Look To The Stars News: Aretha Franklin

Paul McCartney Honored As MusiCares Person Of The Year

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Beatles legend Paul McCartney was honored as the 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year at a special event in Los Angeles on Friday, celebrating his exceptional artistic achievements as well as his philanthropic work.

The sold-out tribute to McCartney benefits MusiCares’ emergency financial assistance and addiction recovery programs. Proceeds from the annual Person of the Year tribute — now in its 22nd year — provide essential support for MusiCares, which ensures that members of the music community have a place to turn in times of financial, medical and personal need.

Hosted by Eddie Izzard, performers included Cirque du Soleil, Tony Bennett, Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas, Duane Eddy, Norah Jones, Alicia Keys, James Taylor, Diana Krall, Neil Young with Crazy Horse, Sergio Mendes and Katy Perry. The evening also featured a special performance by 14-time GRAMMY winning artist and 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year Paul McCartney.

Stars To Come Out For Paul McCartney At Charity Gala

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:30:00 +0000

An impressive star-studded cast will come together to honor 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year honoree Paul McCartney during a sold-out gala on Feb. 10 in Los Angeles, two days prior to the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards.

Hosted by actor/comedian Eddie Izzard, artists set to perform are current GRAMMY nominees Tony Bennett, Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas, and Katy Perry; GRAMMY-winning artists Duane Eddy, Norah Jones, Alicia Keys, Diana Krall, James Taylor, and Neil Young with Crazy Horse; two-time Latin GRAMMY-winning artist Sergio Mendes; and the cast of Cirque du Soleil’s “Love” Beatles tribute show. The evening will also feature a special performance by McCartney.

The 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year gala, which will celebrate McCartney’s exceptional artistic achievements and philanthropic work, will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction sponsored by the Starkey Hearing Foundation that will offer an exclusive selection of luxury items, VIP experiences and celebrity memorabilia for bidding guests. The auction will be followed by a gala dinner sponsored by AEG Live, and a star-studded tribute concert sponsored by Acura/ELS. This year’s red-carpet press arrivals will be sponsored by Kinect for Xbox 360 and Dance Central 2. Other event supporters include CenterStaging — A SoundCheck LA Company, Classic Wines of California, Delta Airlines, Double Platinum, Gibson, Global Art, Heineken, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Jackson Limo, Korbel, Patron Spirits Company, Pepsi, and Sweetwater.

Paul McCartney To Perform At MusiCares Person Of The Year Event

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:45:00 +0000

Legendary singer/songwriter, 14-time Grammy winner and 2012 MusiCares Person of the Year honoree Paul McCartney is set to perform at the sold-out star-studded tribute concert, taking place in Los Angeles during Grammy Week on Feb. 10.

The MusiCares Person of the Year tribute is one of the most prestigious events held during GRAMMY Week. Proceeds from the dinner and concert will provide essential support for MusiCares, which ensures that music people have a place to turn in times of financial, medical and personal need.

More Performers Added To VH1 Divas Show

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:30:00 +0000

VH1 Divas – benefiting the Save The Music Foundation – has announced additional performers to join this year’s tribute to soul music.

Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Boyz II Men, Estelle, Marsha Ambrosius and Travie McCoy will join VH1’s “divas” in paying homage to these cities and soul music’s timeless classics at New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom. VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul premieres Monday, December 19 at 9 PM/8c on VH1.

“We are so excited to feature these diverse and multi-talented women and men joining our ‘Divas’ roster this year to showcase the global impact of soul music and how influential and inspirational the music is to today’s chart-topping artists,” said Lee Rolontz, EVP, Original Music Production & Development, VH1 and VH1 Classic. “Celebrating the soul music borne out of some of the world’s greatest cities being performed by today’s top artists with the iconic legends that put soul music on the map prove this year’s ‘Divas’ will be a must-see event.”

Mary J. Blige And Jennifer Hudson Are VH1 Divas For Charity

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:30:00 +0000

VH1’s beloved, popular franchise, “VH1 Divas,” returns and will pay tribute to the cities where soul gave birth to music’s most powerful classics and inspired today’s divas. Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott, Florence + The Machine, Kelly Clarkson and Jessie J will pay homage to these cities and soul music’s timeless classics at New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom.

“VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul” premieres Monday, December 19 at 9 PM/8c on VH1.

“This year’s telecast will showcase the vast impact soul music has had on the 21st century’s music and pop culture landscape as our talented and diverse lineup will attest,” said Lee Rolontz, EVP, Original Music Production & Development, VH1 and VH1 Classic. “This year’s ‘Divas’ offers a modern twist on soul music, all while tipping its hat to the legacy of key cities that created this musical heritage.”

