Movie About John Lennon's Childhood Being Developed

A new film is in the works about the late John Lennon. The BBC Online says "Nowhere Boy" will focus on the former Beatle's childhood. The project is based on the book "Imagine This: Growing Up With My Brother John Lennon," written by the former Beatle's half-sister Julia Baird. Screenwriter Matt Greenhalgh is developing the Lennon film. His credits include the biopic "Control," about the late Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis. Greenhalgh says Baird's book took him into, quote, "a world that illuminated so much about this legendary genius," adding that he, quote, "could see the drama and film immediately -- the women in his life, the men who weren't, the birth of rock and roll, all imposing on a brilliantly complicated adolescent mind." He recently received a grant of 71-thousand-dollars from the UK Film Council to help fund the movie, but no timeline, such as a production schedule or projected release date, has been revealed.

 

Steely Dan's Concert Changes

Steely Dan's back on the road, and the group's concerts might include tunes they haven't performed in a while. Bassist Walter Becker notes he's stepping up to the mic more these days, and tells the "Arizona Republic" this enables the band to expand their set lists. He says they have tunes frontman Donald Fagen either didn't sing originally or that he's lost interest in singing, but they'd still like to perform the material. Becker explains with the addition of his vocals, Steely Dan can, quote, "revisit songs like 'Daddy Don't Live in That New York City No More' or 'Monkey in Your Soul' live." But Becker isn't dominating the shows. While he recently released his second solo album, "Circus Money," he's refusing to include any of those songs in Steely Dan concerts. He explains that Steely Dan performs in venues in which it's, quote, "hard for people to experience completely new material in a satisfying way," and he also knows the fans are there to hear their favorite tracks, not unfamiliar songs. Steely Dan will be performing in Los Angeles tonight.

Pete Townshend On Who Covers

The Who's Pete Townshend says he enjoys hearing other bands' covers of his group's material. But the legendary classic rocker, who wrote the majority of The Who's songs, admits that he can't really compare remakes of Who tunes to the originals. The guitarist tells "Rolling Stone" he doesn't ever "hear" the songs he plays because he's, quote, "inside it, knocking it out." Townshend got the chance to listen to others play Who songs before knocking a few out himself at the recent VH1 Rock Honors concert salute to The Who. The special made its broadcast debut last week. Several encore presentations are coming over the next week, including airings on VH1 Classic and MHD on Friday.

Plant-Krauss CD Among Mercury Prize Nominees

Robert Plant could receive even more praise for his collaboration with bluegrass singer Alison Krauss. Their CD "Raising Sand" is among the nominees for the UK's annual Mercury Music Prize. The award, established by the British Phonographic Industry and the British Association of Record Dealers, recognizes their pick of the best album to come from a British or Irish artist. Also in the running is Radiohead's "In Rainbows," which is among the early favorites to take the prize. CDs from The Last Shadow Puppets, Elbow, and Burial are other contenders, while the shortlist of 12 also includes discs from Adele, British Sea Power, Estelle, Laura Marling, Neon Neon, Portico Quartet, and Rachel Unthank And The Winterset. Mercury Prize nominees were announced in London yesterday. The winner will be revealed on September 9th.

Don McLean Discusses Song Construction

Don McLean says quality songs need to be assembled, which can take time. The veteran singer-songwriter tells Canada's Sun Media he equates songs to films or buildings, because they need to be put together with care in order work. Using his classic hit "American Pie" as an example, McLean explains that he started with the line "the day the music died," which he says, quote, "stayed in my mind for months," and he "just let ideas flow out of me." He continues that he, quote, "imagined this whole rock dream several months later." McLean ended up with a song that was nearly ten-minutes long, but he notes it became a hit despite its length because, quote, "it was well made." In addition to his own hits McLean has had success writing for others. A wide range of artists, including Madonna, Guns N' Roses, Garth Brooks, The Fugees, and Perry Como, have covered his tunes. This week McLean will be treating fans overseas to his hit compositions in concert. He's slated to perform in Belgium on Friday and at the UK's Trowbridge Festival on Sunday.

Today's Birthdays

The Rascals drummer Dino Danelli is 64.
David Essex is 61.
Bachman-Turner Overdrive guitarist Blair Thornton is 58.
Roxy Music sax and synthesizer player Andy Mackay is 62.

Today In History

In 1963
Neil Young had his first recording session, at a studio in Winnepeg, Canada.

In 1964
The Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart. The band also took part in the Night of a Hundred Stars event at the London Palladium.

In 1965
The Kinks performed "You Really Got Me" on the TV show "Where the Action Is."

