UK Charts: Top 10 Albums of 2008

Duffy


Duffy has the Best Selling Album of 2008, according to the official chart listed below, her album 'Rockferry' went on to sell 1.685 million. The Welsh singer beat Take That who sold 1.446million copies in just four weeks since 'Circus' was released. Take That have the fastest million selling album ever in the UK.

Kings of Leon, Leona Lewis and Coldplay all went on to sell over a million copies of their albums as fans continued to snap up albums in the UK despite the credit crunch. Girls Aloud ended 2008 on a high as their new album 'Out of Control' gave them their first studio album #1.

Top 10 Albums of 2008:

1. Rockferry - Duffy**
2. The Circus - Take That**
3. Only By The Night - Kings of Leon**
4. Spirit - Leona Lewis**
5. Viva La Vida... - Coldplay
6. Good Girl Gone Bad - Rihanna **
7. Day & Age - Killers**
8. Out of Control - Girls Aloud**
9. Funhouse - Pink **
10. Scouting For Girls - Scouting For Girls

*Source: Official Charts Company
** Still in Top 40

UK Charts: Top 10 Singles of 2008

X Factor's Alexandra Burke has the best selling single of 2008, according to the official chart listed below. Her version of 'Hallelujah' sold a staggering 888,000 copies in just two weeks, but it will mean no single sold more than a million copies during 2008. The shift towards downloads and albums continues as CD sales dropped during the year.

Alexandra Burke was also #2 with the other X Factor finalists single 'Hero', selling 751,000 copies and clearly ahead of Welsh singer Duffy, who sold 536,000 copies of her single 'Mercy'. Madonna managed to gain an entry in the chart at #9 with '4 Minutes'.

Top 10 Selling Singles of 2008:

1. Hallelujah - Alexandra Burke**
2. Hero - X Factor finalists
3. Mercy - Duffy
4. I Kissed A Girl - Katy Perry
5. Rockstar - Nickelback
6. American Boy - Estelle/ Kanye West
7. Sex on Fire - Kings of Leon**
8. Now You're Gone - Basshunter
9. 4 Minutes - Madonna/ Justin Timberlake
10. Black & Gold - Sam Sparro

*Source: Official Charts Company
** still in Top 40

Prince William - What's In Your Shorts?

Click the picture below and get a close up of Prince William's crown jewels!

Prince William and Prince Harry were playing a game of football together this Christmas at Castle Rising, near King's Lynn and Enigma pictures have captured a rather interesting shot of the Royals. The question is - what has Prince William got hiding in his shorts?

*sorry I couldn't resist showing that picture - you can tell it's quiet at this time of year for entertainment news!!

Top 100 UK MSN/Windows Live Searches of 2008

Girls Aloud feature high on Internet Search of 2008

The Top 100 Internet Searches of 2008, as used by MSN/Windows Live UK users are listed below. See how many from the list you have searched for. Cheryl Cole, Victoria Beckham and Girls Aloud feature high on my internet searches.........

1. Britney Spears
2. EastEnders
3. WWE
4. Liverpool FC
5. Arsenal
6. Jessica Alba
7. Cheryl Cole
8. Manchester United
9. High School Musical
10. Angelina Jolie
11. Victoria Beckham
12. Doctor Who
13. Paris Hilton
14. Big Brother
15. X Factor
16. Christina Aguilera
17. Strictly Come Dancing
18. David Beckham
19. Madonna
20. Megan Fox
21. Rihanna
22. Lindsay Lohan
23. Girls Aloud
24. Hollyoaks
25. Mariah Carey
26. Kerry Katona
27. Kylie Minogue
28. Amy Winehouse
29. Leeds United
30. Jennifer Aniston
31. Gemma Atkinson
32. Barack Obama
33. Miley Cyrus
34. Kelly Brook
35. Keira Knightley
36. Manuel Uribe
37. Lily Allen
38. Leona Lewis
39. Vanessa Hudgens
40. Emma Watson
41. I'm A Celebrity
42. Thomas Beatie
43. David Cameron
44. Heath Ledger
45. Zac Efron
46. Nicola McLean
47. Harry Potter
48. Dede Koswara
49. Cristiano Ronaldo
50. The Simpsons
51. Premier League
52. Newcastle United
53. Aston Villa
54. Jennifer Lopez
55. Manchester City
56. Scarlett Johansson
57. Hayden Panetierre
58. Coronation Street
59. Heather Mills
60. Lewis Hamilton
61. Dancing On Ice
62. V Festival
63. Chelsea FC
64. Daniel Radcliffe
65. Jade Goody
66. Eva Longoria
67. Top Gear
68. Karolina Kurkova
69. Everton FC
70. Beijing Olympics
71. Georgina Baillie
72. Dannii Minogue
73. Holly Willoughby
74. Dayana Mendoza
75. Sarah Palin
76. Andy Murray
77. Spice Girls
78. Ian Usher
79. Jennifer Ellison
80. Grand National
81. Morgan Freeman
82. Ryder Cup
83. London Marathon
84. Peng Shuilin
85. Hurricane Gustav
86. Shannon Matthews
87. Children In Need
88. Katy Perry
89. Tottenham Hotspur
90. Ricky Hatton
91. Carol Vorderman
92. Bernie Mac
93. Wimbledon
94. Billie Piper
95. Jennifer Hudson
96. He Pingping
97. Jessica Simpson
98. Glastonbury Festival
99. Quantum of Solace
100. Carla Bruni

