WildWritings.com | News

7 January 03

// Media updated with the new Justin Timberlake video, "Cry My A River" Check it out in media.

//Kevin Richardson in NY

Backstreet Boys star Kevin Richardson has rented an apartment in New York City due to his role in the Broadway mussical 'Chicago'. Kevin plays the part of the lawyer, Billy Flynn. The musical starts on

//Madonna To Release New Album In April

The Mirror reports Madonna will be releasing her new album in April. She hasn't decided on a title yet, but told Larry King that she's considering giving it a Hebrew name such as 'Ein Sof' (meaning Endlessness). The say one of the tracks is a whopping 12 minutes long. She'll be doing a photo shoot for the disc this week with photographer Craig McDean. A source said, "She is also planning a special tour for her fans."

//Jermaine Dupri Insists Janet Jackson Is Faithful

Jermaine Dupri insists to Honey magazine that his girlfriend Janet Jackson has been faithful, despite reports she was two-timing him with *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake. JD gushes, "I love being around her! When I'm with her, I don't think about anybody else. She's a very beautiful person."

// Shania to take over Super Bowl

Having apparently exhausted the list of American performers big enough to play the halftime show at the Super Bowl, the National Football League has followed up last year's booking of Ireland's U2 by hiring Canadian Shania Twain to sing at this year's event. She'll be the headline performer at the game, which will be broadcast live on ABC from San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium on Jan. 26, though the NFL is expected to announce a roster of pre-show performers soon.

''The AT&T Super Bowl Halftime Show is an important part of the Super Bowl and one of the most widely viewed entertainment events of the year,'' said NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue in a statement. (The NFL expects some 130 Americans and 800 million overseas viewers to watch the game, though it's not clear how many of those will be taking a bathroom break at halftime.) ''We are pleased that the spectacular talent of Shania Twain will become part of our Super Bowl halftime tradition,'' Tagliabue said.

//Ozzy And Sharon Accuse ICM Agent Of Necklace Theft

The New York Daily News reports that on New Year's Eve, Ozzy Osbourne and wife Sharon, who renewed their vows that night - raffled off a $15,000 Asprey diamond necklace at their party at the Beverly Hills Hotel. An ICM agent "won" the necklace - but the Osbournes are claiming she crashed the party and rigged the raffle with stolen tickets. She says she won it fair and square, but the "brokenhearted" couple have issued a statement demanding it back.

//Britney To Play Female Sherlock Holmes

Pop princess Britney Spears is close to signing up to play a modern day female Sherlock Holmes in a new movie project.

The singer is looking for a suitable vehicle for her acting talents since her debut film Crossroads last year.

The project, entitled 221Bcause, is set to be filmed around the busy singer's musical commitments but is to be completed in time for a 2004 release to tie in with the American presidential elections.

A film insider says, "221bcause is the Sherlock Holmes story set in the present and with a female lead. It gets its name from Holmes' address in London's Baker Street. In the story 221b Baker Street now houses a travel agency.

"Britney is a New Yorker working there and she notices letters arriving for Sherlock Holmes. She starts to answer them as the detective and it leads her back to New York trying to trace the president's son."

6 January 03

//Kylie Minogue Goes Punk

The Sunday People reports Kylie Minogue has taken on a new punk image. Top fashion stylist Karen Crook said, "Kylie is the ultimate trend setter and her new image will undoubtedly set the fashion agenda for the spring and summer. As Kylie demonstrates, the key to the punk look is mixing it with a bit of glamour. String vests and baggy trousers with lots of zips and buckles are going to be huge."

//Ice Cube has put a chill on Dr. Dre's supposed final album.

Dre has pushed back the release of his highly anticipated Detox from next summer to the end of 2003 in order to produce his former N.W.A partner's next release.

Cube and the good doctor entered the studio two weeks ago and have already laid down a couple of beats.

"I haven't heard him on the mic just yet," Dre said. "He's got a couple of tracks that I think are banging, so I'm just waiting to see what he is going to come with."

Meanwhile, Dre has been working with newcomer 50 Cent, who also signed to Aftermath, in a joint deal with Eminem's Shady Records.

"Me and 50 got in the studio for the first time and we worked together for like five days and we did seven joints," Dre said on the set of 50 Cent's "In Da Club" video. "Six of them went on the album and one of them is out right now on a mixtape."

Like Eminem, Dre has more than a few kind words to say about the Queens, New York, rapper.

"50's album, in my opinion, is going to compete with all the classic hip-hop records that have come out over the last 10 years," he said. "Illmatic, The Chronic, Marshall Mathers LP, it's right up there. And that's no bullsh--."

Once his album is finished, Dre plans on hanging up his solo-artist hat and focusing on his career as a producer, most likely working alongside his protégé Eminem.

//'Dirrty' Christina Gonna Get Tidied Up At AMAs

The San Francisco Chronicle caught up with Dick Clark who is behind the American Music Awards which take place on January 13th. Asked about the image makeover by Christina Aguilera, who is performing at the show, he said, "I think, in all honesty, it's a necessary move. Whether she's gone too far with it is up to question. But both she and Britney and the boy bands have to grow up and move on." Don't look for the raunchy singer to perform in a bikini and chaps at the show though. "I think she will probably get a little tidied up," Clark said. "I shouldn't use 'tidy'; I mean, covered up. For cable television and her videos she can get away with more, but this is broadcast television." In other Christina news, she reportedly resigned her Coca-Cola contract.

//50 Cent Released

50 Cent has been released from police custody following his arrest in New York this week.

As previously reported, the Queens rapper real name Curtis Jackson was arrested early Tuesday morning when police allegedly discovered him in possession of two loaded handguns.

The Shady Records star, who is said to have had the firearms within his rented Jeep, was charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.

Three members of his entourage were charged similarly, having been present in the car at the time of the police search.

According to the district attorney's office, prosecutors declined to charge the hired driver of the vehicle.

MTV News reports that Jackson's bail was set at $10,000, which was posted on Tuesday. Lower amounts of bail were set for the others.

//J.Lo Heart-broken To Watch Ben Die On Screen

Jennifer Lopez insisted scenes on new movie Gigli were re-shot, because she couldn't bear watching co-star and fiance Ben Affleck die on screen.

The pair were rumoured to be furious when producers called them back to the set to remake the film' closing scenes.

But sources now claim it was Lopez who demanded the reshoot.

The source tells British tabloid the Daily Star, "The pair of them were spotted arguing and people thought it was because they were having to re-shoot. The truth couldn't be more different.

"Jennifer wanted the film re-shot because she couldn't bear Ben dying on-screen".

"It's amazing really, but she pleaded with the studio to get the scriptwriters to change the ending. In the end, they decided that what she wants she would get and they wrote in a happier ending."

Gigli is the story of a Los Angeles hitman, played by Daredevil actor Ben, who thinks he has found himself the perfect job. But after a failed kidnap attempt, Ben's character thinks things can only get worse until he meets J.Lo's character who has been sent to lend a helping hand.

The original ending saw Ben's character shot in front of Jen, but this has been changed after the sensitive actress broke down in tears when she watched the scene.

5 January 03

//The contest has been extended! Your last days are here! Join the contest here to win music, promotional posters, and memorabilia from your favorite stars!

//Fashion dishes out some new reviews for 2003. Kylie gets a thumbs down, while Cameron is praised for her style.

//Check out media for the top 10 songs on Wild Writings! Also check out the new wallpapers of Christina, Britney, Mariah, Justin Timberlake, and the Artist of the Month, Missy Elliott. Vote for your favorite song here.

//Grammy Announcements On E!

*NSYNC star Justin Timberlake, Ashanti, Avril Lavigne, Nelly, and John Mayer will be announcing the Grammy nominations live from Madison Square Garden in New York on Tuesday (January 6). See it live on E! news Live at 8am - 9:30am EST.

