
Billboard Bits serves up the best bite-sized nuggets of music news and gossip.
Is Kim Kardashian Recording an Album?
Kim Kardashian may soon be famous for more than just her beauty. According to reports, the socialite-turned-reality TV star is currently recording music for her debut album, and she’s hitting the studio with none other than hitmaker The-Dream (Rihanna, Beyonce) to get it done. Says a source who’s attended the sessions, “Kim’s got a really good voice.” We’ll believe it when we hear it. ( TMZ)
Juanes to Give All-Spanish Performance in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Latin superstar Juanes will give the first all-Spanish language performance in the 84-year history of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade later this month. Juanes will join the list of performers including Kanye West, Jimmy Fallon and the Roots, and India.Arie for the parade that passes by more than 3.5 million people on the streets of Manhattan and is broadcast to 50 million more watching at home.
Shaq Channels Beyonce on Halloween
Basketball superstar Shaq got in touch with his inner diva for Halloween when he dressed up as his female alter-ego, Shaquita. The Celtics giant donned a wig, fake breasts and a tight shimmery top for Halloween, giving an enthusiastic lip-synching performance to Beyoncé‘s “Sweet Dreams.” Shaq was not afraid to touch himself as he mouthed the words, shaking his massive arms in a passionate pantomime to the track. (PopEater)
Slash Calls Off His Divorce
Former Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash dismissed the divorce he filed against wife Perla Ferrar two months ago, with his rep confirming today that the couple has reconciled. The two have been married for nine years and have two children, of which Slash tried to gain joint custody during divorce proceedings. (People)
Garbage to Reunite for Tour, New Album
Garbage frontwoman Shirley Manson confirmed last week that the ’90s alt-rock band behind “Stupid Girl” is reuniting for a new album and tour. Speaking with the students at the University of West Scotland, Manson confirmed that the band has recorded new material. As a bit of advice to the students, Manson added, “When you get into a band, whether you are — the main writer or whatever — split the money equal ways. Then you will have a happy band. They are doing the same work as you.” (Herald Scotland via Spinner)
Rihanna, Eminem, Drake, Rick Ross Nominated for Africa Music Awards
The nominees for the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards were announced today, with Nigerian and South African musicians dominating the ballot. Earning three nominations is Nigerian duo P-Square, followed by two nominations each for 2FACE, Wande Coal and Banky W. Fally Ipupa leads the Francophone charge, weighing in with four MAMA award nominations – the most of any artist. Rihanna, Eminem, Drake and Rick Ross are nominated in MAMA’s best international category. The Africa Music Awards ceremony will take place in Lagos on Dec. 11.
(Reporting by Monica Herrera, Jillian Mapes, Megan Vick, Walter Frazier and Diane Coetzer)