Tag: MTV

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News

One Day Left to Vote for You Sing I Write as MTV Twitter Jockey

Last week, I told you about MTV’s search for a Twitter Jockey. They’re currently looking for a social media enthusiast who will act as a liaison between the public and staff at MTV.

If you feel You Sing I Write should be a contender vote here. There are two spots still open, so if you enjoy reading music news and interviews I provide and think MTV can benefit from my help, feel free to nominate me! The voting ends tomorrow, June 27. Thanks for your support!

Here are the rules:

1) MTV selects 18 candidates.
2) You, the audience, selects two (2) candidates through open nominations.
3) The 20 candidates compete in a series of Twitter-based challenges.
4) Five candidates move on to the final challenge round in New York City.
5) You, the audience, votes for the final MTV TJ during a live televised show on August 8, 2010.

To find out more about the contest, and how to enter visit http://tj.mtv.com/about.

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News

Vote For YSIW to Become MTV’s First Twitter Jockey

Earlier this week, friend and colleague Tammy Tibbetts informed me of MTV’s current search for a Twitter Jockey.They’re looking for a social media enthusiast who will act as a liaison between the public and staff at MTV. The voting started this past Monday and ends June 27th.

Do you think You Sing I Write should be a contender? If so, you can vote here.There are two spots still open, so if you enjoy reading music news and interviews I provide and think MTV can benefit from my help, feel free to vote!

Here are the rules:

1) MTV selects 18 candidates.
2) You, the audience, selects two (2) candidates through open nominations.
3) The 20 candidates compete in a series of Twitter-based challenges.
4) Five candidates move on to the final challenge round in New York City.
5) You, the audience, votes for the final MTV TJ during a live televised show on August 8, 2010.

To find out more about the contest, and how to enter visit http://tj.mtv.com/about.

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Benefit Features News

Musicians & Media Get Involved In Haiti

By now you’ve heard about the devastation in Haiti and the aftermath of the earthquake. Many musicians and media outlets have been doing their part to raise money and I thought I’d fill you in on two music related ventures — Paste Magazine‘s “Songs For Haiti” and MTV’s “Hope For Haiti.”

Paste Magazine is offering those who donate money to the Haiti earthquake relief unreleased songs from diverse artists including Ludacris, Of Montreal, Andrew Bird, Hanson, Low Anthem, Umphrey’s McGee, Switchfoot, Derek Webb and over 200 others. If you’ve already donated you still can still participate (just say where you made your donation) as all will have access to “Songs For Haiti” MP3s. All the money raised through Paste will be spread equally among three charities active in Haiti relief: Doctors Without Borders, The Red Cross and Wyclef Jean’s Yele Haiti Earthquake Fund.

“We obviously don’t think people would need incentive to donate in this effort, but perhaps the campaign will inspire more music fans to get involved, or to encourage people who have already donated, to donate again,” said Josh Jackson, Paste Magazine Editor-In-Chief. “Music has always been a force that brings people together, and to have so many fantastic artists drop everything to contribute to this effort was very touching,” Jackson added.

I couldn’t agree more. For more information on “Songs For Haiti” and to donate click here.

Friday night, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT and 7:00 p.m. CT, MTV along with many other networks will host a night of performances to raise money for Haiti relief. The lineup includes Madonna, Taylor Swift, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Stevie Wonder, Wyclef Jean, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Shakira, Keith Urban, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock, Sting, Coldplay, Bono, the Edge, Jay-Z and Rihanna.

Additional appearances include former President Bill Clinton, Tom Hanks, Brad Pitt, Robert Pattinson, Will Smith, Julia Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio, Meryl Streep, Muhammad Ali, Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Clint Eastwood, Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Jon Stewart, Matt Damon, Morgan Freeman, Nicole Kidman, Samuel L. Jackson and more.

“Hope for Haiti Now” will begin accepting donations at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT on Friday, January 22 via the following methods:

Online: www.hopeforhaitinow.org
Phone: 877-99-HAITI
Text: Text “GIVE” to 50555
Mail: Hope For Haiti Now Fund, Entertainment Industry Foundation, 1201 West 5th Street, Suite T-700, Los Angeles, CA 90017

All musical performances will be available for purchase for 99 cents per song through iTunes beginning Saturday, January 23. iTunes customers will be able to exclusively pre-order both the “Hope for Haiti Now” full performance album ($7.99) and the full two-hour video telecast ($1.99). Pre-orders will be delivered in the days following the telethon. All proceeds will benefit relief funds managed by Hope for Haiti Now charities.

