Los Lobos, the iconic East Los Angeles band that elevated that helped bring Chicano music to the masses over the last 50 years, is the subject of the feature-length documentary with the working title “Los Lobos Native Sons,” currently in production and slated for a 2025 release. The film features testimonials from George Lopez, Linda Ronstadt, Tom Waits, Dolores Huerta, Bonnie Raitt, Flaco Jimenez, Cheech Marin, a trailer below.
Formed more than 50 years ago in East Los Angeles, the group is unique and versatile, able to play roots rock, Musica Mexicana, soul, folk and a galaxy of other styles. The film is co-directed by veteran filmmaker, producer, and editor Doug Blush and photographer/filmmaker Piero F. Giunti, and produced by Robert Corsini and Flavio Morales.
Blush says, “Los Lobos, as much as any modern band, has expanded and re-defined what’s possible in American music, and in their phenomenal half-century and counting,...
Formed more than 50 years ago in East Los Angeles, the group is unique and versatile, able to play roots rock, Musica Mexicana, soul, folk and a galaxy of other styles. The film is co-directed by veteran filmmaker, producer, and editor Doug Blush and photographer/filmmaker Piero F. Giunti, and produced by Robert Corsini and Flavio Morales.
Blush says, “Los Lobos, as much as any modern band, has expanded and re-defined what’s possible in American music, and in their phenomenal half-century and counting,...
- 4/17/2024
- by Jem Aswad
- Variety Film + TV
Mario Van Peebles has been tapped to direct “That’ll Be the Day,” the story of how Buddy Holly and other musicians of the late 1950s helped give birth to rock ‘n’ roll and influence the wider societal and cultural landscape, including the civil rights movement.
Music has been central to much of Van Peebles’ work, from his 1991 gangster movie “New Jack City” to his work on “Wu-Tang: An American Saga,” which he co-executive produced for Hulu. Van Peebles is currently writing a musical stage tribute to his father Melvin Van Peebles, to be performed at New York City’s Lincoln Center later this year.
“America’s tumultuous cultural melting pot has produced transcendent musical talent, including Buddy Holly, who was our first bad ass rock ’n’ roll nerd,” Van Peebles said in a statement.
His 2003 docudrama “Baadasssss!” pays homage to his father’s groundbreaking film “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song.” His latest film,...
Music has been central to much of Van Peebles’ work, from his 1991 gangster movie “New Jack City” to his work on “Wu-Tang: An American Saga,” which he co-executive produced for Hulu. Van Peebles is currently writing a musical stage tribute to his father Melvin Van Peebles, to be performed at New York City’s Lincoln Center later this year.
“America’s tumultuous cultural melting pot has produced transcendent musical talent, including Buddy Holly, who was our first bad ass rock ’n’ roll nerd,” Van Peebles said in a statement.
His 2003 docudrama “Baadasssss!” pays homage to his father’s groundbreaking film “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song.” His latest film,...
- 4/3/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Though it took far too many years to get a solo film for the titular character, Marvel's "Black Widow" finally arrived in 2021. Despite the fact that Natasha Romanov (Scarlett Johansson) had already died in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by that point, at least we got a proper send-off for the character and the introduction of Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, the clear Mvp of the film.
We also got a really fun performance from David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov, aka Red Guardian, who, along with Melina Vostokoff (Rachel Weisz), acted as sleeper Russian agents living in Ohio with the young Yelena (Violet McGraw) and Natasha (Ever Anderson). At the beginning of the film, these four are living as a family undercover, but when they're made, they have to take off in a rush for a flight to Cuba, in fear for their lives. Harbour made a suggestion for that sequence...
We also got a really fun performance from David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov, aka Red Guardian, who, along with Melina Vostokoff (Rachel Weisz), acted as sleeper Russian agents living in Ohio with the young Yelena (Violet McGraw) and Natasha (Ever Anderson). At the beginning of the film, these four are living as a family undercover, but when they're made, they have to take off in a rush for a flight to Cuba, in fear for their lives. Harbour made a suggestion for that sequence...
- 12/18/2023
- by Jenna Busch
- Slash Film
“Don’t be such a dreamer,” says Bob (Esai Morales) to his younger brother, to which soon-to-be teen star Ritchie Valens (Lou Diamond Phillips), né Richard Valenzuela, quickly retorts, “My dreams are pure rock ‘n’ roll.” It’s the kind of blunt, overearnest exchange found in countless music-based biopics, but it also exemplifies La Bamba’s penchant for the cartoonishly archetypal. Indeed, everyone surrounding Ritchie is stripped of both nuance and agency as their roles in the film rarely extend beyond fueling or antagonizing the future icon.
Ritchie’s girlfriend, Donna (Danielle von Zerneck), the namesake of one of his biggest hits, is little more than a poodle skirt and a cheery smile, while his doting mother, Connie (Rosanna DeSoto), is the quintessential ultra-supportive parent. Bob is certainly the most fully fleshed out of this trio, but even most of his personal ups and downs are presented as being directly...
Ritchie’s girlfriend, Donna (Danielle von Zerneck), the namesake of one of his biggest hits, is little more than a poodle skirt and a cheery smile, while his doting mother, Connie (Rosanna DeSoto), is the quintessential ultra-supportive parent. Bob is certainly the most fully fleshed out of this trio, but even most of his personal ups and downs are presented as being directly...
- 10/16/2023
- by Derek Smith
- Slant Magazine
It’s officially Filipino Heritage Month and we’re highlighting Filipino celebrities who have shattered boundaries and left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry.
Bruno Mars Bruno Mars — Photo: John Angelillo/Upi/Shutterstock
With over 200 million records sold worldwide, Mars, 37, has become synonymous with the Billboard charts. This trailblazing Filipino artist has revolutionized the entertainment industry with an impressive collection of accolades, including 11 Grammy Awards and multiple Billboard chart-topping hits. As a songwriter, producer and performer, he has hooked audiences with his infectious blend of pop, R&b and funk.
Olivia Rodrigo
Rodrigo, 20, made a meteoric splash onto the music scene in 2021 with the release of her Grammy-winning debut album “Sour”, with her single “Drivers License” giving her the record of youngest artist to score a No. 1 in the UK at the age of 18.
Tia Carrere Tia Carrere — Photo: Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock
Carrrere,...
Bruno Mars Bruno Mars — Photo: John Angelillo/Upi/Shutterstock
With over 200 million records sold worldwide, Mars, 37, has become synonymous with the Billboard charts. This trailblazing Filipino artist has revolutionized the entertainment industry with an impressive collection of accolades, including 11 Grammy Awards and multiple Billboard chart-topping hits. As a songwriter, producer and performer, he has hooked audiences with his infectious blend of pop, R&b and funk.
Olivia Rodrigo
Rodrigo, 20, made a meteoric splash onto the music scene in 2021 with the release of her Grammy-winning debut album “Sour”, with her single “Drivers License” giving her the record of youngest artist to score a No. 1 in the UK at the age of 18.
