Zoiks! Online - Music. Stand-up. TV. Film. "Funny Name. Seriously Entertaining.": 3/1/11

"Watch Katy Perry's 'E.T.' Video (Featuring Kanye West)." - VIDEO

Following a week of alien abductions on katyperry.com and all her digital properties, Katy Perry’s “E.T.” epic sci-fi music video (featuring Kanye West) has descended upon the masses. The music video is directed by filmmaker Floria Sigismondi who has created clips for David Bowie, Björk, and Marilyn Manson and who most recently directed the critically acclaimed film The Runaways.

MTV Networks will launch a daylong celebration today across its multiple screens and platforms to commemorate the premiere of Katy Perry’s “E.T.” music video, including the broadcast premiere of the video on MTV at 7:53pm ET, followed by TeenNick’s premiere at 10:53pm ET. Beginning this morning, MTV and MTV Hits will feature Katy Perry video blocks. At noon, MTV.com, VH1.com and LogoTV.com will debut the video. MTV’s afternoon series “The Seven” will feature an exclusive interview with Katy at 5pm ET.

The broadcast premiere of the video on MTV at 7:53pm will include an exclusive introduction byKaty and MTV News’ Sway. Following the video premiere, MTV.com will feature a livestream event featuring Sway’s full interview with Katy on location in Europe, and fan reactions to the video. The next day, April 1, TeenNick, Logo and Tr3s will spotlight the video as part of TeenNick’s Obsess This musicblock, Logo’s NewNowNext PopLab and Tr3s’ “Fresca video”. VH1's Top 20 Countdown will spotlight the video on April 9 with a special intro by Katy herself. BET will also New Joint the video on April 1st marking the first time Katy has had a video featured on BET.

Beginning today, fans can also watch “E.T.” across the entire VEVO platform, including VEVO.com, VEVO Mobile (iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, Android), VEVO connected devices (Google TV, Boxee) and on VEVO syndication sites like AOL, BET, CBS Interactive Music Group (including Last.fm), Univision and YouTube.

“E.T.” is the fourth single off Katy’s Grammy-nominated album Teenage Dream that hit No. 1 on the iTunes chart. The album, which has been nominated for Album of the Year Grammy, Best International Album Brit Award and just won a Juno for Best International Album boasts the previous three singles, “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream,” and “Firework” which all peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Katy the first female artist in 11 years to score three No. 1 singles from one album.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

"Cake To Premiere New Animated Video For 2nd Single 'Long Time' On MTVU & MTV2."

CAKE is pleased to announce the release of the visually stunning animated music video for "Long Time," the second single from their critically lauded new set Showroom of Compassion, out January 11, 2011. The video will premiere March 31 on MTVU and MTV2 as part of their Indie Music Month before moving into regular rotation.

Debuting at #1 on the Billboard Top 200, the album continues to receive acclaim with recent appearances on NPR's "All Things Considered" as well as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Lopez Tonight, Conan, The Late Show with Jimmy Fallon and more. Meanwhile, their first single "Sick Of You" remained a Top 5 hit at both Alternative and Triple A radio for ten weeks.

The band recently wrapped up a headlining tour that sold out within minutes of being announced. The dates took them across the U.S., connecting them with their ceaselessly loyal fan base that have supported the band's live performances since the release of their first album in 1993. CAKE will head back out in mid-April for another string of sold out dates, kicking off April 14 in Washington D.C. with stops in New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago and more.

The buzz continues with "Long Time," which is already making a big impact at radio. The animated music video was created by French production company Callicore Films, an art studio that focuses on CG Art and the resistance against "the cultural dictatorship of media" - a perfect match for CAKE. Founded by distinguished French artist Laurent Mercier and his partners Linda Mercier and Xavier Semen, Callicore has worked with John Lee Hooker Jr., Arrested Development, The Buzzcocks, Marky Ramon and more. Their collaboration with CAKE resulted in the beautifully moving video for "Long Time," a work of art in both storytelling and computer graphics.

"When we heard 'Long Time' we were extremely excited to create an animated video production for the song," said Linda from their studio in Paris. "We have been following CAKE since the beginning and are big fans. The melody and lyrics of 'Long Time' brought us a multitude of choices, and together with the band we created a story of a vagabond and his monkey." Adds Laurent, "No concession. No compromise. Just one direction. That sums up both Callicore and CAKE - the story goes with 'Long Time,' the metaphor of a vagabond sentenced because he didn't follow the same road as others."

Cake - Music - More Music Videos

Released on CAKE's own Upbeat Records, Showroom Of Compassion is their first record of new material since the release of Pressure Chief seven years ago and marks the band's first Number One album in their nearly two decades of existence. The album has been met by enthusiasm from both fans and critics alike, with the Los Angeles Times raving that Showroom shows CAKE is "in toned condition, turning out polished compositions that could fit in with its classic catalog" and Entertainment Weekly awarding the album a rock-solid B+, declaring Showroomas "remarkably fresh." CAKE is John McCrea, Vincent DiFiore, Xan McCurdy and Gabriel Nelson.

In addition, CAKE can now add bookmaking to their list of accomplishments. The lyrics to "Bound Away", from the new album, were chosen as the subject and title of a limited edition handmade book, which includes a disc of the single. In creating Bound Away, the members of CAKE worked under the artistic direction of San Francisco book artist Pam DeLuco on every step of the production process, including design, typesetting, linoleum carving, letterpress printing, paper-making and book binding. Recycled and reclaimed materials are used throughout the book, including the band's old 100% cotton t-shirts and denim jeans for the cover paper. Bound Away, lyrics written by John McCrea, and performed by CAKE with Illustrations by Rigel Stuhmiller, will be available on http://www.cakemusic.com/.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

"Gold Motel's debut album 'Summer House' blends Blondie with Diana Ross."

Gold Motel’s debut album “Summer House” is fused with a ‘60s dance influence that captures today’s musical climate. The 10-track effort highlights front woman Greta Morgan’s life work that sees similarities from Blondie to Motown legends like Diana Ross.

