Queer Spotlight: Indigo Girls

The Indigo Girls, an American folk-rock lesbian duo consisting of Amy Ray and Emily Sailers, went under the Queer Spotlight this week.

The girls began in 1985 with the release of a seven-inch single "Crazy Game", and an EP and full-length album titled Strange Fire followed. In 1988 they signed a major record deal with Epic Records and released their second, self-titled album. The album reached #22 in the US and was certified platinum. The duo was nominated a Grammy Award for "Best New Artist" (loosing to Milli Vanilli), and won one for "Best Contemporary Folk Album". The album produced their highest charting single on the Billboard Hot 100 "Closer To Fine", which reached #52.

The studio albums Nomads Indians Saints (1990), Rights Of Passage (1992), Swamp Ophelia (1994), Shaming of the Sun (1997), Come on Now Social (1999), Become You (2002), All That We Let In (2004) all followed until the girls departed with Epic and signed with Hollywood Records.

Their stay with Hollywood was cut short after the release of just one album, 2006's Despite our Differences. The album was highly praised for being "...the most infectious, pop-infused set that the duo ever has managed to concoct...its melodies, harmonies, and arrangements are so ingratiating that the album carries the weight of an instant classic." Since leaving, the girls are now releasing their music independently and in March 2009 released the album Poseidon and the Bitter Bug which reached #29 on the Billboard 200.

The girls are heavily involved in political activism. Their advocating for LGBT rights has made them gay icons. As well as this, they stand for environmental causes and have worked with Greenpeace, the rights of Native Americans, and are part of the National Coatition to Abolish the Death Penalty. Ray and Saliers have also appeared at the annual SOA Watch rallies, the March for Women's Lives, and several other rallies and protests.

In 2006, they featured on Pink's album I'm Not Dead in the song "Dear Mr President", a protest song criticizing George W. Bush about war, poverty, LGBT rights, abortion rights, and the No Child Left Behind Act. During June 2007 the Indigo Girls were part of the multi-artist True Colors Tour 2007, created by fellow gay icon Cyndi Lauper in benefit of the Human Rights Campaign and other organizations that provide support to the LGBT community. The Indigo Girls performed again on the True Colors Tour 2008.

Artist News

Madonna's celebration

Here is the official cover for M-Dolla's (aka Madonna) forthcoming, career-spanning compilation titled Celebration. It was designed by street pop artist “Mr. Brainwash” who is best known for “throwing modern cultural icons into a blender and turning it up to eleven." Songs that are currently confirmed to appear on the compilation: "Everybody", "Express Yourself", "Vogue", "4 Minutes", "Celebration".

The compilation is set for release on September 28 2009 in the following formats: single cd, double cd, digital download and dvd. The single “Celebration” goes to radio August 3 and is produced by Paul Oakenfold who has remixed Madonna in the past.

Other Madonna-related releases around the corner: Filth & Wisdom, Madonna's first effort as a director, will be released in the USA on September 29. Her I Am Because We Are documentary will also get a DVD release by September 22.

Liam Gallagher storms off stage!

OASIS singer Liam Gallagher did not appreciate a free beer he received from a fan. Gallagher stormed off stage last night after fans threw beer at him. The singer disappeared during his band's set at London's Roundhouse venue, leaving his brother Noel and the rest of the group to play without him for half an hour.

Liam blamed "students in stupid pointy shoes", for upsetting him, then fumed: "I hope you feel as uncomfortable as I feel", before walking off. Noel then told the crowd: "I think someone's in a bad mood." The 42-year-old guitarist then took to the microphone and the performance continued until Liam returned later in the set. However, the atmosphere between the two brothers was frosty for the rest of the show, with them both leering at each other from opposite sides of the stage throughout.

Already Halo?

Since the release of Kelly Clarkson’s latest album All I Ever Wanted, many fans have noticed the similarity between her song "Already Gone" and Beyonce’s recent hit "Halo". Kelly collaborated with Ryan Tedder on the track, a dramatic ballad driven by a pounding heartbeat, twinkly piano and swooping strings. Unbeknownst to her, Tedder used suspiciously similar elements when he produced a track for Beyonce.

"Ryan and I met each other at the record label, before he was working with anyone else...He's from Oklahoma, I'm from Texas; we got along really well and had some of the same influences. We wrote about six songs together, four or five of them made the album. It was all fine and dandy. I'd never heard of a song called Halo. Her album came out when my album was already being printed. No-one's gonna be sittin' at home, thinking 'Man, Ryan Tedder gave Beyonce and Kelly the same track to write to.' No, they're just gonna be saying I ripped someone off. I called Ryan and said, 'I don't understand. Why would you do that?'"

Kelly claims she "fought and fought" to try and prevent her label from releasing "Already Gone" as her third single, out of respect for Beyonce. "In the end, they're releasing it without my consent," she sighs. "It sucks, but it's one of those things I have no control over. I already made my album. At this point, the record company can do whatever they want with it. It's kind of a s**tty situation, but.… You know, you learn."

In my opinion, while the songs have undeniable similarities, they still both have their own entities and different stories to tell. As Chris said on the show, hit songs follow identical formulas all the time, especially those produced by the same production teams. Just look at Max Martin!

Rob Thomas records INXS classic

Rob Thomas has put down lead vocal on "Never Tear Us Apart" with INXS. The band are in the process of recording a new album with special guest vocalists redoing their greatest hits.

Rob has done INXS before. In fact, Rob’s done "Never Tear Us Apart" before. On the last Matchbox Twenty tour of Australia, INXS drummer Jon Farris joined Matchbox Twenty on drums to perform "Never Tear Us Apart" and "Don’t Change". There is no word when the new INXS album will be released.

Kate goes top 10

Sound Museum favourite Kate Miller-Heidke has scored her first Top 10 hit with the third single from her Curiouser album "The Last Day On Earth". The song received attention during promotional adverts for the Neighbours storyline of Bridgit Parker's tragic death. It instantly climbed the iTunes chart, and this was reflected in the latest ARIA Singles chart when it jumped 28 spots to #7. Kate's previous highest charting entry was with her last single "Caught In The Crowd". It reached #33, but only remained in the top 50 for one week.

Kate has flown back into the country this week after gigging in the US, to promote the song. Here is a breathtaking live acoustic performance.

