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Madonna news - Sep. 2002
← Aug. 2002 | Oct. 2002 →
M taking ballet lessons for NY show? *rumour*
Source: The Mirror - 30 September 2002Madonna seems set to take to the Broadway stage for a one-off performance. She has apparently been in secret talks with the choreographer from her 2001 Drowned World tour and is said to be close to signing a deal to appear for a limited time in November in a so-far unnamed show in New York.
Choreographer Jamie King is said to have given Madge orders to train in ballet for the show, which will feature a number of celebrity guests. But we don't think the 44-year-old mother of two will have too much trouble getting into ballet as it was one of her first loves before she became a superstar.
In the early 1980s she would dance for hours with her mentor Christopher Flynn, who inspired her early career. She was a perfectionist even in those days, so learning a few moves for this latest show should be simple.
But Madge may have taken on too much of late. She has her disastrous film to promote, a Bond theme tune to release and a brand new album to record. Not to mention bringing up her children, Lourdes and Rocco.
Does 'Can't You See My Mind' exist after all? *rumour*
Source: AbsoluteMadonna - 29 September 2002Victor Calderone has told website Madonnapower that he remixed a song for Madonna called 'Can't You See My Mind', and that it's completely separate from Die Another Day.
He seemed to indicate that it would also be on the James Bond soundtrack, although it is more likely to be included with the next album. It was originally rumored to be the title of Die Another Day.
Swept Away soundtrack
29 September 2002The soundtrack album to Swept Away will be released October 15th but is already available for pre-orders at several internet sites, like Amazon.com.
Check fansite Madonnapowerfor the artwork and tracklisting. It doesn't feature any song by Madonna.
Madonna second only to God on the web
Source: Herald Sun - 29 September 2002They say you can judge celebrities' popularity by the number of websites devoted to their very being. Type Britney Spears's name into the Google search engine and you will be bombarded with 1.3 million results. Madonna garners a whopping 2.3 million - way short of the adoration for God, who strikes back with 36.5 million.
So, imagine Colin Firth's humiliation - shame even - that his name elicits a mere 47,800 comebacks. That's fewer references than to Australia's ho-hum and comparatively nondescript Prime Minister, John Howard - he manages at least 69,400 hits - or our own girl-next-door-cum-star Nicole Kidman's 287,000.
More on DAD video
Source: Madonnarama - 29 September 2002Here's the low-down from a fan who recently got to see the video in full: "It's a very dark video. There appears to be a total of 3 Madonnas in the video. One is being interrogated/tortured by dunking her face in ice water, electric chair, etc. but she fights back. It's bruised and battered Madonna again (think Drowned World Tour) except she has blonde hair.
Other sequences that are going on have two dueling Madonnas - one in black and one in white. They start out fencing each other. Then it appears that they are in some type of James Bond museum and they use a bunch of weapons on each other from various past James Bond movies. It appears they are trying to kill each other.
One of the Madonna gets her stomach sliced and the scene is kind of bloody. At one point during the fight, there is a painting of Pierce Brosnan (as James Bond) in a fencing suit. The fencing sword lands right on his crotch. Though the song is dark and violent (again), it is a good showcase for the new song."
Radio release date pushed forward
Source: Madonnarama - 29 September 2002Got the Die Another Day MP3? Well, if not, you can expect to hear it on the radio immediately following the unauthorised leak yesterday.
Radio stations worldwide have now been given the goahead to play the single - ahead of the planned radio date of 7 October - following the leak on Z100 Radio in the US.
There is even talk of bringing the single release date forward, though - as far as we know, the video is still to premiere at the same time.
DAD ONLINE NOW
27 September 2002Die Another Day premiered on US radio Z100 is can now be downloaded here. And read the updated lyrics here.
Madonna.com on DAD single and video premiere
Source: Madonna.com - 27 September 2002The soundtrack to the new James Bond film will be released at the beginning of November.
The album, to be called Die Another Day, will be released on November 11. However, the film itself isn't released until November 20. The soundtrack includes Madonna's Die Another Day as well as a Paul Oakenfold remix of John Barry's Bond theme and an original score composed by David Arnold. The single to Madonna's Die Another Day will be released in late October with remixes by Dirty Vegas, Deepsky, Felix Da Housecat and Thunderpuss.
Here's what some radio DJs are saying about the new song:ERIK BRADLEY, MD, B96, Chicago: "The theme of the upcoming James Bond movie. It's one of the more exciting records I've heard in the last few months... and I'm sooooo excited to play it on B96!"
JERRY McKENNA, PD, WQSX, Boston: "This is a good Pop/Dance record!"
ROB TYLER, MD, WQSX, Boston: "Freakin' smash!"
Guy chats online and with Jay Leno
27 September 2002Guy Ritchie is to take part in an online chat about 'Swept Away' on MSN on the 30th September 2002 9pm ET / 6pm PT. Bookmark now the chatroom on this page. Guy is also scheduled to appear on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on October 3rd.
VH1 viewers vote M as the greatest
Source: Daily Express - 27 September 2002Madonna has beaten such legendary artists as Aretha Franklin and Billie Holiday to be named the greatest woman in music history. The 44-year-old is the most successful female chart act of all time - with worldwide sales of more than 140 million records in her nearly 20 years at the top of the pop world.
