RSS Feed

Coffee Talk
Weekdays 6-10am
with Doug McDowell
Join Doug McDowell for Coffee Talk every weekday morning from 6 to 10
Click for more


Follow us for Live, Local, Late-Breaking News


Subscribe to KBKWSubscribe to KBKW, and stay informed from your inbox.

Listen to KBKW Live with your Winamp Player

George Michael Still Hospitalized Days After Car Accident for "Observation"

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 6:00 PM

Samir Hussein/Redferns via Getty ImagesDespite the fact that George Michael's rep said the singer only suffered "superficial cuts and bruises" in a car crash last week, he's still in the hospital, reports the BBC.

George was a passenger in a Range Rover that was involved in a car accident in the U.K. last Thursday, and he was found on the road by paramedics, the BBC says.  He was then airlifted to a medical center in London.  

The spokeswoman confirmed to the BBC that George was still in the hospital, and added, "We are keen to stress it's purely as a precaution for observation.  He did suffer a couple of bumps and bruises to the head, and that's why they are keeping him in -- to keep an eye on him."

She added, "He is doing better.  He is making good progress and is looking forward to getting out."

But the British paper The Sun paints a more serious picture of the accident, which did not involve a third party.  A driver on the scene, who was forced to hit the brakes when she saw George in the road, tells the paper, "I saw blood everywhere and a man on the ground...I asked what had gone on and was told he tried to open the car door and shut it again because it wasn’t shut properly and apparently fell out at 70 mph."

She added, "There was a nasty cut on his forehead and the back of his head.  There was blood all down his face and on his teeth.  He was breathing and conscious but in shock...He was lucky he didn’t die.”

The hit-making singer appears to have nine lives.  According to Billboard, in 2004, he was involved in two car accidents, and another one in 2006.  His license was yanked in 2007, but when it was restored, he got into another accident: In 2010, the car he was driving slammed into a photo processing store in London.  He was then sentenced to eight weeks in prison after a judge found he'd been driving under the influence of pot and prescription medication.

In addition, in 2011, George suffered a bout of pneumonia that nearly killed him, and then last year canceled a tour due to "major anxiety," a side effect of that near-death experience.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Madonna's MDNA Tour DVD Coming in September

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 3:00 PM

Sara De Boer/Startraks Photo via ABCMadonna's MDNA tour, which just won her the Top Touring Artist honor at the Billboard Music Awards on Sunday night, is coming to DVD in September. 

That's according to the star herself, who told Billboard that despite rumors she's been working on a new album, "I just finished editing the DVD of my concert, so I haven't had any free time."

Speaking with Extra, Madonna said she loved her MDNA tour because two of her four children got to be a part of the production.  "To me that’s my idea of fun, to be creative, to do what I love to do and see my kids working around me and earning their way in life," she explained.  "My daughter [Lourdes] worked in the costume department, and she loved it.  My son [Rocco] was in the show, and he loved it.”

If you can't wait until September for the MDNA tour DVD, the concert will air on EPIX on June 22.  There's a trailer for it online now.

Madonna also told Extra a funny story about posing for a photo with Kim Kardashian at the star-studded Met Gala earlier this month.  It turns out it isn't the first time that Madonna met the reality star, who's expecting a baby with boyfriend Kanye West.

"I met her years and years ago when she was a little girl, believe it or not," Madonna laughed.  "She told me she was a huge fan of mine, and it was during the time I was wearing all of the rubber bracelets on my arms.  I took off all of the bracelets and gave them to her and then I completely forgot about it.  She reminded me when I saw her the other night.  Now she's a pregnant lady!"

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Did Katy Perry Contribute to KPatz's Breakup?

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 12:00 PM

Courtesy: Katy PerryDo Twilight fans have Katy Perry to blame for the breakup of Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson?  One source says yes, in a way.

