Little Jimmy Dickens in hospital, listed critical

 

Grand Ole Opry legend Little Jimmy Dickens has been hospitalized with an undisclosed illness.

Jessie Schmidt, a publicist for the Opry, said in a news release Sunday that Dickens was admitted to a Nashville-area hospital on Dec. 25 and that he’s in “critical care.”

His last performance at the Opry was Dec. 20 as part of his birthday celebration. He turned 94 a day earlier.

Dickens, who is 4-foot-11, has performed on the Opry almost continuously since 1948. He became an Opry member in 1948 and was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983.

His hits include “Take An Old Cold Tater (And Wait),” ‘‘Country Boy,” ‘‘Out Behind The Barn,” and “May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose.”

Alica Keys welcomes second child

Alicia Keys gave birth to son Genesis Ali Dean early on Saturday morning. It’s baby number two for the Grammy-winner and her husband, producer-rapper Swizz Beatz, who are also parents to 4-year-old Egypt Daoud.

The 33-year-old singer shared the news on her Instagram account Sunday with a photo of Genesis’s footprints. The image also details that the baby was born at 1:52 a.m. and weighs 6 pounds, 5 ounces.

Keys expressed excitement in her social media captions, saying that “the joy of joy is joy” and that she is grateful.

--Associated Press

Martina McBride shares some holiday spirit, announces new record label deal       Superstar Entertainer Signs With Big Machine Label Group & Cumulus Joint Venture   Pictured (L-R): Martina McBride and Jenna Bush Hager Photo Courtesy of NBC/TODAY NASHVILLE, TN  – Martina McBride sat down with TODAY Show correspondent Jenna Bush Hager at her Nashville, TN home to share some holiday memories and excitement for 2015. In the midst of talking family traditions, favorite Christmas classics and what treats the McBrides leave for Santa (Dr. Pepper and cookies), Martina exclusively revealed that she has signed a new record deal with NASH ICON MUSIC, a joint venture label between the Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) and Cumulus that will produce new music and live events from Nashville’s most prolific artists over the last 25 years. Watch here. Ever the consummate hostess, Martina moved the conversation into the kitchen for some Triple Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies and Cranberry Margarita Martinis from the “Mistletoe and Martinis” chapter of her new book Around the Table (William Morrow/HarperCollins Publishing). ABOUT MARTINA MCBRIDE: Martina McBride made history with her most recent album EVERLASTING as the first solo female artist to debut at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart with an independently released and distributed album in the chart's 50-year history. The project also marks her fifth chart-topping debut. To date, she has sold over 18 million albums, which have included 20 Top 10 singles and six #1 hits. She has earned more than 15 major music awards, including four wins for Female Vocalist of the Year from the Country Music Association. The petite powerhouse’s EVERLASTING TOUR has been well received with sold-out shows across the country. Backed by an 11-piece band, complete with R&B-revue-style horns, Martina brings the iconic sounds of the '50s and '60s from her latest album alive. “It's familiar music coming from the one of the most recognizable voices of any genre, yet with a stage plot unlike anything in McBride's illustrious 22-year career,” praised Rolling Stone Country. In October she released her first book, Around The Table, a full-color illustrated collection of Martina's favorite recipes, entertaining tips, practical menu planning advice, and themed décor inspiration. # # #

Grammy-Award Winning Band Imagine Dragons To Release New Album, Smoke + Mirrors, On February 17th  

 

STANDARD EDITION NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER ON ITUNES -THOSE WHO PRE-ORDER TO RECEIVE INSTANT DOWNLOADS OF BAND'S CURRENT SINGLE, "I BET MY LIFE" AND NEW SONG "GOLD"

EXCLUSIVE DELUXE FEATURING FOUR EXTRA TRACKS + EXCLUSIVE COVER ART, AVAILABLE ONLY AT TARGET STORES AND ON TARGET.COM

TARGET DELUXE EDITION NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER AT TARGET.COM

Multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning rock band Imagine Dragons will release their new album, entitled Smoke + Mirrors, on February 17^th, 2015, via KIDinaKORNER/Interscope Records. 
A standard version of Smoke + Mirrors is now available for pre-order on iTunes. Those who pre-order the standard edition receive instant downloads of the album's first single "I Bet My Life" and the song "Gold." In addition, an exclusive deluxe edition available only at Target, featuring four extra tracks and exclusive cover art, will go on sale in stores and on Target.com on February 17^th. That version can be pre-ordered on Target.com beginning today. Fans can also pre-order a limited edition "art box deluxe" version of the album HERE. This format includes lithograph prints designed by artist Tim Cantor for every song on the album as well as an oversized album booklet in a collectible box.  Those who buy the limited edition gain early access to purchase tickets for the band's 2015 tour.  A standard version will be available at other retailers for digital download, streaming via subscription services and on CD/ vinyl.
Watch a trailer featuring footage of the making of Smoke + Mirrors HERE.
The video for "I Bet My Life," which is currently Top 5 at Modern Rock radio, can be seen HERE on Vevo.  Directed by Canadian filmmaker Jodeb (Zedd + Foxes' "Clarity"), the video features American actor Dane DeHaan (The Amazing Spider-Man 2).  Last month, the Las Vegas quartet performed the song on The American Music Awards and took home the award for "Favorite Artist — Alternative Rock" for the second year in a row. Watch the band's performance on the AMA's HERE.
On Smoke + Mirrors, Imagine Dragons use the frenetic energy of life on the road to infuse their music with both raw tension and intense vulnerability. As on their double-platinum full-length debut Night Visions, the band works with sharply crafted beats and grooves to dream up rhythm-driven rock music that's artful yet visceral. Also revealing the band's dedication to keeping it homespun, Smoke + Mirrors marks the first release recorded in their new self-built home studio.
Formed in 2009 and featuring lead vocalist Dan Reynolds, guitarist Wayne Sermon, bassist Ben McKee, and drummer Daniel Platzman, Imagine Dragons earned a grassroots following by independently releasing a series of EPs. After Alex Da Kid signed them to his KIDinaKORNER/Interscope label, the band made its major-label debut with the release of Continued Silence, a 2012 EP featuring the 2x platinum breakthrough single "It's Time." Night Visions arrived later that year and Imagine Dragons found themselves on a skyward trajectory that saw the album debut at No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart, sell nearly four million copies worldwide, and became the No. 1 album on Spotify Worldwide for 2013. Night Visions' second single, the 9x-platinum "Radioactive," hit No. 1 on the Billboard Rock chart and earned the band a 2014 Grammy for "Best Rock Performance." It is the best-selling rock song in U.S. digital history. The third single, "Demons," hit No. 1 at Alternative and Top 40 radio, and has sold 3.9 million copies in the U.S. The band has sold more than 24 million tracks worldwide.
STANDARD1. Shots
2. Gold
3. Smoke And Mirrors
4. I'm So Sorry
5. I Bet My Life
6. Polaroid
7. Friction
8. It Comes Back To You
9. Dream
10. Trouble
11. Summer
12. Hopeless Opus
13. The Fall
For more about Imagine Dragons, visit:
www.imaginedragonsmusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/ImagineDragons
https://twitter.com/imaginedragons
https://www.youtube.com/user/ImagineDragonsVEVO
SOURCE KIDinaKORNER/Interscope Records

Extended By Popular Demand: Crystal Gayle Exhibit Shines On at Country Music Hall of Fame

Country Star’s Legacy Being Showcased Through February 1st
 

Nashville, Tenn. (December 18, 2014) – The spotlight continues to shine on the legacy of Grammy-winning recording star Crystal Gayle at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.  Due to popular demand, the Crystal Gayle: When I Dream exhibit has been extended until Sunday, February 1, 2015 to further showcase her exceptional life and worldwide acclaim.

"I am honored and very excited that the Country Music Hall of Fame has extended my exhibit.  So many fans have told me how much they have enjoyed my display at the Hall of Fame, and I have too,” says Crystal Gayle.

The iconic singer’s numerous accolades and awards include 22 #1 hit singles and 34 Top 10 singles.  Crystal Gayle has released more than 30 albums and was the first female Country artist to reach Platinum sales of an album.  She was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009, and has performed more than 3,000 concerts for over ten million fans across the globe.

For additional information, please visit: crystalgayle.com or countrymusichalloffame.org.

Featured artifacts among the Crystal Gayle: When I Dream exhibit:

• Hand-stitched valentine Crystal made in third grade for her mother, Clara 
• Crystal Gayle’s custom white microphone, with her name engraved in gold 
• Red parlor guitar, custom built by luthier Danny Ferrington in 1980 
• Photos of teenaged Crystal Gayle and sisters Loretta Lynn and Peggy Sue that hung on their mother’s living room wall 
• LP cover for the soundtrack album to the 1982 film, One from the Heart, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, featuring Gayle and Tom Waits. The album featured Gayle performing solo or as a duet partner with Waits, who wrote the songs. 
• Flight suit and boots she wore on her F-16 flight in 1984 
• 1977 Grammy for Best Female Country Performance, for “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” 
• 1976 ACM Female Vocalist of the Year trophy 
• Marble and crystal Indiana Living Legend award, presented to Crystal in 2005 
• Mattel’s Crystal “Eagle” Gayle Air Force Barbie doll, which commemorated both her 1984 flight aboard an F-16 fighter and the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force

