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Country singer dies aged 79

Country singer Kinky Friedman has passed away aged 79. A post shared on his social media account confirmed the news that he was surrounded by family and friends before his death. “Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family and friends,” the post read. “Kinkster endured tremendous pain and unthinkable loss in recent years but he never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit. Kinky will live on as his books are read and his songs are sung.” The musician, whose real name is Richard Samet Friedman, developed a cult following for his unique and quirky approach to country and Western music. His first album Sold American was released in 1973, and he also toured with Bob Dylan on his Rolling Thunder Revue. Outside of his music career, Friedman was also a writer, penning detective novels and a working as a columnist for Texas Monthly. He published his first book Elvis, Jesus and Coca-Cola: A Novel in 1994 and ten years later published his second one, Kinky Friedman’s Guide to Texas Etiquette: Or How to Get to Heaven or Hell Without Going Through Dallas-Fort Worth. In 2006 he dabbled in politics, running for the Governor of Texas and received 12.6 per cent of the votes among six candidates. He also helped run the Echo Hill Gold Star Camp for children, with his sister Marcie. Kent Perkins, a longtime friend of Friedman, paid tribute to the musician on social media. “Somewhere in heaven,” he wrote, “I’m sure there’s a quiet corner with a big easy chair, a bright floor lamp, a big stack of biographical books, and a few old dogs wagging their tails to the faint smell of cigar smoke.” Image: Rick Diamond/ Shutterstock Editorial

Caring

70s singer finally marries fiancé after almost 50 years together

Denise Nolan, 72, has finally tied the knot with her long-term partner Tom Anderson, aged 77. The couple who have been together for 47 years and engaged for around three decades got married in a ceremony in their hometown of Blackpool. "I had a fabulous day," she revealed to OK magazine. Despite being together for so long, the couple revealed that they never felt the need to rush into their marriage. "We've been together now for 47 years and we love each other. We got engaged about 30 years ago, but we didn't think we needed the piece of paper to say that," she continued. "He's asked me to marry him a few times but usually when he's had a drink and is feeling sentimental! Then I mention it to him the next day and he runs a mile." Denise, who was one part of the popular Irish family band The Nolans said that the decision to finally tie the knot was partially prompted by Tom's Parkinson's diagnosis in 2018. She explained that they "didn't want to wait until further down the line where he might be a lot worse and it could be hard work". For the big day, the pair sat next to each other at the alter of The Wedding Chapel on Blackpool Promenade. "Everybody was crying, even Tom was sobbing," Denise said. "I also picked Frank Sinatra's Love And Marriage because I thought, 'I have to have a comic song in there,' and we're all Sinatra addicts in our family. As we walked back down the aisle we had Tom singing Love Will Keep Us Together. To be able to choose all out own music was really special for us." In her speech during the reception, Denise said: "Meeting you was fate, becoming your partner was a choice, but falling in love with you was beyond my control." The couple first met while Denise was in her band and Tom was working as a resident drummer at the London Rooms in London's West End. They have been inseparable since and now live in Blackpool with some family nearby. Images: Instagram

Relationships

“How good is love”: Riptide singer ties the knot

Australian musician Vance Joy, whose real name is James Keogh, officially tied the knot with his longtime partner, Selen Us on June 12. The pair got married in a beautiful waterfront ceremony by the Marmara sea in Istanbul, Turkey. Vance and a few guests took to Instagram to share photos of the big day. In one photo fans get a glimpse into an intimate moment between the pair standing on a balcony overlooking the water. In another photo, we see the happy newlyweds share their first kiss. The bride donned a sleek backless white gown, while the groom opted for a more classic look in a black suit paired with a bowtie. The pair dated for over three years, and got engaged last November, after enduring a long-distance relationship during Covid. Friends and fans took to the comments to congratulate the couple. “Wow! Congratulations mate. Beautiful photographs.,” wrote Australian creative portrait and music photographer, Max Fairclough. “Guess I don’t have a chance anymore. Congrats!!!! 😂,” quipped a fan. “Congratulations!! Fire and the Flood was my wedding song. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness x,” commented another. “How good is love,” commented a third. “CONGRATS!!! I’m so happy for the two of yous 🥳,” wrote another. Images: Instagram

