Bieber to lead ‘Japan Aid’

source: manila bulletin

MANILA, Philippines – The world’s biggest record label, Universal Music, recently announced that it is rushing a digital-only album to raise funds for victims of the recent catastrophe in Japan.

Confirmed to be participating in what many now refer to as “Japan Aid” is Canadian teen star Justin Bieber.

Bieber is said to be popular in Japan not only for his bubblegum tunes but also for endorsing a brand of pimple cream.

Other stars reportedly eager to take part in the endeavor alongside The Bieber are septuagenarians, Bon Jovi and U2. Pop singer Lady Gaga, part of the Universal stable of artists, might also join in the curious affair, having already made his concern for Japan apparent when she raised money for the victims of the natural disaster by selling a special “Gaga Wristband.”

According to the label the album will be available by the end of the week with proceeds going to the Japanese Red Cross.

Black wants a duet with Bieber

In related news, 13-year old Rebecca Black, a California teenager that zoomed to popularity via YouTube is aching to do a duet with The Bieber.

According to Black, working with the Canadian pop sensation would be a dream come true.

"I have Bieber fever," said she in a report. "I am in love with Justin Bieber."

Black gained notice after the video for her song, “Friday,” made it among YouTube’s most watched list---but not because it was good.

The song as with Black’s singing was mercilessly panned by users of the video-sharing site with over 225,946 clicking the “dislike” button.

Music critics agree. Time magazine even described "Friday" as a "train wreck" and the video as "hilariously dreadful."

Nonetheless, the tune eventually rocketed at number 45 on the iTunes list of best-selling 99-cent singles; not bad for Black who, it seemed, had only grown more confident despite the numerous put downs. In an interview with ABC's “Good Morning America” Black admitted that some of the nastier comments had made her cry.

"I felt like this [the criticism] was my fault and I shouldn't have done this [release her music] and this is all because of me,” she said.

But she got over it.

"Now I don't feel that way," she said.

"I think I have talent on some level.

“I don't think I'm the worst singer but I don't think I'm the best singer."

Ricky urged Latin America to ‘share the love’

As this was developing, Latin pop star Ricky Martin continue to urge people to spread gay rights throughout Latin America.

"Let's go Latin America and let's share the love," said he during a recent gala organized by New York's Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) where he was honored with the Vito Russo Award--named for the late gay activist and film historian--for being an exemplary gay role model.

In his speech, Martin, father of twin boys with a surrogate mother, thanked his parents and boyfriend.

"I just want to be free. I can say, today I am free," the Puerto Rican singer said.

The 39 year-old, famous for a number of hits including his 1999 single "Livin' la Vida Loca" came out to reveal he is gay in 2010 after more than a decade in the international spotlight.

GLAAD promotes positive images of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the media. It will present additional media awards in Los Angeles on April 10 and San Francisco on May 14.

source: manila bulletin