Top 20 Christmas Day Viewing Figures

Here are the viewing figures for the Top 20 Christmas Day programmes:

1. Wallace & Gromit: A Matter Of Loaf And Death - BBC1, 8.30pm - 14.25m

2. Doctor Who: 'The Next Doctor' - BBC1, 6pm - 11.71m

3. EastEnders - BBC1, 9pm - 11.47m

4. The Royle Family - BBC1, 9.30pm - 9.98m

5. EastEnders - BBC1, 8pm - 9.89m

6. Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special - BBC1, 7pm - 8.57m

7. Coronation Street - ITV1, 7pm - 7.36m

8. Wallace & Gromit In The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit - BBC1, 4.30pm - 7.22m

9. The Queen - BBC1, 3pm - 6.45m

10. Blackadder Rides Again - BBC1, 10.30pm - 5.58m

11. Dancing On Ice At Christmas - ITV1, 8pm - 5.2m

12. Emmerdale - ITV1, 6pm - 4.76m

13. Shark Tale - BBC1, 3.10pm - 4.69m

14. It'll Be Alright On The Night - ITV1, 9.30pm - 3.8m

15. Top Of The Pops Christmas Special - BBC1, 2pm - 3.74m

16. Harry Potter and the Prisoner Of Azkaban - ITV1, 3pm - 3.32m

17. Dad's Army - BBC2, 8pm - 2.7m

18. The Two Ronnies - BBC1, 1.05pm - 2.52m

19. The Santa Clause 2 - BBC1, 11.25am - 2.37m

20. Stanley Baxter: Now & Then - ITV1, 10.30pm - 2.16m

The Enemy: Kasbah Gig In Coventry

Here are a couple of pictures and videos of The Enemy as they performed at Coventry's Kasbah music venue to raise funds for Alexandra Emery:

The Enemy @ Kasbah, Coventry
Tom Clarke

Liam Watts


Andy Hopkins

The Enemy performed their final gig of 2008 back home in familiar territory in front of the Coventry faithful as they helped raised much needed funds for Alexandra Emery. Their was a festive feel about the gig and it seems everyone was up for a party as almost 1,000 turned up to show their support for this worthy cause.



Tom Clarke, Andy Hopkins and Liam Watts gave the crowds just what they wanted - the anthem tunes from their debut album and some new tracks thrown in as a little Christmas present!



I was feeling in a party mood as I had a houseful of Enemy fans from around the country stopping over for the gig. Instead of finding a safe spot to stand, I got into the thick of it and just enjoyed myself. The bodies of crowd surfers, the loss of my camera batteries, the moshing, the sweat - they all reminded me why I love gigs, why I love The Enemy and why I love Coventry.



Security did a stunning job of looking after the crowd surfers, and even in my drunken state I could see how professional they were. I could also tell from Andy and Tom's face (I couldn't see Liam without my glasses!) that they were happy to be back home, performing at the Kasbah (formally The Colosseum).



It was another great night out and an honour to be a very small part of something so worth while.





The Enemy - "This Song" - Kasbah, Coventry


The Enemy - "We'll Live And Die In These Towns" - Kasbah, Coventry

Set List:

Away From Here
40 Days And 40 Nights
Checkout Girls
Pressure
Technodanceaphobic
Had Enough
Aggro
We Live And Die In These Towns
It's Not OK
This Song
-------------
Elephant Song
Jane
Sing When You're In Love
You're Not Alone


http://www.theenemy.eu/ - for the latest news on The Enemy

Take That: The Circus Sells A Million Copies

Take That will end 2008 as the Kings of Pop after it was confirmed their new album 'The Circus' has sold 1 million copies since it was released almost two weeks ago. It has become the fastest selling album of the 21st century and the second fastest selling album of all time.

By the end of next week, Take That will have the second biggest selling UK album of the year, with Duffy's 'Rockferry' selling 1.5m to claim the number one spot.

Yet, all was not quite so good for the Queen of Pop, Madonna- her latest single 'Miles Away' is expected to limp into the UK charts at #39. It will be her worst performing single ever and will end her year on a low.

The Specials: Final Gig At RICOH Coventry

The Specials will play their final gig from their 30th Anniversary Tour in Coventry on Friday 15th May 2009 at the city's Ricoh Arena. The home coming gig marks the culmination of the SKA bands 14 date reunion tour.

The Coventry band first hit the headlines back in the late 70's as they helped create a new blend of music for recession hit youngsters across the UK. Hits like 'Ghost Town', 'Friday Night, Saturday Morning' and 'A Message To You Rudy' struck a cord with the generation of the day. The tour offers one last chance for fans to re-live those classic tunes and the lyrics have the opportunity to reach a whole new recession hit generation.

