Today's Pick

Alumni of the boy band NLT (an abbreviation of Not Like Them) are doing pretty well for themselves these days, I'd say! Kevin McHale scored a leading role as Artie on the hit TV series on "Glee," Justin Thorne went on to form the new group "One Call," Travis Garland has a hit single with "Believe," and now Visky "V" Sevani is back with a new single of his own! He just dropped the music video for his pop/R&B single "Take You To The Moon." If you're into catchy pop tracks you'll definitely want to check out the Seth Harden-directed video on YouTube.
Rarely is one bred to be a superstar. Los Angeles native, Sevani, is one of those rare breeds. From a young age, he was well cultured in the arts. Growing to be a triple-threat, he began to master dance, music, and theater; due to strong influences from his mother, a classically trained pianist, and his father, a collegiate degree holding dancer. His natural talent and gifts shined early, being able to capture and entertain watchers from his first dance moves to his first theater showcasing in "A Christmas Carol."
The former NLT member has been working hard this part year on his solo career and developing and creating his upcoming progressive Pop debut album "Steps," which is collaborating with High Valley Producers, Greg Whitman a.k.a. Whitty, and Dylan Charbonneau. It is also an album chronicling every step of a relationship from the initial love at first sight, to the broken heart and all the emotions and situations that fall in between.
The 22-year-old explores the light and darkness of helpless romantic Pop. Sevani isn't really out of this world, but his new tune, "Take You To The Moon" is! Sevani's new song is the first from his solo debut album, with the perfect blend of romantic lyrics and catchy melody and it's the ultimate pop love song! While finishing up his album, "Steps," Sevani will also be filming his first featured film, "Rock, Paper, Scissors." Much is to be expected in the near future from Sevani, the next generation entertainer.

After putting a second record with Robert Plant on hold, Alison Krauss returns with "Paper Airplane," the lead single and title track from the upcoming album with her usual musical partners, Union Station. A truly breathtaking collection of 11 exquisite songs, "Paper Airplanes," is her 14th album and 6th with Union Station, chosen with the impeccable taste and unerring intuition that have characterized her entire body of work, delivered by this world-class unit with an immediacy that goes beyond mere virtuosity, will be released on April 12.
The bluegrass singer-songwriter-extraordinaire is a spectacularly gifted vocalist, fiddle player and producer. As the crystalline queen of understatement, Krauss has wandered the chambers of the human heart now for two decades, weaving the always fragile fabric of emotions with a haunted, shimmering quality and perfectly played notes. Since her debut at the age of 14 in 1985, she has sold more than 12 million albums and won 26 Grammy Awards, the most for any female artist of any genre.
For "Paper Airplane," there is mostly the doubt in the wreckage made. Futility infuses the beauty, failure informs the beauty of the desolation. This is a song of love unresolved, a gorgeous notion of how much the very last gasps and spasms of "getting over" a love can be. Krauss explained the theme of track: "To me, it's like being in the middle of a very trying time and knowing it will end, but at the moment you're in the middle of it." This track finds Krauss and her virtuous band once again reminding us why they have become such a golden beacon in today's country landscape. The impressive title track is frankly everything we hoped it would be. A sweet folk ballad with subtle Americana and country touches. This is a song to get you through those painful nights you're sure you won't survive.
Throughout her remarkable career, which spans a quarter century, though she's only 39, Krauss has remained grounded and real. Deeply introspective as an artist, she's commensurately outgoing and spontaneous in conversation—both sides of her character evidencing a life-embracing humanity. Her stalwart loyalty to Union Station, her dignified evolution from quirky teen fiddle player to jaw-droppingly beautiful hitmaker, her incorporation of pop and rock classics into her bluegrass idiom – all these things mark a woman who has the taste to build an audience with class and character; she doesn't alienate her old fans and yet she is constantly bringing new ones on board.

Long Island pop-punk quintet Patent Pending have released a music video on mtvU for their anti-suicide song "One Less Heart to Break." The usually fun-loving, good-time pop-punkers of Patent Pending have chosen the epic and weighty "One Less Heart To Break" for their latest video and single.
"One Less Heart To Break" was written several years ago after the band lost a close friend to suicide. It's truly a beautiful song with a powerful message. The track, which frontman Joe Ragosta describes as the most serious song he's ever been a part of, was originally written by the band seven years ago after learning that one of their fans had committed suicide. "One Less Heart to Break" will be the fifth track on Pop punk outfit's forthcoming record, "I'm Not Alone." The anti-suicide, anti-depression song adds a more serious tone to the album.
For the past several years Patent Pending has been steadily ascending the ranks towards pop-punk royalty. Their infectious, anthemic take on the genre exudes creativity, positivity, and energy. With an arsenal of killer hooks, and loads of memorable, sing-along lyrics, the band has earned a rabid fanbase from coast to coast and around the globe. With "One Less Heart To Break," The alternative indie pop-punkers aim to transmit a serious message to all of their beloved fans: you are not alone. It's a moving musical tribute to their departed friend, a wishful memory, a cautionary tale, and a reminder to those in need to reach out.
The Dan Kennedy-directed video depicts the heartbreak felt by an entire community when a life is lost and focuses on the stories of a young woman and a young man each reaching the end of their respective ropes. Both of their lives take severe turns, and the choices they make have serious repercussions for themselves and their loved ones. Through it all, the band provides the perfect soundtrack with Ragosta detailing their struggles in each verse before exploding into the powerful chorus. The video culminates as a throng of mourners standing shoulder-to-shoulder in a candlelight vigil watch the band play as a hard rain falls. The effect is haunting and hopefully it will encourage those in need of help to seek it.