Releases & Touring

Main source: auspOp




Singles
The All American Rejects – I Wanna
Natalie Bassingthwaighte – Not For You
Beyonce – Sweet Dreams
Paul Dempsey – Ramona Was A Waitress
Keri Hilson – Knock You Down
Kisschasy – Generation Why

Albums
Jon Por Birgisson – Riceboy Sleeps
Michael Jackson – Gold (2CD set)
Pete Yorn – Back And Fourth

Compilations
OST – My Sisters Keeper
OST – Public Enemies
Various – 101 ‘90s Hits (5CD set)
Various – Kickstart My Heart
Various – Ministry Of Sound Presents : Trance Nation
Various – Pasha Classics
Various – popCountry Girls
Various – Skitz Mix 32
Various – Urban Chill

Music DVDs
Andre Rieu – Romantic Moments




Wed 29th July
ADELAIDE – Phrase (Governor Hindmarsh)
JINDABYNE – Downsyde (The Station)
MELBOURNE – Friendly Fires (Prince Bandroom)
MELBOURNE – Pink (Rod Laver Arena)
WOLLONGONG – Eskimo Joe (Wollongong University)

Thurs 30th July
BUNBURY – Something With Numbers (Prince Of Wales)
HOBART – Hilltop Hoods (City Hall)
MELBOURNE – Pink (Rod Laver Arena)
MELBOURNE – The Specials (Palace Theatre)
MELBOURNE – White Lies (HiFi Bar)
MELBOURNE – Yves Klein Blue (Hifi Bar)
SYDNEY – Doves (The Metro)
SYDNEY - Eskimo Joe (Hordern Pavillion)
SYDNEY – Shannon Noll (The Basement)

Fri 31st July
EPPING – Shannon Noll (The Epping Club)
GOLD COAST – Tokenview (Miami Shark Bar)
HEPBURN SPRINGS – Naked In The Woods
MANDURAH – Something With Numbers (Players Bar)
MELBOURNE – Jimmy Barnes (Palais Theatre)
MELBOURNE – Hilltop Hoods (The Palace)
NEWCASTLE - Eskimo Joe (Newcastle Panthers)
NEWCASTLE – Lost Valentinos (The Cambridge)
SYDNEY – Downsyde (Annandale Hotel)

Sat 1st August
ADELAIDE – Hilltop Hoods (Thebarton Theatre)
BLACKTOWN – Shannon Noll (Blacktown Workers)
BRISBANE – Tokenview (The Troubadour)
CANBERRA - Eskimo Joe (ANU)
MELBOURNE – Naked In The Woods
MELBOURNE – Pink (Rod Laver Arena)
MELBOURNE – White Album Concert (Hamer Hall)
PERTH – Jimmy Barnes (Burswood Theatre)
PERTH – Doves (Capitol)
PERTH – Something With Numbers (Amplifier)
SYDNEY – Downsyde (Annandale Hotel)
SYDNEY – Lost Valentinos (Oxford Art Factory)

Sun 2nd August
MELBOURNE – Pink (Rod Laver Arena)
NEWCASTLE – Downsyde (Cambridge Hotel)
PERTH – Jimmy Barnes (Burswood Theatre)




Went on sale Monday 27th July
Jimmy Barnes (Melbourne)
Kate Ceberano (Melbourne)
Paul Dempsey (Nationally)

Go on sale Friday 31st July
Tori Amos (Nationally)
Little Birdy (Nationally)
Short Stack (Nationally)




Beyonce has cancelled two of her forthcoming Australian shows. In addition to the cancellation of the two concerts, one in Sydney and one in Brisbane, the singer is also moving the date of another show (also in Brisbane). The singer's first Australian concert, due to take place in Brisbane on September 12, has now been delayed to September 20. The tour will now kick off in Melbourne on September 15. According to touring agent Michael Coppel, the cancellations are due to an 'unforseen change in Beyonce's international schedule'.

Aussie hip hop artist Snob Scrilla, whose single '.....(The Song With No Name)' has been occupying the ARIA top 100 for the past few weeks, is set to embark on a tour around the nation. He'll be joined on the 16 date journey by fellow Aussies Dash & Will, whose new album Up In Something hits stores late next month. The tour, kicking off in Melbourne on August 14, takes in dates in every state bar the Northern Territory, with tickets now on sale.

August 14 : Melbourne (East Brunswick Club)
August 15 : Geelong (Barwon Club)
August 19 : Byron Bay (Great Northern Hotel)
August 20 : Gold Coast (Coolangatta Hotel)
August 21 : Toowoomba (Bon Amici Cafe)
August 22 : Brisbane (Globe Theatre)
August 26 : Hobart (Republic Bar)
August 27 : Launceston (Hotel New York)
August 28 : Ballarat (Karova Lounge)
August 29 : Adelaide (Edinburgh Castle Hotel)
September 01 : Cronulla (Brass Monkey)
September 02 : Wollongong (Oxford Tavern)
September 04 : Canberra (ANU Union Bar)
September 05 : Sydney (Oxford Arts Factory)
September 10 : Fremantle (Mojo's)
September 11 : Perth (Amplifier Bar)

Tori Amos is set to tour the country in November in support of her latest album Abnormally Attracted To Sin. The singer last visited Australia two years ago. The tour will take in one date each (so far) in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide with a couple of days in between to presumably fill with more shows if there's demand. The 'Sinful Attraction' tour is the singer's fifth to visit Australian shores and tickets go on sale on Friday July 31.

November 12 : Melbourne (Regent Theatre)
November 16 : Sydney (Opera House Concert Hall)
November 19 : Adelaide (Thebarton Theatre)
November 21 : Perth (PCEC Riverside Theatre)
November 24 : Brisbane (QPAC Concert Hall)

Matchbox 20 frontman Rob Thomas is set to tour. The singer, whose new album Cradlesong and single "Her Diamonds" have been occupying the top five in recent weeks, will play a series of concerts in February, including 'A Day On The Green' events in South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria. Vanessa Amorosi will be supporting. Tickets go on sale on Friday August 07, with tickets for the Sandalford Wines gig on sale Monday August 10.

