Video Premiere: Will.I.Am & Britney Spears "Scream & Shout"

If you anxiously awaited the "Exclusive World Premiere" of the new video from will.i.am and Britney Spears during last night's episode of 'The X Factor', I'm guessing you were probably pretty disappointed to find that the clip had been edited down to a one-chorus version of the party anthem and Spears looks none to pleased to be showing it off. I mean I suppose it's understandable, right? The show is called The X Factor and is packed full of talentless wannabes -with the exception of Carly Rose Sonenclar and Simon Cowell's groups- so why dedicate a full 5 minutes (of the 2 hour show) to two of the industry's actual "x-factors"? [insert sarcasm]

But enough of my rant (I'd hate to draw comparisons to the hosting abilities of a Kardashian sister), let's get to the goods. Forget The X Factor, the V Factor's got it for you right here. V for Vetrano for-the-win!

Watch the FULL premiere of "Scream & Shout" from will.i.am's new album below and buy the single on iTunes now.

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Video Premiere: Josiah Leming "Twenty Twelve Eleven"

Josiah Leming is no stranger to the Tragic Kingdom. Over the summer, I featured the prodigy-like talent's release of a series of singles, including the radio-worthy "Love Me Or Not" and catchy-chorused "High". And with the release of his latest, "Twenty Twelve Eleven", the put-it-all-out-there songwriter strips it down and delivers a raw performance of a track that's much more personal than the previously mentioned summer jams.

As the singer works on the follow up to his one-year old Another Life LP, Leming will hit the road in 2013 to spend time with the people he cares most about: his fans. Watch the video, which was shot at the House Of Rock during his Blue Microphone session in Los Angeles, below and download the single on iTunes now.

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It's a "Woman's World" & Matt Morris is Just Living in It

On Wednesday, the "Turn Back Time" legend known only as Cher released her new single "Woman's World". Due to international leaks of early mixes of the single, Warner Brothers rushed its final mix and delivered it one day before Thanksgiving - which I am guessing left some Cher fans very thankful. The song -a woman-empowering club anthem with striking beats and slamming synths- is the first from the performer's new album, which is set to drop in 2013 and includes songs written by other power-pop divas Lady Gaga and P!nk.

"Woman's World" was written by Anthony Crawford, Paul Oakenfold and Matt Morris. Yes, that Matt Morris - the one I named an "Artist to Watch" in 2010 and later gave his debut album When Everything Breaks Open a spot on my Top 10 Albums of the Year list. Since then, Morris has been more active behind the scenes, writing with some of the top writers in the biz. But "Woman's World" isn't the first major cut for the talented songwriter. Matt is responsible for a slew of recognizable hits, including Kelly Clarkson's "Miss Independent", five of the songs from Christina Aguilera's Stripped record, and tracks for Justin Timberlake, Reba McEntire and Mary J. Blige.

I can only hope that this new single leads to many more and new music from one of my faves, Matt Morris. Listen to Cher's "Woman's World" below and pick up Morris' holiday single "My First Snow" on iTunes now.

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Wendesday Wrap Up: Double Dose

First off, I apologize for missing the Wednesday Wrap Up last week. A nasty cold got the best of me and I was down for the count. But in an effort to get you all caught up, I'm serving up two giant helpings of all of the biggest headlines in music over the past two weeks. Just click the links below to get all the news you're looking for - and there's a lot of good stuff here, so grab a turkey leg, a slice of Grandma's Pumpkin Pie and enjoy!

Here's some of the week's biggest headlines and stories:

- The new season of NBC's SMASH is returning on February 5th with Katherine McPhee & Jennifer Hudson, watch a four minute preview here. 

- Is Kelly Clarkson engaged? She tells Ellen why she's thankful this year and performs her new single "Catch My Breath"

- Nicki Minaj dropped her new EP 'The Re-Up' and the lead single's video "Freedom" 

- Ellie Goulding debuted her new single and video for "Figure 8" 

- AEG announced Bon Jovi's 2013 tour dates, check out when Because We Can - The Tour is coming to you 

- Will.I.Am released his new single featuring Britney Spears and debuted some new artwork

-  Kelly Clarkson debuted a track from Smoakstack Sessions Vol. 2 - a mashup of Alanis Morrisette's "That I Would Be Good" and Kings of Leon's "Use Somebody" 