Last week tickets went on sale and sold out within minutes at most venues, prompting more dates to be added at Glasgow, Manchester and London. Tickets go on sale Wednesday 17th December at 9am for Coventry: Tickets are £32.50 from See Tickets (0871 2200 260) , Ticketweb (0844 477 1000), Ticketmaster (0844 844 0444) and The Ticket Factory (0844 338 8000) or book online at http://www.gigsandtours.com/, http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/, http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/ or http://www.theticketfactory.com/

http://www.theenemy.eu/ - for the latest news on The Enemy

Alexandra Burke's X Factor Hallelujah - Fastest In Europe

Alexandra Burke looks set for the Christmas number 1 on Sunday with her debut single Hallelujah, after winning X Factor on Saturday. The single has already broken records across Europe, becoming the fastest selling download with a staggering 105,000 copies sold. It went on sale at midnight, just two hours after Alexandra won the X Factor.

The Leonard Cohen hit was an instant hit with the public who were won over by Alexandra Burke's emotional performance with Beyoncé during Saturday night's record breaking final, with 14 million tuning in.

The single is released on CD this Wednesday , yet is virtually guaranteed the number 1 Christmas position after selling 23,000 more downloads than Leona Lewis two years prior with A Moment Like This.

The Specials Tour Interview

The Specials


The Specials are back and here is an interview with Lynval Golding, Horace Panter and Roddy Byers from the Coventry Telegraph by2-Tone fan Pete Chambers. Tickets for The Specials UK Tour are on sale now and here is the interview talking about the upcoming reunion tour.

How does it feel to be a Special again?

LYNVAL: "It's been a really slow process, but we were intent on celebrating something we created 30 years ago. So we are finally here, and to get up there on stage again to play to the fans is going to be a real celebration. I have to stop and pinch myself, it's simply a lovely dream that I don't want to wake up from".

RODDY: "I hope it's less painful this time!"

Horace: "I think physically it will be more painful – I'm not 25 any more! Seriously, I think it's going to be a lot easier".

The Specials @ Bestival Festival in September

At Bestival (a festival the six of them played in the Isle of Wight in September) we basically got the first album, I presume the set-list this time will include the second album and Ghost Town?

HORACE: "For our dance hall shows in April/May we will be playing for 90 minutes, twice as long as we did on the Isle of Wight, so there's room for second album stuff and beyond".

When next year's tour was announced it all went mad, even I was surprised of the emotion people still had for The Specials, how was it for you?

HORACE: "It hasn't really sunk in yet".

Do you think we will see the stage invasions of 1979/80. Indeed has The Specials ethos changed in 30 years?

HORACE : "Thirty years ago I was always concerned that someone would get badly hurt during the stage invasions but the health and safety aspect of rock'n'roll shows has changed dramatically over the past 25 years. Whether our attitude has, remains to be seen".

Will you, as The Telegraph reported last week, be playing in Coventry?

STEVE BLACKWELL (Specials manager) : The answer to that is a great big YES. There is no big secret about it, the reason there is no news on the date as yet, is that it must be planned properly.

"The band are still working on plans for Coventry and no decision as to where or when have yet been made". I can assure everyone that the band want this to be a very Special gig for the people of Coventry!

Tour News and Views:

* The last time The Specials played in Coventry was at the Butts Stadium on Saturday June 20 1981, for the Rock Against Racism concert.

* A large percentage of latter-day Specials fans, are far too young to have ever seen them play. This is something the band are happy to rectify.

* The 'Where's the Coventry date' scenario, is nothing new. The Specials' first tour back in 1979 didn't include a Coventry date when originally announced either. That was also rectified before the tour was out.

* The tickets for the tour on sale priced at £32.50 in advance, except London £35. 24-hour Hotline: 0871 2200 260 / Online: www.gigsandtours.com

http://www.theenemy.eu/ - for the latest news on The Enemy

POLL - Who Has More Style - Victoria Beckham or Cheryl Cole?

This weeks POLL asks: 'Who Has More Style - Victoria Beckham or Cheryl Cole?' So get voting for the one YOU think looks the best in whatever outfit she wears. Who will be crowned Queen of Fashion next week VOTE now!

Both are famous for their singing and for their looks, and even have a famous footballing husband beside them. Yet both Victoria Beckham and Cheryl Cole command so much magazine space every time they hit the street in a new stunning outfit. Has Posh gone off the rails? Is Cheryl the new fashion icon?

*You decided in this weeks POLL - Cheryl Cole was the winner!

