Rihanna has reportedly signed up to be a mentor on the US ‘X Factor’

The pop beauty is set to help judge L.A. Reid choose his final four acts after Simon Cowell was so impressed with the ‘Only Girl (In The World)’ hitmaker’s performance on the UK version of his talent show last year.

Mariah Carey will also be acting as a guest mentor on the series.

A source told The Sun newspaper: “Simon loves Rihanna and loved having her on the UK show last year – so it’s no surprise he wants her back.

“He hasn’t officially announced her yet as he loves keeping everyone guessing. But fans are already getting excited.”

The 23-year-old singer was rumoured to be in the running for a place on the judging panel, but she did not make the final line-up – which is comprised of L.A., Simon, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger.

The 51-year-old music mogul – who left the UK ‘X Factor’ last year to concentrate on his judging role on the new American show – recently branded a performance on the upcoming series “utterly s**t” during a short preview of competition, and he added: “I am hating this. It’s gotta go.”

Simon admitted he was close to walking off the set, but explained his boot camp rant was because of poor sound.

He said: “There were about 90 contestants and everything went wrong. It wasn’t their fault.

“It’s the meltdown of all meltdowns. I wasn’t afraid to say, ‘This is a shambles.’

“We’re going to show the good, bad and ugly bits. And there are lots of ugly bits.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Mel C has blasted Rihanna for being too sexual in her videos and on stage

The former Spice Girls singer – who has a two-year-old daughter Scarlet with boyfriend Thomas Starr – has grown increasingly concerned about “inappropriate” imagery in the music business and believes the ‘California King Bed’ hitmaker’s behaviour is too graphic for her younger fans.

In an interview with the Daily Mirror newspaper, she said: “People have to take some responsibility because we’ve got to a point where the over-sexualisation of young children has gone too far. I think music is a big part of that. Women in music are extremely sexual and they have young fans. It is inappropriate.

“Rihanna has a responsibility and although culture’s always changing, it’s changed too much. It needs to be dealt with. It’s reached saturation point, we owe it to our kids to protect them.”

Mel believes Rihanna makes many of her X-rated artistic decisions – which have included her whipping reporters, dressing in a leather bikini and being tied up in her ‘S&M’ video, which was banned in 11 countries because of its sexual content – because she isn’t a mother herself.

The 37-year-old singer – who is about to release her new solo album ‘The Sea’ – added: “I love Rihanna, I think she’s a f***ing brilliant artist, with great songs, a great record and she looks fantastic … but she’s not a mum. Maybe if she becomes one she’ll feel different. I hope so anyway.”

Mel and her Spice Girls bandmates – Victoria Beckham, Geri Halliwell, Mel B and Emma Bunton – were criticised in the late 90s for being too sexual for their young fans, but the star insists they would always censor themselves if they felt something was wrong.

She said: “It’s a long time ago since the Spice Girls were first together and we were criticised for being sexual. Yes we wore crop tops, look how much has changed, but we always sat down as a group and if somebody felt something was inappropriate for our young fans, we did something about it. I think that’s something young people in the music industry today, like Rihanna, should do now.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna has “bombarded” Joe Jonas with “raunchy texts”

The ‘S&M’ singer is reportedly pursuing the squeaky clean pop star – famed for wearing a purity ring – by sending him suggestive messages.

A source told the Daily Star newspaper: “They met when Joe did a song with Rihanna’s ex Chris Brown and recently she’s been bombarding him with raunchy text messages.

“She keeps laughing to her mates that she wants to take him one the wildest ride of his life.”

Joe, 21, has been out with a number of beautiful women, including ‘Twilight’ star Ashley Greene, Demi Lovato and Taylor Swift, but recently revealed he is single and is “always looking for the right person”.

Rihanna, 23, makes no secret of her sexual urges, and recently said she likes to be “dominated” in the bedroom.

She said: “I play a very dominant role in my life, in every aspect of it. And I like to feel like a lady still, at some point.

“I feel like that’s the time when a guy really gets to be a man, and I get to be a woman. And if I’m being a man in the bedroom too, there’s nothing really in it for me.”

The ‘What’s My Name’ hitmaker is single at the moment, but has this year been romantically linked to rapper Drake, baseball player Matt Kemp and also rumoured to have rekindled her romance with her first boyfriend Negus Sealy.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna likes to be dominated in the bedroom

The ‘S&M’ hitmaker – who is currently single – is happy to be forthright and forceful in her everyday life, but says when it comes to sex, she wants to be treated “like a lady”.