February 05 : Melbourne (Rod Laver Arena)
February 07 : McLaren Vale (Leconfield Wines) ADOTG
February 11 : Brisbane (Entertainment Centre)
February 13 : Hunter Valley (Hope Estate Winery)
February 14 : Bowral (Centennial Vineyards) ADOTG
February 17 : Sydney (Acer Arena)
February 20 : Yarra Valley (Rochford Wines) ADOTG
February 21 : Swan Valley (Sandalford Wines) ADOTG

Episode 3: 28.07.09 Playlist

1. Metric – Gimme Sympathy
Fantasies, 2009
2. Robyn – Be Mine!
Robyn, 2005
3. Ricki-Lee – Don't Miss You
Hear No, See No, Speak No, 2009
4. Lady Gaga – Paparazzi (Stuart Price Remix)
The Fame, 2008
5. Eminem – Beautiful
Relapse, 2009
6. Indigo Girls – Closest To Fine (Live)
1200 Curfews, 1995
7. Kelly Clarkson – Already Gone (Live on Letterman)
All I Ever Wanted, 2009
8. Mika – We Are Golden
We Are Golden, 2009
9. Gathania – Blame It On You
TBA
10. Mr DYF ft. Shena – Hold On
Freemasons: Shakedown 2, 2009
11. Fleetwood Mac - Seven Wonders
Tango In The Night, 1987
12. Paul Mac ft. Peta Morris - Just The Thing
3000 Feet High, 2001

Vote in our poll

In light of our recent discussion on the topic of digital download vs. the CD, we'd like to know what your preferred musical format is. Are you a greater fan of the download age where music can be bought instantly from your very own computer, or do you prefer the physicality of the CD? Vote on the poll to the right of your screen now!

Industry News

Kazaa relaunches as a legit music download service

Kazaa, once a peer-to-peer file sharing site at the centre of many copyright lawsuits, has officially been re-launched as a legal subscription music service. The new online payments model, being run by new owner Brilliant Digital Entertainment (BDE), allows registered users to download unlimited music mp3 files for US$19.98 per month.

However, the new subscription package is only for PCs, meaning the files won’t play on an iPod or any other portable music device and once a subscription is terminated, access to the downloaded music ends.

The new service marks a significant change for Kazza, whose turbulent past includes a $100 million legal battle against four major record labels for copyright infringement over its former file sharing network.

In 2006, Kazaa agreed to settle with Universal Music Group, Sony BMG Music Entertainment, EMI Group and Warner Music Group, all of which claimed Kazaa's former owner, Sharman Networks, allowed its users to breach copyright laws by sharing and swapping songs.
Read article here.

Warner and YouTube still in talks over deal

Warner Music Group is still in talks with video sharing site YouTube to license its artists' music videos, as negotiations over payment reached an impasse. Videos from Warner artists like Madonna and Green Day were removed from YouTube last December after both sides were unable to agree on financial terms for the licensing rights. While talks are still ongoing no imminent announcements are expected. "We are working actively to find a resolution with YouTube that would enable the return of our artists' content to the site," Warner said in a statement.

Warner Music, the world's third largest music company, was among the first major music companies to sign a deal with YouTube. As chief executive, Warner Music's Edgar Bronfman is keen to improve terms of his previous deal with YouTube. Warner still makes videos available to MTV, MySpace Music and other sites.

The video sharing site is regarded by music industry insiders as one of the most important music discovery tools for fans. It has more than 100 million visitors every month in the United States alone and is just as popular in many other countries.
Read article here.

Issue under the microscope: Digital download vs. CD

Throughout the decades, the way we consume music has evolved. From the vinyl record to the cassette tape, to the CD, to the digital download and even more recently the USB - new formats are created with the hope of enhancing the music listening experience in terms of quality, durability, accessibility and convenience. We leave the old one behind, sometimes with much hesitation, and embrace the new one.

Worldwide, legal downloading has steadily increased, while the physical CD has begun to suffer (although this suffering can be attributed more greatly to illegal downloading as opposed to legal downloading). It raises the question - is the CD becoming a threatened format? Are downloads the way of the future? Digital formats made up 20 percent of recorded music sales globally in 2008 according to IFPI figures, growing from 15 percent a year earlier.

A recent study in the UK however has found that consumers still turn to the CD as their preferred choice. The annual Speakerbox survey found that overall, 73 percent of music buyers prefer CDs. Even with the 14-18 year olds who are thought to be more download-friendly, 66 percent preferred the CD. Why do we remain loyal to the CD? Both formats have their pluses and minuses.

JOY music team administrator and on-air presenter Chris Jameson joined us this week to discuss the issue. He drew on his own personal experiences as a music lover and IT specialist. Here is a brief outline of the points discussed.


PROS OF THE SWITCH FROM CD TO DIGITAL DOWNLOAD

- Artists can more readily put music online because it doesn’t have to go through the long and costly manufacturing process. Especially great for indie/unsigned musicians.
- Download stores allow consumers more freedom to choose the songs they want. They are not forced to buy an entire album.
- Download stores allow consumers to sample (usually 30 seconds) before they buy.
- Physical music formats can break/scratch.
- Digital stores never run out of stock!
- Accessibility and convenience – you can buy music where you want it, when you want it. No need to travel to the record store.
- These days, most people listen to their music through computers – they rip all their CDs onto iTunes and rarely ever use them again.
- Environmentally friendly – no plastic or paper required.
- Effect on the charts. The inclusion of downloads means old songs can re-enter the charts. A song does not have to be formally released as a single to be able to chart. For example, Lily Allen's "Fuck You" was so popular on iTunes and begun charting around the world, the record label decided to turn it into a single. Inclusion of downloads means the charts are a greater reflection of what’s popular or events that are happening at the time. For example, the death of Michael Jackson saw his songs chart all over the world.


CONS OF THE SWITCH FROM CD TO DIGITAL DOWNLOAD

- Lack of physicality – what if your hard drive crashes and you lose all your music?
- Collectability – fans like to collect CDs by their favorite artists.
- No more artwork and linear notes.
- Killing the concept of the album? People now have the choice of only downloading the songs they want, as opposed to the entire album. From a business perspective, less money is being made for the labels. From an artistic perspective, are people missing the musical journey a full album takes you on?
- Quality of mp3s not as high as CD.
- CDs are available to all sections of society – you don’t need a credit cards/vouchers to purchase them. Older generations/ people who are not internet savvy loose access to music.
- Effect on the charts. The rise in legal downloads means the cd single is on its last leg and many retailers no longer stock them.