Relationships

The Girl from Ipanema singer dies at age 83

Brazilian bossa nova singer, Astrud Gilberto, known for her rendition of The Girl from Ipanema, has died aged 83. Her granddaughter, Sofia Gilberto, took to Instagram to announce the news. "I'm here to bring you the sad news that my grandmother became a star today, and is next to my grandfather João Gilberto," she wrote in the caption, which was originally written in Portuguese. "She was a pioneer and the best. At the age of 22, she gave voice to the English version of Girl from Ipanema and gained international fame." Astrud helped popularise bossa nova worldwide, after her version of The Girl from Ipanema sold over 5 million copies. New York-based guitarist, Paul Ricci who collaborated with Astrud, also confirmed the sad news on Facebook. "I just got word from her son Marcelo that we have lost Astrud Gilberto. He asked for this to be posted: She was an important part of ALL that is Brazilian music in the world and she changed many lives with her energy. RIP from 'the chief', as she called me,” he wrote. Fans have paid tribute to the star on social media. “She was the defining cool voice of Bossa Nova which remains intoxicating to this day no matter how often you have heard it and made us dream of Rio,” wrote one fan. “I feel like one part of my childhood suddenly disappeared. RIP Astrud. Much love to all your family,” commented another. “My condolences to the entire family,” wrote a third. Images: Getty

Caring

“Rest easy ma’am”: Tributes flow for singer Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn, the country singer behind Coal Miner’s Daughter and You Ain’t Woman Enough and a leading feminist in the country music scene, has passed away aged 90. Her family broke the news in a statement on Twitter on Tuesday. “Our precious mom, Loretta Lynn, passed away peacefully this morning, October 4th, in her sleep at home in her beloved ranch in Hurricane Mills,” the statement read. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Loretta Lynn ♥️ A pioneering daughter that changed music and the world forever for all the daughters that followed. We’ll miss you but your spirit lives on! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thepill?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#thepill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/forher?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#forher</a> <a href="https://t.co/9XTPwLkVru">pic.twitter.com/9XTPwLkVru</a> — The Chicks (@thechicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/thechicks/status/1577421929673543681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote> With a career spanning six decades, Lynn built her reputation as a feminist voice in the male-dominated world of country music, tackling issues including the freedom provided by birth control and the inequities of heterosexual relationships. Her choice of subject matter was controversial for country music in the 1960s and ‘70s, with Lynn telling one interviewer that 14 of her songs had been banned by radio stations. “I wasn’t the first woman in country music,” she said in a 2007 interview with Esquire magazine. “I was just the first one to stand up there and say what I thought, what life was about. The rest were afraid to.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Loretta Lynn and Sissy Spacek after the 53rd Academy Awards (March 31, 1981). Spacek, who was personally selected by Lynn to portray her in the biographical musical film 'Coal Miner's Daughter,' earned the Best Actress Oscar for her performance as the country music icon. <a href="https://t.co/mbFnBhY1Ic">pic.twitter.com/mbFnBhY1Ic</a> — The Academy (@TheAcademy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAcademy/status/1577424584709705728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote> Even so, Lynn became an icon of the genre with more than 50 top 10 hits according to her website. Lynn went on to become the first woman to win the Country Music Association’s ‘Entertainer of the Year’ award in 1972, as well as seven other CMA awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, and three Grammy Awards as an artist. She won an additional two Grammys in 2004 for her work on the album Van Lear Rose in collaboration with White Stripes frontman Jack White, where she either wrote or co-wrote every song. The singer also received a Grammy Award for lifetime achievement in 2010. In 1988, she was voted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and in 2013 she was presented with a Presidential Medal of Freedom by then-president Barack Obama, who <a href="https://twitter.com/ObamaFoundation/status/1577428821590282242" target="_blank" rel="noopener">noted</a> that she “opened doors for women not only by winning tremendous achievements, but also by raising issues few dared to discuss”. Since the news of her passing broke, tributes have begun to flow for Lynn from fans, fellow singers and friends. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> My heart is broken with the news of my sweet friend Loretta Lynn passing. I will remember all the sweet visits and laughs we shared. RIP sweet Angel. <a href="https://t.co/X5IqiD63an">pic.twitter.com/X5IqiD63an</a> — Stella Parton (@StellaParton) <a href="https://twitter.com/StellaParton/status/1577314224078217217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote> Stella Parton penned an emotional tribute to her “sweet friend” and “angel”, accompanied by a photo of the pair together. “My heart is broken with the news of my sweet friend Loretta Lynn passing. I will remember all the sweet visits and laughs we shared. RIP sweet Angel,” Parton wrote. “She was an inspiration. R.I.P. Loretta Lynn ❤️‍,” Carole King tweeted. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> She was an inspiration. R.I.P. Loretta Lynn ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/VqwmkcOAqy">pic.twitter.com/VqwmkcOAqy</a> — Carole King (@Carole_King) <a href="https://twitter.com/Carole_King/status/1577318037912330240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote> “Joyous. Fierce. One of a kind. I loved meeting and working with Loretta Lynn ❤️‍🕊️🙏,” singer k.d. Lang <a href="https://twitter.com/kdlang/status/1577381590736388096" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared</a>. “Loretta Lynn gave me this ring of hers many moons ago and I’ve cherished it ever since. Rest in peace. We will all miss you so dearly ❤️‍,” actress Brooke Shields said. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Loretta Lynn gave me this ring of hers many moons ago and I’ve cherished it ever since. Rest in peace. We will all miss you so dearly ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/KdgmIiXhXP">pic.twitter.com/KdgmIiXhXP</a> — Brooke Shields (@BrookeShields) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrookeShields/status/1577371993611059232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote> American band The Oak Ridge Boys tweeted: “Loretta Lynn has gone home… Great Britain lost their Queen … now we have lost ours … Rest easy ma’am. You were loved by all … 😢”. Ken Burns, the documentarian behind Country Music, the 2019 miniseries that Lynn took part in, <a href="https://twitter.com/KenBurns/status/1577397952569643009" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wrote</a>: “Loretta Lynn turned life into song, providing a voice to the experiences of American women. “She will always be celebrated as a central part of the history of country music.” Image: Getty Images