- Rihanna bares all for GQ and debuts "Diamonds" video 

- 50 Cent revealed a new single and artwork which features Eminem and Adam Levine

- The ex-Spice Girls' Melanie C and Emma Bunton reunite on for a new track and video 

- Taylor Swift models and hits the cover of Bazaar

- Lana Del Rey and Taylor Swift hit the red carpet at the EMA's 

- Coldplay previews "Princess of China" featuring Rihanna from their Live DVD

- Ed Sheeran's debuts his "Give Me Love" video

- Carrie Underwood and Jimmy Fallon perform tracks from their lost country-rap album 

- Ke$ha premieres her "Die Young" video

- The premiere of Lana Del Rey's "Bel Air" video debuts online 

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Rihanna Asks Nashville's Mikky Ekko to "Stay"

It's no secret that Nashville is packed full of talent, but while most of the attention that falls on Music City is reserved for its Country royalty, the city has earned major street-cred in other genres this year as well. In fact, Rolling Stone magazine named Nashville the nation's Best Music Scene early this year and GQ featured the city's scene in an 8-page editorial spread. Rockers Jack White, Kings of Leon and The Black Keys all proudly call Nashville home, as does pop's Ke$ha and a slew of well-known singer-songwriters.

So when it came time for the Princess of R&B to look for talented folks to appear on her latest record, it was easy to see why Rihanna jumped on the Nashville band-wagon. Her seventh studio album Unapologetic drops today and features a slew of her industry peers from a variety of genres, including Eminem, David Guetta and a controversial duet with on-again boyfriend Chris Brown. But for Nashville residents, it was the addition of local pop-rocker, Mikky Ekko who lends his voice to the mid-tempo duet "Stay". Ekko is a Nashville-based singer who has been on the rise for several years with his artistic take on indie-pop music and is now added to the growing list of stars from Music City.

Listen to Rihanna's "Stay" featuring Mikky Ekko below and buy the track on iTunes - support Nashville's "home"boy.

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First Listen: Will.I.Am & Britney Spears "Scream & Shout"

This hot, new single hits radio on Monday afternoon, but Tragic Kingdom has it for you right now. Listen to to Will.I.Am's "Scream & Shout" featuring the one-and-only Miss Britney Spears. The club-thupping pop treat marks the second time the pair have recorded together - the first was on Britney's "Big Fat Bass" from her seventh studio record Femme Fatale. This time it's Spears lending her sultry vocal for Will.I.Am's second solo record willpower. The video for the song is set to premiere during a special Thanksgiving episode of the X Factor, in which Spears is a mentor.

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First Listen: Nicki Minaj's "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded The Re-Up"

Lately it seems that every hit album gets a makeover. A few more radio-friendly singles, glossy new packaging and in some cases a clever 'edition' title (i.e. Born to Die: The Paradise Edition). Apparently when it comes to rap superstar Nicki Minaj, your hit album gets two makeovers. The first edition of Pink Friday was released in November of 2011 (a year ago) and launched Minaj's commercial success with the singles "Your Love" and "Superbass". In April, Nicki delivered the followup Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, which included the summer smash "Starships". And on November 19th, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded The Re-Up (wow, that's a mouthful) will drop, which features the single "Freedom".

Pre-order the new edition of the record now on iTunes and listen to the 8 new tracks from 'The Re-Up' now below. 

Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded The Re-Up
1. Up In Flames
2. Freedom
3. Hell Yeah (feat. Parker)
4. High School (feat. Lil' Wayne)
5. I'm Legit (feat. Ciara)
6. I Endorse These Strippers (feat. Tyga)
7. The Boys (feat. Cassie)
8. Va Va Voom

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First Listen: Coldplay Live 2012

Arguably one of the biggest acts on the planet, Coldplay will release their 'Live' DVD/CD combo pack on November 19th from their widely successful Mylo Xyloto tour. If you're a diehard fan of the band, you likely saw their show in a city near you, or are going to a screening in a theater near you tonight. If you didn't get a chance to see Chris Martin & Co., this is your chance to relive all the neon lights (wristbands and all), musical genius and magic on Coldplay Live 2012.

You can listen to all 15 tracks from the band's energetic set below. And be sure to pick up the DVD/CD on November 19th on iTunes.

