Clay Aiken News Blogs

Clay Aiken Celebrates The Birthday of a Nation

Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:22 GMT

Can you imagine what it must be like to sing for a live audience of over a half a million people as well as millions watching on TV? Well, this was a reality that Clay Aiken experienced on July 4, 2004.

From the west lawn of the Capitol, Clay joined a cast of some of the country's best-known and award-winning musical artists in the PBS concert called A Capitol Fourth. Featuring patriotic classics as well as pop and country favorites, it was a night that got the audience on their feet and dancing to the beat of the fabulous music.

The concert was hosted by veteran actor and singer Barry Bostwick and, besides Clay, featured Nashville superstars Vince Gill and Amy Grant, legendary Bee Gees member Robin Gibb, and gospel legend Yolanda Adams. There was also a special 150th birthday salute to famed American composer and conductor John Philip Sousa, whose “Stars and Stripes Forever” has become a tradition on Independence Day. The soloists all joined the internationally renowned National Symphony Orchestra, directed by Erich Kunzel.

Clay started off the concert by singing The Star Spangled Banner with the symphony. According to the reviews, it was an outstanding rendition of our national anthem.

Later in the program, Barry Bostwick, who was very glowing in his praise of Clay and his relatively short musical career, introduced Clay. Measure of A Man was appropriately chosen as Clay's first feature song. He sang it with a lot of emotion and the cameras showed close-ups of our brave service men and women who were a part of the audience. It was a very moving performance. Clay closed his part of the program by singing God Bless The USA, a patriotic song that was strong and dynamic.

Heard live in stereo over National Public Radio, A Capitol Fourth was broadcast to U.S. military personnel in more than 135 countries by the American Forces Radio and Television Network.

A Capitol Fourth in 2004 was a birthday party to our nation and a July 4^th tradition much like hot dogs, watermelon and fireworks. It was a wonderful evening of musical entertainment that was topped off by an exciting display of fireworks over the Washington Monument.

The following videos show the Clay Aiken parts of the concert.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken Celebrates The Birthday of a Nation

Clay Aiken - A Valuable Asset

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:53 GMT

Eric Idle is the talented and funny mastermind who created the very famous Broadway musical Spamalot. Mr. Idle was a guest on the talk show Good Morning LA and he talked about the history of the show and about how exciting it is that the touring show is about to open in Los Angeles.

Clay Aiken, who starred in the Broadway production of Spamalot as Sir Robin was a talking point in the interview.

There was much excitement for Clay fans when they found out that Clay was going to star on Broadway at the beginning of 2008. Clay fans flocked to the theater from all over the world. And many of the fans who traveled to the city, saw the show more than once. The fans were excited and supportive and tried to see Clay before his run was over. I doubt that any Clay fans will forget Clay's last appearance when there were so many fans at the stage door in Shubert Alley that Clay took to the roof and gave his fans a kiss and a wave.

It was a surprise to many when Clay rejoined the show for a second run. The audience for the show was waning and the company was counting on Clay to bring more people and excitement to the show.

Mr. Idle commented in the interview in LA that during the second run, Clay admitted publicly that he was gay. Mr. Idle also suggested that because Clay came out, his fans stayed away from the show.

Mr. Idle is a wonderful talent and it is sad that he didn't look at the entire picture. Of course there are some fans that turned away from Clay, but there were so many other reasons that the audience was smaller.

Most of the fans of Clay had already spent their vacation money on the first run. They just did not have the finances to make another trip across the country. Many had to enjoy the second run by reading the reports of the fans that lived close by and could attend.

Twelve Broadway shows closed in January, 2009. The country was hurting and Broadway was feeling the loss. However Clay left the show with great numbers.

Clay's closing week in Spamalot was the highest grossing week since 2006.

The official numbers for Clay's last two weeks on Broadway are:

$968,563 98 - 2nd to last week

$1,068,658 101 - Week ending Jan 4th - This was Clay's last week.

$811,514 99 - Final curtain for Spamalot. Clay was not performing that week.

Numbers don't lie. One would expect the last week of a show to be sold out and have the higher sales. This was not the case for Spamalot. The last 2 weeks with Clay had better grosses than the closing week.

Clay Aiken had great reviews for his run in Spamalot and he brought many people to the theater. He was a valuable asset to the show and should be respected for what he brought to Broadway.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - A Valuable Asset

Clay Aiken - Hounding Broadway

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 01:16 GMT

Are you looking for a unique way to get an autograph from Clay Aiken? Did you miss out bidding on Sir Robin the “Broadway Bears” auction a few months ago? Well, we might have just the answer for you. You have until July 11, 2009 to make a bid on “Monty”, the hound from Spamalot. Clay Aiken signed the dog along with the entire cast of Spamalot before the show ended on January 11, 2009. And the best part, all the money goes to a wonderful charity called “Broadway Barks.”

Broadway Barks is an annual animal charity event held in New York City to promote the adoption of shelter animals. The event was founded in 1999 by Bernadette Peters and her friend Mary Tyler Moore, along with many other people who wanted to do something for animals.

The event has been held every July since 1999 in Shubert Alley, a place that is well-known to many Clay fans. The first adopt-a-thon was held on July 24, 1999, and benefited five animal welfare shelters and groups:

This year, Broadway Barks will help many of New York City's shelter animals find permanent homes. It will also help inform the residents of New York about the plight of the thousands of homeless dogs and cats in the city. The event will be held on July 11^th at 3:30 p.m. and will again be held in Shubert Alley.

Last year, the event attracted an audience of more than 7,000 theater fans, pet owners and animal lovers. Twenty-six animal shelters from the New York City area participated in the program along with many Broadway stars. The shelters will bring some of their pets to the event and hopefully, many will be adopted that afternoon.

There are a few celebrity presenters that were a part of the Spamalot family who will be participating in the program this year, including Christopher Sieber and David Hyde Pierce.