The two stars reportedly split over the past few days, when Pattinson was spotted moving out of Stewart's house, according to E!  And a source tells E! that Katy, who's been friendly with the couple for a long time, "played a role, as one of many reasons" in the breakup.  For example, earlier this month, Katy and Pattinson were spotted leaving the Met Gala in New York City together.

However, K-Stew's cheating scandal with her Snow White & the Huntsman director may also have contributed to the split, according to E!.  People had reported that Kristen and Robert had already been fighting a lot and not spending any time together.  Meanwhile, Katy's been vacationing with friends in the Bahamas.

Coyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Artists React to the Oklahoma Tornado Tragedy

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 12:00 PM

Oklahoma County SheriffSince a devastating tornado ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, on Monday, killing at least 24 people, the world has taken to Twitter to express their support, prayers for love, and to talk about how people can help.  Among those reacting were many of music's top stars.  Here's a roundup of some of their thoughts:

Rob Thomas: "Please send thoughts, prayers, blood and donations to Oklahoma. Truly devastating and heartbreaking."

Cher, who celebrated her birthday on Monday: "My birthday was joyous! Family came over..Oh The CAKE ! 1 thing made my day sad..the devastation in Oklahoma ! We need 2 say prayers 4 Them"

Katy Perry: "Sending out prayers for the people of Oklahoma tonight. Let's help, just text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate 10 dollars to those in need."

Josh Groban: "Just woke up in Finland to the devastating updates on the news. Just heartbreaking. Stay strong, Oklahoma."

Nicki Minaj: "Love to Oklahoma"

Alicia Keys: "So much going on in the world...I'm saddened by the devastating news… My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected #PrayForOklahoma"

Sara Bareilles: "‏My heart breaks for what's happened. Sending love. Text REDCROSS to 90999 or there's a list of others, http://cbsn.ws/12I3xUz"

Sheryl Crow: "Reading the news & continue to pray for the missing in Oklahoma, especially the school children, and all those affected. #Oklahoma"

Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, who's originally from Oklahoma: My heart goes out to the people in Oklahoma affected by this insane storm. So close to where I grew up, I can't believe the devastation

Fergie: Sending thoughts & prayers out 2 the families impacted by today's tornado in OKC. My heart is w/ u. #PrayForOklahoma

David Cook, who lived in Tulsa, OK, for a time: "Hope everyone in Oklahoma stays safe and out of harm's way."

Ricky Martin: "My heart goes out to everyone affected by the devastating #Oklahoma City #tornado. Sending love."

Backstreet Boys' AJ McLean: "My prayers go out to all the people of Oklahoma who have lost a loved one to this horrible tornado deal! Time to rebuild so help if u can!"

Michelle Branch: "I just heard the news about Oklahoma. So devastating. Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to help tornado victims."

Simon Cowell: "Oh my god. Just read about Oklahoma. My thoughts and prayers to everyone affected."

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Maroon 5 Postpones European Tour Until January

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 9:00 AM

Maroon 5 Press Here PublicityMaroon 5 has rescheduled several upcoming European tour dates due to what the band describes as "unforeseen scheduling conflicts."

Adam Levine and company were supposed to visit the U.K., Scotland, Ireland, France and the Netherlands in late June and early July.  Those dates have now been postponed until next January.

Robin Thicke will appear at the rescheduled shows, which you can review on Maroon5.com.

Adam says in a statement, "We are truly sorry for any inconvenience we have caused our European fans and promise that when we come over in January we will put on a show to remember!"

Maroon 5's joint U.S. tour with Kelly Clarkson, which launches in August, remains unaffected.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Jon Bon Jovi "Blessed" that Band's Songs Are Part of the "Patchwork of Pop Culture"

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 6:00 AM

Facebook.com/BonJoviBon Jovi is currently out on the European leg of their Because We Can world tour, and they've still got a long way to go.  After Europe, they'll play the U.K., then return to the U.S. for summer stadium dates, and then they head to Brazil and Australia.  But no matter where the band plays, the one thing that strikes Jon Bon Jovi about the fans in the audience every night is their ages: young, old and everything in between.

