As you may have seen on promo posters around your local movie theatre, Walt Disney Pictures is finally getting ready to release a sequel to their 1982 breakthrough film Tron. The new film, Tron Legacy continues the tradition of breakthrough computer animation in Disney 3-D and Imax, unlike anything ever seen on the  big screen before. Disney bringing Tron back is perfect to add to the collection of countless 3-D animated films from all the major film studios. Adding to Tron Legacy’s futuristic vibe will be the soundtrack composed entirely by French, House music duo Daft Punk. Daft Punk came to fame by producing some of the music that is often considered to be essential in the House Music era of the late 1990s and early 2000s.. Two of those biggest hits include, “Around The World” from 1997 and possibly their biggest hit, “One More Time”  from 2000!  Multiple sources indicate that Daft Punk has recorded over 24 trackss for Tron Legacy ’s score. In addition to Daft Punk’s contribution, Journey’s music will also be featured in the film, just as it had been in the original 1982 film.

Tron Legacy

(Teaser Trailer Featuring Daft Punk’s Theme Music)

Walt Disney Pictures

Tron Legacy

Official Trailer

Walt Disney Pictures

Tron

(1982 Trailer)

Walt Disney Pictures

Daft Punk

“Around The World”

From Homework

1997 Virgin Records

Daft Punk
“One More Time”

From Discovery

2000 Virgin Records

Kelly Rowland

By Melanie Yvette Martin (New Clizbeats.com Writer)

A tad bit curvier, a lot more confident and absolutely in control, Kelly Rowland announces her title as “Commander in Chief” with her third solo album and hit single “Commander”.

But don’t call this a comeback. Don’t even call it a new and improved Kelly. There was nothing wrong with her from the beginning. Let us remember, she is only one-third of what many consider to only be the most successful female groups of all time.

Ms. Kelly has seemingly just come into her own. Her new sound of heavy dance, upbeat techno, vegas-esque style, can be considered out of the ordinary if you must reminisce upon her previous solo projects. But the truth is, it actually works for her. Her voice fits the tone and she seems to actually be enjoying the music she is making.

“From here on out, I’ll be your commander” is what she salutes in a tight, patent leather body suit, leaving not much to the imagination when she, well, turns around. Where she got that booty, nobody knows. Where she got the audacity to take back control of her career after a much needed divorce between her and former manager, Matthew Knowles-we’ll just have to find out.

The journey can be taken with her when her third solo album debuts this later this year. And the trip is actually worthwhile as she proclaims her stance as a “Grown Woman”, writen by Ne-Yo and acknowledges the truth about blind love in the “Rose Colored Glasses”, produced by Dr. Luke, most famous for his work on Katy Perry’s “I kissed a girl” and Miley Cyrus “Party in the USA”.

My only concern is will everyone “get it”? As we allowed Michelle to tap into her Gospel voice, Beyonce to smoothly end her relationship with blasé R&B, and even decided with Solange that she was, in fact, amazing, we never really got the chance to give Kelly a shot. While her solo debut “Simply Deep” sold over 2 million copies worldwide, something happened along the yellow bricked road of her career, as her follow up album, Ms. Kelly, kept getting shelved and eventually needed a re-release in 2008, after its 2007 debut.

However, despite a roller coaster ridden in the shadow of Beyonces’ solo success and an obvious struggle to make her mark in the industry alone, Rowland seems to have landed firmly in her skin and in her voice. Her sound does more than take you into a new direction, but into a new world.

Her latest ensemble, set to release later this year, and her first single “Commander”, forces her to step out of her comfort zone, add attitude and demand her best, and only best, to be shown. She gave us a sneak peak of her new sound with her number one hit, “When Love takes over”, a proven successful collaboration with famous French DJ, David Guetta.

Does she have a bit of work to do? Of course, but who doesn’t? I mean at least she can really sing. Half the artist nowadays couldn’t hold a note if their life depended on it. Her dancing is still a bit outdated and she sort of seems to be waddling in and out of finding her “look”. Although as she has seemed to change her image what feels like every five minutes, in reality, her new style of music is forward, futuristic and full of life…

Enough said. Buy the album. Or at least indulge in the club, and let the martini loosen you up a bit as you sweat your perm out while screaming at the top of your lungs “when love takes over, yeah!”. As a broke recent college grad, I prefer the latter, but you won’t go wrong dropping a few bucks for the full Vegas-esque experience.