Further reading:
1. Monsters of rock sound upbeat at last
2. Music lovers still prefer CDs over digital downloads
3. Michael Jackson album sales highlight physical, digital merits
4. Vinyl record sales spinning upward

Queer Spotlight: John Barrowman

This week we put John Barrowman, the multi-talented Scottish entertainer, under the Queer Spotlight.

Barrowman is best known on British television for his acting and presenting work for the BBC. His most prominent television role has been as Captain Jack Harkness in Doctor Who and its spin-off series Torchwood. He has featured in such light entertainment shows as Live & Kicking, Any Dream Will Do, How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, and I'd Do Anything as well as appearing on the celebrity ice skating show Dancing on Ice.

John has dual citizenship in the UK and US. As a result of his family's move to Illinois when he was eight years old, he speaks with an American accent on screen, but reverts to a Scottish accent when with family or in Scotland.

John has been with his partner, Scott Gill, since 1993, from when they met during a production of Rope at the Chichester Festival Theatre. Despite this long-standing relationship, John told Scotland's The Herald newspaper that he had no plans to marry, saying, "Why would I want a 'marriage' from a belief system that hates me?" However, he and Gill did become civil partners on 27 December 2006. As John explained when the couple were interviewed by Attitude magazine, the couple do not want to call this a marriage: "We're just going to sign the civil register. We're not going to have any ceremony because I'm not a supporter of the word marriage for a gay partnership."

Interestingly, he was turned down for the role of Will in the US series Will and Grace as the producers felt he was "too straight". The role went to Eric McCormack who is heterosexual in real-life. Of the decision, John said "The sad thing is it's run by gay men and women," said Barrowman in a January 2006 article. He later expressed contempt for the idea that all gay men act the same way.

He was voted the 2006 Stonewall "Entertainer of the Year" and was third in Broadcast magazine's "Hottest Commodity" poll in November 2006. He was named by Out Magazine as "One of the 100 Men and Women to make 2008 a year to remember".

In 2008, he released an album of mostly covers titled Music Music Music. We played the first single "What About Us", an original song penned by Gary Barlow and Chris Braide. Watch the video here.

Releases & Touring

Main source: auspOp

Releases in stores this week
Singles
Da Hool – Meet Her At The Love Parade
Short Stack – Sway, Sway Baby
Jordin Sparks – Battlefield
Albums
Patrizio Buanne – Best Of
Dananananaykroyd – Hey Everyone
Diesel – Project Blues
DJ Sirvere – Major Flavours 4
Florence & The Machine – Lungs
Jordin Sparks – Battlefield
Sundance Kids – Fall Into Place
Compilations
Various – Ministry Of Sound Presents : Underground 2009

Playing this week
Thurs 23rd July
BRISBANE – Pink (Entertainment Centre)
BUSSELTON – Downsyde (Esplanade Hotel)
PERTH – Hilltop Hoods (Capitol Theatre)
SYDNEY – Kisschasy (Oxford Arts Factory)
Fri 24th July
BRISBANE – Hilltop Hoods (Hifi Bar)
PERTH – Friendly Fires (Amplifier Bar)
WOLLONGONG – Something With Numbers (Waves Nightclub)
Sat 25th July
BRISBANE – Pink (Entertainment Centre)
BYRON BAY – Splendour In The Grass
MELBOURNE – Evermore (Hifi Bar) UNDER 18s
NEWCASTLE – Something With Numbers (Panthers)
SYDNEY – Ja Rule (Luna Park)
Sun 26th July
BRISBANE – Pink (Entertainment Centre)
BYRON BAY – Splendour In The Grass

Tickets on sale this week
Went on sale Monday
Jimmy Barnes (Queensland)
Beyonce (Sydney)
Black Eyed Peas (Nationally)
Go on sale Thursday
Nickelback (Nationally)
Tame Impala (Nationally)

In touring news...
Pink was forced to postpone her Monday 20th gig in Brisbane because she has laryngitis. The show has been moved back a week until next Monday July 27. Tickets for the postponed date will be valid for the show next week. However, anyone who cannot make the show next week will be given a full refund if they contact Ticketek before 5pm this Friday, July 24.

The Black Eyed Peas have announced two more dates for their Australian visit. Tickets for the two new shows (one each in Sydney and Melbourne) went on sale yesterday. The concerts in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth are already selling quickly. The new shows take place:
October 03 : Sydney (Acer Arena)
October 07 : Melbourne (Rod Laver Arena)

Something For Kate frontman Paul Dempsey has announced a national tour. His new album 'Everything Is True' hits the stores on August 14. Tickets for all dates go on sale on Monday July 27. For Melbourne, he plays the Corner Hotel on September 12.

September 10 : Belgrave (Ruby's Lounge)
September 11 : Hepburn Springs (The Palais)
September 12 : Melbourne (Corner Hotel)
September 16 : Kincumber (Lizotte's)
September 17 : Wollongong (Wollongong University)
September 18 : Newcastle (Brewery NSW)
September 19 : Sydney (Manning Bar)
September 25 : Gold Coast (Sound Lounge)
September 26 : Brisbane (The Zoo)
October 01 : Adelaide (Governor Hindmarsh)
October 02 : Perth (Rosemount Hotel)
October 03 : Fremantle (Fly By Night)
October 09 : Ballarat (Karova Lounge)
October 10 : San Remo (Westernport Hotel)

The first Australian Idol winner Guy Sebastian is playing some shows early next year in support of his upcoming album “Like It Like That”. You can check out the new video for the first single here. Tickets are now on sale.

February 12 : Perth (Convention Centre)
February 13 : Adelaide (Convention Centre)
February 14 : Sydney (State Theatre)
February 19 : Brisbane (QPAC)
February 20 : Melbourne (Hamer Hall)

Little Birdy have announced a new national tour on the back of the release of their new album 'Confetti', with dates in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, ACT and South Australia before it wraps up in Perth in early October.

Singer Katy Steele will also perform a solo show at Brisbane's Spiegeltent in late September. Tickets for the dates go on sale on Friday July 31.