# # #

Kid Rock to Headline the DAYTONA 500 Budweiser Pre-Race Show

Multi-platinum award-winning, American rock star Kid Rock will perform the DAYTONA 500 Budweiser Pre-Race Show, the prelude to the 57^th annual "Great American Race" on Sunday, Feb. 22 (1 p.m. – FOX, FOX Deportes, MRN Radio and SiriusXM Radio.)
To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7395051-daytona-500-budweiser-pre-race-show-kid-rock/
Kid Rock will perform several of his hits, including his brand new single "First Kiss," on pit road of the "World Center of Racing" prior to the start of the DAYTONA 500, the prestigious season-opening event of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. All race fans that purchase a Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access pass for the DAYTONA 500 can enjoy Kid Rock's DAYTONA 500 Budweiser Pre-Race Show up close, along with driver introductions.
"We're thrilled to have Kid Rock entertain the thousands of race fans in attendance and the millions more watching on FOX," Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III said. "Kid Rock is an avid NASCAR fan and will provide race fans with a spectacular performance leading up to the start of the much anticipated DAYTONA 500.
Following his performance, Kid Rock will release his latest studio album First Kiss on Tuesday, Feb. 24. Fans can pre-order the album now at participating retailers and at KidRock.com. Kid Rock, whose musical style ranges from hip hop and rock to heavy metal and country, has sold more than 26 million albums worldwide.
Kid Rock joins a long list of past performers of the DAYTONA 500 Budweiser Pre-Race Show including Luke Bryan, Zac Brown Band, Lenny Kravitz, Brad Paisley, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban and Bon Jovi.
In addition to his concert, a special ticket package designed around Kid Rock has been created that includes a DAYTONA 500 grandstand ticket, Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access and VIP area access to Kid Rock's performance.  Packages start at $169. Fans who have already purchased DAYTONA 500 tickets can add Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access along with VIP area access for just $104.
For more information on tickets for the 57th annual DAYTONA 500 and Sprint FANZONE/Pre-Race access, race fans can visit http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.
Fans can follow NASCAR on Twitter and stay up to speed on the latest news by using hashtag #DAYTONA500 and #SPEEDWEEKS. Fans can also stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest for the latest news all season long. Fans can follow the latest on DAYTONA Rising, the $400 million frontstretch renovation at the "World Center of Racing" by using #DAYTONARising on Twitter or visiting www.daytonarising.com.
For more information on Kid Rock, visit www.kidrock.com.

MADONNA RETURNS TO THE TOP OF THE CHARTS AROUND THE WORLD WITH SURPRISE RELEASE OF SIX SONGS FROM HER UPCOMING REBEL HEART ALBUM

COLLECTION OF SONGS REACH #1 ON iTUNES IN 36 COUNTRIES WITHIN HOURS

 

Photo Credit:  Mert Alas and Marcus Piggot

NEW YORK, NY - December 21, 2014 - Madonna is currently #1 in 36 countries around the world with the release of six songs from her forthcoming album Rebel Heart.  In virtually every country the songs were released, they held six of the ten slots on the Top 10 iTunes chart. In seven of those countries, she had multiple No. 1's. The single Living for Love is currently No. 1 in 20 countries.  The six songs - Living For Love, Devil Pray, Ghosttown, Unapologetic Bitch, Illuminati and Bitch I'm Madonna (featuring Nicki Minaj) - are available HERE.

The news of the surprise drop came when Madonna posted a link late last night on Instagram announcing the release of the six songs as, "an early Christmas gift" to those that preordered the album.  Fans immediately went to iTunes and drove the songs to #1 around the globe.   Instantaneously Rebel Heart exploded on social media with the album topping the Billboard Trending 140 Chart.  On Facebook #Madonna was the No. 1 trending topic and continues to trend there.  Additionally, #Madonna and #RebelHeart have been trending on Twitter in the US all day.

Rebel Heart will be released in March 2015 on Interscope Records.   Producers include Madonna, Diplo (Living For Love, Bitch I'm Madonna, Unapologetic Bitch), Kanye West (Illuminati), Billboard (Ghosttown), DJ Dahi and Blood Diamonds (Devil Pray). The album was recorded in London, Los Angeles and New York.

 

 

 

# # #

www.madonna.com

www.instagram.com/madonna

www.facebook.com/madonna

www.youtube.com/madonna

www.twitter.com/madonna

The Legendary R&B/Hip-Hop Super Group Jodeci Returns After 18-Year Hiatus 

 

 Jodeci, the R&B/Hip-Hop powerhouse that dominated the 1990's and pioneered a sound that would inspire artists for decades, has returned with new music after an 18-year hiatus

The new song from Jodeci titled, "Nobody Wins," features rapper B.O.B. and is a powerful record with an important anti-domestic violence message 

 

One of the most impactful artists of the 1990's has returned after an 18-year hiatus. The super group responsible for unforgettable records such as "Come and Talk to Me," "Forever My Lady," and "Feenin" gave fans a sneak peek at their newest record "Nobody Wins" with a performance at the Soul Train Awards last month on Sunday, Nov. 30, 2014. Jodeci performed a snippet of the record as part of a medley performance of the group's most popular hit songs.

Now Jodeci has followed up the Soul Train Awards performance with a lyric video for "Nobody Wins" with an anti-domestic violence message. The video is available now at:  http://youtu.be/Q2Ce7hpNV2o
In fact, Jodeci has continued to record records over the past 18 years. However, the group didn't feel a cohesive creative direction until now. "We've recorded hundreds of songs, even if it's bits and pieces and fragments of songs that we could probably live off of for the rest of our lives," Mr. Dalvin explained to RollingStone Magazine. "But when creating this album, we chose a body of work that really represents us as a group and represents what people are expecting to hear from Jodeci as a group. People will be pleasantly surprised."
Jodeci feels that now is the time to return with new music. But the group feels that their return comes with a responsibility. As an important group that has always had a voice in culture, Jodeci wants to return with great music that also serves to entertain and inspire. "Nobody Wins" is a record that discourages domestic violence and violence in general and is a message personal to each member of Jodeci.
"We aren't immune to issues that are important in our community. Domestic violence has always been an issue in relationships, but lately it's been brought to the front of our community consciousness," K-Ci explains.
Jodeci is scheduling the release of their new album in the first quarter of 2015, which will officially celebrate the powerhouse group's triumphant return to music.
"Nobody Wins" is available for purchase at Amazon at: http://smarturl.it/jodecinobodywinsamz
Jodeci On The Web:
http://www.instagram/jodecimusic
http://www.facebook.com/jodeci
http://www.twitter.com/jodecimusic
http://www.youtube.com/jodecimusic
http://www.jodeci.com

