Random music news for Monday, September 17, 2018

Back at work after two weeks of time off and just in time for tonight’s Polaris Music Prize gala. I’ll be the one in the back suffering from severe jetlag. And now, the music news for September 17, 2018.

1. While we have Polaris, there are grumblings about the similar Mercury Prize in the UK.
2. Lenny Kravitz…toothpaste?
3. Rick Astley…beer?
4. Paul McCartney just scored his first #1 album in 36 years with his new record, Egypt Station…
5. …and Macca has something to say about Donald Trump.
6. Some women are annoyed that the new iPhones are just too big for their hands.
7. Tony Bennett just nailed down a very obscure Guinness Book of World Records prize. (Via Larry)
8. If you’re a fan of AC/DC, there’s a new book coming on the Bon Scott years this November.
9. Why are so many older rockers getting into real estate?
10. Michael Jackson’s Thriller: “The most inspiring album of all time.” Discuss.
11. Well, wasn’t that nice of Metallica to do this in Winnipeg. (Via Tom)
12. The oral history of the Judgement Night soundtrack is actually the story of hip-hop mating with rock.
13. If you’re gonna be in a K-pop band, think about who you’re going to date–or else.
14. Why won’t The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” leave the UK charts? I mean, it’s been fourteen years!
15. Metallica reveals some sonic secrets about their new whiskey.
16. No wonder Taylor Swift is scared to pick up her mail
17. is that trial regarding Justin Bieber’s egging of his neighbour’s house still going on? Yep.
18. Bieber is also applying for US citizenship. Fine. Take him.
19. Looks like George Michael left a lot of music behind when he died.
20. Check out this musical army that’s protesting against Trump.
21. Looking to jam with someone anywhere in the world? There’s an app for that.
22. If you were ever a fan of Silverchair, you should read this.
23. Here’s a great history of the Pixies Surfer Rosa album. (Via Moe)