September 10 : Adelaide (HQ Bar)
September 11 : Melbourne (Forum Theatre)
September 12 : South Morang (Commercial Hotel)
September 13 : Canberra (Hellenic Club)
September 16 : Wollongong (Waves Nightclub)
September 18 : Sydney (Enmore Theatre)
September 19 : Newcastle (Civic Theatre)
September 25 : Yamba (Bowling Club)
September 26 : Brisbane (Sounds Of Spring Festival)
September 27 : Brisbane (Spiegeltent - Katy Steele solo show)
September 29 : Gladstone (Entertainment Centre)
September 30 : Mackay (Convention Centre)
October 02 : Townsville (Bombay Rock)
October 03 : Cairns (Brothers Leagues)
October 09 : Perth (Astor Theatre)

Episode 2: 21.07.09 Playlist

1. Kelly Clarkson – I Do Not Hook Up (Ashanti Boys Remix)
All I Ever Wanted, 2009
2. Mariah Carey – Obsessed
Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel, 2009
3. U2 – I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight
No Line On The Horizon, 2009
4. Bananarama – Love Comes
Viva, 2009
5. Jordin Sparks – Let It Rain
Battlefield, 2009
6. Kate Miller-Heidke – The Last Day On Earth
Curiouser, 2008
7. John Barrowman – What About Us
Music Music Music, 2008
8. Pet Shop Boys – Can You Forgive Her (Swing Remix)
Very, 1993
9. Little Birdy – Hairdo
Confetti, 2009
10. Bellatrax ft. Tina Cousins – Can't Hold Back
Can't Hold Back (single), 2009
11. Madonna ft. Justin Timberlake & Timbaland - 4 Minutes (PWL Remix)
Hard Candy, 2008
12. Savage Garden – I Bet He Was Cool
Truly Madly Deeply (UK single), 1997
13. Divinyls – Pleasure & Pain
What A Life, 1985

On tomorrow's show!

On our second episode of Sound Museum, we'll be joined by a panel of JOY music lovers for a discussion about changes in music consumption: legal digital downloading vs. the physical CD. How does this advancement in technology effect the way we as music lovers consume music? What are the pros and cons of legal downloading? How does it effect the way artists communicate with their fans? Excite yourself for a very insightful and engaging discussion, from 11pm on JOY 94.9.

We're on Twitter and Last.fm!

If you're twittering, you can now follow Sound Museum. We'll post live updates as we go to air, preview upcoming episodes, notify you when podcasts are available, and update you on the latest industry happenings as they happen.

We have also created a group on Last.fm, a social network for music lovers. For those who don't have a Last.fm account, create one now! It's a brilliant site for people who are really keen about their love for music. Simply install the free software which connects the site to your music player (such as iTunes or Windows Media Player etc) and it will list the music you listen to as you're listening to it! It keeps a library of your entire music listening history and showcases your listening habits - the number of times you listen to particular artists, the number of times you listen to particular songs, over different periods of time. It ranks your artists/tracks in order of how many times you have listened to them.

The more people who join our group the better because it will keep track of which artists we listen to as a group. Join the group here.

Artist News

- Here is the cover art for Whitney Houston's forthcoming, seventh studio album I Look To You. This is Whitney's first studio effort since 2002's Just Whitney, and will hopefully provide a big comeback for the diva who once had it all, before the drugs took over. One track "I Don't Know My Own Strength", a big ballad, leaked onto the net last week to mixed reception from fans, but there is no confirmation that it will be the lead single as has been suggested.

On July 14, 2009 Houston was in London for the album's official launch party. In total nine songs were premiered including "Million Dollar Bill", "Nuthin' But Love", "I Didn't Know My Own Strength", "Like I Never Left" (featuring Akon), "For the Lovers", "I Look to You" (featuring R Kelly), "Worth It" and a cover of Leon Russell's "A Song for You". "Calling You Tonight" (produced and demo by Johnta Austin) was also played and cited as a likely lead single. Executive producer Clive Davis also pointed out that "we didn't try to fit Whitney into the market" and much of the songs were still unfinished. The album is not yet complete. Someone better get a rig along as the album is due August 28, the same date as Mariah's newie. We smell a big battle of the divas!!! Better get your armor as one Jordin Sparks would say.

- A 20 second clip of Madonna's brand new track "Celebrate" has leaked onto the internet and sees a return to the euro-dance sound of her 2005 studio effort Confessions On A Dancefloor. A wise move after the hard flopping of last year's underwhelming Hard Candy. The track, produced by Paul Oakenfold, will be the first single from Madge's new Greatest Hits compilation due in September. It will be released to radio stations on July 28, 2009 and on other areas on August 3, 2009.

- And speaking of hits compilations, Britney Spears is to release a singles collection later this year. A bit strange considering Brit has only released two studio albums since 2004's comprehensive My Prerogative: Greatest Hits compilation. It's set for a October 23rd release, perfectly timed for her first Australian tour.

- In local news, a couple of former Idol favorites have new music on the way. Guy Sebastian has a new song "Like It Like That" ready for release August 21st and you can listen to the track and watch behind the scenes footage of the music video here. Returning to an upbeat, feel good soulful sound, I have to say I'm impressed by this song and look forward to giving it a spin. Guy has spent much of the past year playing gigs and recording in the US where "Like It Like That" will be his first release. The album of the same name is out October 9 and will be his first album of original material since 2006's Closer To The Sun. His 2007 soul covers album The Memphis Album was a big success achieving double platinum sales.

- Meanwhile, Ricki-Lee has unveiled the cover of her brand new single "Don't Miss You". The track goes to radio next week and to retail July 31st. Her third studio album Hear No, See No, Speak No is due in October. Let's hope Ricki-Lee can redeem herself after last year's ill-informed decision to release a "Singles Collection" (with only 6 singles to her name!). Rightfully so, the compilation bombed miserably, failing to chart anywhere in the ARIA Top 100.

Issue under the microscope: Ticket Scalping

This week we discussed the problem of ticket scalping. Ticket scalping is the practice of purchasing in-demand tickets for a show for the sake of making a profit. The scalper has no interest in attending the show, but to re-sell those tickets to fans for a value higher than the original cost price.