Describing Bon Jovi fans as "multi-generational,"  Jon tells ABC News Radio that he's proud of the group's broad appeal, especially since they've been making records for decades.

"We've been around for 30 years and we're doing the kind of business that we do out on the road...we're very lucky. We're very blessed," he says, adding, "I think this is that kind of a band that has crossed to a place where the songs are both your parents' songs and your songs."

Attempting to explain this concept, Jon points to the Rolling Stones, who of course have been around a lot longer than Bon Jovi, but whose songs also have staying power.

"Those songs are just a part of the patchwork of what is pop culture. And you just think that they've always been around and that band has always been around," Jon tells ABC News Radio. "And so we've been around long enough that songs like 'Livin' on a Prayer,' 'Wanted Dead or Alive'... those are in the vernacular now. They're just a part of the patchwork of pop culture. And your mom might know it as well as you do because it's been on the radio for 27 years."

Bon Jovi performs in Oslo, Norway Tuesday night.  There's still no word as to when guitarist Richie Sambora will rejoin the tour, if at all.  He recently wrote on Twitter, regarding his absence, "Thanks 4 your notes & concerns. I'm doing f**king great. This is a private matter but please know I love the band and you fans!"

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Madonna Presenting at London's Sound of Change Concert

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 3:00 AM

Facebook.com/MadonnaMadonna has been announced as a presenter for an upcoming concert in London promoting improved education, health and justice for women and girls around the world.

The concert, dubbed The Sound of Change Live, will be presented by Gucci’s Chime for Change organization at Twickenham Stadium on June 1. The lineup includes Beyonce, Ellie Goulding and Florence + the Machine.

Madonna says in a statement, "60 percent of the children in the world NOT in school, are girls! 2/3 of the world's illiterate are WOMEN! I Do NOT accept this. We need to change this and we WILL CHANGE THIS!"

More information on the concert is available at ChimeforChange.org.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

"The Voice" Recap: The Top Ten Perform

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 3:00 AM

NBCThe top 10 artists on The Voice returned to the stage Monday night as the live playoffs continued.

For the first time since the battle rounds, each team’s mentor dropped by rehearsals to dispense advice. Blake Shelton reunited with Sheryl Crow; Adam Levine was again joined by Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott; Usher invited back Pharrell Williams; and Shakira brought in Cee Lo Green, a coach on the first three seasons of The Voice, who stepped in for usual mentor Joel Madden. The Good Charlotte member couldn’t make it due to his commitment to the Australian version of The Voice.

At the start of the broadcast, host Carson Daly acknowledged the tornado that struck the Oklahoma City area on Monday, killing dozens. He sent prayers to all those affected, then asked Blake, an Oklahoma native, for his thoughts. Blake said his family is safe, but it was difficult for him to do the show while Oklahoma residents are dealing with the aftermath of the tornado.

Multiple times during the broadcast, social media correspondent Christina Milian encouraged viewers to make a donation to the Red Cross.

Holly Tucker of Team Blake was the first performer of the night. The country singer showed off a different side of herself with the hymn "How Great Thou Art." Usher said he enjoyed what he heard, but it was a departure from what he expected. Blake, presumably referring to the devastation in Oklahoma, said it was an appropriate song choice because it expresses faith and hope.

Judith Hill, a former background singer for the late Michael Jackson, was brought to tears when she found out her coach Adam had assigned her the pop icon’s hit "The Way You Make Me Feel." Her rendition was more of a jazzy number at first before staying true to the original version. Usher said it made him remember how much he misses Michael. Adam noted that the audience was very receptive to Judith’s homage to a musician to whom she felt close.

The Swon Brothers of Team Blake, who are from Oklahoma, told Carson Daly that their family is OK, and that they send their thoughts and prayers to the tornado victims. They sang Randy Houser’s “How Country Feels,” to Blake’s approval.

