Casey Abrams, said that it sounds too

"I'm feeling really good," Casey Abrams said Friday, as he answered post-elimination questions. The 20-year-old singer from Idyllwild, Calif., did appear in good spirits as he reflected on his American Idol experiences.

In retrospect, Casey says, he might have growled too much, something he tends to do when he loses himself in a performance. He's not involved with fellow contestant Haley Reinhart, he says, despite gossip to the contrary. And, when he found himself on stage with Scotty McCreery toward the end of the results show, Casey was pretty sure he knew which one of them was headed for the exit.

But it's all good. "Maybe I'll break down crying some other time."

An edited transcript of the conference call follows:

You gave a nice shout-out to Haley at the end of your song last night. Were you saying goodbye to more than a duet partner?

I was saying goodbye to my very special musical friend. That's all it was.

Are you and Haley a romantic couple?

No, we are not.

Were you ever dating?

We were never dating.

You play a lot of instruments. Besides the bass and the electric bass, what other instruments do you play?

Yes, actually. The guitar I've actually played on the show. Piano, the melodica -- those are the ones I've played on the show. But I also like playing the drums, the sitar, accordion, the clarinet. I took lessons for about a month on the sitar, but everything else I've just kind of self taught.

Of all the instruments that you play, which one's your favorite?

I didn't mention it, but I really like the cello. I don't think I play it the best, but I love the sound, because it can be like a violin or a bass. That's beautiful.

Have you had formal vocal training?

I've had vocal training in Colorado, and I've had some singing lessons, over many years in the past. Like, maybe in fourth grade.

Last night, when you closed the show, you seemed like you were having a blast. What was going through your head?

What was going through my mind was just, "Make this good." I was completely on random mode. I didn't plan on ending up on Haley, it just happened. Nothing was planned, and that's what I think sometimes in the best performance. Like, in jazz, when you improvise and play a different solo each time, it's the best feeling in the world.

You brought us a lot of music to Idol that hadn't been heard on the show before. Was that a goal for you, to introduce new music to Idol viewers?

I couldn't feel anything less than amazing. I feel that I've done something pretty cool in this competition. But the thing is, so has everyone else from the Top 13. Look at Paul, bringing all the folky stuff, and Jacob, bringing all the gospel. I think we're all doing our part to make American Idol a little bit different from last year and the years before.

What would your vision be for a Casey Abrams concert?

Pure Craziness is probably the title. There'd be everything. The last two performances [before this week] -- Harder to Breathe and Nature Boy -- sum me up. Let's rock this hard and have some fun, then let's slow it down and play some smooth jazz.

Who's the better kisser? JLo or Steven Tyler?

Steven Tyler. JLo just let me kiss her, but Steven Tyler kissed me back. It's a different story.

You said you didn't plan on some of the things you were doing in that final song. Are you just kind of like that normally, the kind of guy who will kiss somebody more than shake their hand?

Nah, I'm not a big kisser. When I'm on the stage and people are watching, I tend to do things nobody would expect. I think people were going to expect I was going to kiss JLo again, so I tried Steven Tyler, then I tried the whole audience. I think that was kind of unexpected. I try to think, what are you going to say, and what am I going to say that's totally different from that?

What has Idol done for your confidence as a performer?

Every single thing. I used to not like to sing in public. Now, I feel like I'm singing a little bit too much: I'll sing in hallways with people I don't even know. Maybe that's a bad thing, but I just feel a lot more comfortable on stage. I feel like I can do anything on stage now.

Who do you sing to on stage? Anyone in particular?

Not really. I try to look at random people and get strangers to feel my pain or my happiness. Like, if I were on a street corner, I would want everybody who was walking by to look me in the eye and feel what I was saying.

Jimmy Iovine said about your growling, "The family dog does not vote on this show." Is that cruel or good advice?

Honestly, it's hilarious, and it is good advice. I listen back, and I think I was growling a little bit too much. I was having more fun than paying attention to what was going on musically. You've got to have that good balance, and I don't think I had that balance that time. Jimmy Iovine's funny, man.

You went to the hospital early in the season because of your ulcer problem. How did you get that under control, because you never made any trips back that we knew of?

I just kept on getting injections of that good old medicine that really helped me out. I learned how to deal with the stress a little bit more than I have been. The show has been helping me, because I learned how to talk to people, communicate. Talking to Jimmy Iovine and really standing up for myself, it relieves stress. I usually just hold it in, but the fact that I told people how I felt made me a different person. It's going to be less ulcers.

The judges told you to tame the growling and stop staring into the camera. You took that advice but, during the last couple weeks, it seemed like it was back. Were you ignoring their advice?

It is kind of how I sing when I don't think about. I think that's a good place to be, when you don't think about how you sing. Maybe the Maroon 5 and Hi-De-Ho needed it, but I think maybe I gave it a little bit too much. It's a gray area, so it's hard to define what's a good growl and what's a bad growl.

Did you ever expect to get this far after the judges used their save on you? Or did you think you'd only get another week or two after that?

That's what I was really afraid of, and that's why I knew I had to work hard. It would have been embarrassing if I got cut the next week, so I tried to work hard. I didn't expect to really make it to the top. I expected to maybe make it this far. This is, like, exactly what I expected. I can't be mad at that.

Did you have some songs in mind to sing next week for the "Now and Then" theme?

I was thinking from the '60s, maybe like Eleanor Rigby with an acoustic guitar and just sitting on stage. We weren't really sure what "Now" meant, so I was going to try Smooth by Santana or may be a Blink-182 song, just for fun.

What will the first post-Idol album for Casey Abrams look like?

It would definitely have a beard on it and maybe an upright bass. Stylistically, it could be rock, it could be jazz. I have a feeling it's going to be a mixture of rock 'n' roll and some jazzy chords.

You gave a shout-out to Oscar Peterson. What sort of musical education have you had?

Idyllwild Arts Academy. I was one of the only day students who went to the boarding school. So I had the car.

I learned from Marshall Hawkins, my jazz teacher, for about three years. He just taught me the fundamentals. He showed me all this great music. He taught me piano and upright bass. That's why I know a lot of the artists I know these days.

What kind of stresses were you under, being in this competition?

I guess I was just scared of looking stupid on stage, because I didn't know a certain song. I wasn't stressed out this week, because I really didn't know both of the songs I was supposed to sing. I think I had more fun with Haley because I fed off of her energy.

Did you get to talk to Crystal Bowersox last night?

We had a nice conversation. She gave us these cool little microphones. She just waited outside while I was in a conference so she could give me the microphone. It's the little things. She didn't let stardom ruin her. She's awesome, and I loved her performance last night. She had an organ solo and the slide guitar -- it was just so fun.

Pia Toscano said she had a premonition the week she was eliminated. How about you? Did you have a feeling last night that this might be it?

I don't know what it was. Maybe it was that everyone was so incredible that time. I felt like my performance was pretty good, but seeing Jacob kill it, and Haley kill it, then Scotty and Lauren kill it, James Durbin, obviously. It made me feel like, "These guys are incredible. These guys could carry the show. I don't really need to be here. So if I go home tomorrow, I'm prepared.

Do you feel the American Idol thing will hurt your being accepted as a serious musician?

I've always worried about that. But my goal is to bring that kind of music into the popular culture. I don't think the serious musicians have to take me as a serious musician. I just want to get them better known.

Have you ever thought that maybe you'd be cuter without the beard?

I thought about it, but I don't think it would work. If I shave, I don't have a chin anymore.

If you were to take one thing away from your American Idol experience, a treasured memory, what would it be?

Definitely the people you meet. There's a lot of people that can get up on that stage and sing. Even people that got cut really can sing. It's this experience of living with all these other serious singers that really just made the experience what it is. That's what I'm going to miss most about it, to be honest with you.

What were you feeling when you were standing there with Scotty at the end?

A little bit of nervousness, but more like, "Let's get this over with. Let me sing. Just call my name already."

I just had this feeling, as soon as Jacob and Scotty were there and Jacob went off, I was, like, "No one's going to do anything to Scotty, so I'll see you guys later."

What did the judges tell you at any point in the season that will stick with you?

During a results show, Steven Tyler looked over at me and he did this motion, he pretended he had a razor and started shaving his beard. I followed that. I'll remember that, because that was very nice of him.

Last night, after dress rehearsal, he came up and said some really nice things and some constructive criticism. So did Jennifer Lopez. Randy said some nice things backstage, too. He says he's going to teach me how to slap bass, because I really need to learn how to do that. He's like air-bassing. It's been useful.

Did you get better advice from the judges offstage than what we heard on the show?

Off-camera, it feels better, because they're looking you in the eyes and standing right next to you. So when Jennifer Lopez is, like, "I'm sorry I said that to you yesterday; I do it out of love," stuff like that makes me feel a lot better.

Do you have any closing remarks?

Don't take yourself too seriously. Take music seriously, but not yourself.

To report corrections and clarifications, contact Standards Editor Brent Jones. For publication consideration in the newspaper, send comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include name, phone number, city and state for verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.

"Book of Mormon" leads Drama Desk nominations

NEW YORK - The book of Mormon and the wacky revival of Anything Goes musical layman has received the most nominations Friday, Drama Desk, which pays tribute to Broadway and Broadway productions. By Joan Marcus, AP

Andrew Rannells performs with an ensemble cast in the book of Mormon in the theatre Eugene O'Neill in New York.

By Joan Marcus, AP

Andrew Rannells performs with an ensemble cast in the book of Mormon in the theatre Eugene O'Neill in New York.