It's a greedy way of ripping off desperate fans who will pay extraordinary amounts of money to see their favorite artists in concert. The prices some fans are willing to pay may be hundreds, even thousands of dollars above the original price. Many scalpers operate out of houses filled with banks of computers and use multiple high-limit credit cards to buy tickets in bulk on the first day of sale. They then put the tickets on sites such as TicketsNow, eBay or StubHub.

A couple of examples:
- A-reserve tickets to AC/DC concerts next February for $410 each (cost price $149.90)
- Platinum seats for Simon and Garfunkel's show last month were selling for $1000 each (cost prince $358.50)

Michael Jackson's farewell memorial is a rather morbid example of scalpers cashing in on the superstars death. 1.5 million fans signed up to go into the draw to receive tickets to the memorial - just 8,750 would be chosen. Each person selected received two tickets. Obviously there is an incredible demand for these tickets. The nature of the event meant fans were emotionally vulnerable and willing to fork out whatever it took to be in that arena, watching the King Of Pop's final goodbye. Tickets were found on eBay at crazy prices up to $25,0000! The screen grab above this article sees a ticket going for $10,000. eBay tried to pull these auctions down as soon as they could.

The industry is testing new ways of fighting the problem. Young American sensation Miley Cyrus' concert tour is introducing a paperless ticketing system where attendees do not receive a physical ticket for the event. Ticket holders will be required to present the credit card they purchased the tickets with as well as photo ID. This raises some issues. What if you don't own a credit card? We cannot imagine that many of Miley's pre-teen fans are credit cards holders. Obviously there is the expectation that parents will escort their children into the venue, but what about older teenagers? Can't see them being too keen with the idea of dragging mum or dad to a Kings Of Leon concert in order to get through the door. It's an inconvenience. This system may also lead to pre-show mayhem crowds, as it would most likely become a longer process. Credit card and photo ID checks would surely take longer as opposed to the simple swipe of a ticket.

Green Day's latest tour has introduced new procedures to fight scalping. Ordered tickets will not be available for pickup until the night of the show. Holders of the "will call" tickets must present the original credit card used to order the tickets, confirmation number and photo ID. Once they have their tickets they are escorted directly into the venue. They will not be permitted to leave at any point. Additional box office staff will be in place, as well as additional security to ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently. "The concept is, you can't scalp tickets," says Duncan Gillespie of HECFI (Hamilton Entertainment and Convention Facilities Inc). "It ensures the person who buys the ticket sees the concert."

In Australia, only Victoria and Queensland have anti-scalping laws. Scalping has become a big issue for AFL matches. Under Victorian law, it is illegal to sell AFL grand final tickets above face value, but other games are not covered.

Further reading:
1. Ticket Scalping Discussion Paper December 2006
2. Cyrus fights scalpers with paperless tickets
3. Green Day cuts scalpers off
4. Green Day Apply Anti-Scalping Measures For Aussie Tour

Industry News

Asia tests new ways of making music profit

The economic crisis has seen a dramatic downturn in physical sales of music and an increase in illegal downloading. Marcel Fenez of PricewaterhouseCoopers’ entertainment and media practice says that "Consumers are enjoying more hours of music, they just aren’t paying for it". Asia’s physical distribution market fell by 9.3 percent in 2008 – the biggest drop in 5 years. A survey of more than 8,000 young Asians b/w 15 to 24 year olds found only 11% paid for the music they obtained online - Scary statistic, isn't it?

The industry is exploring how it can capitalize on new technology and get paid for music in a completely new way.

Nokia is now offering an "All You Can Eat" music services bundled with its mobile phones. Instead of paying per song, music lovers are allowed to download onto their phone any song they want for a 12 to 18-month period. The cost of the music is factored into the price of the handset.

Another scheme, thought to be previously-unthinkable, that is being tried comes from internet giant Google, in partnership with record labels such as Warner, Sony and EMI. Working with Chinese music site Top100, the project, launched earlier this year, offers Chinese users music that can be legally downloaded for free. It hopes to cash in by attracting more visitors, and then capitalising on that increased traffic through advertising. Doubts remain about whether the venture can lead to real revenues. "We believe that by investing heavily in product innovation, the users will come and then the money will come," said Google China's engineering director Bin Lin at the Hong Kong conference.
Read full article.

Webcasters and music industry reach royalties agreement

Internet radio reached an agreement on streaming-music royalty rates with SoundExchange, the group that collects royalties on behalf of artists and labels. The two sides announced the deal, which comes after more than two years of negotiations, political maneuvering, and fans pleading with lawmakers to save Webcasting. It should be noted, however, that Webcasters are still at a disadvantage when competing with traditional broadcast radio. Over-the-air stations aren't required to pay royalty rates to artists or labels.

Steve Marks, an executive vice president for the Recording Industry Association of America and one of the people who helped close the deal, said the settlement is proof that the music industry wants to partner with technology firms. "Supporting new business models through innovative licensing agreements is critical to the future of our industry," Marks said. "We are pleased to have found an alternative in the hope of avoiding costly litigation in favor of building partnerships."

The agreement calls for large ad-supported radio services, such as Pandora, to either share 25 percent of revenue with the music industry or pay a per-stream rate of 0.08 cent retroactive to 2006, whichever is greater. That rate will increase until reaching 0.14 cent in 2015. Sites that generate less than $1.25 million in revenue must pay 12 percent to 14 percent of sales for streaming rights.
Read full article.

Collapse in illegal sharing and boom in streaming music

New research shows that the number of teenagers illegally sharing music has fallen dramatically in the past year. The survey of 1,000 fans also shows that many 14 to 18 year olds are now streaming music regularly online using services such as YouTube and Spotify.

At the same time less than a third of teenagers are now illegally downloading music, the survey suggests. In January this year 26% of 14 to 18 year olds admitted filesharing at least once a month compared with 42% in December 2007. The research revealed that many teenagers (65%) are streaming music regularly, with more 14 to 18 year olds (31%) listening to streamed music on their computer every day compared with music fans overall (18%).

Paul Brindley, CEO of Music Ally, which carried out the survey with media and technology research company, The Leading Question, said: "These figures challenge the idea that filesharing will just continue to grow. While we don't think for a second that it shows the war against piracy is won, it does at least suggest that there is encouraging news for the music industry." Music fan Dominique Wakefield, 24, said "While I was at uni I started listening to streamed music using MySpace. Bands would be friends with other bands and it was a great way of discovering new music. I don't really feel the need to own all that music, I know it's always there. I still buy the occasional CD, and sometimes use iTunes. If I find myself loving a whole album and listening to it again and again, then I will buy it. But it has to be quite special."