Caring

“Goodbye Little Darlin’”: Johnny Cash fan snaps up singer’s former home

After just two months on the market, the sprawling ranch Johnny Cash built in the hills of California has been snagged by a generous local fan. <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/walk-the-rooms-inside-the-house-that-johnny-cash-built" target="_blank" rel="noopener">With an asking price of $US 1.795 million</a> ($NZ 3.16 million), the home’s new owner paid an extra $55,000 ($NZ 96,000) for the keys to the six-acre ranch. The Ring of Fire singer reportedly built the ‘60s style compound in Ventura, California, in 1961 as an escape from Los Angeles and a place where he and his wife, Vivian, could raise their two daughters. Unlike other celebrity neighbours, it seems that Cash was on friendly terms with the locals, with residents from the nearby village of Casitas Springs recalling Cash setting up speakers on the hillside outside his home and playing concerts for the people living below, per <a href="https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/johnny-cash-fan-buys-the-singers-former-ranch-in-ventura/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">realtor.com</a>. In 1966, the couple divorced, with Cash marrying June Carter two years later and relocating to Nashville. Vivian later offloaded the five-bedroom home in the 1970s. Even after all these years, the property still features details from when Cash called it home, including a wall-mounted timetable and painted ceilings “imbued with glitter”, according to <a href="https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/8736-Nye-Rd_Ventura_CA_93001_M13740-10847" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the listing</a>. His wood-panelled studio has also been preserved. Built with high windows, the studio was designed so the six-foot singer could look out without others being able to see in. The panelled walls, wagon wheel chandeliers and curved brick fireplace in the living room also add to the rustic feel of the home’s interior. Outside, you’ll find cypresses and oak trees, a large pool and spa, and a hillside barbecue area where Cash taught his daughters to shoot - with spent shells still being found there sometimes. With the property being zoned for livestock and plenty of fields ready for planting, it’ll be up to the new owner to decide on the fate of the iconic home. Images: Realtor.com / Getty Images

Real Estate

Stranded opera singer busks to earn cash after cancelled flights

After her flight home was cancelled, one Jestar passenger said she was forced to busk for money until she could get home. Edit Pali had travelled to a remote resort in Phuket with her husband Tibor to celebrate her 50th birthday when a cancelled flight saw their stay extend for another five days. Having spent a large portion of their savings on their trip, the couple were faced with the problem of paying for their additional days in the resort. Ms Pali told <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/stranded-aussie-jetstar-passengers-speak-out/04c064ba-f60c-43dd-8ba8-640595f8ddc9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Current Affair</a> that the airline had offered them $30 for meals and $150 for accommodation each day in compensation - but the money failed to arrive. “I’m a tough chook but I cried, I really cried,” she said. Taking advantage of her skills as an opera singer, Ms Pali decided to sing for her supper at breakfast, lunch and dinner while they waited for the funds to come through. "We're just average people, we don't make a lot of money, so for us to go away to Thailand for a week to a luxury resort, that was a big enough chunk into our savings,” she added. A Jetstar spokesperson said they were aware of Ms Pali’s situation and were doing “everything we can”. But Ms Pali isn’t the only person affected by a cancelled flight, as six out of 11 of Jetstar’s 787 planes were grounded earlier this month. At least 4,000 passengers travelling on popular winter routes, including to Bali, Thailand, and Japan, have been affected by delays and cancellations, with the airline blaming lightning, bird strikes and parts shortages. "Our teams work around the clock to get passengers on their way as soon as possible and we provide a range of support, including help to cover accommodation and meals costs as well as other reasonable expenses," the airline said. In a statement, Jetstar said Ms Pali and her husband were due to have their expense claim paid by September 27. Image: A Current Affair