I get it, Kelly. Always have and always will.

Kelly Rowland Featuring David Guetta

“Commander”

From Kelly Rowland

Universal Motown Records Group

Kelly Rowland

“Rose Colored Glasses”

From Kelly Rowland

Universal Motown Records Group

Kelly Rowland

“Grown Woman”

From Kelly Rowland

Universal Motown Records Group

Other Related Media

David Guetta Featuring Kelly Rowland

“When Love Takes Over”

From One Love

Gum Productions Inc./Capitol Records/EMI

Kelly Rowland

“Stole”

From Simply Deep

Music World Music/Columbia Records

Kelly Rowland Featuring Eve

“Like This”

From Ms. Kelly

Music World Music/Columbia Records

Kelly Rowland Featuring Travie McCoy of Gym Class Heroes

“Daylight”

From Ms. Kelly

Music World Music/Columbia Records

Bruno Mars "Just The Way You Are" Elektra Records

Elektra recording artist Bruno Mars will unveil the first single “Just The Way You Are” via his newly launched BRUNOMARS.COM site today, July 19^th.  The single will arrive at all DSPs on July 20^th, with his forthcoming hugely anticipated Elektra debut album slated to arrive later this year.

In the meantime, Mars has lined up his biggest US tour schedule to date.  The Hawaiian-born artist will support Maroon 5 on the fall leg of their 2010 “Hands All Over” Tour, joining a bill that also includes One Republic.  The dates begin October 6^th at Santa Barbara, California’s Santa Barbara Bowl and then continue through an October 19^th show at Tulsa, Oklahoma’s BOK Center (see attached itinerary).  Tickets for all shows are now on sale to the general public –please check local listings for ticket availability.

Also just announced, Bruno Mars will perform at the Bowery Ballroom on August 25^th, which will mark his first solo-performance debut in NYC.

What’s more, Bruno will join K’naan for a very special one-night-only concert, set for Wednesday, August 4^th at West Hollywood, California’s House of Blues.  The two artists recently collaborated on the international #1 smash, “Wavin’ Flag,” which served as the anthem of the FIFA World Cup tournament in South Africa.  The track was written and produced by Mars and Philip Lawrence, two members of the hit making production trio The Smeezingtons.

Though best known for his soulful vocal turns and co-production skills on Rebel Rock Entertainment/Grand Hustle/Atlantic recording artist B.o.B’s #1 hit single, “Nothin’ On You (Feat. Bruno Mars)” and Decaydance/Fueled By Ramen recording artist Travie McCoy’s top 5 smash, “Billionaire (Feat. Bruno Mars),” Mars recently released his own debut EP, “IT’S BETTER IF YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND,” which peaked at #1 on the iTunes Pop chart.  Among the deeply personal, purposefully simple collection’s highlights is “The Other Side,” which sees Mars joined by both B.o.B and the one and only Cee Lo Green (whose hugely anticipated new Elektra solo album, “LADY KILLER,” is slated for release later this year).  All four tracks on “IT’S BETTER IF YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND” were produced and written by Mars in collaboration with his Smeezingtons partners, Philip Lawrence and Ari Levine.

“It’s hard to put myself in a box,” says Mars of the EP’s contents.  “I just write songs that I strongly believe in and that are coming from inside.  There’s no tricks.  It’s honesty with big melodies.  And I’m singing the s*** out of them.”

A buoyant live performer, Mars will join Travie McCoy for multiple upcoming TV performances of their collaborative hit, “Billionaire.”  The duo will team up for VH1’s Do Something Awards, slated for July 19^th, as well as a visit to TBS’ Lopez Tonight with an as-yet-unscheduled air date (check local listings).  Mars will take the stage again with Travie McCoy to perform “Billionaire” at the 2010 Teen Choice Awards hosted by Katy Perry, airing on Fox August 9^th. Bruno’s hit singles with B.o.B and Travie McCoy are both nominated as well. “Nothin’ on You” is up for the Choice Music: Single award and “Billionaire” is nominated for the Choice Summer: Single award.