Adam selected Kelly Clarkson’s “Breakaway” for Amber Carrington because, he believes, she can cross over from pop to country, just like the American Idol season-one winner. As it happens, Adam’s band, Maroon 5, is touring with Kelly this summer. Blake said it was a smart decision by Adam to move Amber into Kelly Clarkson territory. Adam said Amber proved that she has a strong voice.

Team Shakira’s Sasha Allen tackled “Next to Me,” by Scottish R&B star Emeli Sande. Usher said he was happy to see Sasha having fun on stage. Shakira added that she was proud that Sasha showed how versatile she can be.

Josiah Hawley, one of two remaining Usher protégés, performed “Clocks,” by Coldplay. Shakira suggested that it was too much of a challenge to channel Coldplay because they have such a distinct sound. In addition, Adam thought Josiah’s performance was shaky in spots, but Usher reassured his artist that he will continue to “nurture that voice.”

Sixteen-year-old Danielle Bradbery of Team Blake was given "Heads Carolina, Tails California" by Jo Dee Messina. Blake said she is so carefree, and that she can deliver a country lyric that audiences can relate to.

Team Shakira’s Kris Thomas, who described himself as the only male R&B artist left in the competition, covered the Miguel hit “Adorn.” Adam liked the performance but warned that Kris seems to be overthinking things at times -- an opinion that Usher shared. Shakira scoffed at the criticism, saying Kris has a unique voice.

Sarah Simmons told her coach, Adam, that she’d performed so many ballads on the show that she wanted to try something different. She ended up with “Mamma Knows Best,” by Jessie J. Blake said Sarah turned a corner by displaying a rock ‘n’ roll edge. Adam declared it to be the performance of the night.

Michelle Chamuel of Team Usher closed the show with Pink’s “Just Give Me a Reason.” Adam said all of the coaches are proud of Michelle. In a nod to Adam and Adam’s critique of Sarah Simmons, Usher said Michelle delivered the best performance of the night.

Also on Monday’s show, Adam and his Maroon 5 band mates performed their new single, “Love Somebody.” You can watch the video for the song at NBC.com.

Two artists will be eliminated on the results show, airing Tuesday night on NBC at 9 p.m. Eastern time.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio Join "The X Factor" Judges’ Panel

Posted on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 3:00 AM

Facebook.com/KellyRowland; Facebook.com/PaulinaRubio The rumors are true.  Fox announced Monday night that one-time Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland and Mexican singer Paulina Rubio will be joining Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato on the judges’ panel when The X Factor returns this fall.

“It’s taken more than a decade, but I’m delighted to finally be on a panel with three girls (I think!), Simon declared in a statement. "Paulina and Kelly both have great taste and massive experience in the music industry and together with Demi, this is going to be a fun panel. It just feels like the time to do something different,” Simon added.

Rowland and Rubio fill the vacancies left by the departures of Britney Spears and L.A. Reid.

Rowland served as a judge on the British version of The X Factor in 2011.  "I am very exciting to be reuniting with Simon Cowell and The X Factor family, said Rowland in a statement. "It feels great to be able to take this journey here at home in the states."

Rubio, who has sold more than 20 million records and released 10 studio albums, said in a statement, "I love The X Factor.  I can't wait to find the next big music star here in America.  Simon. be careful what you wish for. Let's see if you are ready to handle me, empieza la fiesta, amigo."

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...

Barbra Streisand Receiving Honorary Degree from Israeli University

Posted on Monday, May 20, 2013 at 6:00 PM

Facebook.com/BarbraStreisandBarbra Streisand will be honored by Israel's Hebrew University of Jerusalem next month.

The university announced Monday that it will bestow upon Barbra an honorary doctor of philosophy degree, “in recognition of her professional achievements, outstanding humanitarianism, leadership in the realm of human and civil rights, and dedication to Israel and the Jewish people.”

The degree will be presented during a ceremony scheduled for June 17.

Aside from Barbra’s Jewish background, she established a building for Jewish studies, named after her late father, at the university in 1984. That was one year after the release of the Jewish-themed film Yentl, which she directed and in which she starred.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

more...