Explaining why she likes a man to take charge, she said: “I play a very dominant role in my life, in every aspect of it. And I like to feel like a lady still, at some point.

“I feel like that’s the time when a guy really gets to be a man, and I get to be a woman. And if I’m being a man in the bedroom too, there’s nothing really in it for me.”

The red-haired beauty also spoke of her frustration that she can’t act like a “rock star” and have more fun in her career because she is a role model for many young girls.

She told the September issue of America’s Glamour magazine: “I want to set the right example and, at the same time, live my life….I feel like pop stars can’t be rock stars anymore because they have to be role models, and it takes the fun out of it for us, because we just want to have fun with art.”

However, the 23-year-old pop superstar admits her image now is much more how she wants it to be than it was when she first shot to fame six years ago.

She explained: “In the beginning of my career, it was really strict for me. I couldn’t wear pink or red lipstick; it was just bizarre. We had a young fan base, and they were trying to keep me fresh. But I just really wanted to be myself. I wanted to be sassy, the attitude, all these things that I am.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna is “open to love”

The ‘California King Bed’ hitmaker explained while she is ready for romance, she wants a man to “earn” her affections because she is well aware they enjoy the chase in a new relationship.

She said: “I’m open to love. But guys should have to earn it. Because the minute they get it, they want something else.

“Men are like hunters; they like the chase. So you have to keep ’em guessing. Actually, I’m like that too. I get bored quickly. So if someone can make me laugh, that’s the best.”

Despite her willingness to find love, the 23-year-old singer – who was assaulted by her then-boyfriend Chris Brown in 2009 – admitted she finds it difficult to express her softer side.

In an interview with Britain’s Cosmopolitan magazine, she explained: “For me, it’s tougher to
be vulnerable than to be tough.”

However, Rihanna conceded she can be an “intimidating” prospect for men.

She added: “It can definitely be intimidating to guys to date someone in this industry. And it’s really hard to find a guy who doesn’t care about that stuff.

“Right now, it’s easier just having my career to focus on.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

BET Awards 2011 full list of winners:

Viewers’ Choice:

‘Look at Me Now,’ Chris Brown, featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes

Male R&B artist:

Chris Brown

Female R&B artist:

Rihanna

Male hip-hop artist:

Kanye West

Female hip-hop artist:

Nicki Minaj

Collaboration:

‘Look at Me Now,’ Chris Brown, featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes

New artist:

Wiz Khalifa

Group:

Diddy-Dirty Money

Video of the year:

‘Look at Me Now,’ Chris Brown, featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes

Video director the year:

Chris Robinson

Young Star (tie):

Willow and Jaden Smith

Actor:

Idris Elba

Actress:

Taraji P. Henson

Movie:

‘For Colored Girls’

Gospel:

Mary Mary

Centric:

Marsha Ambrosius

Sportsman :

Michael Vick

Sportswoman:

Serena Williams

International act (UK):

Tinie Tempah

International act (Africa) (tie):

2Face Idibia (Nigeria), D’Banj (Nigeria)

Rihanna has been named a tourism ambassador for Barbados

The ‘S&M’ singer – who was born on the Caribbean island – has joined forces with the country’s tourism authority because she wants people to experience the “spirit and warmth” of her fellow Barbadians.

Rihanna said: “Barbados is a place like no other and one of the reasons for this is the spirit and national pride of our people. I want each and every visitor to this beautiful island to experience what makes this destination different from all others and that is the spirit and warmth of my fellow Barbadians.”

In addition to promoting Barbados worldwide, the 23-year-old singer will kick off her duties by bringing her ‘Loud’ tour to her hometown of Bridgetown in August.

The Barbados Tourism Authority said: “We are proud to announce that musical sensation and social phenomenon Rihanna has partnered with the Barbados Tourism Authority as an exclusive promotional partner for three years. Celebrate this amazing announcement today by joining us on August 5 as she brings her ‘Loud’ tour to Bridgetown, Barbados, her homeland.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Justin Bieber was blocked by security when trying to talk to Rihanna at the Billboard Music Awards on Sunday (22.05.11)

The 17-year-old singer – who was accompanied to the bash by girlfriend Selena Gomez – was reportedly left red-faced after he was prevented from talking to the ‘S&M’ star after he approached her five times at the prestigious event, which took place at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena.

The insider said: “Justin thinks Rihanna is the most beautiful woman and supremely talented.