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News

Poll of the Week: Team Taylor or Team Kanye?

I couldn’t go anywhere this week without hearing a Taylor Swift song. Kanye West on the other hand, not so much. MTV’s Video Music Awards are now a week old, but the press is still abuzz. I was outside Radio City Music Hall when the debacle occurred — five minutes before Swift took to the streets for her live performance (see videos below).

Let’s take a look back at the night’s events and let me know your opinion in this week’s poll. Do you think Kanye’s apology was sincere? What would you have done if you were Taylor? Are you tired of hearing all of this being reported? Feel free to leave your response in the comments.

Taylor’s (and apparently, Kanye’s) acceptance speech:

MTV Shows

Taylor Swift performing “You Belong With Me” live:

New Music – More Music Videos

What you didn’t see: After her performance, fans on the street were pounding on the cabs and chanting her name, in a way letting Taylor know they had her back.

Beyonce proves, once again, why she is one of the classiest female artists in the industry today:

MTV Shows

Kanye’s Apology on “The Jay Leno Show”: (29 minutes in)

http://widgets.nbc.com/o/49d06ba1523528c3/4ab6e4005cbadcfc/49d06ba1523528c3/50ad34f2/-cpid/8c287ca4a3e1cdbf

After watching it all take place, what are your thoughts? Be sure to vote in this week’s poll!

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News

MTV’s Video Music Awards Live in NYC Sunday Night!


The VMA’s are back and will be taking place live at Radio City Music Hall in New York City tomorrow night. I’m psyched because I will be attending and taking part in the red carpet extravaganza and Taylor Swift’s performance (look closely, maybe you’ll spot me!).

Performances this year include Janet Jackson with a musical tribute to her brother, Jay-Z, Green Day, Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Muse, Wale, and more. I’m not sure how much access I’ll have during the show, but be sure to follow me on Twitter as I update you to all my artist sightings and interviews. Tune in Sunday night at 9P/8C.

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Features First Person

“I Want To Work For Diddy 2? Audition Recap

Those of you who know me are already aware that I’m not the most outspoken person in the world. In fact, I’m more the sit back and observe type of girl. In normal circumstances this isn’t the end-all, but when trying out for a reality show it definitely won’t get you hired. At least that’s what I learned today, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

I have to be honest, I was debating all week about auditioning. After watching countless videos about Diddy and doing some research, he doesn’t seem like the easiest man to work for. One of the most highly regarded figures in the Hip-Hop world, Diddy is as business savvy as they come. Musician, producer, actor, designer, — the list goes on and on. Does he ever sleep? Nope, that’s what I learned. His personal mantra is “You can sleep when you’re dead.” You can get a pretty good idea of how intense working for Diddy really is from the video below.

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

So, after watching this video you can understand why I was a bit hesitant to go to the audition today. But, I stuck it out and since many of you voted for me to apply and have been giving me tons of encouragement, I decided to go. If anything, it makes for a good blog post, right?

I arrived at the audition location shortly after 9:30 a.m. and there was already a line. Thankfully, I befriended two girls in front of me, one who also turns out to be a writer, so the nearly two hours didn’t seem so bad. When they finally ushered us into the venue there was yet more waiting and my nerves started to get the best of me. You know, your heart pounding through your throat and feeling like it’s going to explode out of your chest. Ten of us were showed into the room and asked to sit down so we could see each other and then the introductions began.

“Tell me your name, where you’re from and why you’d be an asset to Diddy,” Douglas told the crowd. “And pay attention to familiarize yourself with each contestant,” he continued.

The first seven people before me introduced themselves before someone came over to Douglas (the moderator) and he stepped away for a minute — of course right before my turn. My heart was beating and I could feel myself break out into a cold sweat. “Why am I an asset to Diddy?” I kept thinking. Dedicated, hard working, blah blah blah that’s what everyone says.

