music news
Founding member of The Doors Dead at 74
Top left: Ray Manzarek, Jim Morrison, John Densmore and Robby Krieger.
Photo: Electra Records
Ray Manzarek, co-founder of the rock group The Doors died Monday due to complications from cancer.
Publicist Heidi Robinson Fitzgerald announced Monday that Manzarek died of bile duct cancer in Rosenheim, Germany at the age of 74. He was surrounded by his family.
Manzarek was one of the founding members of The Doors and was the key ingredient to Jim Morrison’s moody vocals which helped propelled the venerable rock group to sell over 100 million records, even though the band was only together for a few years.
The Doors’ original lineup included Jim Morris (vocals), Ray Manzarek (keyboards), John Densmore (drummer) and Robbie Krieger (guitarist).
The Doors only produced six albums, but after Morrison’s untimely death, fans became obsessed with the band and even to this day maintain a cult following.
Their hits included “The Crystal Ship,” “Roadhouse Blues,” “Riders On the Storm” and “Light My Fire.”
In a statement Densmore said, “There was no keyboard player on the planet more appropriate to support Jim Morrison’s words,” continuing he wrote, “Ray, I felt totally in sync with you musically. It was like we were of one mind, holding down the foundation for Robby and Jim to float on top of. I will miss my musical brother.”
In 1991 Oliver Stone directed “The Doors” starring Val Kilmer as Morrison and Kyle MacLachlan as Manzerek. Manzerek took exception to the films portrayal of Morrison as a drunk.
In later years Krieger and Manzarek formed a group called Doors of the 21st Century. Densmore objected forcing Krieger and Manzarek to perform under different names.
Manzarek played with X and Iggy Pop and others throughout the years. He also penned a memoir entitled, “Light My Fire,” as well as a novel, “The Poet In Exile.”
Manzerek was performing in the band Rick and the Ravens when he met Morrison in 1965 in Venice Beach, Calif. ultimately forming The Doors. Morrison told Manzarek that he had been writing songs, “I was taking notes at a fantastic rock’n'roll concert going on in my head,” which led to the song “Moonlight Drive.”
Manzarek is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his son Pablo and two brothers, Rick and James. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Slayer guitarist’s cause of death released
Jeff Hanneman
Photo: ESP Guitars
Last week, guitarist and co-founding member of the group Slayer, died from liver failure at the age of 49. At the time it was believed to have been from necrotizing fasciitis, with many people speculating that he died from a spider bite, specifically the renowned brown recluse.
On Thursday the band announced on their website that Hanneman died from alcohol related cirrhosis and his death was not related to necrotizing fasciitis as first believed.
“We’ve just learned that the official cause of Jeff’s death was alcohol related cirrhosis,” the band posted on their site, “While he had his health struggles over the years, including the recent Necrotizing fasciitis infection that devastated his well-being, Jeff and those close to him were not aware of the true extent of his liver condition until the last days of his life,” continuing they explained, “Contrary to some reports, Jeff was not on a transplant list at the time of his passing, or at any time prior to that. In fact, by all accounts, it appeared that he had been improving – he was excited and looking forward to working on a new record.”
Slayer
Photo: Slayer/Amazon
Read: Slayer guitarist dead at 49
Hanneman and fellow guitarist Kerry King founded the band in the ‘80s at a time when ‘thrash metal’ bands were just getting started. During that time, they became known as the ‘Big Four’ in the genre, joining Anthrax, Megadeth and Metallica.
In 2011 Hanneman contracted necrotizing fasciitis, which is a debilitating skin disorder and had to drop from touring with the band.
In 2012 it was announced that he had recovered from the disease, but King came out in February of this year and said Hanneman was still having health issues.
Slayer guitarist dead at 49
Jeff Hanneman
Photo: ESP Guitars
The thrash metal band Slayer posted on their website today that founding member, guitarist and songwriter Jeff Hanneman has died.
According to the band, Hanneman “passed away at about 11AM this morning near his Southern California home. Hanneman was in an area hospital when he suffered liver failure.” He was 49.
Hanneman and fellow guitarist Kerry King founded the band in the ‘80s at a time when ‘thrash metal’ bands were just getting started. During that time, they became known as the ‘Big Four’ in the genre, joining Anthrax, Megadeth and Metallica.
It all began back in 1981 when Hanneman and King were trying out for a band. Afterwards they started playing Iron Maiden and Judas Priest songs together.
