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Thursday October 29, 2009

What Is It? 'This Is It'

I had the chance to see "This is It" in Los Angeles this week. And I'm still trying to figure out how I feel about it.

It seems like just a little while ago that I was watching news stories of Michael Jackson's passing and watching videos that he'd made long ago. His death had been sudden and shocking, followed by a remembrance process that was celebrative and winsome. But seeing a new film, with new images, about a man who's passed away, is very, very confusing on the emotions.

I can't tell whether this was "Instant Nostalgia" or "Delayed Mourning." "Blessed are those who mourn," says the scripture. It also says, "There's a time to mourn." Watching "This Is It," I found myself trying to get emotionally connected to whether that time had come and gone, or was still with us, or was starting anew.

That said, "This Is It" is a celebration of a man in the prime of his desire, though not of his career--someone committed to repainting himself publically according to his gifts, talents and passions rather than the controversy and confusion that had so marked his more recent decade.

As movie stories go, "This Is It" really doesn't have one. It is documentary-ish, which actually makes it all the more powerful, as the sheer force of Michael Jackson's presence--and our knowledge of his impending death--provides the dramatic tension, the plot, the conflict, the constant knowledge of the fatal flaw and the denouement.

Thursday October 29, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Kanye Faces East: Musicians Who Find God

GetbackKanye West has found God.

Okay, that's not entirely accurate. Kanye West is searching for God. Or some inner peace. News broke last week that the 32-year old VMA stage crasher was heading to India to spend a month in a Hindu ashram. Presumably, West will have a chance to properly grieve the 2007 death of his mother, reflect on his own life, and get his head screwed on straight. I wish him luck. The dude is too talented and big-hearted to fall down a rat hole of narcissism and self-destruction. Kanye West

West is standing at the same crossroads so many other musicians have stood. Artists whose lives of fame and chaos reached a breaking point which could only be repaired by faith in something bigger. Musicians who turn to God or spirituality are a different breed than the scores of award winners who give the obligatory thanks to God after picking up a Grammy.

Musicians who find God often lose Him on the next concert tour. Still, for a few brief moments, the clouds part, the light shines in, and inner peace is restored. Here are some artists who, like Kanye, have searched for meaning beyond fame.

See you when you get back, Kanye. Enjoy the peace and quiet.

[Videos: Check out clips from all of the musicians on Getback.com.]

Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan was born Robert Allen Zimmerman into a Jewish family (he had his bar mitzvah in 1954). Publicly, though, religion and spirituality played virtually no role in Dylan's life until the late '70s when he became a born-again Christian. Dylan took bible study classes, made two Christian albums (1979's "Slow Train Coming" and '80s "Saved"), and began preaching from stage. The conversion was short-lived - at least publicly. Nowadays, Dylan's religious beliefs are as confounding as his lyrical messages. He's been seen at Jewish temples and just released a Christmas record.

Friday October 23, 2009

Funny, The Way It Is That 'GrooGrux' Inspires

As if having one of the more creative titles wasn't enough to fuel a ton of marketing, Dave Matthews and his "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King" tunes have been showing up everywhere around me. And I'm lovin' it.

Dave headlined the "Austin City Limits" Music Festival earlier this month. He and his band were on display for the second time this month on "The Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien." And on my last Delta flight, the whole "GrooGrux" CD was featured.

Sometimes a new CD by an established star is so well-marketed that the actual music and inspiration gets lost. Not so with this CD, as "GrooGrux" is a great ride.

"Why I Am" is a rockin' song in which he honors departed band member LeRoi Moore, the saxophonist and band co-founder who died just over a year ago from injuries sustained in an ATV accident.

"I grew from monkey into man," Matthews sings in tribute, graduating to "I grew drunk on water turned into wine." He then confesses "I was slave and master at the same ...time."

Wednesday October 21, 2009

Categories: Music

The Swell Season's Latest Is Pure 'Joy'

swell-season.jpg

One of my favorite movies of the last few years has to be the indie music/romantic comedy
"Once." One of the best things to come out of the movie is The Swell Season - a.k.a. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, the duo that starred in the movie. While promoting the movie "Once" through a series of concerts, the duo decided to come up with the name The Swell Season and start a recording career. Their follow up to the movie soundtrack, which included their hit song "Falling Slowly," is entitled "Strict Joy." While "Strict Joy" is not available for sale just yet, it is available for streaming in an exclusive feature over at NPR. Reminding me once again why this is the best year for indie music in a long time, "Strict Joy" has fantastic acoustic melodies and mesmerizing vocals and is unabashedly romantic without being sappy or angst-filled.

Wednesday October 21, 2009

Glee's Puck Sings to Honor Jewish Icon

Last week, on "Glee," we learned that Puck - the Mohawked, hot-mom-loving jock who is the father-to-be of Quinn's baby - is Jewish. It happened with a single word/punchline: "Shalom." Puck's Jewish heritage could have receded into the background, but this week, the football star continues to assert/exploit his Jewish identity by singing a musical number that he calls his "personal tribute to a musical Jewish icon."

Knowing only that piece of information, who do you think will it be? Barbra Streisand? Bob Dylan? Matisyahu? Guess who?

If you're not afraid of spoilers, watch the clip. But if you hate spoilers, maybe pass on it until after "Glee" airs tonight at 9pm on FOX: we think you'll agree that there's more going on in the scene than just a musical tribute:

This special sneak preview clip brought to you via the wonder of the internet and the folks at JewishTweets.

Glee

Friday October 16, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Pop Culture

Madonna: Judaism's New Ambassador?

Madonna, is of course, perpetually associated with religious controversy. My particular favorite in her repertoire was her live performance of a woman on the cross from her 2006 Confessions Tour, while she sang "Live to Tell." I even did a...

Monday October 12, 2009

Miley Cyrus Quits Twitter and Urges Others to do Same

"Hannah Montana" star Miley Cyrus' decision to stop Twittering raised such a furor that you would have thought that Walter Cronkite had refused to read the news during the Vietnam War. Ok, so it wasn't quite that serious, but everyone...

Friday September 18, 2009

Categories: Music

David Bazan Finds Faith a 'Curse'

Former Pedro the Lion singer David Bazan has a new album out.

Wednesday September 16, 2009

Jim Carroll: Death of a Catholic Boy

Solitary, spare in his poetry and his person, the writer and musician Jim Carroll, who died last week at age 60, was never easy to take as an artist. His songs were punk rants, his poems drug-scorched versions of Frank...

Wednesday September 16, 2009

One More Eulogy for Mr. Patrick Swayze

By now you've heard that Patrick Swayze has died. He described himself as a spiritual "seeker." And you've probably read or heard or watched quite a bit about his life. Allow me to add these few words, a few which...

Monday September 14, 2009

MTV Video Music Awards: Back in Fighting Form

I bemoaned last year's MTV Video Music Awards as lacking the usual raucousness usually associated with the water cooler-worthy awards show. But last night's VMAs, hosted once again by British comedian Russell Brand, didn't disappoint. Intended to be a fitting...

Tuesday September 8, 2009

Categories: Music, Pop Culture, Trends

No 'Stairway': Heaven's Reign Has Ended

Last year I wrote about the predictability of rock radio's holiday countdowns of the best songs ever, which, seemingly by an Act of Congress, year after year anointed Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" the Greatest Tune Ever Played. This Labor...

Monday August 24, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Music

How Much Do You REALLY Know About Popular Song Lyrics?

Some of the most beloved popular songs of the last 40 years are chock full of spiritual themes. How much do you really know about pop music? Take our quiz!

Tuesday August 18, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Pop Culture

Lady Goes Gaga for Jerusalem: Promised to Tone It Down

Lady Gaga's excited to be in Israel and to visit Jerusalem. So much so that she's promised to "tone it down" for Israeli fans.

Friday August 14, 2009

Rock's Founding Father Les Paul Dies

Where did rock 'n roll come from? Campfire hootinannies down south in the 1940s, sure. From Elvis's hips. From the Beatles' insanely inventive recording sessions. But most of all, it came from a guitar player and electronic tinkerer named Les...

Tuesday August 11, 2009

Miley Cyrus' 'Pole Dancing' at the Teen Choice Awards

Everyone is upset that Miley Cyrus was "pole dancing" at the Teen Choice Awards. But why doesn't anyone care that convicted rapist Mike Tyson was on the show?

Monday August 3, 2009

Categories: Music

Pope Benedict XVI: The Christmas Album

If you can't do, teach. And if you can't sing, make a Christmas album. The latter adage has been proven again by the announcement that Pope Benedict XVI will join Regis Philbin, Colonel Sanders, and The Brady Bunch in releasing...