The Beatles released the single "Help" backed with "I'm Down" in the UK.

In 1966
The Cavern Club in Liverpool, England was officially reopened.

Crispian St. Peters' "The Pied Piper" peaked at number four on the pop singles chart.

Elvis Presley's "Love Letters" peaked at number 19 on the pop singles chart.

The Lovin' Spoonful's "Summer in the City" and Bobby Hebb's "Sunny" broke into the Top 40.

Napoleon the 14th released the novelty song "They're Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Ha!"

In 1968
Vanilla Fudge's self-titled album was certified Gold.

In 1969
The Rolling Stones' "Honky Tonk Woman" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.

Three Dog Night's single "One" and Blood, Sweat, and Tears' single "Spinning Wheel" were certified Gold.

In 1971
The Rolling Stones and the late Brian Jones' father sued former manager Allen Klein for 29-million-dollars, saying he mismanaged the band's money.

In 1976
New releases included Paul McCartney and Wings' single "Let 'Em In."

In 1977
Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham and manager Peter Grant were arrested on battery charges before the group's concert in Oakland, California. The two were accused of beating up members of promoter Bill Graham's staff.

Judas Priest kicked off its first U.S. tour, opening for Led Zeppelin.

Barry Manilow's "Looks Like We Made It" hit number one on the pop singles chart.

Jimmy Buffett's "Margaritaville" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.

Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop" broke into the Top 40.

Carly Simon released the single "Nobody Does It Better."

In 1980
Grateful Dead keyboardist Keith Godchaux died from injuries in a car accident. He was 32.

In 1982
Judas Priest's album "British Steel" was certified Gold.

In 1985
Dire Straits' album "Brothers In Arms" was certified Gold.

In 1987
The surviving Beatles sued EMI-Capitol Records for 40-million-dollars, accusing the label of cheating the group on CD royalties. The band was also requesting the label return master tapes.

In 1989
Ringo Starr kicked off his first All-Starr Band tour. Joe Walsh, Billy Preston, Dr. John, The Band's Rick Danko and Levon Helm, and E Street Band members Nils Lofgren and Clarence Clemmons were among the musicians who joined him for the trek.

In 1990
Production began on the movie "Falling From Grace," which marked John Mellencamp's acting and directing debut.

In 1991
The U.S. Post Office announced plans to issue a stamp honoring Elvis Presley.

In 1992
Bruce Springsteen began a solo world tour with a show in New Jersey.

Chicago received induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In 1998
Aerosmith had to postpone the first 13 dates of its upcoming because drummer Joey Kramer had been injured in a fire a week earlier.

In 2001
George Harrison denied reports that he was close to death as he continued his battle against cancer.

In 2002
Actor Leo McKern died following a lengthy illness. He was 82. He had appeared in The Beatles' second film, "Help!"

In 2003
Ozzy Osbourne's longtime tour manager Bobby Thomson died in his sleep as Ozzfest was prepping for its stop in Detroit. He had been battling throat cancer.

In 2005
The New York Dolls reunion continued in the wake of bassist Arthur "Killer" Kane's death, as the band played the second of two concerts in Amagansett, New York.

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Rolling Stones Guitarist Ron Wood Enters Rehab

{The Rolling Stones' Ron Wood is headed to rehab to address his drinking. The classic rocker's spokeswoman says he's, quote, "seeking help," adding that his family and friends "look forward to his recovery." Wood, who has a history of alcohol abuse, has been making headlines in recent days with an alleged extended drinking binge of nearly two weeks. During that time the guitarist was said to have been locked away at his home in Ireland with a 19-year-old Russian waitress, and conflicting stories surfaced about the nature and impact of their relationship. Stories cropped up saying Wood's bender was jeopardizing his 23-year marriage. Some accounts claimed Wood had abandoned his wife, Jo, and others said Jo was leaving Wood. According to the UK's "The Sun," Jo denied that Wood had left her for the younger woman, while Britain's "Daily Mail" cited an unidentified family friend as saying Jo wouldn't discuss her marriage until Wood sobered up.

Wood's behavior had also apparently sparked the concern of his band mates. While several members of the Rolling Stones have dealt with substance abuse issues over the decades, frontman Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards had reportedly been urging Wood to return home and get help.