SOURCE Jodeci

 

 Two Tribute bands booked for Old Rock House shows in January

Forgotten Space

Grateful Dead Tribute

Friday, January 23rd

Doors 8pm  Show 9pm

$12 Flat

18+ Only

(On-Sale Now)

http://youtu.be/JlZkVrm-4Eo

FORGOTTEN SPACE is a Texas based Grateful Dead tribute band comprised of six diverse musicians with a deep understanding and respect for the rich and varied Grateful Dead songbook. Formed in 2006, the band has continuously grown both in it's popularity and it's repertoire. All the while, they have meticulously bridged the gap between creating the sound and feel of the Grateful Dead experience and finding the balanced, tasteful space to express their own personal identities as musicians. Staying true to form, the instrumentation of two guitars, bass, keyboards, two drummers, and strong three and four part vocal harmonies creates an incredibly accurate representation of the real enchilada. Add to that a willingness to explore arrangements from all eras of the Dead's body of work (1965-1995), and you end up with an all out, explosive mixture of good vibes, endless dance party, and deep space musical exploration which engages Deadheads and non-Deadheads alike.

Mom's Kitchen

Widespread Panic Tribute

Saturday, January 31st

Doors 8pm  Show 9pm

$7 Cover

18+ Only

Mom's Kitchen is the nation’s premier Widespread Panic tribute band. Formed in the winter of 2010 in St. Louis, MO the band built up their reputation early and often. Keeping true to Widespread Panic as much as possible they try to portray each song the way it was intended all the while exploring the vast amounts of space inside each melody to put their own mark on that signature sound. Night after night their set lists are never the same; it is truly an experience that can't be explained.

www.facebook.com/oldrockhouse
www.twitter.com/oldrockhousestl

www.instagram.com/old_rock_house_stl

Ronnie Milsap coming to River City Casino

 

Friday, February 20th • 8:00PM

River City Casino Events Center

Tickets $29.50 - $49.50

In 1972, Milsap signed with RCA Victor, producing a slew of hit singles followed, including "I Hate You" (1973), "Pure Love," and "Please Don't Tell Me How the Story Ends" (both 1974). For the latter single, Milsap was awarded a Grammy for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. Furthermore, the Country Music Association named Milsap male vocalist of the year in 1974, 1976, and 1977.

In 1981, Milsap recorded the heart wrenching ballad "Smoky Mountain Rain," which introduced him to a larger audience when it crossed over to the pop charts. He secured the same success with the songs "(There's) No Gettin' Over Me" (1981) and "Any Day Now" (1982). In 1986, Milsap won another Best Male Country Vocal Performance Grammy for the album Lost in the Fifties Tonight (1986). The following year, he shared a Best Country Vocal Performance Duet Grammy with Kenny Rogers for their collaboration on the single "Make No Mistake, She's Mine."

In 1990, Milsap published an autobiography, Almost Like a Song, which chronicled his ascent from poverty-stricken beginnings to country music superstar. He collaborated with country rock veterans Alabama to record the 1997 holiday album Christmas in Dixie. Most recently, Milsap released the album Then Sings My Soul (2009).

To date, Milsap boasts 40 No.1 country hits, six Grammy Awards, and eight Country Music Association Awards.

Friday, February 20th • 8:00PM
Tickets $29.50-$49.50
Purchase Tickets

LITTLE BIG TOWN ANNOUNCES SPRING LEG OF THE PAIN KILLER TOUR KICKING OFF IN MARCH 2015 AND NEWSINGLE “GIRL CRUSH” RELEASED TO COUNTRY RADIO TODAY

Live at the Fabulous Fox Friday, March 20 at 8:00 p.m. 

$42.50, $20.00

Gold Circle seats will also be available.

On-Sale Information:Tickets go on sale Friday, January 23 at 10AM online at metrotix.com, by calling 314-534-1111, or in person at the Fabulous Fox Box Office.

 (St. Louis, MO)  — GRAMMY award-winning country group Little Big Town has added a spring leg of THEPAIN KILLER TOUR that will kick off on March 5, 2015 in Savannah, GA which will include a stop in St. Louisat the Fabulous Fox Theatre Friday, March 20 at 8:00 p.m. The foursome-consisting of Karen Fairchild, JimiWestbrook, Phillip Sweet, and Kimberly Schlapman-will also be releasing their highly anticipated new single,“Girl Crush,” to country radio today.The next run of THE PAIN KILLER TOUR, produced by AEG LIVE/The Messina Group, will feature specialguest Chris Stapleton and hit over 12 cities nationwide.  The band will again offer a unique VIP experience forfans;  allowing them to choose from 2 limited packages including meet  and greets,  pre-show soundcheckaccess,  exclusive merchandise and more.  For more information on THE PAIN KILLER TOUR dates,  VIPpackages, and pre-sale tickets visit www.littlebigtown.com  