The book of Mormon, by the creators of South Park and Avenue Q, complacency, 12 nominations, including those of the best music, lyrics, music, direction and choreography. Acting nominations of the show went to Andrew Rannells, Rory O'Malley and Nikki M. James.The book of Mormon was a critical and box-office darling. He also received an appointment of Fred & Adele Astaire Award, which recognizes excellence in dance, and six Outer Critics Circle Award nominations.The musical, about two Mormon missionaries who are more that they negotiated in Africa, was written by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of South Park and Robert Lopez, co-creator of the Tony Award-winning musical Avenue Q. All three were nominated for the show of music, books and words. Casey Nicholaw, who co-directed with Parker and choreographed, was also nominated.The Cole Porter musical Anything Goes received 10 nominations, including the best musical revival and Sutton Foster as best actress, Colin Donnell as best actor, Adam Godley as player features and Kathleen Marshall as Director.Other individual nominations went to Daniel Radcliffe, made his debut singing in how to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying; Al Pacino in the merchant of Venice. Geoffrey Rush in the diary of a madman. Mark Rylance in Jerusalem. and Edie Falco in the Blue House of Leaves.Nominations for best new play went to the other cities of the desert of Jon Robin Baitz, The Motherfuckers Stephen Adly Guirgis--with Hat, Tiger of Bengal of Rajiv Joseph at the Baghdad ZooDavid Lindsay-Abaire of good people.Exceptional Stafford Nick war horse and Adam Bock A Small Fire.Nominations of the musical went in Transit, Priscilla mad desert: The Musical, see Rock City & other Destinations, Sister Act, the book of Mormon and The Kid.Three other shows - Bloody Bloody Andrew JacksonBrève meeting and of Scottsboro Boys - obtained no nominations this year because they were already considered for the season 2009-2010 .the Drama Desk Awards will be presented at a ceremony organized by Harvey Fierstein on 23 may at the Hammerstein Ballroom. The ceremony will be broadcast on the cable channel Ovation in June.

A feast fit for a future King and Queen

A good marriage may make you hungry. By John Stillwell, AFP/Getty Images

Eight-tiered wedding cake made by Fiona Cairns and his team awaits the newlyweds.

By John Stillwell, AFP/Getty Images

Eight-tiered wedding cake made by Fiona Cairns and his team awaits the newlyweds.

But 650 lucky guests who attended lunch post-wedding of today at Buckingham Palace had some concerns about a lack of food.Non.You calculate how much is it per person.And it was all washed with Champagne. Of course.The reception in the blue room at the Palace immediately followed the ceremony at Westminster Abbey which included the traditional Kiss by young married on the balcony outside. The crowd roared.Hosted by the Queen, the reception was packed with members of the British Royal family, foreign members of Royal families, heads of State and a few celebrities for the glitter factor. Among them: David and Victoria Beckham and singer Elton John.Guests have entertained by Claire Jones, harpist official of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.Breaking of tradition, Prince William and his fiancée has decided on a lunch buffet-style rather than a more luxurious seated mealwhich is the tradition. (Grandmother of William celebrated his wedding in 1947 with fillet of sole Mountbatten and a bomb Ice Princess Elizabeth).Details about food at the reception were initially Park, but blocked included offerings that may be consumed in only two bites.On the buffet table: Cornish Crab Salad blini lemon; pressed duck with fruit chutney terrine; Roulade of chevre with caramelized nuts; Scottish smoked salmon grew beets blini. Pie miniatures asparagus and watercress. eggs of quail with celery salt. Scottish langoustines with lemon mayonnaise; pressed confit of pork belly with crayfish and crackling.And of course, comforting English made an appearance: bubble and squeak with confit shoulder of lamb and miniature Yorkshire pudding roast beef tenderloin with horseradish foam.This was followed by "pudding," as the candy are known in Britain: Opera cake, orange fruit pie, raspberry financial and crème brûlée rhubarb tart of blood.The Queen attends as for liquids, beer did not offer, as it is considered to be downgraded for any event. This despite the fact that a couple of beers were already was named after the newlyweds - ale "kiss Me Kate" and "Node Windsor."The Champagne of choice was non vintage Pol Roger, who has never been served at a royal wedding. This is Winston Churchill favorite and remains a popular Champagne in England.

Contribution: Traci Watson

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Evening gives of newlyweds, chance of friends of hair let down

When there is a will, there is an evening.Or, in the case of Prince William and his fiancée, Kate, there are two. By John Stillwell, AP

Kate is a strapless number with diamante detailing around the waist, also by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

By John Stillwell, AP

Kate is a strapless number with diamante detailing around the waist, also by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

After saying their "I wills," warping for public smooches and password for an impromptu drive, the couple now known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended their second wedding day reception, this time for 300 of their more close and more expensive.Dinner and dance followed the first receipt of marriage, which was granted by Queen Elizabeth for 650 guests and held at Buckingham Palace directly after the wedding. Kate has transformed into an another white frock coat, this time a number strapless diamante with detailing around the waist, also by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, for the bash at the Palace. Her husband is a tuxedo, as did his father-in-law. And the sister of Kate, Pippa wore an emerald green dress by Temperley London British fashion house. Royals including Princess Anne and her daughter, Zara Phillips, were seen arriving at the fete. Was the second-party at the Palace hosted by Prince Charles and Prince Harry, younger brother William and The best man, was to give a toast. Queen Elizabeth did not attend. The reason for the celebration of the second? "William and Kate can invite everyone to everything." "There are too many people", says Andrea Correale of elegant Affairs, which has planned parts of Mariah Carey, P. Diddy and Russell Simmons. "This is a let-your-hair-down reception for family and close friends."Even in circles not Royal, multiple receptions are becoming more frequent, party planner said Lisa Vorce, which has the intention of the events for Kobe Bryant and the family of Clooney. In most cases, the first gathering is more formal, while the second is where guests hang out and relax. For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

Prince William, Middleton sea in royal fashion

 LONDON — The wedding of the century wrapped in about an hour Friday as Britain's Prince William married Catherine "Kate" Middleton in a storybook ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

By Martin Meissner, AP

Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, stand outside of Westminster Abbey after their wedding.

By Martin Meissner, AP

Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, stand outside of Westminster Abbey after their wedding.

The longtime sweethearts began dating while students at the University of St. Andrews in 2002. Their on-again, off-again relationship, cemented by an engagement announcement in November, restored fascination and luster to a British monarchy on levels unmatched since the star-crossed marriage of Prince William's mother, Lady Diana, to Prince Charles in July 1981.

William, 28, is second in line to the throne. Kate, 29, a commoner, is the daughter of Michael and Carole Middleton, a former British Airways flight supervisor and flight attendant who became self-made millionaires after starting an Internet mail-order business.

William appeared to mouth the words "you look beautiful" when Kate joined him at the altar. Though the groom seemed composed, the bride tightly gripped her father's hand before saying her vows, reciting them so softly they were hard to hear. As William slipped the wedding ring onto Kate's finger, it got hung up for a moment on her finger joint until he finally coaxed it into place. She escaped any such awkwardness: Her husband will not wear a wedding ring, standard for male royal family members.

The celebrity-studded event, attended by 1,900, included singer Elton John, soccer star David Beckham and scores of royals and luminaries. A global TV audience was estimated at 2 billion, many who began watching coverage at 4 a.m. ET. About 650 were invited to a post-wedding lunch given by the queen, and 300 close friends of William and Kate's were expected for an evening dinner and dance. Prince Harry, William's younger brother and the best man, planned a Saturday morning breakfast for those with the stamina to party all night.

Royal fever was widespread in the USA, where events included live viewing in New York's Times Square and a celebration party complete with prince and princess attire at Walt Disney World's Wedding Pavilion. For months, the media have been filled with royal wedding stories, building to frenzied coverage over the past week. More than 8,000 journalists, photographers and other media types covered the event.

There was speculation over attendees, wedding cakes, honeymoon locales and the bride's wedding dress.

For the record: Kate wore a white Sarah Burton creation with a 9-foot train and an ivory veil trimmed with embroidered flowers, held in place by a Cartier Halo tiara borrowed from the queen. "I thought the dress was elegant and it hit that perfect balance of being a dress that reflected her personal style, but was also appropriate for the regal event and location," said Darcy Miller, editorial director of Martha Stewart Weddings.

The bouquet was shield-shaped with myrtle, lily of the valley, sweet William and hyacinth and made by floral designer Shane Connolly. The tradition of carrying myrtle began with Queen Victoria.

Prince William, a Royal Air Force officer who serves as a search-and-rescue pilot, wore a cap and mounted officer dress uniform, befitting his honorary appointment in the Royal Army. He is commissioned in all three armed services and was made honorary colonel of the Irish Guards last year. His choice of uniform was considered a diplomatic move in light of the queen's scheduled visit to Ireland next month.

As custom, William received a new title before the wedding, when his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II bestowed the title of duke of Cambridge — the highest rank in British peerage — on him. Kate will be known as the duchess of Cambridge. They were also given the Scottish titles of earl and countess of Strathearn.

A testimony to British tradition, the wedding offered many, especially Britons, some respite from hard economic times and a government-imposed austerity plan. There were even betting pools wagering on everything from the color of the queen's hat to who might cry at the ceremony to potential gaffes.

"I'm not a massive royal family watcher, but it's been absolutely fascinating, in part because William is very much Diana's son," says Nathalie Haxby, communication director for British media agency MEC who watched the event on TV. "But it's as much about the fairy tale — Kate becoming a princess and ascending to this royal, fairy-tale family."

Expat Margaret Jones, an executive assistant who has lived in Indiana since 1983, planned to DVR the event. "The pomp and circumstance is a nice positive thing to watch," she said.

The palace has not disclosed the cost of the wedding, but estimates are in the tens of millions of dollars. The royal family and Middleton's parents paid for the wedding; British taxpayers picked up the tab for security, about $32 million.

London police estimate that up to 1 million wedding enthusiasts flooded the streets in densely packed London, including many who camped on the streets for days before the big event. Worries that anarchists would spoil the festivities proved unfounded. The Metropolitan Police announced that as of midday, they'd arrested 43 people in or near the wedding area, mostly for minor offenses such as breach of the peace and drunkenness.