Legal digital sales are also seeing an unprecedented boom, although sales are far from making up from the shortfall created by the collapse of the physical market. Digital singles were up 41.5% in 2008, while physical singles sales plunged 43.5%, according to the BPI. Last year three albums – Coldplay's Viva La Vida, Kings of Leon's Only By Night and Duffy's Rockferry – sold more than 100,000 digital copies, and the impact of digital is nowhere more apparent than in the UK singles top 40, where Michael Jackson has 12 posthumous entries in the current chart.
Read full article.

Queer Spotlight: Adam Lambert

Being a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered radio station, it was a no-brainer that we would showcase queer talent on Sound Museum. So each week we'll put a queer performer under the spotlight and highlight their professional and personal achievements.

This week we covered a very recent rise-to-fame. Adam Lambert was the runner-up of this year's American Idol season. For many he was favorite to win throughout the competition, but lost out to Kris Allen. With his trademark queer-friendly look of dark eye-makeup and alternative, punk style fashion, Adam was certainly something different for the squeaky clean Idol image, but won audiences over with his soaring vocals and energetic stage presence. He also took on some very interesting songs: "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes, "Believe" by Cher, "Play That Funky Music" by Wild Cherry, "Black Or White" by Michael Jackson and "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin were just some of his choices.

His performances garnered critical acclaim each week from the judges. For his second Top 7 performance, Lambert sang "If I Can't Have You", delivering what Kara DioGuardi described as his "most memorable performance", while Simon Cowell described his vocals as "immaculate". Paula Abdul was reduced to tears. In the Top 4, Lambert performed "Whole Lotta Love". Cowell commented, "that was one of my favorite performances... nobody can top that now", while Abdul, punning on the song's title, described Lambert's performance as "a whole lotta perfect".

Questions about his sexuality came to the forefront when photos of him kissing other men, and in drag, began circulating the internet. Adam confirmed the photos where of him, saying he had nothing to hide, but never publicly confirmed his sexuality whilst on the show. Weeks after the finale, he came out publicly on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. He said, "I don't think it should be a surprise for anyone to hear I'm gay... I'm proud of my sexuality. I embrace it. It's just another part of me."

Adam is certainly not the first openly gay man to come from the Idol series. Last year, American Idol Season 2 runner-up Clay Aitken finally came out after years of speculation. In 2006, Australian Idol Season 2 runner up Anthony Callea came out after heavy speculation. See a trend happening here?!? And of course, 2002 UK Pop Idol winner Will Young is openly gay, and has enjoyed continued musical success over the years. Australia also had a drag contestant named Courtney Act make the semi-finals in its first season.

Adam is currently working on his debut album with producers Greg Wells and RedOne, due later this year. We played his gorgeous version of "Mad World" by Tears For Fears on this week's show.

Kiwi Corner

Each week, Johno will run through the latest headlines concerning the New Zealand GLBT community, and play a track by a New Zealand artist.

Headlines:
- Auckland City Council has given out over $262,000 in its Community Group Assistance Fund for 2009, but all four applications from LGBT community groups have been declined. Read article here.
- Last month's glamourous Black Tie Drag Bingo night at Auckland's Hopetoun Alpha venue raised $7,032 for the Cartier Bereavement Charitable Trust - and the Trustees are "thrilled to bits" with the response to the new event. Read article here.
- Around 30 Aucklanders, and also a huge crowd of punters at K'Road's gay Naval and Family pub, participated in this collaborative video by singing along to Lily Allen's "Fuck You". Watch it here:


We played "Cruise Control" by New Zealand pop group Headless Chickens from their 1993 album Body Blow. The single was a number one hit in New Zealand and reached #26 in Australia.

Releases & Touring

Releases in stores this week
Singles
Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling
Lady Gaga – Paparazzi
Albums
Benny Anderson – Story Of A Heart
Sarah Blasko – As Day Follows Night
Abbie Cardwell – Love Motel
Daughtry – Leave This Town
Red Riders – Drown In Colour
Compilations
OST – Harry Potter & The Half Blood Prince
Various – Onelove : Smash Your Stereo

Playing this week
Tuesday July 14
ADELAIDE – Ten Tenors (Festival Theatre)
MELBOURNE – Pink (Rod Laver Arena)
MELBOURNE – Pink (Rod Laver Arena)
Wednesday July 16
BYRON BAY – Phrase (Great Northern Hotel)
ADELAIDE – Short Stack (The Governor Hindmarsh)
BALLARAT – Kisschasy (The Arms)
Thursday July 17
MAROOCHYDORE – Phrase (Sands Tavern)
SYDNEY – Pink (Entertainment Centre)
SYDNEY – Ten Tenors (State Theatre)
Friday July 18
ADELAIDE – Short Stack (The Governor Hindmarsh)
BRISBANE – Phrase (The Zoo)
SYDNEY – Hilltop Hoods (Enmore Theatre)
SYDNEY – Pink (Entertainment Centre)

Tickets on sale this week
July 14 : James Hunter (Sydney, Melbourne)
July 14 : Chris Isaak (Perth, Melbourne, Sydney)
July 17 : Wolfmother (Nationally)

In touring news...
- American rock-folk singer Aimee Mann will visit Australian shores for the very first time this year to play gigs in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Ben Lee will provide support for both the Sydney and Melbourne shows.
September 3 : Brisbane (Powerhouse)
September 4 : Sydney (Enmore)
September 5 : Melbourne (Palais Theatre)

- Nickelback have announced an Australian tour. Tickets go on sale Thursday July 23.
November 11 : Brisbane (Entertainment Centre)
November 13 : Sydney (Acer Arena)
November 16 : Melbourne (Rod Laver Arena)
November 19 : Adelaide (Entertainment Centre)
November 21 : Perth (Burswood Dome)

- Beyonce has announced a third show in Sydney for her forthcoming 'I Am' Australian tour. Four of the nine shows have now sold out – one in Brisbane, one in Melbourne and two in Sydney. It’s been announced that US hip-hop star Flo Rida and our own Jessica Mauboy will be support acts for the tour. Tickets for the new September 20 Sydney date, go on sale on Monday July 20.
September 12 : Brisbane (Entertainment Centre) SOLD OUT
September 13 : Brisbane (Entertainment Centre)
September 15 : Melbourne (Rod Laver Arena) SOLD OUT
September 16 : Melbourne (Rod Laver Arena)
September 18 : Sydney (Acer Arena) SOLD OUT
September 19 : Sydney (Acer Arena) SOLD OUT
September 20 : Sydney (Acer Arena) NEW SHOW
September 22 : Adelaide (Entertainment Centre)
September 24 : Perth (Burswood Dome) LIMITED TIX

- Evermore have replaced Faker as the support act for the remainder of the Aussie dates on Pink's 'Funhouse' tour.