British pop-sensation Eliza Doolittle is back with another playful music video, this time for her catchy single "Mr Medicine," the fourth UK single off of her eponymous self-titled debut, which has just released in U.S. on March 22nd via Capitol Records. The British singer/songwriter is set to dazzle American audiences with her sweet vocal stylings.
Doolittle wrote the song with John Beck and Steven Chrisanthou, who also produced the track. Viva magazine asked if this Medicine is a metaphoric Mr., or represents an actual person in her life? Doolittle replied: "It's a secret! Everyone has tried to work out who or what Mr. Medicine is, but I'll give you a clue: it rhymes with Mr. Medicine!" Beatweek magazine asked if it's a "sarcastic take on the whole medicine thing." She replied: "Everyone thinks it's about drugs but it's not. It's actually the only song that I haven't told anyone what it's about yet, because no one seems to have guessed and I just can't believe it because it's so obvious." Guess its time to get our rhyming dictionary out and look up "Mr. Medicine!"
The easy breezy song is easily one of the standout tracks on Doolittle's debut and the super cute video only makes it more enjoyable. The 22-year-old gets together with Director Aoife McArdle for "Mr Medicine" video and a bittersweet twist on your typical walk home from a night on the tiles. The concept of the video is fairly simple, showing the long-haired Brit leaving a bar, and has the sneaking suspicion she's being followed as she wanders the streets alone at night, and she is, followed by a cast of truly bizarre characters from "Where The Wild Things are."
Doolittle fends off the unwanted attention from a variety of rather loveable-looking monsters, lurking in the darkest streets of trendy Shoreditch and environs. McArdle keeps things gentle with her naturalist approach. And there's a bit of swearing. Doolittle, for the most part seems un-phased by her little furry fan club, casting the occasional backwards glance and rolling her eyes. Our "Popping Up" songbird doesn't seem a bit concerned by her furry stalkers, even as she reaches her front door, perhaps because "Mr. Medicine" is inside, keeping these 'beasts' at bay?

Italian electro/house DJ and producer Benny Benassi teams up with British pop-rock singer Gary Go, has just debuted a music video on mtvU to kick off Ultra Music Festival, in support of his latest single "Cinema," which has gotten remixed by the producer Sonny Moore, aka Skrillex, who really has become the hottest thing in upcoming electronic music, with his bass heavy bangers that almost everyone seems to fall in love with.
The video features the Grammy winning DJ and his featured guest Gary Go taking turns at some sort of visualization clinic where they wear a helmet that allows them to see a particular memory. And then there's a twist. The Italian disc jokey, along with his collaborator brings fantasies a little closer to reality in this newly released futuristic, sci-fi-themed video, which is either an homage or rip-off of Kathryn Bigelow's 1995 dystopian film "Strange Days," the duo, along with fellow Benassi Brother Alle, relives their most cherished memories via a virtual reality helmet.
The jam starts off upbeat and high energy, with the nice vocals you'd expect. It's a great party banger, turn the bass way up, "Cinema" is the second single taken from Benassi's upcoming fifth full-length album, "Spaceship," to be released later this year. The track will release on April 12, and is also featured in the game "Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit." It's got his signature sound, huge amounts of bass, yet somehow very calm at parts, but still has something extra to cater your party. If you love Skrill, his remix will do more than tickle your fancy. It will probably do something very explicit to you actually. The remix is jam-packed with the customary Skrill filth you know and love.
Electronic music producer Skrillex is taking the electronic music world by storm. He has released a ton of great remixes, including remixes of Lady Gaga's "Alejandro" and La Roux's "In For The Kill." Skrillex's powerful and eclectic approach to electronic music is perfectly shown in this new remix of Benassi's "Cinema." The hard-hitting drums and massive bass drops elevate this song into the upper tier of dubstep anthems. Benassi and Skrillex both dropped Skrill's epic dubstep mix of "Cinema" in their sets at SXSW last week, and the song was by far the EDM anthem of the fest.

After the failed promotions for their duet "Superhuman," Keri Hilson and Chris Brown has teamed again for "One Night Stand," a very 90s-inspired R&B balled track is the second single from Hilson's sophomore album, "No Boys Allowed," which is in stores now. The two blonde R&B singers meet up at a dark mechanic work shop, for an after hours carburetor clean and dance off.
"No Boys Allowed" actually does allow boys. The track listing mentions appearances by Rick Ross, Nelly, J.Cole, Kanye West, Timbaland and on this steamy track, Chris Brown. Hilson explained the album is a deeply personal project designed to bring women to their feet. She said, "It's not about excluding men. It's more about women understanding that there comes a time in your life when you want a man. A real man. A grown up. Not a boy. And that's not a bad thing." "One Night Stand" is a slow jam R&B and soul ballad produced by Charlie Bereal. This song about casual sex was reportedly intended to be a sequel to Brown's 2007 minor hit "Take You Down."
Hilson has apparently lifted her "No Boys Allowed" policy for the Colin Tilley-directed new video, which features Hilson getting cozy with fellow R&B performer Brown, in a sultry, car mechanic fantasy as the two seduce each other in a smoky garage, where we see Brown plays a mechanic, who goes from getting dirty working on a car in a warehouse to working on Hilson's body for just one night. Dressed in all black, the two blondes get down to the slow jam, exuding just the right amount of sex appeal. Both Hilson and Brown demonstrated some great vocal control throughout the whole thing and harmonized perfectly in the chorus.
"Chris Brown is a good friend of mine. He actually was one of the writers on the song, so I decided to make it a duet. It's a perfect marriage," Hilson said. "If TLC and Jodeci did a record together, 'One Night Stand' is what I imagine it would sound like." Hilson has been impressing us with her recent videos as they all have unique stories and looks. "Pretty Girl Rock," pays tribute to iconic women in show biz, including Janet Jackson and Tina Turner. "One Night Stand" matches up to the standard Hilson has set for herself.