Tia Carrere Tia Carrere — Photo: Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock
Carrrere,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
Kelly Clarkson closed out a week of performances on The Kelly Clarkson Show with a dazzling rendition of “Magic” by Coldplay. The song first appeared on the band’s album Ghost Stories, released in 2014. Joined by her band Y’all, Clarkson added a soulful simmer to the record during the performance.
Earlier this week, Clarkson delivered new renditions of songs like “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens and “Faithfully” by Journey featuring Jude Keyz. She also broke her streak of performing only covers with a special debut live performance of her latest single,...
Earlier this week, Clarkson delivered new renditions of songs like “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens and “Faithfully” by Journey featuring Jude Keyz. She also broke her streak of performing only covers with a special debut live performance of her latest single,...
- 4/21/2023
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Kelly Clarkson continues to keep audiences on their toes with her Kellyoke choices, this time turning back the clock and reviving an early rock and roll classic.
On Tuesday, April 20, Clarkson and her Kelly Clarkson Show backing outfit, My Band Y’all, delivered a bustling rendition of “La Bamba,” the Mexican folk song that Ritchie Valens scored a star-making hit with in 1958.
“La Bamba” was the first Spanish-language track to crack the Top 40 in the U.S., rising all the way to Number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time.
On Tuesday, April 20, Clarkson and her Kelly Clarkson Show backing outfit, My Band Y’all, delivered a bustling rendition of “La Bamba,” the Mexican folk song that Ritchie Valens scored a star-making hit with in 1958.
“La Bamba” was the first Spanish-language track to crack the Top 40 in the U.S., rising all the way to Number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time.
- 4/20/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Were you as pleased as we were that the judges saved the Mantis on the April 5 episode of “The Masked Singer”? We liked this fellow from the moment he strode on stage and blew the roof off the joint with his rollicking rendition of “Old Time Rock and Roll” by Bob Seger.
We were disappointed when he lost the Battle Royale to Dandelion after they duelled on the ditty “(I’ve Got A) Golden Ticket” from “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” But then we were delighted when Robin Thicke rang the Ding Dong Keep It On bell and kept him in the competiton.
We’ve rewatched both of the performances by the Mantis as well as his clues package. Forget those guesses by the judges that Dandelion is Kevin Bacon, Dennis Quaid,Keanu Reeves or Bruce Springsteen. We are convinced we’ve cracked the code and know the name...
We were disappointed when he lost the Battle Royale to Dandelion after they duelled on the ditty “(I’ve Got A) Golden Ticket” from “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” But then we were delighted when Robin Thicke rang the Ding Dong Keep It On bell and kept him in the competiton.
We’ve rewatched both of the performances by the Mantis as well as his clues package. Forget those guesses by the judges that Dandelion is Kevin Bacon, Dennis Quaid,Keanu Reeves or Bruce Springsteen. We are convinced we’ve cracked the code and know the name...
- 4/19/2023
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Fox’s The Masked Singer Season 9 is almost over, as viewers won’t see any new masks following episode 9. But there’s still plenty of mystery regarding the remaining singers who have yet to reveal their identities. So, which singers remain before the Redemption Round? Here’s what to know.
[Spoiler alert: Possible The Masked Singer Season 9 spoilers ahead.]
‘The Masked Singer’ Season 9 | Fox via Getty Images Every singer still masked before ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 9 Redemption Round
The Masked Singer Season 9 Episode 9 marked the last time viewers would see new masks hit the stage. And there are still several singers who have yet to have their identities revealed.
The masked singers remaining in the competition after episode 9 are Medusa, California Roll, UFO, Mantis, Macaw, and Gargoyle.
Episode 9 introduced UFO to the stage. UFO and Lamp were the newcomers to the competition, and they competed against Dandelion — a returning singer from episode 8. Dandelion...
[Spoiler alert: Possible The Masked Singer Season 9 spoilers ahead.]
‘The Masked Singer’ Season 9 | Fox via Getty Images Every singer still masked before ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 9 Redemption Round
The Masked Singer Season 9 Episode 9 marked the last time viewers would see new masks hit the stage. And there are still several singers who have yet to have their identities revealed.
The masked singers remaining in the competition after episode 9 are Medusa, California Roll, UFO, Mantis, Macaw, and Gargoyle.
Episode 9 introduced UFO to the stage. UFO and Lamp were the newcomers to the competition, and they competed against Dandelion — a returning singer from episode 8. Dandelion...
- 4/19/2023
- by Lauren Weiler
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For the first time in a while, many fans of The Masked Singer are stumped. A new mask, Mantis, was introduced during The Masked Singer Season 9’s WB Movie Night on April 5. His voice and clues have led viewers to a wide variety of predictions, including Neil Patrick Harris, Kevin Bacon, Bob Odenkirk, Taran Killam, Jim Carrey, and more. However, one popular guess makes the most sense to us. Here’s all the evidence that Lou Diamond Phillips is behind Mantis on The Masked Singer.
Mantis performs on ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 9’s WB Movie Night. | Michael Becker/Fox Mantis changed his voice between two performances on ‘The Masked Singer’
One of the ways Mantis has stumped fans is his voice change between songs. He first performed Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock & Roll,” showing off a raspy voice with musical talent that might not have been professionally trained.
Mantis performs on ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 9’s WB Movie Night. | Michael Becker/Fox Mantis changed his voice between two performances on ‘The Masked Singer’
One of the ways Mantis has stumped fans is his voice change between songs. He first performed Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock & Roll,” showing off a raspy voice with musical talent that might not have been professionally trained.
- 4/6/2023
- by Elise Nelson
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Bobby Fuller was a brilliant musical talent, but his artistic legacy is as much about what could’ve been as it is about what he accomplished in his far too short life. He was a burgeoning rock and roll star on a chart-topping trajectory before he died at the age of 23 in mysterious circumstances.
Fuller’s death was officially ruled to be a suicide, but the strange details in the case compel some friends and family to believe in various conspiracy theories to rationalize the tragedy.
The Bobby Fuller Four | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Some fans theorize that he was murdered
Everything changed on July 18, 1966. That was the day Fuller was found dead in his mother’s car outside of his Hollywood apartment.
His cold hands held a plastic hose leading to a can of gasoline in the car. The weirdest part is that Fuller’s body was in...
Fuller’s death was officially ruled to be a suicide, but the strange details in the case compel some friends and family to believe in various conspiracy theories to rationalize the tragedy.
The Bobby Fuller Four | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Some fans theorize that he was murdered
Everything changed on July 18, 1966. That was the day Fuller was found dead in his mother’s car outside of his Hollywood apartment.
His cold hands held a plastic hose leading to a can of gasoline in the car. The weirdest part is that Fuller’s body was in...
- 3/5/2023
- by Sam Hines
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Buddy Holly was looking for a change in his music career in 1959. After several years of performing and recording with The Crickets, he wanted to branch out as a producer. He scouted new talent on his Decca record label; and came across two men whose lives he would exponentially change. One was country superstar Waylon Jennings. The other was Lou Giordano, my father. Sixty-four years after the day the music died, when Buddy perished in a plane crash alongside Ritchie Valens, the Big Bopper, and pilot Roger Peterson, I’m looking back at my father’s special relationship with Buddy
Buddy Holly and Lou Giordano | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images/Brunswick Records Lou Giordano was a jack-of-all-trades who dreamed of becoming a singing superstar
My father, Lou Giordano, was a man who always dreamed big. He lived life to the fullest, or at least as full as a man could...