Morgan began writing music at an early age and “Summer House” is the result of all that hard work. Although there is an apparent retro pop vibe to Gold Motel’s sound, Morgan and company nicely blend together today’s culture of dance, pop and rock that will engage fans of all ages.

Top to bottom “Summer House” is solid. It flows perfectly into each song and there are multiple hits waiting to happen. Songs like “Perfect (In My Mind),” “Safe in L.A.,” and the title track, “Summer House,” should find regular play, especially with the summer season approaching.

I really love this album. I tend to favor rock albums but Gold Motel knows how to put together catchy melodies and contagious pop hooks. The only obstacle I see that stands in the band’s way is the current musical landscape that includes Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, to the other side of the spectrum, Avenged Sevenfold and Disturbed.

If Gold Motel can put a dent in my musical vocabulary, I don’t see Morgan and company having a problem finding a niche in the lives of other fans. Give “Summer House” a chance and you’ll find that the music will win you over.

Tracklisting:

We’re On The Run
Perfect (In My Mind)
Safe In L.A.
Stealing The Moonlight
Fireworks After Midnight
Don’t Send The Searchlights
Make Me Stay
The Cruel One
Who Will I Be Tonight
Summer House

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

High Fidelity is the Greatest Movie Soundtrack Ever

"The making of a compilation tape is a very subtle art. Lots of do's and don'ts. First of all you are using someone else's poetry to express how you feel." Rob "High Fidelity."

The folks who turned author Nick Hornby's soulful, heartfelt; paean to a record store owner and the near end of his most significant relationship took those words deeply to heart as they crafted my favorite movie soundtrack of all time for the movie "High Fidelity."

Full story at AssociatedContent.com

Sean Patrick Kernan is a film critic. Check him out at: http://www.myspace.com/number1ramjamfan Email Sean at sean@zoiksonline.com.

Scarlett Johansson Nude Photo Hacked from iPhone. So, Where is it?

I find it funny that hackers don't use their knowledge of breaking into computer systems for things that will benefit them financially – such as hacking into a bank and slowly wiring funds to separate accounts so it doesn't look conspicuous.

When I learned that Scarlett Johansson's iPhone was hacked to obtain a nude photo of her, I realized that being a hacker was serious business. It wasn't about money; rather it was about seeing one of the most beautiful women on Earth naked.

Sure, $20 million is worth prison time, but a nude photo of Scarlett Johansson? Hell, lock me up and throw away the key.

Johansson, along with Vanessa Hudgens, Miley Cyrus, Ali Larter and nearly 50 other celebrities, were all victims of a hacker (or hackers) that apparently know something the public doesn't – these women may have nude photos of themselves on their phones and/or computers.

A week ago, Vanessa Hudgens was the latest celebrity whose nude photos surfaced on the Internet. Those photos traveled far and wide on the web and if you Google "Vanessa Hudgens Leaked Photos" I'm sure they'll pop up early and often. You might get the ones from 2009 but the result will still be the same.

I haven't physically seen Johansson's, so if you have it, please email it to me so I can confirm this story (hey, I need to do research, don't I?). Hudgens has since talked to the FBI about the matter, and Johansson, according to TMZ, has officials baffled on why she was targeted. Hello! She's Scarlett Johansson.

However, I wonder if hackers are really interested in hacking into Johansson's iPhone to see if she's getting bribed to date Sean Penn. WTF is that all about? That answer alone is probably worth prison time without parole.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

Preview: Grey's Anatomy: The Musical Event

Grey’s Anatomy fans are in for an emotional roller coaster Thursday March 31st at 9 Pm eastern, 8 Pm central when Song Beneath the Song: The Grey's Anatomy Musical Event, airs on ABC. Fans have been anticipating this episode featuring the cast singing the songs we’ve come to know so well from past Grey’s Anatomy soundtracks, since the start of the season when creator Shondra Rhimes began teasing the idea for a musical episode.

Sean Patrick Kernan is a film critic. Check him out at: http://www.myspace.com/number1ramjamfan Email Sean at sean@zoiksonline.com.

Top 5 Moments from American Idol "Elton John Night"

After last week’s dramatic save, American Idol returned this week with a challenge to the Top 11, the music of Elton John and two eliminations on the line. Who came ready to sing? Here is your top five moments from this week’s American Idol.

Sean Patrick Kernan is a film critic. Check him out at: http://www.myspace.com/number1ramjamfan Email Sean at sean@zoiksonline.com.

Michael Franti “I’ll Be Waiting” Video Premiere.

Michael Franti just premiered the touching video for his new single, “I’ll Be Waiting.” In the video, Franti takes us on an emotional rollercoaster telling the story of the song through a number of perspectives, including a tearful homecoming for a soldier.

Be sure to also check out this video of Franti talking about the meaning behind the song. Fans can pick up “I’ll Be Waiting” featured on Franti’s latest album The Sound of Sunshine on iTunes now!

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

Justin Bieber and Ashton Kutcher to star in same movie. Are we getting Punk’d?

The report out of ContactMusic.com is that Justin Bieber and Ashton Kutcher will appear in a movie together. The movie called "What Would Kenny Do?" is not set to start filming in 2012 but the premise is this: "The 17-year-old pop star will reportedly play a teenager who meets and is guided through high school by his thirty-something-year-old self (Ashton), who comes back from the future."

What's interesting to me is that Ashton Kutcher is playing Justin Bieber in the future, and vice versa. Talk about perfect casting. This movie should generate great buzz as Hollywood is taking two of entertainment's golden boys and plopping them in a film together. How else can you create revenue when the premise if pretty ridiculous?

This news comes off the heels of Kutcher expressing interest in bringing back his practical joke show "Punk'd" with a different host. Kutcher reportedly wanted to bring the show back with Justin Bieber playing Kutcher's role. "I really can't talk about it because everything's sort of in process. It's a possibility that it could be happening. I will not be hosting the show in the future. People were afraid I was going to punk them wherever I went and I'm starting to get invited to stuff again and it's actually a good thing. I'll be involved in some capacity if we do it and there could be a new host but I can't say a whole lot."