- Sydney electro boys Grafton Primary have announced a series of live dates throughout August and September. Tickets for all shows are on sale now.
August 14 : Canberra (The Academy)
August 19 : Frankston (Pelly Bar)
August 21 : Melbourne (Corner Hotel)
August 22 : Hobart (University Of Tasmania)
August 29 : Perth (The Capitol)
September 02 : Armidale (University Of New England)
September 03 : Wollongong (University Of Wollongong)
September 04 : Sydney (The Metro)
September 05 : Brisbane (The Zoo)
September 11 : Adelaide (The Governor Hindmarsh)
September 12 : Gosford (Coaster 2009 Festival)
September 17 : Newcastle (University Of Newcastle)
September 19 : Albury (Indie Music Festival)

Episode 1: 14.07.09 Playlist

1. MGMT – Time To Pretend
Oracular Spectacular, 2007
2. Kylie Minogue – Speakerphone
X, 2007
3. Cascada - Evacuate The Dancefloor
Evacuate The Dancefloor, 2009
4. Kid Cudi ft. Kanye West & Common - Make Her Say
Man on the Moon: The End of Day, 2009
5. Alexandra Burke - Hallelujah
Hallelujah (single), 2008
6. Little Boots - Remedy
Hands, 2009
7. Adam Lambert - Mad World
American Idol: Season 8 Favorite Performances, 2009
8. Aqua - Back To The 80s
Greatest Hits, 2009
10. Grafton Primary – SOS Hello
Eon, 2008
11. Natalie Bassingthwaighte - Not For You
1000 Stars, 2009
12. Headless Chickens - Cruise Control
Body Blow, 1991
13. Pepsi & Shirlie - Heartache
All Right Now, 1987
14. Daniel Merriweather - Impossible
Love and War, 2009
15. Whitney Houston & Deborah Cox - Same Script, Different Cast
Greatest Hits, 2000
16. Mark Vincent - Time To Say Goodbye
My Dream, Mio Visione, 2009

Red Carpet special

It's an A-grade affair on the red carpet for the premiere of Sound Museum. Gaga forgot her pants, Britney forgot her underpants, Madonna refused to be photographed near Kylie, Elton and Lily pretended to enjoy each others company, and Natalie Imbruglia dodged questions about her forever delayed fourth album that was meant to be released in May.

But we know what you're all wondering...where's Dannii???


Let's just say Minogue Jr enjoyed her pre-show drinks a little too much. Those tiny Minogues and tequila shots don't mix folks.

Presenting your presenters

JOHNO
Johno is New Zealand born, bred and PROUD, and has a gorgeous Kiwi accent to prove it! He has lived in Melbourne for three years. Each week, he will report on the latest news concerning the New Zealand gay and lesbian scene. Johno has always had a passion for the music industy and spends hours on the net researching artists.

A wild child of the 80s, his first ever album was Hunting High and Lowahe (1985) by a-ha on cassette, and he'll be showcasing many of his childhood favourites during our "Tragic 80s Flashback" segment. The first CD he ever bought was The Best of Belinda, Volume 1 (1992) by Belinda Carlisle. He has seen Michael Jackson, Kylie Minogue, Pink, Scissor Sisters, Ricky Martin, Janet Jackson - just to name a few - live in concert and has met K.D. Lang and Dannii Minogue.

Johno has been at JOY 94.9 for the past 8 months, having successfully completed the "Taste Of Radio" course. He has since become a regular Wednesday daytime presenter and co-presented Boombox during its course.

PETRO
Petro is a young self-proclaimed pop nerd. A defining point in his life was at the age of 9 when he insisted his grandmother buy him his first album, the Spice Girls Spiceworld (1997) on cassette! Growing up, before a CD player became available, he'd sit by the radio for hours on end, his finger firmly pressed against the record button, waiting for his favourite songs to come up. Pop music became his life.

He is a trained singer, has been involved in musical theatre, and spends way too much time and money in JB Hifi. He is an avid CD collector with a collection of almost 200 albums alone, as well as dozens of music DVDs and singles. He has met many leading Aussie popettes including Dannii Minogue, Delta Goodrem, Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Vanessa Amorosi, Kate Miller-Heidke and Sophie Monk amongst others. He has seen the following internationally-acclaimed acts live: Kylie Minogue, Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Pink, Lily Allen, Justin Timberlake, Silverchair and U2.

Petro has been at JOY 94.9 for the past 8 months, having successfully completed the "Taste Of Radio" course. He has since become a regular presenter of Generation Next, presented several daytime shifts and co-presented Boombox during its course.

It's a premiere darling!

A brand new show is about to take the airwaves at JOY 94.9 ...and it's the best thing since sliced bread! No seriously, it really is.

Ok, so we may not look as fabulous as Eddy and Patsy, but we're popping open the bubbly in true Ab-Fab style, celebrating the first episode of Sound Museum which kicks off Tuesday, July 14th at 11pm!

Those who have tuned into Boombox over the past two months will be familiar with the likes of young pop nerd Petro and the seductive Kiwi voice of Johno. They promise to deliver you a one-stop weekly guide to the latest happenings of the ever-evolving music industry. They will discuss the big issues, present industry and artist news, analyse the weekly music charts, reveal music releases and touring schedules, plus plenty more. Then there's the great mix of music - album tracks, rarities, b-sides, remixes and mash-ups will be our specialty.

So make sure to be there when it all begins, this coming Tuesday at 11pm! Join in on the on-air celebrations by SMSing 0427JOY949 or emailing us onair@joy.org.au