We’ll start with the bad news: Beastie Boy Adam Yauch was diagnosed with cancer of his salivary gland and Parotid gland, forcing the group to cancel their future tour dates and album release. In a video posted on their official site, Yauch joined Adam Horowitz to make the announcement and said that thankfully the prognosis is good, as his cancer is treatable with surgery and radiation. Rolling Stone reports that EMI released the following statement: “Our thoughts, love and prayers are with Adam Yauch, his family and the Beastie Boys. The most important thing is to allow Adam to focus on staying healthy. We wish him all the best and a speedy recovery.” This.
On a much lighter note, check out Papermag’s interview with Sonic Youth’s Thurston Moore. There are some great bits, including his love for black metal and praise for the music scene in Williamsburg.
Bob Dylan made a rare television appearance last night, performing his Oscar-winning song “Things Have Changed” at the AFI Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony for Michael Douglas. To watch Dylan’s performance, click here. His voice doesn’t sound too good, but I don’t think I’ve seen Dylan’s electric guitar chops quite like this before.
Beth Ditto took a break from her Katy Perry bashing of late to give us this little quote about the Yeah Yeah Yeahs: “Gossip were a band before they were, but they became bigger much quicker. Why? Because Karen O’s conventional beauty is a tool.”
Finally, check out Pitchfork’s interview with Arcade Fire’s Win Butler and Spoon’s Britt Daniel on their respective relationships with Merge Records here.