Each year, at the event, one-of-a-kind Hounds of Broadway that are signed by the casts of some of the most popular Broadway shows are auctioned off to raise money for Broadway Barks. This year, 20 hounds will be auctioned off, including the one from Spamalot with Clay's autograph. The bids will start at $150.00.

If you would like more information on the bidding process, visit Autograph Hounds . For more information on Broadway Barks, please visit them at Broadway Barks. And, if you are successful in your bidding, I hope you will share the experience with all of us.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Hounding Broadway

Clay Aiken - “Biggest Fan Gathering Ever”

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 01:18 GMT

It was late on July 1, 2004 and a thunderstorm was threatening Manhattan. This was causing lots of frowns and lots of worry. Bad weather just couldn't happen.....Not at that time.....Clay Aiken was scheduled to perform early the next morning and some of the potential audience was already waiting OUTSIDE to see their favorite singer.

Clay Aiken was performing in Bryant Park for Good Morning America's Summer Concert Series. And fortunately, the weather was fine!!

The anchors and reporters for GMA were amazed. Each one, including Diane Sawyer, announced that it was the biggest fan gathering they had ever had for one of their concerts. The crowd was enthusiastic and there were many fans that brought signs declaring their love of Clay!!

Clay's mother, Faye Parker was at the park for the concert. She was excited about the concert and the fans and graciously signed many autographs for the fans.

Before the concert started, there were many mentions of Clay and the up-coming concert. The weatherman for the show was stationed at the park. He interviewed audience members and was enthusiastic about the concert and amazed at the fans that had traveled from throughout the United States and Canada to see and hear Clay. Back in the station, the TV audience was told that Clay's first album, Measure of A Man, had gone triple platinum. The audience also saw a clip of the cute skit that was a part of Clay's visit to the Jimmy Kimmel Show.

Clay, along with his band and back-up singers performed three songs. They "rocked out" on Invisible, I Will Carry You, and I Survived You. This performance was a warm-up for Clay's solo tour that was scheduled to start later in the month.

It was an exciting morning and everything seemed to go well. Clay looked great, the music was wonderful and the staff of GMA was supportive and shocked by both Clay's wonderful concert, and the huge, supportive audience. AND, the thunderstorm didn't hit Manhattan after all!!

Relive this amazing concert by watching the great videos below. The playlist has four videos. If you put your cursor on the video screen, you can move from one video to the next by using the right and left arrows.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - “Biggest Fan Gathering Ever”

CANN Site News: Videos and Photos

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:50 GMT

SueReu has posted some new video and photos on the CANN site.

She has created a permanent place for the playlist of Clay Aiken’s June 28, 2004 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live here. It includes four videos - Two Part Interview, full performance of I Will Carry You and a snippet of Clay’s performance of Kyrie.

And you can view a new photo slide show of a 2003 photoshoot here.

Enjoy!

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

CANN Site News: Videos and Photos

Clay Aiken - Summer Time

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:54 GMT

According to the Gregorian calendar, July is the seventh month. On the Roman calendar, it was the fifth month and it was called 'Quintilis', meaning 'fifth'.

Julius Ceasar gave the month 31 days in 46 B.C. The Roman Senate named it 'Julius', in honor of Caesar.

The premier holiday of the summer season in the United States is Independence Day, commemorated on July 4th. On July 4th in 1776 the United States declared its independence from England. The day is celebrated with parades, activities, and almost invariably by fireworks.

Several other countries also celebrate similar national holidays during this month.

The Canadians celebrate their more peaceful separation from Britain on the 1st of July.

In France, a similar holiday, Bastille Day, occurs on July 14.

The Ruby is the gem for July.
The water lily is the flower for the month of July.

CLAY IN JULY

July has always been an eventful month for Clay Aiken.

Toured in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007
Helped open Wachovia Bank in NY 2003
Represented the American Film Institute Washington DC 2003
Sang in Washington DC for A Capitol Fourth 2004
Presented the Disney Teacher Award 2004
Official Fan Club opened and Clay wrote his 1^st blog 2005
ET: America's Favorite Stars #5 2006
UNICEF trip to Somalia and Kenya 2008
Survival Project for UNICEF

July 2009..........Well, nothing has been announced yet. Perhaps this will be the month we hear about Clay's professional plans.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Summer Time

Clay Aiken - “He’s a musician in every sense of the word.”

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 01:10 GMT

Monday morning, I had reason to be going through some of the Clay Aiken “history” that is stored on my computer. Yes, I am a “right-click-save” addict. I have pictures, videos, concert and TV show reviews and even some album reviews. It didn't take long before I forgot my project and started reading some of the album reviews.

I got stuck on the reviews of “A Thousand Different Ways.” I had forgotten how many wonderful things were written about that CD.

Mitch Velez at American Idol Magazine said:

This 14-track collection of memorable love songs from the past 30 years receives the classic Aiken touch of tender rearrangements, lilting melodies, and a voice from heaven that continues to grow and dazzle. Which is a good thing: For this effort Clay leapt off the cliff to cover songs by icons (Celine Dion, Elton John, Jon Bon Jovi, and Dolly Parton) and a host of former chart-toppers by familiar names among the over-35 crowd (Foreigner, Bryan Adams, Paul Young, Harry Nilsson, Richard Marx and Mister Mister).

Numerous songs stand out on this CD. Clay's rearrangement of “Everything I Do, (I Do It for You)” caught my ear because instead of trying to emulate Adams' raspy voice, he deepened the feeling with a wonderful Celtic sound. His rendition of Dion's “Because You Love Me” serves the song very well, while he gives us plenty of range in terms of both sensitivity to material and vocals with “Everytime You Go Away”, “When I See You Smile”, and “I Want to Know What Love Is”. These songs might have started out in your parents' collections, but Clay just made them your songs. Buy them now.