“He is in awe of her. Justin is just a red-blooded teenager, he can’t help acting like a love-sick puppy dog when he’s around her. “The pair were chatting as Justin’s girlfriend Selena looked on, scowling. Then Rihanna got dragged away by a couple of her friends.

“The pair resumed their chat later but when Justin went to talk to her at the show’s climax her security blocked his path, telling him to ‘leave it’.”

The ‘Baby’ hitmaker was said to be “mortified” at the rebuff because he thought he and Rihanna were friends after talking to her at the BRIT awards earlier this year.

The source added to the Daily Mirror newspaper: “Justin looked mortified – he thought they were buddies.”

However, the teenage singing sensation appears to be over his disappointment as he has jetted off on holiday to Hawaii with Selena.

The pair were spotted arriving in Maui hand-in-hand yesterday (23.05.11) after taking a flight from Los Angeles LAX airport and headed straight to the beach.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna keeps fit by walking through airports

The ‘Rude Boy’ hitmaker keeps her svelte physique toned and trim by “walking for miles” through airports while she is jetting between performances all over the world.

She said: “I keep fit by walking through so many airports. You end up walking for miles in those places!”

The Barbados-born beauty also admitted she loves cooking up hearty, calorific meals – including lasagne and shepherd’s pie – for her friends.

She added: “I love cooking, but I don’t get to do it as often as I would like, because I travel so much. My best friend and I are always cooking together. She will maybe do lasagne or shepherd’s pie.

“Food from Barbados is so different from British food, but we have a lot of things that are similar – such as shepherd’s pie.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna reportedly went on a date with Usher this week

The two singers enjoyed spending time with one another at the Coachella music festival in Los Angeles last weekend and decided to see each other again in New York a few days later.

A source close to Usher said the pair have been friendly for a long time and have shared some “passionate kisses”. They told The Sun newspaper: “They had a really good time together last weekend and wanted to see each other again somewhere private straight after. They’ve known each other for a long time but it’s always been bad timing.

“They’ve had a few long, passionate kisses. There’s definitely a spark between them. “It would have been too obvious to go somewhere in LA and they were both going back to New York for work commitments.” Earlier this year the ‘OMG’ hitmaker declared his musical interest in the ‘S&M’ star, revealing he wanted to record a duet with her.

He said: “Of course I’d do a track with her – hold on! We’ve been friends and our teams work together and we’ve talked about working together in the past, but it could potentially happen. “I would love to work with her – I think she’s an incredible artist.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna doesn’t expect to speak to Chris Brown ever again

The ‘What’s My Name’ hitmaker – who was assaulted by the 21-year-old singer, her then-boyfriend, in 2009 – explained while she recently had the terms of her five-year restraining order against the star relaxed, it doesn’t mean the pair will ever “make up”.

She said: “It doesn’t mean we’re gonna make up, or even talk again. It just means I didn’t want to object to the judge. We don’t have to talk again ever in my life. I just didn’t want to make it more difficult for him professionally.

“What he did to me was a personal thing. It had nothing to do with his career. Saying he has to be a hundred feet away from me, he can’t perform at awards shows, that definitely made it difficult for him. That was the only thing it was going to change, so I didn’t care.”

The 23-year-old singer also admitted while she has come to terms with the fact that she won’t be able to please everyone with the way she handled the situation, it was a “very vulnerable” time in her life and she didn’t want people to feel sorry for her.

Rihanna added to Rolling Stone magazine: “You can never please people. One minute I’m being too hard, and the next minute I’m a fool because I’m not being hard enough.

“I put my guard up so hard. I didn’t want people to see me cry. I didn’t want people to feel bad for me. It was a very vulnerable time in my life, and I refused to let that be the image. I wanted them to see me as, ‘I’m fine, I’m tough.’ I put that up until it felt real.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Chris Brown — ABC Won’t Press Charges

Chris Brown has dodged a bullet after his alleged window-smashing meltdown at “Good Morning America” Tuesday — because network sources tell TMZ …. ABC has decided NOT to press charges.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ … the NYPD will not investigate the matter because there is no complaining victim.

That’s especially good news for CB — because he’s currently on probation for beating up Rihanna …
and could have faced prison time if the judge violated his probation on grounds he committed vandalism.

We’re told the judge will not violate Chris’ probation unless New York prosecutes him … and that’s not going to happen.

No word if Chris will pay for the broken window.

