Black Crowes members, others to celebrate R.E.M. at two Georgia benefit shows

Black Crowes members, others to celebrate R.E.M. at two Georgia benefit shows
Black Crowes members, others to celebrate R.E.M. at two Georgia benefit shows
I.R.S./UMe

A two-night benefit concert series celebrating the 40th anniversary of R.E.M.‘s 1982 debut EP, Chronic Town, will take place in Athens and Atlanta, Georgia, this December.

The lineup for both shows includes Black Crowes co-founders Rich and Chris Robinson, Hootie and the Blowfish‘s Darius Rucker, Patti Smith guitarist Lenny Kaye, longtime Black Crowes bassist Sven Pipien, The Dream Syndicate‘s Steve Wynn and ex-Screaming Trees drummer Barrett Martin.

Rich, Barrett and Sven will serve as the concerts’ house band.

Saturday Night Live alum/musician Fred Armisen, actor John Cameron Mitchell, Drivin N Cryin and Let’s Active‘s Mitch Easter, who produced Chronic Town, are also on the bill. David Cross will host the events.

In addition, The Indigo Girls will be playing at the Athens show.

The concerts will feature performances of Chronic Town‘s five songs, as well as other fan favorites.

The Athens concert will be held December 14 at the 40 Watt Club. Tickets go on sale to the general public Tuesday, October 11, at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets for the Atlanta show, which will take place at the Coca-Cola Roxy theater on December 15, go on sale to the general public Friday, October 7, at 10 a.m. ET, while a fan presale will begin October 6 at 10 a.m. ET.

“Growing up in Atlanta in the 1980s, R.E.M. was the preeminent band of that era,” says Rich. “Their music was a huge influence not only on the Atlanta music scene but also on my brother and me. I’m so happy to be able to put together this celebration for a band that meant so much to us and music, and Chronic Town is what started it all.”

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Music notes: Kelly Clarkson, The Weeknd, Pink, Gwen Stefani and Sara Bareilles

Music notes: Kelly Clarkson, The Weeknd, Pink, Gwen Stefani and Sara Bareilles
Music notes: Kelly Clarkson, The Weeknd, Pink, Gwen Stefani and Sara Bareilles

Kelly Clarkson saluted Jennifer Lopez on her daytime talk show by choosing to belt out “Waiting for Tonight” during her ending segment, Kellyoke. The singer opted for a super stripped-down version, accompanied by just an acoustic guitar to open the passionate and pining performance before the rest of her band slowly joined.

If you want to channel The Weeknd‘s After Hours era for Halloween — you’re in luck. The hitmaker is out with the official costume, complete with shades, a red jacket and pair of black leather gloves. The Weeknd notes “Halloween is just around the corner” and that people should order the costume on his official website before October 10 so it’ll arrive by Halloween.

Pink is showing off the serious pipes her 11-year-old daughter, Willow, has. The singer shared a video of her daughter playing on a skateboard — and she is wearing a helmet and knee pads — while singing at the top of her lungs. Fans were unable to identify the song and believe this is teasing a new collab between the two, just like their pandemic hit “Cover Me In Sunshine.”

Blake Shelton had the sweetest shout-out for wife Gwen Stefani on her 53rd birthday. Sharing a photo of them walking hand in hand, he wrote, “Happy birthday to my beautiful wife @gwenstefani!!! I love you so freakin much!!!!” Gwen shared the tribute to her Instagram Story and included three red heart emojis. She revealed he also bought her a massive flower bouquet.

Sara Bareilles will support victims of domestic violence at a charity concert set for Thursday, October 6, at the Capitol Theater in Port Chester, New York. Proceeds benefit the Pace Women’s Justice Center.  The show starts at 8 p.m. ET. 

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Julian Lennon to serve as ambassador for 2022 World College Radio Day

Julian Lennon to serve as ambassador for 2022 World College Radio Day
Julian Lennon to serve as ambassador for 2022 World College Radio Day
ABC Audio

Julian Lennon has been named the official 2022 ambassador for the 12th annual edition of World College Radio Day, which takes place Friday, October 7.

The celebration, which is organized by the not-for-profit College Radio Foundation, seeks to unite college radio stations in more than 50 countries to raise awareness about the work college stations do and value they bring to broadcasting.

“College radio is a good way to learn about what’s going on in the world, whether it’s locally or worldwide,” says Lennon in a statement. “College radio is not like the usual mainstream stuff, and I find that far more intriguing.”

This year’s World College Radio Day theme is “Voices for Peace.” Reflecting on the topic, Julian, who is the late John Lennon‘s older son, says, “I feel I’ve been pretty successful in promoting peace and trying to motivate people through so many mediums, but we’ve got to keep moving, we’ve got to keep changing, we’ve got to do better.”

An exclusive interview with Julian, conducted by students from World College Radio Day’s U.S. board, will be simulcast October 7 on over 700 participating college stations. Many of the stations also plan to play a recording of Julian’s recent cover of his father’s classic peace anthem “Imagine,” which he did in support of Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s invasion.