*pics:VB - REX Features / CC - Matrixphotos.com

Pictures: Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis has hit the top of the UK charts again this week with 'Run', so to celebrate here are some new pictures of the multi-million selling artist:

CLICK IMAGE TO SEE BIGGER IMAGE

CLICK IMAGE TO SEE BIGGER PICTURE

Grammy Awards Nominations: The List

Adele, MIA and Leona Lewis lead the Brit pack in Grammy Nominations

*PIC: PA/BBC

Coldplay have seven Grammy Award nominations as the Brits look set for a good year at the 2009 Award show, especially in the Record of The Year category. The nominations for the 51st Grammy Awards were announced in Los Angeles and here is a selection of nominees in key categories:

Record of the Year:
Adele - Chasing Pavements
Coldplay - Viva La Vida
Leona Lewis - Bleeding Love
M.I.A. - Paper Planes
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss - Please Read The Letter


Album of the Year:
Coldplay - Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends
Lil Wayne - Tha Carter III
Ne-Yo - Year of the Gentleman
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss - Raising Sand
Radiohead - In Rainbows

Song of the Year: (awarded to songwriters)
Estelle - American Boy
Adele - Chasing Pavements
Jason Mraz - I'm Yours
Sara Bareilles - Love Song
Coldplay - Viva La Vida

Best New Artist:
Adele
Duffy
Jonas Brothers
Lady Antebellum
Jazmine Sullivan

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance:
Adele - Chasing Pavements
Sara Bareilles - Love Song
Duffy - Mercy
Leona Lewis - Bleeding Love
Katy Perry - I Kissed A Girl
Pink - So What

Best Male Pop Vocal Performance:
Kid Rock - All Summer Long
John Mayer - Say
Paul McCartney - That Was Me
Jason Mraz - I'm Yours
Ne-Yo - Closer
James Taylor - Wichita Lineman

Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals:
Coldplay - Viva La Vida
Eagles - Waiting In The Weeds
Gnarls Barkley - Going On
Maroon 5 - Won't Go Home Without You
OneRepublic - Apologize

Best Dance Recording:
Daft Punk - Harder Better Faster Stronger
Hot Chip - Ready For The Floor
Lady Gaga and Colby O'Donis - Just Dance
Madonna - Give It 2 Me
Rihanna - Disturbia
Sam Sparro - Black & Gold

Best Electronic/Dance Album:
Brazilian Girls - New York City
Daft Punk - Alive 2007
Cyndi Lauper - Bring Ya To The Brink
Kylie Minogue - X
Moby - Last Night
Robyn - Robyn

Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance:
John Mayer - Gravity
Paul McCartney - I Saw Her Standing There
Bruce Springsteen - Girls In Their Summer Clothes
Eddie Vedder - Rise
Neil Young - Hidden Path

Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals:
AC/DC - Rock N Roll Train
Coldplay - Violet Hill
Eagles - Long Road Out of Eden
Kings of Leon - Sex on Fire
Radiohead - House of Cards

Best Rock Song: (awarded to songwriters)
Bruce Springsteen - Girls In Their Summer Clothes
Radiohead - House of Cards
Death Cab for Cutie - I Will Possess Your Heart
Kings of Leon - Sex on Fire
Coldplay - Violet Hill

Best Rock Album:
Coldplay - Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends
Kid Rock - Rock N Roll Jesus
Kings Of Leon - Only By The Night
Metallica - Death Magnetic
The Raconteurs - Consolers of the Lonely

Best Alternative Music Album:
Beck - Modern Guilt
Death Cab For Cutie - Narrow Stairs
Gnarls Barkley - The Odd Couple
My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges
Radiohead - In Rainbows

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance:
Beyonce - Me, Myself and I
Keyisha Cole - Heaven Sent
Jennifer Hudson - Spotlight
Alicia Keys - Superwoman
Jazmine Sullivan - Need U Bad

Best Male R&B Vocal Performance:
Eric Benet - You're The Only One
Chris Brown - Take You Down
Ne-Yo - Miss Independent
Trey Songz - Can't Help But Wait
Usher - Here I Stand

Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals:
Boyz II Men - Ribbon In The Sky
Anthony David ft India Arie - Words
Al Green ft John Legend - Stay With Me (By The Sea)
Jennifer Hudson ft Fantasia - I'm His Only Woman
Raphael Saadiq ft Stevie Wonder and CJ Hilton - Never Give You Up

Best R&B Song: (awarded to songwriters)
Jazimine Sullivan - Bust Your Windows
Raheem DeVaughn - Customer
Keyisha Cole - Heaven Sent
Ne-Yo - Miss Independent
Jennifer Hudson - Spotlight


Best R&B Album:
Eric Benet - Love & Life
Boyz II Men - Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA
Al Green - Lay It Down
Jennifer Hudson - Jennifer Hudson
Raphael Saadiq - The Way I See It

Best Rap Solo Performance:
Jay-Z - Rock Boys (And The Winner Is)
Lil' Wayne - A Milli
Lupe Fiasco - Paris, Tokyo
Nas - N.i.*.*.e.r. (The Slave And The Master)
Snoop Dogg - Sexual Eruption

Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group:
Big Boi/Raekwon/Andre 3000 - Royal Flush
Jay-Z and TI ft Kanye West and Lil Wayne - Swagga Like Us
Ludacris ft TI - Wish You Would
Young Jeezy ft Kanye West

Best Rap/Sung Collaboration:
Estelle ft Kanye West - American Boy
Flo Rida ft T-Pain - Low
John Legend and Andre 3000 - Green Light
Lil' Wayne ft T-Pain - Got Money
Lupe Fiasco ft Matthew Santos - Superstar

Best Rap Album:
Jay-Z - American Gangster
Lil' Wayne - Tha Carter III
Lupe Fiasco - The Cool
Nas - Nas
TI - Paper Trial

The Specials Announce Tour Dates For 2009

The Specials @ Mojo Awards

Coventry band, The Specials have announced a tour for 2009, as we predicted here, with dates announced for April and May. The popular SKA band performed at this year's Bestival Festival in the Isle of Wight in early September and fans have been checking this website daily for the news as to when The Specials would be going on tour.

