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UPDATED: Lil Nas X’s First Single Away from “Old Town Road” Project, “Holiday,” Is an Expensive Flop That Hasn’t Charted

Roger Friedman
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UPDATED: Lil Nas X’s First Single Away from “Old Town Road” Project, “Holiday,” Is an Expensive Flop That Hasn’t Charted

UPDATE: November 21st– “Holiday” finished the week with 69,000 sales equivalent in streaming. Total downloads were 3,600.

NOVEMBER 18TH: Lil Nas X ruled the charts in 2019 with “Old Town Road,” his country music-rap mashup hit that sold and sold and sold. “Old Town Road” was on the charts, mostly at number 1, for months on end. The song used a little known sample from Nine Inch Nails, blended country and rap, and then went through the roof when Nas re-recorded it with another novelty song survivor, Billy Ray Cyrus, of “Achy Breaky Heart” fame.

Novelty hits are painful for the artist, who can never break away from that one mega hit that comes to define them. Carly Rae Jepsen had that with “Call Me Maybe.” Vanessa Carlton ditto with “A Thousand Miles.” Whole books and podcasts and radio shows are devoted to one-hit wonders.

But now Lil Nas X is staring down that same stigma. Last Friday he released his first single since the “Old Town Road” project finally calmed down. One hopes that he’s independently wealthy for like after all that fuss. He may need the money.

The new single, “Holiday,” is accompanied by an expensive video. That’s not good since the song has not broken the top 100 on iTunes. It’s a short single, two minutes and 47 seconds. It’s catchy enough but so far has gained no traction. That’s not a good sign. From Friday through Monday, “Holiday” has garnered only 3,600 streaming equivalent sales.

Of course, on You Tube, the video has attracted over 18,300,000 views. What that means exactly is unclear, except that Lil Nas X (real name Montero Lamar Hill) was smart to make parodies of movies like “Back to the Future” as part of this short but high budget project.

Let’s hope Lil Nas has something better up his sleeve for a real non holiday release, and soon. Otherwise, he may stuck forever on that Old Town Road.

Barack Obama Memoirs “A Promised Land” Sells 890,000 Copies on First Day, Donald Trump Junior’s Book Sold 12,000 Copies Total

Roger Friedman
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Barack Obama Memoirs “A Promised Land” Sells 890,000 Copies on First Day, Donald Trump Junior’s Book Sold 12,000 Copies Total

“A Promised Land,” the long awaited first volume of Barack Obama’s memoirs, sold 890,000 copies on Tuesday, its first full day available.

And get this: the 764 page tome retails for $45. This is no dime store novel. It’s number 1 in hardcover, on Kindle, and from audible books.

Penguin Random House says that’s an all time high for any book on one day in its combined 2,000 year history. The number 2 spot is held by Michelle Obama for her memoir, “Becoming.”

Meantime, Donald Trump Junior’s latest book has sold 12,000 copies according to Bookscan. It’s number 6,0002 on Amazon.com. Junior is running contests to unload copies at a discount on his website.

Barack’s book should pass 1 million today or tomorrow at the latest. He and Michelle were paid $65 million jointly for their book advances. The deal was considered the biggest ever, but it will pay off handsomely for the company with paperback sales and other editions, ancillary rights and so on that will continue for years.

Trump Junior’s book, called “Liberal Privilege,” is available by the yard, from Kimberly Guilfoyle’s garage.

 

 

Warner Bros. Comes to a “Wonder Woman 1984” Compromise: Theaters and HBO Max on Christmas Day

Roger Friedman
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Warner Bros. Comes to a “Wonder Woman 1984” Compromise: Theaters and HBO Max on Christmas Day

Warner Bros. has come to a Solomonic decision about Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman 1984.” It will open on Christmas Day both in theaters and on HBO Max.

The pandemic has forced them do it, there was no way they could hold it anymore. And with many states having closed theaters, and COVID spreading, this was a wise move. See it at home or see it in the theaters.

Jenkins has posted a couple of notices on Twitter. One is below. The other is “We have plans to hold it in theaters for quite a long time, and hopefully long enough that it will still be there when theaters all over the world ARE open.”

Something to look forward to on December 25th. I will watch it at home. And see it again on the big screen when there’s a vaccine.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes First COVID-19 Test for Self-Testing at Home

Roger Friedman
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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes First COVID-19 Test for Self-Testing at Home

Great news from the FDA, we can all use this ASAP, especially with the rise of cases and the shutdown again of NYC schools:

from the FDA:

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the first COVID-19 diagnostic test for self-testing at home and that provides rapid results. The Lucira COVID-19 All-In-One Test Kit is a molecular (real-time loop mediated amplification reaction) single use test that is intended to detect the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19.