Lennon plans to release a 7-inch vinyl single featuring “Imagine” on or around November 18.

Last month, Julian released a new studio album titled Jude, his first new collection of original songs since 2011’s Everything Changes.

Previous World College Radio Day ambassadors have included Joan Jett, Poison‘s Bret Michaels, “Weird Al” YankovicThe Black Keys and Wyclef Jean.

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Nia Long shares mental health message amid fiancé cheating scandal

Nia Long shares mental health message amid fiancé cheating scandal
Nia Long shares mental health message amid fiancé cheating scandal
Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic

Nia Long shared a message on Instagram Tuesday, the first time the actress has posted to social media since the widespread news of cheating allegations against her longtime partner, Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka.

“A tip for mental health,” Long wrote on her page and shared to her IG Story. “Learn to distinguish who deserves an explanation, who deserves one answer, and who deserves absolutely nothing.”

The post comes nearly two weeks after Udoka’s suspension as head coach, following reports he had an affair with a female Celtics staff member.

Prior to her social post, Long shared a statement with ABC News expressing her gratitude for the support she’s been given amid the rumors. 

“The outpouring love and support from family, friends and the community during this difficult time means so much to me,” she said. “I ask that my privacy be respected as I process the recent events. Above all, I am a mother and will continue to focus on my children.”

The Celtics suspended Udoka from his coaching duties for the 2022-23 season. The organization shared news of the suspension on their website and Twitter account.

“The Boston Celtics announced today that the team has suspended Head Coach Ime Udoka for the 2022-23 season for violations of team policies,” the statement reads. “A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date. The suspension takes effect immediately.”

Long, 51, and Udoka, 45, have been engaged since 2015. They welcomed their son, Kez Sunday, in 2011. 

The award-winning actress once told Essence that while happily engaged to Udoka, she was in no rush to get down the aisle. 

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Carrie Underwood recalls first time meeting Loretta Lynn in tribute post: “She is irreplaceable”

Carrie Underwood recalls first time meeting Loretta Lynn in tribute post: “She is irreplaceable”
Carrie Underwood recalls first time meeting Loretta Lynn in tribute post: “She is irreplaceable”
ABC/Connie Chornuk

Carrie Underwood is paying her respects to Loretta Lynn

In an Instagram post, Carrie recalls meeting Loretta backstage at the Grand Ole Opry early on in her career — specifically how Loretta lightly spanked her as she walked by. 

“I turned around and there she was…in a big sparkly dress…laughing as she continued to walk down the hall at what she had just done…,” Carrie says. 

She goes onto describe the country legend as a “cantankerous little pistol” who was friendly, sweet, and “never afraid to be herself and speak her mind.”

Over the years, Carrie has been part of musical tributes to the legend, joining forces with Loretta and Reba McEntire on “Still Woman Enough,” the title track off Loretta’s 2021 collaborations album. She also contributed a cover of “You’re Lookin’ at Country” on the 2010 album Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Tribute to Loretta Lynn, in addition to performing “You Ain’t Woman Enough” during her homage to women of country music at the 2020 ACM Awards. 

“She is irreplaceable. She will be incredibly missed…but her legacy lives on in those of us whom she has influenced. I am truly grateful to have known such an amazing woman and artist,” Carrie continues. “Thank you, Loretta, for showing us how it’s done.” 

In the wake of Loretta’s passing, there has been an outpouring of support from artists across genres, including Miranda Lambert, Dolly Parton and Carole King.

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Parker McCollum offers look inside closet fit for a country king

Parker McCollum offers look inside closet fit for a country king
Parker McCollum offers look inside closet fit for a country king
ABC/Connie Chornuk

Looks like Parker McCollum needs more room in his closet. 

Parker took to Instagram Stories to show off the contents of his walk-in closet, which is filled to the brim with clothing and accessories fit for a country star. Parker pans over rows of striped shirts, denim jackets and flannels, plus a top shelf that’s laden with many different ball caps.

He also has rows of jeans neatly hanging next to his leather bags, while the floor is covered in cowboy boots and sneakers that stretch up to shelves lining the wall. 

“Running out of room,” Parker captions the video. 

His boot collection is likely to contain a few pair of Lucchese boots, as Parker recently launched an ongoing partnership with the famous brand. 

Parker shares a home with wife Hallie Ray Light. The couple wed in March 2022. 

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Misfits playing Las Vegas concert on New Year’s Eve

Misfits playing Las Vegas concert on New Year’s Eve
Misfits playing Las Vegas concert on New Year’s Eve
Scott Gries/Getty Images

The Misfits will be ringing in 2023 in Sin City.

The reunited horror punks — consisting of original members Glenn Danzig and Jerry Only, along with longtime guitarist Doyle Wolfgang Von Frankenstein — have announced a show in Las Vegas this coming New Year’s Eve, December 31.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, October 7 at 10 a.m. local time.