“Girl  Crush,”  the  second  released  single  from the  band’s  newest  album,  PAIN  KILLER (Capitol  RecordsNashville),  features  Fairchild  on lead vocals  and follows on  the heels  of  the  group’s  recent  #1 hit,  “DayDrinking.”  Written by Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, and Hillary Lindsey, Rolling Stone has hailed the soulful balladas a “slow, exquisitely excruciating lover’s lament with a Phil Spectorian sense of emotional grandeur.” Since PAIN KILLER’S release on October 21, the sixth studio album from the group has seen rave reviews andhas made both Billboard and Rolling Stone’s “Best Country Album of 2014” lists as well as “iTunes Best of2014” list for “Country Album of the Year.”  The band also just received a nomination for the 2015 GRAMMYAwards for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Day Drinking.”

Dustin Lynch coming to Ballpark Village

 

Dustin Lynch is coming to Ballpark Village to kick off the second half of 92.3 WIL Hot Country Nights Concert Series on Friday, February 6th, presented by Ford Motor Company & TabbedOut! Tickets go on sale Wednesday 12.17 at 10am on Ticketfly! #HCNSTL — at St. Louis Ballpark Village.

Las Vegas Rings In 2015 With Dazzling New Year's Eve Extravaganzas 

The Entertainment Capital of the World Welcomes the New Year with Explosive Fireworks Displays, Concerts, Nightlife and Dining

LAS VEGAS, -- Las Vegas is the ultimate destination to bring in the New Year with stellar experiences across the Strip and beyond. The destination will host one of the largest pyrotechnic fireworks shows in the world along with unparalleled nightclub parties and concerts by A-list performers and decadent culinary offerings from remarkable chefs. There is something for everyone looking to kick-off 2015 in Las Vegas.
FIREWORKS DISPLAYS
With a number of fireworks displays on and off the Strip, Las Vegas will absolutely ring in the New Year with a bang.
The world-famous Las Vegas Strip will be home to a stunning fireworks display launching from the rooftops of seven iconic resorts, including MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Caesars Palace, Treasure Island (TI), The Venetian Las Vegas and Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower. The highly anticipated America's Party is hosted by Las Vegas Events (LVE) and Las Vegas with the fireworks display produced by world-renowned Fireworks by Grucci of New York. The eight minute and 12 second show will light up the night's sky with more than 88,000 fireworks.
Revelers can rock into 2015 on Fremont Street Experience with the Downtown Countdown New Year's Eve 2015 Celebration. The event takes place from 6 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. on Dec. 31, with a year-in-review retrospective on the Viva Vision screen, a midnight countdown and an epic fireworks display by Grucci.
The High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel, at The LINQ Promenade offers a 360-degree view of the destination's fabulous fireworks displays on New Year's Eve. Visitors can purchase VIP cabins that begin loading at 10:30 p.m. and will be at a standstill for the displays at midnight.
CONCERTS & ENTERTAINMENT
The "Entertainment Capital of the World" is sure to delight all visitors with the seemingly endless amount of special performances scheduled to celebrate 2015.
Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga take the stage together for the first time in Las Vegas at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The dynamic duo will perform music from the recently released album, Cheek to Cheek, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 30 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 31.
GRAMMY® award-winning pop-rock band, Maroon 5 performs at 7 p.m. on Dec. 30 and 31 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino.
Returning to MGM Grand Garden Arena at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino is world-famous singer/actor, Justin Timberlake for The 20/20 Experience World Tour. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. on Jan. 1 and 2.
Britney Spears is back on Dec. 30 and 31 at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Beginning at 9 p.m., fans will experience their favorite songs during the sexy, action-packed resident show, Britney: Piece of Me.
Guests can kick-off the New Year's celebrations with a hilarious performance by Katt Williams on Dec. 30, at The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. On Dec. 31, concert-goers can rock out alongside Sevendust as the band performs a heavy metal set at Vinyl, also inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
NIGHTLIFE
Party-goers can dance the night away as the world's leading DJs keep the celebration going well into the New Year.
LiFE Nightclub at SLS Las Vegas will celebrate the start of 2015 with renowned producer/DJ Steve Angello. The crowd will ring in the New Year to Angello's biggest hits for an unparalleled musical experience. Foxtail Nightclub, also at SLS Las Vegas, welcomes singer/songwriter Robin Thicke on Dec. 31 for a special New Year's Eve event.
Hakkasan, inside MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, welcomes ever-popular DJ Hardwell on Dec. 30 and resident DJ Calvin Harris for a celebration to remember on Dec. 31.
Hyde Bellagio at Bellagio will celebrate New Year's Eve in style as GRAMMY® award-winning singer, songwriter and producer, Miguel, takes the stage for a performance on Dec. 31.
Hip-hop heavy-hitter, Drake, will deliver a special performance on Dec. 31 at Marquee Nightclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The evening includes a celebratory champagne toast at midnight, premium open bar from 9 to 11 p.m. and hors d'oeuvres from 9 p.m. to midnight.
Drai's Nightclub at The Cromwell welcomes global musical sensation, Iggy Azalea, to rock the Strip with a live concert on Dec. 31.  Drai's Nightclub is a 65,000 square-foot rooftop venue overlooking the Strip and a great location for a unique view of Las Vegas' fireworks displays. 
Snoop Dogg will grace the stage at TAO Nightclub inside The Venetian Las Vegas on Dec. 31. The musical legend will host a special New Year's Eve edition of The Snoopadelic Cabaret. Guests can enjoy hors d'oeuvres from 9 p.m. to midnight and indulge in a premium open bar from 9 to 11 p.m.
International DJ and producer, Zedd, returns to XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas for a one-of-a-kind New Year's celebration on Dec. 31. Resident DJ Lil Jon will also take to the turntables on Dec. 31 at Surrender Nightclub at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas. Three Ultimate VIP packages are available that include everything from a dinner tasting menu at the adjoining Asian dining hot spot, Andrea's, and midnight countdown with Lil Jon in the DJ booth.
DINING
Located more than 800 feet above the Las Vegas Strip is Top of the World restaurant at Stratosphere Hotel, Casino and Tower. Executive Chef Rick Giffen has prepared a one-of-a-kind, five-course menu to ring in the New Year with items such as: braised beef short rib with star anise reduction, lobster bisque with lemon mascarpone cream and a dessert extravaganza.
Comme Ca at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is celebrating 2015 with a special four-course, prix fixe dinner menu and optional wine pairing. Dishes include Musquee de Provence pumpkin soup with Alba white truffles, foie gras terrine, Wagyu beef short rib and langoustine chestnut ravioli, and white truffle and pumpkin charlotte.
Before the clock strikes midnight, revelers are encouraged to stop by N9NE Steakhouse at Palms Casino Resort. Executive Chef Barry Dakake has developed an exceptional menu, including tender Japanese Kobe beef tenderloin, scrumptious Alaskan king crab gnocchi and more. The celebrations continue at Palms Casino Resort at Michelin-starred Alize. Diners can delight over two exquisite prix fixe menu options, created by Chef de Cuisine Mark Purdy, while taking in breathtaking 280-degree panoramic views of the Strip. Chef Kerry Simon's special New Year's Eve menu at Simon Restaurant & Lounge at Palms Place offers a unique concentration of the freshest seasonal items and quality organic ingredients.
Foodies can indulge at La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas. Executive Chef Billy DeMarco offers diners the choice of a four-course or five-course menu.
Restaurants inside Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino will also partake in the New Year festivities. STRIPSTEAK, Fleur by Hubert Keller, Charlie Palmer's Aureole, Bayside Buffet and Ri Ra are offering special coursed menus and holiday extravaganzas.
TRANSPORTATION
Getting around the Strip is easy with The Las Vegas Monorail. While New Year's Eve is one of the busiest times of the year and the famed boulevard is closed to automobile transportation, the Monorail provides convenient connections to major Strip destinations for hassle-free transit. Visitors can purchase a special pass, valid Dec. 27 to Jan. 1. Riders should use promo code NYE2014 when purchasing tickets at any Monorail customer service ticketing office, online at tickets.lvmonorail.com or at any eTicket kiosk. 
To begin the countdown, get information and book an unforgettable trip to Las Vegas, visit www.LasVegas.com.
Photos and video of Las Vegas are available at www.thenewsmarket.com/LVCVA.
ABOUT THE LVCVA The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with marketing Southern Nevada as a tourism and convention destination worldwide, and also with operating the Las Vegas Convention Center and Cashman Center.  With more than 150,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas alone and nearly 11 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space citywide, the LVCVA's mission centers on attracting ever increasing numbers of leisure and business visitors to the area.  For more information, go to www.lvcva.com or www.LasVegas.com.