Travel Trouble

Beloved UK actor and singer found dead at 41

British actor, singer and reality TV star Darius Campbell Danesh has died at the age of 41. The young celebrity first found fame when he came third on Pop Idol back in 2002. Later that year, Darius released his first single Colourblind which soared straight to number one, while his album Dive In reached the top 10. He also appeared in popular musicals like Chicago, Guys and Dolls and Gone With The Wind. His heartbroken family announced the devastating news on Tuesday, saying Darius was found dead in his US apartment on August 11. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh,” the statement read. “Darius was found unresponsive in bed in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11 and was pronounced dead in the afternoon by the local medical examiners’ office. “The local police department have confirmed that there were no signs of intent or suspicious circumstances. “The cause of his sudden death is unknown at this stage while medical examinations continue. “We ask that you kindly respect our wishes for privacy at this time while we come to terms with the tragic loss of our son and brother.” Image: Getty

News

Readers respond: If you could resurrect one dead singer for a farewell tour, who would it be?

Most people have fond memories of seeing their favourite artists live in concert, but there are some musicians who passed too soon before they could be appreciated on stage. We asked our readers who they would resurrect for one final farewell tour, and the responses were overwhelming. Here's what they said. Gina Colbert - Omg could only ever be Elvis, God bless. Suzanne Stovel - So many to choose from, John Lennon, George Harrison, Freddy Mercury, Gord Downey, Johnny Cash, John Denver, Helen Reddy, Patsy Cline, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin. I would go to any one of their concerts. So many great singers have passed. Therese Mcdonnell - John Lennon. He deserves sometime with his family. Robyn Burton - Roy Orbison. Dawn Dominick - Freddie Mercury and George Michael. Donna Zwerus - Quite a few singers sadly gone too soon, probably Elvis, others that have already been mentioned. Bobby Darrin, Eva Cassidy, John Denver David Bowie to add to the list. All fabulous singers. Gail Catchlove - John Lennon and Freddie Mercury. Can’t just leave it at one. Wendy Sartori - Gene Pitney, Luciano Pavarotti and Billy Thorpe. Sukirti Gupta - Chester Bennington in a heartbeat. Lynette Bentley - John Denver. Loved his work. Nola Clarke - Michael Jackson. John Davies - George Harrison in a heartbeat. Pauline Whitling - Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson, George Michael, and Aretha Franklin. Image credits: Getty Images

Music

Singer’s fiancée dies on wedding day

Tom Mann, a former contestant on The X Factor in the UK has been left heartbroken after his fiancée and mother of his child died on the morning of their wedding. The singer shared the tragic news to his Instagram on Monday revealing that “the love of my life” Danielle Hampson died on June 18. The touching post was accompanied with a black-and-white selfie of Dani holding the couple’s son, Bowie. “I can’t believe I am writing these words but my darling Dani - my best friend, my everything and more, the love of my life - passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, 18th June,” the post began. “On what was supposed to be the happiest day of our lives ended in irreversible heartbreak. I feel like I have cried an ocean. “We never made it to the alter; or got to say our vows, or dance our first dance, but I know you know that you were my entire world and the best thing that has ever happened to me, Danielle.” Tom said he will continue wearing the ring she gave him to show his “unconditional love” toward her saying that he is lost but will do everything he can to raise their son. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CfCO8xPj1mH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CfCO8xPj1mH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Tom Mann (@tommanninsta)</a> </div> </blockquote> “I will wear this ring that I was always supposed to wear as a sign of my unconditional love to you. “I am completely broken trying to process this and I honestly don’t know where to go from here, but I do know I need to use any strength I can muster for our little boy. “I will not be a mark on the parent that you had already become but I promise I will do my everything to raise Bowie just the way we always wanted. I promise you he will know how amazing his mummy was. I promise to make you so so proud. “The most beautiful person inside and out. The most incredible soul. We have lost such a special person and I am sure we are about to see an abundant outpouring of love that reflects that. “I will try to find peace in your messages and comments, but right now I am grieving and I will be for a very, very long time. “My darling Dani, the brightest light in any room, my world is nothing but darkness without you. I will miss you forever.” Danielle’s cause of death is still unknown. Images: Instagram

Family & Pets

Human Nature singer reveals his secret to a successful marriage

The singer of Aussie band Human Nature has opened up about his 23 year marriage. Andrew Tierney has been married to his wife Heather for 23 years, admitting that the success of his marriage stems from forgiveness. He said the inspiration came from seeing elderly couples who remain together after several years of marriage. "It's not all going to be great times," he told <a href="https://honey.nine.com.au/latest/andrew-tierney-human-nature-childrens-book/6821ab0d-f15f-426c-b25f-0c1e9f3a2eff" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Honey</a>. "I remember reading something about, if you ever see an elderly couple and they are still in love, your first thought should be what have they forgiven each other for. That's the secret, forgiving, and to keep loving.” Andrew confessed that it wasn’t smooth-sailing from when the pair tied the knot, with Heather fearing he would put his music career ahead of the marriage. "Nobody's perfect, we all make mistakes. There was one time when Heather thought I would chose my career over her, there have been so many things, but we have chosen to love each other through it all and forgive each other. "You've got to be there for each other. When you say your wedding vows you say 'for better or for worse' and it's getting though the 'worse' that actually keeps people together." The pair wed in 1999 and share a daughter Violette Faith, who was born in November 2016. Images: Instagram

