Scotty McCreery to Plunge in Place for Special Olympics North Carolina – The American Idol winner is supporting Special Olympics North Carolina by participating in the Plunge in Place fundraiser event this month. Standing in for the annual Polar Plunge event that sees people across the country diving into freezing cold waters in the winter months, SONC is adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic by inviting participants to take the plunge individually in a pool, ice bath or some other social-distancing-friendly way. The goal is to help raise money for Special Olympics North Carolina, which provides sports training to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Scotty has started his own page to raise donations, with a goal of $10,000. “I’m happy to Plunge in Place this year and show my support of the nearly 40,000 athletes who train and compete as part of Special Olympics North Carolina. They inspire me,” the “Five More Minutes” singer says. His video will debut during Plunge Week, taking place February 21-26. SONC has currently raised more than $24,000 of its $200,000 goal. – Read more at ABC News Radio
Worcester native Michael Orland is music director, vocal coach to stars and American Idols – Every Thursday at 8 p.m. Worcester native and acclaimed pianist/music director Michael Orland talks to a former “American Idol” contestant on his new Instagram Live show “Live with Michael.” He clearly has a great attitude about it. “It’s just been so much fun, and I love it, love it, love it,” Orland said. They all know each other well. Orland was the pianist, arranger, vocal coach and associate musical director for “American idol” for 16 seasons, before stepping aside in 2018. “One of the perks of being ‘American Idol’ pianist and vocal coach is that I have developed a lifelong relationship with all of them,” Orland said of the show’s singers. Guests on “Live With Michael” so far have included Jordin Sparks, Phillip Phillips, Ruben Studdard, Kris Allen, Maddie Poppe, Katharine McPhee, Lauren Alaina and Caleb Hutchinson. Don’t worry if you missed a favorite! Check em all out HERE. – Read more at Telegram.com
Gwen Stefani Reacts After Miley Cyrus Offers to Be Her and Blake Shelton’s Wedding Singer – It all started after the 51-year-old No Doubt star saw the 28-year-old artist perform “Prisoner” on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts series. “Talented geeezzzz,” Stefani wrote. “gx.”Needless to say, Cyrus was pretty excited to receive a compliment from Stefani, writing, “When my hero’s [sic] tweet me I get horny.” She then offered to sing for the bride and groom on their big day.”ALSO @gwenstefani @blakeshelton I’ll be your wedding singer! Cyrus tweeted. “I promise to be on my best behavior. Or worst. whatever you want! It’s your special day! Cheers to loving you both almost as much as you love each other!” While it’s unclear whether Stefani will actually take Cyrus up on her offer, she seemed to appreciate the gesture, replying, “Thanks puppy gx.” – Read more at EOnline
Actress/Singer Jackie Tohn on Glow, American Idol, The Nanny & more – Jess is joined by her high school classmate: actress, singer, performer Jackie Tohn! Jackie Tohn moved to LA at 18 to pursue her Hollywood dreams after growing up on Long Island and appearing on “The Sopranos” and “The Nanny” (as a young Fran Drescher). Jackie reminisces about her experiences on those shows, plus her stints on “American Idol,” Bravo’s “Platinum Hit” and her big break as “Melrose” on Netflix’s “Glow” for three seasons. We also chat about dating Jason Mraz and hosting the new Netflix cooking competition show “Best Leftovers Ever.” – Spreaker.com