Generally, royal watchers were well behaved. When William and Kate left Westminster Abbey in a horse-drawn carriage bound for Buckingham Palace, they drew huge cheers from flag-waving well-wishers.

About an hour after the ceremony, the couple exchanged two brief kisses before an adoring crowd at Buckingham Palace. Later, the couple took a brief unscripted ride on London's Mall in Prince Charles' vintage Aston Martin convertible, waving to fans outside Buckingham Palace, with William behind the wheel. The license plate read "JU5T? WED."

Anne Larsen, 34, flew in from Boulder, Colo., on Thursday. "I was giddy flying in yesterday. I had butterflies in my stomach."

Larsen had planned to watch the wedding on the Mall but wound up in a restaurant near St. James's Palace. As she sipped Champagne, Larsen checked her phone. "All my friends are up at home. I've had about 25 texts," she said.

Louise Llewellyn brought daughter Megan, 15, in from Southampton. "We're royalists," Louise said. They plotted where to go for the best viewing spot. "We've got milk crates with us," she said, in case they needed to step above the crowd.

Jonathan Nosworthy of rural Warwickshire watched with daughters Rebecca, 4, and Ellie, 5. "It's fun for the little ones to be able to talk about this when they're 90. Not that anyone can really see anything, anyway," Nosworthy said. "They're obsessed with it."

Eugenia Preoteasa, a Romanian immigrant who works in catering, had her nose pressed up against the plate-glass window of a restaurant just off Piccadilly. Inside, flat-screen TVs carried images of a beaming Kate inside Westminster Abbey.

"Oh my, oh my, she is just so beautiful," says Preoteasa of Braila, Romania. "I was waiting and so curious to see about if she would wear her hair down, and she did."

Preoteasa said Kate reminds her of a daughter studying piano in Birmingham, Ala. "She will certainly be calling me to ask about the details of the day here. And you know what? Her name is Diana," she says with a smile.

Why not just stay at home in front of her own TV? "No, I had to be out here," she says, sweeping an arm toward the flag-waving throngs passing by. "This is what it is all about. Everyone celebrating together."

Contributing: Traci Watson, Arienne Thompson and the Associated Press

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CNBC anchor Erin Burnett, jumping on CNN

By Todd Plitt, USA TODAY

Erin Burnett, center, morning of NBCC co-anchors show Squawk on the street, alongside Becky Quick and Mark Haines company.

"Three stages of amazement" familiar bed

A marriage between a couple of medium and high-end age. By David Matheson

Uncle Cal copyright Carol Edgarian is quite aged 79, character mogul Silicone Valley.

By David Matheson

Uncle Cal copyright Carol Edgarian is quite aged 79, character mogul Silicone Valley.

EC-is-nos-time atmosphere (Barack Obama is the new President and the economy has stagnated) in a wired setting (San Francisco). An ambitious dream (a device surgical robotics) by the husband that can make or break the family. A dissatisfied woman who is cruelly attempted by a sexy old flame.UM, Jonathan Franzen has another new novel? No, but in three stages of astonishment, Carol Edgarian has certainly a Franzenesque thing going on - which, in the wake of the epic freedom of the Franzen, makes his novel feel like a retread.But Edgarian written by point of view of a woman and she can find a Sisterhood of sympathetic readers among women who are likely to embrace Lena Rusch, with her sick baby (whose twin died at birth) and physician husband Charlie Pepperthat she loves alternately and driving her crazy. And then there good old Italian for Lena, Allesandro, reappears as some morsel tasty Eat, Pray, Love.Three stages of astonishment
By Carol Edgarian
Scribner, 298 pp., $25The Lena-Charlie-Allesandro triangle, alas, failed to reposition my temperature much higher 98.6. But my racing pulse literary is more fascinating to Edgarian, Lena create blurs with Uncle, 79-year-old Cal Rusch, who holds the key to the future Lena and Charlie.Cette mogul legendary Silicon Valley - a diabolically intelligent between Steve Jobs and Donald Trump cross - defines the pages on firewhenever it occurs.When scorching old Cal is around, three steps really impress.For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

Photos: See where Kate Middleton grew

The "Instrument of consent," which is the formal consent of historic Queen to the marriage of Prince William, Kate Middleton, is posted to the Office of the Crown to the House of Lords Thursday in London.

Under the great seal of the realm, Queen Elizabeth signed a notice developed approval which was proclaimed in transcribed calligraphy, consent to the union of "" our most dearly Beloved grandson Prince William Arthur Philip Louis of Wales, K.G., and our trusty and well-beloved Catherine Elizabeth Middleton. ""

"idol" followed sales: David Cook, Carrie Underwood, more

The Last Goodbye of David Cook made her debut with 22 000 downloads after he performed the song on American Idol last week. But Idol was not the only television show are boosting sales of the runway. Downloads of the registration of Carrie Underwood How Great Thou Art has soared after she sang the anthem on girls Night Out the CBS: special Superstar women of the country.

After Haley Reinhart sings that adele roll in depth, the trail has almost doubled its weekly sales. 297,000 downloads, it was most popular track of the last week. Also, it seems that cover Muse James Durbin resonated with fans: sales of uplift raised 686% after it she sang on the show last week, selling 50,000 copies.

Adele, roll in the deep (297,000, + 99%, purchased $ million)
Katy Perry, E.T. (feat.) (Kanye West) (270 000 + 23%, 1.883 $ million)
Jennifer Lopez feat. Pitbull, On the Floor (149 000, + 19%, millions of 1,383)
Muse uprising (50,000 + 686%, 1.635 $ million)
Jennifer Lopez, Papi (27 000 + 1,504%, 28 000)
David Cook, The Last Goodbye (22 000, debut, 22 000)
Rockmafia, the Big Bang (275 000, 20 000, + 51%)
Miley Cyrus The Climb (14,000 + 16%, 3.217 $ million)
Carrie Underwood, how great Thou Art (13 000 + 1,560%, 141 000)
MANDISA, stronger (6 000, - 8%, 18,000)

See pictures of: Carrie Underwood, David Cook

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Frampton, as in the Mia Rose, comes alive

Peter Frampton baby, I Love Your Way has served as a musical aphrodisiac for millions since its mid-golden age of the 1970s, but he has had the opposite effect when he played on the New Orleans set of the film which is What I mod WWE Studios

MIA Rose Frampton, daughter of Peter Frampton, stars in the comedy coming of age, which is what I am.

WWE Studios

MIA Rose Frampton, daughter of Peter Frampton, stars in the comedy coming of age, which is what I am.

"When I heard the song start, I was like, 'I can't deal with this right now,'"actress Mia Rose Frampton recalls, laughing. "It was just weird and awkward. "It was also to prepare for a pivotal scene of kisses and hear classical music written by his father threw her off the coast. "They had it extinguished immediately," she said.The starlet budding is part of a new generation of musical progeny break on a new stage this summer. Among Frampton join them inscribed on the list of offspring a list: daughter of Phil Collins Lily Collins and son of the Notorious B.I.G. Christopher Jordan Wallace. All hope to make the transition that Liv Tyler has made, ranging from the daughter of rocker Steven Tyler to actress in demand. His last released in vehicle, the corniche, also opens this summer.But history has shown pedigree not guaranteed a second generation of success. "As a parent, need you to make the waiver", explains elder Frampton. "You have to say show business is terrible to go to the profession.". Even if you have a lot of talent, it is difficult enough. "And while the music world has its fair share of talented crooners that never make the big, Frampton stage, 61, admitted the rejection confronted the players is unparalleled. "It is much more difficult," he said. "It's like me audition for another band every day... and be slaughtered most of the time".But the same drive that pushed him to the scene is pushing his daughter to the screen. "" I want to do something extraordinary ", said Mia Rose. In addition, she has genes from his father. "I love just being the Centre of attention," she added. "I certainly get the part of ham of my father."The first year of high school, 15, was a humming this spring: it is the object of the crash of a young boy in that is what I am (opening Friday) and was a scene memorable verbal fight with Kristen Wiig in the comedy Bridesmaids.Naturallyany discussion of famous descendants brings the theme of a possible unfair advantage. "Yes, I helped at the beginning." "It helped for me to make a phone call, absolutely", said Frampton. "This is the advantage of the fringe to be there where I am." Still, he added an introduction can be a career only so far: "when she enters the door of the hearing, it is either right or that it is not the Director." There is nothing I - or family name - can do next. "This is what I Am Director Michael Pavone said that the name Frampton was moot because he reviewed tapes of the hearing and gravitated to the performance on the screen. "I said,"I like this girl right there."" I had no idea. When I read his name, I thought it was that Frampton. "While Pavone insists that"Mia Rose was cast because she was the best person for the part", the Director admits the revelation possible and frequent visits by dad set have been, well,"pretty cool ".For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

This week in Phonography: your best phone pics!

It is time for Phonography, our weekly feature in which we get a little better knowing Pop Candy readers by reading of photos from their cell phone.

Before we climb, don't forget that you can submit to Phonography by e-mailing popcandy@usatoday.com. Be sure to include your name, city, and a brief description of the photo!

My photos of top 10 o ' of the week:

"We will start with Alyssa M.:" while picking up a new area of our Office of Warner Cable, at Buffalo local time, we spotted this random sculpture, 10 feet in height of Daffy holding a camera, "she says.".No idea why, but I thought it was super-rad! »

C. Alicia Dallas: "from my favorite deli: breakfast sausage in the form of cochon." So badly but fascinating! »

K. Lewis sent this photo of "shrimp boats still does work does not in Biloxi, Miss, one year after the oil spill."

"My husband a me Maui my 40th birthday," says born in Wilmington, Barb. "walking around downtown, far we have seen this guy the setting sun and thinking, shooting" what cool by. ". Then we realized that this was not a guy but a statue. »

"Here is a picture of my annual Easter cake, says Lisa g. (stardoors)." It is a recipe for banana cake my grandma. She used to do an each year at Easter. I have now taken over the tradition. »

Kevin w. sent this pic: "my 3-year-old twins were playing with a toy plastic telescope, and I decided to put on my iPhone lens to see what would happen." And this is what happened. »

Mark p.: "Old Missouri state pen in Jefferson City!"

