Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Mariah Carey, Miguel Blast Onto Radio Charts With '#Beautiful'
Mariah Carey soars onto a host of Billboard's Nielsen BDS-based radio airplay tallies with "#Beautiful," featuring Miguel. The song starts on Mainstream Top 40 and Rhythmic at No. 22; Adult Contemporary (No. 23); Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop (No. 29); and Adult Top 40 (No. 35).
Coordinated airplay on Clear Channel Media and Entertainment stations aided the song's first week. Beginning at 7 a.m. EST on Monday, May 6 (the first day of the airplay chart tracking week), "#Beautiful" played at the top of each hour until 11 p.m. on approximately 230 Clear Channel outlets. Still, stations in other chains played "#Beautiful" over its first seven days of availability, including CBS Radio-owned Mainstream Top 40 panelists WBBM Chicago (61 spins), WNOW New York and KMVQ San Francisco (32 each).
With the bow of "#Beautiful," the lead single from Carey's forthcoming 13th studio album, due this summer, Carey ups her count to 30 Mainstream Top 40 entries dating to the chart's Oct. 3, 1992, launch, tying Britney Spears for the second-most appearances. Only Rihanna (35) has tallied more visits. The song's debut rank is Carey's third-best, trailing only the starts of "Dreamlover" (the list's all-time top starter: No. 12 in 1993) and "Endless Love," with Luther Vandross (No. 20, 1994).
Miguel makes his second appearance on Mainstream Top 40. He previously charted with "Adorn," which reached No. 35 in December.
On Rhythmic, Carey extends her record for the most appearances among women to 37, with Rihanna ranking second (35).
Check Billboard.biz on Wednesday (15), when highlights of the Billboard Hot 100 chart will be revealed, as, following its initial sales and streaming data, in addition to its first full week of radio airplay, "#Beautiful" is expected to make a significant debut. All charts will be refreshed, as they are each week, on Thursday (16).
Monday, May 13, 2013
Sunday, May 12, 2013
"#Beautiful" music video behind-the-scenes
"It's very exciting for me because there are several elements. We're using or featuring my father's car that he had his whole life and he never was able to finish it up, and I did that in honor of him. This is the first time anyone's ever going to really see it. For me it's a big deal."
(MDJ)
VIBE: Five Things To Expect on Mariah's New Album
It's been four years since Mariah Carey released her last album, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel. Since then,M.C. has been experiencing a life transition. She gave birth to twins in 2011, became a spokesperson for Jenny Craig and also used her musical expertise as a judge on Season 12 of American Idol. All the while, the 43-year-old singer-songwriter hasn't lost a step. With the release of her new single "#Beautiful," featuring Miguel, we can't help but get excited about MiMi's return.
Check out 5 things you can expect on the new LP.
1. An Ode to Dem Babies
This will be MC's first album since giving birth to her twins Monroe and Moroccan. We're sure the proud mama has already written a beautiful ballad in honor of "dem babies." Little Ms. Monroe is already flexing her premature vocal chops and will make her debut feature on mommy's upcoming project.
"My little girl is going to be appearing on the album, I will say that," Mariah told Ryan Seacrest on May 6. "She can't really put a complete sentence together--she was 1 years old when she started--but she did a good job!"
2. Nicki Minaj Shade
Nobody throws shade better than MiMi. Subtle yet effective, this diva knows how to get the last laugh. Her Eminem diss track proved that the R&B songbird wasn't afraid to clap back at the hardcore rapper for being "obsessed" with her. Decked out in her best tomboy attire and sporting a goatee, Mariah comically turned the mocking tables on Slim Shady in the music video. Nicki, beware.
3. A Toast To Success
Admit it, you didn't think Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon would last five years in marriage. When the couple first announced their relationship back in 2008 a lot of folks were scratching their heads, saying, "huh?" But Mr. and Mrs. Cannon proved that opposites do attract. It would only be right for Mariah to pen a love song in dedication of their matrimony and longevity.
4. Amazing Production
When it comes to working with producers, Mariah Carey is known to only select the best of the bunch. Hit-Boy, The-Dream, Jermaine Dupri, Bryan Michael Cox and Rodney Jerkins are only a few of the mega producers she's confirmed to be working with so far. Already sounds like a stellar line-up.
5. Epic Collaborations
Mariah already got the current hottest male R&B singer on her first single, so we can only imagine who she's going to collaborate with next. Carey told that she's completed songs with DJ Cassidy and her former "Honey" collaborator Q-Tip. She also expressed interest in collaborating with the top 3 female American Idol finalists. Could be a hit girl power anthem.
(Vibe)
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Friday, May 10, 2013
LambzRus #Beautiful Cover Art using the screen-caps from the new video!!!