Americana cultural icons, Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow cozy up to the microphone, together once again, with the new video for their heartbreaking new duet single, "Collide," the third single from Rock's latest LP, "Born Free" album. Despite his image as a hard drinking, hard partying rap star turned rock 'n' roller, Rock's most successful single to date is his lovelorn duet with Crow, "Picture," which became an instant hit and karaoke bar staple in late 2002. "Collide" marks the second painful love duet from the one-time unlikely partners.
"Collide," their latest duet, is a country-tinged bar ballad with sweet country rock tune that suits their easy-going, lived-in voices very well. It relies heavily on the gritty vocal timbres of Crow and Rock, as they loosely harmonize their way through recollections of both good times and bad. The tune starts out with a delicate organ and the song is meant for two lovers, finding solace in each other's arms, amidst fears and scars from a less than picture-perfect life. The chorus hits with whiskey-soaked honesty.
The "Born Free" and "Sign Your Name" singers lean on one another in this sad love song, which tells the story of two former flames who take shelter in each other's arms once again. This line draws out in detail the reasons that they're each lonely, and the ways that they've both damaged themselves. Heartland musical legend, Bob Seger, who has been known to dabble in blue collar love affairs, plays a simple piano line which accompanies the acoustic guitars and lap steels, giving the track a true country and western feel.
The chemistry between the two long-time friends is readily apparent throughout the course of the Deaton Flaigen-directed video, which is low-key too, and full of footage that will make you wonder whether they're actually an item or just playing one on TV. In the clip, Rock and Crow perform on stage in a bar, while other-world versions of themselves court each other in the same bar. Rock is seen in the video in a rare state, without his ever-present hat atop his head. The song will be making its television debut this weekend as part of our VH1 Top 20 Video Countdown.

After a long break, Dominicana songstress Kat DeLuna has just premiered the music video for her new feel-good dance single "Dancing Tonight," the third single lifted off her Belgium released-only new sophomore album "Inside Out," which will hit stores stateside sometime this summer and feature more ballads and more singing to show off her powerful operatic voice, rather than just loading the CD with club bangers. The song she has chosen to try and crack the US market again and it has been a radio hit, and was officially released as a single earlier this month on March, 11.
DeLuna launched her career in 2007 with the release of her debut single "Whine Up," which took the world by storm and became a favorite in clubs, making it the biggest hit of the summer. She continued her success with her debut album "9 Lives," followed by her latest "Inside out" album which includes hits like "Unstoppable" featuring rap god Lil Wayne, and "Push Push" with Akon. The 23-year old singer is known for her soprano vocal range! Such a tiny girl with such a powerful voice.
"Dancing Tonight" has debuted as the No.1 Breakout on the Billboard Dance Chart. The DeLuna-styled dance number is already a fan-favorite on YouTube, and is now available for download on iTunes. Dominican songstress chatted to us about her new single "Dancing Tonight," "It's a dance track, but it's very sexy and fun," DeLuna says. "Vocally it's stronger... Musically – it's still the same DeLuna sound, but I'm talking more about girls lives – having fun, but at the same time becoming a woman. I think all my fans are going to be really excited." She actually has a point. It's a really hot dance/club anthem that flaunts a very melodic voice of the DeLuna herself and contains fantastic production elements to make it the perfect track to jam in the clubs this beautiful spring.
DeLuna was one of the first popular artist's to work with RedOne, and her Latin-flavored urban-pop/club sound was very fresh at the time in regards to top forty pop music. The "Whine Up" singer is partying with her own pals in "Dancing Tonight" video, which filmed earlier on December 21-23 at the Milk Studios in New York City. The Dominican diva switched up her fashion in the clip, laying in a bathtub with a patch over her eye and whipping her hair around in a leotard in another scene. As you'll see, DeLuna puts on her dancing shoes and glams up for the feel-good anthem of the year! Love the little salsa break in the middle, right before the rap by Fo Onassis!

UK indie pop rock band, One Night Only Team up with Coca-Cola for new Global Ad Campaign! Coca-Cola is set to rock teens' worlds in 2011 with "Coca-Cola Music," an innovative new music program that will give teen fans the inside track on the creation of music and the opportunity to view the industry's leading artists at work.
Formed in 2003, the band consists of singer and guitarist George Craig, guitarist and backing vocalist Mark Hayton, bassist Daniel Parkin, drummer James Craig and keyboardist and backing vocalist Jack Sails. Emerging talent One Night Only have written and recorded a brand new track called "Can You Feel It" as part of the 2011 UMG and Coca-Cola Music campaign. One Night Only is a promising young band gain for themselves, and fit with the rousing song "Can You Feel It" perfectly with the new Coke spot and to 'make you happy to' campaign for Coca-Cola. The track will make its debut as the soundtrack to the new global Coca-Cola television commercial called "Walls." Produced by Wieden+Kennedy Amsterdam, the "Walls" commercial brings to life the sacred teenage ritual of grabbing a Coke, cranking up the stereo and enjoying a moment of release through music at the end of their day.
Though they might feel like they are on their own, the teen ritual is one that takes place in homes across the world. Featuring hundreds of teens of different nationalities alongside One Night Only, the ad portrays this universal moment, bringing down the boundaries and uniting teens all over the world through their love for Coke and music. "Navigating the insecurities that inevitably come with the teen years is never easy. Coke is unencumbered by the drama of life, it is a simple moment of happiness, not unlike rocking out in the privacy of your own room," the director Mark Bernath said.
The interactive music video for "Can you Feel It" was also shot on the same set. Accessible online on Coca-Cola music sites globally, teens will be able to see themselves in the video with the band by filming and uploading their own footage, which can then be shared with friends through their social networks. One Night Only band member Craig said, "The whole vibe of this project was to show that music has the same effect on people all over the world. It can be a real release from day to day life and there's nothing better than getting in from school, opening a Coke, and playing your favorite music." They went on to spend the following two years tearing the vaulted roof off the local scene with unrefined gigs showcasing punk bastard pop way beyond their tender years.

Now that "High School Musical" is over and out, Disney is planning the debut of their new musical movie set in high school, "Lemonade Mouth." The flick is based on the best-selling book of the same name by Mark Peter Hughes, and follows the (mis)adventures of five Rhode Island disparate teens who bond over detention and create a new band. The detention buddies try to organize a student-led fight to save the school's one organic frozen-lemonade machine that becomes the mascot of their band.
Directed by the award winning Patricia Riggen and executive-produced by Debra Martin Chase, "Lemonade Mouthh" showcases a talented cast, led by popular stars of Disney Channel hits: Bridgit Mendler as lead vocalist Olivia White; Adam Hicks as keyboardist Wen Giford; Hayley Kiyoko as electric guitarist Stella Yamada; Naomi Scott as bass guitarist Mohini; and newcomer Blake Michael as percussionist Charlie Delgado. "Lemonade Mouth" was filmed on location in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and will premiere on the Disney Channel on April 15.
Mendler is best known for her lead role as "Teddy Duncan" on the Disney Channel Original Series "Good Luck Charlie," and becoming a rock star and has a blast with her cast for an exclusive world premiere of their new official video for their debut single, "Somebody" on Disney Channel during a special Prom-themed The Suite Life on Deck. The song was taken from the "Lemonade Mouth" soundtrack, will include nine original songs, and available nationwide on April 12. The music on the soundtrack is a rich blend of rock, dance, hip-hop and pop styles. The debut single, "Somebody," is a moving, hope-filled power ballad. Mendler may be the next big thing and Disney seems to agree. The 18-year-old actress is seen jamming with her co-stars and romping around the garage with them in this newly-revealed music video.

