articles/1664297/foo-fighters-mtv-movie-awards.jhtml">Movie Awards performance</a>. </P><P> </P><P>Our own Jim Cantiello played dungeon master as Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Taylor Hawkins, Chris Shiflett and Pat Smear were given a series of semi-famous lines and asked whether they originated with "Harry Potter," the "Twilight Saga" or the lyrics of hard-rock pioneers Led Zeppelin. </P><P> </P><P>Here's a sampling of a few of those one-liners: </P><P> </P><P><b>&#187;</b> "The elder wand, the most powerful wand ever made." </P><P> </P><P><b>&#187;</b> "Why don't you let me be yours ever truly? Can I make your garden grow?" </P><P> </P><P><b>&#187;</b> "You're lying, Dolores! You mustn't tell lies!" </P><P> </P><P>Can you guess whether the lines above came from the "Potter" flicks, "Twilight" or Robert Plant? </P><P> </P><P>Watch as the Foos try their best to do exactly that. Then tune in to the MTV Movie Awards on Sunday to catch the Foo Fighters rock the stage with their new single, "Walk." </P><P> </P><P><b>Will wizards, vampires or dream thieves steal the <a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/movieawards/2011/">2011 MTV Movie Awards</a>? Find out June 5, when the 20th annual show airs live at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Tune in at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT that night for the "America's Best Dance Crew" finale and Movie Awards pre-show, loaded with live action from the red carpet, exclusive movie clips and a special edition of <a href="http://www.mtv.com/shows/after_hours_josh_horowitz/series.jhtml">"After Hours."</a></b></p>

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A-Rod: Cameron Diaz Is One of the Greatest People Ever

Talk about a nice guy! Alex Rodriguez and Cameron Diaz always kept their relationship hush-hush during their time together, but now that they've split the Yankees star is ready to open up about his ex (at least a little bit). And he has nothing but sweet things to say about his former leading lady.

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What My Mom Taught Me: Celebrities Dish!

To gear up for Mother's Day, iVillage asked celebs (Kate Hudson! Jennifer Garner!) what they've picked up from their moms

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Ben Flajnik and Courtney Robertson: 'Pure' Sin City Lovers

Spotted out spending the weekend together in Sin City, Ben Flajnik and Courtney Robertson were seen starting off their Saturday (April 28) festivities getting up close and personal poolside at Wet Republic Ultra Pool at MGM Grand.

The pair looked happy together as they both flashed smiles for awaiting photographers. The 28 year-old model was bikini-clad in a red and white striped ensemble that left little to the imagination, while the former bachelor sported multi-color stripe swim trunks, a baseball cap and sunglasses.

After spending their day basking in the sun, the pair followed their night up with a PDA-filled evening at PURE Nightclub at Caesars Palace. Before heading off, Flajnik took to his Twitter page, writing, "Courtney and I are headed to #Vegas! Come party with us @PureLasVegas Saturday, April 28!"

Before making their way into the famous nightclub the reality TV duo stopped to pose on the red carpet. Robertson donned a gorgeous white and black sequin mini dress with strappy black heels while Ben opted for dark jeans, black boots and a suit vest with a button up under shirt.

While inside, the happy couple were spotted kissing, dancing the night away and sipping on some of their favorite drinks.

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The Wanted Out To Prove Boy Bands 'Make Good Music'

'If you like us despite it or because of it, then we're happy,' Jay McGuiness tells MTV News of boy-band label.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Sway Calloway


The Wanted
Photo: MTV News

It's not always easy being in a boy band. There are a lot of preconceptions for the five guys who choose to sing catchy pop tunes and dance in formation for a living.

Given that boy bands have come in and out of fashion once every decade for the last few years, it should come as no surprise that we are knee-deep in a brand-new boy-band bonanza. This one is being led by this generation's 'NSYNC and Backstreet Boys: One Direction and the Wanted.

When MTV News sat down with the Wanted to premiere their "Chasing the Sun" video, they chatted a bit about being labeled a "boy band."

"Eventually, we were, like, over it," Jay McGuiness explained. "If you like us despite it or because of it, then we're happy."

Well, something is working for the guys. Their lead U.S. single, "Glad You Came," has topped the charts, and they are once again getting people dancing with "Chasing the Sun," from their just-released debut U.S. EP. It's a good time to be in a boy band, thanks to all the love out there for them. And it's an even better time to be in the Wanted.