Thursday July 30, 2009

Derek Webb: 'I Can No Longer Make Apologies' for How Christians Behave

Derek Webb talks to Idol Chatter's Paul O'Donnell about his album "Stockholm Syndrome" and the controversy around his song "What Matters More," a scathing critique of how evangelical Christians approach homosexuality.

Friday July 24, 2009

Dreams of Michael Jackson

By Ariadne Green, dream expert On the afternoon of June 26th, Michael Jackson danced through the gates of heaven. I had a dream announcing his death the night before it happened. I was "dreamwalking" through Neverland mansion taking in the...

Friday July 24, 2009

Quiz: The Pop Gospel According to Michael Jackson

Can't get enough of Michael Jackson now that he's gone? If you liked Beliefnet's recent quiz on Michael Jackson's Spiritual Lyrics, here is another quiz for you to check out: The Pop Gospel According to Michael Jackson by David Buckna....

Wednesday July 22, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Television

Catch Up With Susan Boyle on 'America's Got Talent'

I am no flash in the pan Susan Boyle fan. I have been following her rising star with both interest and anxiety as she has navigated life after being runner-up on "Britain's Got Talent." Overnight singing sensation Boyle was hospitalized...

Tuesday July 21, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Music

What Are Your Favorite Embarrassing Songs?

Over on Steven Waldman's blog he has a great post on his favorite embarrassing songs. He defines such music as "songs I secretly play when I'm alone that I know would mark me as a) unsophisticated b) sappy and c)...

Monday July 20, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Beastie Boy Adam Yauch Diagnosed with Parotid Gland Cancer

Earlier today, Beastie Boy Adam "MCA" Yauch explained-- via YouTube video clip-- that he had been diagnosed with salivary gland cancer and would be canceling several dates in their upcoming tour schedule. While promoting their upcoming album in Europe, Yauch...

Friday July 17, 2009

Categories: Books, Music, Politics, Pop Culture

Bob Dylan: Too Christian for Jimmy Carter?

Jimmy Carter, it seems, believes in the separation between church and rock. The former president, whose 1976 White House campaign saw both performances by the Allman Brothers Band and the introduction of the term "born again" to the Washington media's...

Wednesday July 15, 2009

Hostage to Nobody: Derek Webb's 'Stockholm Syndrome'

A few minutes of footage from the making of Derek Webb's new, stunningly successful album, "Stockholm Syndrome" explains a lot about what Webb, the consciously controversial Christian singer-songwriter, is up to with his latest release. In the docu-video released last...

Tuesday July 14, 2009

How Well Do You Know Michael Jackson's Lyrics?

Although the world still mourns the loss of Michael Jackson, his music will certainly live on. And while so many have enjoyed his songs for years, it's easy to overlook the depth of his lyrics--which often contain positive references to...

Monday July 13, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

LaToya Jackson Cries 'Foul Play' in Michael Jackson's Death

Michael Jackson's been gone two weeks. There have been insane outpourings of sympathy and invective from fans and haters, respectively. There's been one of what will likely be many memorials, that had locals grumbling about the cost to the state...

Monday July 13, 2009

Ken Mansfield's Many Journeys

What do the Beatles, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Whitney Houston all have in common? Ken Mansfield. A former record executive who raced through the '60s and '70s on big expense accounts and marijuana-scented tour buses, Mansfield worked for them...

Wednesday July 8, 2009

Respects to All, Including Mr. McNamara

Apparently death isn't a strong news story if there's too many at one time. I fear our pop culture has become such a strong force in our nation that it may have more of an impact than it should upon...

Tuesday July 7, 2009

Michael Jackson's Spiritual Guilt

In 2001, a year after he wrote an essay for Beliefnet about growing up as a Jehovah's Witness, Michael Jackson participated in an online audio chat sponsored by GetMusic.com and RollingStone.com and moderated by writer Anthony DeCurtis. In it, he...

Thursday July 2, 2009

Kevin of 'Jonas Brothers' Is Engaged

Looks like the oldest JoBro is ready to give up his purity ring. People.com reports that Kevin, 21, proposed to his girlfriend of two years, Danielle Deleasa, 22, on Wednesday with a custom-designed engagement ring. The two lovebirds met...

Tuesday June 30, 2009

Beyonce's 'Ave Maria': Disrespectful Or Not?

In typical fashion, this year's BET Awards were a mishmash of randomness--not enough awards, too many sub-par performances and, even for a night that was to be dedicated to the late great King of Pop, Michael Jackson, it was barely...

Monday June 29, 2009

Top 10 Most Inspiring Michael Jackson Music Videos

Back when making music videos was an art form and a must for anyone hoping for chart-topping releases, Michael Jackson took it to another level. VH1 celebrated him with a full weekend of retrospective videos and provided viewers the...

Monday June 29, 2009

Prayer for Michael Jackson

The legacy of Michael Jackson continues as the memory of his passing still remains fresh in our minds. Say a prayer for him and for the Jacksons as they grieve and mourn the death of a son, a brother,...

Monday June 29, 2009

Michael, Farrah, Ed, and Billy: Where Are They Now?

My heart goes out to the families, friends and fans of Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Ed McMahon, and Billy Mays. I'm not sure I can remember a time when four celebrities passed away so close to each other, and...

Friday June 26, 2009

Michael Jackson: Pop Theologian?

Michael Jackson's music is everywhere in the air in New York City today. Walking along this morning, his songs were pouring into the streets from the doorways of shops. There was a crowd of about ten people, outside, singing "I'll...

Friday June 26, 2009

How We'll Remember Michael Jackson

I join with the legions who are mourning the death of Michael Jackson today. As Neil Diamond would have written--and will likely add to his stage version of the song--Michael is "Done Too Soon." His was a genius that went...

Tuesday June 23, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Chris Brown Gets Off Easy for Assault on Rihanna

Rapper Chris Brown has copped a deal after pleading guilty to one felony count of assault on ex-girlfriend, singer Rihanna. He received probation, community service, and will need to attend domestic-violence counseling. He faced more than 4 years in jail...

Tuesday June 23, 2009

Categories: Movies, Music, Video

Watch Trailer: 'Fame'

This film, based on the 1980 movie of the same name, follows talented students studying performing arts at a New York City high school. The movie is set to release September 25, 2009...

Monday June 15, 2009

Categories: Christian music, Movies, Music

Song from The Wrecking May Be Featured in 'New Moon'

Christian rockers The Wrecking are under consideration to have their song "Our Feet Don't Touch the Ground" used in the upcoming Twilight movie "New Moon." Joanne Brokaw over at Gospel Soundcheck, an admitted fan of the band, has details on...

Wednesday June 10, 2009

Categories: Music

Top 10 Songs of Summer

It's that time of year for road trips, day trips to the beach, picnics, and other warm weather activities. And of course, to go along with all of that summertime fun, what's better than some fun music? My personal playlist...

Monday June 8, 2009

Watch Trailer: 'Nine'

In this musical, Daniel Day-Lewis stars as a director going through a mid-life crisis, who struggles to complete a film. The all-star cast also includes Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Kate Hudson, Sophia Loren, Judi Dench, and many others. The film...

Friday June 5, 2009

Categories: Music, Video

Awesome Wedding Music Video

Thanks to Holly Rossi over at Fresh Living, for pointing out this wonderful music video created by a British couple at their wedding. Most (if not all) of the wedding party participated in lip-syncing the classic Queen song, "Don't Stop...

Thursday June 4, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Music, Video

Video: Joe Jonas Dances to 'Single Ladies'

More disturbing than witnessing Sasha Baron Cohen land in Eminem's lap during the MTV Movie Awards, is watching purity-ring-wearing Joe Jonas dance around in a leotard and heels, lip syncing Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" in an...

Tuesday June 2, 2009

Jennifer Hudson is...Preggers?

One of my teenage daughters recently asked me if I'd heard that "Jennifer Hudson was preggers?" Being the responsible journalist that I am, I was able to confirm the report at several sites including ones here and here. I...

Monday June 1, 2009

MTV Awards -- Ready For Prime Time Cable!

The MTV Movie Awards have always been wild, but I found myself in one of two places last night and I can't figure out which. Either I'm everything I never wanted to become in terms of being like my parents...

Friday May 22, 2009

Amy Grant Helps Promote Cancer Research

One of the most interesting media stories of our generation--in terms of personal development, professional growth and spiritual relevance--has been the journey of Amy Grant. From Evangelical Christian Music Star to Pop Music Crossover Success to Country Singer to Celebrity...