The bluegrass mandolin prodigy Sierra Hull has released new video for her genteel and wistful new single, "Easy Come, Easy Go," off her forthcoming new album "Daybreak." The video was directed by award winning director David McClister and was filmed in one day at the Two Rivers Mansion in Nashville. "Daybreak" was produced by Union Station's bassist, Barry Bales. It features some of the best singers and players in the contemporary bluegrass scene. This is Mandolin sensation's follow-up to 2008's "Secrets."
Bluegrass music has always had a mature sound with beautiful music and sweet vocals. People often think of Alison Krauss and Union Station when they think bluegrass. Born and raised in Byrdstown, Tennessee, Hull became well known in bluegrass circles for her skill on guitar and mandolin at age 8, Hull's drive to succeed in the bluegrass world. Foregoing the typical route of young musicians Hull is looking to take the mature route even if it means giving up huge initial success in favor of long-term sustained success.
Written by Kevin McLung, debut country single is about a young woman getting over a relationship. She sees herself no longer crying when she remembers the boy. She's slowly going through the breakup and moving on. It's a mature topic and one that fits right in with her goal of becoming a mature musician. "Easy Come, Easy Go" is also a beautiful song. The music of the fiddles, steel guitars and mandolin are there. The sound is familiar yet new. It sounds like an Alison Krauss song, but has its own appeal also.
A good chunk of popular music's real estate has been carved up along lines of age these last half-dozen decades, and we're used to seeing young musicians aim exclusively for young audiences then flounder as they outgrow teenaged listeners' tastes and concerns. Pan-generational mentoring and mingling has done much to insulate bluegrass from this coming-of-age quandary. Still, the 19-year-old Bluegrass artist is the rare soul to make it through these years entirely unscathed. Overall Hull and her new song "Easy Come, Easy Go" should find a ready audience in the country and bluegrass world. It's hard to deny talent like this and people respond to talent, authentic stories, and beautiful music.

The English singer-songwriter and musician James Blunt released his brand new official music video for his third single, "If Time Is All I Have" from his latest third studio album "Some Kind Of Trouble." This is a very touching and extraordinary music video masterpiece! "If time is all I have, I'll waste it all on you..." I'm speechless... This song is nothing but the pure perfection. It makes your heart different. I think it will be a huge hit!
Blunt penned this stark, due for release in the UK on April 4, heartfelt ballad of regret with Eg White. The Award-winning British musician is best known as the crooner for the 2005 hit single, "You're Beautiful." A sensitive, emotional ballade in a very minimalistic entourage. Here he proves to be an amazing musician with his voice getting under your skin. To me music is emotions, that is the reason why it exists to me. To me Blunt proves again that he is a very talent musician, songwriter and for sure challenge himself with every new album. The new track is giving you a glimpse of the new album.
Blunt admitted in an interview with The Daily Telegraph that his songs of regret are always about the same girl. He said: "Your first love is probably the most idealistic. I probably do have a sense of romantic yearning, but I'm really a failed romantic, as the songs attest." The girl in question is thought to be Dixie Chassay, a casting director who has worked on the Harry Potter movies, whom Blunt dated long before he became famous. Blunt mentions her in the liner notes on his first album and it is believed she was the ex who inspired him to write "You're Beautiful."
One of the best pop musicians, Blunt bares his heart and soul in a way few performers can with the emotional "If Time Is All I Have" when he first time performed this song for a private audience in January of this year. Amazing! Prepare for an emotional roller coaster ride as you watch Blunt video for his new single, "Time Is All I Have." At the very least you'll have a lump in your throat - gulp, but it's more likely you'll be desperately trying to find a tissue while sobbing your heart out. Blunt is grown into a unique and special artists. Also his lyrics are something that easily stays in your head without getting boring. You can find a deeper meaning if you want to, if not, simply enjoy this talented work!

Keith Urban new music video for his latest ballad single, "Without You," has revealed home footage of the country music star's life! The 43-year-old Country crooner filmed it at Soundstage in Hollywood with Chris Hicky sitting behind the lens. He shares personal home movies with his fans in "Without You" video. The lack-and-white video reveals the Australian country music singer's life after he met and wed his wife Nicole Kidman in images that are not just projected onto the all behind him, but the images surround him as he sings the tender love song.
The romantic new song that Urban called "the most autobiographical song I never wrote," is the second single taken from his pseudo EP "Get Closer," gives a glimpse into fine-tuned domestic bliss. Urban tells PEOPLE that when he first heard the tune, "it was uncanny how much it was suited to my life. I think if I'd written something like this, I would have felt it wasn't poetically disguised enough. Maybe it's because I didn't write it [that] I was able to hear how authentic and truthful it is." I'm not sure how the Eiffel Tower got in there, but we guess that comes under the "traveling, singing, it don't mean nothing without you," part of the lyric.
Urban is literally covered with images of a very full life, and that's exactly how director Hicky wanted it. "We both wanted the world he is singing about to be revolving around him," Hicky said. "So we projected the imagery onto Keith and into the room so it could exist within the song. It was like we had movies playing, and Keith was our movie screen." Urban and Hicky collaborated side by side on this, their 10th video together. "We wanted to keep the video simple by trying not to be too literal with the story and making sure we compliment the song," he said. "We had a good time making it so hopefully the fans love it, too. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone out on the road soon."
Marriage has apparently had a terrific effect on him, and no one should begrudge him that fact. But Urban is at his best when exploring the heart's aches and pains, even as expressed on uptempo tunes like "Days Go By" and "Somebody Like You" that find him seeking comfort in either a sweet companion or the open road. One of the most emotive vocalists in the genre, Urban has chosen a song that might fit his life, but doesn't feel all that vital or visionary. A pleasant bit of country pop, "Without You" will stick with you for four minutes and no more.