Relationships

George Michael documentary narrated by the late singer

A new documentary detailing the extraordinary life and career of George Michael is set to hit theatres in June. The documentary, titled George Michael: Freedom Uncut, is described as the artist’s last work, with the late musician being credited as a co-creator on the project. George Michael was heavily involved in the making of the movie prior to his death in 2016, as he also narrates the film, which will offer new insight into his music career and private life. Freedom Uncut chronicles the tumultuous — yet creatively fruitful — period of Michael’s life and career following the release of his 1987 solo debut, Faith, then through the creation and release of his 1990 follow-up Listen Without Prejudice, Vol. 1. Along with documenting his creative efforts during this period, the doco will also explore his relationship with Anselmo Feleppa — who died from AIDS-related complications — as well as the death of Michael’s mother. The film will feature an array of archived footage, including photos from Michael’s private collection, as well as never-before-seen footage from the Freedom! ’90 video, directed by David Fincher. The documentary also includes interviews with Michael’s peers and friends, including Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Nile Rodgers, Mark Ronson, Ricky Gervais, Mary J. Blige, Liam Gallagher, and Tony Bennett, as they recall some of their favourite memories with their late friend who changed the face of music. Image credits: Getty Images

Music

Masked Singer reveal that caused an instant walk-out

As the US version of the Masked Singer begins filming, two judges have reportedly stormed off stage after a controversial contestant's grand reveal.The Hangover actor Ken Jeong and singer Robin Thicke, who are on the judging panel for the US version of the celebrity reality show, left the stage in the middle of filming after former New York mayor and Donald Trump’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani was unmasked as one of the singers.The episode was filmed last week and is set to air later next month.Fellow judges Nicole Scherzinger and Jenny McCarthy remained on-set. It was not revealed how far into the competition Giuliani had managed to progress, nor what costume he was wearing (though social media posts have outed him as ‘Cupcake Face’).Giuliani, 77, a former prosecutor, has become a controversial figure in recent years, off the back of his humiliating cameo in the 2020 Borat film, and for his support of Trump.Jeong and Thicke reportedly returned to stage eventually, where the judges all had a brief chat with Giuliani. The episode has not aired yet but the masses over on Twitter are still getting a kick out of the leaked performance.<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are only one month into 2022 and it is already nuts. (Hey ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/kenjeong?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kenjeong</a>⁩) <a href="https://t.co/iyiPQdNrrH">https://t.co/iyiPQdNrrH</a>— Katie S. Phang (@KatiePhang) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatiePhang/status/1489040975166988288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2022</a></blockquote><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rudy Giuliani being asked on “The Masked Singer” a year after trying to overthrow the government is totally shameless and borderline disturbing, and literally the funniest thing that has ever happened.— Peter Finocchiaro (@PLFino) <a href="https://twitter.com/PLFino/status/1489040179721555974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2022</a></blockquote><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I can’t tell if this is more embarrassing for Fox or Giuliani. <a href="https://t.co/gdzbjZoFeF">https://t.co/gdzbjZoFeF</a>— Adam Smith (@asmith83) <a href="https://twitter.com/asmith83/status/1489031425320005638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2022</a></blockquote>

Music

Unvaccinated singer dies after deliberately catching Covid

The son of a well-known Czech singer who died after catching Covid has spoken out, warning others not to follow his mother’s example. Hana Horka, 57, was a member of Czech folk band Asonance, and had refused to get vaccinated against the virus. After her husband and son, Jan Rek, who are both vaccinated, contracted COVID-19 around Christmas, she refused to isolate from them, instead opting to deliberately contract the virus in order to obtain a Czech health pass, which allows access to public venues for those who can provide proof of vaccination or recent recovery from the virus. Venues such as cinemas, restaurants and bars are currently off-limits to the unvaccinated. Mr Rek told the BBC his mother died suddenly on Sunday after she had seemingly been on the mend. He said, “She should have isolated for a week because we tested positive. But she was with us the whole time. In about 10 minutes it was all over … She choked to death. “Her philosophy was that she was more OK with the idea of catching Covid than getting vaccinated.” He said that his mother would not listen to family members who tried to persuade her to get the vaccine, and said that he wanted to share his family’s story in an effort to convince others to take Covid seriously, saying, “If you have living examples from real life, it’s more powerful than just graphs and numbers. You can’t really sympathise with numbers.” He added that anti-vaxxers had “blood on their hands”, saying, “I know exactly who influenced her … It makes me sad that she believed strangers more than her proper family. “It wasn’t just total disinformation but also views on natural immunity and antibodies acquired through infection.” Image: Facebook