"I have a season ticket for the Philadelphia soul, our city arena (indoor) soccer team," explains Mike n. "my seats are in the third row behind the bench at home on the 50 yard line." The soul has played their first game at home in the season on Friday. I was there and took this photo. »

Robert Governor in Secaucus, New Jersey: "this is a shot of my seat at Madison Square Garden during LCD soundsystem, never of the last show, when thousands of balloons fell from the ceiling." "An incredible night that I will never forget".

And finally, s. Topher in Seattle: "I took this photo on my foot lunchtime to get my weekly comics in my comic shop to the Place Market of Pike.". It was a day of rare beautiful spring in Seattle! »

Thank you for all the beautiful pictures this week and keep em coming! Check the previous Thursday following for Phonography selections more!

Previously:

-Phonography for April 22
-Phonography for April 14
- Phonography for April 7
- Phonography for March 31
- Phonography for March 24
- Phonography for March 17
- Phonography for March 10
-More readers phone peaks

To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.

X - Ray Spex singer Poly styrene dies at 53

London (AP)--Poly styrene, singer with curly braces which belted out Oh bondage, up yours! with the band X-ray Spex, died at the age of 53. By Evening Standard, Getty Images

Poly styrene, right, the former singer of the punk band x - Ray Spex, died Monday after a battle against cancer of the breast which is widespread in his spine and lungs. She is represented here with members of his group in this photo of 1978.

By Evening Standard, Getty Images

Poly styrene, right, the former singer of the punk band x - Ray Spex, died Monday after a battle against cancer of the breast which is widespread in his spine and lungs. She is represented here with members of his group in this photo of 1978.

Styrene, whose real name was Marion Elliott-Said, was suffering from cancer.A statement on the official website of the singer and Twitter feed said Tuesday that "the beautiful Poly styrene, which was a true fighter, won his battle Monday evening to go to higher places."Boy George was among those honoured on Twitter, writing, "Oh you bless Poly will miss you!" Legend! "X Ray Spex released a single album, teenagers free of germ of 1978. But its aggressively catchy single Oh Bondage, in your place! becomes a sustainable punk anthem.Said later styrene - a joyous shout-out Maverick - song was inspired by the iconic bondage designed by Vivienne Westwood pants. "" Some people think that young girls should be seen and not heard "styrene sings - before letting everyone knows exactly what she thought of this idea.British and Somali heritage, styrene was born in 1957 in the suburbs of London of Bromley - a whirlpool quiet corner with a series of strong rock ' does roll was also the childhood home of David Bowie, Billy Idol and Siouxsie Sioux.As a teenager, she released a single from reggae be inspired to form a punk group after seeing the Sex Pistols play in 1976. X Ray Spex unmarked the punk crowd during his short career, because of its singer and saxophone player, especially in the range.Attitude and energy of styrene inspired other singers, and she has often been cited as a precursor of the "riot grrrl" movement of the years 1990 styrene later joined the Hare Krishna movement and released several solo albums - the latest generation Indigolast month.She told the BBC in an interview that she would like to recall something spiritual, but "I know that I will probably be remembered for Oh Bondage, in your place!"Earlier this year she revealed that she was battling cancer of the breast which had extended to his spine and lungs, but said she hopes to defeat the disease through a combination of conventional medicine and alternative remedies.She is survived by his daughter, Celeste Bell - Dos Santos, who gives the band beginning Disco.

New Orleans is back, and therefore the talent

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After Katrina struck in 2005, trombonist Glen David Andrews fled to Houston, where he landed gigs in every major club.

Jim Brock Photography

Shamarr Allen's latest album, Box Who In?, is a fitting title for a musician who fuses jazz, big band, funk, hip-hop and Latin influences.

Jim Brock Photography

Shamarr Allen's latest album, Box Who In?, is a fitting title for a musician who fuses jazz, big band, funk, hip-hop and Latin influences.

"When you get displaced like that, it's important to strike up the band and play where you are," he says. As a well-paid ambassador of historic neighborhood Tremé, "it wasn't a bad situation."

Still, the Texas honeymoon was brief.

"I was back in New Orleans within six months," says Andrews, 30. "The city was empty, so I played for the contractors. I lived in a FEMA trailer for two years. The majority of musicians are home now. And it's amazing. Nothing can hold the soul and spirit of New Orleans down. The culture lives and thrives.

"This place is back!"

That may sound like a tourist shop bumper sticker, but it's no hollow sentiment. The cheer echoes throughout the city's music network of artists, label heads, club owners and entertainment media. Musicians, painfully aware that no cultural cavalry would ride in to rescue their careers, recognized the need to return, rally and rebuild.

Nowhere is the strength of local musical muscle more evident than at this year's New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, unfolding on 12 stages Friday through Sunday and May 5-8.

"Local music at the festival is stronger than ever," says producer/director Quint Davis, who sees Louisiana culture, and by extension the festival, entering a golden era. "New Orleans has more highly accomplished, nationally known talent than maybe ever, and it's continuing to grow in all areas. It used to be you'd come to Jazz Fest and not know who was on stage. In 2011, people know."

Much of the region's talent lies in the fest's 50 gospel groups, 35 traditional jazz acts and scores of Cajun and zydeco bands.

The bill is topped by such visiting headliners as Arcade Fire, Kid Rock, Willie Nelson, Bon Jovi, Sonny Rollins and Lauryn Hill, plus a showcase of Haiti's top acts. To demonstrate local clout, Davis meticulously booked each stage to pit favorite sons against national hitmakers, for instance by having The Strokes follow Trombone Shorty, known for his rocking showmanship, crack musicianship and an energetic brass-fueled jazz/funk party vibe.

Like its performers, Jazz Fest was hurt by the costliest hurricane in U.S. history. With the exception of festivals staged after 9/11 and Katrina, attendance had steadily grown since Jazz Fest's 1970 debut, averaging roughly 400,000 in the years leading up to the storm. The 2006 event, salvaged by the sponsorship of Shell Oil, drew only 60,000, still a triumph considering that the city's population was at 50,000.

The festival's launch "pressed coal into a diamond and put all this indigenous music and culture into one place and time," Davis says. "It still has that function. The amazing depth and breadth and quality had a startling effect on locals and eventually the outside world. It still has that effect."

Attendance has returned to pre-K levels. So has the musician headcount.

"These bands that landed in places like Austin, Denver, Seattle and San Francisco were well received and got gigs," Davis says. "It would be a very different scene if they hadn't come home to the funky wah-diddy where there's less money. You'd think a lot of musicians would never come back. But they came home. They tour, but they still live and work in New Orleans."

As a result, the city teems with the live sounds of jazz, R&B, funk, blues, zydeco and hip-hop.

"You can walk off the street and, for practically no cover charge, see someone who headlines a festival in Europe: Germaine Bazzle or James Andrews or Delfeayo Marsalis," Davis says. "The club scene is full-bore every night with acts that are top attractions. Artists in demand internationally choose to make New Orleans their base camp."

Though the city still struggles with a decimated Ninth Ward, a shrunken population (344,000 today vs. 455,000 just before the storm) and a sagging economy, the music scene has fully rebounded since Katrina turned New Orleans into a ghost town.

"The music community has fared amazingly well," says journalist/musician Ben Sandmel, author of Ernie K-Doe biography The Emperor of New Orleans, to be published in 2012. "Right after Katrina, there were a lot of glum pronouncements, almost all by self-appointed pundits from out of town, that New Orleans' music and culture had been completely washed away and that the only thing left would be a Disney-esque facsimile for tourists.

"This analysis really underestimated the resiliency and passion of both the musicians and support organizations such as the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic. The city's music scene came back full strength, thanks to a grassroots, street-level effort. Katrina's scars are still obvious, and local musicians are still scuffling financially, but in terms of spirit and creativity, the New Orleans music community is thriving."

Work is plentiful, if not lucrative, an aggravation that predates Katrina. "In New Orleans, musicians don't get paid nowhere near what they're worth," Andrews says. "But this is where I want to be. When I swing out a good tune, I'm playing in memory of Louis Armstrong and all the people who played before me. The music can't die. This is not the first time we rebuilt, and it won't be the last."

Music journalist John Swenson addresses that periodic restoration in New Atlantis: Musicians Battle for the Survival of New Orleans, just published by Oxford University Press. The book looks at how the city has been repeatedly destroyed, then led back to health by a different economic power.

"This time around, the culture is the driving force behind New Orleans' recovery," Swenson says. "Musicians made sacrifices, commuting to perform before they found new homes. They're taking a hand in making the city work again. Irvin Mayfield has been very involved politically and is trying to rehabilitate the brand of Bourbon Street to be more about music and less about girls gone wild."

Many players who found higher pay in Houston or Atlanta "felt a need to come back. The culture nurtures the music and vice versa," he says. Trombone Shorty, whose Backatown topped Billboard's jazz chart, "built himself into a major talent and easily could have moved to L.A. or New York, but he resolutely stuck it out in New Orleans."

Citizens and city fathers paid heed, boosting support for homegrown talent.

"Because there's no music industry here per se, the city had a tendency to take its music for granted," Swenson says. "In the wake of the flood, it seems the city has recognized the crucial importance that music plays in its identity and future."

Katrina also tweaked attitudes. Even musicians casting the past aside in a rush to modernize the city's cultural image have a renewed appreciation for tradition.

"A lot of elders have perished since the flood," Swenson says. "Many of the young firebrands who were changing the old ways and adapting them to contemporary hip-hop and R&B styles were forced into being teachers while they were still students. Songs they considered entertainment vehicles for conventions were invested with new meaning. They discovered the emotional depth of St. James Infirmary, Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans? and other songs in the New Orleans musical canon."

