Phillip Phillips kicks off Matchbox 20 tour
Phillip Phillips has begun touring with Matchbox 20, opening the run at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The pairing brings together the American Idol winner and the veteran rock band for a string of live dates, giving audiences a mix of Phillips’ rootsy, singer-songwriter material and Matchbox 20’s catalog of radio-friendly rock. Fans in Tulsa got the first taste of this combination on opening night at the Hard Rock stage.
New film buzz: Black Nativity updates
Entertainment reporter Grady Smith noted that Fox Searchlight is preparing to release a faith-based musical titled Black Nativity, which features a cast that includes Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and Jennifer Hudson. The project has drawn early comparisons to major musical adaptations, signaling strong expectations about its scope and emotional impact as it moves toward release.
Tenna Torres on a memorable moment with Mariah Carey
“American Idol” contestant Tenna Torres reflected on a deeply emotional encounter with Mariah Carey, saying that performing for her felt like a dream come true. Torres, who grew up and continues to live in Queens, New York, presented Carey with photos from a prior meeting and then delivered a soulful rendition of Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend,” which moved Carey to tears. Torres, who performs regularly at local casinos and New York City venues, described rewatching the televised moment to relive the experience.
Colton Dixon discusses A Messenger and life after Idol
Colton Dixon, another notable Season 11 American Idol alumnus, has released his album A Messenger and is seeing early success, including radio attention for the song “You Are” on Christian stations. Dixon is one of the few contestants from his season to follow up with a full-length record, joining winner Phillip Phillips in taking the next professional step. He and his band are scheduled to support Christian rock group Third Day on an arena tour, a move that brings Dixon into a larger live-audience circuit as he builds his post-Idol career.
Kelly Clarkson: “Life imitates art” with new single
Kelly Clarkson says her single “Catch My Breath” reflects the ups and downs of life, and that sentiment mirrors the arc of her own career. Since winning the inaugural season of American Idol in 2002, Clarkson has released five studio albums and sold more than 20 million records worldwide. Her achievements include two Grammy Awards, a string of Billboard honors, and recognition in the country music community through a CMA trophy and two ACM awards for her duet with Jason Aldean on “Don’t You Wanna Stay.”
Katharine McPhee films rainy scene for Smash
On a chilly, rainy Monday in New York City, Katharine McPhee and Jack Davenport shot scenes for the TV series Smash. McPhee, described as bundled in a black hooded coat, a gray sweater, and a pink scarf, huddled close to her co-star during a filmed sequence. The on-set images captured the atmospheric conditions and the chemistry between the actors as they worked through the scene.
Nashville spoilers: Scarlett, Gunnar and a new arrangement
Preview photos from the ABC drama Nashville suggest tension and shifting alliances in the February 6 episode. Scarlett, facing financial pressure, appears to accept a significant offer from her friend Gunnar, and shots featuring moving boxes hint that the two may be exploring a new living arrangement. The change is likely to provoke a strong reaction from Avery, setting the stage for emotional conflict in the storyline.
Country music and the gun debate after Sandy Hook
In the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy, conversations about gun culture have touched the country music world. Artists like Blake Shelton—who has openly embraced firearm ownership and once hosted a celebrity shooting event tied to charity—have become focal points in discussions about whether elements of country music promote a pro-gun image. Many artists contacted about the topic declined to comment publicly, and the debate continues to consider how personal beliefs, promotional events, and public statements shape the genre’s perception.
Adam Levine on fitness and focus
Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine graces the cover of Men’s Health and used the interview to discuss how yoga has influenced his fitness and state of mind. Seen in a fitted black T-shirt and jeans on the cover, Levine credits yoga with reshaping his physique and helping him develop a calmer, more focused approach to life and work. He described the practice as instrumental in improving decision-making and maintaining balance amid a busy career.