News Source: TMZ

Robin Roberts — Chris Approved My Rihanna Q’s

Robin Roberts asked Chris Brown if she could ask him about the Rihanna incident BEFORE the live interview began on “GMA” this morning … this according to sources connected to the production.

Sources tell TMZ … Roberts insists both she and other “GMA” staff members spoke with Chris before the interview and asked if it would be OK to ask “a few questions” about the Rihanna incident … and Chris approved.

As TMZ first reported, Brown flipped out after the interview — and apparently smashed a window in his dressing room.

Robin is telling people at the show she did NOT try to set him up … and insists, “I’m pulling for the guy.”

As for the broken window, no one in the studio saw Chris throw the chair into the window … but he was definitely in the dressing room when the window was smashed.

News Source: TMZ

Rihanna has been exchanging saucy texts with Colin Farrell

The ‘Only Girl (In the World)‘ singer – who is currently single following her split from baseball star Matt Kemp in December – has reportedly been bombarding the Irish actor with mobile phone messages after the pair met on British TV host Graham Norton’s chat show shortly before Christmas.

An insider told The Sun newspaper: “Colin was taken aback by some of the texts. He thinks he might well be in there. They’re both single, so why not?”

On the show, the 34-year-old star admitted that he couldn’t take his mind off the Bajan beauty’s skimpy dress, which left only her “limbs” on show.

He said: “They are very nice limbs. There’s probably a reason I mentioned them, I had to get them off my mind.”

Colin – who has a 16-month-old son Henry with actress Alicja Bachleda-Curus and seven-year-old James with model Kim Bordenave – is now reportedly planning to meet up with Rihanna, 23, in Los Angeles whenever their hectic schedules allow.

Rihanna recently admitted she was keen to move on from her ex-boyfriend Chris Brown – who was convicted of assaulting her in February 2009 – but finds it “annoying” that people won’t stop asking her about the incident.

She tweeted: “People won’t stop askin abt it! Its f**kin annoying! Nobody wants to relive that, but some ppl can’t respect that!

“I get it, they wanna raise awareness to young girls! But it ends up just makin me look bitter, pitiful, spiteful and angry! (sic)”.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Tinie Tempah and Arcade Fire both scooped two trophies at tonight’s (15.02.11) BRIT Awards

Rapper Tinie took home British Breakthrough Act and British Single for his debut track ‘Pass Out’ – both of which were voted for by the public – while the Canadian indie group won International Album for their record ‘The Suburbs’, as well as International Group. Accepting his first award, Tinie gave a tight hug to presenter Fearne Cotton, before saying: “I got a BRIT Award guys! I want to big up my mum, my family and God – and I want to big up all the fans. Thank you. Biggest Breakthrough baby!”

The 22-year-old later took to the stage to perform a medley of his tracks ‘Written In The Stars’, ‘Miami 2 Ibiza’ and ‘Pass Out’, which saw him joined by producer Labrinth, whom he paid tribute to when picking up his BRIT for ‘Pass Out’, He said: “A second BRIT! I just want to thank Labrinth for being the genius the created the instrumental, Labrinth this one’s for you and me brother, and for UK music, peace and love.”

Arcade fire also performed their track ‘Ready To Start’ at the event, and as they accepted their International Album award, paid tribute to all the UK bands who had influenced them, saying: “We’d like to thank all the British band which changed our lives: New Order, [David] Bowie, Culture Club, Depeche [Mode], The Smiths – Thank you Britain, it’s an honour.”

The biggest single prize of the night, British Album Of The Year, went to folk act Mumford and Sons for their debut album ‘Sigh No More’. Accepting the trophy, they said: “Thank you very much indeed, we’re very humbled, tanks to our families and friends, thank you very much!”

Other winners on the night included Cee Lo Green, who picked up International Male Solo Artist and Plan B, who was named British Male Solo artist. Elsewhere teen sensation Justin Bieber picked up the International Breakthrough trophy, while folk singer Laura Marling was named British Female solo Artist. The awards closed with a special duet between Cee Lo Green and ‘Stone Cold Sober’ singer Paloma Faith, who gave an edited, radio friendly rendition of his track ‘F**k You’.