Exploring The Arts With Tony Bennett At Celebrity Charity Event

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:30:00 +0000

When Tony Bennett makes his debut at his sold out performance at the Metropolitan Opera House on Sunday, September 18, he will be joined by Aretha Franklin, Sir Elton John and Alejandro Sanz for special duet appearances.

Franklin, John and Sanz all recorded with Bennett for his Duets CD projects: Elton John appeared on the first CD, DUETS in 2006; and Aretha Franklin and Alejandro Sanz recorded with the singer for the forthcoming follow up CD, DUETS II, set for release on Tuesday, September 20.

The evening at the Metropolitan Opera will also mark the official celebration of Tony’s 85th birthday where he will be honored at a post-concert gala hosted by Alec Baldwin. The gala is a benefit for Exploring The Arts, the non-profit organization started by Bennett and his wife Susan, to support arts education in public schools. Over $2.5M has been raised for the evening thus far.

Meryl Streep To Attend National Women's History Museum Charity Gala

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:00:00 +0000

This coming November, Meryl Streep will be special guest at a gala honoring women from the past and present who have shaped history.

Streep will be attending the National Women’s History Museum’s de Pizan Honors in November in Washington DC. The Museum’s mission is to educate the public about the women who have significantly shaped our world; the National Women’s History Museum will honor history-makers to ensure that their legacy remains alive. Each year, NWHM will pay tribute posthumously to selected women with an award in their name presented to a contemporary counterpart.

The lives and contributions of the recipients of the de Pizan Honors will have a permanent presence, exhibited within the soon-to-be-constructed world- class National Women’s History Museum, at the National Mall in Washington, DC, which will ensure that these women have a permanent place in history.

Bruno Mars And Aretha Franklin Perform At Charity Event To Prevent Teen Pregnancy

Thu, 05 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

The Candie’s Foundation raised awareness for teen pregnancy prevention month with two events on May 3, including an afternoon performance in front of a 40 foot baby bottle in Times Square, and its 10th Anniversary Celebration “The Event to Prevent” gala last night.

Bruno Mars

Katy Perry And Paramore To Headline USO Celebrity Charity Concert

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Two-time Emmy award winning actress and comedian, New York Times bestselling author and Grammy nominated performer Kathy Griffin will host VH1 Divas Salute The Troops from the Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar in San Diego, CA.

Known for her candid wit, the USO tour veteran has been making audiences laugh for years discussing Hollywood gossip and celebrity blunders. Griffin is a multi-faceted performer who is sure to entertain the troops.

“After having had the honor of performing for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, it gives me great pleasure to host an evening for them where they can really blow off some steam. I will not hold back, but I can’t speak for Sugarland. It’s going to be a wild night of great music and a heartfelt thank you,” said Kathy Griffin.

Tyler Perry Receives the NAACP Chairman Award

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:30:00 +0000

Successful filmmaker Tyler Perry will be awarded the Chairman’s Award at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Image Awards.

Chosen by NAACP Board Chairman Julian Bond, the Chairman Award is bestowed in recognition of special achievement and phenomenal public service. Past award recipients include: Bono, U.S. President Barack Obama, Aretha Franklin, The Dave Matthews Band, Aaron McGruder and Janet Jackson.

Tyler Perry’s public service record grows every day. Recently, the actor donated $110,000 and a brand new 15-passenger van to the Atlanta-based homeless shelter Covenant House. In 2009, Perry celebrated the centennial anniversary of the NAACP by donating $1,000,000 to the civil rights organization. Without a doubt, Perry will continue to make huge impressions on and off the screen. Watch for Tyler Perry’s acceptance of the Chairman Award on Fox on February 26.

Lionel Richie Honored By United Negro College Fund

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Legendary singer Lionel Richie was honored with an Award of Excellence by the United Negro College Fund on Saturday night.

Celebrities such as Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, Akon, Katharine McPhee and comedian Cedric the Entertainer attended the 31st annual An Evening of Stars event, held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.

“[Richie] is a national treasure and we’re proud to claim him, not only as a graduate of our storied member school, Tuskegee University, but as an artist of international renown and longtime supporter of UNCF and the work we do to make sure that every child in America gets an education that starts in preschool and doesn’t end until college graduation,” said UNCF’s CEO Michael L. Lomax.

Neil Young: 2010 MusiCares Person Of The Year

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Neil Young has been announced as the 2010 MusiCares Person of the Year.

The 63-year-old musician is being recognized for his outstanding philanthropic work, including co-founding Farm Aid in 1985, and founding Bridge School – and running the annual Bridge School Concerts – with his wife Pegi in 1986. Bridge School was founded to develop and use advanced technologies to aid in the instruction of children with severe speech and physical disabilities.