Katrina's wrath is the common thread stitched into every resident's biography, says Keith Spera, music writer at The Times-Picayune and author of Groove Interrupted: Loss, Renewal and the Music of New Orleans, out Aug. 2 from St. Martin's Press. The book explores New Orleans' music through the post-Katrina tales of 13 musicians, from Fats Domino to rapper Mystikal.

"Scratch the surface of any musician, and you'll find a Katrina story," Spera says.

Few were left unscathed by the flood, but "the average Jazz Fest visitor will be hard-pressed to find any evidence of the storm," he says. "The music culture is as healthy, if not more so, as it was before the storm."

He credits the resourcefulness of musicians, plus national promotional vehicles that grew out of the public's desire to follow the healing of New Orleans culture. Musicians were prominently spotlighted on the Grammy Awards and HBO's Treme series, now in its second season. Big pop and rock stars swooped in to collaborate with regional talent. A partnership with Elvis Costello on 2006's The River in Reverse "catapulted Allen Toussaint to a whole new level," Spera says. "It's not like Toussaint is going to outsell Lady Gaga anytime soon, but he's been touring more widely than at any time in his career."

A "rally around the flagpole" spirit also motivated musicians to tackle hardships and regain their footing.

"It was already a close-knit community with a lot of cross-pollination and not a lot of competition," he says.

And while jackpots in New Orleans' music realm are rare, the players have been adjusting to the absence of an industry infrastructure and adopting the do-it-yourself mantra of the digital age.

"So much of the music here falls under that 'roots' heading, and there's a limited market for those kinds of artists," Spera says. Fabled manager "Irving Azoff is not going to come down and manage the Soul Rebels Brass Band. Resiliency and hustle are as valuable as talent around here. People have had to struggle to find work and put out albums on their own. Now it's less necessary to have the industry here when the industry can be your laptop."

Come what may, Andrews won't abandon his hometown or drift from his musical roots.

"Unfortunately, this is a city that sits 25 feet below sea level," he says. "That's not what I dwell on. We're rocking 'n' rolling out here. This is my home. This is the air I breathe. I stopped today and got a catfish po' boy. I can sit on a riverbank by my house. The crawfish is good!"

For more information about reprints & permissions, visit our FAQ's. To report corrections and clarifications, contact Standards Editor Brent Jones. For publication consideration in the newspaper, send comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include name, phone number, city and state for verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We've updated the Conversation Guidelines. Changes include a brief review of the moderation process and an explanation on how to use the "Report Abuse" button. Read more.

Music of the royal marriage will be a reflection of the traditional flavours

When the Prince William and Kate Middleton down the aisle this Friday, they Tango you by the choir of Westminster Abbey and the choir of the Chapel Royal. The London Chamber Orchestra also will be on the spot, with a team of the band of the Royal Air Force band. JMEnternational, Redferns

Meet the maestro: Green Warren Christopher, who directs the orchestras of both sides of the Atlantic, is in charge of the music of the royal marriage.

JMEnternational, Redferns

Meet the maestro: Green Warren Christopher, who directs the orchestras of both sides of the Atlantic, is in charge of the music of the royal marriage.

Royal watchers and music fans can ask what hymns, choral works and newly commissioned pieces will be performed. Warren Christopher green, Music Director and conductor of the Orchestra of House of London, said that they need to just stay tuned. "" All I can tell you that the music will be extremely beautiful and appropriate, "Warren-Green explains the royal marriage. "Keep in mind that this will be a religious service, a very serious and happy." And music that was selected will depend on the opportunity.Having been "musically knowledge" with the father of the groom, Prince Charles, for 30 years, Warren-Green - also the Director of the Symphony Orchestra of Charlotte, North Carolina - helped to oversee a number of Royal events. He was involved in the marriage of Charles to Camilla Parker Bowles, and 60th Charles and Queen Elizabeth 80th anniversary celebrations II."Warren-Green confirms that the Prince of Wales" had a big helping hand "by choosing the musical menu for marriage of his son, but he adds that William and his future were hardly passive observers." "" William asked his father for help ", says Warren-green. "But the couple was very firm of what they wanted, and I was obviously keen to get it for them." I think that Catherine has also asked parents what they thought. "Musical criticism of veteran J.D. Considine, a contributor to the Globe and the delivery of the nation of the commonwealth of the Canada, provides that their decisions raise no eyebrows. "" The main thing people should not expect is surprises, "said Considine. "The royals and the father of William in particular, are culturally conservative, so the music should be very traditional and very English."Considine predicted that the entries can include the composer Hubert Parry Jerusalem, adapted from a poem by William Blake. "This is probably the most famous Anglican hymn and the glory of Great Britain.". John Rutter's choral composer before any Anglican of the contemporary era, so I guess it's been tasked to write something. In the same way John Tavener. And I would not be surprised if he does are not much old Anglican Music - Handel, William Byrd, Henry Purcell, things of that ilk. "Laura Trevelyan, BBC New York-based correspondent is particularly interested in the extent to which the choice will be mirror"to the marriage of the parents of William." Diana personally chose the anthem that I vow to Thee My Country, which has also been played at his funeral. William spoke of her mother, and he gave Kate her ring, therefore this hymn would have great resonance.Warren-Green would only say that the young couple were "very, very good taste"- and that he and his musicians are ready for their close-ups. "The fact that there will be 2 billion people watching is not really do what different for me,"said the conductor. "Any Royal occasion is very special, and music is just as important, everywhere where play you."And we have fabulous players - London s finest. "For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

Carrie steps off the coast of the bus, in "the summer and the city".

Sex and the City, an iconic guilty pleasure is updated and rejuvenated in exuberant fashion in the summer and the city, second young adult novel Candace Bushnell chronicling the adventures of the city of New York of a teenage girl Carrie Bradshaw. By Wendy Carlson

Candace Bushnell is back with a novel for young adults, Carrie Diaries which emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself.

By Wendy Carlson

Candace Bushnell is back with a novel for young adults, Carrie Diaries which emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself.

Last summer, The Carrie Diaries, first novel of Bushnell for teens and anyone who wants to feel like readers whisked one, back to the 1980s, and senior year of Carrie in a suburban high school in the Connecticut.Dans the last pages, Carrie prepares to spend the summer before college courses for writing in Manhattan.She steps from the bus to the port authority and pow! She gets attacked and stolen.Its lifeline: the cousin of her best friend from high school.This cousin, comes to the rescue of Carrie is nothing other than sexy Samantha Jones. In the summer and the city, the 17-year Carrie seeks advice of slightly older Samantha romance and work and falls in love with boys, men, parties, clothing and, especially, New York. She wanders in its shops, restaurants, bookstores and theatres clothing vintage.Days of Manhattan of Carrie of melodrama and mayhem are summarized on a visit to the Shubert Theatre as it stands on the stage where Katharine Hepburn played in the history of Philadelphia in 1939 .the ' wasand the city:
A novel by Carrie diaries
By Candace Bushnell
Balzer + Bray, 409 p.,. $18 99she lays in his arms and exclaimed: "Good morning, New York!" Scenes like this that make delicious and fabulously frantic novel.Carrie, like his old self, played by Sarah Jessica Parker in the HBO, true research series love (all first with an older man), success as a writer (she tries her hand a playwright) and true friendships (not everyone has your interests at heart) without putting at risk his pride or dignity.Samantha, who is in the middle of the 1920s, is also lessons on gender, labour and the importance of being true to yourself.And then there are young Miranda Hobbes, his hair dyed the same shades of red as Andy Warhol Soup cans, including Carrie responds from Saks, where Miranda to protest against pornography. She too, learned lessons on gender, feminism, and personal authenticity.If ever a book resonated with positive messages for young people, it is this one.All too soon, the summer in the city of Carrie is complete. It is moving toward its first year to Brown when she makes a decision that changes his life forever. And the young woman she met in the last pages of the book... can you guess who this is? His presence begs just for another novel.For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

"Law & Order" takes the firing of Giffords

The Law & Order franchise, known for his titles snatching approach to stories, is shooting an episode based on Rep. Gabrielle Giffords shooting. AFP/Getty Images

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D - Arizona, was wounded in the head during a January 8 shooting rampage that killed six people, including a federal judge and a nine year old girl.

AFP/Getty Images

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D - Arizona, was wounded in the head during a January 8 shooting rampage that killed six people, including a federal judge and a nine year old girl.

Law & Order: The, although based on the shooting near Tucson, where six people were killed and 13 others were injured, including the Democratic Party of Arizona is not an exact copy of the real-life tragedy, Weekly.According Entertainment in EW, a Senator of the State is among those slaughtered. But the description EW offer - "a female State Senator is shot dead in public" - makes it clear what inspired the episode.Is this too close to home, literally and figuratively? Too little time after the actual event?It is always a delicate balance. The show takes this approach to try to stay relevant and timely but also to the generic story that he defended as a replay. As anyone who has a television set knows, one of the many versions of law & order is re-run almost all the time.Word is that it is expected that the end of the season. NBC is emphasizing that it is a work of fiction, not do so.

Copyright 2011 the Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

Jodie Foster explains Mel Gibson is always loved

WASHINGTON - Mel Gibson has had several scandals ugly hit films in the past five years, but his long-time friend date that Jodie Foster still feels that it is "the most loved actor" in Hollywood. By Ken Regan, AP

Mel Gibson has had several scandals ugly that film hit in the past 5 years, but his longtime friend Jodie Foster still feels it is "the most loved actor" in Hollywood.

By Ken Regan, AP

Mel Gibson has had several scandals ugly that film hit in the past 5 years, but his longtime friend Jodie Foster still feels it is "the most loved actor" in Hollywood.