In an interview with KNAC radio Hanneman said he asked King, “Why don’t we start our own band?” King responded “…F##k yeah!”
Hanneman also had his own signature guitars with ESP Guitars.
In 2011 Hanneman contracted necrotizing fasciitis, which is a debilitating skin disorder and had to drop from touring with the band.
Slayer
Photo: Slayer/Amazon
In 2012 it was announced that he had recovered from the disease, but King came out in February of this year and said Hanneman was still having health issues.
It is unknown if the necrotizing fasciitis had anything to do with his liver failure.
According to Billboard his wife Kathy, his two brothers and sister were at his bedside when he died.
Some of the tributes being posted on Twitter:
Guitarist Slash tweeted, “Tragic & shocking news about Jeff Hanneman. He is going to missed by so many. What a sad day for Metal. RIP man.”
Megadeth guitarist Dave Mustaine wrote, “Tonight one less star will be shining and sadly, the stage got just a little bit darker. Jeff Hanneman 1964-2013.”
Slayer’s complete statement:
“Slayer is devastated to inform that their bandmate and brother, Jeff Hanneman, passed away at about 11AM this morning near his Southern California home. Hanneman was in an area hospital when he suffered liver failure. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Kathy and his brothers Michael and Larry, and will be sorely missed.
“Our Brother Jeff Hanneman, May He Rest In Peace (1964 – 2013)”
Chris Kelly of “Kris Kross” dead at 34
Chris Smith(L) and Chris Kelly
Photo: Amazon
CNN is reporting that rapper Chris Kelly, one half of the duo “Kris Kross” has died.
Kelly’s mother called for help yesterday from Kelly’s Atlanta home. Paramedics found Kelly unresponsive at the scene and transported him to a local hospital where he was declared dead.
According to a Fulton County Police report, cocaine and heroin may have played a part in Kelly’s death. Donna Kelly Pratt, Chris’ mother, told police that her son had taken what is known as speedballs the night before – a mixture of cocaine and heroin.
The police report went on to say that Kelly had felt nauseous all morning and then passed out. Both Kelly’s mother and uncle told police that Kelly had a drug problem.
According to the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office they are scheduled to perform an autopsy today.
“Kris Kross,” was a duo back in the ‘90s consisting of Chris ‘Mac Daddy’ Kelly and Chris ‘Daddy Mac’ Brown. In 1992 their hit single “Jump” shot to No. 1 and stayed there for eight straight weeks, according to Billboard Hot 100.
Numerous fans headed to Twitter to offer their condolences.
Vanilla Ice @vanillaice, “Today a hip-hop soldier has fallen, I will pay respect by wearing my clothes backwards. #kriskross”
Alyssa Milano @Alyssa_Milano, “Rest in peace. Chris Kelly Dead: Kris Kross Rapper Dies At Age 34”
LL Cool J @llcoolj, “R.I.P Chris Kelly. This song is now officially dedicated to you. May GOD embrace your soul & lift up your family. http://t.co/E7wHmBpqZK”
Eddie Money drummer hospitalized
Glenn Symmonds
Photo: Randy Miramontez
Longtime drummer for Eddie Money and solo artist Glenn Symmonds was hospitalized Monday morning for the removal of a tumor.
Symmonds’ personal assistant and love interest, Tami Landrum, posted to his Facebook page early Monday morning, “We are on the way to the hospital this morning to have a tumor removed & biopsies done.”
According to Tami’s post, Symmonds was diagnosed with bladder cancer last week and remains optimistic, since CAT scans indicate his kidneys are in good shape.
Read: Eddie Money concert review
After high school, Symmonds headed to California from Spokane where he met Eddie Money. It all happened in Oakland when Money’s drummer didn’t show up for rehearsal. Money had heard Symmonds playing drums next door, so he asked him if he could fill in. Symmonds has been performing with Money off and on for over 39 years and tours regularly with Money and his band.
Symmonds was scheduled to appear this Friday with Eddie Money at the Thibodaux Fireman’s Fair in Thibodaus Louisiana.
Symmonds has performed with a host of other greats including The Cult, Etta James George Benson and many more. When Symmonds isn’t touring with Money he’s touring on his own.
As a singer songwriter and accomplished guitarist, Symmonds has recorded two solo albums ‘Southern Poets, Trains and Troubadours, and his latest album ‘Early California.”