Danzig and Only reunited in 2016 — 33 years after the former left the Misfits in 1983 — and have played a number of one-off shows since. Last month, they headlined Chicago’s Riot Fest with a full-album performance of their 1982 debut, Walk Among Us, in honor of its 40th anniversary.

Prior to the Vegas date, the Misfits will celebrate Halloween with a Dallas show on October 29. Alice Cooper and The Distillers are also on the bill.

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Shawn Mendes reveals he has stage fright

Shawn Mendes reveals he has stage fright
Shawn Mendes reveals he has stage fright
Marion Curtis / StarPix for Sony

Shawn Mendes has toured the globe and performed before millions of fans — but it turns out he struggles with stage fright.

Speaking with Extra ahead of the release of the movie Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, Shawn revealed just how much he has in common with the titular character, which he voices.

“I love the juxtaposition of him being this giant, terrifying creature, and being so sensitive and so scared,” he said of what attracted him to the scarf-wearing reptile. He said Lyle’s character was “a beautiful way to express what it feels like” to be him.

Shawn noted that his career makes him seem larger than life, or even intimidating, but that’s not who he is at all. “He’s super shy. He’s super introverted and [has] stage fright,” he said of all the characteristics he shares with Lyle, noting he “constantly” feels these emotions.

The singer also finds inspiration in Lyle, adding, “I love how vulnerable he is. I feel like I am trying to embody that more at this place in my life.” Shawn also says Lyle taught him to be more honest.

Shawn revealed he does consider this movie an acting debut, even though he only provides the singing voice for Lyle. “There was a lot more acting involved in the way the songs had to be sung than I was expecting,” he said. 

Shawn said he is curious about movies and wants to get more involved with them. “This felt like a perfect first step into that world,” he expressed.

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile arrives in theaters October 7.

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“Love you Loretta”: Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton & more of Loretta Lynn’s contemporaries share tributes

“Love you Loretta”: Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton & more of Loretta Lynn’s contemporaries share tributes
“Love you Loretta”: Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton & more of Loretta Lynn’s contemporaries share tributes
ABC/Heidi Gutman

Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire and many of Loretta Lynn‘s peers are sharing their admiration for her following her death. 

Among those is Loretta’s sister Crystal Gayle, who wrote on Instagram, “the world lost a legend. We lost a sister. Love you Loretta.” 

Dolly and Reba connected Loretta to their own families, with Dolly saying that she and Loretta shared a sisterly bond, acknowledging how Loretta had been a support system for her in Nashville throughout their careers.

“So sorry to hear about my sister, friend Loretta. We’ve been like sisters all the years we’ve been in Nashville,” Dolly says, describing Loretta as a “wonderful human being” and reflecting on her talent. “I miss her dearly as we all will. May she rest in peace.” 

Loretta’s passing also brought up familial memories for Reba, noting that Loretta reminded her of her late mother, Jacqueline, as they were both “strong women” and “fiercely loyal.”

“I always did and I always will love Loretta. She was always so nice to me. I sure appreciate her paving the rough and rocky road for all us girl singers,” Reba shares alongside a photo of her and Loretta backstage at a show. 

Barbara Mandrell also has fond memories of the country icon, sharing a throwback photo of her, Loretta, Reba and Tanya Tucker with the caption, “Loretta Lynn contributed enormously to the world of Country Music. All of us adored and loved her.” 

Lynn passed away in the early morning hours of October 4 at her home in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee.   

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Naomi Osaka aims to tell stories “that empower women and girls” with new sports book

Naomi Osaka aims to tell stories “that empower women and girls” with new sports book
Naomi Osaka aims to tell stories “that empower women and girls” with new sports book
KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP via Getty Images)

Naomi Osaka continues to emphasize the importance of sports players off the field with her new book, The Way Champs Play. 

The celebrated tennis star is making it a priority to ensure young girls can take part in any sport they desire and show them it’s possible to be confident while doing so. 

“I wanted to reach young girls in a way that they would enjoy and understand, and it was really fun to simplify and celebrate girls in sport,” the four-time Grand Slam champion told People

Osaka says she made it a mission of her media company, Hana Kuma, to help tell stories that are empowering to women and young girls. “So it was the perfect fit to have this book be the first one we published,” she said. 

The picture book, which features a cover that shows girls from different backgrounds and abilities, champions women in all types of sports and reminds them they have the ability to find confidence while playing. Though a champion herself, Osaka says finding confidence is “really a process,” something that she works toward daily. 

“I am still sorting through, finding confidence in myself and what I do — that is why this book means so much.”

With The Way Champs Play, the 24-year-old entrepreneur hopes “young girls see the beauty and benefit in sports” and “remember that no dream is too big to dream.”

She’s also excited about the book’s simple message of having fun: “It’s something that I think we lose and it’s an important part of the game,” she said.

The Way Champs Play will be available December 6. 

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