The Black Eyed Peas have dedicated their latest video for "Just Can't Get Enough" to the victims of the natural disaster in Japan. The Peas teamed up with director Ben Mor and traveled to Tokyo for the shoot which took place only one week before the devastating natural disaster occurred in Japan. It opens with the message for the people in the country: "This video was filmed in Japan one week before the earthquake. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the people of Japan. We love you." The band hope that their video for "Just Can't Get Enough" will raise awareness and funds for those who need help.
"Just Can't Get Enough" is the second single from American hip hop group's sixth studio album, "The Beginning," available on iTunes now. The electro song is an attempt to showcase the "physical and emotional range" of the voice of band member Fergie. It vaults suddenly from the rare dignity of string-synth textures to a sweatily pumping techno finale. Apl.de.ap told Beatweek Magazine why he wanted this to be the follow up to "The Time (Dirty Bit). Said the mohawked Black Eyed Peas co-founder: "It's a different tempo and it's also paying homage to the ladies. It's a love song and it's got a nice melody to it. So I think it would be a great different taste for our listeners."
"It was the easiest video I ever shot because it was us living our lives," Fergie told Entertainment Tonight. "I love that it's showing a true perspective of how it can sometimes be lonely on the road away from our loved ones. It also demonstrates the love and connection we have with Japan. Our heart goes out to all of the Japanese people who have been affected by this natural disaster." True to form, the video plays out like a love letter to the thriving metropolis and culture-rich city that made Tokyo. Taboo expressed, "It was an amazing moment in time because Japan has always been my favorite place on the planet. It was great to do our video there. God bless the Japanese. Our love goes out to them." Apl.de.ap also confirmed that "doing it guerrilla style in Tokyo was the way to capture it!"
The music video is about them living their lives on the road even though they are away from their loved ones. It will also be dedicated to the victims in Japan as it was filmed a week before the earthquake. Stacy Ferguson is seen enjoying her solitude in hotel room, sitting by the window and enjoying Tokyo's night city view. will.i.am, Taboo and Apl.de.ap, meanwhile, take a tour around the town, giving fans a look at the thriving metropolis and culture-rich city that made Tokyo. The tribute video closed with a request to donate to the Red Cross, urging fans to make donation for the relief effort. The four-member group are set to perform the track live on 'American Idol' tonight.

Justin Bieber is jamming with the popular country act Rascal Flatts in a newly-debuted flashy video for their joint remix track "That Should Be Me," which is available on Bieber's new "Never Say Never – The Remixes" soundtrack CD, which was released last month. The 17-year-old singer filmed the video with the country music band last month after he cut his signature hair flip to give him a more grown-up style than his signature floppy locks. The love ballad song is super catchy and the the band members' voices blend perfectly with Bieber's. In fact, the video hit No.1 on iTunes and Bieber tweeted his pride.
The original version of "That Should Be Me" appears in Bieber's "My World 2.0" CD, and the revamped version is recorded for his "Never Say Never" soundtrack album. Of crossing genre from pop to country, he told ABC, "Music is music, and it's a universal language. It doesn't really matter what style, as long as it appeals to others and people like it, that's all that really matters." In "That Should Be Me," a "sobbing ballad," the teen heartthrob "plays the scorned ex," with lyrics like, "Did you forget all the plans that you made with me?"
If you like music videos about making music videos, this one's for you. Tween pop and country music might not seem like a natural pairing, but their collaboration has resulted in one of Bieber's better songs. This song is about a girl, but it's easy to imagine Bieber and Flatts' Gary LeVox are actually talking about which one of them should be singing lead. "That Should Be Me" is tune of lovelorn regret brings some unintentional laughs when the camera pans between a doe-eyed 17-year-old Bieber and a middle-aged country singer wailing, "That should be me." Whoever their mystery girl is, it's probably illegal for her to be dating at least one of them.
The video is a meta-statement on making videos. While the video isn't one of real creative value, we do get to see Bieber interact with the country band. While the Bieber strums the strings on his guitar in a room playing the track, the trio of country bumpkins joined the pop star for a remix of Bieber's hit song. The clip also features plenty of sad-faced over-emoting - crying! Falling on knees! Popping of collars! Throwing down of jackets! - and The video ends with Bieber walking off the set. The way the scenes tie together as if the joint effort were unplanned makes the "That Should Be Me" video feel as raw as the emotional song and lends you to believe the Bieber/Flatts collective force was anticipated all along.

Florida pop outfit Hey Monday have released a new music video for the revamped version of their hit single "Candles" on Just Jared. The Florida natives, fronted by Cassadee Pope, find themselves in a bleak, casually haunted house, surrounded by 15 fire hazards' worth of candles, which signify that this is very much a torch song. It almost feels like the chapter that should follow Taylor Swift's "Back To December" video. You know -- houses, sadness, regret, melancholia. The new video revealed an all new arrangement and re-recorded vocals by lead singer Pope.
"Candles" is a title song from their sophomore EP, "Candles." The song has two versions. The first version was featured on the band's 2008 debut album, "Hold on Tight." The second version was recorded while they were making their first EP, "Beneath It All." It was also announced that the single would be released along with an acoustic version and a new song called "The One That Got Away." Pope explained the differences between the new and old version of the song. "As musicians and as people, we have grown so much in the last three years," she said. "I think the new 'Candles' really reflects that with its richer textures and more sophisticated arrangement. It's more uplifting now, as well, and translates really well live!"
Although fans have grown to love the original ballad, they will undoubtedly gravitate toward the updated version, which has been re-recorded and arranged with different instrumentation for a bolder sound. Pope's lyrics remain the same, yet in this version, she seems to sing her words with less heartache and more aplomb. Frontwoman says, "'Candles' has always been a precious song to all of us. It was our first ballad, and even more importantly, a very honest song lyrically. I went through a difficult break-up when I was 17 and this song was like my therapy session. Since we started playing it live 3 years ago, we've had different ideas to change it up and make it evolve. That's why I'm very excited about this new version. It's more organic sounding now. I was able to re-record the vocals and pretty much sing the song exactly like I do live."
Now the good news for American four-piece pop-punk band Hey Monday is that "Candles" will also be featured on tonight's episode of "Glee," which is, without a doubt, the TV show on which you want your music heard these days if you're looking to make a splash with the same kids who rush to iTunes the moment Lea Michele lets out a note. Of course, Pope couldn't be more excited for the pop ballad cover. "It is an honor to have our song covered by one of the biggest show on television," the 21-year-old tells JSYK exclusively. "I think 'Glee' is amazing -- it's a breath of fresh air and I especially admire a show that revolves around music. I can't wait to hear their rendition of 'Candles'!" Tune in to "Glee" tonight, to catch Kurt and Blaine's rendition of "Candles" on Fox.