Shipwreck Island Studios said:

● Clay Aiken - A Thousand Different Ways (Island Preview - First Reaction):
I was privileged to listen to Clay's album today and I have to say he's got a winner on his hands. I was a bit put off by the idea of another covers album but he's pulled it off nicely. A classic track such as Bryan Adams “Everything I Do” which I felt couldn't be redone properly is completely retooled and sounds amazing. I'd say the best reinvented track has to be the Celine Dion song “Because You Love Me.” I didn't care for the original version but Clay sped up the song and added his own flavor to it making it his own. Now when I first heard about this disc the one song that stood out to me was the Bad English song “When I See You Smile.” I read some pretty harsh comments from some fans that in a nutshell said that Clay couldn't pull off this classic track. While it's not quite was redone as other songs, Clay's vocals fit perfectly and with a violin backing really allows the song to breath a bit more. To me Clay pulled this track off with no issues at all.

Honestly, I'm shocked over how good this disc turned out. 17 days to go until it's release but I'll have an album review up before its release. Everyone is in for a real treat with this release. - Tony

Tony wrote more when the album was released:

Are the new songs any good? I'll go one better, these songs are going to set the tone as to how Clay's career goes. I firmly believe that if he sticks with this soft blend of material and intertwines a few pop tracks he'll be one of the most successful singers in music history. There are very few mainstream musicians that capture me the way Clay does. He's a musician that when there's word of new material on the way people go crazy, that's a good thing. With songs like Without You & A Thousand Days Clay has opened the door to greatness. Some might be put off by this album's soft tones and if that's the case you're not following what Clay is trying to accomplish. This disc is all about not only reliving the past but reviving it. Clay has set a course toward the future and with time I think fans of all genres will notice this release for its original material as well as the reinvented cover tunes.

This is a career setting album for Clay but not his best, as his best is still to come. You could hear throughout this release how completely in love he is with the classic material and as a listener it's nice to hear an artist actually appreciate the material being put forth.

Hopefully with the right push from his label and fans this disc will see success not only in sales but in terms of overall play. I am hoping some of these songs show up on Movie/TV soundtracks.

The only thing missing was 1 more original song. I say that because I'm sure some fans were looking for a full pop album from Clay. There are hints of pop throughout the disc on the cover tracks that should keep those fans happy but I do see the point as some are looking for something that was a bit more familiar.

Overall this is a brilliantly done album that one can sit back, listen to and just drift away. Clay is much more then just some kid from a realty show, he's a musician in every sense of the word. The best is still to come and what is scary is that this disc is so good how can he possibly top it?

Bill Lamb is a music journalist specializing in pop music. He has been covering the world of pop music on the web since 1999. He said:

As it has been since American audiences were first introduced to him auditioning for American Idol, Clay Aiken's voice remains a marvelous instrument. His most successful tunes here resist temptations to over-emote and simply allow the song to shine through with his clear, resonant voice. Without the bombast of Celine Dion's performance, Diane Warren's “Because You Loved Me” reveals itself as an irresistibly romantic pop classic. A stripped down and reduced tempo version of “Here You Come Again,” originally a top 10 pop hit for Dolly Parton, reveals a melody that instantly sticks in the mind sounding like it was written for Clay Aiken….

One of the most interesting reviews was from Ken Barnes. Writing for USA Today, Ken was not afraid to ask a lot of questions that so many wanted to understand.

Overall, I just don't understand the reasoning behind this album. In the immortal words of Carl Wilson describing the Beach Boys' modest Smiley Smile album salvaged from the ruins of the ambitious Smile, it's a bunt instead of a grand slam. The label had an artist coming off a highly successful first album, in easily the best position for growth outside of Kelly Clarkson before her second album (and maybe even stronger than that, considering the intensely loyal fan base Clay had generated).

They encouraged Kelly (or agreed at Kelly's insistence) to branch out in a new direction, add more contemporary rock to the Idol pop/pap formula, write more songs, etc. — and saw a huge payoff. Kelly's sold more than 5.5 million, gets Grammy nominations and is taken seriously as a leading artist now — a considerable achievement for someone who had to overcome the “manufactured pop star” image of an Idol winner.

So why not try something similar with Clay? I don't mean he should have hired the guy from Evanescence to co-write songs and set the decibels blasting (although he does have Jon Bon Jovi, Mick Jones and former rockers Desmond Child and Aldo Nova in his songwriting credits). But a contemporary pop album, minus the hip-hop trappings Justin Timberlake adopts but a mix of up-tempo songs and ballads with a modern sound, would have given Clay a chance to catapult to the top ranks of today's hitmakers.

Instead, he releases an album with 10 covers, leaning heavily toward middle-of-the-road ballads of a certain age, plus four new songs, all of which are ballads. I could be wrong on this, but I don't hear anything on the album that a top 40 station (Kelly's main bastion of radio support) would be likely to play.

I just don't get it. I've mentioned this before, and so have some of you, but it seems as if Clay's almost being abandoned. Instead of having him record an album that could be his springboard to general superstardom (as opposed to cult idol status, however massive his cult is), it's as if he's doing a side project at a crucial juncture of his career. This album is the kind of thing he should be doing in 2014, after he has five big contemporary albums under his belt, not now. There's no need to consign Clay to the nostalgia market so early in his career. This feels like an aging, or past-his-peak, artist's album.

A Thousand Different Ways is a beautiful album. Every reviewer recognized the brilliant singing and musicianship that Clay demonstrated on the album. And many agreed with Ken Barnes. It was a questionable choice for a sophomore album. I really don't care. Clay's voice soars and I still have many of the songs on my favorite playlist.

If you have made it through all these words, you need a reward. The following video is a wonderful performance of Because You Love Me. It not only shows off Clay's wonderful voice, it shows his love and appreciation of his fans. This was filmed at his last concert stop in Orlando on 8/19/07.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - “He's a musician in every sense of the word.”

Clay Aiken - Back For More

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 01:17 GMT

During the summer of 2005, Clay Aiken performed around the country, presenting concerts on The Jukebox Tour. The tour was very popular and Clay sang songs from the 50's through the 90's. There was lots of dancing, costume changing, laughs and wonderful music.