The single “Railroad Man,” off of his first album is a tribute to his father, Robert “Guitar Whitey” Symmonds, an old-time, train-hopping hobo. Symmonds told his hometown newspaper the Spokesman Review, that his father rode the rails before settling down to start a family. When his children grew up and went their separate ways, Guitar Whitey walked to the intersection of Trent and Fancher and hopped the first train out of town.
Tami Landrum and Glenn Symmonds
According to Symmonds he’s out on the road at least 160 days out of the year as he continues to tour with Money and also as a solo act.
Here’s Tami’s post in full:
“For those of you who don’t know me I am Glenn’s personal assistant, faithful sidekick, and basically the love of his life 
Unfortunately, I am not hacking his Fbook with the best of news. Glenn was diagnosed with bladder cancer last week. We are on the way to the hospital this morning to have a tumor removed & biopsies done. On the bright side, a CAT scan showed his kidneys were good! I’ll be posting some updates during his recovery. Prayers are welcomed!”
Tami uploaded this photo prior to Glenn’s surgery with the caption ” ’bout ready to kick some cancer ass!”
UPDATE: Monday afternoon Symmonds was release from the hospital with doctors remaining optimistic. The tumor was removed and he was given a round of chemo directly to the affected area.
According to Tami she’s, “reading him all your comments & posts… all the love, prayers & support have really touched him. Thank you all – much appreciated from me. ~tam”
Country legend George Jones dead at 81
George Jones (1931 – 2013)
According to George Jones’ publicist, Kirt Webster, the legendary country music star died today (Friday) at the age of 81.
Jones was forced to postpone two shows after he was hospitalized with a fever and irregular blood pressure, this according to Webster. He died at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.
Friends and fans took to Twitter to offer their condolences.
Blake Shelton tweeted, “Really REALLY bad news. We’ve lost a country music legend. And I’ve lost a hero and a friend. Goodbye George Jones…”
The Oakridge Boys tweeted, “It’s sad day. George Jones will not be forgotten & we will never stop loving him. Prayers with the family. @gjpossum http://opry.com/georgejones”
Keith Urban tweeted, “If I’m blessed enough to make it there, I look forward to you giving me the grand tour. Rest in peace George Jones!!!!! -KU”
1992 Country Music Hall of Famer led a wild and turbulent life which led to him not showing up to many of his concerts, earning him the nickname ‘No Show Jones.’
His hits included “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes,” “The Race is On,” “White Lightning” and “Still Doing Time.” He recorded a number of songs with his then wife Tammy Wynette and paired up with country legends Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard.
Jones was married four times with his first three marriages ending in divorce. He had a Daughter with his first wife Dorothy Bonvillion in 1950, two sons with his second wife Shirley Ann Corley who he married in 1954, one daughter with his third wife Tammy Wynette who he married in 1969.
In 1983, Jones married Nancy Ford Sepulvado. Jones insisted that his marriage to Nancy brought about his rehabilitation from drugs and alcohol, prolonging his life.
Jones is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Nancy Jones, his sister Helen Scroggins, and by his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Huey Lewis has car stolen
Huey Lewis performs at Thunder Valley
Photo: Randy Miramontez
The Marin Independent Journal is reporting that 31-year-old Katherine Bowyer Gallagher was arrested for stealing a car that was rented by the frontman for Huey Lewis and the News.
Huey Lewis, a long time Marin County resident, was visiting from his current home in Montana. As he was leaving a Holiday Inn Express, the 62-year-old singer rushed back in to get the receipt, leaving the engine running on the rented Toyota Corolla. When he came back out, the car had vanished.
Gallagher, a known local transient, was seen by the vehicle prior to it being stolen. She made off with the car and the singers laptop.
A California Highway Patrol officer saw Gallagher behind the wheel of the stolen vehicle, pulling her over, and ultimately arresting her.
Gallagher took a plea deal, admitting to possession of stolen property in exchange for lesser jail time. The District Attorney’s office dropped the vehicle theft charge.
Stephen Cobert takes on ‘Accidental Racist’
Photo: Comedy Central
Stephen Colbert lambasted Brad Paisley’s “Accidental Racist” implying the song was poorly written and just plain sucked.
Paisley sparked controversy with the initial release of “Accidental Racist” with special guest LL Cool J. The song is about cultural symbols as viewed by whites and blacks.
Brad Paisley sparks controversy with ‘Accidental Racist’
On Wednesday’s airing of ‘The Colbert Report’, Cobert, after discussing the merits of Paisley’s song, said, “This level of unifying suckage has inspired me to write my own awful song.”