 

"VH1 Rock Honors: The Who" Debuts Tonight

"VH1 Rock Honors: The Who" is set for its TV premiere. For the first time just one band -- The Who -- is receiving the tribute with the event, which recognizes artists who blazed trails in hard rock and the music they created. The show, which was taped in Los Angeles over the weekend includes performances from Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, Incubus, The Flaming Lips, and Tenacious D, while actors Rainn Wilson, Sean Penn, Adam Sandler, Mila Kunis, and David Duchovny appear as presenters for the ceremony. In addition, Sting, Coldplay, Billy Idol, Velvet Revolver guitarist Slash, and Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher are among those who provide pre-taped testimonials discussing the band's influence on them. The Who also take the stage, turning in renditions of "Baba O'Riley," "Who Are You," "Won't Get Fooled Again," "My Generation," and other classics to provide the night's grand finale. VH1 Rock Honors: The Who" will have its broadcast debut on VH1, VH1 Classic, and MHD tonight.

 

Rush Makes First U.S. TV Appearance In 33 Years

It's been 33 years, but Rush has finally returned to U.S. TV. The classic rock trio was a guest on Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" last night, marking the Canadian group's first TV appearance on this side of the border since 1975. In addition to performing the song "Tom Sawyer," band members sat down for an interview with host Stephen Colbert. When asked if the group was, quote, "tired of being so awesome," frontman Geddy Lee said they've, quote, "gotten used to it;" and drummer Neil Peart revealed that his favorite color is red. They also accepted some ribbing about the length of their tunes. Peart was also teased about his massive drum kit with the question, quote, "Is there any chance you have a drum dependency?" Fans who didn't catch the show last night will have opportunities to see Comedy Central's rebroadcast of the episode today.

First Burned Hendrix Guitar To Be Sold At Auction

The first guitar Jimi Hendrix set ablaze on stage will soon be up for grabs. The late rock icon's one-time press officer Tony Garland has kept track of the Fender Stratocaster Hendrix played -- and burned -- for the past 41 years. The landmark event took place on March 31st, 1967 at the Finsbury Astoria in London, on the opening night of The Walker Brothers tour. The Jimi Hendrix Experience was a warm-up act for the trek, and Hendrix and his manager Chas Chandler thought the new band should do something memorable for the tour's launch. Garland recalls that as the band was getting ready for the gig there was talk of Hendrix setting fire to his guitar during the show, and he was sent to get the lighter fluid. While the stunt wasn't flawless -- Hendrix ended up in the hospital with burns on his hands -- it made the guitarist an instant legend. The torched instrument has been stored in many places over the years, including in the home of the late Jimi Hendrix Experience bassist Noel Redding, and is now headed to auction. The Fame Bureau is handling the sale, which will take place in London on September 4th.

Today's Birthdays

Black Sabbath bassist Terry "Geezer" Butler is 59.

The Stooges guitarist Ron Asheton is 60.
Tommy James and the Shondells' bassist Mike Vale is 59.
Former Doobie Brothers drummer Chet McCracken is 56.
The Spencer Davis Group's Spencer Davis is 66.



Today In History

In 1965
ABC-TV broadcast clips from The Beatles movie "Help."

Them's "Here Comes The Night" peaked at number 24 on the pop singles chart.

James Brown's "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag" broke into both the pop and R&B charts.


In 1967
The Jimi Hendrix Experience was the opening act at a Monkees concert at the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium in New York.

The Beatles released the single "All You Need Is Love" backed with "Baby, You're A Rich Man."

In 1968
The Beatles' animated film "Yellow Submarine" premiered at the London Pavilion. Band members John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison attend the screening. It opened in the U.S. several months later and became a big hit. The film is based on The Beatles song and characters.

In 1971
Three Dog Night's "Liar" and Marvin Gaye's "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" broke into the Top 40.

In 1972
A bomb placed under a ramp at the Montreal Forum blew out the cones of 30 speakers stored inside one of the Rolling Stones' equipment trucks. Montreal radio stations received at least 50 calls from would-be bombers. It was never determined who planted the dynamite and the show went on as planned.

In 1974
John Lennon was ordered to leave the U.S. in 60 days in connection with his ongoing legal battle with immigration officials.

The Moody Blues opened their own studio in London. It was the first studio designed for quadriphonic recording.

While a solo artist, Joe Walsh opened for the Eagles in a show at the Mississippi River Festival in Edwardsville, Illinois.

In 1975
Ringo Starr and Maureen Cox divorced in a London court.

Bob Marley and the Wailers performed the first of two night at The Lyceum in London. The performances were recorded and used for a live album, including the hit "No Woman No Cry."

In 1976
Paul McCartney & Wings' "Let 'Em In" broke into the Top 40.

Electric Light Orchestra's "OLE ELO" broke into the albums chart.

Heart released the single "Magic Man."