Caring

Singer Stan Walker marries in private ceremony

Singer Stan Walker has tied the knot with partner Lou Tyson in an intimate romantic ceremony in New Zealand. The couple, who first began dating in 2013, said “I do” in a private service last month. Given ongoing COVID restrictions both in Australia and in New Zealand - where they’re based - their plans for a big wedding were put aside in favour of a low-key ceremony with only immediate family. Tyson’s son, who Walker affectionately refers to as “Boy”, was their pageboy, while both of their parents were in attendance, as well as a celebrant. Walker’s siblings — he has three brothers and one sister — all live in Australia so they were unable to attend. But they’ve posted a hauntingly-beautiful video of their wedding on YouTube for all of their friends and family who could not attend – as well as fans. They’ve said they see it as a virtual bonbonnière to share with loved ones. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Pqr2Q5f6-kI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> Plans for a huge event were put on hold The couple had been planning a huge event with hundreds of guests, incorporating both of their extended large ‘whanau’, or family. But they’ve said they still intend to put on a big party in the new year when travel is hopefully back on the table. Tyson wore a traditional white dress, while Walker opted for loose-fitting silk pants and shirt. Walker, 30, first rose to fame when he won Australian Idol in 2009. He went on to become a top recording artist – both in Australia and in New Zealand. He also embarked on some successful television and acting projects. The couple have taken a while to get married. While Tyson has long been the love of Walker’s life, touring and recording commitments separated them in 2017 for some time and they went their separate ways. But they reunited in 2020. While lockdown means live gigs are currently off the table, Walker has been busy working on some new music. His eighth and ninth albums will be released this month and in October. As a backdrop to the couple’s wedding video, Walker sings his song titled: Mateamateaone. He is a cancer survivor, who underwent treatment for stomach cancer a few years ago, and he is a passionate First Nations advocate. Image: YouTube

Relationships

Sex Pistols lead singer causes strife

Two former Sex Pistols members are suing singer Johnny Rotten for the right to use the band’s songs in an upcoming series about the rock icons. Guitarist Steve Jones and drummer Paul Cook are hoping to include the songs in Pistol, a new show based on a memoir written by Jones. Rotten, whose real name is John Lydon, has called the series “disrespectful” and has refused to grant permission for the songs to be included. Edmund Cullen, a lawyer representing Jones and Cook, told a London High Court judge that the former bandmates have a “brittle and fractious” relationship. He argued that decisions regarding licensing requests could be made on a “majority rules basis”, based on the terms of a 1998 band agreement. Lydon has argued that his consent is required for the music to be licensed. Cullen said the band’s original bassist, Glen Matlock, and the estate of Matlock’s replacement, Sid Vicious, were in support of Cook and Jones. Mark Cunningham, Lydon’s lawyer, said in written arguments that the memoir depicts Lydon “in a hostile and unflattering light” and at one point describes the singer as “the annoying little brat with the great bone structure who’s always asking for more”. The court case will continue this week. Pistol stars Anson Boon as Lydon and Maisie Wiliams as Jordan Mooney - also known as Pamela Rooke - and is due to be broadcast next year. Image: Johnny Rotten / Instagram

Music

Roxette singer Marie Fredriksson dies aged 61

Marie Fredriksson, frontwoman of Swedish pop-rock band Roxette, has died at the age of 61 following a long illness. The singer-songwriter passed away on Monday after “a 17-year long battle with cancer”, her management team said in a statement. “You were the most wonderful friend for over 40 years,” her Roxette bandmate Per Gessle said in the statement. “I’m proud, honoured and happy to have been able to share so much of your time, talent, warmth, generosity and sense of humour … Things will never be the same.” Fredriksson was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2002. She underwent treatments and survived, but had health problems as a result of radiation therapy, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/music/2019/dec/10/roxette-singer-marie-fredriksen-dies-aged-61">The Guardian</a> reported. She was able to continue performing until 2016, when her doctors advised her to focus on her health. Debuting as Roxette in 1986, Fredriksson and Gessle achieved success with the single Neverending Love. The duo went on to receive international recognition with The Look, followed by Listen to Your Heart, It Must Have Been Love and Joyride. Roxette’s albums have sold more than 80 million copies worldwide. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Marie Fredriksson 😢 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Roxette?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Roxette</a> - It must have been love <a href="https://t.co/b0puf5qDuA">pic.twitter.com/b0puf5qDuA</a> — Alfredo Velazco (@alfredovelazco) <a href="https://twitter.com/alfredovelazco/status/1204474359961837569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2019</a></blockquote> Fredriksson is survived by her husband Mikael Bolyos and their two children, Josefin and Oscar.