Friday May 22, 2009

The Christian Secular Culture Disclaimer

On the "Stuff Christians Like" blog website the other day, "Prodigal" Jon Acuff tries to come up with a "Christian Secular Culture Disclaimer"--a boilerplate excuse-me phrase like "Spoiler Alert!" or NSFW ("Not safe for work") that appears to warn Christians...

Friday May 22, 2009

Categories: Music

Aaron Strumpel's 'Elephants' is Unforgettable

I stopped writing about Christian music full-time several years ago, mainly because I became tired of using words like "fresh," "innovative," or "inspired" for music that often wasn't. In fact, it is a rare occurrence these days when I feel...

Thursday May 21, 2009

Categories: Music

Watch Video: Yusuf Islam on 'Colbert Report'

Yufuf Islam, the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens, made an appearance on "The Colbert Report" earlier this week to promote his new album, "Roadsinger." Apparently, the Muslim singer is going by his first name only these days as he...

Monday May 18, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Madonna and Jesus: Are They Tying the Kabbalah Knot ?

According to some reports, Madonna is going to marry Jesus (no, not that one)--and may have already done so over the weekend. In between a fling with A-Rod and an attempt to adopt another child from Malawi, Material Girl Madge...

Thursday May 14, 2009

Categories: Christian music, Music, Video

To All You 'SonSeed' Doubters: Zap!

Another shoe has dropped in the controversy over SonSeed, the band whose song "Jesus Is My Friend" inspired as many doubters as fans when it debuted on the blog "Dougsploitation" last year. Arena Rock Records announced Tuesday that it would...

Tuesday May 5, 2009

Miley Cyrus Pledges to Remain Virgin Until Married

"Hannah Montana" star Miley Cyrus has had her share of controvesy over the past year. Cyrus, now 16, posed for what some called "too sexy" photos for Annie Leibovitz and Vanity Fair back in 2008. Plus other personal photos of...

Monday May 4, 2009

Categories: Music

Pete Seeger: Bringing Us Together at 90

Pete Seeger, the great American folksinger, just turned 90 years old. Pete is a great believer in the power of music to bring people together. So what better way to celebrate his birthday than a sing-along with more than 15,000...

Monday May 4, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

David Cook's Brother Dies After Cancer Battle

David Cook, 2008's "American Idol" winner's brother has died after a battle with brain cancer. Cook announced his brother Adam's death yesterday during a benefit run for the National Brain Tumor Society where he was the Grand Marshall. You may...

Wednesday April 29, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Is Tupac Alive?

In the world of music and pop culture, the question "Is Tupac really dead?" will generate as many answers and explainations as "Is there a God?" and "What's the meaning of life?" Everyone has an opinion. According to media reports...

Tuesday April 28, 2009

Wynonna Judd on Her New CD, Death, and Dreams

Wynonna Judd is celebrating her 25th anniversary in the music industry. She released a new CD called "Sing: Chapter 1" in February, which includes cover songs from some of her favorites including Hank Williams' "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry"...

Monday April 27, 2009

Categories: Christian music, Music, Trends

Is the Christian Music Industry Dying?

Recently I was checking some concert schedules to see if my favorite Christian musicians are touring this summer. My family and I love Third Day's current stuff and we're nostalgic for the likes of Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis...

Wednesday April 22, 2009

Bono: The New Religion Opinion Columnist of The New York Times?

Bono of U2 is certainly known for his works (of activism, that is) and his music has always been known for its Christian influence--but Bono the Op-Ed columnist for The New York Times? Taking a place alongside the likes of...

Tuesday April 21, 2009

Susan Boyle or Paul Potts?

Like the rest of the world (or most of it), I am obsessively following talk of Susan Boyle--her glorious singing voice and her inspirational story (though I am the avoiding makeover talk because it is unfortunate and unnecessary.) And I'm...

Monday April 20, 2009

Adam Lambert Sings...in Hebrew

America loves Adam Lambert. As well they should, because the dude has serious stage presence and amazing vocal range and energy. But what many "Fanberts" (I'm coining that phrase now) might not have known is that he can also take...

Monday April 20, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Why Does Susan Boyle Need a Makeover?

Along with the rest of America, I was immediately captivated by Susan Boyle's inspiring performance on "Britain's Got Talent." Yet I am equally as dismayed at how quickly the discussion of Ms. Boyle's extreme makeover has taken off. What made...

Friday April 17, 2009

Categories: Music, Television

Susan Boyle's Makeover

As was to be expected, now that overnight singing sensation Susan Boyle has won over the hearts of the "Britain's Got Talent" judges--as well as almost anyone who's seen her performance--many are speculating that the show's producers are going to...

Wednesday April 15, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

John Mayer Attracted to Jessica Simpson's 'Spiritual Side'

Reason #759 to hate John Mayer. According to sources who spoke with the New York Post's Page Six, When Mayer and Simpson were dating, he was really with her for her looks and preferred it when she was quiet. John...

Thursday April 9, 2009

Categories: Music

Bruce Cockburn's Offering a New 'Slice O' Life'

I returned to folk artist Bruce Cockburn's music a couple of years ago when he released"Life Short Call Now," one of the best recordings I listened to that year. Now Cockburn has a new two CD live set called "Slice...

Wednesday April 8, 2009

Categories: Music, Video

Music Video: '20 Things To Do With Matzah'

In honor of Passover, check out this hilarious (and well done!) music video detailing all the wonderful things you can do with unleavened bread....

Monday April 6, 2009

Categories: Music

Download a New Sam Phillips Song for Free

I recently posted a list of songs to celebrate the coming of spring, but I am already going to alter that list and add one more song. One of my favorite artisits, Sam Phillips, is offfering a free download...

Wednesday April 1, 2009

Categories: Music

Top 10 Songs to Celebrate Spring Fever

To say I have spring fever right now is an understatement. I still have snow outside my window but no, I cannot see Russia from my house. Spring still seems a long way away to me even though it may...

Tuesday March 31, 2009

Categories: Music, Video

A Tribute to Selena

Thank you Perez Hilton for reminding me that 14 years ago today, the world lost one of the most talented female artists to ever cross over between Tejano music and English pop music, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. Although I cannot say that...

Thursday March 26, 2009

Categories: Music

Korn's Fieldy Comes Out as Christian in New Book

Musician Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu, the bass player for Korn, who recently came out publically as a Christian in a new book, "Got the Life: My Journey of Addiction, Faith, Recovery, and Korn." You may remember a few years ago, another...

Thursday March 26, 2009

Categories: Music

Kareem Salama: A Muslim Country Singer for Your iPod

When I think of Muslim musicians, the genres of hip hop, rap, maybe a little rock, and of course the more religious category of nasheeds and Sufi-type music come to mind. But what about country? Putting aside the whole...

Thursday March 19, 2009

Bluetree: You Two Can Be a Worship Band

Did you know that the Beatles named themselves after Buddy Holly's band, the Crickets and that several of the early Beatlemania hits are essentially skiffled-up versions of Holly songs? Keep this in mind, anyway, when you encounter "God of This...

Wednesday March 18, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Television

LeAnn Rimes Cheating on Husband, Magazine Claims

And more of this month in Christian celebrity infidelity... First Jon Gosselin and now LeAnn Rimes? According to US Weekly, married singer Rimes is having an affair with married actor Eddie Cibrian, whom she met on the set of a...

Wednesday March 18, 2009

Categories: Music

'American Idol''s Adam Lambert Covers 'Ring of Fire'

I'm not going to pretend that I've been following "American Idol" this season (Joanne Brokaw over at Gospel Soundcheck has been doing a very good job at that), but when I heard one of the finalists, Adam Lambert, covered one...

Wednesday March 11, 2009

Mandisa Gaining Success, Losing Weight

In a new article on CNN, "American Idol" finalist and Christian music star Mandisa talks about her weight loss (75 pounds and counting) and her new album, "Freedom" which hits stores March 24. She says she has forgiven "Idol" judge...

Wednesday March 4, 2009

Spinal Tap Tour Announced: 'Taking it to 11' in 30 Cities

Twenty-five years later, and the "Spinal Tap" gang is getting the band back together. The trio at the core of Spinal Tap, a fake heavy metal band profiled in the mockumentary "This is Spinal Tap," Harry Shearer, Christopher Guest and...