In 1979
Gary Moore left Thin Lizzy. He was replaced by Midge Ure.

In 1982
Paul McCartney's "Take It Away" broke into the Top 40.

The Rolling Stones' "Going To A Go-Go" peaked at number 25 on the pop singles chart.

In 1987
In New York, Keith Richards signed a solo deal with Virgin Records.

In 1989
Paul McCartney released "This One"

In 1993
The Who's Pete Townshend opened his solo tour with a show in Toronto.

In 1994
Kiss' Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons made a surprise appearance at a Kiss convention in Pontiac, Michigan, and found some Kiss costumes that had been stolen from the band more than a decade earlier.

In 1996
Former Animals bassist and Jimi Hendrix Experience manager Chas Chandler died in a British hospital. He had been undergoing tests relating to an aortic aneurysm. He was 57.

In 2000
Mike and the Mechanics lead singer Paul Young died of heart failure. He was 53.

In 2002
Journey made its first ever club appearance, at the Quest Club in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to road test some new material.

In 2003
The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Ozzy Osbourne, Joni Mitchell, and Paul McCartney were all involved in shows that had been nominated for Emmy Awards.

In 2004
A memorial service was held for the late New York Dolls bassist Arthur "Killer" Kane at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Westwood, California. He had died four days earlier of leukemia.

In 2006
Steely Dan posted an open letter on their website to Luke Wilson, asking him to get his brother Owen to come to the duo's concert in Irvine, California two days later and apologize on stage for the movie "You, Me, and Dupree." Walter Becker and Donald Fagen explained that they found strong similarities between the title character in the film and their Grammy-winning track "Cousin Dupree," and they were upset with Owen's involvement in the project.

In 2007
Charlie Daniels took part in the "Home for a Hero" benefit concert, a fundraiser in Nashville to help a disabled Iraq war veteran to return to his hometown and lead an independent life in a specially constructed house that matches his needs and abilities.

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Rolling Stone Ron Wood's Reported Bender Puts Strain On Marriage

 

Rolling Stones guitarist Ron Wood is finally talking with his family. The classic rocker, who has a history of alcohol abuse, has reportedly fallen off the wagon and has been on an extended drinking binge. Britain's "Daily Mail" says Wood met with his son Jessie Monday night, marking the first real contact he's had with anyone in his family in nearly two weeks. During this time the 61-year-old has apparently been locked away at his home in Ireland with a 19-year-old waitress from Kazakhstan, and there are conflicting reports regarding the nature of their companionship.

Wood's wife, Jo, reportedly denied to the UK's "The Sun" that the guitarist was leaving her for the younger woman, calling that story "entirely fictitious." Wood is also an accomplished painter, and Jo said the waitress had become Wood's drinking partner and model. She added that Wood's art dealer was with them. The "New York Daily News" reported that Jo announced over the weekend she was leaving the rocker, but the "Daily Mail" cites an unidentified family friend as saying Jo has, quote, "refused to talk about their marriage" until Wood "comes home and gets himself sober." Ron and Jo have been married for 23 years.

Rush To Make Rare U.S. TV Appearance Tonight

Rush will be hitting the small screen today. The classic rock trio is slated to be a guest on "The Colbert Report," airing on Comedy Central at 11:30 p.m. Eastern. The group is expected to perform the song "Tom Sawyer" on the show. U.S. TV appearances are very rare for the Canadian band. The last time Rush was on the tube on this side of the border was back in 1975, on "Don Kirschner's Rock Concert." Rush has spent the spring and summer on the road, and has five more shows left to the "Snakes & Arrows" tour. Rush's next concert will be in Hershey, Pennsylvania tomorrow night. The group will then visit Washington, DC; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Atlanta, Georgia before bringing the trek to a close in Indianapolis, Indiana on July 24th.

John Mellencamp Announces Farm Aid 2008

Farm Aid is headed to Boston. In announcing the upcoming concert yesterday, John Mellencamp noted, quote, "New England was built on the strength of independent family farmers," and that people, quote, "can honor that independent spirit by joining Farm Aid to grow the movement that is changing the way all of America eats." It's the first time the organization has staged its annual fundraiser in the far Northeastern region of the country. Mellencamp, whose latest CD "Life Death Love and Freedom" hit stores yesterday, will be among the headliners for the show. Fellow Farm Aid Founders Neil Young and Willie Nelson and longtime board member Dave Matthews are also on board, while additional performers will be revealed later. Farm Aid 2008 will also offer local and organic foods grown by family farmers at the concessions. This year's concert, sponsored by Whole Foods Market and Horizon Organic, is set for the Comcast Center in Mansfield, Massachusetts on September 20th.