BRIT Awards 2011, full list of winners:

British Male Solo Arist – Plan B

British Breakthough Act – Tinie Tempah

International Album – Arcade Fire, ‘The Suburbs’

Critic’s Choice – Jessie J

International Male Solo Artist – Cee Lo Green

British Single – Tinie Tempah, ‘Pass Out’

International Group – Arcade Fire

International Breakthrough Act – Justin Bieber

British Female Solo Arist – Laura Marling

International Female – Rihanna

British Group – Take That

Mastercard British Album Of The Year – Mumford And Sons, ‘Sigh No More’

Source: BANG Showbiz

Amy Winehouse has been named the least desirable celebrity wife

The ‘Rehab’ singer – famed for her troubled marriage to drug addict Blake Fielder-Civil, tattoo-covered body and eccentric behaviour – topped a poll by My OK! Wedding magazine, in which readers were asked who would be a terrible spouse.

Joining Amy on the list of bad wives were Lindsay Lohan, Britney Spears, Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Lady Gaga, while Charlie Sheen – who entered rehab last week for drink and drug problems – was named least desirable celebrity husband., closely followed by Mel Gibson and Tom Cruise.

While Amy and Charlie weren’t popular marriage material with readers, Natalie Portman – who is expecting her first child with fiance Benjamin Millepied – was given the title of most desirable celebrity wife, with Britain’s Prince Harry being named as the ultimate husband.

Megan Fox, Katy Perry and Kate Moss all made the top ten for the perfect wife, while Justin Bieber, Robert Pattinson, David Beckham and Harry’s brother Prince William were in the running for ideal husband.

Paul Stacey, a spokesman for My OK! Wedding said: “We were stunned by the results. The least attractive celeb brides and grooms were the party monsters. And I was shocked that Madonna, Lady Gaga and Gwyneth Paltrow were in the least desirable top ten.

“And amazingly, now that Harry has cleaned up his act and proven himself to the world with his work in Afghanistan, he has topped the poll beating all the expected candidates like Robert Pattinson and even his brother William.”

My OK! Wedding Poll Results:

Least Desirable Celebrity Husband:

1: Charlie Sheen

2: Mel Gibson

3: Tom Cruise

4: Mickey Rourke

5: Pete Doherty

6: Marilyn Manson

7: David Hasselhoff

8: Ricky Gervais

9: Chris Moyles

10: Wayne Rooney

Least Desirable Celebrity Wife:

1: Amy Winehouse

2: Lindsay Lohan

3: Britney Spears

4: Heather Mills

5: Gwyneth Paltrow

6: Katie Holmes

7: Lady Gaga

8: Madonna

9: Nicole Kidman

10: Sarah Jessica Parker

Most Desirable Celebrity Wife:

1: Natalie Portman

2: Megan Fox

3: Katy Perry

4: Kate Moss

5: Gisele Bundchen

6: Cheryl Cole

7: Christina Hendricks

8: Rihanna

9: Kim Kardashian

10: Kate Middleton

Most Desirable Celebrity Husband:

1: Prince Harry

2: Justin Bieber

3: Robert Pattinson

4: David Beckham

5: Russell Brand

6: Colin Firth

7: Prince William

8: George Clooney

9: Piers Morgan

10: Brad Pitt

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna has mended her long-running feud with her estranged father

The 22-year-old beauty – whose strained relationship with former drug addict Ronald Fenty for worsened after he spoke to the media about her assault at the hands of then-boyfriend Chris Brown in February 2009 – reconciled with her parent in her native Barbados over the festive period.

Ronald, 57, said: “I saw her twice before Christmas and she came to see me on Christmas Day (25.12.10). She showered me with gifts, a lot of stuff, many shirts and cologne. She’s always really generous.”

Though Ronald knows he can never be as close to the ‘Russian Roulette’ hitmaker as he once was, he is happy to be her “friend” again.

He said: “Maybe we’re not as close as we were when she was growing up here and was at school. But we are blood, we do not stay angry and we are friends again.”

Rihanna originally fell out with her dad after he turned up drunk to one of her shows and trashed her tour bus in 2008, and Ronald – who has now given up alcohol – admits he was not surprised by how he was treated in the immediate aftermath by his feisty daughter.

He explained to the Daily Mirror newspaper: “We did have a disagreement about the drinking on the tour. I got plastered on the tour bus. I can drink rum or beer but vodka does not like me – or gin.

“She blasted me for that – she was always lippy from her small days. I was picked up from the hotel in the morning and I was just shuttled to the airport.”

Rihanna has previously revealed her childhood was blighted by her dad Ronald’s drug problems and eventual split from her mother when she was 14.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna to Launch Her First Fragrance, Reb’l Fleur

It’s a deal that’s been months in the making, but Rihanna is now officially Hollywood’s newest perfumer with the launch of her debut signature scent, Reb’l Fleur. “My grandmother in Barbados used to call me her Rebel Flower,” the singer tells PEOPLE of what inspired the fragrance’s name. And while the name might be the natural choice, deciding on the final mix proved something more of a challenge.