It seems that their success might have a lot to do with the way they've approached their boy-band career thus far. "We went out there and we're like, 'You know what? I think we can change people's perspectives of the '90s boy bands,' " Tom Parker explained. "And that was our aim: just to make good music."

Voting in round two of MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands runs until noon ET on Monday, April 30. Winners are determined by fan votes, so if your favorite band made the cut, make sure you keep voting. Tune in to AMTV and MTV Hits for their boy-band video takeovers each day and make sure to spread the word on Twitter using the hashtag #BBB and like us on Facebook for updates!


Vote for your favorite band, discuss and share on Facebook and Twitter in the MTV Battle of the Boy Bands interactive bracket!

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Los Angeles

I'm here! I'm here! And I saw my first gang-banger get arrested yesterday so I feel like a total Angeleno.

I'm getting ready to go to the gym (again, like a total Angeleno!) so I will update later about my run-ins with Alexander Skarsgard, Pauly Shore, and Jeremy or Jason London (I'm not sure which one it was and seeing if I could force him to do drugs to find out seemed unfair. Besides, as it turned out, he was telling the truth?)

Anyhoo, I've got a lot to tell you about gardening! (Did you know if you get dirt wet it turns into mud? Yuck.)

And bumpers! (They don't bump off anything... they go, "Scraaaaaaaatch!")

And there's probably more but, again, I have to go because I have to get to the gym!

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Waka Flocka Ready To 'Smash' Drake's Club Paradise Tour

'Why not put us all together? I salute him for that,' Flocka tells MTV News of Drizzy tapping new all-stars like French Montana and 2 Chainz.
By Rob Markman, with reporting by Michael Primo


Waka Flocka Flame
Photo: MTV News

Waka Flocka Flame is ready to hit the club.

On May 7, Waka, J. Cole, Meek Mill, 2 Chainz and French Montana will hit the road with Drake on the next leg of the Toronto rapper's ever-evolving Club Paradise tour.

"You know, the kings of the club gotta go to the club," Flocka told MTV News earlier this week at a Brooklyn, New York photo shoot. "They told me Club Paradise is the most popping-est club in the United States right now."

The 27-city run will kick off in Concord, California, and move through amphitheaters in Las Vegas, Houston, Chicago and New York.

"I want to go out on tour with the most exciting artists right now, and I want to make sure that I have songs with all of them," Drizzy said during a conference call for the press on Tuesday. "If we start getting into it and we start really vibing, maybe the last few nights, it's a collaboration show; maybe we do all of our songs onstage together."

Right now, there are few rap artists more exciting than the energetic Waka Flocka, whose latest single, "Round of Applause," has become a strip-club staple. "He's like, 'We the new era, we the new faces of rap, we the new generation,' " the Atlanta riot-starter said of a conversation he and Drake had. "So why not put us all together? I salute him for that. You know I'm about to smash that."

Though he's the headliner, Drake doesn't look at his tourmates as opening acts. Instead, he'll treat Club Paradise as if it were an all-star music experience similar to the popular Coachella or Bamboozle festivals.

"On this tour, I encourage people to get there early, because it's more [of] a festival vibe, if anything," he said. "It's one of those days that's it's going to start during the sunlight and the sun's going to drop, it's outdoors, it's summertime ... I want people to make it a day."

Aside from Drake, who are you most excited to see on the next leg of the Club Paradise Tour? Tell us in the comments!

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'Django Unchained' First Look: Leonardo DiCaprio Heads South

Quentin Tarantino's Western also stars Christoph Waltz.
By Kevin P. Sullivan


Leonardo DiCaprio in "Django Unchained"
Photo: Columbia Pictures/EW

For years, Quentin Tarantino has toyed with the Western, peppering homages to directors like Sergio Leone into "Kill Bill" and "Inglourious Basterds," but now the director is finally taking on the genre with "Django Unchained," albeit in his own twisted way.

Most of Tarantino's secrets have stayed on the set, but Thursday (April 26) Entertainment Weekly debuted the first official look at just how far west Tarantino is going in "Django Unchained."

What separates the film from your usual Western is that it's actually what Tarantino calls a "southern," taking place primarily in the pre-Civil War South. The first photos show off the unique style of the film and reveal what Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio and Christoph Waltz will look like when "Django Unchained" opens in theaters on December 25.