Wednesday February 25, 2009

Categories: Music

U2's 'No Line on the Horizon' Already Available on MySpace

One of the most successful rock bands in history certainly knows how to exploit today's technology. Though U2's first recording in over four years is scheduled to debut on March 3, "No Line on the Horizon" is already getting rave...

Friday February 13, 2009

The Fray: Nothing Lost in Their Second Album

It makes sense that, when young Christian rockers began to struggle free of the mannered CCM format, they would gravitate toward emo, the brooding, melodic rock genre that trades punk's teenage angst for teenage "issues." Exhibit A: The Fray, a...

Thursday February 12, 2009

Categories: Books, Celebrities, Music

T.D. Jakes' Son Arrested for Indecent Exposure

Jermaine Jakes, son of prominent Christian author, pastor, filmmaker and music artist T.D. Jakes has been arrested in an undercover sex sting in Dallas. Joanne Brokaw over at Gospel Soundcheck has the scoop....

Tuesday February 10, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Praying for Chris Brown and Rihanna

As more information gets released about the alleged domestic violence situation between Chris Brown and Rihanna, we will be in the position to do one of two things, continue to gawk and be fascinated with it, sharing every detail we...

Tuesday February 10, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Music

David Byrne's Spiritual, Not Riveting Albums

I'm betraying myself as incorrigibly uncool by mentioning this, but David Byrne has a couple of new albums out. "Everything That Happens Will Happen Today," made with Brian Eno, slunk onto the web last August with the lack of fanfare...

Monday February 9, 2009

Decent Duets Can't Lift Pall Over Grammys

I'm a music lover, and believe it can bring so much inspiration in times of trials and challenges. And music of faith is as wonderful as it is essential. And so it is that I was disappointed during most of...

Monday February 9, 2009

Categories: Music, Pop Culture, Television

God and Sinners at the Grammys

Still in the early going, the Grammys telecast has a savvy mix of blasphemy and gospel going. Notice how Kid Rock dressed as a parson and sang "Rock and Roll Jesus," followed (after a palate cleanser of pure spun sugar...

Friday February 6, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Music

What's Your Favorite Love Song?

With Valentine's Day approaching--and in these days of mp3 and YouTube technology where you can watch and listen to oldies as easy as today's tunes--we thought it'd be great to name the Top 15 Most Inspiring Love Songs of all-time....

Wednesday January 21, 2009

What, the Grammys?

The poor Grammys have a tough road. (If you don't know what the Grammys are, then that will prove my point even further!) January is a pop culture tour de force, complete with the Golden Globe Awards, the launch of...

Monday January 5, 2009

The Palladia Channel: TV's Best-Kept Secret

One of the most raw and inspiring concert performers of our time is Bruce Springsteen, and one of the most recognizably tight bands of all time is his E Street Band. As such, tickets to the concerts are expensive...

Tuesday December 30, 2008

Muslim Punks Grow from a Novel Inspiration

The New York Times has a story about Muslim punk rockers, the amazing life-imitates-art phenomenon of "The Taqwacores," a novel by Michael Muhammad Knight.  They didn't exist until Knight's novel started circulating in the Muslim teen community. "This book helped...

Tuesday December 23, 2008

Amy Grant's Favorite Christmas Albums

Discussing her own recent Christmas compilation with Amy Grant the other day, I asked the Christian rock diva about her favorite Christmas albums of all time. The classic Nat King Cole disc is a given, and we're going to give...

Friday December 19, 2008

Singing with Sarah and Writing With Vince: A Christmas Chat with Amy Grant

"The Christmas Collection," Amy Grant's second album with her new label, EMI, is mostly re-released holiday hits from the past, but it has a few surprises, including a cover of a Barbra Streisand arrangement of "Jingle Bells" and a new...

Friday December 19, 2008

Categories: Music

Send Free Music to a Soldier for the Holidays

I just came across this in my inbox and it's something I'd love to share. Billboard is giving away free music to enlisted members of the U.S. Army (I'll ignore for now the fact that this giveaway doesn't include the...

Monday December 8, 2008

Categories: Music

Enya's 'And Winter Came': An Ode to the Season

Enya's seventh studio album, "And Winter Came," is not so much a holiday album as it is an ambient ode to the season. Featuring ten original winter/holiday-themed compositions and two traditional Christmas carols, the CD features the "choir of one"...

Friday December 5, 2008

Categories: Music

New 'Lights' and 'Songs in the Key' of Hanukkah

Even if Christmas doesn't represent an annual temptation for Jews, there's one area where Hanukkah can't hold a candle (sorry) to Christmas: Christmas music trumps "I Have a Little Dreidel" every time. Most Hanukkah songs sound like they were created...

Thursday December 4, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Jessica Simpson to Study Religion?

Although many people will probably laugh off reports that actress/singer Jessica Simpson is interested in returning to college to study theology, as reported by Marie Clair via The New York Post's Page Six, religion has always been a part of...

Thursday December 4, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Politics, Video

Watch Video: 'Prop 8: The Musical'

John C. Reilly, Neil Patrick Harris, Jack Black, and others form a big-name cast performing "Hairspray" composer Marc Shaiman's new online video about the gay marriage ban recently passed in California. In the musical, two rival groups--conservative Christians (headed by...

Wednesday December 3, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music

U2's Christmas Exclusive Now Available at (Red) Wire

Once again artists are taking their message to the web to reach their fans first. Those socially conscious rockers U2 have released a new Christmas tune, "I Believe in Father Christmas" over at (Red) Wire, along with several other top...

Wednesday November 26, 2008

Categories: Music, Trends

Advice for Saudi Arabia's Rockers

When rock goes up against religion, why does it always start with heavy metal? The New York Times recently reported on an all-girl rock band in Saudi Arabia that has a hit with their song "Pinocchio," a wail about love...

Tuesday November 25, 2008

What Is Joan Osborne Thankful for This Year?

I recently got the chance to speak to singer Joan Osborne, who--even if you aren't a fan--you probably know from her hit 1995 single, "One of Us." [Oh, you know the words: "What if God was one of us/Just a...

Monday November 24, 2008

Categories: Music

Michael Jackson Converts to Islam

Don't call him the King of Pop anymore, because Michael Jackson has converted to Islam and wants to be called Mikaeel. The 50-year-old pop star took his shahada (oath of faith) in Los Angeles on Friday, as reported by news...

Thursday November 20, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Prince's Bible-Thumping Rants in 'The New Yorker'

I remember Prince for his risque lyrics and videos back in my middle school and teen years, when "Purple Rain" was his claim to fame. My mother forbid me to see the movie and listen to his music, at...

Thursday November 13, 2008

'American Idol' Suicide: Don't Blame the Show

Tuesday evening an obsessive Paul Abdul fan, Paula Goodspeed, committed suicide by drug overdose, in front of the "American Idol" judges' home. Goodspeed, who had tried out for the hit reality show before---and was completely panned by Simon, Randy, and...

Thursday November 13, 2008

Categories: Books, Celebrities, Music

Matisyahu on Music, Religion, and Charity

Recently a wonderful book came across my desk called "Awearness: Inspiring Stories About How to Make a Difference," by clothing designer and humanitarian Kenneth Cole. The book is a compilation of essays by such well known celebrity-activists as Elton John,...

Tuesday November 4, 2008

Categories: Music

Enter to Win: Celtic Woman's New CD/DVD

The worldwide sensation Celtic Woman has just released their new CD/DVD "The Greatest Journey: Essential Collection." If you're a fan of Celtic music, you will absolutely love this group (if you don't already!) Beliefnet has 5 copies of the CD/DVD...

Monday October 27, 2008

Some Obama-Love from Religious Folks and Another Funny Video...

So the word from the Pew Research Center is that "religious voters appear to be gradually gravitating toward Barack Obama as their pick for president." While Obama is edging out McCain among the mainline Protestant demographic, apparently, "McCain still holds...

Friday October 24, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Pop Culture

Britney Now, Then, Virtually Forever

October has been a banner month for Britney Spears fans. Her new single, "Womanizer," set an arcane record of the kind that baseball stat geeks love to cite--the song was the first to go from no. 96 to no. 1...

Thursday October 23, 2008

Watch Music Video: 'American Prayer'

Check out this new movie video by musician/record producer Dave Stewert of a song he co-wrote with Bono called "American Prayer." According to the website My American Prayer "the video brings together a diverse cast of personalities to reflect the...

Wednesday October 22, 2008

Early Billy Graham, the Album

Remember when the Second Coming was imagined as an awesome but beautiful moment? What's been lost in the rise of the Rapture Right in the past two decades is the yearning for the hope that ordinary Christians--the meek, say--have traditionally...