Douglas came back and it was my turn and I’m pretty sure my voice was shaking. “Hi, I’m Annie Reuter — also a Jersey girl (most of the people in my group were from Jersey).” To be honest I really don’t know what I said after that. I’m sure it was something along the lines of “I’m a freelance writer” but I just blanked out and just said whatever came to mind.

The two people after me introduced themselves to the group and then Douglas said, “Alright. So now you all know each other. I want you to tell me who in this group doesn’t deserve to be here.” I had an idea this was coming, but never really imagined what would happen next. Right away this girl called another girl out, making some remark about the heels she was wearing and how she seems to think she’s better than everybody else. A verbal fight erupted and I’m sitting there flabergasted. I mean, I know girls can be mean but this was pretty intense. Then a few guys got into it and start insulting everyone. While I know I should speak up to show that I could handle a situation like this, I just had nothing to say. How am I supposed to tell how well of an assistant a person could be if I just met them? It was all a bit bizzare to me.

Obviously, the people who made it to round two were the outspoken insult-throwing leaders of the pack and that’s just fine with me. While I’m sure I have to be a bit tougher to thrive in this industry, name calling and harping on a person’s choice of clothing attire are just not something I care to be involved in. At the end of the day, you have to live with yourself and the decisions you make.

A wise man once wrote (aka Mark Twain) “Always do right. This will gratify some people, and astonish the rest.” After today, I couldn’t agree more.

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First Person

Poll of the Week: Should I Apply To Work For Diddy?

According to last week’s poll question, What Do You Enjoy Most on You Sing, I Write? many like my artist interviews the most, so I’ll be sure to set up new interviews for you soon! I received some really great comments and suggestions and from the sound of it, you all seem to like what I’ve been doing so I won’t change the structure of my blog too much. Like anything, it’s a work in progress and there are always ways to make it better. If you have any tips/suggestions, never hesitate to contact me!

Now onto this week’s poll question, a bit random perhaps, but music related as always!

Should I Apply to Work for Diddy?

I’m constantly perusing the job boards in search of more writing opportunities and freelance work and this week I stumbled upon an ad to sign up for VH1’s show, “I Want To Work For Diddy 2.” Basically, it’s a search to be P. Diddy’s personal assistant. While I’ve continuously told my friends that I could never picture myself on a reality show, this seems different and who knows, it could lead to a full time career in the music business.

I know what you’re thinking, “Is she crazy?” Sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone. My aunt gave me a mug as part of my graduation gift a few years ago that had this quote written on it: “Live Boldly. Take Risks. Make somebody say, ‘What the hell was that all about?'” and I read that quote everyday when getting ready. I feel like my life has been a crazy roller coaster ride this past year (in a good way) and maybe it’s time to branch out once again and try something new.

What do you think? Read the application here and let me know in this week’s poll. Comments are always welcome as I’d love to hear what you REALLY think about me applying. Auditions are next Monday so I really have to make up my mind soon and would appreciate your help!

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Features News

Introducing MTV’s “$5 Cover”

I just found out about MTV’s new show, “$5 Cover” and I have to say, it’s about time there’s a legit reality show about musicians. Premiering tomorrow, Friday, May 1 at midnight, the series, directed by “Hustle and Flow” writer-director Craig Brewer, captures the lives of Memphis musicians. Part reality show, part indie cinema, “$5 Cover” will be aired on MTV and on the Web site www.fivedollarcover.com.

The show follows five Memphis musicians and their respective bands including Craig Brewer, Al Kapone, Amy Lavere, Ben Nichols and Clare Grant. Watch as lives collide, drama ensues and the everyday struggle of a musician is brought to light.

You can watch an exclusive preview of “$5 Cover” below and head over to MTV.com for interviews with each artist. I don’t know about you, but I’m hoping this one sticks around for a while. You can read more on the show in a great LA Times piece here.

MTV Shows

What do you think? Will you be watching? Follow along on the show’s blog here.

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Features

Blast From the Past: Up Close with John Travolta

As I’m going through the archives of my past work I completely forgot about one of the most exciting days for me while interning at MTV News, nearly two years ago. I’d go into more detail, but my blog for MTV News’ MySpace page describes the day’s event of meeting John Travolta pretty well, so read it below!