So, the new prank show, which would include Bieber playing Kutcher's part, is in the works? And the movie where Kutcher plays Bieber in the future is in the works too? Isn't Kutcher playing Bieber on "Punk'd" if Bieber would continue the show years after Kutcher did it?

WTF?

Is there really a movie called "What Would Kenny Do?" or are we getting punk'd? It's the same thing!

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

Thanks Crappy Cup of Coffee! - Humor Column

As a "young" mother of two I can tell you two things are certain and necessary in my mornings: 1) there will be havoc and 2) I will need coffee to deal with the havoc being reeked. In general I am able to get my children out of bed and in the car without any help. So the task on paper is a success. It's the process that isn't always a joy. I got my 9 month old daughter out of bed, fed, and dressed, A.O.K. It was when I woke my 2 year old son up that our routine became interesting. He's potty training you see. I took him to the bathroom sat him on the toilet (which is enormous compared to the size of my son, his legs don't even dangle, they get splayed out and his ankles rest on the edges of the seat, that's how little he is in comparison).

While he was attempting to go potty my daughter decided to make things interesting! First by trying to pull the night light out of the electrical socket. That was the first time I screamed NO! I was holding my son's dangling butt over the toilet so I couldn't physically stop her! My only means of stopping her was to scream and startle her with a good loud NO! Then she swiftly crawled into the bathroom and started to go for my sons night time pull up (which was saturated with urine) so she could play with it. That was NO number two. Each time I yelled NO my son nearly had a heart attack of course. And this all made it hard for him to find his chi, or center if you will, and go potty.

Fast forward five minutes and we are all now in my son's room waiting for him to pick out the 'big boy underwear' of his choosing. This, at least for him, is a huge undertaking. I'm not sure what he needs to consider when choosing his daily undies, but there must be a long check list of criteria he goes over in his head before deciding on which pair. I thought it would be a good idea to get him a plethora of underwear: Lightning McQueen, Mater, The Incredibles, Nemo, Wall-E, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and I think even Rex from Toy Story has his own pair. So we all sit waiting... my boy in only a shirt, sitting bare assed on the floor... when finally he decides! EUREKA!

Fast forward another five minutes and I'm loading up the car with various bags while my son eats his granola bar, my dog eats the crumbs he's dropping on the carpet and my daughter has her entire upper torso inside our entertainment center and is pushing all the buttons on my cable box.

Fast forward to daycare drop off time! I drop off my daughter, wave goodbye as she begins to climb on top of an infant and take his chew toy. Then take my son to his pre-school room, get him to go potty AGAIN, give him a sticker, take him to the breakfast table and proceed to attempt to pry his clinging body from mine. After some reasoning, haggling, bribing, and a small amount of whimpering I finally hit the jackpot with some promissory personal time and was able to leave.

However, just before I hit the door I was reminded by my son's teacher that today was a field trip day! Super. And they would be needing his car seat. Cut to me, in the back seat, trying to rip the car seat out of my car. Until this moment I had only a subtle amount of faith in my husband's ability to install a car seat. Now I realize he's a GD champ! I did get the car seat out after a fair amount of violent pulling, wiggling, shaking my car back and forth, cussing, and the realization that all I needed to do was press a small white button next to the clasp-thing. The seat was free and I was on my way!

Fast forward to me, alone, in my car. I have 7 minutes to get to work. It's a 12 minute trip. I want a cup of GOOD coffee. But I have no time. So I plod on to work, once there I go back to the kitchen hoping in vain that someone who is capable has made the pot of coffee. Of course not. It's nearly clear when I pour it into my cup. It's a beige color with the small amount of cream I've put in it. As I taste it there is a hint of coffee there. You can tell that at some point in the coffee making process a small amount of hot-ass water possibly ran over a bit of one ground up coffee bean. There are notes of coffee there. It's ever so faint though. A dog might have issues discerning what this liquid is apart from just hot water.

So it is with my piping hot cup of water-coffee that I begin my day! I am truly blessed!

BYLINE:

Bry Schulz is a writer, photographer, mother, and fashion fanatic. When she's not judging you for what you wear she is reading a good book. For book, photography, or fashion reviews email Bry at bry@zoiksonline.com.

Natalia Kills Teaser Trailer for “Wonderland” Video and Album Sampler.

Never one to shy away from controversy, Natalia Kills is creating quite a stir with the epic teaser trailer for her new video, “Wonderland.” The full video will premiere early next month. Natalia Kills’ U.S. debut, Perfectionist, featuring “Wonderland” will drop this summer. In the meantime, fans can check out a sampler of the album now.

Natalia Kills can also be heard on Far East Movement’s song, “2 Is Better (ft. Natalia Kills & Ya Boy),” available on iTunes now! And, be sure to check out the video for “2 Is Better” on VEVO.

For the latest updates on Natalia Kills check out her brand new site http://www.nataliakills.com/.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

“The ‘American Idol’ Front Runners Start to Take Shape”

Two weeks ago I thought “American idol” was miserable, last week I thought it was amazing. This week the front runners started to stand out among the rest. This week the Idols took on Elton John one of the greatest artists of all time. The problem with Elton John, he’s gay…not really, the problem with Elton John is that he has so many songs that are untouchable, specifically I’m thinking of “Candle in the Wind,” “Tiny Dancer,” and “Your Song.” Unfortunately all three were attempted last night however two Idols actually pulled it off.

Scott McCreery: Scotty took on “Country Comfort,” because it had the word country in it. Look McCreery is going to be a country music star; I have no doubt in my mind. Let’s vote him out now so he can get started.

Naima Adedapo: Naima did a reggae version of “I’m Standing Still.” It was ok I guess. She was off key a lot like she usually is. She’s a great performer though. Her voice however is keeping her at best in the middle of the pack. When she stands out vocally, it’s for the wrong reasons.