The tickets go on sale on Thursday 11th December, but details about a home coming Coventry date have yet to be announced. The original line up of Terry Hall, Lynval Golding, Neville Staple, Roddy Byers, Horace Panter and John Bradbury will be performing on the UK tour, it was revealed today.

Terry Hall said in a previous interview that he was in favour of theatre-sized venues. Speaking about the tour, Terry Hall said: "That's the kind of venue where we started. I don't like arena dates, at all. They're just soulless." We will update you with more news about any more dates.

The tour will visit:

Newcastle Academy - 22 April

Sheffield Academy - 23 April

Birmingham Academy - 25 & 26 April

Glasgow Academy - 28 April

Manchester Apollo - 3 May

London Brixton Academy - 6 & 7 May

Ticket Telephone Numbers:

22 April NEWCASTLE, Academy 0844 477 2000 *
23 April SHEFFIELD, Academy 0844 477 2000 *
25 April BIRMINGHAM, Academy 0844 477 2000 **
26 April BIRMINGHAM, Academy 0844 477 2000
28 April GLASGOW, Academy 08444 999 990
3 May MANCHESTER, Apollo 08444 777 677
6 May LONDON, Brixton Academy 0844 477 2000
7 May LONDON, Brixton Academy 0844 477 2000


Tickets go on sale 9am Thursday 11th December priced £32.50 in advance except London £35.
24 hr CC Hotline: 0871 2200 260 / online: www.gigsandtours.com
Doors 7pm except * tbc and ** 6pm.

*http://www.theenemy.eu/ - for the latest news on The Enemy

John Barrowman Gets Penis Out On Radio!

John Barrowman has plunged the BBC into another likely controversy by getting his penis out during a Radio 1 interview on 'The Switch'. The Dr Who and Torchwood actor was being interviewed by Annie Mac and Nick Grimshaw and was being filmed for an online feature.

The BBC said John Barrowman had exposed himself during the programme but it was not visible to online viewers. A spokeswoman said, "The YouTube video was taken down because it had overstepped the mark."

Leading up to Barrowman's exposure, the conversation was - Grimshaw: "You're famous, we're told, for getting your willy out in interviews. Is this going to happen today? Should Annie be careful?"
Barrowman asked: "Is the webcam on?"
When he was told it was, he responded: "Alright. I'll get it out for you then, no problem."

The exposure was at 20:15 and pre-watershed, which looks like inflaming another BBC row. Both the BBC and Barrowman have apologised for the incident.

Pushing Daisies Axed

Anna Friel in Pushing Daisies

Pushing Daisies will be pushing up it's own daisies after TV chiefs in the US axed the quirky show. The third series has just been filmed, but ABC are understood to have pulled the plug on any further episodes - due to disappointing ratings during the second series.

Anna Friel won critical acclaim for her role in the triple Emmy Award winning as Charlotte 'Chuck' Charles, which aired on ITV earlier this year winning over almost 6m viewers on it's UK debut. The final episode attracted just 2.4m viewers for ITV1 but proved a hit with fans, earning the status as a 'cult' show already.

Glastonbury: New Bands Given Chance To Perform

Scouting For Girls @ Glastonbury

Glastonbury Festival is going back to it's roots next year with the return of of the Emerging Talent Competition, giving up and coming bands a chance to perform in front of thousands at the UK's largest music festival.

Scouting For Girls (pictured above at Glastonbury 2008), previously won the title, which ran for four years before being axed. The competition is open to unsigned bands/artists until January 26th 2009, with the winner performing at one of the festival's main stages next year.

The public will have the opportunity to vote a 'wild card' into the final.

The Enemy: NME Awards Launch Brixton Gig

Liam Watts @ NME Awards Launch, Brixton

The Enemy performed in front of 200 excited fans during the NME Awards Launch, held at The Prince in Brixton last night (26/11/08). The Coventry trio took a break from the Welsh recording studio to be at the event hosted by NME magazine.

Tom Clarke, Andy Hopkins and Liam Watts were in high spirits as they belted out ten songs from their debut album "We'll Live And Die In These Towns" and had time for a little back stage humour with Chesney Hawkes "I Am The One And Only". The song appeared on the set list but thankfully The Enemy didn't perform the chart topping cheesy track.

Tom Clarke on stage in Brixton

The Enemy are set for a busy year themselves as they put the final touches to their follow up album and get back to their roots with smaller gig venues around the UK and Ireland. This is then followed up with a stadium tour with the mighty Oasis.