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| Please Credit LambzRus If You Use :) |
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| Please Credit LambzRus If You Use :) |
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| Please Credit LambzRus If You Use :) |
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| Please Credit LambzRus If You Use :) |
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| Please Credit LambzRus If You Use :) |
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| Please Credit LambzRus If You Use :) |
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Flashhback Scoop: Mariah Carey Gets a New Manager, But All Good with Randy Jackson
I told you last weekend that Mariah Carey was no longer managed by her longtime pal Randy Jackson. Now all of a sudden that story got traction on MTV.com (which credited us–thank you). Just to explain: Randy came in to manage Mariah as she went through the process of negotiating with “American Idol.” He’s also been helping to get her new album together. There is no problem or friction between them.She didn’t dump him or oust him. Good grief.
As Mariah prepares to release the album, go on tour, etc it would be impossible for Jackson really “to manage” all of that. Randy and Mariah go back to at least her “Charmbracelet” album, which he captained. That album was a comeback after the “Glitter” debacle.” The two are very close friends. It’s unlikely Carey will return to “Idol” next season, but don’t count out Randy. (The Wrap insists he’s leaving.) Randy represents continuity at “Idol.” He could still be a mentor if not a judge.
PS Mariah has a full time manager, anyway. Louise McNally is always there as second managers are brought in.
(Showbiz411)
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Mariah Carey's '#Beautiful' Off to Strong Radio, Sales Start
The duet with Miguel garners first-day airplay at Clear Channel radio, while debut-week sales are projected at more than 100,000
Mariah Carey's new single, "#Beautiful," is logging an impressive beginning, thanks to hefty first-day airplay
across an array of Clear Channel Media and Entertainment-owned radio stations and a solid initial sales forecast.
The song, featuring Miguel, who co-wrote and -produced it with Carey, and lead single from her 13th studio album, expected this summer on Island Def Jam, has drawn 29 million all-format audience impressions (as of this posting), according to Nielsen BDS, since its release yesterday (May 6).
Beginning at 7 a.m. EST yesterday, "#Beautiful" played at the top of each hour until 11 p.m. on approximately 230 pop, rhythmic, adult contemporary, adult pop and R&B/hip-hop Clear Channel stations. "Mariah Carey is a music icon. Using the power of our radio stations to launch her new single is a unique opportunity to display our collective strength to the record community around the country," Tom Poleman, Clear Channel president of national programming platforms, said in a statement.
While stations in other chains have played "#Beautiful" since its arrival, including CBS Radio-owned Pop Songs panelists WDZH Detroit (17 plays yesterday), WBBM Chicago (10) and WODS Boston (seven), the majority of the song's airplay has stemmed from Clear Channel's promotion.
How are the song's Billboard Hot 100 fortunes shaping up? "#Beautiful" looks likely to debut in the Radio Songs chart's top 50 when the chart is compiled tomorrow. While it also was released for digital purchase yesterday (at 8 a.m. EST) and to streaming services today, only its airplay yesterday and today will count toward this week's Hot 100 (as the airplay tracking week ends on Tuesday each week; the sales tracking week ends each Sunday). The two-day audience sum might be enough for it to debut on the lower half of the Hot 100 when highlights of the chart are revealed on Billboard.com tomorrow.
Based on early indications from industry sources, Billboard projects that "#Beautiful" could sell more than 100,000 downloads by the end of the tracking week on Sunday (12). That number could, however, change dramatically in the coming days. But, such a sum would likely spur a lofty jump (or debut) on next week's Hot 100. Next week's chart would, however, cover airplay from Wednesday May 8 through Tuesday (14), so the song's first day of Clear Channel promotional airplay would not contribute to next week's Hot 100.
Also aiding the song's first-week profile, its video will premiere tomorrow night on Fox's "American Idol," on which Carey serves as a judge. The clip will be available on Vevo and YouTube immediately following the premiere.
Once the song debuts, Carey will expand her illustrious Hot 100 history. She boasts 18 No. 1s, the most among solo artists and second overall only to the Beatles' 20. She's tallied 44 Hot 100 entries, 27 of which have reached the top 10. She last reached the top 10 with the No. 7 hit "Obsessed" in 2009 and last led the list with "Touch My Body" in 2008.
(Billboard)
Mariah Carey's new single, "#Beautiful," is logging an impressive beginning, thanks to hefty first-day airplay across an array of Clear Channel Media and Entertainment-owned radio stations and a solid initial sales forecast.
The song, featuring Miguel, who co-wrote and -produced it with Carey, and lead single from her 13th studio album, expected this summer on Island Def Jam, has drawn 29 million all-format audience impressions (as of this posting), according to Nielsen BDS, since its release yesterday (May 6).