More than 750,000 votes were cast in a poll carried out by music channel VH1, and Madonna was the clear winner with 17%. Kylie Minogue's transition from former soap star to pop icon is complete: she made second place. Canadian singer Celine Dion is in third place, followed by Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin. Kate Bush, whose biggest hit was her debut single Wuthering Heights in 1978, is the highest-placed British artist in 10th place.
The list of 100 women contained a few surprises - there is no place for "First Lady of Jazz" Ella Fitzgerald, but there is room for the caterwauling Yoko Ono (99). Other British stars named include Annie Lennox (14), Dido (21), Gabrielle (41) and Sharleen Spiteri (49). Eighties favourites Kim Wilde (70) and Bananarama (95) are both there, as is Lulu (93) and the late Kirsty MacColl (74).
The Spice Girls are at 44 and Mel C made it in at 58, four places above Geri Halliwell who is at number 62. But Emma Bunton, Mel B and Victoria Beckham are nowhere to be seen.
Miss Scotland will wear M's tartan
Source: Daily Record - 27 September 2002A one-off dress made in a tartan specially designed for Madonna and Guy Ritchie is being given a rare outing at an international beauty pageant in Japan.
Romantic Scotland, based on the Ritchie and New York Fire Department tartans, was designed as a first wedding anniversary gift for the couple, who were married at Dornoch Cathedral, Sutherland in December 2002.
Both Madonna and film director Guy are often seen showing their love of tartan by wearing kilts. The dress, created for the Romantic Scotland tourism initiative to attract more couples to Scotland, will be worn at the Tokyo pageant by Miss Scotland beauty Juliet Jane Horne, who is competing in the event.
Juliet, who is also Miss World runner-up, Miss UK and Miss Europe, wore the dress for its only other outing at the launch of the new tourist initiative. Last night, Fiona Jack, project manager for the Romantic Scotland campaign, said: "Juliet is such an ambassador for Scotland and we are delighted that she has chosen to wear the Romantic Scotland dress at the Miss International pageant."
M to cameo in Hugh Grant's 'Love, Actually'? *rumour*
Source: ITV - 26 September 2002Madonna is in talks over a cameo role in Hugh Grant's latest film, Love Actually. It features ten romantic stories that climax on Christmas Eve, and co-stars ex-EastEnders songbird Martine McCutcheon.
Hugh plays the newly elected Prime Minister, alongside Emma Thompson as his sister and Alan Rickman as Emma's husband. Martine plays a tea girl with whom Hugh's character falls in love. The film also hails a directing debut from the Four Weddings and a Funeral screenwriter, Richard Curtis.
The release date of Love Actually has yet to be announced, but it should hit cinemas in 2003. Ahead of this star-studded montage, expect to see Madonna in the new James Bond adventure, Die Another Day, in which she plays a fencing instructor. Its world premiere takes place at London's Royal Albert Hall on November 18.
She is also in a remake of Swept Away, directed by hubbie Guy Ritchie, in which she plays Amber, a rich American shipwrecked on a deserted Mediterranean island together with an Italian sailor. It might be hot stuff - but unlikely to set the world alight, to judge from all the negative word of mouth publicity ahead of opening.
VH1 on DAD video
Source: VH1 - 26 September 2002Madonna is moving into the field of covert operations. In her new video for "Die Another Day," the pop diva, lusty temptress and maternal nurturer becomes involved in a world of intrigue and espionage.
The song is the title track for the next James Bond movie, which opens in theaters November 22. The upbeat dance cut is filled with electronic flourishes and the stealthy, suspenseful vibe essential to all Bond themes. It will be released to radio October 7.
In the clip, which was shot in Los Angeles earlier this month by directing team Traktor, Madonna plays a secret agent placed in death-defying situations reminiscent of scenes from past 007 films. In one clip, she's strapped into an electric chair; in another, she has her head held underwater by double agents; and a third features the nephew of Harold Sakata - the Oddjob character from "Goldfinger" - flinging deadly bowler hats at Madonna as his uncle did to Sean Connery back in 1964.
In one highlight, a "good" Madonna dressed in white engages in a duel with her evil alter ego, who wears black. The scene makes reference to Madonna's cameo role in the movie as a fencing instructor.
The soundtrack for "Die Another Day," which features Paul Oakenfold and others, will be released November 12.
DAD details from Warner France
Source: Warner France - 26 September 2002Warner France has issued a press release stating following details about Die Another Day:
The French title is 'Meurs Un Autre Jour'
AOL can air DAD exclusively on Oct. 7th - radio stations worldwide will follow on Oct. 8th.
There will be remixes of Dirty Vegas, Felix Da Housecat, Deep Sky and Thunderpuss
he commercial single will be released October 28th
Madonna will probably attend the Die Another Day premiere in London on November 18th
No confirmation as yet if she'll appear at the MTV Video Music Awards which are held in Barcelona on November 14th
The DAD video, directed by The Tractor Collective, will be exclusively broadcast by MTV on October 10th. It won't contain any images of the movie. Parts of the will appear in the third DAD trailer, which will be shown in theatres.