Music

Music therapist creates playlist to calm the mind

It may seem like we are living in an age of anxiety, where feeling worried, upset and stressed has become the norm. But we should remember that anxiety is a <a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/about-anxiety/#.Xc6FEi10fq1">natural human response</a> to situations. It comes when we are not sure what is going to happen, or when we feel under threat. And even mild anxiety can have a negative effect on our ability to lead a productive life. It can interfere with being able to enjoy the simple things in life. When we experience anxiety, our heart and breathing rates increase and many other systems in our bodies <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/effects-on-body#1">experience overload</a>. Anxiety affects our general physical health as well as our emotions. In my work as a music therapist, I’ve noticed the impact music can have on anxiety. For example, in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIdtMOd8k8A">guided imagery sessions</a>, the therapist uses specially selected music and the client is invited to describe what they are feeling and what images the music conjures up. It’s amazing what insights can be gained from simply allowing yourself time to listen and talk about what you see in your mind’s eye. These may be as simple as becoming more aware of how music can affect emotions, or be used to explore past experiences or future dilemmas. It can also be used to find a place of comfort and a secure base where <a href="https://academic.oup.com/jmt/article-abstract/36/1/39/914646?redirectedFrom=fulltext">physical and emotional balance</a> can be found. A <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/relaxing-song-best-weightless-marconi-union-youtube-surgery-anxiety-a9011971.html">recent experiment</a> explored whether certain kinds of music can reduce anxiety during a complex task and concluded that some music is better at doing this than others. <a href="http://theconversation.com/surprising-ways-to-beat-anxiety-and-become-mentally-strong-according-to-science-77978"></a>Also, <a href="https://academic.oup.com/jmt/article-abstract/48/3/264/1002764?redirectedFrom=PDF">a study</a> based on measuring physiological and emotional responses suggests there are certain qualities in music that are better at helping people relax. The speed of the music should be relatively slow, the melody should be simple, and the beat and harmony should not hold too many surprises. Other factors, such as the complexity of the music and – surprisingly – familiarity with the piece, were not so important. In fact, knowing a piece too well was found in some cases to be counterproductive. The genres most likely to support relaxation are classical, soft pop and certain types of world music. These are found to largely contain the musical elements necessary to help a person relax. Press play With these musical elements in mind, here are eight suggested pieces of music that meet these criteria: 1 <a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/ambient-1-music-for-airports-184712/">Ambient 1: Music For Airports</a> by Brian Eno. This soundscape provides a wash of musical effects that echo the rhythm of our physiological functions, leaving space for us to attune to the slow tempo of the music. The album is described in <a href="https://www.roughtrade.com/gb/brian-eno/ambient-1-music-for-airports">one review</a> as “the kind of music one might hear in heaven”. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vNwYtllyt3Q"></iframe></div> 2 Pieds-en-L'Air, from <a href="https://arielmusic.co.uk/product/capriol-suite/">Capriol Suite</a>, by Peter Warlock, a composer and former music critic. Known for his unconventional lifestyle, he died in 1930, aged 36. His musical legacy includes this soft and slow classical piece with a melody reminiscent of songs we may have heard as children. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZMyS1G8NWnY"></iframe></div> 3 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/56FjSa3QWnDE6CxjFTp9rH">Om Namah Shivaya</a> by Deva Premal. The vocals of Premal and supporting music made by her partner Mital hark back to evocative chants from times past. The slow pace and almost hypnotic music combined with her clear vocals feel very supportive. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eUqe31ojZBU"></iframe> 4 <a href="https://www.smoothradio.com/features/adele-someone-like-you-lyrics-meaning-facts/">Someone Like You</a> by Adele. While this hugely successful song explores the issue of loss, the slow tempo and cool accompaniment is found by many to offer a sense of calm and reflection. It has <a href="https://slate.com/culture/2012/02/someone-like-you-makes-us-cry-scientists-explain-why.html">been claimed</a> that the piece’s emotional strength is due to small, unexpected changes in the melody or “ornamental notes”, which create a melancholic tension. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hLQl3WQQoQ0"></iframe></div> 5 <a href="https://www.classicfm.com/composers/einaudi/music/i-giorni/">I Giorni</a>, by Ludovico Einaudi, an Italian pianist and composer who has written numerous film soundtracks. This piano piece, with its repetitive motifs and steady tempo, evokes a dreamlike state with moments of light and brightness. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Uffjii1hXzU"></iframe></div> 6 <a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/in-paradisum-9780193418042?cc=gb&lang=en&">In Paradisum</a>, by Gabriel Fauré, a French composer who gained great popularity in his lifetime, but suffered from deafness in his later years. In this piece, from his Requiem, the choir and organ accompaniment provide a feeling of serenity. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6-i1ESIRKdA"></iframe></div> 7 <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=Stopover+at+Djibouti&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8">Stopover at Djibouti</a> by Anouar Ibrahem, a Tunisian oud player and composer. He is widely acclaimed as an innovator in his field, fusing Arab classical music, folk music and jazz. This world jazz piece has hypnotic motifs that can seem almost meditative. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c2S8LpvZrnQ"></iframe></div> 8 <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&ei=hq7OXekQpYbV8A_vxaUw&q=stefan+nilsson+composer+wilmas+tema&oq=stefan+nilsson+composer+wilm&gs_l=psy-ab.3.0.33i22i29i30.2182.3289..4456...0.0..0.99.402.5......0....1..gws-wiz.......0i22i30.I3sNgC11uJY">Wilma’s Theme</a> by Stefan Nilsson, a Swedish composer and pianist who is well known in is home country. This piece, which seems somehow familiar, has a simple melody and harmonies that provide a safe landing place. <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ytBW9x6Zvcc"></iframe></div> This list offers some suggestions of music that could be used to help people relax. A favourite of mine, which I haven’t included, is the slow movement from JS Bach’s Double Violin Concerto. It never fails to give me a sense of feeling safe and grounded, something that can be so important when we may be feeling anxious. It should be said, though, that many <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0218017">studies</a> emphasise the importance of finding your own selection of music that works for you. Whatever your musical taste is, you have the edge on any prescribed playlist in finding what is best for you.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/121655/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/elizabeth-coombes-754445">Elizabeth Coombes</a>, Senior Lecturer in Music Therapy, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-wales-1586">University of South Wales</a> This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/anxiety-a-playlist-to-calm-the-mind-from-a-music-therapist-121655">original article</a>. </div>