Beginning at 7 a.m. EST yesterday, "#Beautiful" played at the top of each hour until 11 p.m. on approximately 230 pop, rhythmic, adult contemporary, adult pop and R&B/hip-hop Clear Channel stations. "Mariah Carey is a music icon. Using the power of our radio stations to launch her new single is a unique opportunity to display our collective strength to the record community around the country," Tom Poleman, Clear Channel president of national programming platforms, said in a statement.
While stations in other chains have played "#Beautiful" since its arrival, including CBS Radio-owned Pop Songs panelists WDZH Detroit (17 plays yesterday), WBBM Chicago (10) and WODS Boston (seven), the majority of the song's airplay has stemmed from Clear Channel's promotion.
How are the song's Billboard Hot 100 fortunes shaping up? "#Beautiful" looks likely to debut in the Radio Songs chart's top 50 when the chart is compiled tomorrow. While it also was released for digital purchase yesterday (at 8 a.m. EST) and to streaming services today, only its airplay yesterday and today will count toward this week's Hot 100 (as the airplay tracking week ends on Tuesday each week; the sales tracking week ends each Sunday). The two-day audience sum might be enough for it to debut on the lower half of the Hot 100 when highlights of the chart are revealed on Billboard.com tomorrow.
Based on early indications from industry sources, Billboard projects that "#Beautiful" could sell more than 100,000 downloads by the end of the tracking week on Sunday (12). That number could, however, change dramatically in the coming days. But, such a sum would likely spur a lofty jump (or debut) on next week's Hot 100. Next week's chart would, however, cover airplay from Wednesday May 8 through Tuesday (14), so the song's first day of Clear Channel promotional airplay would not contribute to next week's Hot 100.
Also aiding the song's first-week profile, its video will premiere tomorrow night on Fox's "American Idol," on which Carey serves as a judge. The clip will be available on Vevo and YouTube immediately following the premiere.
Once the song debuts, Carey will expand her illustrious Hot 100 history. She boasts 18 No. 1s, the most among solo artists and second overall only to the Beatles' 20. She's tallied 44 Hot 100 entries, 27 of which have reached the top 10. She last reached the top 10 with the No. 7 hit "Obsessed" in 2009 and last led the list with "Touch My Body" in 2008.
(Billboard)
Mariah Carey Will Sing Medley of Hits on “American Idol” Finale
This is an update of a piece I wrote over the weekend: Mariah Carey will sing a medley of her hits– and there are a lot of them– on the season finale of “American Idol” on May 16th. Carey hasn’t performed on “Idol” this season yet. But she will debut her new single featuring Miguel, called “#Beautiful,” on Wednesday’s “Idol” May 8th. The single is already a huge hit after just a day or more in release. “Beautiful” was picked up 65 Top 40 stations and a bunch more today. You can hear it literally in every major market right now, which means by the “Idol” finale “Beautiful” may be another Mariah Carey number 1 song.
(Showbiz411)
ATTENTION LAMBS THAT WANT TO HELP WITH CHARTING IN THE US
Open the audio in yourepeat for more spins!You can even just mute it and leave your computer for the day! CLICK HERE!!!
*Please share this link to all USA friends, help MC to get number 1.
#Beautiful is a SGSHW!
DOWNLOAD #BEAUTIFUL ON iTunes
After only one day of airplay, Mariah's new single "#Beautiful" featuring Miguel recorded an astounding total of 2819 spins (Pop - 1317, Rhythmic - 463, AC - 438, Hot A/C - 335, Urban - 263, Urban A/C - 3) that accounted for a total of 32.528 million in audience impressions!
#1
On iTunes in 11 Countries in 24 hours of release.
Amazing Reviews
"#Beautiful" just may be said jam of the summer.
- Randall Roberts
Los Angeles Times Pop Music Critic
USA Today
"Wouldn't you know, the single kinda lives up to its name. For the first verse or so, you wouldn't know it was a Carey track, though: It begins with a simple, twangy guitar lick that sounds like something Steve Cropper might have dreamed up for Carla Thomas back in the day, and Miguel is the main voice until the minute-thirty mark. After that, though, Carey sounds like her own personal girl group.
In fact, it's that Stax/Motown throwback sound that makes #Beautiful such a winner. It's a return to form for Carey, but in a completely unexpected way."
PopCrush
"The song is stripped down pop — there’s no heavy duty production, no vocal editing, no post-recorded sheen. The vocals, melodies and harmonies shine, as well they should, seeing as one of the best singers to ever live and one of the best singers in the current game are teaming up... Carey is back to her best form: Radio-ready pop that still has the R&B flavor she enjoys dipping into so much (and sometimes too much, based on sales). With its combination of edgy lyrics and a traditional sound, "Beautiful" is just that: Beautiful.