Bruno has already received a wide array of national media attention for his role as featured vocalist on both “Nothin’ On You” and “Billionaire.”  He appeared alongside B.o.B on a number of recent TV shows, including BET’s 106 & Park, the nationally syndicated The Ellen DeGeneres Show, ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and TBS’ Lopez Tonight, while additionally joining Travie McCoy for performances on ABC’s The View and NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.

Mars is also confirmed to be a featured new artist on VH1’s You Oughta Know beginning at the end of August. Emerging artists among the likes of John Legend, Regina Spektor and Kings of Leon have been featured on the prestigious VH1 program in the past.

The scion of a Honolulu-based musical family, Bruno Mars grew up surrounded by a wide array of diverse sounds, spanning reggae, R&B, folk, and 1950s-era rock ‘n’ roll.  Upon graduation from high school Mars headed to Los Angeles where he teamed up with Philip Lawrence and Ari Levine as The Smeezingtons.  The three quickly became one of the most in-demand production/songwriting teams in modern music, with a streak of major hits including Flo Rida’s “Right Round,” Brandy’s “Long Distance,” and K’naan’s aforementioned “Wavin’ Flag.”

It wasn’t long before Mars also lent his signature vocals to a pair of Smeezingtons-penned and produced hits:  B.o.B’s RIAA platinum-certified #1 sensation, “Nothin’ On You,” and “Billionaire,” the debut solo single from Gym Class Heroes frontman Travie McCoy.  The latter track recently exploded into the top 5 on Billboard’s “Hot 100,” where it remains bulleted for its airplay and sales gains this week.

“Billionaire” is also an unqualified multi-format radio blockbuster, hitting the top 5 at CHR/Pop and the top 10 at Rhythmic outlets nationwide. The song was recently RIAA platinum-certified at 1.6 million in sales. What’s more, the “Billionaire” music video is scoring at both VH1, MTV, BET, Teen Nick, and Fuse (where it was recently the network’s #1 most played clip).

For more information, please visit www.brunomars.com or www.elektra.com.

Bruno Mars

“Just The Way You Are”

Elektra Records

Despicable Me Soundtrack Star Trak/Interscope Records

Movie goers know that this weekend marks the release of the first film from Illumination Entertainment and Universal Pictures, Despicable Me. While the film has an all star cast of Steve Carrell , Jason Segel, Julie Andrews and Miranda Cosgrove, in some ways the soundtrack and music to the film is just as much of an interesting story. The music to the film was composed by Heitor Pereira and Pharrell Williams of The Neptunes and N.E.R.D.. Heitor Pereira is known for his work playing with various famous musicians like Simply Red, Elton John, K.D. Lang, Rod Stewart, and Jack Johnson. Pharrell Williams is best known for his work co-writing and producing hit records as a member of The Neptunes with his production partner, Chad Hugo. The Neptunes are known for being the master minds behind songs like “Hot In Herre” by Nelly, “I’m A Slave 4 U” By Britney Spears and countless hits by the likes of Jay-Z, Ludacris and Mystikal in the early 2000s. The Neptunes are also credited in helping reshape Justin Timberlake’s sound and image as an R&B artist, as well as relaunching the career of Robin Thicke when he signed to their label Star Trak Entertainment.

This marks the second motion picture sound track t0 be released by Star Trak/Interscope Records following 2009’s Fast and Furious soundtrack, that was also distributed by Universal Pictures, part of Star Trak’s parent company,  NBC Universal.  Pharrell has stated in interviews, that his unique level of participation with Despicable me was inspired from watching the 2006 animated feature Curious George.  Thanks to music loving movie execs like Kathy Nelson then of Universal Pictures, the Classic children’s character was backed musically by the distinct laid back and playful stylings of singer songwritter, Jack Johnson when brought to the big screen. Watching the film, Pharrell relished at the creative freedom that Jack had and reached out eagerly to do something similar with what tunred out to be Despicable me.  ”I was so envious of Jack Johnson for getting that project.” Pharrell told  blacktree.com.

“I thought it was so cool.  I was like, man, he did such an amazing Job.  I was like man, if I were to be given the opportunity man, I would really, you know, I would really, bust my butt to just make the best stuff.”