//Murder Inc Raided

Chuck Philips of the Los Angeles Times reports federal authorities Friday raided the Manhattan offices of record label Murder Inc. as part of an investigation into the expanding empire of music mogul Irv Gotti. The early-morning action was undertaken by a federal task force that for the last year has been investigating whether Gotti, whose real name is Irving Lorenzo, has financial ties to Kenneth McGriff, the convicted head of a notorious Queens, N.Y., drug gang called the Supreme Team.

//Stars Hit Missy Elliott's Platinum Snow Ball

*NSYNC star JC Chasez, Blu Cantrell, Tweet, and Sean 'P. Diddy' Combs were on hand at Missy Elliott's Platinum Snow Ball to celebrate platinum status of her album 'Under Construction' on Sunday (December 29) at Mynt Ultra Lounge in Miami Beach, Florida.

//Photographer/ Video Director Herb Ritts Dies At Age 50

Celebrity photographer Herb Ritts, who directed videos for Madonna, 'NSYNC, Britney Spears and others, died Thursday morning of complications from pneumonia. He was 50.

In March, Ritts worked with Shakira on the video for "Underneath Your Clothes," and last year he was responsible for the desolate apartment visuals in 'NSYNC's heartbroken "Gone," the saucy bounce of Jennifer Lopez's "Ain't It Funny" and the sandy, sexy beach scenery in Britney's "Don't Let Me Be the Last to Know."

Two of Ritts' other well-known videos similarly boasted a skillful blend of sand and sex appeal Madonna's "Cherish" and Chris Isaak's breakthrough "Wicked Game," one of two clips Ritts tackled for the crooner. "Wicked Game" and another Ritts clip, Janet Jackson's "Love Will Never Do (Without You)," won Best Male Video and Best Female Video at the 1991 MTV Video Music Awards.

Herb Ritts was born in Los Angeles in 1952 and majored in economics at New York's Bard College. Shortly after college, in the mid-1970s, Ritts taught himself photography, snapping pictures of friends.

One of his subjects was a friend's boyfriend, then-unknown actor Richard Gere. His shots of the future star led Ritts into the world of celebrity photography with full force. He photographed everyone from Jack Nicholson to Michelle Pfeiffer to Mick Jagger, gaining unprecedented access with many of his subjects, including a paralyzed Christopher Reeve and a post-brain surgery Elizabeth Taylor.

Ritts' work often appeared in magazines like Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar, Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone. He sat actress Brittany Murphy atop a child's rocking horse for a recent Interview magazine cover.

His photos graced album covers, including Madonna's True Blue (1986), and appeared in advertisements for companies like Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, the Gap and Giorgio Armani. He published books of his work and has been displayed in galleries and museums.

//How the Stars Rang in the New Year

While New York was pelted with rain on New Year's Day -- following a fairly mild New Year's Eve -- NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon and Hawaiian Tropic model Deanne Merrymen both doffed their shirts on St. Jean beach on the hot Caribbean island of St. Bart's, as evidenced by a photo in Friday's New York Daily News. Merrymen (for whom Gordon reportedly left his wife, Brooke) is shown in the picture wearing a fashionable top, but the story says she lost it to go swimming with Gordon. Mariah Carey wasn't far way -- at least she was on the same island, as the songbird arrived from Aspen to celebrate New Year's with friends. Meanwhile, USA Today reports that Britney Spears co-hosted a Brazilian carnival-themed New Year's Eve party with new pal Natalie Portman at Manhattan's Hudson Hotel. Guests included Denis Leary, Sam Rockwell and Keri Russell. In Miami, says the paper, those ringing in '03 at the Delano Hotel included JC Chasez, Lenny Kravitz, Rosario Dawson, Shannon Elizabeth, Jamie Foxx, Tara Reid and Rashida Jones. Meanwhile, the Daily News reports that Elizabeth Hurley and 8-month-old son Damian were in Switzerland's St. Moritz, and Mick Jagger, Tommy Hilfiger and Denzel Washington were at Basil's Bar in Mustique. Jagger, however, reportedly remained in his villa. He had a cold.

//Imitation Of J.Lo's Natural Pink Diamond Ring

"Fresh Sexy Clean" shows a picture of an Imitation Pink Tourmaline, often used as October's Birthstone. This pale pink gem is close in color to Jennifer Lopez's Pink Diamond Engagement Ring given to her by fiance Ben Affleck. Check it out here."

//Wade Robson Denies Britney Spears Affair

The Sunday Mail caught up with Australia native Wade Robson who was taking surfing lessons on Main Beach at Surfers Paradise on Saturday and asked whether reports that he had an affair with Britney Spears that led to her split with *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake were true. "We have never been romantically involved," he said. "People have always tried to say that we were together but it wasn't true. We had a very close, creative relationship but that's all."

4 January 03

//The new layout is fully up on the site. Vote here for your favorite song! All media and fashion reviews will be up tomorrow.

//Janet Axed From Chicago Soundtrack

A new Janet Jackson tune written specially for the Chicago soundtrack has been dumped in favour of a track penned by award winning songwriters John Kander and Fred Ebb.

The writers behind Broadway hits like Chicago and Cabaret have been dubbed the Lennon + McCartney of musicals, and when they offered to pen a new tune for the film, producers didn't think twice about bumping Janet.

Jackson and producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis wrote and recorded a song to be featured during the end credits and on the soundtrack of the movie, but the producers decided at the last minute to instead use a new composition from Kander and Ebb.

The new song, titled I Move On, was recorded by the film's stars Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger.

//Christina: Cover Up!

Christina Aguilera has been told to tone down her raunchy image for an appearance on a children's TV show.

According to tabloid reports, the US pop star - who is well known for her revealing outfits - was told by bosses at CD:UK that she should clean up her act for her forthcoming appearance.

The singer caused controversy when she last performed on the show wearing nothing but a bikini top, cowboy chaps and a tiny pair of knickers.

A spokesman for CD:UK told The Sun: "Christina's last performance got the programme into a lot of trouble."

He added: "We were relieved she turned up in more clothes this time."

//Mariah Carey Visits Ex-Boyfriend Luis Miguel

The New York Daily News reports Mariah Carey and friends rang in 2003 with friends at La Plage, where they drank a few bottles of Cristal, leaving around 5 a.m. Carey flew in from Aspen, where she snuck in a reunion with ex-boyfriend Luis Miguel at the St. Regis. Word is she showed up at his hotel in a zipped-down ski parka, though Miguel was spotted just a few days later with Mexican TV host Rebeca de Alba at Renaissance.

//Kylie & Nelly

Kylie Minogue loved her recent photoshoot with Nelly; but she was shocked by his shyness. Kylie apparently chose the Nelly for a recent snap session.. but Nelly was the one to be equipped with the necessary flashy clothes and jewellery; Nevertheless, Kylie had to take the lead when it came to their provocative posing. She says, "I was a big fan. I got to choose who I wanted to be photographed with and I said Nelly. I'm not sure if he was a bit shy with me. I thought, 'Hey you're going to do a million of these so, hey, get ready!'".. "He's got loads of bling bling, millions of clothes and I got two dresses, by the way which were stunning, so I didn't have a problem. The photographer was like 'Nelly you go there and Kylie you hurl yourself on him'. And I said, 'If there's anything uncomfortable, Nelly,' because I was gettin

//Julianne Moore gets engaged

Moore, 42, met Freundlich, 32, when he cast her in 1997's ''The Myth of Fingerprints.'' In an Entertainment Weekly interview in November, she recalled the shoot, saying, ''We started to see each other about two weeks into it. It was casual. I don't think either of us was thinking that we were going to have two children!'' They have a son, Cal, 5, and a daughter, Liv, 9 months.

e down her raunchy image for an appearance on a children's TV show.

3 January 03

//Mariah Carey's Pricey Bathroom Remodel

Globe magazine reports Mariah Carey just imported a truckload of real Sicilian marble from Italy to her New York City penthouse, where workers will cover the floor and walls of her three bathrooms, including the bathtubs. The upgrade will cost $75,000 per room.