“The FDA continues to demonstrate its unprecedented speed in response to the pandemic. While COVID-19 diagnostic tests have been authorized for at-home collection, this is the first that can be fully self-administered and provide results at home. This new testing option is an important diagnostic advancement to address the pandemic and reduce the public burden of disease transmission,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. “Today’s action underscores the FDA’s ongoing commitment to expand access to COVID-19 testing.”

The Lucira COVID-19 All-In-One Test Kit test has been authorized for home use with self-collected nasal swab samples in individuals age 14 and older who are suspected of COVID-19 by their health care provider. It is also authorized for use in point-of-care (POC) settings (e.g., doctor’s offices, hospitals, urgent care centers and emergency rooms) for all ages but samples must be collected by a healthcare provider when the test is used at the POC to test individuals younger than 14 years old. The test is currently authorized for prescription use only.

The test works by swirling the self-collected sample swab in a vial that is then placed in the test unit. In 30 minutes or less, the results can be read directly from the test unit’s light-up display that shows whether a person is positive or negative for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Positive results indicate the presence of SARS-CoV-2. Individuals with positive results should self-isolate and seek additional care from their health care provider. Individuals who test negative and experience COVID-like symptoms should follow up with their health care provider as negative results do not preclude an individual from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

“Today’s authorization for a complete at-home test is a significant step toward FDA’s nationwide response to COVID-19. A test that can be fully administered entirely outside of a lab or healthcare setting has always been a major priority for the FDA to address the pandemic. Now, more Americans who may have COVID-19 will be able to take immediate action, based on their results, to protect themselves and those around them,” said Jeff Shuren, M.D., J.D., director of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “We look forward to proactively working with test developers to support the availability of more at-home test options.”

An important component to successful at-home testing is the ability to efficiently track and monitor results. As noted in this EUA, prescribing health care providers are required to report all test results they receive from individuals who use the test to their relevant public health authorities in accordance with local, state and federal requirements. Lucira Health, the test manufacturer, has also developed box labeling, quick reference instructions and health care provider instructions to assist with reporting.

Diagnostic testing remains one of the pillars of our nation’s response to COVID-19. The FDA continues its public health commitment to pursue new approaches that help make critical tests available to more Americans through EUA authority.

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

CBS Powerhouse “NCIS” Finally Showing Wear After 17 Seasons: Premiere Loses 3.4 Million Viewers Since End of Last Season

Roger Friedman
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CBS Powerhouse “NCIS” Finally Showing Wear After 17 Seasons: Premiere Loses 3.4 Million Viewers Since End of Last Season

Is the juggernaut known as “NCIS” finally losing steam after 17 seasons?

Last night’s Season 18 premiere brought in a very healthy 10 million viewers that any other show would be thrilled with.

But that’s 3.4 million fewer — or 25% less than — the Season 17 finale last April, which had 13.4 million. It’s also 13% below the Season 17 average of 11.6 million.

On top of that, it’s 20% lower than the 12.6 million season 17 premiere a year ago.

What’s wrong? “NCIS” is old, Mark Harmon ran out of facial expressions a decade ago, and there are just so many Naval mysteries and murders left to tell. The whole “NCIS” franchise is looking shopworn, with “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “New Orleans” slowing down as well. Plus, in the case of “Los Angeles,” star Linda Hunt– who believe it or not is 75 years young– has been AWOL. There are rumors she’s leaving the show, which would be terrible since she’s the only reason those late night reruns are watchable.

The “NCIS” mothership has itself lost a lot of beloved characters, including those played by Pauley Perrette and David McCallum. Maria Bello, who’s been there for a couple of seasons, is leaving to return to films, I hope. Plus there’s been a lot of negative publicity over the last several years, particularly in Perrette’s case.

But with 10 million viewers, “NCIS” is still considered a hit. And I’m sure CBS will ensure that it makes the 20th anniversary mark.

 

Michelle Obama Reflects: “Donald Trump had spread racist lies about my husband that had put my family in danger. That wasn’t something I was ready to forgive”

Roger Friedman
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Michelle Obama Reflects: “Donald Trump had spread racist lies about my husband that had put my family in danger. That wasn’t something I was ready to forgive”

Well, I’m just swimming through Barack Obama’s amazing autobiography, “A Promised Land.” Can only it be four years ago that our president was erudite, witty, smart, funny, intelligent? His book has almost no “gossip.” He mentions few celebrities, and when he does, it’s in passing. He keeps everything on a high level, and still it’s all fascinating.

