This Week in Music (Video)
The legendary Tony Bennett has been in the news over the past few weeks.
He made a fabulous appearance at Andrea Boccelli’s concert in Central Park last week doing a duet of “New York, New York.” He celebrated his 85th birthday surrounded by fellow celebrities. He also did an interview with Howard Stern promoting his new album Duets II. This caused a bit of controversy when the subject of terrorism came up and he voiced his opinion. The following day, Bennett apologized for the statement he made emphasizing his love for his country and desire for peace.
Despite the controversy, hopefully fans will not be deterred from getting the new album. It is full of treasures like a duet of “Body and Soul” with the late Amy Winehouse, “The Lady is a Tramp” with Lady Gaga, and “Stranger in Paradise” with Andrea Bocelli. Another beautiful rendition is this duet of “Who Can I Turn To” with Queen Latifah. Peformed live, On America’s Got Talent it is a reminder that he has certainly still “got it”.
This weekend Vegas will be a far cry from its Rat Pack/crooner days with theIHeart Radio Music Festival on September 23 and 24. This long awaited festival at the MGM Grand features big name artists like Lady Gaga, Jay-Z, David Guetta, Rascal Flatts, and Coldplay. If you are not in Vegas this weekend, don’t worry, you can also watch the “biggest live music event in radio history” from Facebook or on the website.
Also, in live music, South Carolina has itsHotel Carolinasinger-songwriter music festival from September 22-24. The names like Tony Lucca and Rachel Platten may not be as big as those in Vegas, but their music and voices have soul. The festival gives fans a chance to get up close and personal. There are concerts, a BBQ, and even “Camp Carolina” a series of events where festival attendees can compete alongside artists in games.
New releases:
Tori Amos released newalbum Night of Hunters with dreamy and melodic songs.
Artist Gavin DeGraw released new albumSweeter. Check it out for a pleasing a pop rock sound and simple, moving songs like “Sweeter” and “Not Over You.”
Pearl Jam is celebrating their twentieth anniversary with a film,Pearl Jam Twenty andalbum of the same name. It includes 29 rare and unreleased tracks in a wonderful collection.
Demi Lovato released albumUnbroken featuring “Together” with Jason Derulo and “All Night Long” with Missy Elliot and Timbaland.
Heavy metal group Opeth, does not sound heavy at all in new albumHeritage.
SimilarlySuperheavy despite the name, does not sound heavy. It is instead a cool combination of rock and reggae sounds for your listening pleasure.