During the tour, Clay introduced some songs that he was considering for his up-coming album. A fan favorite was an upbeat song titled, ” Back For More.”

I found this YouTube of the performance of “Back For More.” The video was taken in Vermont. Take a look…… The song is “a little bit rock and roll” and although it is rumored that Clay didn't really like the song, it was a big hit with his fans.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Back For More

Clay Aiken - TV Celebrity

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 01:03 GMT

Whoever thought they would see Clay Aiken beating up another celebrity on TV? Well, it happened, sort of, on June 28^th, 2004. That was the evening that Clay was a guest on the Jimmy Kimmel Live television show.

Clay was the featured guest and was interviewed by Jimmy. He performed in a silly skit and sang two songs.

According to fans who were in the live audience, the evening was like a huge celebration of Clay Aiken and his music. Most of the audience was made up of Clay fans and they were excited in their response to all that was happening.

The program started out with a very funny skit that showed Clay beating up Jimmy because Jimmy had said so many demeaning jokes about Clay. Clay threw Jimmy against the wall and repeatedly "kicked him" in the head. The spoof was well done and appreciated by the entire audience.

During the interview, Clay talked about his friend from home who was joining him to help out. He also recalled how he was forgetting everything....his wallet, his keys, his passport. He was hoping his friend would help him out and help him to become more organized.

There were two stories from the interview that have been repeated and remembered often. The first was about the old man in the airport who hit Clay with his cane. Clay seemed indignant and said that it really hurt.

The second story was about the food in Ireland. According to Clay, they serve "nasty animals" and that even if you order the food well-done, it still is walking all over the plate. He even complained about McDonalds and said it just wasn't the same.

After Clay's interview, he stayed on the stage while Jimmy interviewed Dylan Walsh. Poor man didn't stand a chance as most of the audience was more interested in watching Clay and his reactions than listening to Dylan's answers.

Clay ended the program by singing two songs, "I Will Carry You" and "Kyrie". The audience, both in the studio and at home, thought that Clay rocked the house. He seemed to be in great spirits and great voice. He seemed to enjoy the exuberant audience and connected with them. The audience got to hear all of Kyrie, but, unfortunately, the TV audience only saw a short clip of the song as the time ran out.

Clay and Jimmy really hit it off this night and both seemed to enjoy the interview and each other's company. It was the beginning of a great relationship.

We have put together a playlist for this program. There are 4 videos. Use the arrows on the right and left to move from one video to the next. This visit to Kimmel was a wonderful show. Enjoy!!

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - TV Celebrity

Clay Aiken -Can’t Live Without You

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 01:18 GMT

The fans are getting restless. Where is Clay Aiken?? What is he doing?? We need to hear from him!!

Perhaps this video will help ease the lonely feelings and maybe send a message to Clay that Without You……we are sad!!

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken -Can't Live Without You

Clay Aiken - Remember the Tug?

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 07:54 GMT

Do you remember the infamous tug? The first clack of the tug was wonderful to see, but it was even more fun to listen to the crowd and their reaction to Clay Aiken's newest "move."

As each concert went by, the tug got bolder and people said you could see the twinkle in Clay's eyes as he just knew what he was doing to the crowd.

The tug is important enough to warrant its own poll. Please vote for the tug you like the most. Then, maybe you can share your first encounter with "The Tug."

The first picture is horrible, but it is the "first" tug. I could not find it with his face showing. Sorry, but.......it is the first tug!!!

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Remember the Tug?

Clay Aiken-Answers to Trivia Quiz.

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 07:50 GMT

Here are the answers to the Trivia Quiz for the other day. I hope you were able to answer them all.

Clay first auditioned in Charlotte, NC. He drove to Atlanta, GA for another chance/
Clay thanked his good friend Nick for helping him to feel like his old self.
Clay had a starring role in Oklahoma in 1995 at his high school.
Clay served up burgers and fries at McDonalds in 2003.
Clay said that his idol is Mr. Rogers.
Measure of a Man was released on October 14, 2003
On American Idol 3, Clay performed the song Fantasy.
Randy Jackson said it was good luck to buy your own album the day that it is released.
Clay taught at Brentwood Elementary School.
Learning To Sing was published by Random House
At the age of 4, Clay sang “Mama, Don't let your Babies grow up to be Cowboys” on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry.
“A Clay Aiken Christmas” aired on NBC.

How did you do?

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken-Answers to Trivia Quiz.

Clay Aiken - Somalia

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 01:14 GMT

Last year, on June 25^th, Clay fans received the news that UNICEF Ambassador, Clay Aiken was in Somalia. Somalia is a country where conflict and hunger have created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.

Clay traveled to to Hargeisa, Gabiley and Baroma located in the northwest region of the country, known as the republic of Somaliland. The area is a relatively peaceful area that has declared itself independent but has not been recognized internationally.

Somalia has suffered relentless civil conflict since 1991 when the military dictator, Mohamed Siad Barre was toppled from his post. Some of the latest violence in the region has killed thousands and made over one million people homeless.

Clay, who was traveling on behalf of UNICEF, said of the region:

It's the most dangerous place for a child to be. In the lower part of the country, southern part, I feel it's a more desperate situation than any other place we've ever been.

According to UNICEF, Somalia is a country in which less than 25% of the population has access to basic health services, less than 30% attend primary school and only 29% have access to a safe water source. It is also a place where 98% of girls are circumcised and has amongst the highest maternal mortality rates in the world.

Clay visited a camp for 1500 displaced families in Hargeisa. He met a young 11 year old boy who helped support his five siblings and his blind mother. He did this by collecting stones. He was able to save enough to pay for school which he attend each afternoon.

A visit to the Somaliland Cultural and Sports Center was also a part of Clay's trip. It is an enclosed facility where the girls are able to learn about health, acquire life skills and play sports. It was rumored that Clay even played a bit of basketball with the girls.