Brad Paisley
Photo: Randy Miramontez
Cobert focuses on the “Accidental Racist” lyrics, ‘To the man that waited on me at the Starbucks down on Main, I hope you understand when I put on that t-shirt, the only thing I meant to say is I’m a Skynyrd fan.” The t-shirt in question had a confederate flag on the front.
Colbert took center stage, donning a cowboy hat, announcing his new song “Oopsie-Daisy Homophobe,” explaining, “In the hopes of bridging another deep cultural rift in America, the gay marriage divide.”
Colbert begins singing, “To the man stretching next to me, at the Crunch gym down on main, I hope you understand, when I told you god hates fags, the only thing I meat to say is I’m a Skynryd fan.” Taking a jab at Paisley’s reason for wearing the confederate flag.
Later Cobert was joined by Alan Cumming rapping in place of LL Cook J.
It’s a must watch!
The Colbert Report
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Psy unleashes new song ‘Gentleman’
Original release date was to be April 12
Despite all the saber-rattling from North Korea, South Korean pop star Psy managed to release his follow-up to, the largely overrated, “Gangnam Style” on Thursday. “Gentleman” is styled after “Gangnam Style,” with a techno beat that one would expect, plus a combination of Korean and English lyrics.
Upon its initial release on Thursday, “Gentleman” was accessible in Australia and New Zealand, but quickly found its way to YouTube. However, shortly after the song hit YouTube, listeners were greeted with a message from Universal stating that the stream had been blocked.
The decision was then made to move the release date to today for everyone, rather than stick to the initial release date which was scheduled for Friday.
Psy’s “Gangnam Style” took the world by storm as it smashed through YouTube’s record number of views, amassing over 1.5 billion views. Yes, billions.
The 35-year-old recently wrapped up filming of the music video for “Gentleman” earlier in the week. Filming took place in and around Seoul Korea.
Psy said the song will have a fast tempo and be accompanied by a new dance routine. He will be performing in Western Seoul on Saturday at the World Cup Stadium in celebration of the new song.
Will it make it to the 1.5 billion views on YouTube?
New acts added to TVCR’s 2013 Summer Concert Series
In a press release today Thunder Valley Casino Resort announced several new acts for their upcoming Summer Concert Series for 2013 and it appears this is going to be a great series.
Thunder Valley will welcome back several popular artists like Huey Lewis and the News, Peter Frampton and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
This Summer Concert Series will include the ‘Under the Sun’ tour featuring Smash Mouth, Sugar Ray, Gin Blossoms, Vertical Horizon & Fastball. Look for tickets for this show to sell out early.
This year joining the legendary Peter Frampton in his ‘Guitar Circus’ tour will be the equally legendary B.B. King. Another show you won’t want to miss.
“We are thrilled to add these big name entertainers to our fourth annual Summer Concert Series lineup,” said Dawn Clayton, Acting General Manager of Thunder Valley Casino Resort. “Our outdoor amphitheater is second to none in the region and as always, we will have a very well-rounded series of big name entertainers.”
Check back here for the latest updates!
| Frankie Vallie and The Four Season | Saturday, June 1 | |
| Pat Benatar w/Neil Geraldo and Cheap Trick | Friday, June 7 | |
| Super Summer Soul Jam click for full line up | Saturday, June 8 | |
| Doobie Brothers | Friday, June 14 | |
| Jeff Dunham | Friday, June 21 | |
| Lynyrd Skynrd | Saturday, June 22 | |
| Under the Sun w/Smash Mouth, Sugar Ray and more | Friday, July 12 | |
| Huey Lewis & the News | Saturday, July 13 | |
| Larry Hernandez | Saturday, July 20 | |
| Chicago | Saturday, Aug 3 | |
| Gladys Knight and The O’Jays | Friday, Aug 9 | |
| Bill Engvall | Saturday, Aug 10 | |
| Chris Isaak | Friday, Aug 16 | |
| Frampton’s Guitar Circus w/ B.B. King | Friday, Aug 30 | |
| Beach Boys | Friday, Sept 6 | |
| Heart | Saturday, Sept 22 | |
| Bad Company | Friday, Sept 27 |
Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 15 for Thunder Club Members at the casino. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Saturday, March 16 and can be purchased online at http://thundervalleyresort.com/entertainment or at the Thunder Valley Ticket Sales Office between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