New York Magazine
"Song of Summer 2013: Mariah Carey and Miguel Would Like Your Attention. Well, this is a game-changer: Not only is Miguel and Mariah Carey's duet very good — in both a vintage Mariah and a legitimately summery sort of way — but it has an actual hashtag in the title. (Yes, Will.I.Am did it first, but did you really care?) True fact: The only thing cooler than mysterious French guys in shiny helmets is enjoyable music with built-in Twitter jokes. So here is "#Beautiful," your newest Song of Summer contender and the reason your aunt will be calling in three weeks to ask about hashtags."
VH1 Save The Music
The verdict is IN! @MariahCarey & @MiguelUnlimited have THE song of the summer! LOVE it!
Spin
"Beautiful" (or "#Beautiful," depending on your tolerance for hashtags) is Mariah Carey's new single featuring Miguel, and it's a good one. With its windows-down guitar riff and glistening production, it stems directly from tracks like "Do You..." and "The Thrill" from Miguel's 2012 album Kaleidoscope Dream (SPIN's #5 album of last year), but with a verse-chorus fluidity and breezy hook that should push it up the pop charts. Carey is almost an accent on her own song, but that's besides the point; at just three minutes and 22 seconds, "Beautiful" is what summer is made of.
Slate
"With the release today of "#Beautiful," though, a breezy duet sung with Miguel, Carey has finally given her fans something to savor-and a tune that could be one of the big hits of summer... Nonetheless, "#Beautiful" is a wonderfully easy listen, with the duo's voices blending smoothly together, accompanied by lush, almost Wall-of-Sound production. It's an interesting departure for Carey, whose recordings over the last 15 years or so have veered toward a more modern R&B sound. Here, the production is pure pop, and it sounds great."
92.3 NOW - New York
Mariah Carey and Miguel lift their voices in praise with "#Beautiful," Mariah's enchanting new single that is unlike any track you've ever heard from the queen of the Lambs.
For this pairing, the duo harmonize over a stripped-down, insistent guitar riff and drum-machine beats. Miguel eases into the first verse and chorus over sparse instrumentation, while Mariah comes in for the second and the track beings to build.
Mariah pushes the limits with her trademark vocal accents that comes to a climax on the final chorus, where she and Miguel layer their vocals atop one another's to create an effect that is at once delicate and powerful.
MTV Buzzworthy
We kiiiiind of hate the word "comeback" in regards to Mariah Carey, because, well, it's not like she ever went away. She took a small hiatus from the musical spotlight, but we still saw her posing adorably with Dem Babies, watched her battle it out with Nicki Minaj on "American Idol," and listened to a few less-than-special songs like "Almost Home." That in mind, Mariah's latest endeavor, "#Beautiful," featuring the mad soulful Miguel, is OFF THE CHAIN. So, even though we kinda hate to say it: "Welcome back, Mimi!" ... Wanna know what else we think is beautiful? Aside from Miguel and Mariah's faces AND the Cinderella-themed gown Mariah wore to renew her vows in Disneyland?? THIS SONG! Keep up the good work, Mariah!
Monday, May 6, 2013
Mariah Carey debuts a new "texture" on "#Beautiful"
What happens when Mariah Carey and Miguel get together on some new music? Something "#Beautiful". The new track, the lead single off Carey's 2013 album release, debuted on Monday (May 6), and it seamlessly combines her signature vocals with Miguel's groovy, sexy R&B style. It kicks off with a sultry guitar riff and some tambourine and from there it sears, with a beat that sounds like it was lifted off a Motown track.The twosome trade verses about how they thrill each other on late-night motorcycle rides. The chorus feels particularly Miguel-inspired as they sing, "Cause it's beautiful. Ooh, you make me feel undressable. And I can't pretend that doesn't mean a thing to me, to me. Oh, you're beautiful. And your mind is fucking beautiful. And I can't pretend that. That doesn't mean a thing to me, to me."
Carey called into Ryan Seacrest on Monday and explained why she wanted to hook up with the Grammy winner on the release. "I'm a huge fan of his music and as I think everybody's just so blown away by him right now," she said. "We got together. He had started writing this song with just the guitar riff. He's the truth," she said, before adding that she wanted the track to have "a texture that feels fresh".
Late last month, Miguel wouldn't confirm the rumors that he had hooked up with MC on this new track, but did share why he would want to work with her, if given the chance. He said, "I mean I fell in love with Mariah Carey when she walked out of the pool in the 'Honey' video in 1997. That 'Honey' video, that was it. And I've had a huge crush on her ever since. And, so, if we ever do have a chance, you know all respect to Carey's husband Nick Cannon, all love. I think I have a huge crush more on her as a musician, and I think it would be really great."
During her chat with Seacrest, it was confirmed that the video, reportedly directed by Joseph Kahn, will premiere on Wednesday during "American Idol". "It's the antithesis of the person you see on 'American Idol'," she said about the clip.