Paul McDonald: Paul sang “Rocket Man.” Just before singing they played a clip of him saying that his band once covered “Rocket Man” and they was a disaster. I didn’t like last nights version either, but I’m not a fan of that folk rock type of music.

Pia Toscano: Randy told Pia to change it up and lay off the ballads. Funny he hasn’t told Scott McCreery to change it up. Pia sang a ballad, “Don’t Let the Sun (Go Down on Me).” Again she nailed it. Idol judge Steven Tyler, who has had fans tell him to stop singing ballads for years and make another “Rocks” or “Toys in the Attic,” told Pia that she just proved Randy wrong. The problem with Pia is that she’s not performing. She’s just standing very still singing. It is getting boring. Hopefully she starts to move a little more.

Stefano Langone: Stefano is probably going home. He tried “Tiny Dancer.” At the end of the song Stefano reached his hand out in a very corny way to Jennifer Lopez and Randy and Steven just started laughing at him. The performance was terrible. Stefano didn’t stick with Elton’s melody and brought his own “flavor” to the melody, but the flavor was not good.

Lauren Alaina: The new front runner? When I saw she was singing “Candle in the Wind” I immediately started thinking, “no don’t do that.” But she not only nailed it, she made it her own with a country twist to it that could be a legitimate hit for her. It was Carrie Underwood good. It was a bold move and probably the best performance of the night for me.

James Durbin: Mr. Consistency predictably took on “Saturday’s Alright for Fighting.” His performance was over the top. He ripped a page out of the Jimi Hendrix book of tricks and started a piano on fire. Again he nailed it, but he still has yet to have that moment. If he can have the kind of moment that Lauren had this week with “Candle in the Wind” then he’s got this competition wrapped up. If not he still might have this competition wrapped up. Adam Lambert fans, what do you think about James now?

Thia Megia: Thia performed “Daniel” and bored me to tears. Not that it was bad, it was fine, it was just kind of boring. She could be in danger due to the forget ability factor.

Casey Abrams: Casey was voted out last week. Casey is one of my favorites. He looks like Seth Rogen, but when he sings he has an Eddie Vedder like intensity to him. Sometimes he loses control of that intensity and it gets messy. This week he trimmed it down, literally by trimming his hair and beard. He did “Your Song” and while not as good as Lauren still pulled off a solid performance that may keep him safe for a couple of weeks.

Jacob Lusk: Last weeks front runner was this weeks dud. Lusk belongs on Broadway not here. Before he hit the stage they played a clip of Jimmy Lovine telling Jacob Lusk not to be too dramatic. His performance couldn’t have been any more dramatic. It was terrible. He’s great, just like Scotty, but they both should be somewhere else, not “American Idol.”

Haley Reinhart: Hailey did “Benny and the Jets” and I was wondering how she was going to pull that song off. She had a moment. They only thing bad about the song was the “buh buh buh” before “Benny and the Jets.” Steven Tyler told her that she sang “Sexy” and she did. Between Hailey and Lauren, those were the two with the stand out performances. Those were also the two to get inappropriate comments from my personal idol Steven Tyler. Earlier in the show Tyler told Lauren that is she keeps singing like that she’ll “have enough money to buy the rest of that dress.”

The stand outs at this point are James Durbin, Haley Reinhart and Lauren Alaina. Everyone else is trailing Pia and Casey have the ability to catch them, but the rest are too one dimensional, not just one dimensional, but an uninteresting one dimensional.

BYLINE:

Bob Zerull is the Managing Editor of Zoiks! Online. He writes pop culture commentary, does interviews with bands, and reviews music and stand-up concerts. He also administers Zoiks! Online's Facebook page. Follow Bob on twitter at bzerull. Email Bob at bob@zoiksonline.com.

"Sum 41 Secret Show This Friday In Hollywood."

Yes, you read that correctly people. Sum 41, whose new album Screaming Bloody Murder was just released, will be performing a MySpace Secret Show this Friday April 1st, 2011, at Boardner's in Hollywood CA. The Canadian punk-rock crew will be joined by Kemble Walters and the Blank Faces.

The show is All Ages and doors are at 7:30 pm, but once the venue is full you’ll be out of luck. So be sure to get there early! If you can’t make it out, or don’t live in California, the entire show will be streaming live on Myspace Music, and viewable on iPad and iPod. So, be sure to log on Friday night to check out all the action.

For all the latest updates from Sum 41 make sure to visit their Official Website, as well as their Facebook and Myspace pages. Don't forget to pick up your copy of Screaming Bloody Murder in stores or on iTunes today!

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

Christina Aguilera Gives Oral Sex to Banana. – Adult Only Photo

Christina Aguilera is in the news again for pictures that probably should not be leaked to the Internet. This time around, Aguilera reportedly “forgot” her camera’s memory card in a French hotel room she was staying at.

An article online suggests the photos “show the singer in various intimate situations, including at Nicole Richie’s bachelorette party, and in bed with her new boyfriend Matthew Rutler.”

There are hundreds of photos of Aguilera, some steamy with boyfriend, some dancing on a table, and some of the diva giving oral sex to a banana. RadarOnline.com is reported to have been offered the photos, so give it time and I’m sure these pictures will come to light.

Since her divorce from her husband, Aguilera has been in the news negatively regarding a public intoxication arrest and photos of her semi-nude. A few years back Aguilera was the good one and Britney Spears was the crazy one. Oh how tables have turned.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

“K’naan to perform at all-star Hope Rising! benefit concert featuring Alicia Keys.”

Juno Award-winning artist and humanitarian activist K'naan joins the multi-talented roster for the benefit concert Hope Rising!, presented by CIBC on Tuesday, May 3 at The Sony Centre. K'naan will perform alongside Alicia Keys, Rufus Wainwright, Angélique Kidjo, Holly Cole, Jully Black and others at this first annual event, which benefits the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

The Somali-born, Toronto musician has seen first-hand the devastation wrought by AIDS in Africa. His eloquent, thought-provoking lyrics blend political activism and call for change with addictive beats and melodies, resulting in music that goes well beyond a traditional hip-hop perspective.

