Between Pop-Stardom and Parenthood, Katy Perry Still Finds Time to Empower Others – For the 2021 Power of Women issue, Variety spoke with several women in the entertainment industry who are using their voices to benefit worthy causes. Now that you’ve served as a judge [on American Idol] for four years, how have you seen the contestants change in that time? There is so much more confidence or like “fake it until you make it” now. There’s a lot more boldness. There’s a lot of passion and emotion. There’s a lot of artists They’re playing instruments. They’re writing their own songs. I don’t know if we’re seeing that more on “Idol” because we’re more drawn to it. But people watch and go, “Oh, this isn’t a karaoke show.” – Read more at Variety
Jennifer Hudson Collaborated with Anthony Hamilton on a cut from his new album. Jennifer writes on Instagram, “I am such a fan of great R&B and @anthonyhamiltonofficial so it was an amazing treat to duet with him on his new album, which is out now ! I hope u enjoy it as much as we did recording it. And my good friend @georgehuff4real produced my vocals ! Love u George! Be sure to go stream or purchase Anthony’s album and check out our song “Superstar”!” George Huff sings backups for Jennifer, and finished in 5th place (ahead of her 7th place finish!) on American Idol season 3. Via Instagram
Off The Record LIVE with Laine Hardy – American Songwriter – Joe Vito sat down with American Idol Season 17 winner, Laine Hardy for an American Songwriter exclusive interview. Hardy opens up about his origins growing up in Louisiana, what it was like winning American Idol, and what’s in store for his music career.
‘American Idol’ winner Nick Fradiani performs at Harwinton Fair Sunday – When COVID-19 hit in early 2020, Fradiani was part of the touring production of “A Bronx Tale,” which stopped into Waterbury’s Palace Theater in October 2019. The show had gotten in 100 performances before it was shut down by the virus. Although the road tour was cut short, Fradiani said it did help him as a performer, especially as a singer. As part of the company, Fradiani worked with a vocal coach, learning different ways to warm up before opening his mouth. He also learned better ways to use his voice as a singer. The experience with “A Bronx Tale” was a positive one for Fradiani and one he is hoping to repeat. He just signed with an acting agency to secure more gigs such as the national tour for the musical based on the stage play by Chazz Palminteri. – Read more at rep-am.com
The Voice season 6 Josh Kaufman Returns to Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael! – In addition to writing and performing your music, what are some other projects that you’re currently working on? Kaufman: There are too many for me to get done but I always try! I am teaching and have been for the last couple of years. I set aside a couple days a week to do vocal coaching, guitar and songwriting lessons with mostly middle school and high school students, but I do have some adult students too. I started a podcast that ties together a lot of my interests. My education is in philosophy—I graduated with a degree in philosophy and went to grad school for it as well. The podcast is called “The Pare With Josh Kaufman.” It has a double meaning: It pares or peels back the layers of things that I’m interested in and is an acronym for philosophy, art, religion and ethics—all main topics that I’m interested in and try to tie together with my guests.- Read more at Carmel Monthly
Jamie Spears Suspended From Britney Spears’ Conservatorship – The court has made a big decision regarding Britney Spears’ ongoing conservatorship. In a hearing held at a Los Angeles courthouse on Wednesday, Sept. 29, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Brenda Penny ruled Jamie Spears was suspended from his role effective today. E! News has learned from the courtroom that business owner John Zabel will be the temporary conservator of the estate through the end of the year. Britney’s attorney stated he plans to file his own petition in the next 30-45 days to terminate the entire conservatorship with a formal plan. Britney was not present for the hearing. Her parents were present on the phone, but didn’t speak during the proceedings. Earlier this month, Jamie, who has served as conservator of Britney’s estate for the past 13 years, submitted a petition to ask a judge to choose whether to terminate the conservatorship of Britney’s person and estate. Britney’s attorney previously filed court papers in July to replace Jamie with another conservator. – Read more at EOnline