M in ad against illegal music downloads
Source: Reuters - 26 September 2002Pop princess Britney Spears, the bubbly dancing spokesgirl for Pepsi, will soon be hawking again but on a more serious note in a commercial to warn people of the evils of online piracy. Spears, rapper Nelly, hip-hop diva Missy Elliott and other pop stars will be featured in coming weeks in TV spots funded by the world's biggest record labels to educate people about illegal downloading of music, which the music industry blames for a protracted sales slump. [...]
The print ads ask the question, "Who Really Cares About Illegal Downloading?," then answer it with a diverse list of nearly 90 major recording artists and songwriters, including such superstars as Eminem, Madonna, the Dixie Chicks, Missy Elliott, Elton John, Sting, Phil Collins, Luciano Pavarotti, Brian Wilson, Spears, and Natalie Cole.
Swept Away screening has 'em laughing
Source: MSNBC - 25 September 2002'Swept Away', a remake of the 1974 Lina Wertmuller film is due for release next month, starring Madonna and directed by hubby, Guy Ritchie. The project was been plagued with rumors of problems — and reportedly was pulled from Cannes after test audiences gave it a thumbs down.
It has reportedly been re-edited since then, and was shown last week at the Conde Nast International Film Forum at the AMC movie theater. Insiders say the audience was howling with laughter — and that was during Madonna's dramatic scenes. "Yes, Madonna says 'f - - -' a lot and she gets slapped in the face three times, but the movie was a complete bore," a self-described fan named John wrote on the fan site Madonnarama.com.
"The audience was snickering and laughing throughout the entire second half of the film." Fans say that the singer's yogafied body looks fab and the film's fashions are amazing. But the word is that people in the audience were leaving the theater in droves.
Another Madonna fan declared it the "worst movie ever. And her acting was terrible." Madonna's spokeswoman has told The Scoop, "Give the film a chance and see it before you decide if you hate it."
Madonna in German Gala Magazine
Source: MLVC mailing list - 25 September 2002Madonna is on cover of the German magazine GALA's September 2002 12, 2002 issue. Inside there's 4 pages dedicated to Madonna including a lot of great pictures.
DAD soundtrack release date confirmed (again)
Source: Ananova - 25 September 2002The soundtrack to the new James Bond film will be released at the beginning of November. The album, to be called Die Another Day, will be released on November 11. However, the film itself isn't released until November 20.
The soundtrack includes Madonna's Can't You See My Mind as well as a Paul Oakenfold remix of John Barry's Bond theme and an original score composed by David Arnold.
~ The rumours about the Bond title actually being called 'Can't You See My Mind' instead of 'Die Another Day' are still circulating. Some remixers seem to call that song that way, but we stress that official sources talk about 'Die Another Day' so to us that seems to be the correct title.
Madonna talks about her Bond role and song
Source: CommanderBond - 25 September 2002In an interview with Genre magazine Madonna has spoken of her two roles in Die Another Day; that is, of the title song and of her cameo role.
To begin with, Madonna has confirmed earlier reports that her role in Die Another Day would be that of James Bond's fencing instructor. Obviously, the role will see her on screen opposite Pierce Brosnan.
There is still no word on how long Madonna will be seen on screen, thought it was recently revealed that her characters name is Verity.
Of the theme song for Die Another Day Madonna has told Genre,
"The song I wrote for the Bond film is about destroying your ego, and it's juxtaposing the metaphor of, you know, the fight against good and bad, and it's set inside the whole universe of Bond. Like all Bond films, somebody's chasing him or he's chasing somebody and it's always a fight against good and evil. I wanted to take it to another level. It's kind of a metaphor.. I'm fighting myself."
If you'd like to discuss Madonna's comments please visit this thread of the Die Another Day Forums.
DAD single artwork
Source: Madonnarama - 25 September 2002The cover photo for 'Die Another Day' will be one of the black and white pictures from the 'Pop' magazine shoot, featuring Madonna in the black jacket (almost certainly the same picture as on Genre magazine, as seen below).
The artwork features maroon and black stripes in the background. The entire artwork is based on black, white, maroon and grey.
Madonna.com confirms DAD release dates
Source: Madonna.com - 24 September 2002The title song to the new James Bond film 'Die Another Day' is going to US radio on October 10th and also that day MTV will have a worldwide simultaneous video debut. This is the first time that MTV has ever done this!
The commercial single will be released in late October on Warner Bros. The b-side will be remixes of the single.
Swept Away soundtrack
Source: Madonnarama - 23 September 2002The Swept Away soundtrack is set to be released in America on October the 15th, according to amazon.com. The album will feature original score by Madonna-collaborator Michel Colombier.
Amazon is taking pre-orders already. This should be a great preview of what Colombier can do!
DWT loses at Emmy's but wins at AOL
22 September 2002Tonight the 54th Annual Emmy Awards, which celebrates the Best US TV shows, were broadcast.
Though the Drowned World Tour was nominated twice for an Emmy Award, once for Outstanding Choreography and once for Outstanding Costumes, it lost out to the opening ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games 2002 in Salt Lake City.
