Michael Jackson to be Honored at Grauman’s Chinese Theater

Before Cirque du Soleil brings Michael Jackson’s music to Los Angeles in their “IMMORTAL World Tour,” the King of Pop will be immortalized in a hand and footprints ceremony at the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on Jan. 26.

During the event, the superstar’s three children, Prince, Paris and Blanket, will make impressions in the cement at Grauman’s using their late father’s sequined glove and shoes, Jackson’s official Estate announced on Thursday. Jackson’s legacy will sit alongside Hollywood icons like Fred Astaire, Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor (who was a close friend to Jackson) at the location.

A day after the ceremony, Cirque du Soleil will kick off a three-night residency at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. “Michael Jackson: The IMMORTAL World Tour” kicked off last October in Montreal, and an accompanying remix album, “Immortal,” was released on Nov. 21.

Contents of Michael Jackson’s Last Home Auctions for $1 Million

The contents of Michael Jackson’s final home went under the auction hammer this weekend, reaping three times pre-sale estimates for a total of close to $1 million.

Collectors bid on some 500 items from the home Jackson rented in Los Angeles while preparing for comeback concerts in London.

Among the highlights was a Victorian Revival-style bedroom suite that sold for $25,075. The set includes an armoire on whose ornate mirror the “Thriller” singer wrote a message in felt pen: “Train, perfection March April Full out May” — presumably a reference to rehearsals for London’s “This Is It” concerts set to start that July.

A pottery rooster holding a chalkboard with a note from Jackson’s children — Prince, Paris and Blanket — sold for $5,000.

“Anything associated with Michael Jackson is highly collectible,” auctioneer Darren Julien said in the lead-up to the auction.

The ornate headboard on the bed where Jackson’s body was found on June 25, 2009, was removed from the sale last month at the request of Jackson’s family.

Dr. Conrad Murray Gets Maximum Sentence for Michael Jackson Death

Dr. Conrad Murray, the doctor who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the overdose death of Michael Jackson, was sentenced to the maximum four years in prison on Tuesday, putting the tragic saga of The King of Pop to rest.

As Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor chastised Dr. Conrad Murray for his “horrific violation of trust” while caring for Jackson, Murray sat stoically, unflinching.

Judge Pastor said one of the most disturbing aspects of Murray’s case was a slurred recording of Jackson that was recovered from the doctor’s cell phone.

“That tape recording was Dr. Murray’s insurance policy,” Pastor said. “It was designed to record his patient surreptitiously at that patient’s most vulnerable point.”

Michael Jackson’s family said in a statement, “We are not here to seek revenge. There is nothing you can do today that will bring Michael back.” The family expressed to Pastor that they only wanted the doctor who was responsible for Michael’s death to receive a stiff sentence that serves as a warning to opportunistic doctors.

Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter following a six-week trial that presented the most detailed account yet of Jackson’s final hours and stirred questions about Murray’s treatment of the superstar with an operating-room anesthetic as he battled chronic insomnia.

Clifford McGhee iMusicDaily Exclusive!

We recently caught up with multi-talented entertainment industry favorite Clifford McGhee to catch up on the latest projects he’s immersed himself into!

As an active performer who is constantly in demand, Clifford is a gifted recording artist, talented dancer and choreographer, and skilled actor.

Having worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Beyonce, Clive Davis, and Roy Hamilton. Clifford is steadily applying his talent to multiple projects and new opportunities!

[video] Michael Jackson and Akon ‘Hold My Hand’ Video Premiere

The music video for Michael Jackson’s ‘Hold My Hand’ featuring Akon has officially been released. The video utilizes several iconic images of Michael Jackson. Check it out –

Many skeptics think that it’s not Michael Jackson singing the song. What do you think?

[audio] New Michael Jackson feat. Akon ‘Hold My Hand’

It was only last week that a new Michael Jackson song called ‘Breaking News’ was released with the announcement of Jackson’s upcoming album, Michael. Now, the first official single ‘Hold My Hand’ has been released. The song features singer/songwriter/producer Akon.