And "Idol" fans should be excited because she confirmed that finalists Candice, Kree and Angie recorded backup vocals for a song that may make the final cut on the forthcoming album release. So, when should fans expect it? "Probably, we're talking earlier than mid-summer, which is a lot of pressure on me. It's evolving so much," she said.
(MTV News)
#Beautiful Lyrics
[Intro]
Ah, ah, you’re beautiful
Yeah
Ah, ah, you’re beautiful
[Verse 1]
Hop on the back of my bike
Let the good wind blow through your hair
With an ass like that and a smile so bright
Oh, you’re killing me, you know it ain’t fair, yeah
Ride on through the middle of the night
Let the moonlight kiss your skin
When you dance like that, your jeans so tight
Oh, you’re killing me, baby do it again
[Chorus]
You’re beautiful, and your mind is # beautiful
And I can’t pretend that that doesn’t mean a thing to me, to me, yeah
You’re beautiful, good lord, you’re # beautiful
And I can’t pretend that that doesn’t mean a thing to me, to me, yeah, yeah
[Verse 2]
I like when you run red lights
Don’t stop ’til you thrill me, oh how you thrill me
Always in control, how you do it, I don’t know
But I don’t care, take me anywhere
[Chorus]
‘Cause it’s beautiful, ooh you make me feel undressable
And I can’t pretend that that doesn’t mean a thing to me, to me, oh yeah
You’re beautiful, and your mind is # beautiful
And I can’t pretend that that doesn’t mean a thing to me, to me, yes
You’re beautiful, good lord, you’re # beautiful (so beautiful)
And I can’t pretend that that doesn’t mean a thing to me, to me, yeah
Yeah, yeah
[Middle 8]
Oh oh oh oh
Yeah yeah
You don’t know what you’re doing darling
Come on back my bike darling
Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh, etc.
Don’t you worry darling
Saturday, May 4, 2013
#Beautiful details!!!
Below are the important details on the radio & iTunes launch of Mariah's brand-new hot single, "#Beautiful" featuring Miguel.
#Beautiful (Mariah Carey featuring Miguel)
Written by: Miguel Pimentel, Mariah Carey, Nathan Perez and Brook Davis
Produced by: Miguel and Mariah Carey
Co-Produced by: Happy Perez
• The single's full length run time is 3:23. This is the length of the commercial version which will be released to iTunes and other digital outlets.
• The single will premiere on Clear Channel radio stations at 7:00am EDT on Monday, May 6th. No other stations are allowed to play the song before the set time. Right after the premiere, the single will be serviced to media and other radio stations.
• The single will be released on iTunes at 8:00am EDT on Monday, May 6th. A "Mastered for iTunes" version will also be available for download. All other digital outlets will release the song the following day, May 7th.
• A lyrics video (run time of 3:22) will be available on YouTube on Monday, May 6th.
• The official music video has been finalized and will premiere on American Idol on Wednesday, May 8th.
(MDJ)
Mariah Negotiating For Big Idol Finale Performance
It’s not completely a done deal, but I'm told this will happen: Mariah Carey will perform on the American Idol finale on May 16th. She will sing her brand new single called "#Beautiful." (That's hashtag, if you were wondering.) I told you last night exclusively that Mariah's video of "#Beautiful" will debut on this Wednesday's Idol.
One thing still not certain: who will sing it with her? Miguel, who performs the duet on the single, is on tour and may not be able to do it. He's got to be in Liverpool, England two days later to open for Alicia Keys. Sources say something very cool is in the works. (Nick Cannon, maybe? Nicki Minaj? Stay tuned.)
It does seem like with falling ratings and re-considerations, Mariah and Idol are making up instead of breaking up. Isn’t that swell? I do hope when she performs "#Beautiful" on Idol, Mariah sings a slightly longer version than the one being released this Monday to radio stations at 7am. It's a great song and deserves a big finale. Carey will jump from the Idol finale to a special appearance on Good Morning America just eight days later on May 24th.
Did I tell you yesterday that "#Beautiful" reminds me of "Dreamlover," Mariah’s 1993 smash? It's got that feel. It's also got a cool retro vibe. There's some static in the background and it sounds like a record - a 45 rpm record- is playing.
PS The two hour Idol finale will feature lots of the show's past participants. Also, I've heard Carly Rae Jepsen will call them, maybe.
(Showbiz 411/Roger Friedman)
Friday, May 3, 2013
Mariah Carey Exclusives: New Video Will Debut on “Idol,” New Album Coming, New Manager Hired
Mariah Carey runs to the rescue of “American Idol.” With ratings precariously low, and “The Voice” playing directly against it next Wednesday, “American Idol” needed something to give it a boost. That brings Mariah to the story. She’ll debut the new video for her new song, “Beautiful,” on the show on May 8th. “Beautiful” is a mid tempo pop song with an usually catchy and sophisticated melody. It’s co-written, sung and produced by newish sensation Miguel. I’ve heard “Beautiful” and it’s a hit. A real hit that fans will sing along with.