Next on his list of visits was to the town of Boroma, where Clay saw how the town's new water system was functioning. It was financed and built by UNICEF. Clay also visited maternal and child health clinics where nutritional feeding and immunizations are available.

When Clay returned from his trip, he said:

Now that I have seen Somalia for myself, I feel it is important for the American public to remember that the Somali people have the same dreams for their children that we do. The country is one of the most desperate in the world. Fortunately, UNICEF has always been there and continues to provide the support needed to make a difference. No other organization is more capable of making such a difference than UNICEF.

In the last year since Clay visited Somalia, the situation has become so much worse. The United Nations agency for children on Wednesday accused Somali militiamen of aggression and hostility against its aid workers and said they were putting over 40,000 lives at risk.

In a recent upsurge in violence, Al Shabaab Islamist militia took over of a UNICEF compound in Jowhar. This isthe organization's biggest operational hub and is located north of the capital Mogadishu.

Since the beginning of May, over 200 people have been killed and more that 122,000 displaced by the fierce fighting in Mogadishu.

“While local authorities and UNICEF maintain cooperative relationships in many areas of Somalia, we are witnessing and experiencing an unprecedented level of aggression against humanitarian work in Jowhar, a situation that should cause a great deal of concern not only to the aid community but primarily to Somali communities,” said Hannan Sulieman, Acting UNICEF Representative to Somalia.

Highly valuable nutritional supplies meant to be distributed to 40,000 of the most vulnerable children under three years old to prevent malnutrition were looted by the militiamen, UNICEF said.

The aid agency said that its nutrition and sanitation projects risked total collapse if the Jowhar UNICEF compound remained occupied and inaccessible to UNICEF staff.

To this date, UNICEF said its compound remains occupied by militiamen and inaccessible to the UN agency's staff.

Somehow, this unacceptable and irresponsible action must be stopped. The lives of Somali children and women are at great risk. The world needs to be informed of what is going on and insist that something be done.

Unfortunately, there was no available video of Clay's trip to Somalia. Clay did two wonderful short videos while he was there. The first was an informational piece on netting for beds. The other video was about the Tap Project. Both of those videos are available on this site. Look under videos and then UNICEF.

Instead of repeating one of those videos, we are featuring a wonderful montage by SueReu that is about Clay and Somalia.

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Somalia

Clay Aiken - Misty1958

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:32 GMT

It is always sad when you lose a member of your family. And, the Claynation is a family of sorts.

Misty1958 was a huge fan of Clay Aiken. She supported Clay in any way she could….concerts, internet, contributions..she was a great fan.

One of her dear friends sent us a short obituary on this lovely lady and we would like to share it with you.

Darla Diane Farley, 50, passed away at home on June 22. Darla was a wonderful, loving wife of 29 years, one of the best mothers on the planet, and a truly unique woman.

She was born to Bill and Barbara Honaker in Huntington, W.V. on Aug. 14, 1958, and graduated from Huntington East HS. She and husband Barry married in July 1980 and moved to Lake County, where Darla worked to help open the Belk’s in Lake Square Mall before joining the Private Industry Council as a financial assistant. She committed all of her energies to her family after over a decade of service to Lake County.

Darla was a great academics, basketball, baseball, bowling, band, and cross country mom for Bryan, and was an avid Clay Aiken fan. Widely known as one of the most enthusiastic of all the Claymates, Darla attended approximately 35 concerts and galas, and was a supporter of the Bubel/Aiken Foundation, which provides autistic children opportunities for summer camps.

A great friend to many, Darla was a terrific listener and she loved to travel, cruise, and read all about Clay and her fellow Claymates on the web.

Darla is survived by husband Barry, son Bryan (Nikki), brother Greg (Sue). No services will occur, and the family requests that any remembrances be sent to the Bubel/Aiken Foundation (http://www.bubelaiken.org) or the American Cancer Society (http://www.cancer.org).

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Misty1958

Clay Aiken - Jaded Journalist

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:25 GMT

American Idol - Season 2……….. As part of the audience, we sat through lots of awful songs, singers and performers, we endured the comments of the judges, and we tried to laugh at Ryan Seacrest. But it was all worth it because we were introduced to the Real American Idol, Clay Aiken.

Behind the scenes, many crazy things were asked of the contestants. One of the silliest was the interviews with the Jaded Journalist. These interviews were taped and put on the official web site for American Idol. The best part of the interviews was the “snark” that Clay gave right back to the interviewer. That made the interviews a lot of fun.

Two of the interviews are below……….crazy guy, but Clay is great!!

Post from: Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Jaded Journalist

Clay Aiken Was Not Dropped By The Bubel/Aiken Foundation

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 12:21 GMT

Recently there was a false rumor spread about Clay Aiken's standing with his own foundation. After the new name for the foundation was prematurely released, it was falsely presumed by a few that it meant that Clay Aiken was "dropped" by the foundation. However, the presumption was irrational at best since Clay is the foundation. He runs it. If he was "dropped" by it, he would have to drop himself. In any case, RadarOnline.com posted an exclusive statement from Jerry Aiken which clarifies the situation:

Only On Radar: Clay Aiken Not Nixed By Charity
Clay Aiken is not being axed by the charity he helped co-found despite internet rumors saying so, his uncle confirms to RadarOnline.com. The former American Idol star was supposedly being ditched by The B[a]ubel Aiken Foundation which recently filed papers to change their name to The National Inclusion Project.

“There have been a lot of rumors out there but Clay is very much still involved with this organization,” Jerry Aiken- who works for the charity- said. “Both he and co-founder Diane B[a]ubel will remain on the board of directors and they are committed to the charity. We are simply changing the name to simplify things to a name that represents more of what we are about.”

“A lot of people had problems pronouncing the previous name and hopefully the new title will help us with promoting our cause further. But Clay is still very much part of our future plans too.”