The photo of Foxx and Waltz could be straight out of a traditional Western. Foxx, as title character Django, carries his saddle over his shoulder and wears a prototypical cowboy hat. His companion, Dr. King Schultz, played by Waltz, is a German dentist-turned-bounty-hunter, and his more sophisticated getup reflects that.

It isn't until we see DiCaprio's evil plantation owner, Calvin Candie, that we find the connection to the Deep South. In the photo, DiCaprio is dressed up like a fine Southern gentleman, but he poses menacingly with a hammer in his hand.

EW spoke with Foxx about working on the sure-to-be controversial film, which addresses slavery like never before.

"There's a beautiful way [Tarantino] found for the characters to talk to each other. It's mind-blowing. You've never heard it this way," Fox told the magazine. "You've seen movies deal with slavery — or Westerns that never dealt with slavery — do it the safe way. This way is like ... wow."

Check out everything we've got on "Django Unchained."

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

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Mariah Carey?s Estranged Prostitute Sister Battling Liver Cancer

Mariah Carey’s Estranged Prostitute Sister Battling Liver Cancer

Mariah Carey’s estranged call girl sister, who is also HIV positive, has been diagnosed with liver cancer. Alison Carey Scott, 50, met with the National [...]

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Photos | Rihanna and Ke$ha Perform At Madison Square Garden

Rihanna and Ke$ha Perform At Madison Square Garden

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NBC Wednesday Night Preview Videos

Happy hump day my friends, I have some fabulous videos from NBC?s brand new Wednesday night that will no doubt help you get through those mid week blahs. I am talking about clips from� Best Friends Forever, Law &� Order: SVU and the hilarious Betty White?s Off Their Rockers. NBC Wednesday night is the place to be and tonight is no exception. If you don?t believe me yet, trust me when I say you will after I show some awesome videos clips from all three new shows. Kicking off the night is Betty White?s Off Their Rockers, which personally makes me laugh so freaking hard and that is why I am glad to have not one but two sneak peeks for you to take a little look at. If you haven?t seen this show then I highly recommend you check it out. Sometimes a guy just needs a little clarification. Who couldn’t use a little entertainment while waiting in line? Next up there is the new comedy Best Friends Forever, which I have to admit I am still on the fence about. The blonde chick really drives me crazy but I like the rest of the cast so I am [...]

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Saturday, April 28, 2012

Beyoncé - Countdown

Countdown

  • Artist: Beyoncé
  • Label: Columbia, Parkwood
  • Director: Beyoncé / Adria Petty

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Caught on Camera! Celeb Twitpics

Khloe Kardashian takes Mason out for dinner! Plus, check out more stars' cute, candid and crazy Twitter photos

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Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon Renew Their Vows! XX

AHHH!!! So freaking cute!!!!
Nick Cannon has endured a helluva year, so we're SUPER happy he got to marry his boo all over again!
We know how much he LOVES her!! And it's just so fun to watch too, LOL!!
As we've discussed before, Nick and Mariah Carey renew their vows every anniversary, but this [...]

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Dear Beyonce: Why We Love You Till The End Of Time

Above the Buzz pays homage to Queen B after the singer pens a few heartfelt letters to her own idols.
By Jocelyn Vena