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Up Close — Maybe A Little Too Close — With John Travolta

Last Thursday, everyone at MTV News was working hard breaking the latest Britney Spears news when producer Justin Tormey asked me to help him set up for a shoot with John Travolta. I couldn’t say no! I helped him once before but I was never able to stay for a live interview, and I was super psyched.

Before interning at MTV, I never realized that a shoot can happen almost anywhere. Most times, all you need is a backdrop, some cameras, good lighting and microphones — with the help of people who know what they’re doing to film what’s going on.

Thursday’s shoot took place in a conference room on the 44th floor shortly after Travolta made his appearance on “TRL” talking about his new movie, “Wild Hogs.” I helped Justin and a few others search throughout the building for available equipment since much of the things we needed were being used for shoots in other locations. After setting up the backdrop and cameras and perfecting the lighting and sound, Josh Horowitz, MTV Movies editor, soon entered with John Travolta.

Josh talked to John about various topics during the interview. A big aviator, John talked of how he enjoys flying planes in his spare time and touched on the current generation of performers, such as Justin Timberlake, and their impact on the industry today.

(Read what Travolta had to say right here.)

It was interesting to hear Travolta talk about his former movies and musicals and learn that if he had more time he wouldn’t mind singing and putting out an album. He will be appearing in the musical “Hairspray,” and said it’s like a sequel to “Grease,” despite it taking place a few years earlier. It was really cool to hear John talk of people in the industry who have influenced him as well as current actors he may have influenced.

Throughout the interview I couldn’t help but notice that while Josh and was interviewing John, the two looked like they were sitting a little too close to each other. When watching the footage from the interview you don’t notice it at first, but they definitely seemed to be knocking knees more than just once throughout the interview.

Despite that possible awkwardness, the interview ran so smoothly, and John seemed like such a nice guy, constantly complimenting Josh on what a good question he asked and just seeming overwhelming responsive to every question Josh asked him.

Who knew celebrities could be so down to earth?

— Annie Reuter, MTV News Intern

Watch MTV Rough Cut: John Travolta below or here for the full five clips of the interview.

Movie Trailers – Movies Blog
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News

So Long “TRL”

It was only time I suppose. In a way, I feel like my childhood is now officially over. (I know, I know a bit dramatic). But, I grew up watching “Total Request Live” — lingering outside numerous times to get a glimpse of the Backstreet Boys and other favorite bands of mine throughout high school. My friend was even featured on the 11 o’ clock news from waiting outside for countless hours when police shut down Times Square when the Backstreet Boys were in town. (She has video footage to prove it, believe me I wouldn’t make this up!)

That same friend won tickets for us to be on “TRL” for my 18th birthday — definitely one of the best birthday presents to date. I can still remember the day as if it was yesterday, walking up those escalator stairs at the MTV offices, (thinking it was the coolest thing ever!) before being escorted into the “TRL” studios.

We checked the line-up for the day the previous week and found out that a band called Good Charlotte would be hosting. Twin Benji of the Madden brothers revealed his undying love for Christina Aguilera during that episode. We never heard of Good Charlotte at the time so we did some research and listened to their music and were pretty impressed. A few weeks after, their infamous hit single “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” was released, eventually contributing to their lifestyle becoming that of which they sang about in the song, how ironic.

I’m sure many people my age have similar “TRL” moments and it’s saddening that after a decade of bringing fans closer to their favorite bands and launching many successful careers, the most popular music video countdown is now deceased. It was the “American Bandstand” of our era and I’m sure “TRL” will not be forgotten.

Below are five of the performances from the “TRL” finale aired this past Sunday. Watch as Beyoncé, Fall Out Boy, Ludacris, Nelly, Snoop Dogg, Backstreet Boys and 50 Cent take the stage at the “TRL” headquarters one final time. (After the Beyoncé clip is done, click the video to see the other performances.)

Beyoncé – TRL – MTV Shows

You can also watch the show in it’s entirety, split up into 32 segments, or check out MTV’s listings for when they’ll replay the final episode of “TRL.”

TRL – MTV Shows

And, maybe in a few years there will be documentary shows dedicated to the impact that “TRL” has had in the music industry like the one below of “American Bandstand.” I found this video pretty interesting so I thought I’d share it with you.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NgX6WqzOBM]