Listen! It's Vetrano!

Insight into my thoughts, rants, dreams and will include both written and video commentary in the coming months. Get ready, cause shit's about to get wildly inappropriate.

Josiah Leming

With a growing cult following, a North American tour and a new record in the works, Josiah Leming is anything but 'idle'. Find out more about this indie wonder-kid now.

Cassadee Pope

Following her win on NBC's hit series The Voice and fronting the pop-rock band Hey Monday, Cassadee Pope is preparing her place in country music. With a new single, album on the way and summer tour with Rascal Flatts, she's off to a great start.

Justin Timberlake

It's one of the most anticipated albums of the last 5 years, and now Justin Timberlake is readying the release of his third solo record, The 20/20 Experience with his new hit single "Suit & Tie".

Five Knives

Five Knives is Tragic Kingdom's predicted breakout hit for 2013. Get to know Anna Worstell and the mysterious men behind the masks now.

The CO

The pop-rock trio, The CO, return with their long-awaited sophomore album. Listen to 'Keep It Together' on Tragic Kingdom now.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Carrie Adds New Accolades to the List

First up, plagiarizer? It seems Underwood's new single, "Cowboy Casanova", is being accused of sounding awfully familiar to a song by an unknown country lady, Brittany McDonald. Apparently "Casanova"'s co-writer, Brett James, met with McDonald and heard her song, "Bang!", and loved it. Months later the Carrie single hit the airwaves. I admit that they have similar takes on the upbeat country song, but it is certainly not like Carrie pulled a Beyonce on Kelly Clarkson's "Already Gone". Take a listen to "Bang!" and weigh in.



It's unfortunate that they sound similar, but the contr
oversy hasn't stopped her fans. "Cowboy Casanova" is already the fastest selling single of Carrie's career, making it her 11th consecutive #1 single, the first time an artist has ever achieved that feat. And not only is it the fastest selling single for Carrie, it's also the fastest rising single of the year at country radio, jumping to #11 only a week after it's impact date, on September 14th. Billboard reports that country radio Program Directors were dying to "get their hands on new Carrie Underwood music". And they weren't kidding, the single was reported to be spinning at 100% of country radio stations after its release date. Well done, lady!

Secondly, Underwood recently revealed her new wax figure (above) at the famed Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas. The similarities in these things are good enough for me. Two of Ms. Underwood in one small place?! Where was I when this went down?


Next, Carrie is set to receive this year's Harmony Award on December 12th. The award is presented each year at Nashville's Symphony Ball to artists who have shown continued support and interest in the music of Nashville. Other honorees include: LeeAnn Rimes, Rascal Flatts, Amy Grant, Trisha Yearwood, and Martina McBride, who accepted the award last year. Congrats Carrie! That trophy case must be getting quite full.


The country diva has also recently hit the scenes with her new sassy video for her controversial single,
Cowboy Casanova, today. The video was leaked earlier this week and I couldn't wait to get it out to all of you. This is the first time we see Carrie get in touch with her inner vixen - well, we saw her crashing windows and such in "Before He Cheats" and "Last Name", but this is serious - she has choreography, costumes, and the whole nine yards! This is sure to be one of her best videos to date. Plus, the scene of her in the black number and hat, it's very "Circus" ala Britney Spears, but we love it in ways we probably shouldn't announce here. But, take a look for yourself at the premiere of "Cowboy Casanova".



And lastly, Underwood is set to take the WalMart Soundcheck stage on October 15th, singing tracks from the new album Play On, as well as an exclusive interview. Idol Insider, of course, will have all the media for you then, but in the meantime, check out this preview.



So, there's your latest dose of Carrie Underwood, but keep it here because with a hot new album ready to hit shelves there will be a lot more delicious Underwood news to come!

Living in Sin is the New Thing

Britney debuted her new single, "3", this morning on the Elvis Duran radio show. The song, which will be on her greatest hits collection, The Singles Collection, out in November, will impact radio starting today with a video to come in the next month. Britney, who just finished her "Circus" tour, is said to be filming the video for "3" in L.A. in three weeks. The song is catchy, poppy, and about threesomes (ha!), written and produced by her long time friend Max Martin, it will sure to make an positive impact on the upcoming release. 

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Carrie Gets Inducted

While Kelly & Co. were being Divas for VH1's special, Carrie Underwood was busy being inducted into the Oklahoma Country Music Hall of Fame. At the event, Carrie took the stage to sing her new single, "Cowboy Casanova", for the first time. Check out the flawless performance.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Miss Divas?