"I think that organizations are a reflection of people's intent. Having met Stephen Lewis, I believe in what he's trying to do and what his organization is doing," said K'naan, about his motivation for participating in the event.

K'naan made a powerful mark on the music world with his breakthrough debut (The Dusty Foot Philosopher) and sophomore (Troubadour) albums. He was instantly declared an "Artist to Watch" by Rolling Stone, NPR, the Los Angeles Times and MTV.

He was most recently honored at this year's Juno Awards for the Young Artists for Haiti version of his smash hit Wavin' Flag, which nabbed the coveted Single of The Year prize. His previous awards include the Junos for Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year in 2010.

K'naan recently took time off from recording his new album to join Stephen Lewis and other advocates on Parliament Hill to support Bill C-393, legislation to help get affordable, critical medicines to people that need it the most, such as life-prolonging drugs for AIDS.

"CIBC is very proud to partner with the Stephen Lewis Foundation to present Hope Rising!, which brings some of the best musicians and entertainers from Canada and around the world together to shine a spotlight on a very important issue," said Stephen Forbes, CIBC's Executive Vice-President of Marketing, Communications & Public Affairs.

Jian Ghomeshi of Q (CBC Radio One and bold TV), Marci Ien of CTV, and Canadian actress Gloria Reuben will co-host, with additional performances by Da Kink in my Hair cast members Ngozi Paul, d'bi Young and Ordena Stephens; and grandmothers from South Africa and Swaziland.

A pre-show dinner and discussion, The Globe and Mail Roundtable: Philanthropy for Hope and Impact, features Harry Belafonte, actor, musician and humanitarian; Stephen Lewis, former United Nations Special Envoy for AIDS in Africa; and Jessica Horn, international expert on donor support for human rights. The small group of special guests will enjoy dinner and a discussion about philanthropy's concrete and powerful impact on the AIDS pandemic in Africa. A limited number of VIP tickets are still available, which includes premium concert seating, pre-show dinner and roundtable, and access to the official after party.

A new block of $75 tickets has been released – on sale now!

Purchase tickets through Ticketmaster, by phone at 1.855.872.7669, or in person at The Sony Centre box office.

“Art of Dying’s ‘Vices and Virtues’ Debuts at Number 1.”

Art of Dying, the Vancouver rock band signed to Disturbed's Reprise Records imprint Intoxication Records, have entered Billboard's Heatseekers chart at #1 and the Top 200 at #116 with their major-label debut Vices and Virtues. The lead single off the album, "Die Trying," was last week's featured iTunes "Single Of The Week". The standard version of Vices and Virtues is specially priced for iTunes at the discovery price of $7.99 for another week. Vices and Virtues is also available at physical retailers including FYE and Best Buy.

Art of Dying, which is vocalist/lyricist Jonny Hetherington, guitarist Greg Bradley, guitarist Tavis Stanley, bassist Cale Gontier, and drummer Jeff Brown, hit the road last week for the first annual Avalanche Tour with Stone Sour, Theory Of A Deadman, Skillet, and Halestorm. Please visit www.AvalancheTour.com for details.

Fans can win free tickets to see Art Of Dying on the Avalanche Tour here: http://artofdying.warnerreprise.com/artofdying. Winners (who are selected at random) will receive two free tickets to a show.

Produced by Howard Benson (Papa Roach, Three Doors Down), Vices and Virtues expresses Art of Dying's energy and vitality with a blend of urgent, blaring guitar rhythms, atmospheric and transcendent counter melodies, and vocal harmonies that complement the heaviness of the music. Uptempo songs like "Die Trying" and "Straight Across my Mind" reverberate with the triumphant spirit of a raised fist, while tracks such as the acoustic-based "I Will Be There," "Best I Can," and "Raining" (which features guest vocals by Three Days Grace frontman Adam Gontier) are more reflective and vulnerable, revealing the pain of imperfect relationships and the redemption that lies within their repair.

Simple Plan Unveils New Track in Two Years.

Atlantic recording group Simple Plan has unveiled their new song, "Can't Keep My Hands Off You." The track – co-written and featuring guest vocals by Rivers Cuomo – made its premiere and can be heard in its entirety at Entertainment Weekly's EW.com today (http://bit.ly/hpq9fQ). While not an official single, the song is the first full track revealed from the multi-platinum band's forthcoming studio album, and is available for purchase exclusively at the Montreal-based band's official website, www.SimplePlan.com.

Simple Plan's first new music in over two years, "Can't Keep My Hands Off You" will also be featured in Walt Disney Pictures' upcoming film, Prom, which arrives in theatres nationwide on April 29th (www.disney.com/Prom). A companion music video is set for production in Los Angeles later this week, with a premiere date to be announced shortly.

As noted, "Can't Keep My Hands Off You" will also be included on the Simple Plan's eagerly awaited fourth studio album, which is slated for release on June 21st. Produced by Brian Howes (Boys Like Girls, Skillet, Hinder), the as-yet-untitled collection arrives in conjunction with the band's featured role on this year's Vans Warped Tour. The dates kicks off June 24th at Dallas' Gexa Energy Pavilion and then continue through late July. For more touring information, please visit http://vanswarpedtour.com. Further album details will be announced shortly.

Simple Plan has earned widespread acclaim and a global fan following for their inventive, genre-defying blend of classic punk energy and modern pop sonics. Since coming together nearly a decade ago, the Montreal-based combo has achieved worldwide sales in excess of 7 million, with releases including 2002's RIAA 2x-platinum debut, "NO PADS, NO HELMETS…JUST BALLS," 2004's platinum-certified follow-up, "STILL NOT GETTING ANY," and 2005's "MTV HARD ROCK LIVE."