According to local records the foundation has registered themselves with the North Carolina Secretary Of State’s office under the new name The National Inclusion Project, Inc. The original foundation grew out of a relationship between Aiken and B[a]ubel whose son Michael B[a]ubel suffers from autism.

It is well known by the fans that Clay has been talking about the new name change for a long time and has been very enthusiastic about the change and even asked the fans for suggestions for the new name.

Congratulations to the Foundation on its new name and may it continue to be successful in promoting inclusion and bridging the gap that exists between young people with special needs and the world around them.

It is unfortunate that RadarOnline.com misspelled the name "Bubel".

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Bubel/Aiken Foundation, The National Inclusion Project, Jerry Aiken

Clay Aiken Blogs About The Media Response To His Statements About American Idol

Sat, 23 May 2009 01:16 GMT

Clay Aiken posted a blog yesterday in response to all the controversy his previous blog about American Idol stirred up. Here is the blog:

Wow! Such influence! ha ha

Who knew I had so much influence and that my words and opinion mattered so much to so many people!?!?! HA HA HA I’ll be the first to admit that my opinion is just that, only my opinion, but for as much as some of the bloggers seem to dislike me and care so little about my thoughts, they sure can waste a lot of their space on what I say! If only many of them took the time to pay attention to important things like the US economy and the welfare of the world’s children. But… nah… I could blog about that type of stuff anytime and most wouldn’t think twice, but let me say something that they can pick and choose quotes and misinterpret me… and it’s showtime! I never assumed my opinion mattered so much! I guess I may have been wrong.

   That said, since my previous blog got dissected like a biology lab frog, i suppose I should clarify and even retract some of what I wrote.

   I am sure that some were upset by my choice of words describing my opinion of a performance I heard from Adam Lambert. I hope no one actually believed that blood truly poured forth from my ears when I heard him. I obviously meant it as a colorful statement to imply that I did not enjoy what I heard. Any performer hopes that their music will appeal to all people, but no singer realistically expects it to. God knows, I am SURE there are PLENTY of people who can’t stand to hear me sing either. I wouldn’t dream of assuming that, and I am sure that far worse things have been said about my performances than I would even venture to type here. To me, that’s fine. I don’t expect unanimous, nor even majority support for my music. But, my guess is Adam doesn’t either. I would not venture to make judgements on the personality or demeanor of anyone I don’t know, so none of what I said in my previous blog was directed as a “slam” on Adam as a person. At the same time, I wouldn’t dream of slamming him as an entertainer. He does what he does, because he enjoys it, and he obviously has many fans who enjoy it as well. If what i said in my previous blog regarding my impression of a single performance from Adam upset or offended any of his fans, I expect that the mature ones will realize that it was simply a poorly worded metaphor describing my personal tastes. The only person I would really dream of apologizing to is Adam. And the irony is, if he’s smart he couldn’t give a crap what I think of his Ring of Fire performance. As an entertainer, Adam knows that one person’s opinion of one performance really matters a little less than zero, in the grand scheme of things. He could not have gotten on Idol (nor made it as far as he did) without an immense amount of talent. He surely doesn’t need my approval to know he has a gift. At the same time, he realizes that amazing talent doesn’t always equal universal appeal. (I could NEVER have the amount of skill and talent that ballet dancers have! that’s talent! But, I don’t particularly enjoy it!) I am sure that I will have plenty of opportunities in the coming years to hear Adam sing. I imagine he’ll be around for years to come. But in the meantime, I definitely don’t want to stoop to the level of so many negative freaks on the internet… so, I do apologize to Adam for my colorful (and negative) choice of words. I hope he can forgive me. I imagine he doesn’t give a damn! :-) God knows he shouldn’t. :-)

   Now, for those of you who are able to comment on this…. lets take bets as to which bits and pieces of this blog will end up mass distributed. Be creative…. they don’t seem to care about punctuation or whether or not they use all of the words in a sentence… so, have fun…. ;-)

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, American Idol, Adam Lambert, blog

Clay Aiken Blogs About American Idol

Fri, 22 May 2009 12:02 GMT

There has been quite a stir in the news over Clay Aiken's opinion about American Idol. Normally I wouldn't post one of his private blogs, but it has already been spread all over the internet. I decided to go ahead and post it because some sites chose to quote only parts of it and I think it is important that all his comments be read in context. So here is his blog. Enjoy!

Now that it's all over, and for the record.... I couldn't be happier about the way AI ended this year. I only turn the show on once a season, and only to see what the set looks like each year. This year, I happened to turn it during the minute that Adam Lambert was singing "Ring of Fire" and, at that moment, thought my ears would bleed. Contrived, awful, and slightly frightening! I wasn't really a fan and found myself surprised whenever folks told me that they liked him. Granted, I never saw another performance (and many folks who I trust said that he was great) but I can't imagine I would have enjoyed it. Just not my cup of tea at all. To each his own. I never saw Kris sing on the show, but whether he was good or not is really relative. It's usually a matter of taste, right? But Idol is not always a matter of musical taste only. It's about the person you like. From what little I saw, Kris seemed likable. (That's not to say that Adam isn't just as likable as anyone.. maybe more so... I don't know) When Ruben and I were standing next to each other every night (many years ago) you had two equally talented, equally unlikely, equally unpolished contestants.... so it really was a matter of taste as to who was voted for. While some may argue that one of us was hyped more than the other, I don't feel that was the case. However, this year, there was an obvious bias. Not even having watched the show, I can tell you that I was WELL aware of the bias from the judges as to who should win. In my opinion, that is awfully unattractive. I don't think I am alone.