Monday October 20, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Music, Politics

Watch: Sarah Palin on 'SNL'

Did anyone catch Sarah Palin on "Saturday Night Live" this weekend? What did you think of the Sarah Palin rap on Weekend Update? I have to say, watching her raise the roof was pretty funny....

Monday October 20, 2008

It's All 'Material': Her Madgesty's Marriage, Money, and Religion

As any Brit knows, in cases of English celebrity/superrich divorce, settlements tend to favor the less wealthy party. (Just ask Sir Paul McCartney.) Especially if there's no prenup. Which is one of the reasons that the terms of the in-negotiations...

Friday October 17, 2008

'Reverend' Neil Diamond?!

I've heard Neil Diamond's music before and loved it. But I never thought it'd be time to call him Reverend Neil! Let me explain. What do you do when you're 67 years old, on a world-wide tour, after having lost...

Tuesday September 30, 2008

Sarah Silverman, The Great Schlep, and Jews Who Get Out the Vote

Okay so Sarah Silverman is known for her outrageous comedy skits but this one tops all: she's done a video urging all Jews in the United States to take Florida by storm, making a special visit to their Jewish grandparents...

Wednesday September 24, 2008

Clay, Lindsay, Ellen, Lance, and Brad: The Week in Gay News

With Lindsay Lohan officially announcing that she's been dating Samantha Ronson for "a very long time" and Clay Aiken (finally) coming out in his most recent feature story in People, it might be time to look at the week in...

Tuesday September 23, 2008

Lenny Kravitz Offers Free Download in Honor of Peace Day

My friend (OK, Myspace friend) Lenny Kravitz sent out this bulletin on Myspace today in recognition of International Peace Day. Dear Friends, Did you know that Sunday Sept 21st was international Peace Day? Unfortunately it doesn't get the press it...

Tuesday September 16, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Threats Against McCartney Because of Intended Israel Trip

So much for "I Wanna Hold Your Hand" and "All We Need Is Love." Such messages are apparently lost on "self-styled preacher of hate" Omar Bakri, who--according to the UK Daily Express--has threatened knighted Beatle Paul McCartney that "he will...

Monday September 15, 2008

Attend a Sam Phillips Concert for Free!

Though I am a huge fan, I have never made it to a Sam Phillips concert--not even when she played a Christian college a few hours away from me last week--but Monday night I will have a chance and I...

Monday September 15, 2008

Categories: Christian music, Music

Enter to Win: Chris Tomlin's CD 'Hello Love'

Christian singer Chris Tomlin is known for such popular worship hits such as "How Great Is Our God," "We Fall Down," and "Holy Is the Lord," and this year, for the second year in a row, won the Gospel Music...

Wednesday September 10, 2008

Categories: Movies, Music

'Awake My Soul': Inspirational Documentary Plays for Free

As yet another example of how filmmakers are purposefully taking their production out of the hands of studios and going straight to the consumers, the critically acclaimed documentary "Awake My Soul" is now playing for free for a limited time...

Thursday September 4, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Music

'El Father' Finds the Father, Wraps his Rap Career

Before you read this item, reggaeton fans, remember: what's the use of gaining the world if you lose your soul? Hector Delgado, a pioneering practitioner of the Latin rap genre reggaeton, announced yesterday that he's devoting himself and his musical...

Thursday September 4, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Madonna's Latest 'Like a Prayer' Controversy

Say what you want about Madonna, but you always know where you stand with her. For instance, whether you're Hitler or John McCain, it doesn't really matter to the controversial Madame Madge: if she goes on tour, you're going in...

Tuesday August 19, 2008

David Byrne Talks Godhead

You don't think of former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne as an evangelist, except for those crazy Brazilian, African and Afro-Caribbean beats that practically broke poor drummer Chris Frantz's wrists and led Byrne off to a solo career of promoting...

Tuesday August 19, 2008

Categories: Christian music, Music

A Love/Hate Relationship with the Jonas Brothers

If you're like Gospel Soundcheck's Joanne Brokaw, you may be conflicted about the hottest boy band of the moment, the Jonas Brothers. In her post, "5 Things I Hate About the Jonas Brothers," Brokaw talks about the "bigger than oxygen"...

Monday August 11, 2008

Steven Curtis Chapman Inspires on Larry King

Earlier this summer, a celebrity's son ran over his daughter in a car. The daughter was killed. The son had to deal with the guilt. And, the celebrity is a Christian singer who is gifted, beloved and above reproach, a...

Monday August 11, 2008

McCain and Obama's Favorite Superheroes

Presumed presidential nominees John McCain and Barack Obama have revealed their favorite pop culture icons, including superheroes, with McCain favoring Batman and Obama, Spider-Man and Batman, according to Reuters. I find myself asking two glaring questions: 1. Was this a...

Monday August 4, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Music

The Madg-ificent Premiere of Madonna's 'I Am Because We Are'

Yes, almost the entire pop culture world turned its eyes last Saturday might to...Traverse City, Michigan as Madonna came to town to screen her documentary "I Am Because We Are." That might be a slight exaggeration but it certainly didn't...

Monday August 4, 2008

A New Day Dawns for Twilight Fans!

Hello all you excited Twilight fans! The moment has arrived..."Breaking Dawn" is available! Please check out my geekiest-ever report for Publishers Weekly on my night out with Stephenie Meyer, at the "Breaking Dawn" concert in New York City the night...

Friday August 1, 2008

Watch 'Breaking Dawn' Book Release Concert Live, Tonight!

Words can't express how excited I am to be going to the special New York City launch party for Stephenie Meyer's "Breaking Dawn" tonight at the Nokia Theater in Times Sqaure. But if you can't join the party...or you couldn't...

Tuesday July 29, 2008

Categories: Music

John Mellencamp: L.E.F.T. in the U.S.A.

There's still a little bit of summer left, and if you can I encourage you to get out to a John Mellencamp concert, for at least three reasons. First, you won't believe how many of his songs you'll know, and...

Wednesday July 23, 2008

Categories: Books, Music, Pop Culture, Trends

It's Officially (Stephenie Meyer) Vampire Week on Beliefnet!

Okay, so maybe it's a little more than a week and maybe I don't really have the authority to do this, but I am singlehandedly declaring it Vampire Week on Beliefnet. (Or, um, Vampire 10 Days? But don't you think...

Friday July 18, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Music

Miley Cyrus: A Week of Sex, God, and a Slip of the Finger

While Miley Cyrus is on the cover of the latest issue of TV Guide Magazine promoting her new album and new movie--as well as virginity and the fact that God is one of the seven things she can't do without--I...

Thursday July 17, 2008

Categories: Music

Coldplay: Stuff White People Like

The Internet sensation Stuff White People Like has just been released in book form. The items listed on the satirical website receive more detailed treatment, but surely, amidst the affection for organic food (#6), yoga (#15), and public radio (#44),...

Monday July 14, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Selling Out 'Give Peace a Chance'? Give Us a Break

Okay, there's some cynicism brewing out there about today's sale at a London auction house of John Lennon's scrawled lyrics to "Give Peace a Chance." Gail Renard, a Canadian television writer who lives in London, parted with the scrap of...

Friday June 27, 2008

Categories: Music

Katy 'I Kissed a Girl' Perry, One-Time Christian Singer

It's pretty much inevitable that sometime this summer you'll hear Katy Perry's hit single "I Kissed a Girl" blaring out of someone's car, or in a dance club, or in a department store, if you haven't already. And, if...

Thursday June 19, 2008

Disney Ventures into Purity Rings and Chastity Pledges with the Jonas Brothers

Everyone who either has a tween or knows one also knows that Disney churns out (more or less) family-friendly pop stars (see Hannah Montana) and one-offs like "High School Musical" (and its sequel) to unbelievable success--feeding the hopes, dreams, and...

Thursday May 29, 2008

Categories: Music

Sam Phillips 'Don't Do Anything' Is Really Something

My love of Sam Phillips's music is unabashedly deep and goes back many years. I have listened to her distinctive voice since I was a little girl, when she went by the name Leslie Phillips and was busy fighting the...

Thursday May 22, 2008

Categories: Music

'Tooth of Crime': T-Bone Sinks His Teeth Into a New Recording

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Thursday May 8, 2008

Categories: Music

6 Songs for Israel's 60th

In a movie, whenever there's a song associated with Israel or Jews, it's automatically "Hava Nagila," and I'm here to tell you it's enough already. (It's also enough with the Manischewitz jokes, but we'll get to that at some future...