The band's most recent album, 2008's "SIMPLE PLAN," proved an international blockbuster upon its release, reaching the #1 spot on the iTunes Store's "Top Pop Albums" chart while also scoring top 3 successes in Mexico, Brazil, Japan, and the band's native Canada. Furthermore, the album premiered in the top 10 in such far-away lands as Hong Kong, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, Australia, and Germany, with top 20 debuts in Spain, Finland, and France.

Simple Plan is: Pierre Bouvier – vocals; Chuck Comeau – drums; David Desrosiers – bass, backing vocals; Sebastien Lefebvre – guitar, backing vocals; Jeff Stinco – lead guitar.

For up-to-the-minute news and information, please visit www.simpleplan.com.

“Pearl Jam Releases ‘VS.’ and ‘Vitalogy’ Reissues.”

Pearl Jam just released expanded and restored editions of their classic 2nd and 3rd studio albums, VS. and Vitalogy. Both albums broke all initial Soundscan records and secured the band's reputation as a preeminent force in American rock music.

Vs. and Vitalogy are now available in new Expanded Editions (featured three bonus tracks on each) or together in a three-disc Deluxe Edition (featuring Live at the Orpheum Theater, Boston, April 12, 1994) and Limited Edition Collector's Box Set. Each album will also be released in new commemorative re-mastered vinyl editions on April 12th to coincide with Record Store Day 2011.

This week Sirius/XM's Pearl Jam station will be featuring VS. and Vitalogy all week long on Sirius channel 17 and XM channel 39. Hear a special episode of "The All Encompassing Trip" with producer Brendan O'Brien Mon 3/28 at 6pm ET. Brendan returns on Wed 3/30 at 6pm ET as a Guest DJ. And hear full concerts from the Vs. and Vitalogy tours, including the 1994 show from Boston's Orpheum Theater on Tue 3/29 at 8pm ET, plus bonus material from the new re-mastered albums all week long!

“Theophilus London Debuts Video for ‘Why Even Try’ on MTV.”

MTV has the worldwide premiere of Theophilus London's new video for "Why Even Try." "Why Even Try" is the lead single off the Brooklyn rapper, songwriter and producer's debut EP, Lovers Holiday and features additional vocals from Sara Quin of Tegan and Sara.

The video will debut on MTV, MTV2, MTVu, MTV Jams and MTV.com and has been added to regular rotation at both MTV2 and MTVu. "Why Even Try" is the follow up video to the sexy, seductive, Solange Knowles assisted "Flying Overseas." Theophilus recently played a special show at NYC's Webster Hall as part of MTV's "Live In NYC" series that is slated to debut on MTV.com April 5th.

The Lovers Holiday EP is out now and serves as a taste of what's to come on his debut full length album, which will be released later this year on Warner Bros. Records. Theophilus celebrated this past Lovers Holiday (Valentine's Day) with his network TV debut, performing "Why Even Try" with Sara on the Late Show with David Letterman.

“Founder and Lead Vocalist of Godsmack, Sully Erna, Announces New Solo Tour in Support of ‘Avalon!’”

Sully Erna, best known as the lead singer of Godsmack, will be hitting the road this May in support of his debut solo album “Avalon.” The tour kicks off in Concord, NH on May 13TH.

The show will feature Erna as part of an eight-piece ensemble band. "I'm very excited to bring Avalon to the road…It's a trip down the rabbit hole into a world of beautiful scenery, world cultures, and amazing cinematic visuals that will leave you breathless at times.”

After finding success as the lead singer and songwriter of the critically acclaimed rock band Godsmack, Erna branched out to release his solo debut “Avalon,” a different sound and departure from the rock icon status of Godsmack. The record was met with great success, reaching #24 on the Billboard 200 and #9 on Billboard Rock Albums. It features an array of eclectic compositions unlike anything he has ever written in the past, an epic body of work that took him over two years to compose, record and finally release. Utilizing the hypnotic sounds of tribal rhythms, melodic pianos and cellos and haunting vocals, “Avalon” also features the accompanying vocals of Lisa Guyer, as well as the hand percussion of Niall Gregory from renowned band Dead Can Dance.

“It's a boundless sonic trip that touches on every element of the human condition via haunting piano, tribal percussion, and darkly hypnotic vocals. Avalon is the ultimate aural ride, and it's bound to affect anyone who opens up to it.” – Artist Direct

Tour Dates:
May 13 Concord, NH Capitol Theatre
May 14 Wilkes-Barre, PA Kirby Center
May 15 Syracuse, NY Crouse Hinds Concert Theatre
May 17 Boston Wilbur Theatre
May 18 Bridgeport, CT The Klein Memorial Auditorium
May 19 New York Grand Ballroom @ Manhattan Center
May 21 New Bedford, MA Zeiterion Theatre
May 22 Albany, NY The Egg
June 1 Lawrence, KS Liberty Hall
June 3 Detroit Motor City Casino
June 4 Columbus LC Pavilion
June 10 Atlantic City Music Box

MORE DATES TO BE ADDED SOON!

BYLINE:

Enrique Iglesias’s Ego Too Much for Britney Spears. Drops Out of Tour.

There will not be an Enrique Iglesias/Britney Spears tour after all. Dang!!!!!! I was so waiting for this.

TMZ reports that Iglesias is pulling out of the tour because his "ego" would not allow him to be an opener for Spears. "Britney and Enrique were hammering out an agreement for weeks, and the terms were finessed to make Enrique appear to be a co-headliner."

However, just before Spears' camp was going to publicly promote this tour (I'm still upset about this), Iglesias pulled out because what appeared to be a co-headliner position, actually was an opening act.

When you say the names Enrique Iglesias and Britney Spears, the natural thought would be that Spears is headlining this tour with special guest Iglesias. But since this is too much of a stretch, Iglesias had to back out.

What's funny is that Enrique's father, Julio, is an international superstar. Is Enrique going to pull out of this family because of his "ego?" I'd love to see that. "Dad, you're too famous. I'm out. My new father is George Lopez."

My question is why couldn't Iglesias and Spears alternate headlining?

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

"Amy Black Sophomore Album 'One Time' Available Today."