Buddy Holly and Lou Giordano | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images/Brunswick Records Lou Giordano was a jack-of-all-trades who dreamed of becoming a singing superstar
My father, Lou Giordano, was a man who always dreamed big. He lived life to the fullest, or at least as full as a man could...
- 2/3/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly had a connection that went way beyond their respective music careers. When Buddy started in the music business, Elvis’s kindness helped the teenage musician during his first big gig. What did the king of rock and roll do that helped get Buddy’s professional career out of the starting gate? His goodwill made quite an impression on the Lubbock, TX native.
Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly | Bettmann/Getty Images/Gab Archive/Redferns Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly’s professional careers began within one year of each other
In 1954, just one year out of high school, Elvis began his singing career with the legendary Sun Records label in Memphis, Tn. In late 1955, his recording contract was sold to RCA Victor, and by 1956, he was an international sensation.
Buddy considered a professional career two years before Elvis, in 1952, while still a high school student. He made...
Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly | Bettmann/Getty Images/Gab Archive/Redferns Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly’s professional careers began within one year of each other
In 1954, just one year out of high school, Elvis began his singing career with the legendary Sun Records label in Memphis, Tn. In late 1955, his recording contract was sold to RCA Victor, and by 1956, he was an international sensation.
Buddy considered a professional career two years before Elvis, in 1952, while still a high school student. He made...
- 2/3/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Baz Luhrmann‘s “Elvis” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in late May, the buzz for its young star Austin Butler grew quickly to a deafening din. The film’s reception was punctuated by a 12-minute standing ovation, and the conventional wisdom was that the Oscar — and the Golden Globe and the SAG Award, for that matter — was Butler’s to lose. As of this writing, the 31-year-old is the third choice in Gold Derby’s combined Best Actor odds at 9/2, trailing top pick Brendan Fraser for “The Whale” at 69/20 and Colin Farrell for “The Banshees of Inisherin” at 4/1.
So what does Oscar history tell us about his chances of getting nominated for “Elvis”? When it comes to Butler, he will be looking to follow in the grand tradition of actors who have transformed themselves into real-life music legends. And he surely delivers an incandescent performance as Elvis Aron Presley.
So what does Oscar history tell us about his chances of getting nominated for “Elvis”? When it comes to Butler, he will be looking to follow in the grand tradition of actors who have transformed themselves into real-life music legends. And he surely delivers an incandescent performance as Elvis Aron Presley.
- 11/4/2022
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
Art Laboe, the pioneering Los Angeles DJ who championed the Oldies but Goodies format and was revered for sharing on-air dedications with listeners, died Oct. 7 in Palm Springs, Calif.
Laboe was the founder of the Original Sound record label and the host of the long-running “Art Laboe Connection” syndicated radio program. He was one of the first DJs to play rock ‘n’ roll and R&b on West Coast radio stations.
Just last month, Laboe, who was born Aug. 7, 1925, celebrated his 79-year anniversary as an active radio personality. His “Art Laboe Connection” aired in Los Angeles on Kday-fm on Sunday nights, as well as many other stations throughout the Southwest. What turned out to be his final broadcast aired Sunday night, after being recorded last week.
“My favorite place to be is behind that microphone,” Laboe said at the time of the 79-year anniversary in September. “I have one of...
Laboe was the founder of the Original Sound record label and the host of the long-running “Art Laboe Connection” syndicated radio program. He was one of the first DJs to play rock ‘n’ roll and R&b on West Coast radio stations.
Just last month, Laboe, who was born Aug. 7, 1925, celebrated his 79-year anniversary as an active radio personality. His “Art Laboe Connection” aired in Los Angeles on Kday-fm on Sunday nights, as well as many other stations throughout the Southwest. What turned out to be his final broadcast aired Sunday night, after being recorded last week.
“My favorite place to be is behind that microphone,” Laboe said at the time of the 79-year anniversary in September. “I have one of...
- 10/11/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Art Laboe, the DJ and music promoter who spent 79 continuous years on the radio, was an innovator of the compilation album and coined and trademarked the term “Oldies but Goodies,” has died. He was 97.
Laboe died peacefully Friday at his home in Palm Springs after a brief bout with pneumonia, Joanna Morones, a spokesperson for his production company, Dart Entertainment, announced.
He was on the air as recently as Sunday night with his pre-recorded The Art Laboe Connection, the syndicated program that he launched in 1991.
“My favorite place to be is behind that microphone,” Laboe said. “I have one of the best jobs in the world, playing the music, interacting with our listeners, doing their dedications and connecting them with their loved ones.”
One of the first DJs to play R&b and rock ‘n’ roll on Los Angeles/West Coast radio, Laboe...
Art Laboe, the DJ and music promoter who spent 79 continuous years on the radio, was an innovator of the compilation album and coined and trademarked the term “Oldies but Goodies,” has died. He was 97.
Laboe died peacefully Friday at his home in Palm Springs after a brief bout with pneumonia, Joanna Morones, a spokesperson for his production company, Dart Entertainment, announced.
He was on the air as recently as Sunday night with his pre-recorded The Art Laboe Connection, the syndicated program that he launched in 1991.
“My favorite place to be is behind that microphone,” Laboe said. “I have one of the best jobs in the world, playing the music, interacting with our listeners, doing their dedications and connecting them with their loved ones.”
One of the first DJs to play R&b and rock ‘n’ roll on Los Angeles/West Coast radio, Laboe...
- 10/10/2022
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Music is a powerful force that connects members of a generation, and when an icon of that generation passes away, the loss is felt among the masses; it is especially shocking when that larger-than-life celebrity dies suddenly and at a young age. Sadly, we have lost several musical artists much too soon, often due to the pressure, exposure or commitments that come with fame. Tour our photo gallery remembering 30 music legends and the details around their tragic deaths.
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
- 6/16/2022
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
Music is a powerful force that connects members of a generation, and when an icon of that generation passes away, the loss is felt among the masses; it is especially shocking when that larger-than-life celebrity dies suddenly and at a young age. Sadly, we have lost several musical artists much too soon, often due to the pressure, exposure or commitments that come with fame. Tour our photo gallery remembering 30 music legends and the details around their tragic deaths.
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
I was only nine years old when John Lennon died, and over 40 years later, I remember sitting at the kitchen table hearing the report on the radio that crazed fan Mark David Chapman had shot the legendary singer to death. This was one of the most shocking events in rock and roll history; fans were devastated, with a least three committing suicide. Chapman pleaded guilty and remains incarcerated. Just 15 years later, promising...
- 6/16/2022
- by Susan Pennington, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
In documentary My Name is Lopez, the life and work of the Mexican-American singer, who fought hard to retain his name and identity, is celebrated
In the 1950s and 60s, nearly every singer of Latin descent who pined to become a star in the US or UK had to eradicate any trace of ethnicity from their name. Thus, Richard Valenzuela became Ritchie Valens, Domingo Samudio morphed into Sam the Sham, Baldemar Huerta reimagined himself as Freddy Fender, and Florencia Cardona simply became Vikki Carr. In the most extreme example, a five-man Chicano band led by Rudy Martinez wound up hiding under the anonymous moniker Question Mark and The Mysterians before releasing their garage-rock classic 96 Tears.