"One Tin Soldier" Singer Suffers Massive Heart Attack

Singer Jinx Dawson of the group Coven, best known for the 1971 hit "One Tin Soldier," is recovering from a massive heart attack. A post on the vocalist's MySpace page says she was alone last Wednesday morning when she began feeling a burning sensation in her chest and started having trouble speaking. She managed to called 9-1-1, but passed out before an ambulance arrived. Paramedics tried to revive her on the way to the hospital, but Dawson was described as in the, quote, "death spell" by the time she reached the emergency room. The E-R doctor continued resuscitation efforts and was able to restart Dawson's heart. She underwent surgery after doctors determined that one of her arteries was completely blocked. Dawson checked herself out of the hospital late Sunday, but has not revealed where she's continuing her recuperation or how long she'll be laid up. Coven's "One Tin Soldier" was the theme to the movie "Billy Jack." The song also appears on the group's 1972 self-titled second album.

Elton John Marking First Vermont Show With A Sweet Treat

Elton John's been around for nearly 40 years, but the classic rocker is still experiencing career firsts. Next week the "Rocket Man" will make his concert debut in Vermont -- the only U.S. state in which he hasn't ever performed. To mark the occasion, Ben & Jerry's has come up with a special ice cream in Elton's honor. Goodbye Yellow Brickle Road boasts peanut butter cookie dough, butter brickle, and white chocolate chunks mixed in chocolate ice cream. Elton was involved in the flavor's creation, specifically calling for it to include chocolate and peanut butter. The veteran pop star seems to be pleased with the sweet salute, noting, quote, "I can't think of a more fun way to celebrate playing my 50th state." But as it currently stands the ice cream will be available for a very limited time, and in very limited locations. Goodbye Yellow Brickle Road will only be sold at Ben & Jerry's Vermont outlets for a week starting this Friday, and at Elton's show Monday at the Champlain Valley Expo Center. All profits from sales of the special ice cream will go to the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

 

Today In History

In 1955
Fats Domino's "Ain't That A Shame" broke into the Top 40.

In 1959
The Coasters recorded the single "Poison Ivy" at Atlantic Recording Studio in New York.

In 1963
The Beach Boys recorded the songs "In My Room" and "Catch A Wave."

In 1964
The Rolling Stones "It's All Over Now" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.

In 1966
Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker formed Cream.

The Association's "Along Comes Mary" peaked at number seven on the pop singles chart.

The Rolling Stones' single "Mother's Little Helper" broke into the Top 40.

The Lovin' Spoonful released the single "Summer in the City."

In 1969
Janis Joplin was a guest on "The Dick Cavett Show."

The Who released the single "I'm Free."

In 1971
The Hollies recorded the single "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" at the Air Studios in London.

In 1973
Bob Dylan released the album "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid," the soundtrack to the movie starring Kris Kristofferson. Dylan also made a cameo appearance in the film. The album contains the hit "Knocking on Heaven's Door."

In 1976
The duo Loggins and Messina broke up.

In 1980
The documentary "No Nukes," featuring performances from James Taylor and the Doobie Brothers, premiered in New York.

In 1981
Singer-songwriter Harry Chapin was killed in a traffic accident in New York. He was 38.

In 1983
The Kinks' "Come Dancing" peaked at number six on the pop singles chart.

In 1984
Pink Floyd and Eric Clapton launched a joint tour with a show in Stockholm.

The Rolling Stones released the single "Miss You" backed with "Too Tough." The songs were from the band's best of collection "Rewind."

In 1987
The Doors video "The Doors Live at the Hollywood Bowl" was released.

In 1992
Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop" was the featured song as Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton accepted the Democratic nomination for President.

Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts' other group, the Charlie Watts Quintet, walked off the set of "Late Night with David Letterman" because of, quote, "artistic differences" between the band and Letterman's producer.

In 1993
Bob Dylan had to cancel a show in Lyon, France because he was suffering from back pain.

In 1996
Styx drummer John Panozzo died of a gastrointestinal hemorrhage at his home in Chicago. He was 47.

In 2002
The Rolling Stones arrived in Toronto to begin rehearsals for the group's upcoming "Licks" tour.

New album releases included Simon & Garfunkel's "Live from New York City 1967" and Joe Cocker's "Respect Yourself."

In 2003
Santana wrapped up the North American portion of his "Shaman" tour, and through the trek raised two-million-dollars for the fight against AIDS in South Africa.

Ted Nugent launched his Rock & Roll Made in America tour with a show in Richmond, Virginia.