The rather short–about 3 minutes, 3 seconds– single opens with Miguel singing to an acoustic guitar. After the first verse and chorus, Mariah makes a spine-tingling entrance. I am told her album, still unnamed, is just in this vein– lots of great singing, very little singing, no hip hop, all songs with a capital S. My only peeve about “Beautiful” is that it’s too short– I think the album version should be longer.
And the album– it’s coming sometime between June 25th and July 7th, my sources say. First Island DefJam has to launch Kanye West’s new album, recorded in Paris, on June 18th. That’s confirmed also, but no title has been given. It should be called “Keeping Up with the Kardashians– Literally.”
And here’s another scoop: while we were sleeping, Mariah changed managers. She and Randy Jackson decided their schedules were too hectic. So Carey has signed with Red Light, the same place Steven Tyler just joined. Red Light is the brainchild of Corin Capshaw, the mastermind behind Dave Matthews. It’s a hot hot agency.
(Showbiz 411/Roger Friedman)
A Comparison of Mariah Carey & Nicki Minaj’s Chart Achievements
know that Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj have been engaged in a bitter feud since the start of this season of American Idol. Yet, the latter and her fans somehow got the idea that she had done enough throughout her short career to match the legacy of Carey.
Minaj recently matched Carey’s 44 entries on the Billboard Hot 100 but is that enough to draw parallels between her and her foe? This is where I step in with my trust archive of music history facts to bring a fresh perspective to the ongoing debate. Check out the breakdown of Carey and Minaj’s chart achievements below:
Billboard Hot 100 Entries
Since bursting onto the music scene with her debut single, “Vision of Love”, in 1990, Carey has scored 44 Hot 100 hits. Minaj has already matched that feat in just over 3 years but there is a very important distinction between their accomplishments.
Carey landed 42 of her 44 songs on the Hot 100 as a lead artist whereas Minaj was only the main act on 17 of her hits (she was merely featured on 27 additional chart entries). Still, both women’s numbers seem quite basic when compared to Aretha Franklin’s 73 Hot 100 hits (the most among solo female artists), Lil Wayne’s 115 (the most among solo male artists) and the Glee cast’s 206 (the most among all acts).
Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 Hits
Minaj has thus far logged a total of 9 top 10 hits on the Hot 100 since landing her first chart entry in 2010. That is quite impressive but how does that figure compare to Carey’s total? The latter has placed 27 top 10 hits on the lineup, which ranks her in 5th place among artists with the most such titles.
Additionally, Carey clocked 11 consecutive Hot 100 top 10 singles from her “Vision of Love” debut in 1990 until her streak was broken by “Anytime You Need a Friend”, which peaked at #12, in 1994. By the way Madonna still leads all artists with 38 top 10 hits and the Ancient One does not share power.
Billboard Hot 100 #1 Songs
This is where the scales really tip in favour of Carey. To date, she has scored 18 #1 singles on the Hot 100, which is more than any solo act in the 54-year history of the chart and second only to The Beatles’ 20. Minaj, on the other hand, never topped the Hot 100.
In fact, Minaj’s highest-ranking singles are the #3 “Super Bass” and Britney Spears’ “Till the World Ends (The Femme Fatale Remix)”. So, her ratio of Hot 100 entries, top 10 songs and #1 hits is currently 44: 9: 0. Conversely, Carey’s ratio is 44: 27: 18.
Since Minaj doesn’t have a #1 song on the Hot 100, let’s take a quick look at some of Carey’s other achievements atop the chart:
Carey was the first female artist to debut at #1 with “Fantasy” in September 1995.
Carey is the only artist to score consecutive #1 debuts – “Fantasy” and “One Sweet Day”.
Carey is the only artist to land 3 #1 debuts – “Fantasy”, “One Sweet Day” and “Honey”.
Carey is ranked as the most successful debut artist in history as her first 5 singles all reached #1 – “Vision of Love”, “Someday”, “Love Takes Time”, “I Don’t Wanna Cry” and “Emotions”.
Carey is the only solo artist to place 2 songs #1 for 10 weeks or longer – “One Sweet Day” (16) and “We Belong Together” (14).
Carey is tied with Elvis Presley for spending the most cumulative weeks at #1 (79).
Billboard 200 #1 Albums
Both of Minaj’s studio albums – Pink Friday and Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded – topped the Billboard 200, which represents an incredibly rare accomplishment for a Hip-Hop act. Still, that’s not very impressive when compared to Carey’s 6 #1 albums on the lineup, although given the length of Carey’s career – 23 years and counting – it would be unfair to draw a parallel between the 2 women on this basis.