Given all that, the choices Trini Lopez made about his moniker back then seem especially principled and brave. “Trini said to the world, ‘This is my heritage. I’m Mexican and there’s no reason...
In the 1950s and 60s, nearly every singer of Latin descent who pined to become a star in the US or UK had to eradicate any trace of ethnicity from their name. Thus, Richard Valenzuela became Ritchie Valens, Domingo Samudio morphed into Sam the Sham, Baldemar Huerta reimagined himself as Freddy Fender, and Florencia Cardona simply became Vikki Carr. In the most extreme example, a five-man Chicano band led by Rudy Martinez wound up hiding under the anonymous moniker Question Mark and The Mysterians before releasing their garage-rock classic 96 Tears.
Given all that, the choices Trini Lopez made about his moniker back then seem especially principled and brave. “Trini said to the world, ‘This is my heritage. I’m Mexican and there’s no reason...
- 4/19/2022
- by Jim Farber
- The Guardian - Film News
During the 1950s, Jiles Perry Richardson Jr. Aka The Big Bopper was one of the hottest rising stars in the music industry. He took the world by storm in the summer of 1958 thanks to the success of his song “Chantilly Lace”. With his skills as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter many believed that The Big Bopper had a bright future ahead of him. Sadly, he died in a plane crash when he was just 28 years old. The crash that killed The Big Bopper also resulted in the deaths of Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens. Despite his life being
Five Actors Who Should Play The Big Bopper in a Biopic...
Five Actors Who Should Play The Big Bopper in a Biopic...
- 2/5/2022
- by Camille Moore
- TVovermind.com
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Music biopics have a way of inspiring audiences by sharing stories about our favorite musicians overcoming extreme hardships to accomplish odds-defying dreams. And it doesn’t hurt that music biopics usually have amazing soundtracks as well. In honor of “Respect” — the Aretha Franklin biopic starring Jennifer Hudson as the Queen of Soul — we rounded up a handful of must-see music biopics depicting the lives of legendary stars.
From Judy Garland to James Brown, see below for a roundup of great biopics that are available on Blu-ray. For more recommendations, be sure to read our list of other music documentaries based on true stories available now for streaming.
“Ray”
Buy:
$9.35
Buy it
Jamie Foxx...
Music biopics have a way of inspiring audiences by sharing stories about our favorite musicians overcoming extreme hardships to accomplish odds-defying dreams. And it doesn’t hurt that music biopics usually have amazing soundtracks as well. In honor of “Respect” — the Aretha Franklin biopic starring Jennifer Hudson as the Queen of Soul — we rounded up a handful of must-see music biopics depicting the lives of legendary stars.
From Judy Garland to James Brown, see below for a roundup of great biopics that are available on Blu-ray. For more recommendations, be sure to read our list of other music documentaries based on true stories available now for streaming.
“Ray”
Buy:
$9.35
Buy it
Jamie Foxx...
- 8/19/2021
- by Angel Saunders
- Indiewire
The long-running VH1 series Behind the Music is making a return to the airwaves (or at least the Internet) with a new reboot airing exclusively on Paramount+.
Per the streaming service, the new 2021 Behind the Music will feature episodes with both new and legacy artists, who sit down for intimate conversations and interviews to reveal, “The moments they’ll never forget, the stories they’ve never told [and] the secrets they’ve never revealed.”
The first season of the Behind the Music reboot features Duran Duran, New Kids on the Block,...
Per the streaming service, the new 2021 Behind the Music will feature episodes with both new and legacy artists, who sit down for intimate conversations and interviews to reveal, “The moments they’ll never forget, the stories they’ve never told [and] the secrets they’ve never revealed.”
The first season of the Behind the Music reboot features Duran Duran, New Kids on the Block,...
- 7/29/2021
- by Tim Chan
- Rollingstone.com
This article contains Black Widow spoilers. We have a spoiler-free review here.
The MCU is finally back on the big screen! Marvel’s Black Widow was supposed to be the official kickoff of Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but then the pandemic happened, it got bounced around the release calendar, and Disney managed to release three MCU TV shows before Natasha got to take her curtain call on the big screen.
But that’s thankfully behind us, and Black Widow delivers terrific blockbuster action in the mighty Marvel manner. And you know what that means! Let’s try and spot all the cool MCU references and Marvel Comics Easter eggs in Black Widow.
The Prologue Setting this prologue in 1995 gives us the approximate age of Natasha. If she’s supposed to be about 11 or 12 here, that conveniently makes the character the same age as Scarlett Johannsson, who was born...
The MCU is finally back on the big screen! Marvel’s Black Widow was supposed to be the official kickoff of Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but then the pandemic happened, it got bounced around the release calendar, and Disney managed to release three MCU TV shows before Natasha got to take her curtain call on the big screen.
But that’s thankfully behind us, and Black Widow delivers terrific blockbuster action in the mighty Marvel manner. And you know what that means! Let’s try and spot all the cool MCU references and Marvel Comics Easter eggs in Black Widow.
The Prologue Setting this prologue in 1995 gives us the approximate age of Natasha. If she’s supposed to be about 11 or 12 here, that conveniently makes the character the same age as Scarlett Johannsson, who was born...
- 7/9/2021
- by Mike Cecchini
- Den of Geek
This story appears in Rolling Stone‘s 2021 Future of Music issue, a special project delving into the next era of the multibillion-dollar hitmaking business. Read the other stories here.
When Doris Muñoz met Cuco, one of the first things she told him was that his art was pure and should never be exploited. “I said, ‘I want to advocate for you because I don’t want you to get Ritchie Valens’d,’ ” she recalls, referring to the Chicano rock & roller whose label owner, Bob Keane, kept Valens’ recording rights in perpetuity.
When Doris Muñoz met Cuco, one of the first things she told him was that his art was pure and should never be exploited. “I said, ‘I want to advocate for you because I don’t want you to get Ritchie Valens’d,’ ” she recalls, referring to the Chicano rock & roller whose label owner, Bob Keane, kept Valens’ recording rights in perpetuity.
- 6/15/2021
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
“Dancing with the Stars” is coming back for a 30th season this fall, and there’s a long list of celebrities I’d love to see compete. Below is a list of male stars I think the show should consider to vie for the next Mirror Ball Trophy. Do you agree with these picks? Let us know which you’d most like to see on “DWTS” by voting in the poll at the bottom of this post And of course let us know in the comments who else you would like to see when the show returns in September.
See‘Dancing with the Stars’ season 30: ABC renews the competition series for landmark year Jerry Mathers
This former child star is best known as the title character on the sitcom “Leave It to Beaver,” but he has proven to be pretty musically inclined in the years since. When he was...
See‘Dancing with the Stars’ season 30: ABC renews the competition series for landmark year Jerry Mathers
This former child star is best known as the title character on the sitcom “Leave It to Beaver,” but he has proven to be pretty musically inclined in the years since. When he was...
