Hip-hop icon calls for trust in Mideast
To hip-hop and fashion mogul Russell Simmons, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is like “a rap beef” that can be resolved through dialogue and understanding. “A little trust, and it’s over,” he said.
The co-founder of the pioneering Def Jam Recordings record label, which has represented such artists like the Beastie Boys, Jay-Z, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, LL Cool J and Kanye West, is in Israel on the invitation of Israeli President Shimon Peres.
When he isn’t managing his clothing line Phat Farm or promoting artists, Simmons champions an eclectic mix of causes, from veganism to gay rights to yoga.
In Israel, he’s focusing on interfaith trust. He said creating dialogue should be as simple as mediating a rap battle, were it not for the political deadlock between Palestinians and Israelis.
Muslims and Jews “have the same aspirations and goals that are much greater than the things they call differences,” Simmons said.
Radiohead postpones tour
Radiohead has postponed part of its European tour after a stage collapse in Toronto killed the band’s drum technician.
A statement posted on the British band’s website Thursday says they are dealing with grief from the accident and practical considerations that have forced them to postpone shows in Italy, Germany and Switzerland scheduled through July 9. The band said the collapse destroyed its light show, which will take weeks to replace
Scott Johnson was killed Saturday when the stage came crashing down as the crew set up for a concert in Toronto’s Downsview Park. Three other crew members were injured. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation.
Sonny Rollins grabs three Jazz Awards
Tenor sax legend Sonny Rollins was a triple winner Wednesday at the annual Jazz Awards, garnering musician of the year honors for the second straight year. Rollins also repeated as the top tenor saxophonist.
His latest CD, “Road Shows, Vol. 2,” consisting of live recordings from concerts in Japan and his September 2010 80th birthday concert in New York highlighted by a first public performance with free jazz visionary and alto saxophonist Ornette Coleman, was chosen the year’s best jazz recording.
“I was born with some talent for which I am grateful,” Rollins said in a statement. “I copied and learned from my predecessors and I’m grateful to them, and I gratefully accept this award.”
The birthday bunch
Actor Ralph Waite is 84. Singer-actor Kris Kristofferson is 76. Singer Howard Kaylan is 65. Singer-musician Todd Rundgren is 64. Actress Meryl Streep is 63. Actress Lindsay Wagner is 63. Singer Cyndi Lauper is 59. Actor-producer-writer Bruce Campbell is 54. TV personality Carson Daly is 39.