Biggest-Selling Album (US)
Minaj’s best-selling album is her platinum Pink Friday debut, which has sold over 1.80 million copies in the US since being released in November 2010. Carey’s top-performing set is 1995′s diamond-certifed Daydream, which has sold 7.61 million copies according to Nielsen SoundScan.
Of course, album sales were healthier during the 1990s so let’s judge Carey most recent non-Holiday album, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel. That set has sold 550K copies since September 2009. Far from the blockbuster figures of Carey’s youth and definitely not on par with Minaj’s sales.
Most Successful Collaboration
As a lead artist, Minaj’s most successful collaboration has been “Moment 4 Life”, which peaked at #13 on the Hot 100 while as a guest act, Minaj reached #3 on Britney Spears’ “Till the World Ends (The Femme Fatale Remix)”. Also, her biggest-selling collaborative single is Trey Songz’s triple platinum “Bottoms Up”.
Carey’s most successful collaboration, on the other hand, dwarfs everything put forward by Minaj. “One Sweet Day” – a joint effort with Boyz II Men – was #1 the Hot 100 for 16 consecutive weeks, which is longer that any song in the history of the chart. Additionally, the track was named at the Billboard Song of the Decade during the 1990s and has sold over 2.33 million physical singles in the US alone.
So, what have we learned? Despite her current success, Minaj’s achievements are easily overshadowed by those of Carey. Yet, that’s the case with almost any artist when compared to a true chart giant. Before we go, let’s remember happier days when Carey and Minaj joined forces for “Up Out My Face”: HERE
(The Lava Lizard)
Nicki taunts Mariah by waving a cotton swab at her...
Fireworks flew after Nicki told Miller, 18, from Beverly, Massachusetts, that she reminded her of a "Disney Princess" and that her looks, voice and disposition reminded her of "Beauty and the Beast". Nicki said: "I could totally see you singing those kind of songs on Broadway, you have a very Broadway type of thing. Something you should work and concentrate on is your high notes as when you hit them you seem to get into it and your face and your body transforms so just get the beginning to there."
Throughout Minaj's criticism Mariah mumbled under her breath and shook her head in disbelief. When it came to Mariah's turn she said she had to disagree with "certain" judges who claim Angie was better off singing at the top of her range and having a "happy Disney princess moment". A riled Nicki immediately rolled her eyes, and fired back insisting "I didn't say that." That earned a finger wag from Mariah, who shot back "Oh excuse me, the music will cut me off."
But Nicki would not take it laying down, going into her purse for some ear buds and trying to hand them over to Mariah while repeatedly telling the diva to "Clean your ears out, clean your ears out." Mariah shot back "Darling, let me express this to her as a singer. Just sing from your heart every time and your notes will continue to shine regardless of the dirt that gets splattered around you."
The show's dashing host Ryan Seacrest then got involved, warning them about their Punch and Judy-esque behaviour. "Someone is going to go to the corner, we have to get to the end of the show ladies. Are we all still on for dinner?" he joked.
Each of the top four was asked to sing a current hit and a standard, under the mentorship of crooner Harry Connick Jr. Partially deaf Miller earlier kicked off the show with "Diamonds" by Rihanna. "While I commend you doing an original take on that I didn't feel that was the song to do that do. I was waiting for it to happen and it never happened," said judge Keith Urban, wearing an "I Am The Stig" Top Gear t-shirt.
"It was bland, it was lackluster, you can do a lot better," said an equally unimpressed Nicki Minaj. "It is a great song but I agree with Keith, it did not go anywhere. I do like the leather shorts though!!!" said Randy Jackson. "I do think you tried to take it to another place but I also must agree that there was a bit of a sense that you were playing to the camera more than the usual Angie who is lost in the moment," said Mariah.
Nicki then talked over Mariah and saying "Oh so you must agree with Nicki?" Mariah waved off her fellow judge and took a swipe at her, saying "Back to the Billboard Hot 100 number ones, which you just performed, it is difficult to get and and not everyone has one, you did a great job."
Farm girl Amber Holcomb, 18, from Shepherd, Texas, "Just Give Me A Reason" by Pink and Nate Ruess. Amber admitted during rehearsals that she was struggling to remember the words to the hit tune. "In the earlier video footage you seem so free spirited and are very relatable, humming and forgetting the words, but there is a big difference between that girl and this girl that just performed," said Nicki. "The voice was there but this performance did not seem very connected. Sometimes you were in, sometimes you were out, you have got to do a better job bringing that girl into the performances."
"At this point in the competition something happens with the contestants where it gets serious and the fun goes away," said Randy. "Did you have a good time tonight? You looked out of your mind nervous. You have got to have fun, this is not the same care-free Amber, something is in the air tonight. That was not stellar."