//Oceans 12

Entertainment Weekly reports that producer Jerry Weintraub has stated that the script for "Ocean's Twelve" will be completed by the end of 2003 for Steven Soderbergh, and promises that the entire cast will be back.

//50 Cent Arrested

Rapper 50 Cent was arrested in New York this week after police allegedly found two loaded guns on the floor of his rented car.

The Shady Records star had been scheduled to perform at a pre-New Year's Eve event in the early hours of Tuesday morning, but was arrested as he arrived outside the Manhattan venue at around 2am.

According to event promoter Jay Mangan, the rapper - real name Curtis Jackson - was prevented from leaving the bulletproof Jeep Cherokee after police ordered the driver to pull over.

Having cited a traffic offence of double parking, police searched the car and found a .25 caliber handgun in the front passenger floor. A further search of the vehicle turned up another gun - both are said to have been loaded.

//Justin - "I Love Britney"

Justin Timberlake has confessed that he still loves former girlfriend Britney Spears and may never get over her.

The N'SYNC and solo pop superstar split with Britney earlier this year, after more than two years together.

However, and despite being linked with a string of woman, Timberlake confessed to Rolling Stone magazine that he was still hung-up on the Princess of Pop.

He said: "I do have to come to the realisation that I might never recover. But I still love her. I really do still love that girl. "She has a beautiful heart, but if I've lost my trust in someone, I don't think it's right for me to be with them," suggested Timberlake.

//Eminem's Resolutions

Eminem has made public his New Year resolutions to quit drugs and maintain a rigorous exercise routine.

The rapper claims that, three albums in, his lifestyle has become a threat to his health with a constant round of parties, studio work, touring, family disputes and drug use creating a considerable strain.

Commenting on the pressures of super-stardom, he told the Detroit Free Press: "It's almost to the point where I truly believe I may be getting too big for my own good and I never really asked for that."

The rapper remains totally focussed on his work having brought in a total of $300,000,000 last year from two albums and the movie, 8 Mile. "Looking back at this year? I really haven't thought about it," he said. "I haven't taken it all in yet. I never really stop to look back on things and reflect on them. I keep 'em on the head, but I'm concentrating on next year more than anything."

//Britney's partied out

Britney Spears needs a holiday, because her recent vacation has been left her 'partied out'. Britney apparently has been hitting the nightspots of New York after deciding to take some time off following a difficult personal and professional year; leaving her more tired than ever. A friend reports, "She has gone out every night since taking a break six months ago. She's always out at clubs drinking and dancing".

//Diana Ross arrested

Diana Ross has been arrested amid allegations of drink driving, dotmusic can confirm. The legendary pop diva apparently was stopped by police in Arizona, after her car was apparently spotted swerving across the road. Police sergeant Judy Altieri said a breath test on the former Supremes star found she had more than twice the legal drink-driving limit in her system. Diana was released without charge after the arrest, which happened this morning, when her car was spotted swerving in the roads of Tucson. She is due to appear in court on January 13, on three misdemeanour charges. Sgt Altieri said Diana had a blood alcohol level of 0.20, more than twice the legal limit of 0.08. She explained: "It would be what is considered extreme DUI (driving under the influence)".

1 January 03

//Welcome to the new Wild Writings!

The site is not yet finished. However, please visit the music section & movie section. Also see the interview with Brad from LFO, and make sure to join the contest! We will start news tomorrow, and the full site will be up January 5th. Vote for your favorite songs here for our Top 10 Countdown on Media.

Happy New Year!

Canadian teen sensation Avril Lavigne - whose debut album topped the UK chart last weekend - has received nominations for Song Of The Year, Best Newcomer and Best Pop Vocal Performance amongst others.

Meanwhile Eminem - arguably the most successful artist of 2002 - has been nominated for five awards including Best Rap Album, Best Male Rap Solo Performance, Best Video, Record Of The Year and Album Of The Year.

The nominations for this year's awards were revealed today in New York by stars including Lavigne, P Diddy, and Justin Timberlake.

The full list of nominations is as follows:

Album of the Year

Dixie Chicks 'Home'

Eminem 'The Eminem Show'

Norah Jones 'Come Away With Me'

Nelly 'Nellyville'

Bruce Springsteen 'The Rising'

Record of the Year

Vanessa Carlton 'A Thousand Miles'

Eminem 'Without Me'

Norah Jones 'Don't Know Why'

Nelly featuring Kelly Rowland 'Dilemma'

Nickelback 'How You Remind Me'

Song of the Year

Avril Lavigne 'Complicated'

Norah Jones 'Don't Know Why'

Bruce Springsteen 'The Rising'

Vanessa Carlton 'A Thousand Miles'

Best New Artist

Ashanti

Michelle Branch

Norah Jones

Avril Lavigne

John Mayer

Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group

AZ featuring Nas 'The Essence'

Big Tymers 'Still Fly'

Busta Rhymes featuring P. Diddy & Pharrell 'Pass The Courvoisier Part II'

Cam'Ron featuring Juelz Santana 'Oh Boy'

OutKast Featuring Killer Mike 'The Whole World'

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance

Aaliyah 'More Than A Woman'

Ashanti 'Foolish'

Mary J. Blige 'He Think I Don't Know'

Eartha 'I'm Still Standing'

Jill Scott 'He Loves Me (Lyzel in E Flat) (Movements I, II, III)'

Best Male Pop Vocal Performance

Craig David '7 Days'

Elton John 'Original Sin'

John Mayer 'Your Body Is A Wonderland'

Sting 'Fragile'

James Taylor 'October Road'

Best R&B Album

India.Arie 'Voyage To India'

Joe 'Better Days'

Musiq 'Juslisen'

Raphael Saadiq 'Instant Vintage'

Remy Shand 'The Way I Feel'

Best Female Rap Solo Performance

Charli Baltimore 'Diary...'

Missy Elliott 'Scream a.k.a Itchin'

Eve 'Satisfaction'

Foxy Brown 'Na Na Be Like'

Lauryn Hill 'Mystery Of Iniquity'

Best Male Rap Solo Performance

Eminem 'Without Me'

Jay-Z 'Song Cry'

Ludacris 'Rollout (My Business)'

Mystikal 'Bouncin' Back (Bumpin' Me Against The Wall)'

Nelly 'Hot In Herre'

Best Short Form Music Video

Dirty Vegas 'Days Go By'

Eminem 'Without Me'

Knoc-Turn'Al featuring Dr. Dre & Missy Elliott 'Knoc'

Nas 'One Mic'

1 Giant Leap featuring Robbie Williams & Maxi Jazz 'My Culture'

Best Metal Performance

Korn 'Here To Stay'

P.O.D. 'Portrait'

Slipknot 'My Plague'

Stone Sour 'Get Inside'

Rob Zombie 'Never Gonna Stop (The Red, Red Kroovy) '

Best Male Rock Vocal Performance

David Bowie 'Slow Burn'

Elvis Costello '45'

Peter Gabriel 'The Barry Williams Show'

Robert Plant 'Darkness, Darkness'

Bruce Springsteen 'The Rising'

Best Dance Recording

Daniel Bedingfield 'Gotta Get Thru This'

Dirty Vegas 'Days Go By'

Groove Armada 'Superstylin'

Kylie Minogue 'Love At First Sight'

No Doubt'Hella Good'

Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals

Christina Aguilera featuring Redman 'Dirrty'

India.Arie & Stevie Wonder 'Christmas Song'

Tony Bennett & kd lang 'What A Wonderful World'

Natalie Cole & Diana Krall 'Better Than Anything'

Sheryl Crow & Don Henley 'It's So Easy'

Santana & Michelle Branch 'The Game Of Love'

Best Long Form Music Video

The Clash 'Westway To The World'