In 2007
Rod Stewart's tour topped Pollstar's list of the highest grossing treks for the first half of the year. He raked in 48-point-one-million-dollars with an average ticket price of 76-dollars-93-cents.

Gibson Guitar announced that the company was making a Custom Les Paul inspired by the late John Lennon.

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Beatles Producer George Martin Reflects On Legendary Band

George Martin says The Beatles are one of those acts that'll never be duplicated and never go away. The legendary producer offered his reflections on the Fab Four at the Television Critics Association conference, noting that the group came at a time when bands were allowed to grow and cultivate their talents -- something that doesn't really happen anymore in the music business. But he adds that the legendary classic rockers comprised a one of a kind band.

Martin is headed to American TV, as the host of the upcoming PBS series "On Record: The Soundtrack of Our Lives." However, the eight-part show won't be airing anytime soon. It's slated to make its debut in the fall of 2010. Last weekend Martin was also honored by the recording industry. He received the Grammy Foundation Leadership Award at an all-star gala in Los Angeles Saturday night. Tom Jones, Jeff Beck, America, Burt Bacharach, and Michael McDonald were among the performers for the event, while Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison -- widows of former Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison -- also took part in the salute.

 

Robert Plant, Alison Krauss Line Up Fall Dates

Robert Plant isn't ready to wrap up his tour with Alison Krauss. The pair have nine new shows booked this fall, including stops at a couple of festivals. They've signed on for the Austin City Limits Music Festival in September and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass event in San Francisco in October. Both Plant and Krauss -- as well as producer T Bone Burnett, who's also touring with the duo as their guitarist -- have said they're enjoying working together and are in no hurry to bring it to an end. Plant recently told the "Arizona Republic" that he finds the collaboration vocally challenging, noting this is the first ensemble he's been involved with in which he's not the only singer. He added that he has a passion for their music, calling the sounds of the American South "part of the DNA of my life." Plant and Krauss' new dates begin in Kansas City, Missouri on September 23rd, but they still have a few more shows left on their summer schedule. They'll be performing in Cleveland, Ohio tonight.

Robert Plant and Alison Krauss Tour Dates

July 15 - Cleveland, Ohio, at the Time Warner Cable Amphitheater at Tower City
July 18 - Lexington, Kentucky, at the Rupp Arena
July 19 - Nashville, Tennessee, at the Sommet Center
September 23 - Kansas City, Missouri, at the Starlight Theater
September 24 - St. Louis, Missouri, at the Fox Theater
September 26 - Houston, Texas, at the C.W. Mitchell Pavilion
September 27 - Austin, Texas, at Zilker Park, at the Austin City Limits Festival
September 30 - Portland, Oregon, at the Theater of the Clouds
October 1 - Seattle, Washington, at the WaMu Theater at the Qwest Field Event Center
October 3 - San Francisco, California, at Speedway Meadow at Golden Gate Park, at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
October 4 - Kelseyville, California, at the Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa Showroom
October 5 - Saratoga, California, at The Mountain Winery

 

Early Moody Blues Albums Getting Reissued

The Moody Blues' Graeme Edge says that for the group, the music "is everything." The drummer notes that he and his band mates, quote, "always put the music before anything else," which is what he credits for the band's longevity. Fans are now getting the chance to relive the group's early sounds, as the first seven Moody Blues albums are being reissued. The re-releases contain the original tracks along with a host of bonus material, such as alternate takes, outtakes, radio sessions, and live BBC recordings. The albums getting new life include "Days of Future Passed," which features the hit "Nights in White Satin;" "In Search of the Lost Chord," with the hit "Ride My See-Saw;" "On The Threshold of a Dream;" "To Our Children's Children's Children;" "A Question of Balance," with the top ten single "Balance;" "Every Good Boy Deserves Favour;" and "Seventh Sojourn," with the Moody's biggest hit, "I'm Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band)." The Moody Blues reissues will arrive in stores today.

 

Richie Havens Plans Extensive Tour In Support Of New Album

Richie Havens has a lot of road work planned in support of his next album. His 30th career effort, "Nobody Left to Crown," is slated to hit stores on July 29th, and Pollstar.com says the veteran folk-rocker has more than 40 dates booked over the next ten months to back the project. This summer the singer will be mixing his own concerts with festival appearances, including stops at the Newport Folk Festival; Empire, Michigan's Dunegrass and Blues Festival; and Lancaster, Massachusetts' Nashua River Valley Folk Festival; as well as the UK's Rhythm Festival. Havens' itinerary also boasts two-night stands in Uncasville, Connecticut and Brownfield, Maine, as well as three dates across Alaska. He launched his trek at Britain's GuilFest earlier this month, and last weekend he performed at the Canadian Blues Fest International in both Windsor and London, Ontario. Havens will be heading back to Europe for a show in France on Thursday.

