Flamboyant singer-instrumentalist Little Richard, whose high-voltage, keyboard-shattering R&B singles supplied lift-off for the ’50s rock ‘n’ roll revolution, has died. The musician, whose birth name was Richard Penniman, was 87, although some sources say he was older. 20 more words
via Little Richard, Flamboyant Rock and Roll Pioneer, Dies at 87 — Variety
News of the death of veteran music executive Andre Harrell hit the industry hard with many artists, former colleagues, fans and friends expressing their grief on social media Friday night, May 8, into Saturday. 25 more words
via Andre Harrell Remembered by Mariah Carey, 50 Cent, Kamala Harris and More — Variety
The music of Little Richard, who died on Saturday at the age of 87, was one of the genuine architects of not only rock and roll but R&B, soul, hip-hop and other genres as well. 22 more words
via Little Richard Remembered by Mick Jagger, Ringo Starr, Chuck D, Spike Lee, Many More — Variety
No one can do a Little Richard composition like Little Richard. In the finest moments from the rock and roll pioneer — who died Saturday at the age of 87 — self-penned songs were as flamboyant as his appearance. 18 more words
via Little Richard’s 10 Greatest Songs – and Some Iconic Covers — Variety
With no fanfare, Hollywood studios and leaders of the Writers Guild of America have moved back the start of masters contract negotiations a week to May 18. 31 more words
via Writers Guild Contract Negotiations With Studios Pushed Back a Week — Variety
The Mayor of Flavortown is giving back to restaurant workers around the country. Guy Fieri has helped raise more than $20 million by partnering with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, he announced in an interview with TMZ. 19 more words
via Guy Fieri Raises More Than $20 Million for Restaurant Workers Affected by Coronavirus — Variety
Los Angeles County officials have announced plans to move into Stage 2 of the reopening process on Friday, May 8. Stores that sell toys, books, clothing, music and sporting goods will be allowed to reopen for curbside pickup only, county officials announced on Wednesday. 13 more words
via L.A. County Announces Reopening of Certain Stores, Public Spaces on Friday — Variety
In today’s TV news roundup, Netflix announced the cast and creator of “Dead to Me” will host a live table read in celebration of its Season 2 premiere, and Paramount Network released the trailer of “Yellowstone” Season 3. 22 more words
via TV News Roundup: Netflix Announces ‘Dead to Me’ Charity Live Table Read — Variety
In a guest article written for Variety, Christine Eloy, managing director of Europa Distribution, which represents indie distributors across Europe, appeals for assistance for the sector as its survival is threatened by the impact of COVID-19, and underscores its critical importance to the independent film business as a whole. 8 more words
via Independent Film Distribution Needs Industry Support to Survive Coronavirus (Guest Column) — Variety
Dish Network reported its worst-ever quarterly loss of subscribers, shedding 413,000 total pay-TV customers in the first three months of 2020. The satellite and over-the-top TV provider blamed the drop-off on the upheaval from the coronavirus pandemic. 22 more words
Festival Reviews 