Nappy Roots 'The World According To Nappy'

1 Giant Leap '1 Giant Leap'

Various Artists 'Welcome To The Club: The Women Of Rockabilly'

Robbie Williams 'Live At The Albert'

Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal

Kenny G featuring Brian McKnight 'All The Way'

Nivea featuring Brian & Brandon Casey of Jagged Edge 'Don't Mess With My Man'

Angie Stone & Joe 'More Than A Woman'

TLC 'Girl Talk'

Stevie Wonder & Take Six 'Love's In Need Of Love Today'

Best Hard Rock Performance

Foo Fighters 'All My Life'

Godsmack 'I Stand Alone'

P.O.D. 'Youth Of The Nation'

Queens Of The Stone Age 'No One Knows'

System Of A Down 'Aerials'

Best Rock Song

Foo Fighters 'All My Life'

Chad Kroeger 'Hero'

Godsmack 'I Stand Alone'

Bruce Springsteen 'The Rising'

3 Doors Down 'When I'm Gone'

Producer of the Year, Non-Classical

Dr. Dre

Nellee Hooper

Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis

Arif Mardin

Rick Rubin

Best Male R&B Vocal Performance

Joe 'Let's Stay Home Tonight'

R. Kelly 'The World's Greatest'

Musiq 'Halfcrazy'

Remy Shand 'Take A Message'

Usher 'U Don't Have To Call'

Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal

Aerosmith 'Girls Of Summer'

Coldplay 'In My Place'

Creed 'My Sacrifice'

Chad Kroeger Featuring Josey Scott 'Hero'

3 Doors Down 'When I'm Gone'

Tonic 'Take Me As I Am'

U2 'Walk On'

Best Rock Album

Elvis Costello 'When I Was Cruel'

Sheryl Crow 'C'mon, C'mon'

Robert Plant 'Dreamland'

Bruce Springsteen 'The Rising'

Tonic 'Head on Straight'

Best R&B Song

Raphael Saadiq Featuring D'Angelo 'Be Here'

Floetry 'Floetry'

India.Arie 'Good Man'

Erykah Badu Featuring Common 'Love Of My Life (An Ode To Hip Hop'

Remy Shand 'Take A Message'

Best Rap Album

Eminem 'The Eminem Show'

Ludacris 'Word of Mouf'

Mystikal 'Tarantula'

Nelly 'Nellyville'

Petey Pablo 'Diary Of A Sinner: 1st Entry'

Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal

Bon Jovi 'Everyday'

Bowling For Soup 'Girl All The Bad Guys Want'

Dave Matthews Band 'Where Are You Going'

No Doubt 'Hey Baby'

'NSYNC 'Girlfriend'

Best Female Rock Vocal Performance

Sheryl Crow 'Steve McQueen'

Melissa Etheridge 'The Weakness In Me'

Avril Lavigne 'Sk8er Boi'

Bonnie Raitt 'Gnawin' On It'

Susan Tedeschi 'Alone'

Best Pop Instrumental Performance

B.B. King 'Auld Lang Syne'

Dave Koz & Jeff Koz 'Blackbird'

Pat Metheny Group 'As It Is'

Moby '18'

Kirk Whalum 'Playing With Fire'

Best Rock Instrumental Performance

The Flaming Lips 'Approaching Pavonis Mons By Balloon (Utopia Planitia) '

Gov't Mule 'Sco-Mule'

Tony Levin 'Apollo'

Joe Satriani 'Starry Night'

Slash 'Love Theme From The Godfather'

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance

Sheryl Crow 'Soak Up The Sun'

Norah Jones 'Don't Know Why'

Avril Lavigne 'Complicated'

Pink 'Get The Party Started'

Britney Spears 'Overprotected'

Best Alternative Music Album

Beck 'Sea Change'

Clinic 'Walking With Thee'

Coldplay 'A Rush Of Blood To The Head'

Elvis Costello & The Imposters 'Cruel Smile'

'Behind The Music' The Soundtrack Of Our Lives

Legendary stars Simon & Garfunkel, Johnny Mathis and Etta James will be presented with lifetime achievement awards at the show.

The 45th annual Grammy Awards will take place at New York's Madison Square Garden on February 23.

//RIAA Website Hacked

The RIAA website has been hacked, and the homepage now humorously lists download links to the major file swapping programs. They've taken down the page but check out a screen capture here.

//Spears Spotted Wearing Diamond Ring On Wedding Finger

The Mirror reports Britney Spears has sparked marriage rumors to perhaps on-again boyfriend Justin Timberlake of *NSYNC by sporting a diamond ring on her wedding finger as she shopped for sexy knickers in Los Angeles. The paper wonders if it is the same ring Timberlake gave to Spears in 2001, even though she told everyone that the pricey ring was a gift from her brother.

//Eminem Inks 'Shady' Clothing Deal

The New York Post reports Eminem has signed a licensing deal with Nesi Apparel to create a collection of sportswear. The new collection, to be called 'Shady,' will be available in department stores for the back-to-school selling period in late summer. The apparel collection will likely be well-received by retailers, predicted David Wolfe, creative director for the Doneger Group, a retail trend and buying office. "Eminem has a wonderful cachet. Especially since parents are [annoyed] by him, he's so appealing to teenagers," he said. Read more.

//New Sony CEO

Sony Music didn't waste any time replacing label chief Tommy Mottola, who stepped down Thursday after more than a decade spent running the company and guiding the careers of such artists as Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, and Jennifer Lopez. On Friday, Sony named Andrew Lack as the label's new chairman and CEO. It was a surprising choice, given that Lack, currently president and chief operating officer of NBC, has no music business background.

Lack, a former NBC news chief who became president of the network in 2001, will surely have something of a culture shock, going from Tom Brokaw and Katie Couric to J. Lo and the Dixie Chicks. But then, his new boss, Sony Corporation of America chairman and CEO Sir Howard Stringer, did the same thing, having run CBS News and then CBS before coming to Sony. In a statement, Stringer seemed to suggest that Lack was being hired as much for his financial acumen as for his media experience, calling Lack ''equally adept at business, management, strategy and value creation, as well as a consummate and proven developer of content, talent and ideas.''

That Mottola was replaced so quickly was another sign that he had not jumped but had been pushed, as anonymous Sony insiders had indicated to the New York Times and Fox News. He'd been criticized within the company for spending lavishly on artists, and in a New York Times interview Friday, he hinted that he was relieved that he would no longer have to be the one responsible for taking draconian measures to cut costs. In recent years, the company had lost market share and run up nine-figure operating losses, while Mottola himself had been the focus of public dust-ups with such artists as ex-wife Carey and Michael Jackson. He had been negotiating for an extension on his contract, which was to expire in 2004; instead, Sony will give him his own label to run.

11 January 03

//Chat Tomorrow! We will be giving out loads of gifts, making announcements, and having trivia at our chat! It's free, go there now!

// Tomorrow is the last day to enter the contest!

//J. Lo Denies Feb. 14 Wedding

(AP) - Singer and actress Jennifer Lopez, in an interview with a Brazilian newspaper, denied rumors she was going to marry actor Ben Affleck on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14.

"We don't know when the wedding will be. We need to sit down together and choose a date," Lopez said in an interview published Sunday in Rio de Janeiro newspaper Jornal do Brasil. The paper said the interview was conducted in a New York hotel but didn't say on what day.

The performer, whose single "Jenny From The Block" stands at No. 6 of this week's Billboard music chart, said she was doing everything to avoid the media hype around her engagement to Affleck.

"I've already been in relationships with other famous people, but I confess that it (the media attention) didn't even come close to the madness it is this time," she said.

Lopez also denied that the couple was planning to spend $1.5 million on their wedding ceremony.

The 32-year-old star has been married twice before.

//Fat Joe on Grammys

Bronx rapper Fat Joe has been spurred by his recent Grammy nomination into making moves to bring together his own independent label operation.