- 5/25/2021
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Ritchie Valens was just 17 years old when he changed the course of pop music in the late 1950s. As the first Mexican-American hitmaker in the U.S., he laid the groundwork for Chicano rock and beyond, with an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generation after generation — from legends like Carlos Santana and Los Lobos to Gen Z musicians like Cuco and DannyLux. And while Valens died 62 years ago, his music continues to have an everlasting impact today, on what would have been his 80th birthday.
“Ritchie was a rock & roll pioneer,...
“Ritchie was a rock & roll pioneer,...
- 5/13/2021
- by Isabela Raygoza
- Rollingstone.com
In 2018, “Bohemian Rhapsody” blew past everyone’s expectations, becoming one of the top 10 highest grossing films of the year off the love that Queen fans have for the late Freddie Mercury. Now, “Rocketman” will try to have the same charm on Elton John fans, though it will be a tall order for it to knock “BoRhap” off the top of the music biopic charts.
10.) “All Eyez On Me” (2017) $44.9 million: Critics were not impressed by Benny Boom’s biopic on the life and career of Tupac Shakur, but fans of the late rapper showed up en masse on its opening weekend to beat box office expectations and earn nearly $45 million at the box office.
9.) “Jersey Boys” (2014) $47 million: Clint Eastwood is more well known as a director for making grittier films like “The 15:17 to Paris” and “The Mule,” but he also contributed to musical history with a 2014 jukebox drama about Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons,...
10.) “All Eyez On Me” (2017) $44.9 million: Critics were not impressed by Benny Boom’s biopic on the life and career of Tupac Shakur, but fans of the late rapper showed up en masse on its opening weekend to beat box office expectations and earn nearly $45 million at the box office.
9.) “Jersey Boys” (2014) $47 million: Clint Eastwood is more well known as a director for making grittier films like “The 15:17 to Paris” and “The Mule,” but he also contributed to musical history with a 2014 jukebox drama about Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons,...
- 12/1/2020
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Colin Hanks, Diane Guerrero and hip-hop star Nelly have joined the cast of the Buddy Holly biopic “Clear Lake,” directed by Bruce Beresford.
“Clear Lake” tells the story of how Holly and other famous musicians of the late 1950s gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll while changing the trajectory of civil rights in America. The 22-year-old Holly tragically died in a plane crash outside Clear Lake, Iowa, on Feb. 3, 1959, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson.
Hanks (“Fargo”) will co-star as Norman Petty, Holly’s brilliant but often controlling manager and producer. “Orange Is the New Black” star Guerrero has been cast in the role of Holly’s wife, Maria Elena Holly. Nelly, who is currently appearing on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” will play Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Chuck Berry.
Variety reported on Oct. 8 that Ruairi O’Connor had been...
“Clear Lake” tells the story of how Holly and other famous musicians of the late 1950s gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll while changing the trajectory of civil rights in America. The 22-year-old Holly tragically died in a plane crash outside Clear Lake, Iowa, on Feb. 3, 1959, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson.
Hanks (“Fargo”) will co-star as Norman Petty, Holly’s brilliant but often controlling manager and producer. “Orange Is the New Black” star Guerrero has been cast in the role of Holly’s wife, Maria Elena Holly. Nelly, who is currently appearing on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” will play Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Chuck Berry.
Variety reported on Oct. 8 that Ruairi O’Connor had been...
- 11/18/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Colin Hanks, Diane Guerrero and hip-hop star Nelly have joined the cast of Clear Lake, the Buddy Holly-inspired biopic to be directed by Bruce Beresford.
They join Ruairi O’Connor, the Spanish Princess star, earlier tapped to play Holly, the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer who, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson, died in a plane crash outside a snowy Clear Lake, Iowa, on Feb. 3, 1959.
Hanks will co-star as Norman Petty, Holly’s manager and producer, while Nelly will fill the role of Chuck Berry. Orange Is the New Black star Guerrero will play María Elena Holly,...
They join Ruairi O’Connor, the Spanish Princess star, earlier tapped to play Holly, the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer who, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson, died in a plane crash outside a snowy Clear Lake, Iowa, on Feb. 3, 1959.
Hanks will co-star as Norman Petty, Holly’s manager and producer, while Nelly will fill the role of Chuck Berry. Orange Is the New Black star Guerrero will play María Elena Holly,...
- 11/18/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Colin Hanks, Diane Guerrero and hip-hop star Nelly have joined the cast of Clear Lake, the Buddy Holly-inspired biopic to be directed by Bruce Beresford.
They join Ruairi O’Connor, the Spanish Princess star, earlier tapped to play Holly, the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer who, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson, died in a plane crash outside a snowy Clear Lake, Iowa, on Feb. 3, 1959.
Hanks will co-star as Norman Petty, Holly’s manager and producer, while Nelly will fill the role of Chuck Berry. Orange Is the New Black star Guerrero will play María Elena Holly,...
They join Ruairi O’Connor, the Spanish Princess star, earlier tapped to play Holly, the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer who, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson, died in a plane crash outside a snowy Clear Lake, Iowa, on Feb. 3, 1959.
Hanks will co-star as Norman Petty, Holly’s manager and producer, while Nelly will fill the role of Chuck Berry. Orange Is the New Black star Guerrero will play María Elena Holly,...
- 11/18/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Star of stage and screen Jenna Ushkowitz joins Josh and Joe to discuss her favorite musical biopics.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Gremlins (1984)
Back To The Future (1985)
Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (1985)
Sixteen Candles (1984)
Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
National Treasure (2004)
The Sound of Music (1965)
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Star Wars (1977)
La Bamba (1987)
Selena (1997)
The Buddy Holly Story (1978)
De-Lovely (2004)
Night and Day (1946)
All That Jazz (1979)
A Chorus Line (1985)
Star 80 (1983)
Psycho (1960)
Evita (1996)
Love and Mercy (2014)
Grace of My Heart (1996)
Get On Up (2014)
Ray (2004)
What’s Love Got To Do With It? (1993)
El Norte (1983)
The Wedding Planner (2001)
Out of Sight (1998)
Hustlers (2019)
Sweet Charity (1969)
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Chicago (2002)
Moulin Rouge (1952)
Roxie Hart (1942)
The Greatest Showman (2017)
Other Notable Items
Glee TV series (2009-2015)
The Tony Awards
The Emmy Awards
The Academy Awards
Pee Wee’s Playhouse (1986-1990)
Eric Stoltz
Harry Potter film series
Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Dark Knight trilogy
Christopher Nolan
Julie Andrews...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Gremlins (1984)
Back To The Future (1985)
Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (1985)
Sixteen Candles (1984)
Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
National Treasure (2004)
The Sound of Music (1965)
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Star Wars (1977)
La Bamba (1987)
Selena (1997)
The Buddy Holly Story (1978)
De-Lovely (2004)
Night and Day (1946)
All That Jazz (1979)
A Chorus Line (1985)
Star 80 (1983)
Psycho (1960)
Evita (1996)
Love and Mercy (2014)
Grace of My Heart (1996)
Get On Up (2014)
Ray (2004)
What’s Love Got To Do With It? (1993)
El Norte (1983)
The Wedding Planner (2001)
Out of Sight (1998)
Hustlers (2019)
Sweet Charity (1969)
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Chicago (2002)
Moulin Rouge (1952)
Roxie Hart (1942)
The Greatest Showman (2017)
Other Notable Items
Glee TV series (2009-2015)
The Tony Awards
The Emmy Awards
The Academy Awards
Pee Wee’s Playhouse (1986-1990)
Eric Stoltz
Harry Potter film series
Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Dark Knight trilogy
Christopher Nolan
Julie Andrews...
