As Reuters blogged...

Yusuf Islam, the British folk singer formerly known as Cat Stevens, has largely shunned the pop-music grind since he converted to Islam in the 1977 and devoted his life to his family and his faith.

But he is starting to dip his [balls in it!] toe back in the waters, releasing his first mainstream album in almost 30 years in 2006 and playing his first concert in 28 years in 2007. He returns to stores next week with a new album, "Roadsinger," and will play a handful of intimate shows around the world to promote the release.

First up is a May 3 stop at the Highline Ballroom in New York City, followed by show at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles. Each venue holds about 700 people.

Islam, now 60, last toured in 1976. After converting to Islam, he slowly withdrew from his pop-star life, and finally hung up his guitar after a London show in 1979.

That WAS true, but due to "paperwork" issues, Yusuf won't be able to make into the country in time (he lives in London). No word on whether this was just poor planning, or (a conspiracy theory...) related to the government giving him a hard time for his religious beliefs. The show will probably/hopefully be rescheduled though. Stay tuned.

A video documentary below...

Continue reading "Yusuf Islam (Cat Steven)'s invite-only May 3rd NYC show is cancelled or postponed due to visa/paperwork issues "

Amy Winehouse @ Bowery Ballroom - March 2007 (more)

A spokesman for Amy Winehouse says the singer won't perform in the United States next month, as had been planned.

Spokesman Chris Goodman said Monday that Winehouse isn't going to the Coachella festival in Indio, Calif., in "light of current legal issues."

Winehouse was charged with assault last week for allegedly attacking a fan at a London party in September. The singer is due in court next week.

Being charged with a crime often makes it difficult for people to get U.S. visas. [Billboard] (thx Tye)

That is probably the least surprising news ever announced in history. In related news, "2009 is the 50th anniversary of the founding of Island Records, arguably the most prestigious record label in the history of British music. To mark this milestone the label is collaborating with Island founder Chris Blackwell to arrange the Island 50 festival." A week of live shows is planned in London, and Amy Winehouse is on the bill. More details below...

Continue reading "Amy Winehouse out of Coachella, in for Islands's 50th Fest"