Singer/songwriter Amy Black releases her sophomore album entitled One Time today, March 29, 2011. After a decade of success in the business world, Black is taking a chance and following her music dreams with this new release. The rootsy collection of revealing and authentic tunes was recorded with producer, Lorne Entress (Lori McKenna, Bittertown). Available digitally, the album’s foundation is a traditional American roots sound but it’s not without a dash of rock and soul. “My goal was to create music that successfully merged the acoustic and electric instrumentation that I love,” says Black. “I tend to be drawn to a classic sound and paid my respects to some of the great music of the past when I wrote this album.”

Black worked with Entress to bring the perfect cast of characters together – top-notch musicians, including singer/songwriter Mark Erelli on vocals, guitar and lap steel and Nashville’s favorite fiddle player, Stuart Duncan. With Entress’ guidance the players have created a rich and compelling album. The music spotlights traditional roots instruments like Dobro, fiddle, mandolin, pedal steel and upright bass as well as the smooth and classic sounds of the electric guitar. “Making One Time was an incredible experience for me,” says Black. “As happy as I am to get the music out there, I’m also sad that the creation process is over. My favorite part of making this record was witnessing these incredible musicians doing what they do best. I can’t wait to get back in the studio with them again.”

In her debut album Amy Black & The Red Clay Rascals, Amy paid tribute to her favorite songwriters. With One Time, Amy’s powerful voice and presence are matched by the commanding range of her own song writing as seen in the nine originals on the album. The characters in “Molly” and “Whiskey And Wine” ache with bittersweet yearning in a world of pleasure and pain. “All My Love” simmers with seduction, while “Meet Me On The Dance Floor” is a flirty delight. “Stay”, featuring harmony vocals by Amy’s little sister Corrie Jones, swings with grown-up romance and “Run Johnny” crackles with bluesy menace.

“This album is really a tribute to my southern roots and is dedicated to my Granddad who grew up dirt poor in Alabama,” says Black. After putting himself through college, Black’s grandfather worked for the Tennessee Valley Authority for decades before pursuing his dream of starting his own business. This can-do tenacity along with a flare for storytelling, are traits passed along to Black. “He was a bit of a showman and I think I got that from him,” says Black. “He passed away during the production of the album and I’m proud to honor him with this music.”

In the album’s potent title track, "One Time," the plaintive lyric “Time for you to make a break/And show what you’re good for” could describe Black’s bold step with this new release. “I decided a few years back that it was now or never,” says Black. “I love music way too much to sit on the side lines. You only get one chance at this life, and I’m taking mine.” For more information or to purchase the album visit http://www.amyblack.com/.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

"Win a Trip to the 2011 MTV Movie Awards." - Contest

XFINITY and MTV want to send 1 winner and 3 friends to the 2011 MTV Movie Awards in Los Angeles, California. Experience the annual award show like never before by not only winning free passes to the show, but passes to movie screenings, press events, and celebrity parties. Grand prize includes luxury hotel accommodations, round-trip airfare, and a Movie Awards gift bag which includes an HD flipcam and digital camera.

All you have to do to enter is head to the XFINITY4COLLEGE Facebook page (http://on.fb.me/mtvxa11), upload a short video explaining you should be picked to win, include your name, and tell your friends to come and vote for your video.

Voting is open from April 11-29. With all the great movies out in the past year, you won't want to miss your opportunity to live like a star for this Hollywood weekend!

Secondary prizing includes DVDs of nominated films, Blu-ray players, and more movie swag. Don't waste any time. Create your video now, start telling your friends, and enter now for your shot to win. You never know what you'll win just from uploading your short video. Contest ends May 4th, 2011.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

PROTECTING CONDOM FROM THE CONDOMS – HUMOR COLUMN

If you've ever used a product called "The Original Condom from Condom, France," you may be disappointed to discover that the condom did not really come from Condom. It came from Malaysia, a country that produces a large portion of the world's rubber and, apparently, a large portion of the world's rubbers.

Though the company that makes "The Original Condom" is headquartered in the southwestern French town of Condom, the townspeople wanted to cut themselves off from any connection to condoms. And so they got together, had a vote and changed the town's name to Vasectomy.

Actually, they didn't change the town's name, but put the town's lawyer to work instead. She convinced a nearby court to ban use of the brand "The Original Condom from Condom, France." According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), the judge stated in his ruling that "it is clear that the use of the name, the image and the renown of the town of Condom, without its knowledge, for entirely commercial ends (is) manifestly illicit."

It would be like making a jam in China and selling it under the brand "The Original Jam from Jamshedpur, India." Or selling water from Jamshedpur under the brand "The Original Water from Watertown, Massachusetts." Very deceptive indeed.

I wanted to go a little deeper and find out more about Condom, so I made a call to Bernard Gallard, the mayor of Condom.

Me: "I hope you won't mind some of the questions I'm going to ask, Mr. Gallard. Many of my readers have never been in Condom and are eager to know what it's like down there. But let me start by asking you about your job. What's it like to be mayor of Condom?"

Gallard: "No different from other mayors, I suppose. I have my ups and downs."

Me: "Did you always want to be the head of Condom?"

Gallard: "Not always, but for a few years now. It's a very demanding job. The people have put their trust in me. I have to make many important decisions that determine the success or failure of Condom."

Me: "Trust me, Mr. Gallard, you're not the only one who worries about Condom failure. But I'm sure you're more knowledgeable than most men. I'm sure you don't need any instructions on Condom management."

Gallard: "Thank you for saying so. I'm proud of my record. I feel that I've left my mark on Condom. I've taken Condom to places it's never been before."

Me: "What's the weather like in Condom?"

Gallard: "Sometimes it gets a little hot in Condom. But then we get some rain and we all feel better."

Me: "Do you have many tourists entering Condom?"

Gallard: "Of course. We have new people entering Condom every day. They come to see the Condom Cathedral, the Condom Museum and the Condom Machine."

Me: "Condom Machine? What does the machine do?"

