Pop Bites: Nick Cannon, Michael Jackson’s new album and more
Jay Z and Live Nation are planning to stage a West Coast edition of the Made in America Festival, the multi-day, Jay-curated festival that’s been held in Philadelphia. News of the plans were leaked after a councilman requested the city hold off issuing permits until the he could vet it. L.A.’s Made in America would be staged during Labor Day weekend -- just like in Philly. If the city can make it work -- which certainly seems likely given the combined stock of Jay, Live Nation and festival sponsor Budweiser -- it will be a boon for L.A. music fans who didn’t have the money to splurge on Coachella. (Johnny Nunez / WireImage)
Dishing what’s sweet, and sour, from the week in music. By Gerrick D. Kennedy
Ryan Seacrest announced that ‘N Sync, which briefly reunited during Justin Timberlake’s MTV Video Music Awards medley, would hit the road in 2015 and issue a new album featuring its greatest hits and two new tunes. Turns out the whole thing was a well orchestrated April Fools’ stunt. Good one, Ryan. Fans should have known better, considering how quickly Timberlake rushed his less famous pals off the stage during his VMA performance. Boy band lovers can, however, find comfort knowing the reality-TV-produced outfit O-Town is giving it a go after a 10-year hiatus. (Sorry, that’s not a joke.) (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)
Pharrell Williams will replace Cee Lo Green on “The Voice” when the NBC show returns for its seventh season. Williams is in the midst of a terrific year -- “Happy” is a worldwide phenomenon, four new Grammys (including producer of the year), a hit comeback album, etc. -- so if there’s anyone to make viewers who’ve given up on the competition tune back in, it’s him. Pro tip for hopefuls looking to get Williams to spin his chair during the blind audition: Douse yourself in his debut fragrance. It arrives in the fall. (Mark Davis / Getty Images for BET)