Thoughts?

Michael Jackson and Akon’s Song to be released

Many thought there would never be a new cd from Michael Jackson, but there will be, and soon!

Lenny Kravitz, Akon and 50 Cent will be featured on the upcoming posthumous album from Michael Jackson.

Epic Records and Jackson’s estate released more details about the record simply called “MICHAEL” on Friday. The song “Hold My Hand” with Akon will be the first single and debut on Jackson’s website on Monday.

Akon says the song was leaked two years ago before Jackson’s death but it wasn’t complete. Akon says now it’s finished and he’s proud to have worked with one of his idols.

“MICHAEL” will feature 10 songs and is due out Dec. 14. Some were recent recordings.

The song “Breaking News” debuted on Jackson’s site this week. Some of his nephews say it’s not Jackson’s voice but a former producer and manager insist that it is.

Michael Jackson’s Nephew Debuts New Single

Austin Brown, the son of Michael and Janet Jackson’s oldest sister Rebbie, has released his debut single “Target Practice.” It’s crazy how much Austin sounds like Michael! The track was produced by Rodney ‘Darkchild’ Jerkins, who also worked on MJ’s “You Rock My World”.

Check out Austin Brown’s “Target Practice” –

So what do you think? Does Austin have a chance?

VH1 Reveals ’100 Greatest Music Artists of All Time’ List

VH1 goes back to its music roots and revisits the age-old question: “Who is the greatest music artist for all time?” Determined by a poll of well-known music artists and music experts in the industry, VH1 will reveal this definitive (and sure-to-be highly controversial) list declaring who is the greatest of the great. Hosted by Jim Shearer (VH1′s “Top 20 Video Countdown”), the 4-night special, VH1′s “100 Greatest Artists of All Time,” premieres Monday, September 6 at 10/9c with a 2-hour premiere.

This definitive countdown covers all genres of music – from rock to pop to rap to metal – to answer who is worthy to possess the title as “the greatest music artist of all time.” Over the 200 musicians including Alicia Keys, Ozzy Osbourne, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Iggy Pop, Nas, Rob Halford (Judas Priest), Geddy Lee (Rush), Alex Lifeson (Rush), Michael Diamond (Beastie Boys), Daryl Hall, John Oates, Noel Gallagher (Oasis), Gene Simmons (KISS), Adam Levine (Maroon Five), 50 Cent, Nelly Furtado, Mandy Moore, Carrie Underwood, Adam Clayton (U2) and many more voted on who they believe deserves this highly coveted title.

“VH1′s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time” List:
TOP 5, IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER
1. The Beatles
2. Bob Dylan
3. Michael Jackson
4. Led Zeppelin
5. Rolling Stones

Other notable names on the list include Madonna at number 16, U2 at 19, Jay Z at 47, Beyoncé at 52, and Justin Timberlake at 66. Read more

RedOne Signs Label Deal With Universal Music

Universal Music is honored to announce their joint venture with super producer RedOne and his new record label 2101 Records. The international Grammy winning hitmaker, who was recently honored as Billboard Producer of the Year and BMI Songwriter of the Year, is famed for his work with Michael Jackson, Sean Kingston, Enrique Iglesias, Akon and Lady Gaga. The venture is with Universal Music International and each artist signing to 2101/Universal will be released by a label within the UMG Group. RedOne will A&R, executive produce and produce all artists signed to 2101 Records.

“I am so privileged to be in business with the Universal Family in this new venture. We already have had so much success together; I know that this is the best home for my music and for my artists. Lucian (Grainge) and I share a common vision for creating sounds and platforms for new artists, not only writing hit songs, but building brands. We are incredibly fortunate to be launching with an artist like Mohombi, who has so much potential. He is a powerhouse talent … writing, singing, performing, and dancing … a true entertainer. Mohombi lifts my spirits and I believe he will elevate the world with his music. DANCE ON ” – RedOne

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