<P>These days, <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/knowles_beyonce/artist.jhtml">Beyonc&#233;</a> is breaking down her personal "fourth wall," letting fans into her life more and more, after living as a pop-star enigma for more than a decade. </P><P> </P><P>She recently re-launched her website, began tweeting, <a href="/news/articles/1682565/beyonce-tumblr-personal-pics.jhtml">started a personal Tumblr</a> account and even <a href="/news/articles/1683546/beyonce-skypes-remix-contest.jhtml">Skyped with a contest winner</a> this week after her "End of Time" remix competition. </P><P> </P><P>Somewhere in there, Blue Ivy's mama found the time to handwrite letters to several famous people and post them on her site. She <a href="http://www.beyonce.com/news/michelle-obama" target="_blank">shared</a> her warm, fuzzy feelings for some key figures, including First Lady Michelle Obama, the late New York artist <a href="http://www.beyonce.com/news/basquiat" target="_blank">Jean-Michel Basquiat</a> and <a href="http://www.beyonce.com/news/sade" target="_blank">R&B star Sade </a>. In honor of that, I decided to turn this week's <i>Above the Buzz</i> into a letter to Beyonc&#233;, in the key of B, of course. </P><P> </P><P><CENTER><embed src="http://media.mtvnservices.com/mgid:uma:video:mtv.com:724613/cp~name%3Dnews%26id%3D1676907%26vid%3D724613%26uri%3Dmgid%3Auma%3Avideo%3Amtv.com%3A724613" width="430" height="242" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" base="."></embed></CENTER> </P><P> </P><P><i>Dear Beyonc&#233;,<br> </P><P>First off, I just want to say "Hey Girl!" You're truly an inspiration to girls everywhere. You represent ladies in a great way, what with your girl power anthems and messages of female independence. </P><P> </P><P>And it seems these days, in spite of how busy you are, you're focused on <a href="http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/04/19/beyonce-back-to-school-new-york/">heading back to school</a>. Education is a really awesome message to spread to all the young women out there. Stay in school kids, right, B? </P><P> </P><P>Next, I just want to let you know that I am still into <a href="/news/articles/1665479/beyonce-4-leak.jhtml"></i>4.<i></a> It's a pretty great album to just leave on repeat while I'm at work or just living life. I mean, those are some <i>jams</i> on there. And, not to quote you or anything, but you shared with Sade that her music helps you get through times, good and bad &#8212; well, back at you. </P><P> </P><P>Also, you've been rocking some awesome street style recently. Those "cat" flats you donned a few weeks back have me dreaming of kitschy, animal-themed couture every night. I can only imagine the kind of crazy looks you are planning for the string of shows you have lined up <link type="content" id="1681308">next month in Atlantic City. I assume my tickets are in the mail? </P><P> </P><P>Anyway, I don't want to take up too much of your time. I know you're busy being a mom and working on new music and probably prepping for your show and all, but if you and Jay-Z can make the time, I think I can pencil you guys in for dinner or whatever. I'm cool with wherever you guys pick. You know me, pretty easy-going and all. Alright then, talk to you later. </P><P> </P><P>Your girl,<br> </P><P>Jocelyn</i> </P><P> </P><P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/photos/?fid=1617615"><img src="http://www.mtv.com/news/photos/s/spotted/banner/spotted.jpg"></a></p>

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'Django Unchained' First Look: Leonardo DiCaprio Heads South

Quentin Tarantino's Western also stars Christoph Waltz.
By Kevin P. Sullivan


Leonardo DiCaprio in "Django Unchained"
Photo: Columbia Pictures/EW

For years, Quentin Tarantino has toyed with the Western, peppering homages to directors like Sergio Leone into "Kill Bill" and "Inglourious Basterds," but now the director is finally taking on the genre with "Django Unchained," albeit in his own twisted way.

Most of Tarantino's secrets have stayed on the set, but Thursday (April 26) Entertainment Weekly debuted the first official look at just how far west Tarantino is going in "Django Unchained."

What separates the film from your usual Western is that it's actually what Tarantino calls a "southern," taking place primarily in the pre-Civil War South. The first photos show off the unique style of the film and reveal what Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio and Christoph Waltz will look like when "Django Unchained" opens in theaters on December 25.

The photo of Foxx and Waltz could be straight out of a traditional Western. Foxx, as title character Django, carries his saddle over his shoulder and wears a prototypical cowboy hat. His companion, Dr. King Schultz, played by Waltz, is a German dentist-turned-bounty-hunter, and his more sophisticated getup reflects that.

It isn't until we see DiCaprio's evil plantation owner, Calvin Candie, that we find the connection to the Deep South. In the photo, DiCaprio is dressed up like a fine Southern gentleman, but he poses menacingly with a hammer in his hand.

EW spoke with Foxx about working on the sure-to-be controversial film, which addresses slavery like never before.

"There's a beautiful way [Tarantino] found for the characters to talk to each other. It's mind-blowing. You've never heard it this way," Fox told the magazine. "You've seen movies deal with slavery — or Westerns that never dealt with slavery — do it the safe way. This way is like ... wow."

Check out everything we've got on "Django Unchained."