Music

“Too frail to get out of bed”: Elton John shares Freddie Mercury’s last days before passing away

Sir Elton John has shared on Queen legend Freddie Mercury’s final days before he passed away of AIDS at the age of 45. John explained in his new book Me: Elton John that Mercury kept his illness a secret from him. "I visited him a lot when he was dying, although I could never stay for much longer than an hour,” John remembered. "It was too upsetting – I didn’t think he wanted me to see him like that." He also detailed Mercury’s appearance. "He was too frail to get out of bed, he was losing his sight, his body was covered in Kaposi's sarcoma lesions, and yet he was still definitely Freddie, gossiping away, completely outrageous. "I couldn’t work out whether he didn’t realise how close to death he was or if he knew perfectly well but was determined not to let what was happening to him stop him being himself." John discusses how Mercury also helped him get sober, as they pointedly told John he was overdoing it on cocaine at the height of his addiction in the 1980s. He has now been clean for nearly three decades.

Music

Homeless soprano: Overnight fame for street singer after brilliant opera performance captures the world

A homeless Los Angeles woman has achieved instant viral fame, and a potential chance at a professional career after her brilliant opera singing caught the attention of an LAPD officer. Underground the Californian metropolis’ Koreatown district, the unknown woman who had shopping bags and a trolley in tow could be heard belting out a Puccini classic, O mio babbino caro. Once she noticed she was being recorded, she continued the performance, as her vocals were heard throughout the Metro station. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-lang="en-gb"> 4 million people call LA home. 4 million stories. 4 million voices...sometimes you just have to stop and listen to one, to hear something beautiful. <a href="https://t.co/VzlmA0c6jX">pic.twitter.com/VzlmA0c6jX</a> — LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/LAPDHQ/status/1177423181679755264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">27 September 2019</a></blockquote> The woman was later identified as 52-year-old Emily Zamourka, who grew up in Russia and immigrated to America as a 24-year-old classically trained violinist and pianist. But to everyone’s surprise, she’s never had any formal voice coaching. Zamourka says she found it hard to work after dealing with a number of debilitating health problems. She would then busk on LA’s busy streets, until her $10,000 violin was stolen three years ago. “[The violin] was my income. It was my everything to me – I could not actually pay any of my bills and could not pay any more of my rent,” Zamourka told local television networks. “I am sleeping, actually, on the cardboard in the parking lot. I’m sleeping where I can sleep.” The original video has been viewed over 560,000 times with many people trying to get Ellen DeGeneres and America’s Got Talent’s attention. For Zamourka, she just wants to leave her current circumstances behind. “I will be so grateful to anyone who is trying to help me get off the streets,” she said.

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