Canadian R&B songstress Melanie Fiona returns in 2011 with her new video on Tuesday's episode of 106 & Park for "Gone And Never Coming Back," the first single from Fiona's sophomore album "The MF Life," the follow-up to her 2009 debut "The Bridge," and tentatively scheduled for a July release. "From the sophomore album definitely expect growth," She said. "I want people to now recognize me more as an artist. Vocally I've really pushed myself a lot further and all the songs are really big full body songs."
Early reaction to "Gone and Never Coming Back" has been stellar. Written by Andrea Martin and produced by Jay Fenix, the deeply emotional ballad finds the songstress crooning over a love that was meant to be forgotten, and Billboard calls it "a catchy tune about heartbreak and despair." This record sounds like it could be a winner. It seems that when Fiona described her new album as "stadium Soul" she was referring to a mix of live instruments, powerful vocals and grand compositions. The 27-year-old displays gritty emotion and passion on such a powerful song. The video itself was well crafted and thoroughly connected to the lyrics.
Fiona makes her powerful new song cry, the Grammy-nominated songstress sings away her pain with her soulful vocals in the video for "Gone and Never Coming Back," which shows an emotional Fiona getting her frustrations out. Light bulbs explode, wine glasses shatter, and fire erupts as the Canadian songbird shares her emotional tale of love lost in the Colin Tilley-directed clip. Going for a "Stadium Soul" sound this go around, Fiona's powerful voices drives the show with a nice array of piano chords keeping time in the background. Clearly the visuals were meant to further this emotional feeling that the song is trying to get across.
Looking back on 2010 it's clear that in many ways this was the year of the woman. From Nicki Minaj's raps to Alicia Keys' Empire State hook and much more, strong women like Melanie Fiona took their rightful place at music's front lines. Fiona continues to cement her role as a pillar of new school r&b/soul on new turn "Gone and Never Coming Back." While whoever maestro composed this soaring, piano driven ballad deserves credit – it's the perfect sonic backdrop for Fiona to showcase her gripping, emotional and undeniably powerful voice.

Just like Disney's Selena Gomez, Nickelodeon teen star Victoria Justice sings, and she's just premiered her new music video tonight during Nickelodeon's "Best Player" for her surprisingly catchy song "Beggin' On Your Knees," off the the soundtrack for the TV series "Victorious." The album is due to be released in Summer. Justice, who gets revenge on a two-timing boyfriend in the upcoming iParty with "Victorious," spends the "Begging" video talking about getting revenge on a two-timing boyfriend.
The 18-year-old actress/singer recruited her "Victorious" expel friends to assistance her out in the video. She walks down the beach with her love seductiveness in these stills from her brand new "Beggin' On Your Knees" video, which features the 18-year-old brunette beauty lamenting the loss of a boyfriend. She then predicts that one day the guy will literally "be begging on his knees" for her to come back. Most of the action takes place at a carnival, Justice is enjoying the carnival with her friends, and the boy she likes. Unfortunately, he's got his eye on another girl, taking her to all of the same spots he went to with her.
Justice's "Beggin' on Your Knees" video opens with Justice spotting the guy she dated hanging out with another girl at a carnival. An angry and defiant Justice sings, "You mess with me, I mess with her, so I'll make sure you get what you deserve." The video highlights Justice's vocal chops, although auto tune does appear to be used extensively in the song. "Beggin' on Your Knees" also features Justice and her fellow "Victorious" cast members hit the Santa Monica Pier, and run around at a carnival, but also get into a little mischief — set to a surprisingly catchy song.
I like all of the nighttime amusement park scenes in this music video where Justice goes around following the couple, and of course the song is a fabulous listen as she tells the boy that he'll be begging on his knees. Fans hoping for more Justice are in luck: she is scheduled to perform "Beggin' on Your Knees" at the 2011 Kids' Choice Awards on April 2, where she is nominated for Favorite TV Actress. Justice is without question one of Nickelodeon's biggest talents, having already enjoyed a successful acting career and several hit songs. "Beggin' on Your Knees," both the single and the video, is yet another example of her abilities.