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

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'X Factor' Michael Jackson Night Has Singers On Edge

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<P><i>MTV News' own Jim Cantiello is exclusively covering "The X Factor" rehearsals. Read on for his fly-on-the-wall backstage report!</i> </P><P> </P><P><b>LOS ANGELES</b> &#8212; "The X Factor" top seven are back on the lot after their first (and only) mini-vacation of the season. And as the Thanksgiving tryptophan wears off, the anxiety of another double elimination is setting in. </P><P> </P><P></p><div class="player-placeholder right" title="'X Factor' Star Astro Teases His Michael Jackson Song Night Performance" id="vid:714741" width="240" height="211"></div><p> </P><P> </P><P>Adding to the stress? "The X Factor" is tackling the songs of <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/jackson_michael/artist.jhtml">Michael Jackson</a> on Wednesday night (November 30), on the 29th anniversary of <i>Thriller</i>'s release, no less. </P><P> </P><P>One of the contestants is so stressed over the theme he's emerged as a total perfectionist. During Monday's rehearsals, he had already nixed multiple arrangements the show had provided him. "This is the most unprepared I've felt on a Monday," he said to his mentor as they rushed out of Stage 36. There was a camera crew chasing them to capture the drama &#8212; as well as the ensuing late-night emergency meeting with the vocal coaches &#8212; so don't be surprised if some of this intense footage ends up in your living room. (This afternoon's dress rehearsal went swimmingly, for the record.) </P><P> </P><P>Meanwhile, one contestant had a full-on battle with his/her mentor over a chair. The mentor said, "Sit and sing." The contestant said, "Again?! How about I do something on my feet for Michael Jackson week?" Another mentor came to the defense of the contestant. In the end, the contestant is sitting after all. Don't worry, contestant. The eerie arrangement of an MJ classic is what folks are going to be buzzing about. No one will care if you sit or stand. In the control room, I spied one of the bigwigs utter the word "brilliant!" after the contestant's dress rehearsal. </P><P> </P><P>Another hot topic: wardrobe! When paying homage to one of the biggest music icons ever, it's tempting for the stylists to include clothing nods to Michael's various looks. But several singers are worried they'll look too much like Jackson impersonators, which has caused many a headache in the wardrobe trailer. But stylist June Ambrose is still able to keep things light in the midst of the drama. While waiting around for a contestant's last-minute fitting, she started an impromptu MJ dance party on the lot. Crotch grabs and "woo" included! </P><P> </P><P>Lastly, Paula Abdul's sunny energy has been noticeably absent on the CBS lot now that all her groups have been eliminated. She went from being the most hands-on mentor to an on-set ghost. "The X Factor" family can't wait to welcome her back for her first live show as strictly a judge. What do you think she's been doing with her newfound free time? </P><P> </P><P><b>You can catch Jim on the "X Factor Pepsi Pre-Show," streaming at 7 p.m. ET tonight on <a href="http://www.thexfactorusa.com/" target="_blank">TheXFactorUSA.com</a>!</b></p>

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Usher And Diplo Found 'Chemistry' On 'Climax'

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<P><b>MADISON, Wisconsin</b> &#8212; It was just four years ago that <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/diplo/artist.jhtml">Diplo</a> put his production prowess on full display with M.I.A.'s mega-hit <a href="http://www.mtv.com/videos/mia/195024/paper-planes.jhtml">"Paper Planes."</a> Since then, the DJ/producer has become a go-to producer for major acts like Usher, whose latest single, R&B jam "Climax," features work from the Philadelphia native. </P><P> </P><P>On Tuesday, MTV News hit up the first stop on the campus-themed <a href="http://newsroom.mtv.com/2012/03/28/diplo-chiddy-bang-axe-one-night-only-tour">AXE One Night Only Tour</a> in Wisconsin, and we caught up with the headlining DJ to talk about his upcoming projects. </P><P> </P><P>"We got really luck on that one," he said of the track from Usher's upcoming album. "We just had great chemistry. I was super-nervous working with him the first two days. ... The way we did it, it was just a super-open format. He was down to do whatever we were excited about. </P><P> </P><P>"I love Usher," Diplo gushed. "I'm an Usher fan. I love him for records like 'Confessions Pt. II' and 'Burn,' those are some of the first R&B records from my generation that are still lasting forever. And we did some uptempo stuff too. I don't know what'll make the album, but I think there are definitely three songs that'll make it." </P><P> </P><P>Diplo is currently involved with a number of projects and luckily he was willing to dish. After working last summer with <a href="/news/articles/1670849/no-doubt-album-release.jhtml">No Doubt on their upcoming record</a>, the producer revealed he had good news to share. </P><P> </P><P>"We just finished. I was actually in Jamaica last month and I went in and did some extra stuff on that record," he told us. "I'm super-excited. It's probably going to be a single for their album. They've been [tweeting] about the song, so they're excited about it. I think it's going to be a 'No Doubt featuring Major Lazer' record, because we were producers, and there's another artist on it, too, that we recorded in Jamaica. </P><P> </P><P>"But you'll have to wait," Diplo warned, "I don't know how far off that record is, but every song I've heard is a bona-fide hit. ' </P><P> </P><P>The superstar DJ also recently took to his Facebook page and casually mentioned that he's already started production on 18 tracks for a record with <a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/snoop_dogg/artist.jhtml">Snoop Dogg</a>. </P><P> </P><P>"Snoop Dogg is an icon, man; he's bigger than the music," Diplo said. "What we're doing is a reggae record. It's like Snoop Dogg and Major Lazer together. It's all reggae and he's singing and he's doing a f---ing awesome job and I never knew it, but he had his heart in every song. ... We're going to get back into the production of it next month, and I'm really proud of that record. It's the first record I've ever executive-produced and his crew is amazing. </P><P></p>