Tuesday May 6, 2008

Categories: Music

Top 10 Songs About Heaven

Heaven, along with heart, may be the most overused word in the pop lexicon. What I'm after here is not the tunes that insist that kisses are heaven or that heaven only knows what's going to happen to our love....

Monday May 5, 2008

Categories: Music

Neil Diamond is Actually 'Pretty Amazing' This Time Out

A friend and I were chatting last week about singers and songwriters who’ve managed to change and adapt, aging gracefully while writing relevantly. James Taylor is one. Sting is another. The Eagles and R.E.M. also come to mind, as does...

Friday May 2, 2008

Categories: Music

Top 5 Love Song 'Couples'

There are a lot of love songs out there. Some of them I love, no matter what my romantic status. And others make you want to re-enact all those scenes you see in movies, when the protagonist looks at himself...

Wednesday April 23, 2008

Categories: Music

My Gospel Music Award Predictions

Christian music's big chance to shine happens tonight when the Gospel Music Awards, or the Dove Awards, are given for outstanding commercial--and occasionally critical--success on the airwaves this year. Instead of being televised weeks later, as in years past, the...

Tuesday April 22, 2008

Categories: Music

Watch Video: Kelly Clarkson Performs for the Pope

"American Idol's" Kelly Clarkson sang the classic hymn Ave Maria for Pope Benedict XVI during his visit to Saint Joseph's Seminary in Yonkers, NY last Saturday. His Holiness looks like he enjoyed it, smiling a number of times throughout the...

Thursday April 10, 2008

Categories: Music

Annie Lennox Inspires on 'Idol Gives Back'

Last night's two and a half hour long celebrity installment of "Idol Gives Back" ranged from the bizarre (Teri Hatcher?) to the popular-but-not-inspirational (Fergie) to the truly meaningful. British singer Annie Lennox was one of the few celebrities who seemed...

Tuesday April 8, 2008

Categories: Music

Listen to John Shannon's 'Somewhere'

You may not have heard of John Shannon, but you will soon. The soulful singer-songwriter just released his debut album, "American Mystic." Many of the songs on the album were inspired by Shannon's experiences at a meditation retreat in the...

Monday April 7, 2008

Categories: Music

Watch Video: Jenny Burton Performs 'I Stand For You'

If you're a dance music fan, you may remember Jenny Burton from her days in C-Bank, the band behind the 80s freestyle hit, "One More Shot," which topped the dance music charts. Burton also found success soon afterwards as a...

Tuesday March 25, 2008

Categories: Music

Monks Rock YouTube, Score Record Deal

Their music is ancient, their lifestyle medieval, but a group of Cistercian monks from Holy Cross Monastery near Vienna secured a recording contract with Universal Music using the latest craze on the Internet: YouTube. Their video audition came in response...

Monday March 24, 2008

Categories: Music

Will Lenny Kravitz Start a Celibacy 'Revolution'?

As rocker Lenny Kravitz is about to begin an international tour to promote his first studio album ("It's Time for a Love Revolution") in four years, he has also been promoting something very un-rock 'n roll like--celibacy. But the...

Friday March 14, 2008

Categories: Music

Listen to Chris Sligh's 'Empty Me'

Chris Sligh finished in tenth place on the sixth season of "American Idol." Chris' humor and unique style, along with his choice to sing songs by Christian bands like Mute Math and dc Talk, made him one of the most...

Tuesday March 11, 2008

Categories: Music

U2's Music in the Name of Love

If you haven't already seen it yet, be sure to check out our new U2 gallery, comprised of spiritual and inspirational quotes and lyrics from Bono and company, along with fabulous photos from their new movie, "U2 3D." And, be...

Thursday March 6, 2008

Categories: Music

Ultra-Orthodox Rabbis Just Say No to Music Concert

Before I start this entry, let me just say that Orthodox Jews are not against music. To the contrary, music figures prominently in liturgical recitations, holiday celebrations, and of course at bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings, and other family simchas (occasions of...

Wednesday March 5, 2008

Categories: Music

'Duets': Anne Murray's Latest Isn't Quite Legendary

While not particularly a fan of Anne Murray's mellow croonings about love and loss, I was curious about her latest effort "'Duets: Friends and Legends." I enjoy it when unlikely combination of singers join together to create a fresh twist...

Tuesday March 4, 2008

Categories: Music

Listen to "Free at Last" by The Blind Boys of Alabama

Click on the photo below to listen to a song from the album "Down in New Orleans" by the critically acclaimed gospel band, The Blind Boys of Alabama. Then, click here to read Paul O'Donnell's interview with the band's drummer,...

Monday March 3, 2008

Categories: Christian music, Music

'I'm Not Blind, I Just Can't See': A Chat with the Blind Boys' Ricky McKinnie

Ricky McKinnie has been playing with the gospel legends The Blind Boys of Alabama for more than three decades, and that makes him one of the new guys. First recorded in the 1940s, the Blind Boys were known mostly to...

Friday February 22, 2008

Categories: Music

Blind Boys of Alabama Go Down to New Orleans

Spending five decades on the black gospel circuit is called paying your dues, but now that mainstream success has come for the Blind Boys of Alabama, they aren't thinking about paying themselves back. As they sing in their new CD...

Thursday February 21, 2008

Categories: Music

Ledisi's 'Lost and Found' Is a Find

In her third album, 2007 Grammy Award Nominee Ledisi promises "fiery vocals, funk-up rhythm and absolute soul." And in her 14 full tracks (and two mini-tracks) that make up "Lost and Found," she delivers. As one of Billboard Magazine's "Top...

Monday February 11, 2008

Categories: Music

Amy Winehouse: The Spirit of the Grammys

Amy Winehouse was not only the big winner at The Grammys last night, she was kind of a mascot for a broadcast that, as The New York Times pointed out today, were oddly haunted by loss. Video-ported in from London...

Monday February 11, 2008

Categories: Christian music, Music

The Grammy's Gospel Segment

In what was one of the highlights of last night's Grammy Awards, Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin performed a moving deut of "Never Gonna Break My Faith" with gospel star BeBe Winans. In addition, gospel artists The Clark Sisters, Trin-I-Tee...

Monday February 11, 2008

Categories: Music

My Top 3 Grammy Moments

I don't usual watch the Grammys but something about this year's nominees and the promise of some legendary match-ups on stage (Aretha and BeBe Winans, Beyonce and Tina Turner) made me want to tune in. And while I am sure...

Friday January 25, 2008

Categories: Music

Winehouse Enters Wine-Free House (That's Rehab, Folks)

In the world of pop culture blogging and Google Image searching, you learn some valuable lessons. Firstly, there are way too many photos of Britney Spears on the internet. (And some of them are "not safe for work.") But second...

Friday January 18, 2008

Categories: Movies, Music

U2 in 3D: Music to Change the World

Unlike some of my colleagues here at Beliefnet, I am not a huge music person. I've got my favorite tunes and artists, but I don't live and breathe music, there isn't a soundtrack to my life constantly playing at home...

Wednesday December 19, 2007

Categories: Music

Listen to Christmas Carols from Top Music Stars

In what’s starting to become a holiday favorite on Beliefnet, “Caroling with the Stars” features songs from the year’s best Christmas albums by today’s top artists. You can listen to the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s big band version of “Jingle Bells,”...

Monday December 17, 2007

Categories: Music

"Same Auld Lang Syne" Evokes Regret, Now Even More So

Every year, there's a holiday-time song that gets to me (even more than that Folgers commercial where the kid comes home to surprise his parents). It's about life, loss, regret, and what happens when reality intrudes on your hopes...

Tuesday December 4, 2007

Categories: Music

The LeeVees: How Do You Spell Channukkahh?

Happy However-You-Spell-It to all who are celebrating it!...

Wednesday November 28, 2007

Categories: Music

The Songs, Mostly, Remain the Same

Ah, the holidays, time for family feasts, parties, and rock-radio countdowns of the greatest songs of all time. At Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's, classic-rock stations traditionally turn to these listener-driven stunts (“You picked 'em, we’re playing ‘em") to salvage...

Thursday November 22, 2007

Categories: Music

Diamond's 'Caroline' is a Kennedy? Sweet...

Now a staple at karaoke bars, Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" has been plaguing--oops, I meant "entertaining"--music fans for years. Forty years, actually. (Which is how long the Jews wandered, post-Egypt, in the desert before reaching the Holy Land. But...