BIG MACHINE LABEL GROUP PRESIDENT & CEO
SCOTT BORCHETTA
JOINS “AMERICAN IDOL XIV” AS MENTOR

 

IDOL Winner to Join Borchetta’s Talent Roster, which Includes
Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw, Reba, Rascal Flatts and Florida Georgia Line

AMERICAN IDOL XIV Launches with Two-Night, Three-Hour Premiere Event
Wednesday (1/7) and Thursday (1/8)

Los Angeles, CA – SCOTT BORCHETTA, President and CEO of the Big Machine Label Group and one of the most successful forces in the music industry today, has joined AMERICAN IDOL XIV as mentor to help shape the career of the competition’s winner. BORCHETTA’s relationship with the next AMERICAN IDOL will extend past the show’s finale; BORCHETTA’s Big Machine Records will partner with 19 Entertainment and Universal Music Group to oversee the launch of his/her recording career. The winner will join BORCHETTA’s Record label roster of superstar talent, including TAYLOR SWIFT, TIM MCGRAW, REBA, RASCAL FLATTS and FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE.

The Season XIV mentor role was re-imagined and stepped up to provide BORCHETTA’s unique perspective from early on in the competition – through the live shows, to the final winning moment and beyond. Borchetta joined IDOL during Hollywood Week, when he watched the performances in advance of offering his expertise to the contestants who continue in the competition.