“Neil has set a standard of artistic integrity and iconoclastic creativity for more than four decades, and his achievements have been matched by his unwavering humanitarianism,” said Neil Portnow, president/CEO of the Recording Academy and the MusiCares Foundation. “He is a shining example of how music people offer their creative gifts to the world, and how they also give back through their commitments to charitable endeavors.”

VH1 Divas To Return For Charity

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:30:00 +0000

After a four-year hiatus, VH1 will bring back the legendary live concert event “VH1 Divas” by featuring some of pop music’s most talented female artists – Adele, Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis and Miley Cyrus. The “VH1 Divas” concert will be televised live on VH1 on Thursday, September 17 at 9:00pm.

Proceeds from the show will go to VH1’s Save The Music Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of education in America’s public schools by restoring music programs in cities across the country, and raising public awareness about the importance of music participation for our nation’s youth. Since VH1 Save The Music was created in 1997, more than $43 million worth of musical instruments have been donated to 1,600 public schools in 100 cities, improving the lives of more than 1.2 million children.

For the first time ever, these leading ladies at the top of their musical game will perform together live at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York. Continuing in true “Divas” tradition, the evening will feature a night of unforgettable performances from various performers, presenters and special guests. Additional performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks.

Nelson Mandela's 91st Celebrated In Style

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:30:00 +0000

A galaxy of stars turned out to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s 91st birthday in New York during the weekend, with proceeds going to one of the South African legend’s charities.

Bruce Springsteen, Alicia Keys, Stevie Wonder and many more appeared at the Radio City Music Hall on Saturday, July 19, with money raised going to 46664, Mandela’s campaign to help raise Global awareness of AIDS/HIV. 46664 aims to highlight the emergency of AIDS/HIV through unique live events and music related initiatives.

Mandela himself was unable to attend the event, but did send a video message in which he said “It is on your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.” President Barack Obama also appeared via video, saying that Mandela’s life “teaches us that the impossible can be done, but only if people have the courage to make change happen.”

VIP Tickets To Mandela Day Concert Available

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:00:00 +0000

46664 and the Nelson Mandela Foundation announced this week that a number of extra VIP tickets are available for the Mandela Day concert at Radio City Music Hall in New York. The concert forms part of the celebrations for Nelson Mandela’s 91st birthday on July 18, 2009 at 8pm.

Mandela Day serves as a global call for people to recognize their individual power to help change the world for the better.

The concert will feature performances by Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Josh Groban, Alicia Keys, Queen Latifah, Wyclef Jean and many more. Special guests include Whoopi Goldberg, Forest Whitaker, Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon and Susan Sarandon.

New York To Host First Mandela Day Concert

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:01:00 +0000

New York takes world center-stage next month when the city hosts the inaugural ‘Mandela Day.’

Centered around a massive music headliner concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Nelson Mandela’s 91st birthday, July 18, the event is designed as a call around the world for people to honor Nelson Mandela’s inspiration and values, and observe the day annually as a celebration, not as a holiday, but as a day to opt in.

Robert F Kennedy Center Launches Charity Auction For Human Rights

Wed, 13 May 2009 11:30:00 +0000

An exciting new charity auction has been launched featuring an unbelievable number of celebrity experiences.

Ever want to meet Oprah Winfrey? Hop in the pool for a swim lesson from Michael Phelps. Get fashion advice from Project Runway’s Tim Gunn over lunch at Bryant Park Grill? Learn the arts of comedy and paper sales from Steve Carell on the set of the Office. How about talking politics with the most powerful woman in Washington, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, during a tour of the U.S. Capitol or crossing the aisle to discuss backyard BBQ recipes and foreign policy with Senator John McCain? See Iron Chef Bobby Flay in action at Kitchen Stadium? Make your Hollywood debut in Ridley Scott’s new “Robinhood” film, starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett. Seek enlightenment and meet Richard Gere with VIP tickets during His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 2010 trip to NYC. Or ride in a pace car at the Indy 500 and party with track chairman, Mari George.

Supporters of the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights have put together these experiences and much more for their Annual Online Auction. With the help of CharityBuzz, the online auction will raise funds supporting the RFK Center’s human rights work. The auction is open now and runs until December May 28th with new lots continuing to be added each and every day.

Grammy Charity Auction Set To Rock

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 15:30:00 +0000

With the Grammy Awards only days away, now is the time to bid on exclusive celebrity items in the annual Grammy Awards Charity Auction and help a good cause.

Going under the hammer this year are VIP experiences with Katy Perry and Kathy Griffin, guitars signed by AC/DC, Taylor Swift, John Mayer, Fall Out Boy and the Jonas Brothers, books signed by Mariah Carey, Slash, and Céline Dion, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the set of a Rihanna music video or photo shoot.

Also on offer are DVDs signed by Flight of the Conchords, drums signed by the Foo Fighters, and memorabilia signed by Sheryl Crow, Katherine McPhee, Jesse McCartney, Tom Jones, Christina Aguilera, Robert Plant, and Sarah McLachlan.