On Thursday, VH1 revived its "Divas" series with Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Adele, Miley Cyrus, Jordin Sparks, Leona Lewis, and hosted by Paula Abdul. Now, my first thought was they needed to see a definition of diva because the line up was a little mixed. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Jordin Sparks, but a diva?? Not quite. She needs about 10 more power ballads and at least one more headlining tour, when she isn't opening for Britney Spears.

It was quite heavy with Idol alums, especially with Abdul hosting the evening's events. I would have gladly traded Sparks for the country diva, Carrie Underwood. But, I guess she wasn't available, since she's finalizing her new album, Play On, due out November 3rd. And don't even get me started with Miley Cyrus. I get that she's popular and kids around the world love her, but a DIVA??? Not now, not ever! No offense to the Miley fans, but she's just not.

There were some highlights though and ultimately I was pleased with the show. Kelly Clarkson provided the most Diva-licious moments of the evening with her beautifully arrangement on her single, "Already Gone" and her rocking duet with Melissa Etheridge to close the show. However, it's becoming quite clear that the girl loves to eat. And Kelly's my girl, the few times I've "run" into her (some call it stalking, I just call it fate), she's looked healthy and trim, but lately the girl is busting at her seams and we're hoping her upcoming tour gives her some much needed time off from the food court.

Check out Kelly's performances here:



Paula Abdul hosted the evening, kicking it off with a "performance" that included a medley of her hits. It was more of Paula dancing and less of her singing (meaning none at all). Her hosting ability made sense for the shows theme, but it didn't serve as the most gracious choice. However, I did love her spot-on impersonation of Ellen DeGeneres.

Paula Abdul's Medley of Hits, for those that forgot she had any, as well as some of her monologues worth watching:








Jennifer Hudson gave two performances that embodied the definition of the word "diva", as she took the "Spotlight" with her first song and then slowed it down for a touching duet with her childhood idol, Stevie Wonder. Leona Lewis is truly a voice of our generation and, along with Kelly, a new Diva. Her performance of her new single, "Happy", was incredible and the duet with Cyndi Lauper on "True Colors" was just as good. See for yourself:


Adele is one of those "real" chicks. She's just your average girl - looks average, has an average personality - but when the girl opens her mouth it's nothing but above average! She's a legend in the making. Her live version of "Hometown Glory" gave me chills and her performance of "Video" with India.Arie was one of my favorites of the night.



Jordin Sparks chose an upbeat number, her new single "S.O.S. (Let The Music Play)", to start her set and then followed it up with a power ballad, singing "Broken Wing" with Martina McBride. And Jordin was brilliant, but Martina is starting to look and sound like this whole thing isn't as natural for her as it once was. Poor girl, being outshined by teenager is hard.



Then, of course, Miley Cyrus (who I still don't see as a Diva, but will put that aside) performed her new single "Party in the U.S.A." for hundreds of adoring fans. It was certainly not a showstopper and I will likely forget about it in a couple of days, just as soon as the sound of her screeching is out of my head. But, her version of "If It Makes You Happy" with Sheryl Crow is something I won't soon forget. Mainly because I wish I could have seen Sheryl's face when she was given the news of her duet partner. Someone sure picked the short straw.

All in all, it was a night to remember, and I look forward to even more Diva moments in 2010. I'm hoping for a lineup that includes some big power house divas, like Mariah, Whitney, Christina, Beyonce, and maybe even they'll finally give Carrie her chance. ;) Here's hoping!

Monday, September 14, 2009

Kelly & Other Celebs Unleash

Kelly Clarkson took to her blog to react to Kanye's behavior at last night's VMA's and the girl is pissed! Other celebs reacted via Twitter and the world is a buzz about Kanye West's douchery.

On her blog, Kelly Clarkson wrote:

Dear Kanye,

What happened to you as a child?? Did you not get hugged enough?? Something must have happened to make you this way and I think we’re all just curious as to what would make a grown man go on national television and make a talented artist, let alone teenager, feel like shit. I mean, I’ve seen you do some pretty shitty things, but you just keep amazing me with your tactless, asshole ways. It’s absolutely fascinating how much I don’t like you. I like everyone. I even like my asshole ex that cheated on me over you…which is pretty odd since I don’t even personally know you. The best part of this evening is that you weren’t even up for THIS award and yet you still have a problem with the outcome. Is winning a moon man that much of a life goal?? You can have mine if it will shut you up. Is it that important, really??