"We're working on this Terror Squad album," he told MTV news. "I think we're gonna put that out independently, just trying to flex our muscle.

I been swearing we could do it ourselves. I don't know if I'm just crazy, but I wanna test the waters.... Who knows if that could be my niche. You go gold with an independent album, you make 10 million. I gotta challenge myself."

Fat Joe is nominated for the Best Rap/Sung Collaboration Grammy for the single 'What's Luv' featuring Ashanti.

"I wasn't expecting it at all," he said. "If I win, it's over. Don't nobody wanna see this nigga win 'cause I'm losing it. I'm screaming, 'The Bronx!' I'm screaming, 'Boriqua!' Wow, it's over. If I win it's a problem.

//O-Town To Sing National Anthem At 49ers Vs. Bucs Game

O-Town will perform the national anthem at the San Francisco 49ers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers playoff game on Sunday (January 12) at Tampa's Raymond James Stadium. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff, and it will be televised on Fox.

//Eve Signs Television Deal With UPN

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Eve has inked a development deal with UPN to produce her own comedy television series. The show will focus on Eve, who stars as a fashion designer and her exploits in the New York fashion world. UPN entertainment president Dawn Ostroff said, "She's one of those unique artists; she's a huge star in the music world, but she also really stands out as an actress. When we saw her in 'Barbershop,' we said, 'Wow, there's really something there.'"

10 January 03

//Wild Writings will be having a chat on Sunday, January 12, @ 9:00 PM ET! Be There!

// Join the contest - ends 1/12/03

//Fred Durst Responds To Britney Rumors

Fred Durst updated the news on Limp Bizkit's official site today, and in his entry this is what he had to say about Britney Spears: "I also know you've heard the rumors about Britney Spears. Well a lot of you are wrong, I did not sing with her okay. I really like her and that's about all I should say. She's a sweet amazing girl and I'm happy to know her right now. you are my family and you know you can trust me and my judgement!!

//Christina Tops Britney with Soda-Pop

The Sun reports Christina Aguilera has had her $75 million deal with Coca-Cola renewed, which they say news of will be a blow to rival Britney Spears. "This deal couldn't have come at a worse time for Britney," a source close to Aguilera said. "It shows that Christina is becoming the bigger of the two pop divas."

//Tommy Mottola Starts Label, Out As Sony CEO

Billboard reports Tommy Mottola has indeed stepped down as chairman/CEO at Sony Music, though he will stay in partnership with Sony on his own label. "I have been thinking about taking up this new challenge for about a year, and really made the decision to go forward only recently," Mottola said in a statement. "I am thrilled that I will continue my long-standing relationship with Sony to create a company that I believe will become a blueprint for the music business in the coming years." Sony will name Mottola's successor within "the next few days."

//Mariah and Michael Jackson contribute to Tommys Mess

Roger Friedman of FoxNews.com reports Tommy Mottola only found out he was leaving when he arrived this morning at Sony Music's offices at 550 Madison in New York. "He was told to go see Sir Howard Stringer, and when he got there they handed him a press release," a source said. Mottola was then given a couple of hours to clear out his office. A deal for a record label was, according to sources, Sony's resolution of the last year of his contract. Friedman says the embarrassing story of Mottola allegedly stealing music from Mariah Carey's 'Glitter' album and passing it to Jennifer Lopez didn't help much, while Michael Jackson riding around Manhattan with a megaphone calling Mottola a racist also didn't help his cause.

9 January 03

//Join the contest & vote for your favorite song on our Wild Countdown Friday!

//Tara And JC Split

Hollywood babe Tara Reid has split up with 'N Sync member JC Chasez - amid claims the actress was using Chasez to further her career.

According to pals of the glamorous pair, they hit problems during the New Year when blonde Reid began trying to make the Girlfriend singer possessive.

A source says, "In Miami she started flirting with other guys to try and make him jealous, and he basically said forget it. It's over completely."

It is also claimed up-and-coming Hollywood star Reid was using Chasez's fame for her own gain.

The source adds, "It was always more about Tara following JC than anything else. It helped her get her press."

//O-Towns 02

In an interview with Melissa from Kiwibox, O-Town openly discussed their feelings on their sophomore album's poor sales. "I mean there's a lot of things we should have done differently, could have done differently, or what I would have personally done differently," said Dan Miller. "At this point though, I don't think it really helps anyone to point fingers. It's not really anybody's fault. As far as the record goes, I mean we did the best we could with the material we put together." Band mate Erik-Michael Estrada added, "I mean right now, I like the fact that we seem to be breaking out like a real band. Almost like a word of mouth kinda thing. I think a lot of people don't know our record is out, and even if they do, it's forcing us to prove ourselves. I mean, just because people may not think the record is out, or the awareness isn't there, or whatever the case may be, it's forcing us to come together and be unified as a group."

//Avril Lavigne Won't Dress Up For Grammy Awards

Katrillion asked Avril Lavigne if she planned on dressing up for this year's Grammy Awards, after the Canadian singer scored five nominations yesterday. Avril says, "You won't be seeing me in high heels this year ... (I'll) probably wear something like I wear everyday."

//Joe Millionaire strikes gold

Who wants to be a ''Millionaire'' viewer? About 18.6 million people. That's the average viewership of Monday's ''Joe Millionaire'' premiere, according to Nielsen. That's the highest-scoring debut for any new series this season, and for any reality show of the past few years, from the first season of ''Survivor'' in 2000 to ''American Idol'' last summer.

Perhaps most surprising, viewership was 42 percent male, compared with 31 percent on average for ABC's similar ''The Bachelor.'' Fox Entertainment president Gail Berman attributed the high number of men watching to successful promotion of the show during the NFL playoffs. ''The male numbers were very high for a relationship-oriented show, and football was a dynamic part of this launch,'' she told Variety.

Of course, ''Joe'' will have only a seven-episode run, and it's unlikely there could be a second season, as potential bachelorettes would already be wise to Fox's bait-and-switch premise. Still, Fox expects to be able to capitalize on the show's momentum by filling its Monday night slot with another courtship reality series, ''Married by America,'' in which viewers decide which contestants will pair off and live together.

//Mariah Carey Fuming Over Sharon's Booby Claim

The Daily Star reports Mariah Carey was fuming backstage after Sharon Osbourne introduced her as having "the best booby job I've ever seen, ever!" A source backstage at the American Music Awards said, "Mariah was very, very angry. She has a sexy image and doesn't want her fans to think she's fake. That will be the last time she appears on any show that has Sharon Osbourne as a host."

//Celine Dion's New Album Due In March

Celine Dion's forthcoming album, 'One Heart,' will be hitting Canadian retail stores on March 25, Sony Music Canada confirms. The album comes out on the same day as Dion's three-year stint at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas kicks off, and almost one year after the release of her last studio effort, 'A New Day Has Come.'

//Kelly Osbourne To Design Clothes For Chunky Girls

Globe magazine reports retail giant Lane Bryant has offered Kelly Osbourne a multi-million dollar deal to design a clothing line for chubby chicks. "Kelly's a fashion leader and she's not weight obsessed," an industry source noted. "She's a role model for a lot of heavier teens." Kelly has said in the past, "I don't think of myself as fat - I think I'm just normal. And I've always wanted to be a fashion designer."

//Madonna Asked To Re-Record Tracks On New Album

The Mirror reports record bosses at Warner Brothers have asked Madonna to re-record a number of tracks on her new album, which is scheduled to be released on April 15th. "Madonna feels like she delivered her best album yet last week but the record label have insisted that the material needs to be changed," a source said. "They really liked what they heard and it's another example of Madonna reinventing herself. But the problem is that it's too avant garde to be a commercial success. She had used far too many electronic synthesisers on her voice and had morphed a lot of her vocals to sound like a robot. There was even a 12-minute long track."