Bid On Celebrity Autographs At Heart Ball

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 11:30:00 +0000

Autograph Store, a leading online auction dealer of celebrity signed collectibles and memorabilia, is pleased to sponsor the American Heart Association’s charity auction at the Heart Ball on February 7, 2009.

The Heart Ball will be held at the Oasis Convention Center, Springfield, MO at 6:00 p.m. The theme for this year’s Heart Ball is “Heart & Soul Tour 2009.” In addition to bidding on the unique signed celebrity collectibles in the charity auction, attendees can dance to the music of The Allie Catz, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind “World Tour Buffet” provided by Fire & Ice, Touch, Restaurante’ Gilardi, Kai and Bijan’s with dessert provided by Hiland Dairy.

Jonas Brothers To Play Charity Concert For Auto Show

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 12:30:00 +0000

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has announced the Grammy nominated Jonas Brothers will play a special concert at Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena on January 18, 2009 to help raise funds for the annual Charity Preview.

The 2009 Charity Preview will take place at Cobo Center on January 16 from 6-9 PM. Since its inception in 1976, Charity Preview has raised over $77 million for children’s charities in metro Detroit — over $32 million of which was raised in the last five years alone. Medical treatment, clothing and support services for local kids in need all are made possible through the purchase of Charity Preview tickets. The annual event has delivered more than $6 million to children’s charities in Southeastern Michigan.

Metro Detroit area beneficiaries of the Charity Preview include: Barat Child and Family Services; Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children’s Center, Judson Center, Children’s Services of Northeastern Guidance Center Assistance League, The Detroit Institute for Children, Think Detroit PAL, Easter Seals – Michigan, March Of Dimes, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund – a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.

Rihanna To Play Inauguration Show For The Hungry

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:00:00 +0000

Pop star Rihanna is set to perform at Barack Obama’s inauguration to benefit hunger relief.

The 20-year-old has been confirmed to sing at the Recording Industry Association of America’s Presidential Inauguration Charity Ball in aid of Feeding America.

“We could not be happier that Rihanna will be performing at the Inauguration charity ball to benefit Feeding America,” Vicki Escarra, president and CEO of Feeding America (formerly America’s Second Harvest), told people.com. “Rihanna’s involvement will help raise awareness about the prevalence of hunger in America and help bring more aid to the 36 million Americans who do not always know where they will find their next meal.”

Aretha Franklin Salutes The Troops

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:30:00 +0000

Yesterday, December 14, a first-of-its-kind holiday tribute to unite the American Nation, salute the men and women who serve the United States of America, and honor their families was held in Times Square, New York

Two high profile events with celebrity guests, politicians, Broadway stars and City of Fame perfomers distinguished the special day.

The main perfomer was singer Aretha Franklin, who led the significant opportunity to honor US armed forces, promote the spirit of giving and award those whose achievements reflect a lifetime of dedication.

Joss Stone, Anita Baker To Shine for UNCF's An Evening of Stars

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:30:00 +0000

Grammy-winning ladies of soul Anita Baker and Joss Stone are set to join Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson and American Idol winner Fantasia at the UNCF’s tribute to Patti LaBelle.

The UNCF’s 30th Anniversary An Evening of Stars® Tribute to Patti LaBelle Presented by Target promises to be a night to remember as the charity salutes Patti LaBelle before a live audience on Saturday, September 13, 2008 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California.

Jonas Brothers Raise Scholarship Money

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:30:00 +0000

The Jonas Brothers played a special gig attended by a host of stars on Saturday.

The boy band – who recently made headlines for their work raising awareness of diabetes – played at Ross School in East Hampton on August 9. The concert – attended by 650 people who paid $1,500 each – was part of a star-filled summer series to raise funds for the school, where tuition is up to $24,800 per year. Money raised will go toward raising the $2 million needed to build up the school’s annual scholarship fund and give any interested children the opportunity to attend.

“Our goal of events like this is to make the Ross School available to any student that is interested,” said Michele Claeys, head of the school. Currently, 40% of students receive scholarships to attend the school.

Shakira Sheds Threads For Charity

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 11:11:47 +0000

Although the Northern Hemisphere is still gripped with winter chills, it has not stopped some celebrities from shedding their clothes… for a good cause, of course.

Latin American pop princess Shakira leads the pack by donating more than 40 items of clothing from her 2007 Oral Fixation Tour to a massive internet auction.

There is an impressive list of garments from the hip-shaking performer’s wardrobe, including a lavender skirt with turqoise and coral beading and a blue tank top emblazoned with the words “For Those Who Love To Rock”. And the demand has been overwhelming, with one dress attracting bids of $10,000, and a custom-made bra reaching $1,126.