However, at the second annual AOL TV Viewer Awards, the Drowned World Tour was chosen by viewers as Best TV Concert.
DAD single and soundtrack details
21 September 2002Fansite Madonnarama claims to have following information on the DAD single and soudtrack confirmed:
7 Oct: single brought to radio
10 Oct: worldwide simultaneous video debut
28 Oct: commercial single release Making of the video is being done by MTV for all MTV channels around the world
The 'Die Another Day' soundtrack will be released on WB (not Maverick) on 11 November (12 November for the US). The UK catalogue no. is 9362 48389-2
The music contained will be:
- 'Die Another Day' performed by Madonna and produced by Mirwais
- 'James Bond Theme' remixed by Paul Oakenfold.
- Original score music composed by David Arnold.
As previously mentioned, the CD-E will include Madonna's video for the single 'Die Another Day' plus an extract of the MTV Making Of documentary. For the UK, the Enhanced CD will be a limited edition (so that it does not break chart eligibility rules).
The album artwork will be based on the film poster, though there will be localised versions for international territories (featuring an inserted card).
The main title sequence for the film, which will include Madonna's song, will last for approximately 10 minutes. There will be a radio edit plus an album version of the song. The UK promo will have the catalogue no. PRO 3599.
The commercial single will be released on October 28th. The b-side will be an as yet unconfirmed remix of the single. Despite what you may have read elsewhere, the definitive title of the single is 'Die Another Day'. Reviews of the single which relate it to sounding like 'Music' and featuring heavily-autotuned vocals in parts are accurate.
Madonna is the sexiest
Source: VH1 - 19 September 2002What is sexy? How do you define it? What exact combination of sex appeal, confidence, beauty, class and attitude are needed to make it? VH1 has voted Madonna as the sexiest artist of Rock and Roll.
Whether she's provocatively posing for her SEX book or successfully combining motherhood and her career, Madonna still has that "Je ne sais quoi" that leaves us mesmerized.
Now, VH1 adds it all up and counts down music's "100 Sexiest Artists" in a new five-hour, five consecutive night special. Premiering Monday, September 2002 23, each special airs at 10:00-11:00 p.m. (ET/PT).
M in Guinness Book of Records 2003
17 September 2002Madonna appears twice in the 2003 edition of the Guinness Book of Records: she's had the most costume changes in Evita, and What It Feels Like For A Girl is the best selling DVD.
The categorie 'Best Selling Female Artist' has been removed, probably because of claims of record companies of some other pop bitches. But we all know who earned and still owns this title.
No family pop group for Guy
Source: PeopleNews - 16 September 2002Guy Ritchie has finally given up on his dreams of forming a family pop group. He bought wife Madonna a guitar after Rocco was born. 'I really fancied playing together but we just tended to get really ratty with each other. I've got no sense of time and I always wanted to lead,' he says.
Dying octopus?
Source: PeopleNews - 16 September 2002More ravishing details of Swept Away have been revealed by Madonna's co-star Adriano Giannini. First it was a bowl of pasta thrown in her face, now it is a live octopus.
'We used a real one,' he explains, 'the thing was dying and at one point I had to give it mouth to mouth resuscitation.' Perhaps a veiled reference to Madge's acting talents?
GM buys rights of M music for ad
Source: Oakland Press - 16 September 2002The overhaul of General Motors Corp.'s advertising campaign continues this week as the automaker rolls out two new spots over the next several days, including one featuring music by hometown diva Madonna.
Christopher J. Fraleigh, executive director of advertising and corporate marketing for GM, said the automaker has acquired the rights to Madonna's music for the new corporate ad touting its newest vehicles. [...]
Fraleigh, however, was careful to note GM has not asked the controversial pop star, who grew up in Rochester Hills and whose father worked at General Motors, to act as a spokeswoman for the company. "We just bought the rights to her music, that's all," he said.
DAD remix played in club
Source: Madonnarama - 16 September 2002Clubgoers got a hot surprise last night in New York! A 15 minute dub-like remix of Madonna's Die Another Day was played last night at New York gay club 'Splash'.
The club went nuts as they played the song and our sources described as a "fresh, new sound" for Madonna, noting that it was a very original sounding remix and had a harder edge to it than her last few singles.
It is believed that one of the members of Thunderpuss was spinning at the club and that it was their remix!
Madonna pays medical costs for mother of Lola's pal
Source: Daily Star - 16 September 2002Kind hearted Madonna has unofficially "adopted" her daughter's pal after the girl's mum caught a deadly disease. The school mate became a friend of little Lourdes when they met at a school in Los Angeles.
Madonna stepped in after the school pal stopped attending classes because her mum was suffering from a blood disorder. Madge immediately arranged for a limo to pick up the youngster from her home on one of the city's working class estates.
She and film director hubby Guy ritchie are also paying for expert medical care for the woman. And Madge has pledged to look after the schoolgirl should anything happen to her.
A source explained: "Lourdes met the girl at the Kabbalah Children's Academy and the pair quickly became pals. This is costing Madonna a small fortune. And she couldn't care less about how much she's spending. What matters is getting this woman better."