//J.Lo & Ben Affleck May Be Sued By Injured Onlooker

Daily Sport reports Deanna Higley, 56, was temporarily blinded and fell on to rocks after security guards for Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez shined mirrors at crowds watching the filming of Lopez and Affleck's romantic comedy Gigli in Malibu, California. Now Higley is threatening legal action against the pair. "One minute I was picking my way along the beach, the next second I couldn't see anything," she explained. "It was totally irresponsible. If they refuse to help me pay for the medical bills then I will consider starting legal action against them."

//Sony Makes first Cuts

With his last album bombing, The Sun reports Sony has dropped Will Smith from his record deal. The label thinks that at 34 he's too old to appeal to kids. "It doesn't matter how big a star is, if they don't sell records they get dropped simple," declared an industry insider. "Will has had a lot of success selling records but that time has passed. People aren't interested in him as a musician any more. He is big in movies and has obviously sold a lot of records on the back of that, but the demand for his rap projects has dried up."

//TLC Survivors' CD Fails To Collect Death Benefit

While death usually has a positive effect on music acts, TLC has seen disappointing sales of '3D", reports Jim Farber of the New York Daily News. Yet after eight weeks, '3D' has sold 524,075 copies, falling to No. 61 on Billboard's Top 200 Album chart. Now Arista plans to release 'Hands Up,' a far more pop-friendly single. Yet, with the group's quickly lowering profile, it may be too late. Read more.

14 January 03

//Check back later today for an American Music Award run-down!

//Vote for your favorite song here in our media countdown!

//Fox Needs A Hit With 'American Idol 2'

Dave Karger of Entertainment Weekly previewed the new season of 'American Idol', which needs to be a hit for Fox, who has had a tough year in the ratings department, and got burned with the second season of its last reality series, 'Temptation Island'. They also have 'Star Search' up against them, but Simon Cowell isn't impressed. The judge told EW, "That show has a problem. Music in its barest form on television is about as boring as you can get. To put people on without any controversy or good versus evil, it will not work.''

//Bobby Brown Says Whitney & Child Are Wonderful

Extra TV caught up with Ja Rule and Bobby Brown at rehearsals of the American Music Awards over the weekend, where they performed 'Thug Lovin''. Bobby's thoughts were with wife Whitney Houston and their child. He says, "My wife is wonderful. Everybody is wonderful." Watch the clip here.

Jennifer Aniston, nursing a broken toe, needed a cane and a co-star to collect her People's Choice Award.

//Aniston nurses broken toe

Aniston, who plays Rachel Green on the hit NBC series "Friends," used the cane and a helping hand from co-star Matthew Perry Sunday to walk to the stage of the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.

The actress received the award for favorite female television performer during the 29th annual awards show, hosted by Tony Danza.

Aniston broke a toe on her right foot after hitting it on piece of furniture, her publicist said Monday. He didn't elaborate.

"Friends" also won an award for favorite comedy series.

The People's Choice Awards, which were presented live on CBS, cover 16 categories in film, television and drama. A nationwide poll conducted by the Gallup Organization determined both the open-ended nominees and the winners.

//Eve & Ja Tour!

Hip-hop stars Ja Rule and Eve have announced plans for a month long tour of the US, dotmusic can confirm.

The pair will kick off a total of 22-dates with a show in Massachusetts in January 29, travelling across the country throughout February before finishing the tour on March 2.

Ja will headline the tour, which hits cities including Philadelphia, Atlanta, Columbia, Minneapolis, Toronto, Montreal, Pittsburgh and Washington DC among others.

//Tour's now or never

Nick Carter apparently will be spending the latter part of the winter on his very first tour sans Kevin, A.J., Brian and Howie. Nick will sweep through most major American cities and will make one lone Canadian stop in Toronto. Nick is touring in support of his debut solo album, the recently released "Now Or Never". The album has already caused its fair share of controversy and not just because it forced Nick to go head to head with *NSYNC's Justin Timberlake, who also released his debut solo album, "Justified". The album prompted the rest of the Backstreet Boys to launch a law suit against their label, Zomba, for focusing on Nick's solo album rather than supporting the career of the full band. The Backstreet Boys are seeking release from their contract, plus $75 million.

13 January 03

// Contest is over! Winners will be announced soon!

// Thanks to all who helped make the chat last night a success! We had many winners of prizes!

//AMAs Tonight!

The American Music Awards are on tonight. Presenters include 3 Doors Down, Paula Abdul, *N SYNC's JC Chasez, Creed, Sheryl Crow, Jakob Dylan, Carmen Electra, Josh Groban, Patricia Heaton, Lonestar, Mya, Nelly, Mekhi Phifer, Shaggy, Justin Timberlake, Tyrese, & Lee Ann Womack. Performers include Christina Aguilera, B2K, Bobby Brown, Mariah Carey, Kenny Chesney, Missy Elliott, Ja Rule, Elton John, Toby Keith & Willie Nelson, matchbox twenty, Tim McGraw, Nickelback, Kelly Osbourne, & Shania Twain! Hosted by the Osbournes. Check it out on ABC! Come back tomorrow for videos from the show and a recap!

//Mandy Moore Buys LA Area Home For $1.7 Million

The Hartford Courant reports Mandy Moore purchased a Mediterranean-style home in the Los Feliz area of Los Angeles just before the holidays for slightly more than $1.7 million, according to real estate sources. The 18-year-old pop star bought a refurbished 1927 house with five bedrooms and four bathrooms in nearly 4,800 square feet. The home also has terraces, courtyards, a library/study and a family room.

//Hiring A Beefy Bodyguard Isn't Enough Anymore

The New York Post reports on the new level of security celebrities are taking to protect themselves, namely former FBI and CIA specialists. Ben Affleck reportedly hired agents in a bid to protect fiance Jennifer Lopez. The types of security employed by Britney Spears, *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake, and Sean 'P. Diddy' Combs were criticized, appearing to be more for status than real protection. Puff Daddy, who is always escorted by over 10 "grimy Harlem guys from the street, some of whom are ex-cons," says a source close to Combs. His team has been known to start more fights than stop them.

//Jennifer Love Hewitt cries

The Sunday People reports Jennifer Love Hewitt burst into tears after learning Coldplay singer Chris Martin was off the market. The singer/actress was gutted to hear her actress pal Gwyneth Paltrow had hooked up with him. She said on Virgin Radio, "I'm obsessed with Coldplay and Chris Martin is the sexiest ever. I cried for an hour when I found out when they were dating."

12 January 03 - Chat Tonight!

Chat Tonight!

9:00 PM ET

Prizes Including:

01. Missy Elliott Singles

02. Mariah Carey Singles

03. Justin Timberlake Singles

04. Magazines feauring Mariah & Missy

05. Plus Promo Posters from 3LW and Kelly Rowland!

Plus Announcements & Contests! Be There!

21 January 03

//Check back later today for a full review of the American Music Awards, People's Choice Awards, and The Golden Globes! We will have pictures, fashion, videos, and lists of winners! Come back today to view all the glamor and glitz! It will be gone tomorrow..

19 January 03

//Top 10 Media Charts are now up! Check them out here!

//New Fashion reviews from the People's Choice Awards & American Music Awards have arrived here!

//Contest Winners!

1st Place - Mariah Carey 'Charmbracelet' album & 'Through The Rain' Single - JPT1014

2nd Place - Promotional Posters from Shaggy, Kelly Rowland, Nicole Heriot, Plus more! - Jrneto2000

3rd Place - Aerosmith' s 'I don't wanna miss a thing' single from their 'Greatest Hits' album - MBeeHny

Congrats to the winners! For more information, click here.

//NBC To Do Hourlong Special On Jacko's Face

The Washington Post reports NBC Entertainment President Jeff Zucker announced on Friday that the network will be doing an entire hourlong special on Michael Jackson's face during the February sweeps. The 'Dateline' special 'Michael Jackson Unmasked' was approved by NBC President Andrew Lack, who left the network last week to head Sony Music -- Jackson's record label. "I just hope the folks at Sony Music don't complain," Zucker quipped.