Foster blocked by Gibson when it has been reported making anti-Semitic and sexist insults in 2006 and she is still defending him now that he pleaded no contest after having been charged with battery joint tortfeasor for a fight he had with his girlfriend then. "I do not defend his behaviour,"it said in a recent interview. "I support the man I know." And I know that he is kind and loyal and that it is an amazing professional. It is probably the most beloved actor of someone that I have ever worked with in the film industry. "And I don't say that lightly."Foster, who on with Gibson in Maverick in 1994, considers strange that it is criticized for being faithful to him. "When someone is struggling, you run away from them, you love and you are close to them. "She explains the difference between Gibson and any other person who has experienced the pain is that Gibson disorders were made public. "As I said before, I don't mind seeing you in your underwear, but I am not interested to see your underwear against your will. Many errors that people make, that we have all done - which, incidentally, I do not think are as strange that people might think - are not usually played "on the news."Foster plays the wife of Gibson in the next film The Beaver, a film, she has also done. It is a depressed man who cannot speak of her family and co-workers through a beaver puppet he wears on his left hand.The film is serious, most of the time, but that has not prevented Gibson, a notorious fun fart.Gibson made a joke on Foster during a kissing scene that they filmed in the shower, the actress recalled, in which mocks Gibson tendency of Foster to burst if a guy did not shave before kissing.After locking lips with Foster, Gibson bent down while she could not see what he was doing and when it is lifted, Foster said the actor "the face is fragmented, totally red." She screamed, "What did I do for you?" Was it my skin? Then, Foster continues, "it starts going ' she is an animal!" Look what it did to my face! She is an animal! "All day. This is what I got all day.But this is no joke when Gibson ended with a bloody head the filming of a scene where he and the Beaver puppet getting in a fight. The scene called for Gibson to use puppetry to crush a lamp above his head, but Foster, said that the prop guy did not properly mark it. "" "He struck his head open and lots of blood came casting, the actress said, but he finished making" and it is used in the film. "Although most of the personal trauma of Gibson happened before to begin filming, he was in the midst of a custody battle with his girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva when he had to return to the whole filming his final scenes. However, Foster said that Gibson is a pro that day. "This is what we do for a living. It is the focus. But, there are lot of pain in his face and I am so grateful in some respects it is as deep a person he is. He lived many struggle in his young life as now. It provides all the depth of feeling for what he does on the screen and I am really grateful to what a deep person, it is. "Gibson showed a different side in a series of telephone calls with Grigorieva. Sexist and racist 55 Oscar-winner rants were disclosed to the website of celebrity that radaronline.com.Grigorieva also accused Gibson of hit in a fight at his Malibu home in January 2010.He was charged with battery joint tortfeasor. Under a plea agreement, Gibson was placed on probation for three years last month. He also said for domestic violence counselling for a year and to perform 16 hours of community service.In 2006, Gibson was arrested for drunk driving. MP on the celebrity website TMZ.com report revealed that Gibson used insulting sexist and anti-Semitic.None of this change would Foster of Gibson. "You can pretty much call anyone you like who really knows him and ask what they think of him", and she said that you would have a hard time finding any person having a bad word to say about him.Foster, said he is "such a good person."Beaver opens in some cities may 6 and wider may 20.

Copyright 2011 the Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

"Dancing" recap: Shake, baby

Ann Oldenburg is on assignment in London.

Advertiser's Dancing With the Stars pretty much summarized it in the first minute of the show: the guiltiest pleasure is ballroom dancing. And in case this was not a big enough clue to theme of Monday, a giant pink "guilty pleasures" sign hung on the bandstand.

Romeo , brings us back to the day, it becomes Romeo: the day he saw Titanic as a child of 8 years. Unsurprisingly, he selected My Heart Will Go On for Celine Dion his Waltz with Chelsie Hightower. The two have been equipped in adorning of Jack and Rose. Carrie Ann: "every once in a while in a season, magic happens." It was magical. You get emotionally connected to dance that I must completely transported. " Note: 28 (the highest score for anyone this season).

Chelsea kane could not quite get on board with the competitive fire of Mark Ballas. He did not like his answers "can we all agree?", therefore, he tested his competitive will with a water fight. He seems to have worked: it proclaims, "romeo?" Jericho? Don't mess with the kid from Disney because I am not as sweet that I expect. "Adapted both in gear nerd for their quickstep to Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the waves. "You recovered kindly of the rehearsal injury", Tom said Mark, which his ankle and had been icing it since. Len: "you reach high energy with control merge." This is not easy to do something. "Carrie Ann:"sometimes magic comes twice!" " Note: 28 (tying with Romeo)

hines ward and Kym Johnson were affected the Viennese Waltz this week, and their song was end of Boyz II Men from the road, which prompted the winner of the Super Bowl to admit he wanted to be in this band. "At any time this song comes, I sing in the shower until I can't sing it more." Hines also said he had been practicing at home, football-style of drawing parts and "alternate Kym with a pillow." The pair dressed in pink began and ended their waltz in a swing of the Chair. Bruno: "as a performer, it was pure pleasure from beginning to end." Chemistry you have with Kym - it is truly impeccable. You are made for each other, like two love birds. "Carrie Ann asked if Hines was thought too rather than feel the dance. Note: 27

Kirstie Alley and Maksim Chmerkovskiy were the first couple of the night, trim out in bronze, dancing a samba of Britney Spears (Hit Me Baby) One More Time. There were tail shaking. And there were chest shaking, which might have an involuntary anniversary this chest fruit obsessed with Len Goodman, which led to the coast of the judgment. "This season has a summer a misadventure," he then contour. "a week, you collapse..." "". Then your shoe fell off and really, you neverfulfilled the potential I've seen in a week... until today. He was rhythmic, great, great choreography technical... Up my alley. "Bruno:"your bum sent shock waves across earthquake!" "Carrie Ann:"you're back." " Note: 26 (their highest score so far)

kendra wilkinson followed from Chris Jericho when it comes to be honest. Partner when Louis Amstel van shake the everything that God gives him in their samba, she noted, "my breasts are not what God gave me." The two chosen Livin ' La Vida Loca of Ricky Martin and trimmed themselves out in yellow. Not only Kendra tight everything that God and the plastic surgeon gave him, but it did on the judges table. Tom Bergeron noted that "for the anniversary (the Len), you almost gave him a heart attack." Bruno: "ladies and gentlemen, the dynamic Web templates this revenge of the stripper, Act 1: attack of the Killer nichons." Tom then took the liberty of showing his own guilty pleasure: the video for Elton John I still standing, featuring a little dressed, oscillating Bruno Tonioli. (See for yourself) Note: 25

Ralph macchio was eager to climb out of the bottom of the leader board. Karina Smirnoff decided to abandon certain movements of Karate Kid in their paso doble, made for everybody dance now C & C Music Factory. The dance is descended to a difficult start when he missed a catch and Karina fell. But they recover well, and you need to give Macchio accessories almost 50 years to slide across the floor on his knees. Carrie Ann: "Ralph-san, Mr. Miyagi is very proud of you to get right back up." The pair then stiffened, expect harsh words of Len, who instead congratulated Ralph: "you identified Karina, immediately obtained his back on his feet and did not mess." You have right of return in the dance. You had fire and passion. I am proud of you. Note: 24

Chris jericho came to the right and corrected partner Cheryl Burke, when it announced that their song guilty pleasure would be Don't Stop Believine of travel. "It's a guilty pleasure for the most part." I love this song. The pair leathered for tango. Bruno: "it was cold, without incident and awkward." Carrie Ann: "you're not having fun this week." It was technically valid, it was tight, it was clean. But this is not exciting. This was not passionate. He was tango! This is Don't Stop Believine! You are supposed to live up to the hype and I do not feel like you have done that this week. Supplié Len differ: "you stand, you had good posture." Your feet set was good. It lacked a little intensity. Overall, I thought that you have done an excellent job. " Note: 22

See pictures of: Dancing with the Stars

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"Poetry Man" Phoebe Snow, singer dies at 58

NEW YORK - Phoebe Snow, bluesy singer, guitarist and composer who had a decisive success in the 1970s with the man of poetry, but fell in much of the spotlight to take care of her disabled daughter, died. By Robert Raphael, AP

Phoebe Snow developed his musical career on the pilot who died in 2007 to focus on caring for her daughter of brain lesions.

By Robert Raphael, AP

Phoebe Snow developed his musical career on the pilot who died in 2007 to focus on caring for her daughter of brain lesions.

Snow, who was named best new artist at the Grammys 1975, died Tuesday morning in Edison, New Jersey, following a cerebral hemorrhage suffered in January 2010, said Rick Miramontez, his longtime friend and a representative of public relations. She was the Manager, Sue Cameron 58.Snow, said enduré singer ends of blood clots, pneumonia and congestive heart failure since his stroke. "This unique and untouchable voice loss is incalculable, said Cameron. "Phoebe was one of the brightest, funniest and most talented songwriters or composers of all time and, especially, a magnificent mother to her daughter end of brain lesions, Valerie, for 31 years." Phoebe felt was his greatest achievement. "Known as a folk guitarist who made incursion into the jazz and blues, put snow its stamp on the soul classics as the earth quakes, Love makes a woman and mercy, Mercy Mercy on half a dozen albums.Shortly after the poetry Man snow reached the Top 5 pop singles in 1975, his daughter, Valerie Rose, was born with serious brain damage, and Snow decided to take care of him at home rather than placed in an institution."It was the only thing that held me together", she told the San Francisco Chronicle in 2008. "My life was, completely on it, the moment that I woke up to the time that I went to bed at night."Valerie, who was born with hydrocephalus, an accumulation of fluid in the cavity of the brain that inhibits the development of the brain, was not expected to live more than a few years. She died in 2007 at the age of 31 years, snow found time to sing on the song by Paul Simon on the last and tour Gone with him, as well as to the Woodstock festival 25th anniversary in 1994in an act of the soul which included Thelma HoustonMavis Staples and CeCe Peniston.Snow also recruited by Donald Fagen of Steely Dan to participate in the New York Rock and Soul Revue, which takes him, Charles Brown, Michael McDonald, Boz Scaggs and other touring and New York Beacon Theatre for an exuberant live album in 1991. "Sometimes I put an album, but I didn't not on tour, and they do not have a lot of support from the label,"she told the Chronicle." But do you know what? This is not really important because I have to stay home more with Valerie and the time was valuable. "She was born Phoebe Ann Laub of white Jewish parents in New York in 1952 and grew up in Teaneck, New Jersey although many assumed that she was black, snow never alleged African American ancestry.It changed its name after seeing Phoebe Snow, a character advertising for a railway, affixed on trains passing through his hometown. Snow left College after two years of performing in amateur nights in folk clubs of Greenwich Village.Son first record, Phoebe Snow, released in 1974 and showed off the coast of its chops songwriting on a selection of tunes spanning bluesjazz and folk. Hit-bound poetry man took the file No. 4 on the album charts, but its success was uncomfortable. "There are turning points in life where you decide if you're going to sink or swim. My insecurity did not use much at all. It was really a stone of stumbling, she told the Associated Press 1989.Rumors abounded that Jackson Browne a Man. poetry, no.. Is someone you know. People just thought poetry Man was Browne because he was the first Act, I have toured with, "Snow told USA today in childhood 1989.After 1976 second selling gold, following albums Snow has found more small audiences." In the 1980s and 1990s, snow sang commercial jingles - for businesses, including Michelob, Hallmark, and AT & T - and performed live here and there.Inexperienced in the music industry, she has broken a number of contracts with record companies and others and herself in a number of prosecution and serious financial problems. Snow husband, musician Phil Kearns, left while Valerie was still a baby.She sang the theme for NBC A Different World and the jingle celebrate the Moments of Your Life for General Foods International coffees. She sang also to radio host Howard Stern to Beth Ostrosky marriage in 2008 and for President Bill Clinton, who asked her to perform at Camp David during his presidency.In 2003, she released the CD wonder of nature, his first original new hardware album in 14 years. His other albums include something real in 1989 and Rock Away from 1981. In 2008, she released a live album entitled Live and CD best-of in 2001.

Copyright 2011 the Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Piece of cake? Not if it is for the royal wedding

The British and Americans have long joked about the differences in their "common" language, but now the royal marriage has highlighted another gap: fruit cake, as the Brits usually say or bûche as yanks usually spell it. They are not the same kind of cake. Pool WPA, Getty Images

Fiona Cairns cake designer is to create a fruit cake traditional multilevel to serve more than 600 guests at the marriage royal Friday.

WPA Pool, Getty Images

Fiona Cairns cake designer is to create a fruit cake traditional multilevel to serve more than 600 guests at the marriage royal Friday.

In addition, the groom cake is this that the English call a "biscuit cake", the Americans knew better as a "cookie cake."Bride of Prince William, Catherine "Kate" Middleton, chose English fruit Cake classic multi-level for her wedding cake, to be displayed and served by the couple at the reception of Buckingham Palace after their marriage that chose Friday at Westminster Abbey.Middleton famous British Baker Fiona Cairnscakemaker Bono and Paul McCartney, to create the cake, which will have the cream and white frosting decorated with a floral theme British, using a traditional technique of complex piping to create spirals in 3D, leaves and flowers.Although already famous and successful, Cairns says that it was disbelief, delighted and honored when it was taken over in February - and also a little impressed with the idea of producing such a mixture of high-profile under extreme pressure in only eight weeks. "But Middleton, who had tasted creations Cairns' other marriages, has come to the meeting with a clear vision of what she wanted.""It very well is the inspiration behind the cake," said Cairns. "It we gave his ideas and images, called the list of flowers." She is responsible for and has been we guide. It is very practical, and it is. "Cairns, 54, whose company cooked cakes about 120 000 per year at its plant in the Midlands, approximately 100 km north of London, says a fruit cake is very moist, full of roasted nuts, raisins, currantsgrated, oranges, lemons and spices, important heighten logged brandy. "" This is a very traditional English wedding cake - in fact, until recently, it was the only choice for many years, "said Cairns, author of Bake & decorate: charming cakes, cakes & Cookies for every Occasion. "It is absolutely delicious - it tastes incredible."She cannot speak too much on the Royal details - the number of levels, for example - but it described as delicate, modern, but with vintage aspects. She said that it will be large enough to feed more than 600 guests to come to the reception at the Palace hosted by the grandmother of William, the Queen Elizabeth II.It is quite a sizable cake, "she said." "It takes a team of eight of us weeks (to prepare), and we will be right decoration until the day we finished at the Palace of Buckingham.". Just keeping up with the intense media interest interview requests made long days since it has been selected.Cake Kate is not something like what Americans know as log - these dense, heavy, hard, cakes topped with preserved fruit, piled in the round cake boxes and mailed as gifts at Christmas. Generally they have not been soaking in brandy and they have no frosting. Although they were part of the American scene since the beginning of the 20th century, in recent decades log has become something of a joke.Still, even in traditionalist Britain, changes in trends of cake are underway, through the influence of America, Cairns said. "Until there is at least 10 years, fruit cake was cake traditional choice, even if we have cakes often prioritised in different flavors, of different textures, colors," she said. "But now cupcakes and fairy cakes, which are smaller versions of small cakes, is a huge trend in Britain, and that's it (through the influence of) Magnolia Bakery in New York.".The cake will be in its plant, and then transported to the Palace of the detailed decoration. "We are very used to transport cakes," said Cairns. "But it is obviously worrying - we will drive very carefully."After the last flourish flower is deposited on the cake, she will return to his hotel "collapse" and watch the marriage on television.What is the effect its connection to the royal marriage will have on its business successfully? "I can't think out of wedlock", she says with a sigh. "But there was so much interest, I think that it will have an impact."For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

Deposits "Rio" at the top of the ticket of the new

The Easter holidays has delivered a bounty to cartoons as Rio held first place for a second weekend of law. Blue Sky Studios / 20th Century Fox

The villainous cockatoo Nigel tells her story in song (and 3 - d) comedy Rio.

Blue Sky Studios / 20th Century Fox

The villainous cockatoo Nigel tells her story in song (and 3 - d) comedy Rio.

3D comedy took $ 26.8 million, according to estimates from the studio of the Hollywood.com box-office tracking firm. The film has generated 81.3 million in 10 days, almost to recover its budget of $ 90 million. Film received a release in a timely manner as children of school age on break for Friday gave the cartoon a surge.The course was enough to repel a sweep of the new arrivals, including later Tyler Perry, large family of Madea United, who took the second with $ 25.8 million.Although some analysts should Madea to take top place with a higher opening, the debut will mark another cost-effective project for the Perry based in Atlanta, which retains its costs of production below $ 20 million, making him one of most viable filmmakers in the industry.Perry has never been as popular with film critics, though. Two-thirds gave the film a negative review, according to film review site RottenTomatoes.com.Robert Pattinson water for elephants drama scored better with critics, 51% of them gave the film a thumb-up. The film was third with $ 17.5 million, landing in its modest projections.Caricature of Easter Hop received a boost of the feast, kept in the top five one right fourth weekend. Hop won $ 12.5 million, which lifted its total gross to $ 100.5 million.Horror/comedy from Wes Craven Scream 4 was in fifth place with $ 7.2 million, followed by the documentary of Disney cats African, who was sixth with $ 6.4 million, meeting expectations of most analysts.Final figures are due today.For more information on reprints & permissions, see our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

Citizens will report for royal wedding

Six today USA intrepid readers share their experiences in London this week for the royal wedding. Let's meet their: by Dean Mouhtaropoulos, Getty Images

Tower Bridge: Pals Scalzitti and Bergeman, a visit to the historic structure is on the list of tasks.

By Dean Mouhtaropoulos, Getty Images

Tower Bridge: Pals Scalzitti and Bergeman, a visit to the historic structure is on the list of tasks.

Daniel whaley, 19Occupation: Studenthometown: administration of affairs at the University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, ManitobaWhaley attended the Canada. His interest in the royal couple arises from his work with the monarchist League of Canada, where he was assigned once an essay on the Canadian monarchy and the British shared. Whaley, said he looks forward to watching Britain "(and the Canada!)" future King and Queen down the aisle.Route includes: University of Cambridge, seeing a musical and taking a tour of London walking tour.Jan risher, 47Occupation: Freelancehometown: Lafayette, La.When Risher was 8, his grandmother would tell tales on Queen Elizabeth and the Royal heirs and the ancestors. Risher says she has read everything it can about the Windsors and Wales and has reserved a mother-daughter trip to London to admire the "royal show." Risher and his plan of daughter of 13 years old to camp out on the road to procession before marriage and watch the festivities on a large screen in Hyde Park, close to Buckingham Palace.Route includes: A royal London bike tour and visits to the Tate Modern and Stonehenge.Becky druml, 53Occupation: Owner, investment Andralinehometown: Brookfield, Wis.Druml, an admitted royal fan, subscribes to monthly fee and Majesty magazinesand has two dogs named Camilla Parker Bowles and Prince Charles. It intends to remain with his sister in a village south of London and to take along the route of the parade, ready to wave to the royal couple. After the ceremony, she and her sister will celebrate a feast of street at Ewell, Surrey. Friends just can't get on my fascination for the Royal family, "she said." "I like to say that this is my version of fantasy football."Route includes: Explore the town of Epsom, visiting the Design Museum, the White Cliffs of Dover flight in a private plane.Julie hetherington, 49Occupation: Top Director of sales, Mary Kay Cosmeticshometown: San DiegoHetherington and her 17-year-old daughter, Emily, and best friend, Jane Giannoulas, say they have "Kate fever" and make the trip to London to attend the wedding of the century. "Our understanding and my son, Jordan, husbands believe all that we have lost our minds and just be at home, comfortably watching sports," she said.Route includes: Shopping at Harrods, a Thames River cruise, at the Ritz afternoon tea and a projection of Mamma Mia!.Laura scalzitti, 29, Michele Voss Bergeman, 27Professions: Store Manager. The service learning Coordinator70: Bonaire, GA and Peyton, Colo.Scalzitti and Bergeman are self-proclaimed "nerds history", which met in 2006 while he was working as tourist guides, on the battleship Missouri at Pearl Harbor Hawaii. Their love for the story naturally perpetuates a love for travel, and they still dream of a trip abroad. Friends are together for their first epic adventure overseas and will be scouring the streets of London to find the perfect souvenir and perhaps a little something to their husbands.Route includes: Visit the Churchill war rooms, hitting the Globe Theatre to demonstrate the existence of Hamlet and the exploration of the Tower Bridge.For more information on reprints & permissions, visit our FAQ. To report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. Review of the publication in the journal, please send your comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include the name, telephone number, city and State for the purposes of verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.We have updated the guidelines of Conversation. Changes include a brief review of moderation and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". To learn more.

"The voice" coaches have their reasons.

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Christina Aguilera never aspired to be in your living room.

By Matthew Rolston, NBC

Pop singer Christina Aguilera says she knows what it's like to be a contestant: She was on Star Search as a child.

By Matthew Rolston, NBC

Pop singer Christina Aguilera says she knows what it's like to be a contestant: She was on Star Search as a child.

Though she appeared on the All New Mickey Mouse Club as a child, she has been focused on music since then.

"I don't watch a lot of (television). I can't even say that I've actually seen a full episode of the other musical shows that are out there such as American Idol," she says.

Still, the diminutive singer with the supersized pipes is one of four musicians headlining NBC's The Voice, one of this season's most heavily promoted vocal competitions. The show, which premieres Tuesday (9 p.m. ET/PT), stars Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Maroon 5's Adam Levine and Blake Shelton as tunesmiths who work with contestants to bring out their inner, well, Aguileras and Greens.

"We know what it's like to get up on that stage. I was even a contestant on Star Search years ago (as a child). For me, I know what it's like to be them," Aguilera says. "One of the reasons I was hesitant about doing a show like this was because I wanted to make sure I was a part of something very positive and not negative just for television's sake. I wanted to bring positivity and a really honest perspective."

She and her fellow celebrity coaches are entering a packed programming playlist, in which singing contests are as prolific as the wannabe crooners who audition for them. There's the revamped American Idol, the stalwart hit that now features the musical guidance of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. American Idol's acid-tongued former critic Simon Cowell is bringing his much-hyped show The X Factor to Fox, already home to Idol, this fall and has booked Mariah Carey as one of the judges. CMT's Next Superstar, executive-produced by Idol's Nigel Lythgoe, focuses on country performers. And Bravo's Platinum Hit, starring former Idol umpire Kara DioGuardi and singer Jewel, premieres May 30.

But harmonious stylings aside, The Voice, says executive producer Mark Burnett, has as much in common with Idol as William Hung has with Kelly Clarkson. His series isn't about showcasing the hopeless or humorous.

"Idol has great comedy in the early rounds when they find the bad singers. I was clear that we're not doing that," Burnett says. "There won't be any criticizing of the poor people up there. It's a singing contest, but it's very fresh. It doesn't seem like a copy."

Will viewers take note? It could go either way, says Andy Dehnart, editor of RealityBlurred.com.

"The public's appetite for these kinds of competition shows is pretty high, but at the same time, it's been proven over the years that copycats don't work. Shows that clone American Idol don't work," he says. "But The Voice has a different kind of formula and has some big talent associated with it, so I'd be surprised if people didn't tune in at first to see what it's like."

Christina Aguilera

The singer has been through a turbulent year. Her 2010 album, Bionic, underwhelmed, as did her movie debut, Burlesque. She flubbed the national anthem during a Super Bowl performance and fell on stage at the Grammys. And she separated from her husband, Jordan Bratman.

"The last year has probably, with the divorce and considering everything that's gone on, has humbled me a little bit," she says with a laugh.

Aguilera says The Voice represents a new beginning for her in every sense. The concept of the show intrigued her and took her back to why she started singing. "Being in this business for quite a few years now, sometimes you do take things for granted. I've had my ups and I've had my downs. You have to take the good with the bad in this business. It gets me back to the root of why I got into this business, and that's real, raw talent," says Aguilera, 30.

The show films in Los Angeles and has allowed Aguilera to stay near her son, Max, 3, and record her new album. The next release, Aguilera says, will focus on her personal evolution.

"For this one, I really want to make a real rooted, heartfelt record. After someone goes through the things that I have, regarding a divorce, there's a lot of emotions that are stirred," she says.

Aguilera, whose towering talent has never been questioned, says she keeps right on going, even when things get tough.

"I prove to myself that I'm stronger than just to let things take over me, and take over my head space," Aguilera says. "I'm very honest with myself in seeing if there are things that I need to change about my life, or if there are things I need to do stepping forward.

"That's in part why I got the divorce. It's a new beginning for me. It's all positivity for me. I've been through some hard things, but I'm on the up and up. "

The advice she would most want to impart to the contestants she's coaching on her team? To always follow your gut and focus on why you're making music. It's not about the freebies or the fame.

"There's so much in the media and in the press, opportunities to get swayed. That's why I stay so far away from reading anything about myself.

"I love to sing. It's what moves me and inspires me. To be able to do that is a gift."

Maroon 5's Adam Levine

By Matthew Rolston, NBC

Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine says that if "things don't get stupid, it will be a really classy show."

The charismatic lead vocalist of the Los Angeles-based rock group was leery of venturing into reality television, given the genre's less-than-prestigious connotations.

"I was extremely wary. It's not something I would necessarily endorse. Clearly there was money involved, and there's a lot at stake. It's a risk in some ways because you don't know what you're getting yourself into," says Levine, 32.

He says he's in it for the right reasons, and he promises viewers a worthwhile experience. "We're doing this because we want these people to succeed based on their talent and our ability to help them. If that remains and things don't get stupid, it will be a really classy show."

Plus, the singer says, "this is a good opportunity to show that I have a brain and a personality."

And while he and his fellow coaches know when something works, or doesn't, there's no recipe for cooking up a superstar. It's a question of being in the right place at the right time. Of pairing the right song with the right person.

"Life is so circumstantial. You need to see something in the right way. If someone had a cold, just got into argument and was nervous — there are so many variables. The stars need to align for that person in that moment. It has nothing to do with technical ability. It's about a moment being captured," he says.

The lesson he'd impart on his pupils is as straightforward as Levine is himself. It's something he learned from another songwriter, whom he won't name, years ago: "Don't sell your publishing. When you're broke and someone waves money in your face, it's easy to say yes. If you believe in what you're doing — you should wait. As shallow as that sounds, it has a lot of depth. "

Cee Lo Green

By Matthew Rolston, NBC

Cee Lo Green says he'll be tough, professional and persistent.

The idiosyncratic performer, 36, whose hit F ——— You was ubiquitous last year, says his TV endeavor is a way to build "a résumé and reference sheet in a diverse career."

He's no catty Cowell when it comes to his team.

"I'm tough. I'm professional. I'm persistent. I'm consistent with being passionate, with constructive criticism and with care. I do care. We have built a bond between us in a very short amount of time. It's a special moment. I would never be tough and nasty with someone I care about. I'll be honest."

Green tends to talk in circles and give circuitous answers to questions. His own mentors throughout his career?

"I had a few. I'm inspired by everything and everyone. There's validity in all expression. Luck is alive. It knows whether or not you appreciate it or not. I had many surrogate fathers. I have a father in James Brown, in Al Green. I have a brother in Billy Joel. We are family. We are a community. I am Destiny's Child."

One person he does consider a friend is Gwyneth Paltrow, who performed the sanitized version of Green's hit (Forget You) on Glee.

He says the actress is a "great" singer and an equally good person. "I hear she's about to record an actual album. If she needs my help, all she has to do is call. She's a very cool girl. Very cool," Green says.

Green was previously best-known as one-half of the duo Gnarls Barkley. He has learned the ropes, so what advice would he share with up-and-comers?

"The more you come to the table with, the less you have to ask for. And at all costs, be yourself."

Blake Shelton

By Matthew Rolston, NBC

Country singer Blake Shelton says he is looking forward to an opportunity to encourage others.

The country singer, 34, doesn't edit himself when asked about his decision to appear on a network music competition. He just wasn't that into it.

"I was turned off a little by Idol and X Factor. There's judges sitting there, and America rips on" competitors, Shelton says. "I realized (The Voice is) a show where we actually have the opportunity to help and encourage and not just be mean and make fun of somebody."

His own style is matter-of-fact and encouraging, but also candid. He's not out to alter anyone's personality, or destroy their dreams of being the next Carrie Underwood.

"I want America to hear the best vocalists out there who maybe are a little bit bashful. I want them to be heard because they're great. If I'm offering someone some advice and taking the time to do it, they can either take it or leave it," Shelton says. "I don't want anyone to say I didn't try and do my part."

Shelton himself has relied on country legend Reba McEntire for guidance. He admires adaptability.

"She's constantly reinventing herself. She keeps it interesting for her and her fans, and she stays true to what she wants to do," he says. "In country, we buddy up with somebody. You're inside each other's lives a little bit, and you see how people handle situations."

Another inspiration: his betrothed, fellow country star Miranda Lambert.

As for their upcoming wedding, they've agreed on the entertainment: country singer Neal McCoy.

"Whatever genre you listen to, there's no way you can go to a Neal McCoy concert and not be entertained," Shelton says.

The best guidance he has received came from Richie McDonald, one-half of the country duo Lonestar. "I'd been doing this for about eight months, and I'd had a big hit, and I was living it up. He pulled me aside and told me: 'Slow down, sleep at night, wake up and enjoy this. Don't let it be a blur to you when you look back,' " Shelton says. "That was great advice. I didn't take it. But he was exactly right."

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