DAD clothing designer speaks
Source: Madonnarama - 13 September 2002Far-out fashion designer Jeremy Scott is on fire, reports sister/business manager Barbara Scott. "He's got some very exciting things going on," she says. "He did the clothes for the new Madonna music video. He designed her clothing for it. It's in correlation to the new James Bond movie that she has a song in."
The music video is slated to debut on MTV in October, Barbara says. "He spent five days with her during the shoot to make sure everything held together. Because she's pretty active in the video and does a lot of dancing."
The look Scott chose for Madonna: "He told me it was very fencing-inspired," Barbara says. "Her publicist said it has a pretty out-of-this-world look. And she also represents Cher and wants him to dress Cher."
When Jeremy reported to chez Madonna to do the fittings the place was so busy he parked outside and carried the gown up to her gate. When he turned around a tour bus had pulled up "and it was like lightening - all the flashbulbs from people taking pictures," Barbara says.
"They didn't even know who he was, they were just thrilled to see anybody walking into Madonna's gate."
Hayek thanks competitor Madonna for helping 'Frida'
Source: Zap2it - 13 September 2002It wasn't quite a competition, but Salma Hayek thanks Madonna for setting up competition for the film rights to the life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. "It if weren't for Madonna's interest, I think it would have been more of a struggle for me to get the movie made," says Hayek, who stars and produces the movie "Frida" which has critics raving at the Toronto International Film Festival. "Everyone is interested in what Madonna is interested in, and what she does, so her interest in the project really helped," Hayek tells Zap2it.
What happened, though, is that Hayek's project, directed by "Titus" director Julie Taymor, has come out first, and pretty much scuttled Madonna and Jennifer Lopez's projects in the meantime.
Working on the film for six years, Hayek, who is Mexican-born as well, considers this a personal pet project and something she dreamed of doing all her life. Hayek's movie isn't as much a biopic as a drama about the life of the flamboyant artist and her relationship with mural artist Diego Rivera, played by Alfred Molina.
Along the way, the character falls in love -- and bed -- with Trotsky, played by Geoffrey Rush -- and photographer Tina Modotti, played by Ashley Judd as well as sharing a lover with Rivera, played by Saffron Burrows. "We weren't pressured in any way to downplay the bisexuality," director Taymor tells Zap2it. "In fact, we used diary entries and books."
In one scene, when Kahlo seduces a singer who looks suspiciously like Josephine Baker, Taymor says, "In that case, we're not saying it's Josephine Baker, but it's a singer who looks like her, there were many singing in that style at the time."
"We're not outing anyone," adds Hayek, smiling, "but there is evidence that they -uh, knew each other." The story starts with Frida as a girl suffering a trolley accident that caused her pain for the rest of her life. Hayek plays the girl as a teenager and plays her throughout the life story.
Although it was portrayed for years as competitive projects, Hayek says, "I'm grateful to Madonna because she took interest in this Mexican artist very early on before people knew about Frida Kahlo. It really helped us get the movie made. I'm grateful to her appreciation of our art and culture."
DAD promo is fake
13 September 2002Madonnapower reports that the promo for Die Another Day that appeared on their (and this) newspage is a fake. It is uncertain if radio stations have actually received a promo yet.
DAD on US radio on October 15th
Source: Ask Billboard - 12 September 2002Hello Keith!
I was wondering what the radio release date is of Madonna's "Die Another Day?" It must be soon right?
Thanks, Floris
Hi Floris,
According to Maverick, Die Another Day is going for radio play on Oct. 15 in the U.S. The music video should premiere near that date as well. The single is the title track of the forthcoming James Bond film, which is due out Nov. 22 in the U.S. and U.K. The soundtrack to the movie will be released through Maverick, and will hit stores Nov. 12.
Excerpt from ICON interview
Source: ICON, - 11 September 2002Madonna opened up on some interesting topics in a brand new interview with "Icon" magazine. Check out an excerpt from the interview...
TELL US ABOUT THE SONG YOU WROTE FOR DIE ANOTHER DAY?
"It's funky... it rocks... it's the business!"
WHO ARE YOUR 3 FAVORITE PAINTERS?
"Bacon, Frida kahlo, and Egon Schiele. This week, anyway"
DO YOU GIVE A SHIT WHAT THE CRITICS SAY?
"No"
DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO PERFORM UP FOR GRABS IN NY OR ON FILM?
"No"
WHO IS YOUR HERO?
"My sister"
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CANDY?
"red licorice"
HOW MANY COMPUTERS ARE IN YOUR HOUSE?
"We have at least 8 computers. Im on at least one of them every few hours"
Rare demo to get release? *rumour*
Source: Ice Magazine - 11 September 2002One Way [Records] has a new compilation from British duo Naked Eyes due on October 22 called "Everything And More". At the time, Jellybean Benitez was mixing for the group, while producing for a fresh new face on the scene, Madonna.
So he had Madonna into the studio to cut a brief "speaking vocal" for proposed 7- and 12-inch versions of Naked Eyes' Top 20 hit "Promises Promises."
But those particular edits, along with Madonna's cameos, were shelved and never released in any form, even promotionally. One Way's "Everything And More" will include those two tracks.