Fans are treated to a special gig

Fans reacted positively to the performance, once again singing along to the anthem tracks and soaking up the exciting atmosphere being created once again by The Enemy. Time and time again Tom, Andy and Liam have managed to ignite a room with their viberant mix of social sounds and upbeat tunes. Sending out a clear message that there will be more to come in 2009.

Andy Hopkins

Following The Enemy's performance the voting for the 2009 NME Awards opened up ahead of the London ceremony at London's Brixton Academy on February 25 next year.

For more on this story check www.nme.com and more exclusive pictures can be found at http://theenemy.eu/NME.aspx

Liam Watts

VIDEO: The Enemy - Had Enough / Aggro @ NME Launch Awards, Brixton

*More videos of The Enemy performing live at NME Awards Launch can be seen: HERE

http://www.theenemy.eu/ - for all the pictures and videos of The Enemy from the gig.

Mamma Mia! Becomes Fastest Selling DVD Ever!

Mamma Mia! The Movie has become the UK's fastest selling DVD ever this week, it sold 1,669,084 copies on Monday's release date, smashing the previous record held by Titanic - selling 560,000 more copies in the process. As we reported here, Mamma Mia! has already taken over £67m to become the UK's most popular film.

A spokesman for supermarket Asda said 300,000 copies had been sold in its stores with, 15% of shoppers buying a copy on Monday.

Official Charts Company managing director Martin Talbot said: "This is an absolutely phenomenal opening day for Mamma Mia! The Movie - we genuinely have never seen its like before in 10 years of tracking DVD retail sales."

*http://www.theenemy.eu/ - for the latest news on The Enemy

American Music Awards 2008 Winners List

Here is the full list of winners from the 2008 American Music Awards and a selection of pictures from the event. Click the images below to see bigger pictures of Rihanna, Pink, Beyonce and Leona Lewis:

Rihanna
Pink

Leona Lewis


Beyonce
*PICS: ABC/WIREIMAGE

Full List of winners at the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS 2008:

POP/ROCK:

Favorite Male Artist: Chris Brown
Favorite Female Artist: Rihanna
Favorite Band, Duo or Group: Daughtry
Favorite Album: "As I Am" Alicia Keys

COUNTRY:

Favorite Male Artist: Brad Paisley
Favorite Female Artist: Taylor Swift
Favorite Band, Duo or Group: Rascal Flatts
Favorite Album: "Carnival Ride" Carrie Underwood

SOUL/RHYTHM & BLUES:

Favorite Male Artist: Chris Brown
Favorite Female Artist: Rihanna
Favorite Album: "As I Am" Alicia Keys

RAP/HIP-HOP:

Favorite Band, Duo or Group: Three 6 Mafia
Favorite Male Artist: Kanye West
Favorite Album: "Graduation" Kanye West

ADULT CONTEMPORARY:

Favorite Artist: Jordin Sparks

LATIN MUSIC:

Favorite Artist: Enrique Iglesias

ALTERNATIVE ROCK MUSIC:

Favorite Artist: Linkin Park

CONTEMPORARY INSPIRATIONAL:

Favorite Artist: Third Day

SOUNDTRACKS:

Favorite Album: "Alvin and the Chipmunks"

T - Mobile FAVORITE BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST (ALL GENRES):

Jonas Brothers

Countdown: New Presenters Revealed

Countdown will continue with two new presenters next year, Channel 4 revealed yesterday. The longest running programme on the TV network has vowed to keep the show going with added zest. as Jeff Stelling from Sky Sports takes over the presenting role from Des O'Connor.

He will be joined by Rachel Riley, an Oxford graduate who replaces Carol Vorderman after she was ousted from the show after 26 years. Riley was chosen from more than 1,000 applicants by auditions in which they conducted an interview and solved problems. The final choice was from a shortlist of six who took a screen test solving numerical conundrums.

Jeff Stelling will continue to present Sky's Gillette Soccer Saturday and live Carling Cup and Champions League football as well as presenting Countdown. It is believed his pay on Countdown is substantially less than previous presenters, so keeping his other jobs may turn out to be a wise choice.

How long will Countdown survive without Carol Vorderman? It is only a matter of time before the long running show is finally axed from Channel 4.

Guy Ritchie Proves He's A Real English Gentleman

As news of the divorce settlement between Madonna and Guy Ritchie whips the media into a frenzy, something more profound appears in this story. Guy Ritchie proves himself as the true 'English Gentleman' because he didn't make the divorce about money, but about the children. Something so often looked over when celebrity couples go their separate ways.

The press have written volumes about Madonna's monetary value and how much they thought Guy would get or ask for in the much publicised divorce, and yet the British movie maker has maintained his integrity, even when the pressure was on. Divorce need not be about taking each other to the cleaners or demanding what is rightfully yours - sometimes it is about agreeing to go your separate ways amicably and peacefully. In this instance it appears Guy and Madonna have put the welfare of their children first, by agreeing they should spend equal time in the UK and US between both parents.

