Crib Notes

Seems like there was more action behind-the-scenes than onstage, despite the 20-plus performances at this year’s Grammy Awards.

Chris Brown reportedly got gangsta with his girlfriend Rihanna, causing them both to cancel their performances. The alleged reason behind the smackdown should bring a whole new meaning to their upcoming collabo, “Bad Girl,” produced by Atlantan Polow da Don for the Confessions of a Shopaholic soundtrack. Meanwhile the real “gangstas,” Lil Wayne and T.I., delivered upstanding, redemptive performances — neither of which required NARAS President Neil Portnow to excuse their inclusion in the program, the way he had to when Eminem performed to the chagrin of gay rights activists in 2001.

Of course, the Recording Academy continued this year with the ultra-lame generational mashup theme that made for some of the oddest pairings ever.

Surely, Stevie Wonder would’ve been insulted if only he could’ve seen how silly he looked on stage with the Jonas Brothers. The Al Green/Justin Timberlake pairing was quite a yawner, but perhaps we should be thankful that Timberlake didn’t attempt to rip Green’s shirt off for a grand finale. And did we really need to see B.B. King and John Mayer trade ugly guitar faces for the second year in a row?

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LOVE’S IN NEED OF LOVE TODAY: Stevie at Philips Arena, Nov. 1.

(photos by Perry Julien)

Near the end of his concert at Philips Arena last night, Stevie Wonder shared a poignant message with all the haters of the world: If you really want to hate, he said, why don’t you just die and go straight to hell so the lovers can live in peace.

I’m paraphrasing, but it pretty much went like that. Followed by thunderous applause. (more…)

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When it comes to music coverage at Creative Loafing, Mosi Reeves is the man. And I’m not just saying that because he’s my — well, actually, I’m his boss.

As such, it’s my job to kick back and let him do all the hard work while I take credit for it. (No, really, it says so in my job description.)

Might sound like a bad joke, but that’s literally what happened in this week’s (Sept. 13-19) print edition of the Loaf, which hit stands today. Unfortunately, it went to press before I discovered I had accidentally placed my byline on a great story he wrote about Stevie Wonder, who performs at Chastain this Friday.

Mosi’s insightful piece gives today’s soul artists reason to question their level of artistic sacrifice in comparison to Wonder’s groundbreaking legacy. But I don’t want to steal his thunder like I stole his byline; so why don’t you read about it here.

After which, you can forward all kudos to me.

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The Queen of Soul has canceled her upcoming Chastain performance, which was scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 1, citing hot-as-hell temps in Atlanta. She issued a statement:

Regretfully due to the record breaking high temperatures, it is impossible to perform in the 90 degree temperatures as it is far too stressful on the body. I have had significant difficulty in finishing my last two concerts in the 80 degree temperatures. Hopefully, we can re-schedule and my sincerest apologies to Chastain Park and the fans in Atlanta. I hope to see you soon.

All the best,

Aretha Franklin

Can’t say I blame her. I just hope Stevie Wonder doesn’t get any ideas and cancel his Sept. 14, Chastain gig.

Who is booking these vets for outside shows, anyway? I know Chastain is supposed to be the cat’s meow, but it’s sort of a travesty when you think about it. Considering all the dues they’ve paid, Aretha and Stevie deserve air-conditioning for every performance. Plus, has anybody noticed how much weight the two of them have put on over the last few years? I know Ms. Franklin is trying to lose some pounds before her upcoming wedding, but sweating it off during live performances is not the way.

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