Guy's favorite albums
Source: MLVC mailing list - 10 September 2002Guy Richie gives a little insight on what to expect from the next Madonna album in the October issue of Blender. "I Wish I Was an Ax Hero" features Guy talking about his ten favorite albums of all time.
Before he discusses his ten favorite, the writer talks about how Madonna accidentally interrupted the interview and left. Then, as he recounts his ten favorite albums of all time, two albums featuring Madonna tracks are listed:
Madonna, EROTICA: "This is when I first starting getting a crush on her. Her earlier stuff was too accessible for me, too girly, but Erotica had that edge. I didn't confess to anyone that I liked it, and I kept appropriating my then-girlfriend's copy and playing it really loud in the car. She gets better with age, the wife. The stuff she is working on now is absolute killer."
SNATCH, Original Soundtrack: "I chose the music -- come on, brother, this is pure class. You've got 'Dreadlock Holiday,' 'Golden Brown,' 'Lucky Star.' And 'Ghost Town,' which is a mega, mega track. If I do say so myself, I make a great soundtrack."
Others on Guy's list of all-time favorite albums: ROCKERS, Original Soundtrack; TIME OF THE GYPSIES, Original Soundtrack; Sex Pistols, NEVER MIND THE BOLLOCKS; AC/DC, BACK IN BLACK; The Beatles, WHITE ALBUM; Pink Floyd, DARK SIDE OF THE MOON; THE BEST OF CARL ORFF; and Eminem, THE EMINEM SHOW.
Swept Away release in Holland
10 September 2002Swept Away is confirmed to be released in Holland on 27 February 2003 by Columbia TriStar Films.
Madonna's letter in ICON
10 September 2002The latest issue of ICON features the following letter by Madonna:
"Hello all you Love Bugs,
Finally back in the old U.S. of A. Enjoying a lot of sunshine and a bit of relaxation. I said a bit...
I just did a promo shoot for Vanity Fair and an interview where I talk lots about Swept Away which, as you probably know, I made with my old man. It's coming out in October and I hope you get a chance to see it.
I will be shooting a video for the Bond song in a few weeks called Die Another Day that will be directed by the Tractor Boys (a very cool directing team). I had to learn how to fence and I am very excited to add that to my arsenal of things I have accomplished.
Other than that I am strumming my guitar and cooking up ideas for my next album. Of course, there's my birthday and my son's birthday to look forward to. We will be celebrating the gift of life, and I hope you are all doing the same.
Don't forget to share your light with someone. Have a great summer!!!!!!
Love, M."
~ It's a bit dated (the video for DAD has already been shot) but it has some nice confirmations: the Bond song is indeed called Die Another Day (the 'Can't You See My Mind' had resurfaced, but is incorrect); the video is indeed shot by the Tractor Boys, and best of all, she's playing guitar on her next album!! :)
DAD promo has arrived
Source: Madonnapower - 10 September 2002
The Die Another Day promo cd has arrived at selected radio stations. Here you see a picture of the German (European) promo cd. The cd has one track which is 4 minutes and 27 seconds, and the catalogue number is 'PRO3822'.
Maverick and VH1 to produce Latino Popstar
Source: Lycos News - 9 September 2002Madonna's Maverick Films is collaborating with music cable network VH1 on a TV movie. The companies are developing "How to be the Perfect Latino Popstar," a Pygmalion story set in the world of Latin music.
Maverick partners Madonna and Guy Oseary will executive produce "Latino Popstar," along with company president Mark Morgan and Bruno Del Granado, who runs Maverick Records' Latin division, Maverick Musica. Laura Angelica Simon wrote the script.
Maverick Films is also producing the Frankie Muniz starrer "Agent Cody Banks" for MGM and developing a remake of the Korean picture "My Sassy Girl" for DreamWorks.
NY Times interview
8 September 2002The NY Times interviewed Madonna and Guy about Swept Away. The result is a long but definitely worthwhile article, in which they talk about collaborating together, awkward love scenes, living together in London, and about who's the most romantic and who's the best cook.
The way they tease each other is incredibly sweet! :) Note that when asked about The Tulse Luper Suitcases (rumoured to be her next movie project), her reaction seems to indicate it's nothing more than a rumour...
No Madonna in Bond trailer
6 September 2002You can watch the trailer of Die Another Day at the offical James Bond site. Unfortunately there's no footage from Madonna, nor anything from her song...
DAD trailer premieres on ET
5 September 2002The official trailer for Die Another Day will premiere on American TV show Entertainment Tonight this evening. Expect to catch a glimpse of Madonna or at least hear a part of the theme song!
More pictures from DAD video
5 September 2002Fansite Little Star scanned some new pictures from the Die Another Day video that appeared in Now Magazine (available in the UK from today). The magazine also features an article about the video.
Guy wants no naked Missus all over the place
Source: Ananova - 5 September 2002Guy Ritchie says he has left out most of the sex and violence from his remake of Swept Away, which stars Madonna. He has reportedly told Vanity Fair magazine he did not want to see his "missus naked all over the place".