- 11/3/2020
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
“Driving Miss Daisy” director Bruce Beresford is directing a biopic on the life of Buddy Holly called “Clear Lake,” and the independent film has cast Ruairi O’Connor, best known for his role in the Starz miniseries “The Spanish Princess,” to star as the rock ‘n’ roll icon.
“Clear Lake” tells the story of how Buddy Holly and other famous musicians of the late 1950s gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll while changing the trajectory of civil rights in America, all leading up to “The Day The Music Died,” when Holly died in a plane crash outside Clear Lake, Iowa on February 3, 1959, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson.
Rick French (“Not Without Hope”) is producing for Prix Productions along with Stuart Benjamin of Stuart Benjamin Productions.
The filmmakers on “Clear Lake” spent six months searching for its Buddy Holly, someone who both resembled...
“Clear Lake” tells the story of how Buddy Holly and other famous musicians of the late 1950s gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll while changing the trajectory of civil rights in America, all leading up to “The Day The Music Died,” when Holly died in a plane crash outside Clear Lake, Iowa on February 3, 1959, along with Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and pilot Roger Peterson.
Rick French (“Not Without Hope”) is producing for Prix Productions along with Stuart Benjamin of Stuart Benjamin Productions.
The filmmakers on “Clear Lake” spent six months searching for its Buddy Holly, someone who both resembled...
- 10/8/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Irish actor Ruairi O’Connor will play rock ‘n’ roll icon Buddy Holly in the biopic “Clear Lake” with a tentative production start date set for the spring.
O’Connor, who stars as a young King Henry VIII in the Starz miniseries “The Spanish Princess,” was selected following a six-month search by the producers and casting directors at Presser/Well Casting to find the right actor who both resembled Holly and could handle vocals and instrumentation on classic songs such as “Everyday,” “That’ll Be the Day” and “Not Fade Away.”
The BMG-backed “Clear Lake” will helmed by Bruce Beresford, who received Oscar nominations for the “Breaker Morant” script and for directing “Tender Mercies.” He also directed “Driving Miss Daisy,” which won the Academy Award for best picture. Producers are Rick French (“Not Without Hope”) of Prix Productions and Stuart Benjamin of Stuart Benjamin Productions.
“Clear Lake” tells the story of...
O’Connor, who stars as a young King Henry VIII in the Starz miniseries “The Spanish Princess,” was selected following a six-month search by the producers and casting directors at Presser/Well Casting to find the right actor who both resembled Holly and could handle vocals and instrumentation on classic songs such as “Everyday,” “That’ll Be the Day” and “Not Fade Away.”
The BMG-backed “Clear Lake” will helmed by Bruce Beresford, who received Oscar nominations for the “Breaker Morant” script and for directing “Tender Mercies.” He also directed “Driving Miss Daisy,” which won the Academy Award for best picture. Producers are Rick French (“Not Without Hope”) of Prix Productions and Stuart Benjamin of Stuart Benjamin Productions.
“Clear Lake” tells the story of...
- 10/8/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The recently-delayed duo of Mission: Impossible movie sequels may still be on schedule, but it now appears that the films will do so without the version of an unnamed villain that had been cast, due to the apparent exit of Nicholas Hoult. However, the vacancy was short-lived, and Hoult’s replacement as the mystery antagonist is now confirmed to be Esai Morales.
The exit of Hoult, as reported by Deadline, was the result of the aforementioned release date delays of sequels Mission: Impossible 7 and 8, a coronavirus measure that created a conflict with another commitment for the actor, although, with the two sequels being the only unproduced projects on his (known) docket, it is unclear what that commitment may have been. Regardless, the timing proved fortuitous for the veteran actor, Morales, who was recently seen in the final appearance of his recurring role on ABC’s just-ended Shondaland series,...
The exit of Hoult, as reported by Deadline, was the result of the aforementioned release date delays of sequels Mission: Impossible 7 and 8, a coronavirus measure that created a conflict with another commitment for the actor, although, with the two sequels being the only unproduced projects on his (known) docket, it is unclear what that commitment may have been. Regardless, the timing proved fortuitous for the veteran actor, Morales, who was recently seen in the final appearance of his recurring role on ABC’s just-ended Shondaland series,...
- 5/21/2020
- by Joseph Baxter
- Den of Geek
It was described as the “Day the Music Died.” Over 50 years ago, on February 3, 1959, three of the country’s top rock & roll stars — Ritchie Valens, J. P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, and Buddy Holly — died in a plane crash. The tragedy reshaped the music world and, although Valens was just 17 years old, he’s had a lasting impact on pop music. Along with his hit song “La Bamba,” Valens also had the Billboard Hot 100 hit “Donna,” which peaked at Number Two after his death.
Most people came to know Valens...
Most people came to know Valens...
- 12/12/2019
- by Jerry Portwood
- Rollingstone.com
Tony Sokol Sep 6, 2019
The film Yesterday imagines a world where the Beatles never existed. But what might have filled the gap?
In Danny Boyle's film Yesterday, a struggling young musician played by Jack Malik suffers an accident at exactly the same moment a major power surge burns all evidence of former skiffle group the Beatles out of the collective memory of the masses. Only the musician remembers the songs, the stories, and the band's place in the history of popular music. The film, however, is still set in a world where the culture that was shaped by the influence of four relatively working class musicians from a port city remained curiously intact. The Rolling Stones are still around; so is Childish Gambino, thank the gods of music. But Oasis doesn't come up on Google searches when partnered with “Wonderwall.” We can assume there was no Squeeze, Electric Light Orchestra,...
The film Yesterday imagines a world where the Beatles never existed. But what might have filled the gap?
In Danny Boyle's film Yesterday, a struggling young musician played by Jack Malik suffers an accident at exactly the same moment a major power surge burns all evidence of former skiffle group the Beatles out of the collective memory of the masses. Only the musician remembers the songs, the stories, and the band's place in the history of popular music. The film, however, is still set in a world where the culture that was shaped by the influence of four relatively working class musicians from a port city remained curiously intact. The Rolling Stones are still around; so is Childish Gambino, thank the gods of music. But Oasis doesn't come up on Google searches when partnered with “Wonderwall.” We can assume there was no Squeeze, Electric Light Orchestra,...
- 9/5/2019
- Den of Geek
Film-triptychs have been a source of masterpieces for Asian cinema for many decades, with works like Wong Kar-Wai’s “Chungking Express“, Hou Hsiao-Hsien’s “Three Times” and more recently Jia Zhangke’s “Mountains May Depart”. Taiwanese Wi Ding Ho makes his own effort at the triptych by implementing an additional cinematic trick: reverse chronological order.