Michelle Obama has weighed in this week on Instagram on her feelings about the last four years. I wanted everyone to read this. She’s the classiest act going.

“This week, I’ve been reflecting a lot on where I was four years ago. Hillary Clinton had just been dealt a tough loss by a far closer margin than the one we’ve seen this year. I was hurt and disappointed—but the votes had been counted and Donald Trump had won. The American people had spoken. And one of the great responsibilities of the presidency is to listen when they do. So my husband and I instructed our staffs to do what George and Laura Bush had done for us: run a respectful, seamless transition of power—one of the hallmarks of American democracy. We invited the folks from the president-elect’s team into our offices and prepared detailed memos for them, offering what we’d learned over the past eight years.

“I have to be honest and say that none of this was easy for me. Donald Trump had spread racist lies about my husband that had put my family in danger. That wasn’t something I was ready to forgive. But I knew that, for the sake of our country, I had to find the strength and maturity to put my anger aside. So I welcomed Melania Trump into the White House and talked with her about my experience, answering every question she had—from the heightened scrutiny that comes with being First Lady to what it’s like to raise kids in the White House.

“I knew in my heart it was the right thing to do—because our democracy is so much bigger than anybody’s ego. Our love of country requires us to respect the results of an election even when we don’t like them or wish it had gone differently—the presidency doesn’t belong to any one individual or any one party. To pretend that it does, to play along with these groundless conspiracy theories—whether for personal or political gain—is to put our country’s health and security in danger. This isn’t a game. So I want to urge all Americans, especially our nation’s leaders, regardless of party, to honor the electoral process and do your part to encourage a smooth transition of power, just as sitting presidents have done throughout our history.”

RIP Legendary Recording Engineer Bruce Swedien, 86, Worked with Michael Jackson On Most of His Hits

Roger Friedman
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RIP Legendary Recording Engineer Bruce Swedien, 86, Worked with Michael Jackson On Most of His Hits

I am really sorry to hear the news that Bruce Swedien has died at age 86 from COVID. He was a brilliant recording engineer, the man who made those Michael Jackson-Quincy Jones hits happen. He was also a good friend to me when I was writing about Michael, especially right after Michael died and there was wild speculation about what was unreleased.

Condolences to Bruce’s friends and family and fans, and there were many.

Siedah Garrett, who wrote “Man in the Mirror,” and sang “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” with Michael on the “Bad” album, wrote on Twitter: “No words to express how sad I am at losing my dear friend Bruce Swedien, who has been with me from the beginning of my career. Sending love, prayers & condolences to wife Bea, daughter Roberta, and to his fans around the world. Brucie, you will never, ever be gone from our hearts”

From 1956 through around 1970, Bruce worked mostly in jazz, with the likes of Art Blakey, Dinah Washington, Ramsey Lewis, and on Buddy Miles’s classic “Them Changes.” He was in the production booth for Muddy Waters, all those incredible The Chi-Lites records, Eddie Harris, and engineer for Natalie Cole’s breakthrough album, “Inseparable.” It’s Bruce’s name on Tyrone Davis’s monster hit. “Turn Back the Hands of Time.”

He started working with Quincy Jones in 1977 on the “Roots” TV soundtrack. With Michael Jackson was involved in “The Wiz” soundtrack in ’78, and 1979 brought “Off the Wall.” For most of the next 20 years or so, Bruce was wrapped with Michael, with Quincy’s other projects, Patti Austin, James Ingram, George Benson, and all their hits. (“Give Me the Night” by George Benson, one of many outstanding records.)

Bruce’s talent lay in his sonics, the way he could make even a funk record sound warm. Those Michael Jackson songs people will dance to hearing just the opening, like “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” or “Wanna Be Starting Something,” somehow Bruce knew the magic ingredients. Working with Quincy Jones, they found a groove no one else had ever used, and every one felt deep in their souls.

I am so sorry this is the way things ended for Bruce. In  June 2009, he and Frank DiLeo were the only ones I could turn to on a daily basis who knew anything true about Michael’s work life. There was so much misinformation and garbage being floated in every tabloid. I would always go back to Bruce and ask, Are you sure about this? or that? He was. He was just incredibly helpful during a difficult time and I will never forget that.

Quincy Jones writes on Facebook: “I am absolutely devastated to learn the news that we lost my dear brother-in-arms, the legendary Bruce Swedien. There are not enough words to express how much Bruce meant to me…He was without question the absolute best engineer in the business, & for more than 70 years I wouldn’t even think about going into a recording session unless I knew Bruce was behind the board. Along with the late great Rod Temperton, we reached heights that we could have never imagined & made history together. I have always said it’s no accident that more than four decades later no matter where I go in the world, in every club, like clockwork at the witching hour you hear “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Wanna Be Starting Something,” & “Thriller.” That was the sonic genius of Bruce Swedien, & to this day I can hear artists trying to replicate him. I’m going to miss your presence every single day “Svensk”, but I will cherish every moment we shared together laughin’, lovin’, livin’, & givin’…Rest In Peace my brother.”