The director said he attempted only a quarter of what Italian director Lina Wertmuller hit audiences with in the 1974 original. He claims viewers will no longer stomach scenes showing women being hit. "You can kill as many people as you like, but don't slap a bird," he argued.
References to sodomy were axed for the same reason, he said, because "buggery is no longer in fashion like it used to be." Madonna said she was pleased by the cuts as, saying: "I'm not particularly fond of kissing strange men".
~ You can find scans of the Vanity Fair magazine at fansite DrownedMadonna.
More from Vanity Fair
Source: ET Online - 4 September 2002She's legendary for her envelope-pushing sex appeal. But now, ET has a peek at the modest side of Madonna, who opens up to Vanity Fair about her new movie in the October issue.
From her summer stint in the emotionally charged London play, Up for Grabs, to her new fall film, 'Swept Away,' directed by husband Guy Ritchie, Madonna reflects on her recent experiences and where she is with "life" these days. Although acclaimed, her recent stage appearance wasn't always a joyful experience.
The siren tells the mag, "I ended up with a headache every night from crying. Sometimes I'd show up for work in a happy mood, and I'd just think, I don't want to be sad; I don't want to go where my character has to go tonight - but I can't fake it. That part was exhausting."
As for her new "labor of love," the remake of the 1975 Italian comedy, 'Swept Away,' Madonna tells Vanity Fair that when she first showed the original film to Guy, he had reservations. "Guy loved the film after he got past the first 20 minutes. At first he was like, ' I can't watch this - it's too complicated, and the subtitles are giving me a headache.' But as soon as they got to the island, he tuned in."
Known for directing 'Snatch' and 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,' Guy was at the helm of 'Swept Away,' the story of a slovenly sailor (played by Adriano Giannini, son of Giancarlo Giannini from the original film) who is stranded on an island with his employer (Madonna).
A wealthy, self-centered woman who is used to having her own way, she now finds herself cut off from society. Realizing he has the upper hand, the sailor reverses their roles and becomes the controlling force in the relationship - until they fall in love.
So what did the star couple think about re-creating the very steamy love scenes? "I don't really want to see my missus naked all over the place..." Guy reveals to the mag. Madonna echoes the sentiment saying, "[The original] was about sex and lust, and them desiring each other physically. It didn't seem that there was any point to us rolling around and making out and staying naked in the movie. ... I'm not particularly fond of kissing strange men - contrary to popular belief."
For much more on Madonna, pick up the October issue of Vanity Fair, on stands September 2002 10th. 'Swept Away' sweeps into theaters October 11th.
Madonna confirms children's book
Source: CNN - 4 September 2002Madonna, the pop diva who once wrote and posed naked for a book called "Sex," is now writing spiritual children's books, strumming "Morning has Broken" on her acoustic guitar and cutting erotic scenes out of her movies.
In an interview with Vanity Fair magazine released on Tuesday, Madonna announced she had written a collection of allegorical tales for five- to eight-year-olds with her British movie director husband, Guy Ritchie. "Hey! Nothing is what it seems," Madonna told Vanity Fair, acknowledging that before the birth of her first child, Lourdes, she had been living in a very "me-me-me universe."
The former Material Girl, now a fan of yoga and the Kabbalah mystical Jewish teachings, admits she is going through a Cat Stevens phase after starting guitar lessons shortly after the birth two years ago of her son Rocco.
"Lately I've been doing Cat Stevens songs, just singing to myself. 'Wild World' and 'Morning has Broken' - I play that song every day practically," Madonna said. But more surprisingly, the woman that made a career out of smashing taboos, agreed to tone down the sex and violence in her upcoming movie 'Swept Away' which was directed by Ritchie.
The movie, to be released in the United States next month, is a remake of a 1974 Italian film of the same name about a jaded jet-setter (Madonna) who gets stranded on an island with a swarthy deckhand.
Early word of mouth on the movie has been negative but Madonna and Ritchie, who also directed the British cult movie "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels", have vowed to ignore the critics. "I'd like it if people liked it. But I'm not going to slit my wrists if they don't. Especially because it's a labor of love between me and my husband," Madonna said.
Ritchie said he included only about a quarter of the movie's original sex and violence in the remake, admitting "I don't want to see my missus naked all over the place." Madonna said there didn't seem much point in having her and her co-star "rolling around and making out and staying naked in the movie. I didn't mind it, but Guy didn't want to do it, to tell you the truth. And she added; "I'm not particularly fond of kissing strange men - contrary to popular belief."
M loves London, except the council housing
Source: Ananova - 4 September 2002Madonna loves life in London - except for all the council housing, according to a magazine. She has lived in Kensington, west London, for the past three years, She says she loves capital's architecture and its fantastic gardens.
"I love the way the city looks, minus all the council estates randomly and profusely built up everywhere," she told Vanity Fair magazine. The mother-of-two, who has recently had improvements done to her house, also complained that there was no way of getting builders to work on Saturdays.
"You could bribe them, offer all kinds of bonuses ... But it doesn't matter what you say: they're not coming in on the weekend," she argued. She said the wait had been infuriating, but she still found it refreshing that some people could not be bought.
UK release dates for DAD
4 September 2002According to the MLVC mailing list the Die Another Day single will be released in the UK on October 28. Record store HMV has the DAD soundtrack listed for November 18th.
