Hometown celeb and TV soundtrack mainstay join forces to support KC charity at free concert – The familiar sound of seasonal bell ringers will be replaced by live music this Friday in Kansas City’s Power & Light District. The Fray and American Idol winner David Cook will headline “Rock the Red Kettle,” a free benefit concert to support the Salvation Army’s local charitable programs and holiday efforts. The event aims to boost donations and awareness through a lively evening of performances that bring together hometown talent and national acts.
Martina McBride responds to Billy Gilman’s performance of “Anyways” on The Voice
@BillyGilman just saw you do “Anyways” on @NBCTheVoice and it BLEW ME AWAY. And that clip of you onstage with me… I remember that like it was yesterday!
— Martina McBride (tweet from November 29, 2016)
Lady Gaga backs Christian Cuevas’ cover of “Million Reasons”
Go @ccuevasmusic — you’ve got my vote! (shared with links to the performance)
— Lady Gaga (tweet from November 29, 2016)
Kelly Clarkson: Hamilton Mixtape was “literally the hardest thing I’ve ever done in the studio” – In an interview discussing her contribution to The Hamilton Mixtape, Kelly Clarkson explained how she first became involved: late in her pregnancy and newly signed with Atlantic Records, she was sent a Hamilton track at 1 a.m. and reacted strongly to the subject matter. Clarkson described the emotional challenge of recording material tied to such weighty themes while navigating her own personal circumstances. Her candid comments highlight how surprising and demanding the project proved to be for her as an artist.
Kelly Clarkson album update
Listening to two songs for my album we’re working on — #mariah meets #aretha meets #whitney meets #mefromidoldays meets #2017 meets #yallaintready ?
….meets #envogue ????
— Kelly Clarkson (tweets from November 27, 2016)
Carrie Underwood wraps Storyteller Tour
Carrie Underwood closed out her Storyteller Tour and took a moment to thank her opening acts, including fellow Oklahomans and The Voice alums The Swon Brothers. In an Instagram post sharing a photo and a heartfelt caption, Underwood reflected on their shared roots and the long journey from singing together in local venues to touring nationally.
Thank you so much @theswonbrothers for being on this adventure with us! It’s hard to believe we all started out as kids with big dreams singing everywhere in Oklahoma together! We sure have come a long way. I’m glad to say I knew you “back when…” Love you guys… #TheStorytellerTour
— Carrie Underwood (Instagram post dated Nov 28, 2016)
Jordin Sparks responds to backlash after video of an encounter circulates – In a widely discussed clip, Jordin Sparks explained that she arrived at a friend’s home late at night, around 1 a.m. Since unexpected knocks are rare at that house, the homeowner briefly greeted her daughter holding a firearm intended for protection. The encounter was followed by laughter and was discussed afterward; Sparks later engaged with critics online who attacked the homeowner over the situation.
Danny Gokey and family attend David Archuleta concert
I’m pretty sure I found my son’s doppelgänger. @davidarchie (photo attached)
— Danny Gokey (tweet from November 29, 2016)
The Voice season 3 winner Cassadee Pope has some holiday fun
If you’re still contemplating what to get someone for Christmas, two words: PLASMA CAR! So fun. #imcominovertour @_jmerrigan (photo)
— Cassadee Pope (tweet from November 28, 2016)
‘Hairspray Live!’ cast talks about delivering a timely message – Jennifer Hudson, who joins the cast as Motormouth Maybelle, will perform a duet with Ariana Grande on the finale song “Come So Far (Got So Far to Go).” Hudson, a Broadway veteran, said she was excited about the energetic duet and enjoyed recording it with Grande. Cast members have emphasized that the production’s themes and music feel particularly resonant, and that the timing is right to bring this story and its message to a wide television audience.
Darren Criss to serve as behind-the-scenes digital host for NBC’s Hairspray Live! – Glee alum Darren Criss has been named the multiplatform host for NBC’s live telecast of Hairspray Live!. In this role he will provide fans with behind-the-scenes access across digital platforms, check in on live ’60s-themed viewing parties around the country, interact with social media influencers, and create live content during the broadcast. Criss will also appear on the pre-show special “The Countdown to Hairspray Live!” alongside other hosts.
James Hinchcliffe’s Dancing with the Stars appearance grew from long-standing INDYCAR ties – The relationship between INDYCAR and Dancing with the Stars dates back to the 2007 Indianapolis 500 and the crossover appeal of athletes and entertainers. INDYCAR maintained contact with show officials over the years, pitching drivers for participation. Several notable drivers were considered for the show; Hinchcliffe ultimately joined the cast after casting discussions that included multiple series champions and drivers. The move reflects the ongoing cultural crossover between motorsports and mainstream television entertainment.