"We need to see that confident Amber we have been seeing and you will continue to go on," said Mariah. "You are performing in front of millions of people and that is pretty bizarre but there was a clarity in your voice, I am hearing a song like you wrote it. Fantastic," said Keith.
Candice Glover, 23, from South Carolina, then performed "When I was Your Man" by Bruno Mars. "Emotions are running high with the contestants but this is a singing competition and I have always said if you can sing, you can sing anything. This girl right here, that is how you sing a song. That was amazing," said Randy.
"Candice knows how to take any song and has the musicality to change it to suit her. That is what separates you from almost everyone else in this competition," said Mariah. "When you sing that good, that is a winning performance baby. Beautiful," said Keith. "That performance deserved a standing ovation," said Nicki bringing the judges to their feet. "You gave me everything. I don't know if you lost weight baby girl but you look great, you look and feel like an artist. You are a singer's singer."
Texas-born country singer, Kree Harrison, 22, then did "See You Again" by Carrie Underwood. "I felt you were very connected and I felt you, I was really happy. You did not go wild at the end on a complete vocal tirade but I enjoy you because of how authentic you are," said Mariah.
"I loved my Kreedom's performance, you sang with your eyes and I felt you absolutely connected with every lyric in that song and you sang it from your heart," said Nicki. "Somebody is going to win this thing and I am now really focussed on the voice and less on the song. You have got an amazing voice. I loved that," said Randy. Mentor Harry Connick Jr. was so impressed he came out on stage to give Kree a hug.
The second part of the show was dedicated to standards. Amber Holcomb sang the standard "My Funny Valentine", after Harry Connick Jr. had to explain the meaning of the lyrics to her. "Up there looking like a budding red rose. That was so beautiful. Why do you look like you want to cry?" said Nicki. "I am just overwhelmed," said Amber shedding tears on stage. "Stop thinking about votes, it doesn't matter about votes, you are a superstar and you have fans, please believe in yourself," said Nicki.
"I think you made a believer out of a lot of people who were on the fence," said Randy. "The last half of that song was absolutely unbelievable. You should be proud of yourself, you slayed it." Mariah praised the "spirit" with which Amber sang, while Keith called the performance "stellar" after she got her confidence back.
Candice Glover then took on "You've Changed", which got her a standing ovation from the judges. "Man. Candice is in it to win it tonight. She brought everything she needed and that was her amazing voice," said Randy. "Oh I hated it, that was the worst thing I've heard in my life," joked Mariah. "There is no critique, I am going to download it ASAP. This girl is anointed, your voice is spectacular."
"I loved watching Mariah watch you, it was incredible. Your power and control was just beautiful, that was a really great performance,' said Keith. "I am not going to add anything else, Ryan, come on out," said Nicki.
Kree Harrison then sang "Stormy Weather". "I was interested in the choice of song. You look gorgeous and elegant, beautiful. I thought you would have done something more bluesy and less loungy, something a bit more gritty," said Mariah. "I would have chosen a different song and we wouldn't be having this conversation. Don't ever lose the things that are natural about your style, your instincts are beautiful and separate you from other people, never lose those," said Keith.
"I wish you guys would have paid more attention to the song choice, whether you are going to put someone to sleep or give a memorable performance," said Nicki. "The disconnect between you, Harry and the song, you need to stick to who you are," said Randy.
This brought deep frowns from Connick Jr. as he sat in the audience and listened to the criticism of his coaching, before being brought up on stage by Keith Urban. Harry took offense at Randy saying he had told Kree to base her performance on the wrong version of the song. "You have to learn the song first, then be Kree," said Harry.
All four girls then finished the show off by together performing Wings by "Little Mix" from British X-Factor.
(Mail Online)
Trashy blogger Perez Hilton gets into the mix
Well, celebrity blogger Perez Hilton did stoke the fires. Let's backtrack, shall we? On Wednesday's Idol, upon critiquing a contestant's performance, Carey made a jab in Minaj's direction, saying: "Again, back to the Billboard Hot 100, No. 1 song, which you just performed - which is difficult to get; not everybody has that."
Here's where Hilton comes in: responding to a Thursday morning post on his gossip website which declared "Mariah Carey burns Nicki Minaj on Idol," Minaj tweeted to Hilton, "Bwaha! Burn? She's said I tied her record for Hot 100 entries in only 3 years of being in the game. Yep, a black female rapper."
And then: "What you should be doing (wit your messy ...) is asking why a woman so successful at her age, is still so insecure, and bitter." Oh, and Minaj also alluded to rumors that Idol wants Jennifer Lopez back on the judging panel: "All them #1s but JLo phone ringing? Lol. I guess having a personality, being a secure woman, and giving genuine critique still trumps that."
(USA Today)
Thursday, May 2, 2013
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