“Over the years, I layered many different scents to get something that was truly my own,” she says. “But I wanted…something that said ‘Rihanna was here.’ Something delicious and special, a fragrance with subtle hints that linger and leave a sexy memory.”

News Source: People Stylewatch

Rihanna is annoyed she didn’t realise she was in an abusive relationship

The singer was assaulted by then-boyfriend Chris Brown in February 2009, and though they split following the attack, they briefly reconciled and now the ‘Only Girl (In The World)’ hitmaker admits she can’t believe she didn’t end the relationship sooner.

She said: “It was a situation I always told myself I would never allow myself to be in. It’s something I would force girlfriends to get out of. But there I was, sitting in it.

“I witnessed physical abuse happening to my mum and I always said I would never let that happen to me, and then it was happening to me.

“Now, when I look back at it, it just bugs me out that I couldn’t see it for what it was.”

Despite the shocking attack, Rihanna – who is now dating baseball star Matt Kemp – insists she never wanted people to pity her and hates the fact her personal problems became public knowledge.

She told Britain’s GQ magazine: “Before that, I was just a little girl from the island, singing pop music. It was easy to think I was shallow I had everything. It seemed like I had no problems in the world.

“And all of a sudden, boom! Everybody realises I do have problems. I have too much pride. I would rather put on a face. I would never let anyone see me cry. And I’m not like, ‘Please cry for me, I’ve been in a bad relationship.’ I hate that you know that and I don’t want you to remember me for that.

“That’s the defensive part of me. Even if I feel really bad about a situation, I put up that wall so hard that I almost believe myself that I don’t care.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Eminem leads the 2011 Grammy nominations, with nods in 10 categories

The ‘Not Afraid’ rapper is in the running for some of the most prestigious prizes at the annual ceremony, including Album of the Year, Song of the Year and Record Of The Year.

Singer-and-songwriter Bruno Mars got the second most nominations when they were announced last night (01.12.10) with seven, while Lady Gaga, rapper Jay-Z and country act Lady Antebellum all scored six.

Bruno – who, among his nominations, is up for Best Male Pop Vocal for his hit ‘Just the Way You Are’ – said: “It’s just been a great year, incredible, incredible year, and I can’t believe this is happening to me.

“We’ve worked so hard trying to make a living doing music and the fact that we’re here right now is incredible, incredible.”

Another track co-written by Bruno – Cee Lo Green’s ‘F**k You’ – was nominated for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year, and Cee Lo said he never realised the track, which was edited to ‘Forget You’ for the radio, would be such a hit.

He said: “It wasn’t meant to be a radio song. It was meant to be something with flair and first impression and it really took on a life of its own, and I had no idea it would become what it is today.”

In the Best Newcomer category, Justin Bieber found himself nominated alongside his fellow Canadian, rapper Drake.

He told LL Cool J – who hosted the nominations show at Club Nokia in Los Angeles: “It feels amazing – I can’t believe I’m in this position! I don’t know what to say!”

Among the performers at the nominations show were Katy Perry - who opened proceedings with ‘California Gurls’ - Justin Bieber, rapper B.o.B and indie group Train.

The 53rd Grammy Awards will take place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on 13 February 2011.

Grammy Awards 2011 list of main nominations:

Album of the Year:

‘The Suburbs’ – Arcade Fire

‘Recovery’ – Eminem

‘Need You Now’ – Lady Antebellum

‘The Fame Monster’ – Lady Gaga

‘Teenage Dream’ – Katy Perry

Song of the Year:

‘Beg, Steal or Borrow’ – Ray LaMontagne

‘Forget You’ – Cee Lo Green

‘The House That Built Me’ – Miranda Lambert

‘Love the Way You Lie’ – Eminem feat. Rihanna

‘Need You Know’ – Lady Antebellum

Record of the Year:

‘Love the Way You Lie’ – Eminem feat. Rihanna

‘Nothin’ On You’ – Bruno Mars

‘Forget You’ – Cee Lo

‘Empire State of Mind’ – Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys

‘Need You Now’ – Lady Antebellum

Best New Artist:

Justin Bieber

Drake

Florence and The Machine

Mumford & Sons

Esperanza Spalding

Best Country Album:

Up On The Ridge – Dierks Bentley

You Get What You Give – Zac Brown Band

The Guitar Song – Jamey Johnson

Need You Now – Lady Antebellum

Revolution – Miranda Lambert

Best Rap Album:

The Adventures Of Bobby Ray – B.o.B

Thank Me Later – Drake

Recovery – Eminem

The Blueprint 3 – Jay-Z

How I Got Over – The Roots

Best Contemporary R’n’B Album:

Graffiti – Chris Brown

Untitled – R. Kelly

Transition – Ryan Leslie

The ArchAndroid – Janelle Monae

Raymond V Raymond – Usher

Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals:

‘Don’t Stop Believin’ (Regionals Version)’ – Glee Cast

‘Misery’ – Maroon 5

‘The Only Exception’ – Paramore

‘Babyfather’ – Sade

‘Hey, Soul Sister (Live)’ – Train

Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals:

‘Airplanes II’ – B.o.B, Eminem & Hayley Williams

‘Imagine’ – Herbie Hancock, Pink, India.Arie, Seal, Konono No. 1, Jeff Beck & Oumou Sangare

‘If It Wasn’t For Bad’ – Elton John & Leon Russell

‘Telephone’ – Lady Gaga & Beyonce Knowles

‘California Gurls’ – Katy Perry & Snoop Dogg

Best Dance Recording:

‘Rocket’ – Goldfrapp

‘In For The Kill’ – La Roux

‘Dance In The Dark’ – Lady Gaga

‘Only Girl (In The World)’ – Rihanna

‘Dancing On My Own’ – Robyn

Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals:

‘Ready To Start’ – Arcade Fire

‘I Put A Spell On You’ – Jeff Beck & Joss Stone

‘Tighten Up’ – The Black Keys

‘Radioactive’ – Kings of Leon

‘Resistance’ – Muse

Source: BANG Showbiz

Justin Bieber became the youngest person ever to win the Artist of the Year prize at the American Music Awards (AMAs) last night (21.11.10).

The ‘Pray’ hitmaker was the big winner of the evening, taking home four accolades including Favourite Pop/Rock Male Artist, Favourite Album and Breakthrough Artist of the Year during the ceremony at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.

Accepting the Artist of the Year honour, the 16-year-old star thanked his mentor Usher and invited the ‘OMG’ singer to join him on stage.

He said: “I really was embraced by a man named Usher Raymond. It would be only right if I invited him up here to share it with me.”

Usher picked up two gongs himself, Favourite Soul/R&B Male Artist and Favourite Soul/R&B Album, while rapper Eminem walked away with statuettes for Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Male Artist and Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Album.

Other winners at the 38th annual ceremony included country stars Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley; British rock band Muse, R&B singer Rihanna and Colombian pop star Shakira.

Michael Buble was heard shouted “I love winning things’’ when he picked up the Favourite Adult Contemporary Artist award.

Rihanna, Katy Perry, Kid Rock and Bon Jovi, all performed at the ceremony and boy bands New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) and Backstreet Boys joined up for their first collaborative live stage effort before they kick off a joint American tour next year.

Pink – who announced last week she is pregnant with her first child – did not allow her pregnancy to slow her down putting on an energetic dance routine to perform new song ‘Raise Your Glass’.

American Music Awards (AMAs) 2010, full list of winners:

Favourite Soul/R&B Album: Usher, ‘Raymond v. Raymond’

Favourite Pop Rock Band/Duo/Group: The Black Eyed Peas

Favourite Country Female Artist: Taylor Swift

Favourite Latin Music Artist: Shakira

Favourite Soul/R&B Female Artist: Rihanna

Favourite Country Male Artist: Brad Paisley

Favourite Breakthrough Artist: Justin Bieber

Favourite Pop/Rock Male Artist: Justin Bieber

Favourite Country Band/Duo/Group: Lady Antebellum

Favourite Alternative Rock Music Artist: Muse

Favourite Adult Contemporary Music Artist: Michael Buble

Favourite Soul/R&B Male Artist: Usher

Favourite Artist of the Year: Justin Bieber

Favourite Country Album: Carrie Underwood, ‘Play On’

Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Male Artist: Eminem

Favourite Pop/Rock Album: Justin Bieber, ‘My World 2.0’

Favourite Pop/Rock Female Artist: Lady Gaga

Favourite Contemporary Inspirational Artist: MercyMe

Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Album: Eminem, ‘Recovery’

Favourite Soundtrack Album: ‘Glee: The Music, Volume 3 Showstoppers’

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna has toned down her sexiness

The 22-year-old singer – who is well known for her suggestive stage outfits – has grown more comfortable with her femininity, and believes that is now reflected in her style.