Tuesday November 20, 2007

Categories: Music

Steven Curtis Chapman: Share "This Moment"

If you’re driving this Thanksgiving weekend, buy and listen to Steven Curtis Chapman’s first new CD project in three years, “This Moment.” SCC fans will love and appreciate this new collection of material that combines a fresh themes and lyrics...

Monday November 19, 2007

Categories: Music

MercyMe: Don't Skip the New Album

Click here to listen to the song, "Time Has Come" and to see the music chords. No matter how much you may idolize a band, it's inevitable that you skip at least one or two songs on every CD....

Friday October 26, 2007

Categories: Music

Salt-n-Pepa: Let's Talk About...God?

When female rap pioneers Salt-n-Pepa disbanded in 2002 it seemed like the typical band breakup: Cheryl "Salt" James couldn't take the harsh glare of fame and the exhausting lifestyle that came with it, while Sandy "Pepa" Denton was ready to...

Thursday October 25, 2007

Categories: Music

Casting Crowns Joins Beliefnet's Community

Popular Christian rockers Casting Crowns have the distinction of being the first band to post a profile and fan club on our new social networking site. The band most recently topped the music charts with their new album, "The Altar...

Tuesday October 23, 2007

Categories: Music

Enter to Win: Sinead O'Connor's 'Theology'

Controversial Catholic singer, Sinead O'Connor--who you may remember as "that woman who ripped up the a photo of Pope John Paul II on TV" is currently on tour promoting her new album, "Theology." The two-CD set consists of an acoustic...

Thursday October 18, 2007

Categories: Music

Springsteen's "Magic" Endures

Bruce Springsteen’s “Magic” has been winning fans and critics alike in its initial weeks of release. Some are liking it for its inspiration. Some are wowed by his maturity. Some just love a grittier sound that’s closer to classic rock...

Tuesday October 16, 2007

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Music

Tom Petty, Humble Heartbreaker

Last night my husband and I saw the four-hour Peter Bogdanovich mega-documentary "Runnin' Down a Dream: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers" during its one-night-only showing in Boston (the movie will soon be released on DVD). The film painted a remarkable...

Friday October 12, 2007

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Music

"Refuge Rock Sublime": Mare Winningham Sings the Jews

Children of the John Hughes generation know Mare Winningham as the earnest-faced innocent from St. Elmo's Fire (cue David Foster's evocative love theme); or as Meredith Grey's doomed stepmother on Grey's Anatomy. (Oops, I guess that was a spoiler. Sorry....

Thursday October 4, 2007

Categories: Music

'Hope and Glory': Ann Wilson's Political Anthems

While I am somewhat of a fan of the music group Heart, I haven’t exactly ever found myself to be a fan of political protest songs in general--which poses a bit of a conundrum regarding Ann Wilson's first solo effort,...

Thursday September 27, 2007

Categories: Music

Joni Mitchell's Back...and She's Ticked

American Catholics who want to register offense at Joni Mitchell's new album, "Shine," had better take a number. Mitchell takes aim at Wall Street, Las Vegas, people who talk on cell phones while driving, polluters, bridezillas, and a clergyman...

Friday September 21, 2007

Categories: Music

The "Essential" Jars of Clay Collection

Jars of Clay recently released a retrospective called "The Essential Jars of Clay," and unlike some retrospectives, this one is, well, essential. If you’re not a Jars of Clay fan, this is a great opportunity to get in on a...

Tuesday September 11, 2007

Max Lucado Defines 3:16 and 9-11

9-11 and 3:16. What do those two numbers mean to you? For Max Lucado and his publishing teams, the first is the release date of a host of new products, and the second is the product itself. “What if hope...

Friday September 7, 2007

Categories: Music

Amy Winehouse Seeks Rehab Help from a Rabbi?

Amy Winehouse may not want to go to rehab, but how about to a rabbi? TMZ.com reports that the manic depressive soul singer and her husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, are turning to Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin, director of Drugsline a London-based, non-denominational...

Wednesday September 5, 2007

Categories: Music

What Kills Rockers? Sex, Drugs and Reunion Tours

More than 30 years after the song told us "If there's a rock 'n roll heaven, you know they have a hell of a band," British scientists have ploughed through a half-century's worth of statistics--and, no doubt, several thousand pounds...

Tuesday September 4, 2007

Categories: Music

Rick Rubin: Music Mogul & Guru of all Faiths

This week's New York Times Magazine features Rick Rubin, the new "co-head" of Columbia records, who is posed as ... what exactly is portrayed on the magazine's cover? A pseudo-Jesus figure with his long beard and eyes closed in contemplation?...

Tuesday August 28, 2007

Categories: Movies, Music, Pop Culture

Scarlett Johannson: A Refreshingly Non-Scandalous Star

Here’s some amazing news from Hollywood: a young actress is emerging as a star and she hasn’t—repeat has not—been arrested...

Monday August 27, 2007

Prince's Take on the Bible

And the newest televangelist is … Prince! Okay, not really. In fact, he’s really just a pop culture icon and singer who talks about his faith. And, okay, there's probably quite a few religious leaders who would question his theology....

Thursday August 23, 2007

Categories: Music

Gwen Stefani's Take on Muslim Fashion

With her ultra-coiffed platinum blond hair, naval-bearing fashion sense, and rock-star attitude, singer Gwen Stefani, at 37 years of age, is still one hot mama on the concert circuit. She's got the rocker husband (Gavin Rossdale), the hippest accesory in...

Monday August 20, 2007

Categories: Music

Over the Rhine's "Trumpet Child"

I have been reading author/critic/blogger Jeffrey Overstreet's continuous and always glowing comments about musical duo Over The Rhine for over a year now without having a clue who they are. But since I agree with most of his opinions on...

Thursday August 16, 2007

Categories: Celebrities, Music

Billy Bob's 'Beautiful Door'

You have to admire Billy Bob Thornton's consistency. A dozen years ago, when he was up for an Oscar for his self-directed performance in "Sling Blade," he told the Washington Post, "I think religion is a good thing. The problem...

Tuesday August 14, 2007

Categories: Music

Enter to Win: Shane & Shane CD Collection

Popular Christian group Shane & Shane—comprised of friends Shane Barnard and Shane Everett—has been bringing a hip, acoustic, pop-rock sound to praise music for 10 years, headlining shows with big-names Mat Kearney, David Crowder Band, and Bethany Dillon, among others....

Monday August 13, 2007

Categories: Music

Pakistani Musicians Make Anti-Terrorism Video

The number one song in Pakistan right now is "Ne Hum Naheen," or "This isn't Us," a moving anti-terrorism music video made by the top eight Pakistani pop stars. As it gains popularity, the song is starting to sweep the...

Wednesday August 8, 2007

Categories: Music

Top 10 'Angel' Songs

Here at Beliefnet, everyone loves angels. We even have an entire section of the site devoted to them. I think angels are great and all, but as with anything, sometimes you just want to get away from the stuff...

Tuesday August 7, 2007

Categories: Music

Third Day Wears Success Comfortably

Christian rock insiders have found a lot to criticize about the second volume of Third Day's retrospective, "Chronology"---it omits some of the southern rockers' hits in favor of covers and to some, comes off more adult contemporary that Christian...

Friday August 3, 2007

BarlowGirl: Spiritual Songs with Purpose

If you're a person of faith looking for a great sound that you can share with your friends and kids--or if you’re a Christian who struggles to be bold and stand up for your faith--then BarlowGirl’s "How Can We Be...

Thursday August 2, 2007

Categories: Music

Christian Rock's Evolution

In yesterday's Slate, Erik Davis (whose own site TechGnosis sits at the corner of sci-fi fantasy and visionary spirituality) has a review of "Frisbee," the soundtrack to last year's Emmy-winning documentary on founding Jesus Freak Larry Frisbee. Davis is enthusiastic...

Wednesday August 1, 2007

Categories: Music

Stryper is a Christian Rock Band!

Are there any Stryper fans out there? Or ex-Stryper fans? I’ll bet there are very few new Stryper fans, but I think I'm one of 'em, and you will be too if you pick up their new release, "Stryper—The Roxx...

Monday July 23, 2007

Categories: Music

Singer Chris Rice Grows Up

Those who follow Chris Rice will notice he’s growing up in a lot of ways, at least if his newest album, "What a Heart is Beating For" is any indication. It’s mellow, jazzy, reflective, and indicative of, well, the kind...

Friday July 20, 2007

McCartney "Almost Full?"

