Music News: 'Purple Rain' concert film and documentary reportedly sparks bidding war
by Jay Gabler
May 04, 2017
Sources tell Billboard that streaming services are competing for exclusive rights to stream a film of Prince’s historic Aug. 3, 1983 performance at First Avenue. The concert, a benefit for Minnesota Dance Theatre, was the source of the basic tracks for three songs on the Purple Rain album — including the title track, which Prince played publicly for the very first time at that show. In addition to the concert film, the winning service will reportedly get the rights to make a documentary about the show using additional footage.
The concert film was originally expected to be part of next month's Purple Rain deluxe reissue, but that package will now include only one concert film: a Syracuse show from 1985.
Do you get royalties for that?
Steam’s 1969 classic "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye" was sung in the U.S. Capitol on Thursday — by a chorus of Democratic representatives, after Republicans passed a bill that would repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. (Billboard)
The Democrats' implication was that Republican representatives would face voter backlash for passing a bill that's disfavored by 83% of Americans. Whether or not they're right, the vote earned censure from musicians including John Legend, Katy Perry, and Black Thought (The Roots). (Billboard)
You Oughta Know (that if you embezzle Alanis Morissette's money you'll go to jail)
Business manager Jonathan Todd Schwartz has been sentenced to six years in prison and $8.6 million in restitution fees after being convicted of embezzling $4.8 million from his former client Alanis Morissette, in addition to stealing $2 million from other clients. "He did this in a long, systematic, drawn-out and sinister manner," said the Canadian hitmaker in court. Schwartz has apologized, citing a gambling addiction. (New York Times)
Adele makes bank, but not as much as a lot of old guys do
Adele seems to be having better luck protecting her wealth, as she's now the U.K.'s wealthiest female musician — with a net worth of p125 million ($161 million). That only ties her for number 19 on a list of the U.K.'s wealthiest music millionaires, though: she's behind 18 dudes including Ozzy Osbourne, Tom Jones, "Lord of the Dance" Michael Flatley, three Rolling Stones, and two Beatles. On top of the heap is Sir Paul McCartney, with p780 million (just over $1 billion) in the bank. (Billboard)
Kris Kristofferson returns to the silver screen
Kris Kristofferson, 80, is continuing his long-running acting career with a role alongside fellow country star Trace Adkins in the upcoming film HickockLuke Hemsworth in the role of Wild Bill Hickock. A new trailer is out now, and the film hits theaters on July 7. (Rolling Stone)