News Roundup: 7/2/2009
July 2nd, 2009 | 4:10 pm est |
Contrary to earlier reports, there will not be a public memorial for Michael Jackson at Neverland Ranch this weekend. According to a family representative, plans for such a memorial have been postponed, but an event for fans to commemorate Jackson are in the works. Other Jackson news: Former Sony Music CEO Tommy Mottola claims that there are hundreds of unreleased tracks by the King of Pop, ranging from unused tracks from the sessions for some of his best-loved albums to collaborations with will.i.am and Akon for Jackson’s long-planned comeback album. [Idolator.com, VH1.com]
Stereogum remembers the late Sky Saxon with a song the Seeds frontman and Billy Corgan recorded together, “Choose to Choose Love.” Look for Allmusic’s Saxon tribute later today. [Stereogum.com]
A new supergroup is in the works: John Paul Jones, Dave Grohl and Josh Homme are busy recording their first album together. No word yet on a band name or release date for the music. [Spinner.com]
Grandmaster Flash talks to Rolling Stone about his heavy involvement in Activision’s long-awaited Guitar Hero spin-off, DJ Hero. Along with providing two mixes for the game, he contributes tutorial voiceovers, appears as a character, and acted as a consultant on the game’s jargon. [RollingStone.com]
David Berman may no longer be recording as the Silver Jews, but he has a new release coming out on Drag City: A book of cartoons he describes as “between and below Gary Larson and Raymond Pettibon.” [Pitchfork.com]
The Black Lips, Deerhunter and other friends of Bobby Ubangi are working to raise money to give the Atlanta musician, who lost his battle with cancer on Wednesday, an eco-friendly funeral when he passes. Check out Chunklet for more information on Ubangi and how to donate. [NME.com, Chunklet.com]
The Guardian’s School of Rock series explores some of pop music’s most quixotic talents, including Brian Wilson, Kanye West, and Mike Scott of the Waterboys. [Guardian.co.uk]






John Paul jones and dave grohl????? That sounds tight. I can already tell they’re better than that chickenfoot crap.