“There’s only one reason I’m doing this: AMERICAN IDOL has proven again and again that it can launch superstars. I believe that working with these young artists the same way we work with new artists at the Big Machine Label Group will help the next AMERICAN IDOL be as prepared as possible to continue the tradition of creating new superstars,” said BORCHETTA. “The entire label group will be invested and we look forward to bringing our energy, focus and know-how to help develop this young talent at the highest levels.”

“This season Jennifer, Keith and Harry have found some truly talented singers, and the addition of Scott’s expertise in how to develop an artist gives our contestants a unique shot at success,” said Trish Kinane, President of Entertainment, Fremantle Media North America and executive producer, AMERICAN IDOL. “It’s been terrific to see Scott’s enthusiasm as he watched each of the performances at Hollywood Week and we can’t wait for America to see our hopefuls transform into superstars.”

“AMERICAN IDOL has been directly responsible for creating more music stars and selling more music than any other TV show in history. We are thrilled to partner with Scott and Universal Music Group to continue that tradition. Our contestants have the greatest platform ever created to become music superstars. They deserve the best and, again, they will get it,” said Jason Morey, EVP and World Wide Head of Music, 19 Entertainment.

“I’m stoked,” said David Hill, Senior Executive Vice President, 21st Century Fox.

“The greatest legacy of AMERICAN IDOL is that we produce legitimate stars,” said creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “Over the years, not only have we made more stars than any other talent show in the world, we have also provided the very best people from the music industry to guide our singers and offer valuable advice. This year, we are thrilled to have one of the music industry's shining lights take on the role of mentor for our talent, overseeing their journey right through to the recording and release of the winner's album. Scott Borchetta is enjoying unparalleled success right now. Not only did he mastermind the incredible career of Taylor Swift, but also countless other incredible artists. We are extremely proud to have him on the AMERICAN IDOL team.”

BORCHETTA has been lauded as the modern day “music mogul” by Rolling Stone. Millions of fans know him as the man who discovered Taylor Swift and helped her ascend to global superstardom. With the recent launch of Swift’s first pop album, “1989,” Borchetta not only helped Swift garner 1.2 million album sales in the first week, but cemented her as the only solo female artist to succeed across multiple genres, and with three albums debuting with sales over one million copies. In addition to Swift, BORCHETTA has developed and signed more than 30 music acts, including Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Reba, The Band Perry and Florida Georgia Line. BORCHETTA is responsible for helping various artists achieve more than 400 million album sales and sending more than 155 songs to No.1 through his career. He has a unique ability to cultivate talent and propel them to worldwide success. BORCHETTA’s Big Machine Label Group is the No. 1 independent record label in the world, based on sales and radio airplay. Under his leadership, BMLG artists have won multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards. Borchetta freely pushes standard record label boundaries, preferring to view his label as a content company, and has moved the group beyond music, toward complete cultural saturation.
 
AMERICAN IDOL XIV returns with a special, two-night, three-hour premiere event Wednesday, Jan. 7 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) and Thursday, Jan. 8 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. Featuring host Ryan Seacrest and judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr., the fun starts when the competition launches its search for America’s next superstar with auditions from Kansas City, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Orleans, New York and San Francisco.

AMERICAN IDOL XIV is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. “Like” AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion using #idol. See photos and videos on Instagram by following @AmericanIdol.

