Check out the latest happenings around the music world…
- Rihanna has been confirmed as one of the first selected artists to hit the stage at this year’s Grammy Awards. She will be joined by Taylor Swift, The Black Keys, fun., and Mumford & Sons at the 55th annual event. This time around, the “Diamonds” singer is nominated for three awards which include Best Pop Solo Performance (“Where Have You Been”), Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (“Talk That Talk” featuring Jay-Z) and Best Short Form Music Video (“We Found Love”). The 2013 Grammy Awards air live Sunday, Feb. 10 at 8 p.m. EST on CBS.
- The 2013 BET Honors announced its roster of performers for this year’s event as well. Erykah Badu, Wayne Brady, Brandy, Mint Condition, Jimmy Jam, Alicia Keys, Ledisi, the SOS Band and Terry Lewis will all be in attendance to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of the chosen honorees. Chaka Khan, Halle Berry, Lisa Leslie, Bishop T.D. Jakes and legendary music executive Clarence Avant will be recognized for their achievements in their respective careers, as actress Gabrielle Union serves as host. The 2013 BET Honors will take place at the Warner Theater in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 12 and will air Feb. 11.
- According to Mariah Carey, her beef with fellow American Idol judge Nicki Minaj has been squashed. In a recent interview with Barbara Walters, the 42-year-old diva said that while there were a few bumps in the road (like viral jewel), the two have settled their issues and are focused on the talent. “For me, ultimately this is about the kids, the contestants,” Carey said. “I’ve been blessed to live my dream more than half my life. So, I want to help give that back to someone else.” At the 2013 Winter TCA tour in Pasadena, Calif. on Tuesday, Carey once again addressed the heated dispute and fallout, stating, “Time heals all wounds.”
- After causing quite a stir earlier this month with her views on same-sex marriage and the legalization of marijuana, Fantasia is getting back to the music with her fourth studio album, The Side Effects. The American Idol alum revealed the new project, due March 13, during an interview with Steve Harvey. “It’s my baby ’cause I finally got to write,” she said, describing the album as “rock-soul.” Listen to Fantasia’s lead single “Lose to Win” below!
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