//Britney Spears Caught Smoking Again

WorldOfBritney.com has a scan of Britney Spears smoking in her Mercedes recently while driving through Los Angeles. Check it out here.

//Beyonce Added To Super Bowl Pre-Game Lineup

Destiny's Child star Beyonce Knowles has joined the line-up for this year's Super Bowl entertainment. She'll join Santana and Michelle Branch as part of the pre-game festivities. The game airs Sunday, January 26th.

//Fabolous Aint too Great

Fabolous has been arrested twice in the last two days. The first arrest came on Wednesday when the 25-year-old Ghetto Fabolous rapper, was arrested in Manhattan for driving with a suspended licence. Then on Thursday night the charges became more serious. Fabolous, whose real name is John Jackson, was a passenger in a car that was pulled over in Brooklyn after running a red light. Police said they discovered two guns in the car. Fabolous and his two associates were charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.

//Attend Anastacia's Video Shoot In New York

Fans can watch Anastacia shoot her video 'Love is a Crime' from the 'Chicago' soundtrack in a contest running on the singer's official fan club. Six lucky winners will go to the video shoot in New York City on Wednesday, January 22. Join ClubAnastacia today to enter. All-Access Members are automatically entered in the 'Love is a Crime Video Visit' contest. If you'll be in the area, enter promo code CHICAGO when you join.

//Justin & Christina Hit The Road!

Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera will tour the US together this year, according to reports.

The trek will be something of a reunion for the pair, who both worked on the Mickey Mouse Club TV show alongside Britney Spears in the early 1990's.

"I'm so excited!", Aguilera told MTV this week. "Me and Justin are going to go out, and it's going to be such an amazing thing.

"There's talk of us writing a song together and whatnot," she added. "He's so great. We're going to make it the tour of the year."

Though an official statement on the tour is yet to be made, Timberlake's record label have confirmed that the singers are in negotiations.

As previously reported, Timberlake - currently on a promotional tour of Europe - will play dates in Sheffield, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham and London this spring.

It's not yet known whether Aguilera will be involved in the UK tour.

Meanwhile, both Timberlake and Aguilera are gearing up to the UK release of their new singles, 'Cry Me A River' and 'Beautiful' respectively.

8 January 03

//Check back later today for the new Wild Writings Media Charts & Contest Winners!

//Kylie Minogue To Quit UK For USA

The Sun reports Kylie Minogue is planning on spending this year in the U.S., ending her 13 years as an honorary Brit. "This year is about cementing her place in the US music scene and this will require long stays in New York and LA," a pal revealed. "She is ready to live there." A source added, "Kylie feels she needs a long break from London life. She has this weird bond with [on/off boyfriend James Gooding] she knows isn't healthy. Being away from him is the only solution."

//Lowered Expectations For 'American Idol 2'

SMG Entertainment analyst Laura Caraccioli tells USA Today the second season of 'American Idol' will draw strong ratings but isn't likely to match the numbers from the less competitive summer run. "I think this will still shine. The magic hasn't been tarnished yet," she said. "There's going to be so many of these we might just kill (the talent search) the way we did with the game show (genre)." For the network's part, Fox entertainment chief Gail Berman says, "I believe the show will do nicely, but we have no expectation that it will exceed what it did last summer."

//Backstreet Boy Has No Issues With Gay Fans

Gay New York guide Next magazine caught up with Backstreet Boys star Kevin Richardson, where he addressed the band's popularity in the gay community. "I've always been totally aware of our gay fans," he explains. "They're in every audience all the time. I'm totally comfortable with it. We meet all kinds of fans all the time-in our hotels, coming in and out from shows, shaking hands and taking pictures..." Kevin added, "I've been performing for a long time and I have lots of gay friends. It's never been an issue."

//P. Diddy Is Banned By New York Limo Company

Limo driver to the stars Paul Monroe did a tell-all with the National Enquirer and revealed: "There was a sign in the limo office that said: 'DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES AUTHORIZE VEHICLES TO PICK UP PUFF DADDY OR ANY BAD BOY ENTERTAINMENT AFFILIATE.'" Paul explained of Sean 'P. Diddy' Combs, "Puff Daddy was in two of our cars and the company would never take another job from him. The limos were ruined. Chapagne was spilled all over the place, the carpets had to be cleaned and they never paid their bill. Puffy's company was notorious for not paying their bill."

He continued, "One time Puff Daddy called in himself and said he needed to go from New York to Boston right away. Our company owner refused. He basically said, 'Not a chance. I don't give a g**d*mn if you hitchhike there, you're not taking one of my cars.'"

//Ozzy Osbourne Can't Explain His Longevity

Dave DiMartino of Launch.com caught up with Ozzy Osbourne and asked the veteran rocker how he managed to have lasted this long in the business. "I don't know," Ozzy admitted. "Somebody said to me this morning, when I just did an interview on the phone, 'What do you attribute your longevity to?' I don't know. I mean, I couldn't have planned my life out better. By all accounts, I should be dead! The abuse I put my body through... the drugs, the alcohol, the lifestyle I've lived the last 30 years. Now some rare fly will fly over me, crap on my shoulder, and I'll drop dead, you know? But my life story is a real life story." Read more.

17 January 03

//Check back later for contest winners!

//Help us stay online! Donate!

//Joey Fatone To Appear In 'Big Fat Greek' Sitcom

Joey Fatone of *NSYNC tells MTV News that he has agreed to appear in a sitcom based on 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding'. "I actually talked to Nia Vardalos, who wrote it and produced it, and she told me she might be doing a TV show," Fatone explained at Monday's American Music Awards. "I was like, 'Let me know. I'm in.' We're taking a break right now with 'NSYNC and going to start writing in September, so I would love to do a couple of episodes." The show, titled 'My Big Fat Greek Life,' will debut on CBS on February 24, before moving to its regular time period of 7 p.m. on Sundays.

//50 Cent Laughs About Ja Rule's Claims

Hip Hop & Soul Online spoke with 50 Cent about his ongoing beef with Ja Rule. "I think he's a clown, all he's missin is a red nose, a wig, and the shoes," 50 laughed. "Seven days before his album drops he goes to radio says I have an order of protection on him... c'mon, he weighs 110 pounds wet, and with his pockets full of change."

//Ja Rule Changes His Mind About Rap Retirement

Ja Rule tells The Source magazine that he's changed his mind about retiring after releasing his latest album 'Last Temptation'. Ja's explaination? "I don't think I wanna retire no more. Quincy Jones said something that made me think. He said- Tupac died at 25. If I had died at 25, I would have been a musician who didn't get a chance to blossom." He added, "If Malcolm X died at 25, he would have been a street hustler named Detroit Red. If MLK died at 25, he would have just been a preacher who never got to the Martin Lurther King Jr. that we know... That made me think I could die tomorrow, and that right there will stop my legacy and my life; People would never get a chance to know what I could have grown to be."

//Man Jailed For Wrecking Missy Elliott's Car

Associated Press reports a man who wrecked a $300,000 sports car owned by Missy Elliott was sentenced to three years in jail for the late-night spin. "This is not a typical unauthorized-use case by any means, your honour," assistant commonwealth's attorney Mike Huberman told the judge before Joseph Thomas Johnson was sentenced Wednesday. "He takes a vehicle that is worth more than most houses and totals it."

25 January 2003

//Vote for your favorite song in the media section. New songs this week come from Mariah [Boy] and Shakira [The One] Vote now!

//Mariah Carey Sends Bras To Sharon Osbourne

People magazine reports after Sharon Osbourne told the nation that Mariah Carey had "the best boob job in the business" at the American Music Awards, gossip columnist Liz Smith reported that Carey was upset. But three days after the awards, Carey sent Osbourne a beautiful arrangement of roses and three bras (red, black and beige) from Victoria's Secret with a note that read, "Dear Sharon, THESE are the best boob jobs in Hollywood. Love, Mariah."