DAD video director interviewed
Source: Dagbladet - 3 September 2002Norway's biggest newspaper Dagbladet has an interview with Ole Sanders, part of the director collaboration called Traktor who have directed the video for Madonna's new single. He gives plenty of interview, together with the news that MTV will premiere the video simultaneously around the world and that it will be released on DVD.
Ole Sanders, from Sandvika in Norway, was approached in May. He got a handwritten letter from Madonna, and a demo of the song to his hotelroom in Prague, where he was shooting a clip for The Prodigy.
Later he went to Pinewood Studios in London with the Traktor team, to watch a clip from the new Bond movie.
Then he was invited to Madonna's home in London with his collegues, to discuss the project. Throughout the summer he worked on the video with Madonna.
Daily he received e-mails with feedback from her. Sanders says he worked hard on ideas and details, and it came clear to him why she's been on top for 20 years. He also says things about the video, which we already know, such as it has no content of the new Bond movie - but still is very Bond-ish. :)
He says the video will premiere in October on MTV, who for the first time in history will air a video simultaniously around the globe. It will also be released on DVD.
Liz Smith finds Madonna 'boring'
Source: Liz Smith's column at pagesix.com - 3 September 2002WHO'S THAT GIRL? This might be the question asked by anybody reading the coming Vanity Fair cover story on Madonna. The once-upon-a-time sexual provocateur presents an image of domesticity and tranquility that comes close to being, well ... boring.
Mrs. Guy Ritchie tells writer Stephan Daly that she disdains her selfish "me-me-me" past, and her "robotic" rebel phase. (She was still a sheep in many ways, she insists, and lived a "small picture" life.)
The 'Swept Away' star reads hard news off the Internet - no trashy newspapers for her! - and calls gossip an "evil tongue, which has brought down society in many ways." This mother of two still has a sense of humor, thank God, but she'd rather talk about the not-for-profit book of spiritual allegories she and hubby Guy have written - for the 8- to 12-year-old crowd. (Remember when La Ciccone was the devil incarnate and Pepsi canned her over a daring music video?)
Capping it all off is the shocking admission that Madonna sings Cat Stevens songs around the house; "Morning Has Broken" gets airplay around the Ritchie manse almost every day.
You know what, it doesn't surprise me. Right from the moment I met her, I felt Madonna was a bit of a fake, that at heart she was just a little Michigan girl playing dress up, looking for attention, working out her childhood demons. Her current stability and security might not be the hot copy of the past, but personally, I'm happy for her.
DAD single on November 12 / News on new album
Source: Worldpop - 3 September 2002Madonna is heading back into the studio to record the follow up to her Music album with French producer Mirwais once again sitting in the producer's chair. The new album is being recorded in London with a release date expected sometime next year.
Mirwais was responsible for the latest reincarnation of Madonna as a hip artist with her flirtation with the Parisian club culture scene.
Mirwais, half Italian, half Afghan, grew up living in France, and his own '80s band Taxi Girl were hugely influential on both Daft Punk and Air. Mirwais was also the musical director on Madonna's Drowned World tour last year.
Fans of Madonna won't have to wait too long though to hear some new material from the Pop Queen. Madonna's own label Maverick Records is set to release her theme tune from the forthcoming Bond movie Die Another Day on 12 November.
~ Let's hope they didn't confuse the single with the movie soundtrack, which is also scheduled for November 12.
First Madonna picture from DAD video
1 September 2002British newspaper The Mail on Sunday has published a picture of a badly battered and abused Madonna in the Die Another Day video. Thanx to fansite Little Star who scanned the picture.
Complete interview from Jane Magazine
1 September 2002Go to Madonna's Ashram to download the full Swept Away interview which will appear in the October issue of Jane Magazine.
Madonna and Guy disagree on Swept Away ending
1 September 2002Soundbuzz has published another excerpt of the double interview with Madonna and Guy, which will soon be published in full in several magazines:
"Pop icon Madonna's new flick Swept Away has not only upset film critics - she and her husband Guy Ritchie bicker constantly over the movie's ending.
Madonna, who stars as stranded snob Amber alongside Adriano Giannini, as fisherman Pepe, admits that she and her British director spouse are in eternal disagreement over the way the romance should have worked out between the two characters, who develop a relationship on a deserted isle.
Ritchie says, "The ending is where me and the wife disagree. Madonna loves the idea that Amber and Pepe's relationship will work."
Madonna retaliates, "Yes, I believe Amber and Pepe could make it together. Because I believe that both of them underwent a major transformation on the island." But Ritchie fires back, "Madonna thinks Amber would go back home, see the error of her ways and fly out to Pepe again. If Pepe tried to move with her, the little fisherman would be f***ed when he got to civilisation. Once Amber's fallen back into Manhattan life, the dream will just evaporate. No, no. Pepe can't go to Manhattan. It could only work if Amber went his way."
Madonna adds her last word on the matter: "I'm not saying they wouldn't be challenged, but I am an optimist and a romantic, and by the time they got off that island they were friends and they had things in common, which are two key ingredients for a successful friendship."
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