No divorce is ever without it's problems, but it is refreshing when two adults can put aside their differences and see the bigger picture. The same was true in the case of Billie Piper and Chris Evans, where the couple remained friends even after the divorce and Billie refused to divorce over money. While Madonna and Guy may not end up as close friends as Billie and Chris, at least they can hold their heads high, which is more than Heather Mills could do after her bitter divorce with Paul McCartney.

Sargeant Quits Strictly Come Dancing

John Sargeant on Strictly Come Dancing

*PIC: PA/BBC

John Sargeant has sensationally quit the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing contest after fears he could actually win the contest. The ex-political journalist has been constantly slammed for his poor dancing skills by the judges yet loved by the public. Week after week millions of viewers have warmed to his dance moves and consistently voted to keep him in the contest.

At today's press conference John Sargeant talked of his decision to leave saying, "It's like when you decide when you leave a party, and the time to leave a party is before the fight starts, and I think that's really what's happened on this occasion."

Bruce Forsyth, Strictly Come Dancing co-host said, "He was put in the most awkward position, looking at the other dancers and knowing they were better than him. He must have felt guilty in a way." Yet John was worried this may have been a joke too far as concerns grew that he could actually win the contest. Sargeant will return on Saturday for a farewell dance.

What do YOU think?

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Star Trek Video Trailer and Pictures

Star Trek just got sexy if the new trailer video and pictures are to be believed. Captain Kirk (Chris Pine) gets his kit off for some steamy action with Uhura (Zoe Saldana), as seen below. The trailer gives the sci-fi series a much needed sexy make-over, with a new younger cast and plenty of action and adventure.

Mr Spock (Zachary Quinto) is a central storyline as we follow him on his journey to the Starship Enterprise. Original Spock, Leonard Nimoy also appears in the movie which is expected to hit UK cinema screens on May 8th 2009.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

*Pics: Paramount Pictures

James Bond Tops US Box Office

Daniel Craig as James Bond

The latest James Bond movie 'Quantum of Solace' has enjoyed a record opening weekend in the US, beating the previous Bond movie ( Casino Royale) by $27m to top this week's Box Office US charts. Die Another Day had been the highest 007 film with $47m gross on it's first weekend. The initial figure of $70.4m was lowered after ticket sales estimation figures filtered through.

This follows a record breaking £15.5m opening weekend in the UK at the beginning of November and a world-wide income of $250m after just two weeks general release.

The US Top Ten:

1. (-) Quantum Of Solace - $67,500,000
2. (1) Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa - $36,130,000
3. (2) Role Models - $11,710,000
4. (3) High School Musical 3: Senior Year - $5,879,000
5. (4) Changeling - $4,247,000
6. (5) Zack And Miri Make A Porno - $3,200,000
7. (6) Soul Men - $2,428,000
8. (9) The Secret Life Of Bees - $2,400,000
9. (7) Saw V - $1,790,000
10. (8) The Haunting Of Molly Hartley - $1,649,000

Robbie Williams In Take That TV Show?

Robbie Williams

*PIC: Guardian

Robbie Williams may be about to appear with Take That in their 'An Audience With' Christmas TV programme. It depends which Sunday newspaper you read of course, The People believe Robbie Williams will be in the audience as a guest. Yet according to the News of the World, Gary Barlow is blocking Robbie's return for fear of losing his leadership status.

Take That will be appearing on this Saturday's X Factor and filming for 'An Audience With' takes place in Manchester on Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd November.

All will be revealed in due course..........

Kylie To Host Brit Awards 2009

Kylie Minogue

Kylie Minogue is to present the Brit Awards in February 2009, according to an ITV insider. The Aussie pop star will team up with James Corden and Mathew Horne (Gavin and Stacey) in hosting the music awards show from London's Earl's Court.

Last year Ozzy Osbourne and wife Sharon presented the Brit Awards on ITV, watched by millions, making it the biggest music awards bash in the UK. Next year could be the best yet with the Pet Shop Boys already being announced as winners of the Outstanding Contribution To Music award.

The Brit Awards show takes place on Wednesday 18th February 2009.

Top of the Pops To Return in 2009?

*pic: wikimedia

Top of the Pops could be making a return to the BBC according to media stories in the Telegraph and Times. The programme was axed after 42 years in March 2006 as reported on 'robmacca's entertainment news'. The decision to end the popular music programme caused an outcry, with Oasis singer Noel Gallagher being one of many who have called for it's return. The BBC have now confirmed that there will be two special shows - one on Christmas Day and one on New Years Eve, presented by Fearne Cotton and Reggie Yates, but deny any plans for a return to a weekly TOTP.

X Factor judge, Simon Cowell even offered to buy the rights to show TOTP on ITV, but was turned down by the BBC. The corporation may yet bring back a Christmas TOTP this year, leaving the door open for the show to return to our screens during 2009.

While TV has evolved and Top of the Tops could no longer command 14m viewers like it did at it's peak in the 1970's, it is believed the iconic music programme could cater for the YouTube generation. Exclusive videos could easily be shared through popular websites.

Carol Vorderman's Final Countdown

Carol Vorderman outside TV studio

*PIC: Daily Mail / John Mather

Carol Vorderman filmed her very last Countdown show for Channel 4 today, in what has been described as "emotional" by The Press Association. The final Countdown programme featuring Carol Vorderman and Des O'Connor will be aired on Friday 12th December on Channel 4 and will be followed by a special tribute programme presented by Gyles Brandreth.

