1 Dead After Stage for Madonna Show Collapses

Madonna 'devastated' by news

(NEWSER) - The collapse of a stage where Madonna was to perform this weekend has claimed a second victim. A 32-year-old British citizen has died, CNN reports. The first casualty was a 53-year-old Frenchman who died yesterday; three more are in the hospital in Marseille, and seven were treated and released, says a hospital spokesperson. Madonna was “devastated” at the news, she said in a statement yesterday. More»

Big-name acts, up-and-comers see modest rise in attendance

(NEWSER) - Concert tours remained surprisingly strong this year despite the weak economy, with slightly more people heading out to see their favorite acts than in 2008. Gross revenue held steady at $1 billion for the period from May 1 to Sept. 1, matching earnings a year earlier. Big-name acts like Kenny Chesney, the Dave Matthews Band, Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, and Coldplay all enjoyed strong tours. More»

He's grateful injuries aren't worse

(NEWSER) - Steven Tyler’s fall from the stage last week brings an early end to Aerosmith's summer tour, Entertainment Tonight reports. “Words can't express the sadness I feel for having to cancel this tour,” Joe Perry wrote on the band’s website. Tyler also spoke out for the first time since the accident, saying “I’m plain grateful I didn’t break my neck," People adds. “I was doing the Tyler shuffle and then I zigged when I should have zagged. I slipped, and as I live on the edge, I fell off the edge!” More»

Live album distributed at all remaining 2009 dates

(NEWSER) - Coldplay will give away a free copy of its new live CD to every audience member at shows this year, BBC reports. Starting on May 15 in Florida, the band will give fans the nine-track LeftRightLeftRightLeft as a "recession-busting mark of gratitude." The album, which includes live versions of "Clocks" and "Viva la Vida," will also be made available for free download on Coldplay's website. More»

(NEWSER) - When it comes to overall revenues in 2008, all other musicians took a back seat to Madonna. Billboard notes that the top 20 earners all toured, a move that is bringing in more and more money as record sales tank. The top moneymakers:

1. Madonna: With more than $242 million, the Material Girl's 'Sticky and Sweet" tour tops the list, even though her album had middling sales.