Simon and John in the studio last week

Nick Rhodes Takes a Stand

Nick stepping out at Nobu

Nick Rhodes attended the widely-protested BP sponsored art exhibit at the Tate last night, and was quoted in Bloomberg Businessweek, saying “I’d much rather the money be in the hands of the arts than a petroleum company, I can tell you that. So anything they want to give, let’s take it.” I’d love to hear more of Nick’s thoughts on what are surely a couple of his favorite topics: art and commerce. (Gracias to Denisse Le Bon Taylor Brown for the photo)

Duran Duran In the Running at WFNX

Vote for Duran Duran in the Top 101 WFNX Artists of All Time! Duran Duran is locked in the running at number 50, but your votes can move them up. Click on Duran Duran here, then choose the slightly hilarious “rad” option.

Roger and Jake at A'RENILE

New Pics of Roger Taylor in Italy

Duranasty has some stellar recent photos of Roger looking quite fit in Pietrasanta, Italy. Roger has been spending a lot of time in Italy lately. I’d like to see more Jake and Roger DJ dates this summer… how ’bout a few in the States?

Rock Hall of Fame Petition

Don’t forget to sign the petition to get Duran Duran to the Rock Hall of Fame! It only takes a minute to click here and show your support. The staff at DDTRH has been working overtime to gain recognition for the cause with interesting interviews and fun contests, so be sure to check give their Facebook a like.

Duran Duran Suggested for 2012 Olympics

Entertainment Weekly has a great idea for Duran Duran at the 2012 Olympics,  saying “I think you’ve got to celebrate the Brits’ love of pop with a medley of artists popular from the ’50s (the last time London hosted an Olympics was 1948) through today. And that line-up must include Duran Duran. What? They could do an ’80 hit, then “(Reach Up for The) Sunrise.” (The lyrics are inspiring, and 80,000 people raising their hands for the chorus = good TV.)”  Take a moment to leave a comment on the article and let them know what you think.

John Taylor’s New Roads School Project

JT at New Roads School 15th Anniversary

John wrote one of his signature fantastic blogs on the New Roads School project. The  Limited Edition DC/DVD is still available and features John performing with student musicians, Stewart Copeland of the Police, John Densmore  of the Doors, and Raul Pacheco of Ozomatli. As John says, “It’s a limited edition, and comes dressed in a beautiful sleeve designed by the great Nick Egan, who designed ‘The Wedding Album’ and directed ‘Ordinary World’. The songs are intercut with playground chit-chat, which gives the listener an idea about what it is that makes the school click and why it is so unusual. I’m quite proud of the CD, and you can order it by going to the school website: New Roads School.” (Thanks to MissNovemberTuesday for the photo)

Mick Karn Update

Thankfully, Mick Karn (former bassist of Japan who is suffering from cancer) has obtained a medical card  In Cyprus, so the state will now take care of his basic medical costs. You can read Mick’s grateful message to all who continue to donate at MickKarn.net, as these funds help to care for his family and fund alternative treatment methods. Also, Midge Ure is planning a benefit concert scheduled for August 31… more details to come.

Mark Ronson and the Business Tour?

A little bird told me that Mark Ronson wants to do a tour in support of his upcoming album, most likely in the October time-frame. The thing is, he wants to take all of the performers on his album with him — there are many, including Boy George, Nick Hodgson, Wiley, and of course Simon Le Bon. I can only imagine how expensive and such a tour would be (not to mention nearly impossible to schedule). Perhaps the talented Mr. Ronson can pull it off… I’ll keep you posted.