The story begins with a death, while a Taiwanese rendition of Ritchie Valens’s “Oh Donna” is playing in the background, before it turns to its first segment. The setting is at Taipei in 2056, but the events unfolding could be of any decade: The protagonist, 60-years-old Zhang Dong Ling barges into a ballroom dance session only to attack the man dancing with his wife, which is soon revealed to have been estranged from him for many years. A violent scene in the hospital and a more tender one with his daughter conclude this segment, while...
The story begins with a death, while a Taiwanese rendition of Ritchie Valens’s “Oh Donna” is playing in the background, before it turns to its first segment. The setting is at Taipei in 2056, but the events unfolding could be of any decade: The protagonist, 60-years-old Zhang Dong Ling barges into a ballroom dance session only to attack the man dancing with his wife, which is soon revealed to have been estranged from him for many years. A violent scene in the hospital and a more tender one with his daughter conclude this segment, while...
- 8/11/2019
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
On July 9th, 1963, Waylon Jennings was living and playing in Phoenix, Arizona, when he received a recording contract in the mail. His friend, songwriter and comedian Don Bowman, had taken Jennings’ demo recordings to Jerry Moss, who with trumpet-playing bandleader Herb Alpert, had started a small label called A&m Records in Los Angeles.
Four years earlier, Jennings was playing bass in rock & roll legend Buddy Holly’s band when he had given up his seat on a doomed flight to J.P. Richardson, a.k.a. the Big Bopper. Holly,...
Four years earlier, Jennings was playing bass in rock & roll legend Buddy Holly’s band when he had given up his seat on a doomed flight to J.P. Richardson, a.k.a. the Big Bopper. Holly,...
- 7/9/2019
- by Stephen L. Betts
- Rollingstone.com
In the Netflix biopic “The Dirt,” Pete Davidson of “Saturday Night Live” fame portrays A&R exec Tom Zutaut, the man who signed Motley Crue to Elektra and Guns N’ Roses to Geffen, while veteran character actor David Costabile is manager Doc McGhee. They follow in a long and illustrious line of label executives portrayed on screen, ranging from critical and box-office hits like “Ray” and “La Bamba” to lesser-seen music pics like “Cbgb” and “The Runaways.” Here’s our list of 10 of the most memorable:
1. Steven Coogan as Tony Wilson (“24 Hour Party People”). Coogan’s brilliant portrayal of the Manchester icon and Factory Records founder in Michael Winterbottom’s 2002 film also includes great turns from Paddy Considine as Rob Gretton, the manager of Joy Division and New Order who passed away in 1999, and “Lord of the Rings” star Andy Serkis as Martin Hannett, the noted producer and Factory partner...
1. Steven Coogan as Tony Wilson (“24 Hour Party People”). Coogan’s brilliant portrayal of the Manchester icon and Factory Records founder in Michael Winterbottom’s 2002 film also includes great turns from Paddy Considine as Rob Gretton, the manager of Joy Division and New Order who passed away in 1999, and “Lord of the Rings” star Andy Serkis as Martin Hannett, the noted producer and Factory partner...
- 3/25/2019
- by Roy Trakin
- Variety Film + TV
Jay-z’s The Blueprint, Cyndi Lauper’s She’s So Unusual, Curtis Mayfield’s Superfly soundtrack, Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” and Nina Simone’s “Mississippi Goddam” are among the 25 recordings that will be added to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry this year.
The eclectic list also includes Earth, Wind and Fire’s hit single “September,” the original Broadway cast recording of the musical Hair, Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba,” Sylvester’s “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” and a box set featuring the music of Schoolhouse Rock! The...
The eclectic list also includes Earth, Wind and Fire’s hit single “September,” the original Broadway cast recording of the musical Hair, Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba,” Sylvester’s “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” and a box set featuring the music of Schoolhouse Rock! The...
- 3/20/2019
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
The Titans just made a killer cast addition: Esai Morales will portray Deathstroke, the fan-favorite assassin and archenemy of Teen Titans leader Dick Grayson.
The Titans, the first original programming franchise for the DC Universe subscription steaming site, launched in September and finished its first season in December. The weekly show follows the superhero squad that’s led by Batman’s former sidekick, Robin, aka Dick Grayson (Brenton Thwaites), and includes the hot-tempered alien princess Starfire (Anna Diop), the mysterious empath Raven (Teagan Croft), and the green-skinned shape-shifter Beast Boy (Ryan Potter).
That Titans line-up of characters was introduced with much fanfare in the pages of DC Comics back in 1980. The team, created by Marv Wolfman and George Perez, didn’t have to wait long to find their signature antagonist: Deathstroke the Terminator was introduced in issue No. 2 of The New Teen Titans in December 1980.
The character bio from the...
The Titans, the first original programming franchise for the DC Universe subscription steaming site, launched in September and finished its first season in December. The weekly show follows the superhero squad that’s led by Batman’s former sidekick, Robin, aka Dick Grayson (Brenton Thwaites), and includes the hot-tempered alien princess Starfire (Anna Diop), the mysterious empath Raven (Teagan Croft), and the green-skinned shape-shifter Beast Boy (Ryan Potter).
That Titans line-up of characters was introduced with much fanfare in the pages of DC Comics back in 1980. The team, created by Marv Wolfman and George Perez, didn’t have to wait long to find their signature antagonist: Deathstroke the Terminator was introduced in issue No. 2 of The New Teen Titans in December 1980.
The character bio from the...
- 3/13/2019
- by Geoff Boucher
- Deadline Film + TV
“That’s what’s really cool about a guy like Nick, that he’d agree to something like this,” Los Straitjackets guitarist Eddie Angel told Rolling Stone last year of the masked instrumental rockers’ ongoing collaboration with veteran singer-songwriter Nick Lowe. “We had nothing to lose. But he did: his reputation!”
Apparently Lowe is comfortable with the risk. In May, he’ll follow up a 2018 Ep featuring Los Straitjackets with another four-song release on which he’s backed by the Nashville outfit, known for their Mexican-wrestling–style headwear. Love Starvation...
Apparently Lowe is comfortable with the risk. In May, he’ll follow up a 2018 Ep featuring Los Straitjackets with another four-song release on which he’s backed by the Nashville outfit, known for their Mexican-wrestling–style headwear. Love Starvation...
- 2/25/2019
- by Hank Shteamer
- Rollingstone.com
Bob Dylan typically doesn’t say much to the crowd during his shows. But in July 2013, when performing in his home state of Minnesota, he offered a rare spoken-word introduction to a cover of “Suzie Baby,” a 1959 hit by the Minnesota pop singer Bobby Vee, who was in attendance that night.
“I used to live here, and then I left,” Dylan said. “I’ve played with everybody, from Mick Jagger to Madonna … but the most meaningful person I’ve ever been onstage with is a man who’s here tonight,...
“I used to live here, and then I left,” Dylan said. “I’ve played with everybody, from Mick Jagger to Madonna … but the most meaningful person I’ve ever been onstage with is a man who’s here tonight,...