 

Today's Birthdays

Linda Ronstadt is 62.
Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer Artimus Pyle is 60.
.38 Special guitarist Jeff Carlisi is 56.
Guitarist Joe Satriani is 52.

Moby Grape guitarist Peter Lewis is 63.
The 13th Floor Elevators' Roky Erickson is 61.
Documentary film maker D.A. Pennebaker is 83. His credits include the Bob Dylan film "Don't Look Back" as well as "Monterey Pop" and "Standing in the Shadow of Motown."

 

Today In History

In 1957
Jerry Lee Lewis' "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" broke into the Top 40.

In 1958
John Lennon's mother, Julia, was struck by a car and killed in Liverpool, England.

In 1963
Filming began on the Elvis Presley movie "Viva Las Vegas."

Paul McCartney was arrested for speeding and fined nearly 40-dollars.

In 1967
Van Morrison released the single "Brown Eyed Girl."

In 1968
Creedence Clearwater Revival released their self-titled album.

In 1970
Creedence Clearwater Revival released the album "Cosmo's Factory."

In 1971
Yoko Ono appeared at a London department store to sign copies of her book "Grapefruit." John Lennon was at her side for the event.

In 1973
Ray Davies announced that he was leaving the Kinks. He returned to the group within a week.

Grand Funk Railroad released the album "We're An American Band."

In 1978
The Rolling Stones' album "Some Girls" hit number one on the album chart.

Eric Clapton's "Wonderful Tonight" peaked at number 16 on the pop singles chart.

More than 200 thousand fans gathered at Britain's Blackbush Airport to say goodbye to Bob Dylan as he left the country after finishing his UK tour.

In 1984
The John Lennon single "I'm Stepping Out" was released.

In 1985
Mick Jagger shot a video for the song "Hard Woman."

In 1989
Pink Floyd performed a free concert in Venice, Italy. Residents complained about the noise, littering, and drug use at the show.

In 1994
Genesis singer-drummer Phil Collins announced that he was filing for divorce from his wife, Jill.

In 1998
Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer suffered second-degree burns on his hands, arms, and legs at a gas station fire in a suburb of Boston. Because of his injuries, the band had to postpone the first 13 dates of its North American tour.

In 1999
Bruce Springsteen kicked off a reunion tour with the E Street Band with a show at the Meadowlands in New Jersey.

Bob Weir married his girlfriend in a ceremony at their home in Mill Valley, California.

In 2002
Paul McCartney's "Driving U.S.A." tour was the top grossing tour of the first half of the year. Tours from Elton John and Billy Joel; Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young; Jimmy Buffett; and Barry Manilow also landed in the top ten of the list of the highest grossing tours.

In 2004
The TV special "A&E In Concert: Paul McCartney in Red Square" was the top music nominee for the Emmy Awards, earning five bids including Outstanding Variety, Music, or Comedy Special.

In 2005
Queen + Paul Rodgers performed a concert in London's Hyde Park. The show had been originally scheduled for a week earlier, but was cancelled in the wake of the terrorist attack on the London transit system. In addition, the band offered free tickets to emergency services workers as a way of expressing appreciation to the efforts of first responders.

Ozzfest, featuring Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden as co-main stage headliners, began with a show in Boston.

In 2007
Brian May announced that he'd finished writing his doctoral thesis in astronomy, more than 30 years after he started his academic research.

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Judge Weighing Hendrix Electric Vodka Lawsuit

Relatives of the late Jimi Hendrix will soon learn if they'll be facing off in a trial. The rock icon's stepsister Janie Hendrix is suing his brother Leon Hendrix and business partner Craig Dieffenbach for trademark infringement over their company's Hendrix Electric Vodka. The "Seattle Times" reports that oral arguments were presented last Friday before a district court judge, who says he'll make a, quote, "prompt" decision on whether the case will go to trial. Janie Hendrix claims the image Electric Hendrix LLC is using to market its product too closely resembles the likenesses of the guitar great that she has trademarked. She's also said she thinks using the late rocker to promote booze is offensive, given the role alcohol played in his death. But Dieffenbach has countered, calling the name an appropriate and fitting tribute to the classic rocker, and adds that they aren't violating any trademarks since courts have ruled that Janie only owns the rights to Hendrix's music.