//Jay-Z Again Says Next Album Will Be His Last

Jay-Z is continuing the talk that his next album will be his last to New Music Express. "My plan is to make the next album, 'The Black Album', my last," Jigga revealed. "There comes a time when you've got to go and challenge yourself with other areas, you know what I'm saying? Take myself out of the comfort zone. Take the safety blanket off." He added, "I'll make The 'Black Album' and release a book with it at the same time. It'll be autobiographical. I'll be working on writing it. Writing's tough, though. I've done basically everything, and it's time to take on new and different channels. I feel that I'm at that point in my career."

//Ja Rule Wants His Own '8 Mile'

The Chicago Sun-Times reports Ja Rule wants to be the next rapper to make a '8 Mile' style movie inspired by his life. Ja has developed a script titled 'Back in the Day' and reportedly is talking to both Joy Bryant and Vanessa Williams about co-starring.

//Christina admits to have flipped-out

Christina Aguilera raged at friends who betrayed her and then hid under a car. Christina admits to a period of crisis last year when she didn't know who to trust, culminating with an angry fall-out with two of her closest friends. She says, "I just ran out of the house and kept running down the street, kind of shivering".. According to Britain's Daily Sport newspaper, Christina then hid under a car for some time before regaining her composure. She adds, "I didn't want anybody to find me or see me". Her problems were fuelled by a series of personal disasters for the singer; a row over money with one friend, and another who threatened to write a tell-all book about the star. She says, "I closed myself up in a bubble and didn't even breathe in anyone's direction. I didn't know what to do, who to trust. That was the biggest thing, major trust issues".. Nevertheless, Christina says her troubles also stem from a troubled childhood when she claims her father Fausto Aguilera abused both her and her mother.

//Sketchers mad at Britney

Skechers USA, is reportedly fuming mad at Britney Spears, who filed a $1.5 million lawsuit against the company last Christmas. So Skechers is volleying back a multimillion-dollar countersuit within the next two months. The mess all started when Britney accused Skechers of failing to properly promote her line of roller skates and other products. The footwear company says it was actually Britney who skated out on the three-year deal, leaving Skechers' wheels spinning. "We did not get any value out of the money we gave her," Skechers attorney Daniel Petrocelli said. Petrocelli insisted Britney has been in violation of her contract for well over a year. Although she was offered multiple designs and manufacturers for her line of clothing and skating accessories, she failed to approve them in time for Skechers to market the products to consumers in time for key selling seasons. As a result, the company lost tens of millions of dollars, Petrocelli said. He added that for months Skechers told Britney she was in breach of contract and in November they informed her that they were planning to file a breach-of-contract suit. At that point, they say, she put together her own lawsuit and filed it at Christmas when no one at Skechers could be reached for comment. "She attempted to jump the gun," Petrocelli said. "Her lawsuit is a legal maneuver to try to deflect her liability".. In the suit, Britney claimed it was Skechers that didn't honor the agreement to use outside businesses to create accessories for her line. She also asserted that the company used her image to promote and boost sales of other skate lines. "Skechers' claims are ludicrous and without merit," Britney Brands attorney Jonathan Solish said in a statement. "This is a baseless attempt to shift the spotlight from Skechers' abandonment of their contractual obligations. We are confident that the courts will reach the same conclusion".

29 January 2003

//E-mail us and tell us who you want to be the February Artist of the Month! This month is Missy Elliot, check out her new video on the media page!

//Coming soon is an interview with actress/singer Nicole Heriot! Check out her official site here.

//Vote for your favorite songs/videos on the Wild Writings Official Charts!

//Kylie's Underwear For Sale!

Kylie Minogue's exclusive lingerie range is to reach UK stores next week.

The Love Kylie collection - which features satin, lace and fishnet designs - has been available in Australia since 2001 but will reach Selfridges stores in London and Manchester next week.

Items in the range have names such as 'Diva', 'Vamp' and 'Fever' are priced between £10 to £50.

Kylie, who was recently voted to have the most beautiful celebrity body in the world, says the range is "fashionable and flirtatious".

//Unlike Britney Spears, Avril Keeps Fashion Simple

Us Weekly spoke with Avril Lavigne, who tells them when it comes to fashion, she's low maintenance. "I wear the same clothes all the time. Do you ever notice that?" Lavigne said. "I have in my suitcase my pile of pants, t-shirts, pajamas and shoes. I'm not like Britney, where you'll see her in a brand-new outfit every time she goes out."

//Ja Rule Says He Was Set Up In Philly

Ja Rule spoke with Launch.com and tried to explain why he and Ashanti were booed off the field in Philadelphia during their halftime performance at the NFC Championship game at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia on January 19th. "I mean, I laughed about it, you know?" Ja Rule said of the incident. "Plus, you know, my buddies over at Fox, they kinda set us up with the old, you know, 'fazool'--putting us in Tampa's come-out spot and, you know, then my DJ had the red-and-black jacket, so it's little things the crowd spotted and ain't like...It's like that, but Philly is just known for that."

//Justin Timberlake Hooks Up With Britney Lookalike

The Mirror reports *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake used his party in London the other night to hook up with another Britney Spears lookalike named Karen. "They were extremely touchy-feely in the VIP room," a spy said, "but careful not to get snapped together, so they left separately."

28 January 2003

//E-mail us at contact@wildwritings.com and tell us what celebrity you would like as artist of the month for February!

//Coming soon is a new contest, interview, and a re-vamped store!

//Robbie to hit the big screen

Robbie Williams is reportedly about to make his Hollywood debut playing a DJ in a film called "Mr DJ Man". The reports state that the film will also star British comedian and soap star, Mike Reid, best known as Frank Butcher in the British soap, Eastenders. It's further claimed that Robbie has already enrolled for acting lessons at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute in New York, where the likes of Jack Nicholson, James Dean and Marilyn Monroe learned their trade.

//Avril Wins At MTV Europe Awards

Avril Lavigne walked away with three gongs at the MTV Asia awards this weekend. The Canadian star, nominated for five Grammy awards this year, was named Favourite International Female Artist and Breakthrough Artist and was honoured with the Style Award at the second annual MTV Asia show.

Eighteen-year-old Lavigne also performed at the Singapore event, alongside Missy Elliott, Robbie Williams, Atomic Kitten, Linkin Park and Blue, who performed a cover of Bob Marley's 'One Love'.

//Norah Takes Over

At this point, Blue Note's little album that could can only be called the Norah Jones phenomenon, as perhaps the mellowest record ever to hold at the top of the album chart for three weeks appears headed for a fourth. That's right: Jones' Come Away with Me looks likely to enjoy yet another week on top, according to early blind guesses, er, scientific extrapolation of available data. Prognosticators expect that Jones will come in at around 110k for the week, which in the current down market (even for January) will make it an easy #1.

//Mariah Carey 'Thrilled' By NASCAR Gig

The Canton Repository spoke with Mariah Carey about her thoughts on singing the national anthem at the Daytona 500. "I'm just so excited. I'm totally thrilled about it," Mariah enthused. "I'm looking forward to this. My father actually used to race cars, and when I heard about this, I felt like it was perfect timing because my father passed away this past year and we had gotten into a long conversation about the fact he used to race cars. It seems like it's the right moment. I'm just honored to be a part of it."

//Timberlake's Language Offends Planet Hollywood Patrons

The Sun reports *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake used foul language in front of children during his visit to Planet Hollywood, where he turned down kids' requests for autographs, claiming, "I'm just here for a fu**ing burger." One diner fumed, "Timberlake's language was outrageous. I was with a number of kids and I had to tell them to just ignore him. But they were excited by him being there. I didn't think it was the way for a famous pop star to behave with so many impressionable young people around. I won't be letting my kids buy his album."