You can't walk into Starbucks without being aware that Paul McCartney's "Memory Almost Full" has been out for awhile, and we figured it was time for Idol Chatter to weigh in on it. The reviews have been mixed. From Entertainment...

Monday July 16, 2007

Categories: Music, Politics, Pop Culture

Best Protest Songs of All Time?

The lead feature going out to America Online’s millions of subscribers this weekend named the Top Twenty Protest Songs of All-Time, from spinner.com’s "The Hit List." I thought it was a decent start, but the list lacked some that are...

Thursday July 12, 2007

Categories: Music

Depressing Summer Songs

Every summer has its song--the one you blast through your car's open windows and sing along to as the sun beats down on your face, your sweaty legs sticking to leather upholstery, and your hair blowing in the breeze. I...

Tuesday July 10, 2007

On "Live Earth," Ratings, and Evangelicals

"Live Earth: Ratings Blockbuster" it was not, but "Live Earth: Concerts for a Climate in Crisis" still drew a record web-audience and drew decent enough television ratings to raise some bucks and hopefully generate increased awareness for the cause....

Thursday July 5, 2007

Hymns Done Right: Old-School Style

Singer Mary Donnelly Haskell has performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the pre-inaugural gala for President George W. Bush, and aboard the presidential yacht, Sequoia. The president certainly likes her music. And if you’re a fan of hymns...

Monday July 2, 2007

dc Talk: Rap? Rock? Pop? Right? Left? Good.

The "Jesus Freaks" have grown up, as has their audience, a dynamic captured nicely in the new release entitled "dcTalk: Greatest Hits." Since Christian songs often linger in terms of airplay, it actually takes a compilation CD such as this...

Thursday June 28, 2007

Categories: Music

Thank God for Rock n' Roll

Yesterday was a bad day. A no-good, low-down, rotten, miserable scum of a day. I won't offer details because they are a combination of melodrama and mundane, and you've all been there. I wanted to bang my head against a...

Monday June 25, 2007

Categories: Music

Check Out Sinead’s New “Theology”

Perhaps no singer brings more spiritual baggage to a CD entitled “Theology” than controversial Irish songstress Sinead O’Connor. The singer, who tore up a picture of the Pope on "Saturday Night Live" years ago and claimed once to be ordained...

Wednesday June 20, 2007

Categories: Music

Artists Rally for Darfur with New Album

While many artists are out there stumping for their own music, it is such a delight to find albums that promote something more important than the artists themselves--a good cause. "Instant Karma", a new two-CD set, is doing just that...

Tuesday June 12, 2007

Categories: Music

Artists Rally to Save Darfur on New Album

While many artists are out there stumping for their own music, it is such a delight to find albums that promote something more important than the artists themselves--a good cause. "Instant Karma", a new two-CD set, is doing just that...

Friday June 1, 2007

Categories: Music

40 Years Ago Today: I'm Still a Pepper

Nearly 50 years after they met, and despite thousands of articles, books, radio interviews, film documentaries and tribute albums, we're still finding out how little we know about The Beatles, as a band and a phenomenon. Even Paul McCartney is...

Tuesday May 22, 2007

Categories: Music

Master PG: A Rap Label with Non-Offensive Lyrics

TMZ.com and other media outlets are reporting that rapper and entrepreneur Master P is starting a record label with his son Romeo (nee L'il Romeo) "for hip hop artists with street music without offensive lyrics."Take A Stand Records is a...

Friday April 13, 2007

Categories: Music

After Imus: Rap Deserves a Slap in the Face

We've all waxed poetic about Imus, his apology and his punishment, but now it's time to get down to business.This isn't about the shocking nature of Imus's comment--whether it is racist or sexist--it is about morality. During one of his...

Wednesday March 21, 2007

Categories: Celebrities, Music

The Man in Black Comes Back

There are two kinds of people in this world: Old Testament prophets and New Testament apostles. Johnny Cash, particularly the Man in Black of recent memory, was strictly OT. His lined crag of a face projected righteous lament, matching a...

Tuesday March 20, 2007

Categories: Music

Play it Again Sam(aritan)

When it comes to music, ethnic is in. From mainstream pop artists like Christina Aguilera, Shakira, and J.Lo singing in their native languages, to Madonna sampling a Hebrew song on her "Confessions on a Dancefloor" album, using foreign languages in...

Monday March 12, 2007

Categories: Music

Give (Music About) War a Chance

Every year the Eurovision song contest pits countries against each other in an international battle of the bands, which CNN describes as "a 50-year-old pan-European institution renowned less for serious music than for unbridled kitsch and terrible costumes but which...

Wednesday March 7, 2007

Categories: Music

Patty Griffin Shines In 'Children Running Through'

I've been hearing rave reviews about singer/songwriter Patty Griffin’s latest release, "Children Running Through" ever since it dropped into stores last month. So I was thrilled to have a chance this week to sit down at last and soak...

Wednesday February 28, 2007

Categories: Christian music, Music

Putting the "Cross" in Crossover

Relient K is a Christian band. Like Switchfoot, they have managed a tricky crossover from the Christian market into the mainstream. But according to a Monsters and Critics interview, their lead vocalist/songwriter Matt Thiessen doesn't enjoy the segregation. "We view...

Monday February 12, 2007

Categories: Music, Television

Grammy's Big Winner: Freedom of Speech

Last night's Grammy's weren't about outrageous rocker antics (although I did hear one of the Red Hot Chili Peppers curse during a pre-show on another station), or about big rapper feuds. Instead, the main themes of the night were faith...

Monday February 12, 2007

Categories: Music

"American Idol" Second Only to God: Carrie Underwood Wins Best New Artist

Mary J. Blige wasn't the only artist giving props to Jesus last night at the Grammy Awards. The 2006 American Idol winner Carrie Underwood collected two awards--the first, off-screen for Best Female Country Vocal Performance--and the second in front of...

Monday February 12, 2007

Categories: Music, Television

Ready--and Not So Ready--To Make Nice

It was a night for unity and positivity at the Grammys--except for one glaring omission!“The Police” got back together. African-American-Old-Guy Stevie Wonder won with Older-White-Guy Tony Bennett. Justin Timberlake’s “What Goes Around” featured a white guy singing with a largely...

Monday February 12, 2007

Categories: Music

Her Song Re-Maines the Same

Redemption appeared to be the theme of the night at the Grammys, from the Dixie Chicks' triumphs to Mary J. Blige's gracious acceptance speech to Carrie Underwood's win for the spiritual surrender anthem, "Jesus Take the Wheel."Not everyone handled their...

Friday December 29, 2006

Categories: Books, Music

My Favorite (Most Overlooked) Music and Books of 2006

While I am still on a movie-watching spree so I can finish my list of Top Ten Films of 2006, I thought I would share with Idol Chatter readers the books and music that are some of the best of...

Tuesday December 26, 2006

Categories: Music

A Twisted Sister Christmas

Christmas may be behind us, but it's never too late to enjoy Twisted Sister's take on Christmas classics. Here's an animated video of their "Come All Ye Faithful": For more celebrity Christmas carol fun, click here....

Wednesday December 20, 2006

Categories: Christian music, Music

Caroling with the Stars

The holiday season means it's busy time here at Beliefnet, and there are a couple of new features that we think Idol Chatter readers will love. The first is Caroling with the Stars--music from some of the year's best celebrity...

Tuesday November 28, 2006

Categories: Music

Yusuf Islam: Beyond Pop Music

Twenty-eight years was a long time to wait for a new album from Yusuf Islam. Back in the 1970s, the artist (then known to the world as Cat Stevens) won over audiences with pop hits like "Wild, Wild, World," "Peace...

Monday November 6, 2006

Categories: Music

When Is a Jesus Band Not a Jesus Band?

The question used to be, can a Jesus band ever not sing about Jesus? These days, the question, asked by The Denver Post's Ricardo Baca, has become: Can a band sing about Jesus without being called a Jesus band?Baca sympathizes...

Wednesday November 1, 2006

Categories: Music

'Jewface' and the Search for Jewish Connection

People who find Borat or Jewtopia offensive are also likely to rail against the new release from Reboot Stereophonic Records for its title alone. "Jewface," like other neo-cultural Jewish efforts, is named to provoke even before anyone actually listens to...

Wednesday October 4, 2006

Categories: Music

You've Got a Friend in Anusara

Anyone who has tried Anusara yoga has most likely experienced the "what-the-heck-is-going-on moment"--a state of confusion and panic, which occurs when the instructor and students sing an unpronounceable Sanskrit chant in the beginning (and end) of class. (Anusara yogis refer...

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