It was all smiles and tears as Carol attended the Yorkshire Television Studios for the final time after spending just over 26 years working on Countdown. Carol was the first woman to appear on Channel 4 when it was launched on Tuesday 2nd November 1982. As reported here, Carol was forced to quit earlier this year when TV chiefs demanded she took a 90% pay cut.

Carol Vorderman told reporters, "It is more like a party atmosphere in there." She also appeared with her 16 year old daughter, Katie who said, "'I was here as a baby and I have a photo of me here, and now I'm here for the last show". In the audience were her 11 year old son Cameron, mother and celebrities for the farewell show which Carol described as "a very special send-off." Talking about her departure from Countdown, Carol concluded, "I can't believe it has come to an end".

Real Reason Laura White Got Booted From X Factor

Laura White

*PIC: WENN

The real reason Laura White got booted off the X Factor was nothing to do with her singing but has more to do with her fashion sense we can reveal. She had been the bookies favourite to win this year's X Factor competition then was sensationally voted off the show on Saturday by the judges.

The frumpy Laura was being managed by Girls Aloud Cheryl Cole, who should have known better and yet ignored comments made by Simon Cowell about the appearance of Laura White. The picture above, taken on Monday outside the ITV studios, give a prime example of why Laura White failed to impress.

Forget all the protests about getting Laura reinstated, get her to the High Street with a stylist and then come back!

Geri Halliwell Splits From Dancing Lover

Geri Halliwell and Ivan ‘Flipz’ Velez part company

Gerl Halliwell seems destined to remain a single mother as it became public that the Spice Girl has split up from her backing dancer Ivan Velez. The couple became an item after the Spice Girls Reunion Tour last December and things had progressed, as Geri and daughter Bluebell spent most of the summer in Los Angeles with Ivan.

Yet, like the Spice Girls tour - all good things must come to an end and it appears Geri Halliwell called time on the relationship, ending it via a phone call several weeks ago. Close friends say Ivan had been hoping Geri would change her mind, according to this weeks Closer magazine.

'She couldn't deal with the distance between them and thought it was best to end it before he got even more hurt,' a source is quoted telling the magazine.

How much of the story is true is any body's guess, but I'm sure Geri Halliwell will have no shortage of offers from available bachelors!

Girls Aloud 'Out of Control' Tops Album Chart

Girls Aloud have achieved their first #1 studio album this week in the UK with their fifth studio album 'Out of Control'. They knocked Pink off the top spot after just one week also beating Enrique Iglesias with his Greatest Hits and Razorlight (Slipway Fires) to secure the number one album.

The album success follows a fantastic week for Girls Aloud who have recently enjoyed their fourth #1 single (The Promise), making it a record-breaking 18th consecutive Top 10 hit. They have also confirmed they will be touring during 2009, dispelling any rumours of a split.

Girls Aloud Announce 2009 Tour

Girls Aloud on Tour

Girls Aloud have announced they will be touring the UK during May 2009, promoting their new album 'Out of Control'. The chart topping girls said it would be one of their slickest, biggest and most exciting tours ever. Girls Aloud recently celebrated their fourth UK number one with their latest single, 'The Promise' - taken from their new studio album released this week.

The dates announced so far are listed below, with the two Irish dates added, but check out the official Girls Aloud website or Ticketmaster for any additional dates:

30th April - Belfast, Odyssey Arena

2nd May - Dublin, The O2

5th May - Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
8th May - Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
11th May - Nottingham Trent FM Arena
12th May - Trent FM Arena Nottingham
15th May - Sheffield Arena
16th May - Manchester MEN Arena
19th May - Liverpool Echo Arena
20th May - Birmingham NIA
23rd May - London The O2 Arena
27th May - Wembley Arena
29th May - MEN Arena Manchester
30th May - SECC Glasgow
1st June - NIA Birmingham
3rd June - Liverpool Echo Arena
5th June - Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle

MTV Music Awards: The Winners

Paul McCartney performs @ MTV Awards

*PIC: REUTERS/Phil Noble

Here are the winners of the 15th annual MTV Europe Music Awards:

Album of the Year — Britney Spears, "Blackout"

Act of 2008 — Britney Spears

New Act — Katy Perry

Ultimate Urban — Kanye West

Most Addictive Track — Pink, "So What"

Headliner — Tokio Hotel

Rock Out — 30 Seconds to Mars

Video Star — 30 Seconds to Mars, "A Beautiful Life"

Best Act Ever — Rick Astley

Artists' Choice — Lil Wayne

Europe's Favorite Act — Emre Aydin, Turkey

Ultimate Legend — Paul McCartney

Beyonce and Kanye West were among the performers in Liverpool as the city hosted this years MTV Music Awards. Around 10,000 music lovers packed out Echo Arena as Britney Spears and 30 Seconds To Mars became double award winners with Paul McCartney stealing the show in his home city.

Take That perform at the MTV Awards