In my opinion, it all often comes down to that last night of voting. Until the finale, folks are voting for the contestant that they want to see continue. But, I believe that on that last night, the dynamic changes. No longer forced to choose one person that they want to see win, the audience can effectively vote AGAINST the person that they don't want to see win. In the case of season two this might have happened. There may have been some folks who voted for myself or Ruben because they didn't like the other of us. I was the nerdy little girly boy who some didn't want to see win, so they may have voted for Ruben. I don't know. .. But again, I feel that Ruben and I were fairly matched. We both had our detractors and negatives, but I feel we were both very worthy of being on that stage in that moment, and either of us would have been worthy of winning. The show was different then, and folks made it in seasons 1-3 because they were "real" people who happened to sing/entertain well. But, somewhere along the way, AI stopped being about real people and started being about "fame" and "gloss"; It stopped being about the talented kid-next-door and started being about who was most marketable. (I don't think anyone would have argued in 2003 that Ruben or I were extremely marketable.) So, this year it was not like 2003. This year it all came down to two contestants so extremely different and mis-matched.... one that was so obviously the "favorite"... so hyped and polished and "ready for market"; who (accurately or inaccurately) came off to many as arrogant and superior ... and one kid who no one thought had a chance and (accurately or inaccurately) came off as humble and real.

In a battle between David and Goliath, my money is on David!

I think many voters got sick of being "told who to vote for". I think many were turned off by the blatant favoritism shown towards one contestant. Therefore, on that last night, they used their votes against a contestant that they were tired of hearing about and for the contestant who had been written off. And, at the same time, I think they voted AGAINST an American Idol that has, for four years now, been more about the slick productions and polished contestants than it has been about finding the raw talent that it did in its first three seasons.

Those votes for Kris were also votes to return the show to its roots of finding "real" contestants with undiscovered talent and giving them the chance to grow and shine. They were votes that said "we're tired of seeing contestants who already seem to know it all".

Will American Idol choose to listen to the resounding and clarion call that those voters gave them?.... "Enough with the pretention. More Rubens, more Clays, more Fantasias and Tamyras and Kellys please." My faith has always been in the voters. I think they have gotten it right every year (mine included). It's now up to American Idol to decide if it will finally REALLY listen to the folks that keep it on the air.

Frankly, I'm rather puzzled at all the commotion over his statements. It is not like he is saying anything that a lot of other people haven't also stated elsewhere.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, American Idol, Adam Lambert

Clay Aiken is Not on Twitter

Thu, 14 May 2009 23:00 GMT

Clay posted a public blog making it very clear that he does not twitter. So, if you think you are following Clay Aiken on Twitter, think again. You are not.

Clay and Kanye
05/14/09

"What do Clay Aiken and Kanye West have in common?" Sounds like the start of some kind of joke.... but it isn't.

CNN just did a story on someone posing as Kanye West on Twitter. Apparently, some losers think it's funny to pretend to be other people (sometimes famous people) online. This is not old news to us, as it's been happening to me for years. But it made me realize that I have not yet informed you of something that you probably already know.

I am NOT on Twitter. (In fact, i think the legalized stalking that Twitter seems to be used for so often is repulsive) I think Twitter is the devil. I know you probably realize this already... but.. if you think you're following me on Twitter (or anywhere other than this site) it's not me.

See ya tonight.

c

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Twitter

Clay Aiken Quotes Mother Teresa

Wed, 13 May 2009 08:52 GMT

Recently, Clay Aiken posted this quote on his blog and made it public.

Love This
05/12/09

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway. In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

~Mother Teresa

Just a guess, but I suspect that this is in response to the current rumors about Clay's recent visit to the American Idol set. In reality, he took his son to go visit some friends who work there. No more... no less. It was not a ploy to try to weasel his way on the show or to meet with the contestants. I don't know why it is so important to some "journalists" to make up these stories, but it really speaks to the sad state of journalism when they make up or blindly quote such fiction. Can't believe everything you read anymore.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, American Idol, Mother Teresa

Clay Aiken in Las Vegas!

Mon, 11 May 2009 10:05 GMT

Last Saturday Clay Aiken was a special guest on the reprise of David Foster's hugely popular "David Foster and Friends" show at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas. He performed along with such stellar artists such as Heather Headley, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti and the up and coming star, Charice. There was also surprise appearances by Donny Osmond and Cher.

Clay sang a medley of Peter Cetera songs and at the end of the show joined Heather Headley and Brian McKnight in singing "America's Song". Here are some videos to give you a taste of Clay's performances:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, David Foster, Heather Headley, Brian McKnight

Clay Aiken to Appear at "David Foster and Friends"

Sat, 02 May 2009 19:27 GMT

David Foster and Friends
Location: Mandalay Bay Events Center
Date: May 9th, 2009
Price: $134.25, $81.75, $55.50

Back by popular demand, a concert celebration featuring music’s premier songwriter and producer David Foster will take place Saturday, May 9 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. The event will pay tribute to the 15-time Grammy winner and will feature Clay Aiken, Philip Bailey from the chart-topping band Earth, Wind & Fire, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti and Oprah Winfrey’s protégé, Charice. Foster also will perform some of the hits he has written or produced during his 40-year musical career. The event is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

Technorati Tags: David Foster, Clay Aiken, Mandalay Bay, Philip Bailey, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti, Charice

Just You, Clay

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 09:31 GMT

Yesterday Clay Aiken initiated a question and answer session on his official fan club message board. It was quite exciting as he spent several hours answering all kinds of questions posed by the fans. And to top it off, he posted a blog giving the fans the ultimate gift... a new song! He has freely given us the song "Just You" that he recorded for the album "A Thousand Different Ways." Here is a quote from the blog:

[...] One question in particular got me (and Jaymes) to thinking. “Clay, will you ever record … Just You?”
Well folks… truth is.. . I did. Long ago. As a matter of fact It was one of the first songs we recorded for the album A Thousand Different Ways. It was recorded before the label asked me to do the album of cover love songs and before the budget was officially approved, so I actually paid for it myself. Then, as I recall, when the decision was made to do the cover album, the label opened a budget for the album, but it did not include reimbursing me for songs I had recorded that did not fit the concept. So, here I have had this song all along that, to my knowledge, I own the only copy of. What to do with it.. what to do? Well, this evening (with some encouragement from Jaymes) I decided…. let’s just give it to them. Why not? We do have plans (which we will tell you about eventually) to be back in the studio and record in the near future, but until then… you might as well get a bit of something you haven’t been able to hear in a while. “New” music.