Everyone will feature Michael Jackson records in their tributes. Let me make my tribute to Bruce Swedien Natalie Cole’s “This Will Be,” a record for all time.

 

 

Ivanka Trump Joins Parler, Invites Her Twitter Followers to Follow Her On Right-Wing, Hate Filled Social Media

Roger Friedman
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Ivanka Trump Joins Parler, Invites Her Twitter Followers to Follow Her On Right-Wing, Hate Filled Social Media

Is there any question that Ivanka Trump is complicit and hateful? She’s invited her Twitter followers to follow her on Parler, the social media platform for right wingers, crazy conspiracy theorists, and nut jobs. She’s stated her case clearly. Parler is funded by Rebekah Mercer of the wealthy right wing Mercer family. Ivanka does nothing without an ulterior motive, so her move to Parler has something to do with money and the Mercers. She and Jared Kushner will never be able to return to Manhattan life if they’re going this route, that’s for sure. But something tells me Ivanka will need Mercer money to effect her China business deals in the next year.

Ivanka joins the ranks of other crazies like Ted Cruz, Sean Hannity, Kim Guilfoyle, Kirstie Alley, Devin Nunes, and Dinesh D’Souza. Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke, Alex Jones’ conspiracy website Infowars, and anti-immigration site VDARE are all members. So you get where Ivanka wants to meet her new friends. Idiot former TV host John Tesh just joined this week.

iTunes Top 10 R&B 2020: Commercials Propel Oldies by Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Bill Withers, Solomon Burke

Roger Friedman
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iTunes Top 10 R&B 2020: Commercials Propel Oldies by Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Bill Withers, Solomon Burke

Not one but two versions of an  R^B classic written by Valerie Simpson and her late husband Nik Ashford are in the iTunes top 10 R&B today.

The song is “You’re All I Need to Get By,” recorded first by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1968. It went to number 1 on the R&B charts and 7 on the pop charts. It’s never stopped being played on the radio or selling. But the current Wal Mart commercial featuring Aretha Franklin’s cover is on TV and radio constantly. Consequently, both versions are now in the chart.

Aretha’s version, which can be heard in the commercial, was recorded as a single in 1971 and later collected for “Aretha’s Greatest Hits”  that year. It went top 20 and became a staple of her shows and future greatest hits compilations. While we’re waiting until 2021 for the movie “Respect” and the TV series, “Genius,” it’s a thrill to hear Aretha so often every day.

Also in top 10 are Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day,” which is featured in an omnipresent AllState commercial. “Lovely Day” was never the hit on the same magnitude as “Lean on Me” or “Ain’t No Sunshine,” but over the years it’s grown and grown. The song sounds particularly good in this commercial.

Solomon Burke’s “Cry to Me” rounds out the four classics in the top 10. I’m not sure why– maybe someone can tell me. It must be in a commercial or somewhere on TV. Solomon was quite a guy and quite a performer. Large and in charge, he traveled with a famous gold throne as his mobility decreased. But he was still a powerhouse of a singer.

One other song that floats in and out of the R&B top 10 is Sam & Dave’s “Hold On, I’m Coming.” It was used in two big commercials in the last year, and is a welcome presence when it turns up.

Pretty cool that these wonderful artists are sharing the top 10 with The Weeknd, Aloe Blacc, Andra Day, and other whippersnappers!

Dolly Parton — Newly Minted Vaccine Hero– Will Have Her Hit Songs Featured in Bobby Cannavale-Rose Byrne Musical Film

Roger Friedman
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Dolly Parton — Newly Minted Vaccine Hero– Will Have Her Hit Songs Featured in Bobby Cannavale-Rose Byrne Musical Film

It’s Dolly Parton Week, which is never a bad thing!

You may have heard that Dolly contributed a million bucks to Vanderbilt University for vaccine research. They came up with the new COVID vaccine from Moderna. So Dolly is saving our lives!

Now comes news that Dolly’s music– her hit songs– will be featured in a new movie starring Bobby Cannavale and Rose Byrne (who are either married or domiciled and have a baby).

The movie is called “Seriously Red,” and it’s currently filming in Australia directed by Gracie Otto from a script by co-star Krew Boykan. ArcLight Films will handle worldwide distribution.

 

We always celebrate Dolly! Hope the film turns out ok!

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