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Britney Spears Nears 'X Factor' Deal

Pop star would reportedly bank $15 million to join judges' panel on Simon Cowell's reality competition.
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<P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/spears_britney/artist.jhtml">Britney Spears</a> is closer than ever to <a href="/news/articles/1680782/britney-spears-x-factor-judge-offer.jhtml">joining "The X Factor" team</a>. </P><P> </P><P>News first broke in early March that the pop star was in negotiations to join the judges' panel on Fox's reality singing competition, and just as speculation seemed to be dying down, <a href="http://www.deadline.com/2012/04/britney-spears-nears-deal-for-the-x-factor/" target="_blank">Deadline</a> reports that Spears' team and show producers have reached agreements on several key contract details, including the star's salary. </P><P> </P><P><embed src="http://media.mtvnservices.com/mgid:uma:video:mtv.com:698603/cp~vid%3D698603%26uri%3Dmgid%3Auma%3Avideo%3Amtv.com%3A698603" width="460" height="260" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" base="."></embed> </P><P> </P><P>It was reported that Spears was being offered $10 million for a season of the show, but the latest news is that her offer is actually closer to $15 million, which is $3 million more than Jennifer Lopez earns as a judge on "American Idol." </P><P> </P><P>Several stars &#8212; from Janet Jackson and Mariah Carey to, at one time, the late <a href="/news/articles/1679472/american-idol-voice-x-factor-simon-cowell.jhtml">Whitney Houston</a> &#8212; have reportedly been discussed as possible replacements for <a href="/news/articles/1678191/paula-abdul-exits-x-factor.jhtml">Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul</a>, though no deals have been announced. The buzz surrounding Spears seems to be the most reliable, as sources close to the show report that her fianc&#233; and former agent Jason Trawick is actively negotiating the deal. </P><P> </P><P>Cowell reportedly reached out to Spears personally to gauge her interest in joining the show and has been singing her praises publicly, saying in a March conference call with reporters that he is "fascinated" by Spears and believes work on "The X Factor" will be easy for the hardworking singer. </P><P> </P><P>"This girl has resilience. I would think that if she's managed to sustain a family, a career, which is tough, ["X Factor" would be] a walk in the park," Cowell said. "I would be fascinated to hear what she has to say. She's still hot, she's still having hit records and she's still controversial. There's a reason for that." </P><P> </P><P>A point of conflict has reportedly been Cowell's insistence that Spears sign a two-year contract with the show, while she wants the option of opting out after just one season if she feels the gig is not a good fit. Whether Trawick and Cowell were able to reach an agreement on the issue has not been made public. </P><P> </P><P><a href="http://www.mtv.com/photos/?fid=1617615"><img src="http://www.mtv.com/news/photos/s/spotted/banner/spotted.jpg"></a></p>

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Backstreet Boys, 'NSYNC Out Of Battle Of The Boy Bands

New Kids on the Block, One Direction, the Wanted and more advance to second round — voting is open now!
By Christina Garibaldi


Backstreet Boys at the 1999 VMAs
Photo: Getty Images

It was a highly unpredictable first round of MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands, with perceived favorites Backstreet Boys and 'NSYNC out of the competition.

Irish boy band Westlife ousted BSB, and British group 5ive took out 'NSYNC by an extremely thin margin.