Coldplay - Coldplay Live 2012
1. Mylo Xyloto (Live)
2. Hurts Like Heaven (Live)
3. In My Place (Live)
4. Major Minus (Live)
5. Yellow (Live)
6. God Put a Smile Upon Your Face (Live)
7. Princess of China (with Rihanna) (Live)
8. Up In Flames (Live)
9. Viva La Vida (Live)
10. Charlie Brown (Live)
11. Paradise (Live)
12. Us Against the World (Live)
13. Clocks (Live)
14. Fix You (Live)
15. Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall (Live)

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First Listen: One Direction "Take Me Home" Bonus Tracks

Last week Tragic Kingdom delivered One Direction's sophomore album Take Me Home in its entirety, including the 4 additional tracks found on the Yearbook Edition. But any diehard One Direction fan knows that the standard edition of a 1D record simply won't do. 

So, in hopes to keep all you adolescent girls -and some of you older fans (you know who you are)- happy, I've got more from the British heartthrobs for you. Five more tracks found on the deluxe version of the record.  You're welcome. And as a thank you, please find your way to the left-hand side of the page and hit that 'Like' button for Tragic Kingdom's new Facebook page. That way you'll always be the first to hear new music before it hits stores. 

Then, hit the Play button below and enjoy more from One Direction's Liam, Harry, Louis, Zayn and Niall. 

One Direction - Take Me Home Bonus Tracks
14. Truly, Madly, Deeply
15. Magic
16. Irresistible
17. One Thing (Live)
18. I Wish (Live)

If you still haven't listened to 'Take Me Home (Yearbook Edition)', you can do that here, or you can buy it here.

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Video Premiere: Kelly Clarkson "Catch My Breath"

Kelly Clarkson debuted the video for her new empowering single "Catch My Breath" this morning. The Idol-diva, who is often scrutinized for her fluctuating weight, is looking smoking in this new clip. The single is the first from her upcoming greatest hits record - Greatest Hits - Chapter One, out November 19th. The compilation includes 14 of the singers powerhouse ballads, rocking anthems and 3 brand new tracks including "Don't Rush" -a duet with Vince Gill- and the lead single.

Watch the new video for "Catch My Breath" below and pre-order the greatest hits compilation now on iTunes.

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First Listen: Lana Del Rey "Paradise" EP

It's no secret that Born To Die from the controversial newcomer Lana Del Rey is one of my favorite records of the year. And when I learned that a re-release of the record -with NINE additional tracks- was on its way earlier in the year, I could hardly wait for more from the self-proclaimed gangsta Nancy Sinatra.

The "Paradise Edition" of Del Rey's successful debut drops November 13th, but if you're like me (and I know a few of you who are), you just can't wait a minute more... and who could blame you? 

Well Christmas (or rather November 13th) has come early because now you don't have to wait until then to hear the new tracks. Yes, I've done it again, securing all nine of the new tracks, including the reboot's lead single "Ride", for your listening pleasure. So grab yourself a toddy of the hot sorts, press play and get lost in 'paradise'. If you like what you hear, be sure to pick up the new EP on iTunes. 

Lana Del Rey - Paradise EP
1. Ride
2. America
3. Cola
4. Body Electric
5. Blue Velvet
6. Gods & Monsters
7. Yayo
8. Bel Air
9. Burning Desire (click here to listen to this track)

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Wednesday Wrap Up: 11/07/12

I get it, time is of the essence, and sometimes - especially during an election week - there's just not enough of it to keep up with the latest happenings in music. In an effort to save you time, I've compiled the highlights from this week. Consider it your hump day treat! Just click the links below to get all the news you're looking for. 

Here's some of the week's biggest headlines and stories:

- Mumford & Sons drop their new video for "Lover of the Light" 

- Ashlee Simpson announces new single and video with a preview 

- Carrie Underwood reveals "Two Black Cadillacs" as next single and shows off sleek new artwork

- Little Big Town release their new single & video for "Tornado"

- Coldplay will release Mylo Xyloto concert live in theaters later this month, watch a trailer and preview of "Paradise" now

- Ke$ha performs her new single "Die Young" on X Factor in Australia 

- No Doubt remove their new video after it offends Native Americans then perform it on X Factor UK

- Jimmy Fallon & The Roots join Christina Aguilera for a new take on her single "Your Body"

- Kelly Clarkson will release a second volume of her Smokestack Sessions, see the tracklisting here

- will.i.am reveals artwork for new single "Scream & Shout" with Britney Spears  

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First Listen: Christina Aguilera's New Album "Lotus"

Christina Aguilera has been sharing her gifted voice with the world since she landed a role on Disney's 'Mickey Mouse Club' alongside fellow Mouseketeer's Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Matt Morris and Ryan Gosling. After shedding her mouse ears Aguilera reinvented herself with each new album and era of her -now long- career. And while it hasn't always been easy for the controversial singer, she continues the fight to gain the respect that her impressive pipes deserve.