James Brown Estate Auction In Question

The James Brown memorabilia auction might not be held this Thursday as planned. "The New York Times" says a request to stop the sale, filed in a South Carolina court last week by former estate trustees Buddy Dallas and Alfred Bradley, is under consideration. Dallas and Bradley don't want the sale to take place, and are accusing current trustees Adele J. Pope and Robert L. Buchanan of estate mismanagement. Pope and Buchanan were appointed trustees of the Brown estate last fall by a South Carolina judge, who picked them to replace Dallas and Bradley after determining they were mismanaging the estate. The judge now wants to hear from Pope and Buchanan, who need to defend their positions as trustees and state why the auction should be allowed. They have until noon today to present their explanations.

A rep from Christie's, which is handling the sale, is expressing confidence that the auction will still happen. Nearly 350 James Brown items are slated to go up for bid, ranging from personal and household goods to musical equipment and awards. The sale could bring in as much as two-million-dollars.

 

"Sgt. Pepper" Drum, Lennon Lyrics Top Auction Draws

The iconic "Sgt. Pepper" drum skin, described as "the world's most famous drum skin," is perhaps also the most expensive. The original hand-painted the bass drum head used in the cover photo for The Beatles 1967 album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" sold last Thursday at Christie's Rock and Pop Memorabilia auction for a staggering one-million-67-thousand-346-dollars. While it was expected to be the sale's top draw, it fetched significantly more than its 200-to-300-thousand-dollar estimate. The other big ticket item also delivered. A card on which John Lennon wrote out the words to "Give Peace A Chance," made as a group lyric sheet for the recording of the song during his and Yoko Ono's famed 1969 bed-in, also went for more than its estimate. Bidding on the 22-by-14-inch card was expected to go as high as 600-thousand-dollars, but it actually sold for nearly 831-thousand. Christie's Rock and Pop Memorabilia auction also featured items from a variety of other stars, but nearly half of the 264 lots were Beatles-related. A full list of auction results is available online at Christies.com.

 

VH1's Who Salute Brings In Big Bucks For Charity

A number of charities are benefiting from The Who's "VH1 Rock Honors" salute. The tribute show brought in more than one-million-dollars, which will be split among a number of organizations including Who guitarist Pete Townshend's Double O Charity; Britain's Teenage Cancer Trust, for which Who singer Roger Daltrey is a founding patron; and The VH1 Save The Music Foundation. Saturday's "VH1 Rock Honors: The Who" taping featured performances from Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, Incubus, The Flaming Lips, and Tenacious D, while numerous other stars offered praise for the legendary group in prerecorded packages. The Who also took the stage, closing the show with a selection of classics to demonstrate just how worthy they are of the "Rock Honors" recognition. "VH1 Rock Honors: The Who" will have its broadcast debut on
VH1, VH1 Classic and MHD on Thursday. A preview of the show will be posted online at RockVH1.com tomorrow.

 

Today's Birthdays

The Fireballs guitarist Danny Trammell is 68.

 

Today In History

In 1967
The Who began a North American tour as the opening act for Herman's Hermits.

In 1969
Bob Dylan made a surprise appearance at the Mississippi River Rock Festival, sitting in the The Band for three songs.

In 1973
Former Byrds guitarist Clarence White was killed in Palmdale, California, when a drunk driver hit him as he was loading equipment into a van. He was 29.

In 1980
Former Beatles and Rolling Stones manager Allen Klein began serving a two-month prison sentence for cheating on his income tax return.

In 1982
The movie "Pink Floyd's The Wall" had its premiere in London.

In 1984
Mike Reno and Ann Wilson's "Almost Paradise (Love Theme from 'Footloose')" peaked at number seven on the pop singles chart.

In 1986
Paul McCartney released the album "Press."

In 1987
Steve Miller received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In 1988
A radio station in Nashville offered one-million-dollars to anyone who could present a living Elvis Presley.

In 1989
Alice Cooper released the single "Poison." It proved to be his most successful hit since 1972's "School's Out."

In 2000
Bo Diddley and Nike came to a settlement over an unauthorized T-shirt campaign by the shoe company. While Diddley had been a part of Nike's "Bo Knows" ad campaign, he hadn't agreed to having his image and the slogan stamped on shirts.

Cheap Trick performed at the 23rd annual Hennepin Avenue Block Party in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

In 2004
Graham Nash discussed his photography and his new book, "Eye to Eye," at an event at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

In 2007
Aerosmith's "Don't Want To Miss A Thing" topped UK's "Magic TV" list of "The Nations Favourite Wedding Songs."

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