- 1/30/2019
- by Jonathan Bernstein
- Rollingstone.com
Veteran creative executives Rick French and Patrick Shanahan are partnering with Buddy Holly’s widow on “Clear Lake,” depicting Holly’s 1958 music tour with Clarence Collins, Variety has learned exclusively.
French is the chairman and CEO of North Carolina-based marketing firm French/West/Vaughan and Shanahan is the founder and president of Denim Buffalo Films. They have teamed to form Prix Productions, with French serving as managing partner focused on IP acquisition, financing, and production, and Shanahan focused on writing and directing.
“Clear Lake” is being produced in association with Holly’s widow, Maria Elena Holly; the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation; and BMG, which manages the Holly Estate intellectual property and U.S. music publishing rights. The film will follow Holly and Collins, founder of Little Anthony & the Imperials, as they tour together in the racially charged days of 1958 as part of the “Biggest Show of Stars Tour.” Shanahan and...
French is the chairman and CEO of North Carolina-based marketing firm French/West/Vaughan and Shanahan is the founder and president of Denim Buffalo Films. They have teamed to form Prix Productions, with French serving as managing partner focused on IP acquisition, financing, and production, and Shanahan focused on writing and directing.
“Clear Lake” is being produced in association with Holly’s widow, Maria Elena Holly; the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation; and BMG, which manages the Holly Estate intellectual property and U.S. music publishing rights. The film will follow Holly and Collins, founder of Little Anthony & the Imperials, as they tour together in the racially charged days of 1958 as part of the “Biggest Show of Stars Tour.” Shanahan and...
- 7/10/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
La Bamba is the story of Ritchie Valens and how he came to be a star. His life was never entirely perfect but he did manage to live the good life once he got famous. He had a very severe fear of flying however since he’d had a dream once that he was killed in a mid-air collision. While it wasn’t that kind of accident that led to his end it was an accident that was dubbed The Night the Music Died. He, Buddy Holly, and The Big Bopper boarded a jet that had been chartered by Holly in order
10 Things You Didn’t Know about “La Bamba”...
10 Things You Didn’t Know about “La Bamba”...
- 3/13/2018
- by Wake
- TVovermind.com
Will Smith proved his fans wrong on Monday when he shared a video of himself singing “La Bamba” in Spanish.
The Suicide Squad star, 49, shared a video of himself on Instagram inside of a car singing the classic 1958 song by Ritchie Valens.
“Some of y’all were roasting me in the comments for not knowing the words to La Bamba the other day…” Smith wrote in the caption.
The actor showed off his bilingual skills in the video, starting off by saying the same thing as his caption but in Spanish, “Mucha gente en los comentarios se burlaban de mi...
The Suicide Squad star, 49, shared a video of himself on Instagram inside of a car singing the classic 1958 song by Ritchie Valens.
“Some of y’all were roasting me in the comments for not knowing the words to La Bamba the other day…” Smith wrote in the caption.
The actor showed off his bilingual skills in the video, starting off by saying the same thing as his caption but in Spanish, “Mucha gente en los comentarios se burlaban de mi...
- 2/13/2018
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
Die Hard, Titanic, The Goonies and Field of Dreams are among the 25 films that have been added to the National Film Registry, the Library of Congress announced Wednesday.
Classic films like 1960's Spartacus, 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, 1947's Gentleman's Agreement and 1951's Ace in the Hole were also named to the registry, which "recognizes its importance to American cinema and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage."
"Our love affair with motion pictures is a testament to their enduring power to enlighten, inspire and inform us as individuals...
Classic films like 1960's Spartacus, 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, 1947's Gentleman's Agreement and 1951's Ace in the Hole were also named to the registry, which "recognizes its importance to American cinema and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage."
"Our love affair with motion pictures is a testament to their enduring power to enlighten, inspire and inform us as individuals...
- 12/13/2017
- Rollingstone.com
Die Hard, Titanic, The Goonies and Field of Dreams are among the 25 films that have been added to the National Film Registry, the Library of Congress announced Wednesday.
Classic films like 1960's Spartacus, 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, 1947's Gentleman's Agreement and 1951's Ace in the Hole were also named to the registry, which "recognizes its importance to American cinema and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage."
"Our love affair with motion pictures is a testament to their enduring power to enlighten, inspire and inform us as individuals...
Classic films like 1960's Spartacus, 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, 1947's Gentleman's Agreement and 1951's Ace in the Hole were also named to the registry, which "recognizes its importance to American cinema and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage."
"Our love affair with motion pictures is a testament to their enduring power to enlighten, inspire and inform us as individuals...
- 12/13/2017
- Rollingstone.com
As is annual tradition, Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden has announced this year’s 25 film set to join the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress. Selected for their “cultural, historic and/or aesthetic importance,” the films picked range from such beloved actioners as “Die Hard,” childhood classic “The Goonies,” the seminal “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” and the mind-bending “Memento,” with plenty of other genres and styles represented among the list.
The additions span 1905 to 2000, and includes Hollywood blockbusters, documentaries, silent movies, animation, shorts, independent, and even home movies. The 2017 selections bring the number of films in the registry to 725.
“The selection of a film to the National Film Registry recognizes its importance to American cinema and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage,” Hayden said in an official statement. “Our love affair with motion pictures is a testament to their enduring power to enlighten, inspire and...
The additions span 1905 to 2000, and includes Hollywood blockbusters, documentaries, silent movies, animation, shorts, independent, and even home movies. The 2017 selections bring the number of films in the registry to 725.
“The selection of a film to the National Film Registry recognizes its importance to American cinema and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage,” Hayden said in an official statement. “Our love affair with motion pictures is a testament to their enduring power to enlighten, inspire and...
- 12/13/2017
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Since 1989, the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress has been accomplishing the important task of preserving films that “represent important cultural, artistic and historic achievements in filmmaking.” From films way back in 1897 all the way up to 2004, they’ve now reached 725 films that celebrate our heritage and encapsulate our film history.
Today they’ve unveiled their 2017 list, which includes such Hollywood classics as Die Hard, Titanic, and Superman along with groundbreaking independent features like Yvonne Rainer’s Lives of Performers, Charles Burnett’s To Sleep with Anger, and Barbara Loden’s Wanda. Also making this list are a pair of Kirk Douglas-led features, Ace in the Hole and Spartacus, as well as Christopher Nolan’s Memento and more. Check out the full list below and you can watch some films on the registry for free here.
Ace in the Hole (aka Big Carnival) (1951)
Based on the infamous...
Today they’ve unveiled their 2017 list, which includes such Hollywood classics as Die Hard, Titanic, and Superman along with groundbreaking independent features like Yvonne Rainer’s Lives of Performers, Charles Burnett’s To Sleep with Anger, and Barbara Loden’s Wanda. Also making this list are a pair of Kirk Douglas-led features, Ace in the Hole and Spartacus, as well as Christopher Nolan’s Memento and more. Check out the full list below and you can watch some films on the registry for free here.
Ace in the Hole (aka Big Carnival) (1951)
Based on the infamous...
- 12/13/2017
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
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