No one can argue that tracks like "Beautiful" and "The Voice Within" will likely earn her a spot among the greats, but her attempts at further reinvention haven't always proved successful. Her last two albums Back to Basics and Bionic, a role in Burlesque opposite Cher and a failed-marriage likely won't make it on Aguilera's list of accomplishments. 

But this 'fighter' isn't backing down. With the lead-mentor spot on NBC's successful 'The Voice' and a new single that is gaining momentum, Christina returns with Lotus, her seventh studio album. The album, dropping November 13, includes cameos by her fellow 'Voice' coaches Blake Shelton (on "Just A Fool") and Cee Lo Green, who lends his voice on "Make the World Move". Pre-order Lotus now on iTunes or listen to the Deluxe Edition of the album in full below. 

Christina Aguilera - Lotus (Deluxe Edition)
1. Lotus (Intro)
2. Army of Me
3. Red Hot Kinda Love
4. Make the World Move (Feat. Cee Lo Green)
5. Your Body
6. Let There Be Love
7. Sing For Me
8. Blank Page
9. Cease Fire
10. Around the World
11. Circles
12. Best of Me
13. Just A Fool (with Blake Shelton)
14. Light Up the Sky
15. Empty Words
16. Shut Up
17. Your Body (Martin Garrix Remix)

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First Listen: One Direction's New Album "Take Me Home"

One week from today, One Direction - currently the biggest boyband in the world - will drop their highly anticipated sophomore record Take Me Home. The collection of five young heartthrobs were picked to perform together on the UK's version of X Factor by Simon Cowell and shortly after caught the attention of young girls everywhere with their first album and catchy single "What Makes You Beautiful". But can defeat the dreaded curse of the sophomore slump or will they follow in the footsteps of the successful boybands before them ('N SYNC, Backstreet Boys, New Kids on the Block)?

Pre-order the record on iTunes now and stream it in its entirety below. And let me know what you think of the album in the comments below. Once you've learned all the words to these first 13 tracks, scroll below to listen to 4 more from the 'Yearbook Edition' of the album. Then, click here to hear 5 more bonus tracks!

One Direction - Take Me Home
1. Live While We're Young
2. Kiss You
3. Little Things
4. C'mon, C'mon
5. Last First Kiss
6. Heart Attack
7. Rock Me
8. Change My Mind
9. I Would
10. Over Again
11. Back for You
12. They Don't Know About Us
13. Summer Love

One Direction - Take Me Home (Yearbook Edition) Bonus Tracks
14. She's Not Afraid
15. Loved You First
16. Nobody Compares
17. Still the One

You can listen to 5 more tracks from the UK born boys here.
You can buy it here.

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Artist To Watch: Steve Moakler

It isn't often (in Nashville especially) that you go to a show and the entire audience is quietly captivated by the performer on stage, but when Steve Moakler took Douglas Corner's on October 16th he did just that. Debuting a variety of tracks so new that the ink hadn't yet dried on their page, the audience listened intently to each lyric and note as if children listening to a story before bed. It's clear at that moment they realize the person on stage has something of significance to say.

A blend of country and alt rock, almost raising question where he might fit on the spectrum, the tracks illustrate why one of Nashville's most promising new talents has been buzzing since the release of his Ben Rector co-produced album Watching Time Run. After that night's performance and a run through each of his two full length records, I predict Moakler the heir to the John Mayer thrown. A crown he'd likely be proud to wear (minus the douchey gossip surrounding Mayer's love life). And with a few more elements of mainstream production added to the new tracks, he could very well follow in those footsteps.

Download a free sampler of Moakler's music from Noisetrade below and check back for more from this talented singer-songwriter soon.

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