Colbie Caillat premiered the music video for "I Do", the official lead single from the California singer's upcoming third full length, "All of You," which is slated for release on May 3. The upbeat cheery tune, was released on February 7, and it hit No.1 on iTunes store its first day. The Grammy Award-winning pop singer said "I Do" is supposed to be sort of a joke but it is hard to explain and it is about marriage.
Caillat is one of the few in the business that really radiates genuine character that is only concerned with being who she is. She hasn't been one to push new genre envelopes or try to innovate in a completely new way. Instead, she remains true to herself and this works fantastically. Caillat's music has always had a soft, supple flow and "I Do" is no exception. The three-minute track plunging in cold feet and all. Caillat develops a smart and uncomplicated acoustic sound in the upbeat, happy sunny-day song, which was written by Caillat and Toby Gad and has infectious, finger snapping beat that dances around the hallowed marital vow – all the way to an unexpectedly sweet, teasing finally. Background vocal lines weave across auxiliary percussion beats as Caillat's lead lines carry the tune through three breathless minutes, with only the briefest of pauses.
The acoustic arrangement, the shuffling beat, and the vocals floating along like they are propelled on a gentle ocean breeze are unmistakable trademarks of a Caillat song. If there is a modern California sound, songs like "Bubbly" and "Falling For You" would fit that mold, and "I Do" is a welcome addition to the genre. "I Do" continues this tradition with the protagonist contemplating spending the rest of her life with the one she loves. While a lot of songs that have to do with marriage end up being ballads, "I Do" captures the joy of realizing that you are with the person you want to spend your life with, and boasts a massive hook that will embed itself into your brain.
Caillat smiles head to toe about relationships and taking them to the next level because they are fun, spontaneous, loving and tender in her latest video "I Do." Love the energy and visual warmth from director Ethan Lader in Caillat's fuzzy feel good "I Do." Now she does what Malibu California girls do best - smile, giggle, flirt and enjoy the lightness and mystery of life that comes from being in love in "I Do" video. Lader does a stunning job of bringing this feeling to romantic light in the video, which begins with a lazy warm wake up call that we have all experienced - happy and excited to be alive. As Caillat plays guitar and sees real intimacy between an eye-grabbing black and white coupling of two facial close-ups spending timeless time in bed. It all adds up to give you "I Do."

A new dance-infused video for Michael Jackson's current single "Hollywood Tonight" has debuted via the pop star's official website. The Teddy Riley produced song is the second official single taken from the late King of Pop's posthumous release "Michael," and one of its standout tracks. The storyline of "Hollywood Tonight" charts the journey of a young woman arriving in Hollywood from small town America as she follows her dream to be a star; though her ambition is to be a dancer, her story represents the struggle for every artist or musician struggling to make it in the world.
Originally written during the recording of 2001's "Invincible" album, this song warns about the dangers of chasing your dream in Tinseltown. It received its television debut on last December when talk show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres premiered the tune on The Ellen DeGeneres Show while dancing throughout the audience. Riley told Billboard magazine that he had Jackson's more danceable hits in mind when concocting its sound. "I was looking at just doing the next level of 'Billie Jean' meets 'Dangerous' or 'Doggin' Me Around,'" said the producer." "It's like one of those driving bass lines that you will remember."
The Wayne Isham-directed video was filmed last month on the sidewalk of the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood and over 60 dancers were on the set as they joined the female lead in an MJ-inspired dance routine. Flashdance, Showgirls, Burlesque...all these things have one thing in common. The video is a sweet story, follows the journey of a young and feisty woman, who idolizes Jackson, played by Algeria-born hip hop dancer Sofia Boutella, arrives in Hollywood on a bus to pursue her dream in hope to become a professional dancer.
The French dancer steps off a charter bus, suitcase in tow, ready to take on the big city. She moonlights as a waitress by day, a stripper by night, hits the audition circuit to no avail. She incorporates many of Jackson's signature dance moves into her own style and wears costumes similar to those worn by the late King of Pop. And she eventually has an emotional moment next to Jackson's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and recaptures her passion for dancing. "Her story represents the struggle for every artist or musician struggling to make it in the world," so Sony Music explains about the video. Jackson will long be remembered for his groundbreaking music videos and "Hollywood Tonight" is hoped to once again offer an innovative visual pairing to the erstwhile King of Pop's music.

Selena Gomez and her band the Scene debuted a bright, cheery video for "Who Says" with a distinctive art style and a city setting, which was directed by Chris Applebaum, will premiere on Disney Channel tomorrow. The Disney songstress tones down her photo-model appearance to a casual look to sing with her band and a bunch of fans on the beach. The "Wizards of Waverly Place" star leaves a photo shoot session to walk barefoot down the streets, singing "I'm no beauty queen, I'm just beautiful me." She later hits the shore in a casual outfit and jams with The Scene. "The whole video was very fun to shoot. It was really very simple and natural," the 18-year-old actress said.
The single is the lead single from the dance-pop act Selena Gomez & The Scene's third album, which is expected to hit shelves on June 28. The uplifting tune "Who Says" is a single about embracing yourself and not allowing others to bring you down. In an anthem type style, the focus is about shrugging off the critics. "I think that this song is such a great message to my fans and it really touched me when I heard it. 'Who Says' is a song that says 'Who Says' that you're not perfect," Gomez added. "I've always tried to make my fans feel like I'm just like them, because I am - I'm going through everything that I'm going through. Basically, it's to the haters. It's to the people that try to bring you down."
There is a palpable wave of optimism rising through the ranks of teenage pop stars. Gomez's new single, "Who Says," is an an ode to self-worth. The up-tempo paean of self-empowerment was co-written by Priscilla Renea and produced by Eman. The empowering new track premiered Tuesday during On Air With Ryan Seacrest. The digital single was made available four days later on March 14th. Gomez, who has caught a ton of flack from young believers for her relationship with the teen crush of the moment, says the song is aimed at "the haters." As for the song's positive message, it's one that Gomez hopes will "inspire my fans to embrace who they really are."
"Who Says" is a departure from the last few tunes that Gomez has released. Her previous singles "A Year Without Rain," "Round and Round" and "Naturally" have been in the vein of club jams, whereas the new song has a more organic, acoustic vibe to it. Much of the song seems a bit superfluous, "I'm sure you've got some things you'd like to change about yourself, but when it comes to me, I wouldn't wanna be anybody else." And, like many feel good anthems, this one is a little bit tepid. That said, its a cute song and you can check it out below.