REBA, BROOKS & DUNN ANNOUNCE "TOGETHER IN VEGAS" AT THE COLOSSEUM AT CAESARS PALACE 

 Country Music Powerhouses Begin Residency June 24, 2015

Superstar entertainers Reba, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn will join forces to launch a one-of-a-kind Country music residency –  REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Vegas – opening June 24, 2015 at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Tickets for select performances in 2015 go on-sale tomorrow, Dec. 4, at 10A PT.
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Presented jointly by Caesars Palace and AEG Live, the initial dates announced for 2015 are:
June: 24, 26, 27
July: 1, 3, 4
Dec.: 2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 12
Tickets for REBA, BROOKS & DUNN: Together in Vegas, may be purchased in person at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace Box Office, by calling 866-320-9763 or online at thecolosseum.com or axs.com. Orders are subject to additional service charges and fees. Ticket prices are $205/ $155/ $105/ $85/ $59.50 (prices include 10% Live Entertainment Tax). For groups of 10 or more, call 866-574-3851. All shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
As a multi-media entertainment mogul, Reba has become a household name with a successful career that spans across music, television, film, theater and retail industries. She has achieved a rare pinnacle with 35 #1 singles and over 56 million albums sold worldwide, all garnering her a spot in the upper echelon of #1 albums in the Country genre. Both leading trade outlets for touring, Pollstar and Billboard's Boxscore, named Reba the #1 female Country touring artist with a total of over nine million tickets sold. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame inductee has won 15 American Music Awards, 13 Academy of Country Music Awards, nine People's Choice Awards, seven Country Music Association Awards, two GRAMMY Awards, an ACM Career Achievement Honor and was recently named the first-ever American Country Countdown Awards' NASH icon, in addition to receiving the National Artistic Achievement Award from the U.S. Congress. The Oklahoma native is also an acclaimed actress with 11 movie credits to her name, including "Tremors," "North" and "The Little Rascals." In 2001, she made her Broadway debut in Irving Berlin's "Annie Get Your Gun," which The New York Times hailed, "without qualification the best performance by an actress in a musical comedy this season." She has starred in the six-season eponymous sitcom "Reba" (WB Television Network/The CW) and "Malibu Country" (ABC). Reba most recently became the inaugural signing on Nash Icon Music, an innovative new joint venture label between Big Machine Label Group and Cumulus. She is back in the studio recording her first new music in over five years with long-time producer Tony Brown and is collaborating for the first time with James Stroud, blending their unique approaches and multi-platinum career success. http://reba.com/
Superstar duo Brooks & Dunn released their first album in 1991, a blockbuster that delivered four #1 singles – the first of 23 chart-toppers in a career that's seen Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn become the best-selling duo in country music history. Hits like "Boot Scootin' Boogie," "My Maria," "Only in America," and "Believe" have propelled Brooks & Dunn to more than 30 million albums sold, as the duo has amassed more than 80 industry awards, including two GRAMMY awards, 20 Country Music Association trophies, and 27 Academy of Country Music honors, making them the most-awarded act in ACM history. Named Entertainer of the Year four times collectively by the ACM and CMA, Brooks & Dunn consistently remained among country's most popular touring acts, a testament both to their showmanship and to their status as one of the true bedrock artists of country music. For more information, visit www.brooksanddunn.com.
About AEG LiveAEG Live, the live-entertainment division of Los Angeles-based AEG, is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performance.  AEG Live is comprised of touring, festival and special event divisions, seventeen regional offices and owns, operates or exclusively books thirty-five state-of-the-art venues.  The current and recent concert tour roster includes artists such as Alicia Keys, Bruno Mars, Bon Jovi, Carrie Underwood, Cher, Ed Sheeran, Enrique Iglesias, George Strait, Hunter Hayes, J Cole, Jennifer Lopez, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Katy Perry, Kenny Chesney, Leonard Cohen, Paul McCartney, Pitbull, The Rolling Stones, Taylor Swift, The WHO, Trey Songz and Juanes.  The company is also currently producing residency shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas including Celine Dion, Shania Twain and Rod Stewart and is the exclusive promoter at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas.  AEG Live is also the largest producer of music festivals in North America from the critically acclaimed Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival to Stagecoach Country Music Festival and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. www.aeglive.com
About Caesars PalaceWorld-renowned Las Vegas hotel and casino, Caesars Palace features 3,960 hotel guest rooms and suites, including the brand new 181-room Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace and Forbes Star Award-winning The Laurel Collection by Caesars Palace. The 85-acre resort offers 25 diverse dining options including celebrity chef-branded restaurants by Gordon Ramsay, Bobby Flay, Nobu Matsuhisa and Guy Savoy, the award-winning Bacchanal Buffet, nearly 130,000 square-feet of casino space, a five-acre Garden of the Gods pool oasis and the luxurious Qua Baths & Spa. The Forum Shops at Caesars showcases more than 160 boutiques and restaurants and the 4,300-seat Colosseum spotlights world-class entertainers.

REBA, BROOKS & DUNN ANNOUNCE “TOGETHER IN VEGAS” AT THE COLOSSEUM AT CAESARS PALACE

REBA, BROOKS & DUNN ANNOUNCE “TOGETHER IN VEGAS” AT THE COLOSSEUM AT CAESARS PALACE

New Date and Tickets Released for  The Polar Express™ Train Ride  December 10 Excursions at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.  On Sale Now Enter to Win Four Tickets in New Facebook Contest

Due to overwhelming demand, St. Louis Union Station announces that a new date for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is being released for sale. The new excursion date is Wednesday, December 10 for trains departing at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase now at www.STLPolarExpressRide.com. Tickets are priced at $38 and $68 for coach and first class. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ train ride runs from St. Louis Union Station on select dates through December 30, 2014. WIN TICKETS TO THE POLAR EXPRESS Want to win four tickets on the December 10 Polar Express excursion? Check out the St. Louis Union Station Hotel's Facebook page to take part in a new Family Holiday Photo Contest.  HOLIDAY DINNER ADVENTURE MEALS Inside St. Louis Union Station, adult and children's themed dinner buffets -- where guests meet characters including the Conductor, Santa's elves and the Chef -- will be served in the Grand Hall each excursion evening to coordinate with train departure times.  Polar Express evenings will end with an elaborate Holiday Dessert Buffet at 10 p.m. Guests without Polar Express train ride tickets also may enjoy the character buffets and light shows in the Grand Hall as well as Holiday Magic entertainment and events at St. Louis Union Station.  The themed Holiday Dinner Adventure buffets are priced at just $15 per person. A $25 First Class ticket includes a commemorative Polar Express mug. Reservations are available at STLPolarExpressRide.com.  A 3-D Panoramic Light Show featuring scenes from The Polar Express movie will play on Union Station's Grand Hall ceiling on all excursion dates during the holiday dinners.  NEW YEAR'S EVE WITH THE POLAR EXPRESS On December 31, a family friendly Polar Express New Year's Eve package will be available at St. Louis Union Station. The package includes hotel accommodations, a screening of The Polar Express movie, adult and children's buffets, games and activities, ice carving, a Midnight children's present drop and breakfast the next morning.  MORE INFORMATION: Learn more about the Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station here at www.STLPolarExpressRide.com.