Many other matchups went down to the wire, including New Kids on the Block, who narrowly avoided an upset by Take That. O-Town received a late rally from their fans, giving them the edge over the Jackson 5. New boy bands like One Direction, the Wanted and Big Time Rush will move on to the next round, but, as you can see, it seems as if no one is safe.

So who remains in the competition? Let's take a look at the next round of matchups!

Midwest
Westlife vs. O-Town: Westlife proved to be a real contender in this competition after beating the Backstreet Boys in round one. The group — which is about to kick off a farewell tour in May — seems to have a die-hard fanbase that may prove tough for O-Town to overcome. But don't count them out just yet: They also had a tough first-round matchup in the Jackson 5, and fans may still be hoping for a reunion from these guys, since last year, four of the five original members announced they wanted to get back together.

The Beatles vs. New Kids on the Block: NKOTB barely made it through to the second round and now have to face an even tougher competitor: The Beatles. The New Kids had much of their success in the late'80s and early '90s and have sold 80 million records worldwide. Pretty impressive, but the Beatles are known as the original boy band and are the best-selling band in history. Let's hope NKOTB are "Hangin' Tough."

East
Jonas Brothers vs. Hanson: It's not only a battle of the boy bands; it's a battle of the brothers! Hanson and the Jonas Brothers will face off in a touch matchup in the next round. Both groups, consisting of three brothers, are known for their infectious pop hits and the fact that they all play their own instruments. Hanson received massive success in the mid- to late '90s with single "MMMBop," which hit #1 in 27 countries. After marriages, babies and several albums, the group is very much still together and will be touring this summer. With four LPs in just as many years, the Jonas Brothers have sold 8 million albums worldwide and became a household name after starring in two Disney Channel movies, "Camp Rock" and "Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam." The guys took a break to work on solo projects but have been working on a follow-up to their 2009 album, Lines, Vines and Trying Times.

LFO vs. 5ive: Both of these boy bands barely edged out their competition, which should make for an interesting second-round matchup. 5ive found success overseas with 11 top 10 singles and four top 10 albums in the U.K. before they called it quits in 2001, and LFO became popular in the U.S. during the wave of late-'90s boy bands and had two top 10 hits, including "Summer Girls." This one may go down to the wire again with both groups having very loyal fanbases.

West
The Wanted vs. the Monkees: British boy band, the Wanted have certainly gained momentum here in the States over the past few months. The group released a much-anticipated U.S. EP earlier this week and premiered the "Chasing the Sun" video on "MTV First: The Wanted." They will have to see if this energy can carry them through when they face off against the Monkees. The group enjoyed success in the mid-'60s with their hit television show and songs like "I'm a Believer" and experienced a revival in the mid-'80s with a performance at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards. The band continued to tour off and on until 2011 but lost member Davy Jones earlier this year when he died of a severe heart attack.

Big Time Rush vs. Boyz II Men: Both of these groups easily made it past their first-round competition, but it will most likely be a closer matchup in round two. Big Time Rush may have a younger audience voting for them, since they gained success with their hit Nickelodeon television show. Boyz II Men, on the other hand, have longevity on their side, being that they are the most successful R&B group of all time.

South
One Direction vs. IM5: Even though both of these boy bands are relatively new to the music scene, it seems they already have a lot in common. One Direction were assembled by Simon Cowell on the U.K. version of "The X Factor," and IM5 were recently created by "American Idol" creator Simon Fuller, Perez Hilton and creative director and choreographer Jamie King.

NKOTBSB vs. Mindless Behavior: With the Backstreet Boys out of the competition, BSB fans can still vote for NKOTBSB. The New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys supergroup released a compilation album in 2011 consisting of each of their hit songs and two joint singles including "Don't Turn Out the Lights." The group is overseas on the European leg of their tour. But don't ignore the power behind the fans of Mindless Behavior. The group, which has actually toured with the Backstreet Boys, just released the single "Hello" in March.

Voting in round two of MTV's Battle of the Boy Bands runs until noon ET on Monday, April 30. Winners are determined by fan votes, so if your favorite band made the cut, make sure you keep voting. Tune in to AMTV and MTV Hits for their boy-band video takeovers each day and make sure to spread the word on Twitter using the hashtag #BBB and like us on Facebook for updates!


Vote for your favorite band, discuss and share on Facebook and Twitter in the MTV Battle of the Boy Bands interactive bracket!

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