That enthusiasm earned him a meeting with Illumination studios, where he was granted the executive rights on the film’s soundtrack, and from that point on, “bust his butt,” is exactly what he did.  Excluding already established hits featured in the film, “Boogie Fever” by The Sylvers, and “You Should be Dancing” by the Bee Gees that consequently made the track list, Pharrell had a hand in writing and producing every single original song. He teamed up with the likes of Hans Zimer of famous movie scores like The Lion King, and nail the Curious George finger print from partner Heitor Pereira, who was one of its principle producers.

Bringing something uniquely his own, Pharell appeared a performer on 5 of the album’s 11 total tracks.  He also consciously spotlighted Star Trak Entertainment recording star and Clizbeats Featured Artist, Robin Thicke, who is featured in the film with his song “My Life”, an upbeat R&B tune written by Thicke and Williams. Check out some soundtrack samples, as well as Pharrell and Robin at work in the Studio creating “My Life.” in the viral video below.

Pharrell Williams

“Despicable Me Theme”

Star Trak/Interscope Records

Pharrell William’s & Robin Thicke

Producing “My Life” For Despicable Me

Star Trak/Interscope Records

Maroon 5 "Hands All Over" Octone/A&M/Interscope Records

Pop/Rock band Maroon 5 has returned to the music scene after a taking a break through much of 2008 and some of 2009. Now the guys are finally ready to release their highly anticipated third studio album, Hands All Over. The album was recorded through most of last year when the band relocated to Switzerland to record with legendary Rock producer, Robert “Mutt” Lange. Lange is a British producer that can easily be considered one of the most successful Rock producer in Pop  music. Lange has been known for bringing out the best in countless numbers of musical acts including, AC/DC, Def Lepard, Foreigner, Bryan Adams, The Cars, Nickelback,  and even Shania Twain.

While Lange had his “hands all over” as producer of the album, the album was still primarily written by the band members. Even though front-man, Adam Levine has been known to collaborate with everyone from Alicia Keys, Kanye West, to even the Ying Yang Twins, the only collaboration from guest vocalists on the album will be from Lady Antebellum on the song “Out Of Goodbyes.”

Hands All Over is not due in stores until September 21st, but fans do not have to wait that long to hear from the guys! The first single from Hands All Over, “Misery” was released digitally by Octoone/A&M/Interscope Records on June 22nd. The song, co-written by Maroon 5’s Adam Levine and Jesse Carmichael and Phantom Planet bass player Sam Farrar has already reached #44 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and #19 on Billboard’s Hot Adult Top 40 Chart. Plus the guys plan on touring to support the album starting on July 30, 2010 in Saratoga Springs, NY. Joining them on the tour as supporting opening acts will be V.V Brown and Owl City.

Check out the video for “Misery” which premired on MTV and VH1 channels, as well as on Vevo last week. Also below check out the official track listing for, Hands All Over.

Maroon 5

“Misery”

From Hands All Over

Octone/A&M/Interscope Records

Maroon 5 Hands All Over track list Octone/A&M/Interscope Records

1. “How”

2. “Never Gonna Leave”

3. “Wasted Years”

4. “Last Chance”

5. “Don’t Know Much About That”

6. “Out Of Goodbyes” Featuring Lady Antebellum

7. “I Can’t Lie”

8. “Give A Little More”

9. “Misery”

10. “Stutter”

11. “Hands All Over”

Craig Clizbe, Charice, & Matt Clizbe Pose For A Pic After Sitting Down For An Exclusive Interview Coming soon!

Hey everyone!

Just wanted to reach out and give you a preview scoop of what’s to come from us over here at Clizbeats!  As you Can see, Craig, Matt, and their production Crew of Michael Leary, Andre Beckett, and Tim McCombe were joined by Oprah endorsed singing sensation, Charice!  The guys had the pleasure of talking with Charice and Reprise Records representative Tommy Page  about her life of stardom after being discovered on youtube.  All of  us had a great time and cant wait to share what we all did together.  In The mean time a fun Charice quiz for ya.  See how well you know the girl Oprah calls, “The most talented girl in world.”

Take Our Charice Quiz!

