News …

Looks as if we’re getting closer to that Phil Spector retrial as prosecutors oppose defense team’s efforts to exclude forensics testimony from first trial – Associated Press

Connie Francis rushed to hospital right before performance – Newsday

Lollapalooza promoters look ahead to the 2016 Olympics – The Chicago Tribune / Turn It Up

Music biz analyst says record labels must boost incentives if they want to compete with illegal downloading – The Scotsman

Lil’ Wayne sued for allegedly infringing on Stones tune – Reuters

Chris Cagle found not guilty of domestic violence after girlfriend refuses to testify against the country artist – Associated Press

Former Smashing Pumpkins members sue Virgin over downloads – Reuters

Views …

Judas Priest in Vancouver – “From the precision twin lead guitars to the pulsing, throbbing HEAVY rhythm section, the Priest was in fine form.” – The Province

The Ting Tings in Philly – ” … put on a short, sharp and electrifying set that put the lie to the post-modern self-deprecation implicit in the title of the band’s debut album, We Started Nothing.” – The Philadelphia Inquirer

Moby in Manchester – “It was a more stripped down performance, but it was still full of energy and charisma.” – Manchester Confidential

The B-52’s in London – ” … fabulously well-drilled vocal interplay between Schneider, ginger Pierson and blonde Wilson; soaring, life-enhancing melodies to foil suggestions of novelty; and former drummer Strickland’s garage guitar, which added new wave edge.” – The Evening Standard U.K.

Neil Diamond in Sioux City – ” … proved Thursday night that a diamond can last forever …” Sioux City Journal

“American Idols Live” in Detroit – “It was a big old mutual love fest at the Joe Louis Arena Thursday night as the Top 10 ‘American Idol’ finishers from the season that wrapped up in May brought their thank-you tour to Detroit, performing before thousands of screaming fans.” – Detroit Free Press

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

Verdine White (Earth, Wind & Fire) is 57

Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth) is 50

Marty Brown is 43