Gallard: "Well, if you put five euro in the machine, it gives you a miniature replica of the town. A mini-Condom, you could say. The town's craftsmen and craftswomen make it."

Me: "Does Condom produce a lot of things? I imagine you're quite proud of the 'Made in Condom' label."

Gallard: "Yes, we are very proud of our products. You could say that we're bursting with Condom pride. In fact, we have a very successful 'Buy Condom, Grow Condom' campaign."

Me: "Do you have other slogans that show your Condom pride?"

Gallard: "Yes, we have many slogans on T-shirts and bumper stickers, such as 'I Love Condom', 'Beautiful Condom', and 'This is not your father's Condom.'"

Me: "You must be excited about the judge's ruling. How did you celebrate?"

Gallard: "We had a Condom parade. Many of our youths walked in the parade, as did our dignitaries and, of course, our most beautiful citizen, Miss Condom herself."

Me: "Do you have any regrets that you couldn't work out a deal with the condom company? You could have made some money for Condom."

Gallard: "Yes, but then our town would forever be associated with condoms. When people think of Condom, we don't want them to think of condoms."

BYLINE:

Melvin Durai is a Manitoba-based writer and humorist. A native of India, he grew up in Zambia and has lived in North America since the early 1980s. Read his humor blog at http://www.Nshima.com.

“THE LONELY FOREST'S ‘WE SING IN TIME’ MUSIC VIDEO PREMIERES TODAY ON MTVU.”

The Lonely Forest's new music video for the song "We Sing In Time" premieres today on MTVU as part of their Indie Music Month. The video, which MTV's Buzzworthy Blog calls "a powerful, visually striking work that'll scare and sadden," can be viewed here: http://www.mtv.com/videos/the-lonely-forest/631968/we-sing-in-time.jhtml

Arrows, whichis out now on Trans Records, was Top 10 most added at CMJ upon its release last week and debuted on FMQB's Alternative Specialty Chart. Following several well-attended performances at South By Southwest, an appearance on Fuel TV's "The Daily Habit" and early critical praise, the band embarks on an extensive North American tour supporting The Joy Formidable this week. In addition, The Lonely Forest will join Death Cab For Cutie as direct support on their "Underplay" tour in May and June, including the Bowery Ballroom in New York City and El Rey in Los Angeles. Please see below for dates.

NYLON praises the album saying, "We are in love with The Lonely Forest. Listen to them now!" and Alternative Press calls Arrows "the band's most self-assured album yet." Teen Vogue describes the album as, "The perfect soundtrack for your next road trip. The songs are meant to be played you're your windows down, stereo up." Meanwhile, NPR's "Song of the Day" hails the band's previous single, saying "'Turn Off This Song' serves as a catchy call to arms, not to mention one of the best and most honest slices of pop music around."

Stream the album now at MSN Music: Arrows Listening Booth

The Lonely Forest's new song "Coyote" is available now as a free download: "Coyote"

Trans Records is the new label headed by Chris Walla, guitarist and producer for Grammy-nominated rock band Death Cab for Cutie, who found The Lonely Forest's music so compelling he made the band his label's very first signing. Walla produced and engineered Arrowsat Sound City studio in Los Angeles, Tiny Telephone in San Francisco and his own, Portland-based studio, Alberta Court. He also mixed three tracks-"Be Everything," "Turn Off This Song And Go Outside" and "I Don't Want To Live There." The balance of the album was mixed by John Goodmanson (Girls, Nada Surf, Weezer).

"The Lonely Forest proves to me," says Walla, "In a time full of throwbacks and references and meta-references, that nothing can beat a focused, bulletproof guitar rock band with amazing songs. I didn't start a label for nothing."

From the outset The Lonely Forest-singer/guitarist/keyboardist John Van Deusen, guitarist Tony Ruland, drummer Braydn Krueger and bassist Eric Sturgeon- has been about inclusion. Having made their mark as a regional favorite with three prior records, the band never imagined a swift and organic rise to national distinction.

THE LONELY FOREST TOUR DATES

w/ The Joy Formidable:

March 29 Allston, MA Brighton Music Hall

March 30 Philadelphia, PA Johnny Brenda's

April 1 Harrisburg, PA The Abbey Bar

April 2 Toronto, ON The Horseshoe Tavern

April 4 Columbus, OH The Basement

April 5 Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall

April 6 Minneapolis, MN 7th Street Entry

April 8 Denver, CO Larimer Lounge

April 9 Salt Lake City, UT Kilby Court

April 11 Portland, OR Mississippi Studios

April 12 Seattle, WA Crocodile Café

April 14 San Francisco, CA Bottom of the Hill

April 16 Costa Mesa, CA (HEADLINE) Detroit Bar

April 17 San Diego, CA (w/ YUCK) UCSD-The Loft

April 19 Phoenix, AZ Rhythm Room

April 20 Albuquerque, NM Launch Pad

April 22 St. Louis, MO Luminary Center for the Arts

April 23 Kansas City, MO The Riot Room

April 26 Cleveland, OH The Grog Shop

April 27 Pittsburgh, PA The Smiling Moose

April 29 New York, NY Webster Hall

w/ Death Cab for Cutie:

May 18 Toronto, ON Phoenix Concert Theatre

May 20 Chicago, IL Metro

May 21 Minneapolis, MN First Avenue

June 1 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom

June 3 Washington, D.C. 9:30 Club

June 4 Philadelphia, PA Trocadero

June 5 Boston, MA Paradise

June 7 Los Angeles, CA El Rey Theatre

June 9 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore

Add To Favorites:

Subscribe:

Archives

Advertisement:

Company Info:

T-Shirts:

Follow on Twitter:

On Location:

Translate Site:

Support Zoiks!:

Entertainment Stories From Around The Web:

Advertisement:

Recent Posts:

Advertisement:

Buy Novels:

Who's Online?:

Advertisement:

'Like' Us on Facebook:

Popular Posts (Last 30 Days):

Kevin Smith Pimps Zoiks!: