News …

Harry Connick Jr. runs afoul of Chinese officials over setlist – Associated Press

ZapMedia launches patent lawsuit against Apple over iPod and iTunes – The Associated Press

30th annual “Worst Irish Tenor” competition does not disappoint – Pioneer Press

Spoon is the big winner at Austin Music Awards – Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Huh? R.E.M.’s new album qualifies as “Irish Music?” Faith and Begorrah! – Hot Press.com

Q&A with Natalie Cole – Santa Barbara Independent

Views …

Van Morrison at SxSW – “… played a set that was puzzling at times, transcendent at others, but never predictable. In other words, it was classic Van the Man.” – The Dallas Morning News

Avril Lavigne in British Columbia – “The pop-punk princess dominated the stage with confidence, a few good ‘I get what I want’ songs and some amazing talent behind her.” – Prince George Citizen

Jill Scott in DC – “Miss Scott is a dynamo, an entertainer of the highest level who doesn’t need to rely on showy sets, costume changes or back-up dancers to keep her audiences rapt.” – The Washington Times

Sheryl Crow in Los Angeles – “‘This is a nice little place,’ Sheryl Crow said Tuesday from the stage of the El Rey. ‘The last time I played here I turned 40. I’m living backwards: Now I’m 36.'” – Los Angeles Times / CalendarLive (registration may be required)

Hawksley Workman in Newfoundland ” …it was unpredictable what kind of show he and his band would offer up. It turned out to be a rock ‘n’ roll, melodramatic, variety show of sorts.” – The Telegram

Jose Gonzalez in New York – “On Tuesday night at the Highline Ballroom you could almost get inside José González’s guitar, and it was loud in there.” – The New York Times (registration may be required)

They Say It’s Their Birthday … (Or so says Associated Press)

Jan Howard is 78.

Mike Stoller is 75

Neil Sedaka is 69

Adam Clayton (U2) is 48

Terence Blanchard is 46

Common is 36

Khujo (Goodie Mob) is 36

Glenn Lewis is 33