I was actually nominated in the same category that Taylor won and I was excited for her…so why can’t you be?? I’m not even mad at you for being an asshole…I just pity you because you’re a sad human being.

On a side note, Beyonce has always been a class act and proved again tonight that she still is. Go TEXAS!!

Taylor Swift, you outsell him ….that’s why he’s bitter. You know I love your work! Keep it up girl!

KC

What the Twitter-verse has to say:

Adam Lambert: "Kanye needs to chill. He freaks out every year. It ain't that deep man."
Kellie Pickler: "Tator Tot, you handled yourself with Grace. Kanye, go grow som f-ing balls bitch! don't mess with my lil' sis!!"
Danny Gokey: "I have one question - How could you be so heartless"
Joel Madden: "WOW Taylor Swift's first VMA and she didn't even get to ENJOY it. Kanye You were just a bully on that one man."
The All-American Rejects: "Kanye West is a f***ing a**hole"
P!nk: "Kanye west is the biggest piece of s**t on earth. Quote me."
David Henrie: "immature arrogant child. that needs to be spanked in the face."
Jordin Sparks: "I know I am late, but really Kanye? Really? Taylor Swift is the sweetest girl ever & Beyonce is so gracious. Not right at all!"
Chris Richardson: "It's so funny to anticipate the "boo's""

What Taylor had to say:

When asked about the incident, she said:
"Well, I was standing on stage because I was really excited because I had just won the award. And then I was really excited because Kanye West was on stage. And then I wasn't so excited anymore after that."
But it is clear that celebs in every direction support her:
"I've been getting so many text messages and everybody's been really nice. So I've had a really, really fun night. It's been interesting definitely. It's definitely been an interesting night."
Rather than say anything mean about the douche, she says:
"I don't know him, and I've never met him, so… I don't want to start anything because I had a great night tonight."

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Re-Crap!

The night, that I USED to wait all year for disappointed...again! Maybe it's because the cable station that claims to be Music Television hasn't shown a music video in over 5 years, but it was one of the most disappointing nights in music!

The show kicked off with a tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, which definitely delivered some amaze-balls dancing and Janet rocked it, but it didn't really live up to its hype. Madonna gave a very "unique" intro speech about the very little she knew about him and then reminded us he was a human being.  Then, the first award of the night, Best Female Video, was awarded to Taylor Swift. I wasn't a fan of MTV's choice, but Kanye's reaction was completely uncalled for and he should be banned from any future events that would make him leave his house.



After all that nonsense, Taylor performed her song "You Belong To Me" on the subway and then finished in the streets of New York on top of a Taxi. However, it was clear that the performance was pre-taped since MTV accidentally cut to the beginning of the video again later in the performance. Then, after Taylor's performance we were entertained by one of the award shows most nominated artists, Lady GaGa. Her performance was good, but left us a little disturbed.

Then, the award for Best Pop Video was awarded to my girl, Britney. Unfortunately Britney couldn't be there due to her tour, but she pre-taped an acceptance speech which almost saved the disastrous show, but then I remembered the MTV allowed Kristin Cavallari to present the award and accept it on Britney's behalf. Just not cool, she shouldn't even be famous.



The best part of the night was when Kanye lost Best Male Video to T.I. and then lost Best Hip Hop Video to Eminem. Luckily he stayed in his seat, but we were sure glad to hear the crowd Boo whenever his name was mentioned. He dug his own grave, hopefully he'll jump into it and stay there. More awards were given out and Lady GaGa took home Best New Artist in a very interesting outfit, that I'm still trying to understand.

In one of the most amazing moments I have EVER seen from a celebrity. Beyonce went up to accept the award for Video of the Year and reminisced about the first time she won a VMA with Destiny's Child, saying it was one of the "most exciting moment's" of her life and then invited Taylor Swift up to have her "moment".



To close out the night, Jay Z and Alicia Keys nailed their performance, but it was a bit lack luster. Unfortunately, a night that used to provide a lot of crazy surprises and special performances has lost it's swagger. Maybe 2010 will get back on track, but we're not holding our breath. However, my heart IS beating a little faster for the premiere of Divas on Thursday! Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis, Jordin Sparks, and Jennifer Hudson are a new set of Divas and I cannot wait to see what that show delivers - let's hope it packs more punch than the VMA's.

UPDATE: KANYE APOLOGIZES...KINDA
After being booed, Kanye West left the awards and then sent out this "apology":

I'M SOOOOO SORRY TO TAYLOR SWIFT AND HER FANS AND HER MOM. I SPOKE TO HER MOTHER RIGHT AFTER AND SHE SAID THE SAME THING MY MOTHER WOULD'VE SAID. SHE IS VERY TALENTED! I LIKE THE LYRICS ABOUT BEING A CHEERLEADER AND SHE'S IN THE BLEACHERS! ........................ I'M IN THE WRONG FOR GOING ON STAGE AND TAKING AWAY FROM HER MOMENT!................. BEYONCE'S VIDEO WAS THE BEST OF THIS DECADE!!!! I'M SORRY TO MY FANS IF I LET YOU GUYS DOWN!!!! I'M SORRY TO MY FRIENDS AT MTV. I WILL APOLOGIZE TO TAYLOR 2MRW. WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD!!!! EVERYBODY WANNA BOOOOO ME BUT I'M A FAN OF REAL POP CULTURE!!! NO DISRESPECT BUT WE WATCHIN' THE SHOW AT THE CRIB RIGHT NOW CAUSE ... WELL YOU KNOW!!!! I'M STILL HAPPY FOR TAYLOR!!!! BOOOYAAAWWWW!!!! YOU ARE VERY VERY TALENTED!!! I GAVE MY AWARDS TO OUTKAST WHEN THEY DESERVED IT OVER ME... THAT'S WHAT IT IS!!!!!!! I'M NOT CRAZY YALL, I'M JUST REAL. SORRY FOR THAT!!! I REALLY FEEL BAD FOR TAYLOR AND I'M SINCERELY SORRY!!! MUCH RESPECT!!!!!

TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT!!

Tonight is one of my favorite nights of the year! The 2009 MTV Video Music Awards kick off at 9pm Eastern. Be there as Lady GaGa, Cobra Starship, Beyonce and possibly Britney Spears take the stage. And tonight will also feature a once in a lifetime tribute to Michael Jackson by none other than his sister, Janet. This is your warning not to miss the event. And if you do, I'll have all the highlights here tomorrrow.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

It's Confirmed! Idol has a new judge!

It has been confirmed that Ellen DeGeneres will be the official new judge on the new season of American Idol. She made the announcement yesterday that she will be joining the judges panel as the voice of the people when the show premieres in January. I wonder how her and Simon will get along, it's definitely not going to be as catty as Paula's antics. Check out Ellen making the announcement below:


What do you think of this decision? Is Ellen the right choice?

Sunday, September 6, 2009

She CAN sing...sometimes!

For the first time during The Circus Starring Britney Spears Tour, Ms. Spears took the mic...and sang! And guess what folks? It was awesome! When the pop starlet took the stage in Greensboro, NC last night, Brit-Brit sang a cover of Alanis Morissette's "You Oughta Know". It rocked and I wish I would have been there to see it.

The bad news: I wasn't there.
The good news: Based on the past few months of great Britney appearances, it looks like she's got her swagger and confidence back and is ready to throw down.

I can't wait for the next tour, hoping she will do even more of her live, rock moments!

UPDATED WITH BETTER VIDEO:


Thursday, September 3, 2009

Idol Insider Presents: Cowboy Casanova

Now that I've hyped it, check it out for yourself and let me know what ya'll think!


Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Only A Matter Of Time

So, it's here! I got a first listen to Carrie Underwood's new single, "Cowboy Casanova", which I absolutely loved!! The song, an uptempo-foot stomper, will sure to be the hottest song of the fall. On Underwood's previous two albums, she has released ballads as her lead singles, while this time she definitely shows off her inner Shania and pulls out a showstopper.

Carrie, the current ACM Entertainer Of The Year, is gunning for that top stop again and she may just have it on lock with this new album. It is definitely shaping up to be one of excellence. And considering she is releasing it a day after my birthday (such an obvious attempt at trying to win me over), I can only assume the lyrics to her lead single, "Cowboy Casanova", are about your one and only Idol Insider.
"He's a good-time cowboy Casanova
Leaning up against the record machine
Looks like a cool drink of water
But he's candy-coated misery
He's the devil in disguise
A snake with blue eyes
And he only comes out at night
Gives you feelings that you don't want to fight
You better run for your life"
Come on, Carrie, could you be any less obvious?! It's so clear you're into me.


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