Kenny G

Smooth Jazz great, Kenny G is returning to his soulful roots on his 13th album, Heart & Soul due in stores on June 29th from Concord Records. The album is primarily instrumentals with an Urban/Adult Contemporary vibe. produced by Walter Afanasieff (Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey) and Kenny himself. It will only feature two songs with vocals, “No Place Like Home” written by and featuring Babyface, and the album’s first single, “Fall Again” Featuring Clizbeats featured artist, RobinThicke! “Fall Again” was actually written by a then 22 year old Robin Thicke with producer, Walter Afanasieff. The song was originally written for Michael Jackson, intended for his last album, Invincible. Even though the song was never included on the album, a demo of the song that Michael recorded was included on Michael Jackson: The Ultimate Collection from 2004.

Although it is nothing more than a favorite of die hard MJ and Thicke fans, the song has gone on to become  known as a milestone in Robin Thicke’s career as a songwriter and producer. It has been referenced as an important part of his musical resume  in many interviews that Robin did as an up and coming performer.   . He has said many times that “Fall Again” was the only song that he had written for someone else that he would have considerd recording himself. Now that thought has become a reality for now 33 year old Robin Thicke.  Check out Robin singing vocals on the new Kenny G version of “Fall Again”.

Kenny G Featuring Robin Thicke

“Fall Again”

From Heart & Soul

Concord Records

Download Preview Here If Needed

Asher Roth

Clizbeats featured artist, Asher Roth is finally getting ready to release his second album for School Boy/SRC/Universal Motown Records Group! The first single to the set recently premiered on New York’s trend setting radio station, WQHT FM “Hot 97″ FM. The song is “G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready Its A New Day)”, It is an obvious departure from Asher’s debut single, “I Love College.” While still fun to listen to, Asher shows how lyrically socially concious he can be . “G.R.I.N.D.” is an uplifting song with nice flow. It shows Asher as the well rounded and smart emcee that his true fans know him to be. If this song is an indication of anything his second album is going to be great! Keep up the good work Asher!

Listen To Asher Roth’s New Single Here

Asher Roth

“G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready Its A New Day)”

School Boy/SRC/Universal Motown Records Group

Download Asher Roth’s Song Preview Here If Needed

B.O.B. Presents: The Adventures Of Bobby Ray from Rebel Rock/Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records

Atlanta Hip Hop sensation B.O.B. aka Bobby Ray checked in with Craig & Matt of Clizbeats.com! Bob told them about how his love for all types of different music, especially Rock has made him one of the most creative new voices in Hip Hop today. Hear all about the adventure of Bobby Ray!

Check Out B.O.B.’s Interview

Download B.O.B. Interview Here If Needed

Audio Feature Credits

Host: Matt Clizbe

Interviewers: Craig Clizbe & Matt Clizbe

Written, Produced, Mixed & Engineered By: Craig Clizbe

Special Thanks: B.O.B. aka Bobby Ray, Ashley Kalmanowitz, Sydney Margetson, Rebel Rock/Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records

Friend to Clizbeats.com, Simon Illa has released the promo video for his second annual Mind For Music Charity Event.  You may remember Mind For Music from Clizbeats’  coverage and interview around the event’s debut last year. Founded by Simon’s Unbreakable Music Foundation, Mind For Music supports the worthy cause of providing adaptive accommodations in school music classes for students with disabilities too severe to participate without assistance.  This particular cause has always been important to Simon, because of  his own disability. He spent much his youth working twice as hard as his musician peers for his own music education.  Thanks to the fear and/or lack of resources of those that he was suppose to be learning from, it was often up to him to teach himself music.   While his resulting independent spirit helped prepare him to work as an in demand producer for Zac Recording Studio and Purple Ribbon Entertainment in Atlanta, he often feels that he was forced to do without when it came to the  crucial early stages of his music education in ways that still effect him today.

Like last year, the event will feature performances by artists produced by Simon Illa.  Mind For Music already has the support of such industry celebrities like, D. Woods, Brian Michael Cox, and Rob Thomas!  Corporate support for Mind For Music will once again be provided by Atlanta’s Hard Rock Cafe’, and take place on June 4th.  For more information about Mind For Music and Simon Illa, Click here for our exclusive interview.  To Purchase tickets to this worthy cause, please go to http://www.mindformusic.org/, or Ticketalternative.com.

Mind For Music Promo Video Below