The star-crossed lovers we met Nine years ago in Nelly and Kelly Rowland's Grammy-winning collaboration on "Dilemma" are back, and rekindle the flame in the duo's video for their new match-up "Gone." The Jim Jonsin-produced and Rico Love-penned R&B-ballad mid-tempo serves as the official third single from the St Louis rapper's sixth studio album "5.0." Reunited artists frolic on a beach in flirty new clip and both their talents are definitely exhibited in this 2011 version.
Another "stellar duet" from Rowland and Nelly, the lovey-dovey tune "Gone" is the sequel to Nelly's 2002 worldwide No.1 single "Dilemma," also with Rowland. The predominately R&B-ballad contains elements of pop music. Like on "Dilemma," Nelly and Rowland address one another by name as they sing about having the hots for each other over a relaxed R&B melody. This new slow groove is harmless enough, and even boasts a similar beat to its predecessor. It's a rather familiar mid-tempo urban pop ballad – albeit this time about re-kindling lost love.
"Gone" extends the story of the duo's earlier single "Dilemma". Nelly told MTV that "Gone" was not just a sequel. He said "I don't want to say it's a sequel. I don't want to diminish anything with 'Dilemma' or have an expectation you can't live up to when you do that. When you do that type of thing, there's people who are already, 'I don't wanna hear it... It's one of those things where we did reconnect. Our chemistry has already proven to be good, whether it was onstage or in the studio. It was something that we wanted to reconnect with... It's a cool joint. I think people will get it."
That theme is reflected in the video, which was directed by Marc Klasfeld and filmed in early February in Mexico on a sandy beach. The synopsis of the video shows Nelly and Rowland both vacationing on an island resort and cozying up on the beach and getting intimate poolside in the steamy scenes. As video plays along, Nelly spots Rowland lounging out in the sun and is stopped in his tracks, lowering his sunglasses. Throughout the video, they take turns courting each other, but also pining for the other. But will the older and wiser Nelly and Rowland turn their flirtations into a lasting relationship, or will they fizzle after a fling? You'll just have to watch the sexy co-stars heat up the screen once again below to find out.

The Secret Sisters are a new-age traditional Country music duo, consisting of vocalists Laura and Lydia Rogers. Their 1950's-inspired musical style has been described as "a guileless, rapturous mixture of rootsified pop." The siblings may hailing direct from the fertile musical territory of Mussel Shoals, Alabama, but the sibling pair pay respect to the home state of country music in their newly debut video for self-penned easygoing anthem "Tennessee Me," a piano-driven song begging for a slow dance on a summer night, is the first notes of the lovely opener off sisters' self titled debut.
They say everything in life is cyclical, and the sibling duo take us back to an age of folk and country music that is refreshing. You could easily picture the duo sitting at the back of a small bar strumming a guitar and holding the audience captive with their voices. The Secret Sisters' incredible story is as simple and true as the effortless harmonies that got them here. "We can't wait for everyone to see our new video, not only because it's our first official music video, but also because it's for a song we wrote early in our careers in tribute to the wonderful state of Tennessee," Laura says. "The fans have expressed a real love for the song so far, so we're happy to be able to share it with them through cinematography that was filmed in Nashville."
"Tennessee Me" offers a vintage approach to videography, which compliments the duo's 1940s and '50s-inspired sound. Similarly, their critically acclaimed debut album was recorded on analog, using just one microphone between the two. The Secret Sisters' sound captured on their debut has been described by Grammy winning producer T Bone Burnett as "as close to 'pure' as it gets, and I've been doing this for forty years." Determined to properly capture The Secret Sisters' magical harmonizing and stunning vocal power. The duo's signature sound is evident on songs such as the lilting anthem "Tennessee Me," among others. The bond between Laura and Lydia is as deep as "the Tennessee river in springtime" – one of their other favorite colloquialisms.
Neo-traditional is quite the buzz word these days in country music, an easy word to use to define the increasing number of bands that veer more towards country than towards pop. However, traditional is a tricky word, cover ever era from the twenties to the nineties with equal weight. It does not take into account a deliberate, willful desire to sound like specific artists in specific eras. For those artists we are left with the term Retro. For female artists, in country music, retro usually defines a tendency to emulate Patsy Cline in the fifties. The Secret Sisters are far from the first artists to fall into this category, following such footsteps as The Corn Sisters and Mandy Barnett. The Secret Sisters is filled with some Southern home-cooking that even the most jaded Yankee can appreciate, and their best days are in front of them.

The country trio Carter's Chord, (the sisters Becky, Emily, and Joanna Robertson) are out with their very first music video for their fourth single, "A Little Less Comfortable," which tells the story of someone longing to return a more exciting, unpredictable time in a relationship. The trio of sisters have delivered what very may well be their first real shot at a true radio hit as "A Little Less Comfortable" has everything that modern country radio seemingly wants out of their female singers. The lyric is relatable to a wide variety of listeners, while also having an inviting melody juxtaposed with fantastic harmonic vocals from the sisters. It's also a song that just works.
The mid-tempo ballad is about a relationship that's gone a little bit stale, as a couple that has gotten a little too comfortable with their relationship and finds the woman pleading to her husband to treat her a little bit more like he used to treat her. This is the kind of feeling that many people have in relationships, that stale or as Carter's Chord say, "comfortable" feeling that leads to one or both feeling like there's nothing but 'going through the motions' and rather than let that lead to the marriage or relationship becoming even more stale, she's pleading with her man to take the effort to make life "A Little Less Comfortable."
Carter's Chord sing that a marriage has grown a bit too predictable and hope for something "A Little Less Comfortable." Over a muted acoustic guitar, the music slowly gains momentum as a full band comes in, but things stay downbeat and reflective throughout. Emily tells about song: "People live pretty comfortably now with all of the amenities that the world has to offer, and you kind of ruin yourself with that. You don't ever go out and do something scary anymore. You don't step outside yourself and push the boundaries and live life as passionately anymore. So we're encouraging people to step outside themselves and live life a little less comfortable in every part of life: your relationships, your jobs, your family. We really believe in this song and believe in the message."
Carter's Chord are suffer through a safe but distant dinner date, stuck in a stale relationship, and long for a time when things were "A Little Less Comfortable" in their Kristin Barlowe-directed new video, which takes place in a Renaissance theme where a women just wants the attention of her man. With a sound that recalls classic country but is mixed with a more modern sound as well, they has really come on as of late. The music of Carter's Chord is steeped in tradition. The trio sisters bring their modern musical flair to a tradition that includes Outlaw country and the blues as well as roots rock to create a distinctive new rocking country that's all their own. This is the first time I truly have felt like they've got something that will be warmly embraced by country music radio stations throughout the country.