She explained: “My sexiness now is more flirtatious, not so defensive and aggressive. It’s more .”

The ‘Only Girl (In The World)’ hitmaker – who shot to fame aged just 17 – regularly questions whether she has tried to do too much too young, but admitted she is highly ambitious and has many things she still wants to achieve.

She said: “It’s a very repetitive thought. Especially when I think about what I want to achieve. I always over-challenge myself and beat myself up. ‘I haven’t done enough. I haven’t done enough.’ And then I think, ‘What the hell — you’re 22!’ “

Toning down her sexiness is just one way in which Rihanna feels she has matured – she has set up her own company, Rihanna Entertainment, now that she feels old enough to handle the business aspects of her career properly.

She added in an interview with USA Today newspaper: “You can’t have too much responsibility without being able to handle it in a responsible way.

“So I just waited until the time was right. It was now. Business is something I need to be a lot more serious about. I feel, like, really old doing it. It has made me grow up.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna has splashed out on a second honeymoon for Katy Perry and Russell Brand

The ‘Only Girl (In The World)’ hitmaker is so upset she missed the couple’s wedding in India last month due to work commitments that she has apologised by arranging a lavish second honeymoon in Tokyo for them costing £30,000.

A source told The Sun: “Rihanna hasn’t stopped apologising since the wedding day. She told Katy she’d been racking her brains about how to make it up to them.

“She knows how much Katy loves Tokyo, so this way she could give them a trip they would always remember.”

The generous holiday package includes four nights in the £1,500 Dynasty suite at Tokyo’s Mandarin Oriental hotel and first class flights.
Russell and Katy will be delighted with Rihanna’s gift of a second honeymoon as their first was reportedly ruined by a spider.

The pair flew to the Soneva Fushi resort in the Maldives after their Indian wedding but plans for a romantic holiday were spoilt after the ‘Firework’ hitmaker was bitten by a spider and treated with medication that left her too exhausted to consummate the marriage.

Katy – who had imposed a one-month sex band before tying the knot – fell foul of the insect almost immediately after arriving at the £8000-a-night resort and was left with a rash on her legs, forcing her to seek medical advice.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna will “never ever forgive” herself for missing Katy Perry’s wedding

The ‘Only Girl in the World’ singer is admits she is wracked with guilt for missing her close pal’s nuptials to Russell Brand in India last month due to work commitments.

She told KIIS-FM DJ Ryan Seacrest: “I will never ever forgive myself for that, it was a crazy time, it was a crazy week, I’m switching management. There was no phone service in India and very little-to-no internet service, so it would have been a little irresponsible of me. I’m sad that I missed it.”

Although she didn’t attend the wedding, Rihanna recently revealed she got the newlyweds an amazing present, saying: “I got her a really, really cool gift. But I’ll let her tell you about that!”

Sources had claimed Katy and Russell had reserved Rihanna a room at the Aman-i-Khas resort in Rajasthan, India, in the hope she would make it.

One said: “It was always sort of up in the air that she would go anyway, and Katy knew that. They saved her a room just in case, but they always knew it would be nearly impossible for her to make it as she’s still finishing the album and it’s out in a few weeks. Rih was in the studio all weekend.”

Last month, Rihanna announced she had signed a deal with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation management team.

She said at the time: “I’m so excited to take this next step in my career.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Rihanna can’t wear white anymore

The ‘Only Girl In The World’ singer has recently dyed her hair a shocking bright red colour, but the style means she can’t wear light garments because it runs, ruining them.

Rihanna explained: “Red suits my mood right now, it’s fun, playful and flirty. But I can’t wear white anymore, and my god, my pillows! I wake up thinking, ‘What The Hell? Who’s died in here?’ my pillows, my sheets, I open my eyes and see red.”

The ‘Rude Boy’ hitmaker is also constantly touring the world and relies on laundry services to keep her clothes clean, but says she still washes all her own underwear by hand, as it is ”too personal to send out”.

Barbados born Rihanna is also said to be considering becoming a UK resident, and moving from California to London.

She said: “I spend more time over there than I spend in Los Angeles, and that’s where I live. London is more like my home.”

Rihanna’s fifth album ‘Loud’ is released on November 10.

Source: BANG Showbiz