News …

U2 manager Paul McGuinness injured falling from horse – U2France.com

Sony looks at its photo archive as hedge against hard times – The New York Times (registration may be required)

Chris DeBurgh visits Iran. Says his plan to hold concerts in the country are not political. – Reuters

Rod Stewart’s concert rider calls for 48 footballs, three limousines, a hotel presidential suite and oxygen – The Mirror U.K.

Objecting to the band playing in Sarnia, Ontario, a local politican describes Motley Crue’s offstage adventures as “pornographic.” Nikki Sixx agrees – The Sarnia Observer

No matter if you call them Yazoo (UK) or Yaz (USA), band members say their reunion isn’t for the money – Manchester Evening News U.K.

Views …

The Police at the Hollywood Bowl – “A shame to think we may never hear anything more from them, especially now, as they go out peaking. They’ll be missed – again.” The Orange County Register

Taj Mahal and The Blind Boys Of Alabama in Victoria, British Columbia – “It might be that the Blind Boys, who opened the evening, spurred Taj Mahal to the heights he reached.” – Victoria Times Colonist

Stanton Moore Trio in the Mile-High City – ” … 100 believers are grinning and swaying, their hands in the air, as if to keep the immensity of the sound pouring off the stage from crushing them.” The Denver Post

Flight Of The Conchords in San Francisco – “…throughout the night, people of all genders and ages proved that you don’t have to be a teenage girl to squeal like one.” – San Francisco Chronicle

Beirut in San Francisco – ” … Succeeded at Unique Musicianship, Diverse Choices and Being Really Sexy” – The Daily Californian

Le Mystere Des Voix Bulgares in Seattle – “Throughout the night they investigated the myriad regional sounds of Bulgaria and hints of gospel, barbershop, pop and jazz vocals.” – Seattle Post Intelligencer

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

Gary Brooker (Procol Harum) is 63

Rebbie Jackson is 58

Danny Elfman is 55

Michael Porcaro (Toto) is 53

LaToya Jackson is 52

Melissa Etheridge is 47

Jayski McGowan (Quad City DJ’s) is 41

Noel Gallagher (Oasis) is 41

Chan Kinchla (Blues Traveler) is 39

Mark Lee (Third Day) is 35

Melanie Brown (“Scary Spice” of Spice Girls) is 33

Playa Poncho is 33