Now… here’s the deal. I want to give it to you because you deserve it. You’ve stuck by me and been patient for a long time. But, also, I really have to give it to you. Since I didn’t write it or produce it, I can’t sell it to you… but I hate to encourage getting music for free. You all have always been SOOOO ethical when it has come to downloading music. I know my fans are probably some of the most scrupulous in the country and I believe that you never steal music. That said… We are gonna do this on the “honor system”… Go ahead…. download the song. It’s yours. Share it with your friends. It’s free. But… I want to make it count for someone… so let’s make it count for tens of thousands of children in the US with developmental disabilities If you can’t afford anything for it.. then don’t pay… but… if you can… I encourage you… I ask of you… that you make a donation to the Bubel/Aiken Foundation for how ever much you feel the song is worth. If you want to give $1… great. If you want to give $1000… GREAT… if you can only give $.05 … that’s fine too. It’s a tough time we’re living through nowadays, and non-profits are hurting more than ever as well. BAF (which will soon be known by a different name) has had amazing success in fulfilling it’s mission, and is embarking on a long term plan to continue including kids in every aspect of life. But, it will continue to need help from all of us in order to make that possible.

Consider this track a “charity recording” …. donate whatever you can or whatever you are willing to… and accept our thanks.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/g5wkm8

The song is for you…JUST YOU… from me.

c

And you can listen to it below:

And please show your appreciation for the gift by donating to the Bubel/Aiken Foundation.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Just You

Clay Aiken Honored by the Family Equality Council

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:47 GMT

Last night the Family Equality Council honored Clay Aiken and Terry Boggis at their annual event, Night at the Tavern, with a special guest performance by Linda Eder. A number of fans were able to attend the event and bigappleforclay was kind enough to upload her video of the event.

There are photos of Clay, Linda Eder, Christine Quinn, Tom Filicia, B.D. Wong and many others at Broadway.com: Clay Aiken, Linda Eder and More Hit Tavern for Family Equality

The Family Equality Council posted a blog about last night's awards: Terry Boggis, Clay Aiken Honored at Family Equality Council’s NYC Event

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Family Equality Council, Night At The Tavern, Terry Boggis

Clay Aiken on Video: Miscellaneous Videos

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 14:48 GMT

A number of different videos with Clay Aiken, or Clay related, have popped up recently:

Ryan Janek Wolowski of "Ryan Reporting" posted this video of Clay and Tyra on the red carpet at the GLAAD Media Awards:

Here is a promo clip from America's Next Top Model:

And here is a clip from Korea where Clay's song "Sacrificial Love" was used as a song track. For a show about fishing?

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Tyra Banks, GLAAD, America's Next Top Model, Sacrificial Love

GLAAD Media Awards: Clay Aiken's Speech (video)

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:34 GMT

There is now video of Clay posted by GLAAD on their Youtube channel. Here is the video which includes the speeches by both Clay Aiken and Tyra Banks.

Also, there is video of a nice interview with both Clay and Tyra on the Insider website. It was interesting to learn from Tyra that Clay wrote his speech himself: Video: Tyra Banks' Award-Winning Night!

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Tyra Banks, GLAAD

Family Equality Council to Honor Clay Aiken

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 22:54 GMT

On Tuesday, April 21st, 2009, the Family Equality Council will be honoring Clay Aiken and Terry Boggis at their annual event Night at the Tavern. There will also be a special guest performance by Linda Eder.

Night at the Tavern, Family Equality Council’s annual New York City event, brings together LGBT parents, friends and allies to celebrate the progress we have made as a community of loving families towards full equality. In 2009, Night at the Tavern will feature a cocktail reception, a full-course seated dinner, live entertainment, a silent auction and the opportunity to mingle with old friends and meet new ones.

Click here to purchase tickets and to learn more about the event.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Terry Boggis, Family Equality Council, Linda Eder, Turbo Tagger

Clay Aiken Attends the GLAAD Media Awards (videos)

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 10:36 GMT

Last night Clay Aiken attended the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards where he presented to Tyra Banks the Excellence in Media Award. Fortunately, some fans attended the event and were generous enough to provide videos of his red carpet appearance and his presentation speech. Here are the videos!

Clay on the Red Carpet (two videos)

Clay's speech:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Tyra Banks, GLAAD

Clay Aiken on 30 Rock

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 18:44 GMT

On March 13, the New York Daily News reported that Clay Aiken, Mary J. Blige and Elvis Costello were spotted on the set of 30 Rock. And today Clay blogged to confirm that he will be appearing on the show and indicated that it will be the season finale which is scheduled to air May 14.

While we are waiting to see Clay on 30 Rock, don't forget that he will be appearing on America's Next Top Model on April 8. Clay will be participating in an acting challenge and as a guest judge. And according to an interview with TVGuide.com, Tyra said:

There's also some very special celeb appearances — Clay Aiken, a close friend of mine, will actually pose as a designer, and Ciara will be making a cameo as well. And the final runway is beyond exciting — let's just say it was the most slippery walk-off yet.

Sounds like fun!

Meanwhile, there are a couple of repeats coming up on TV:

Paula's Party (Food Network)
March 28, 2009
Clay Aiken, Dionne Warwick and Duff Goldman are guests as the host creates a blues-inspired menu that includes blue-corn-crusted bass, blue-velvet cake and a blueberry crème brûlée tart.

Scrubs - My Life In Four Cameras (Comedy Central)
March 31, 2009
After meeting a former writer for "Cheers," JD begins imagining his life as a dull sitcom in an episode of this off-the-wall medical comedy.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, 30 Rock, Mary J. Blige, Elvis Costello, Tyra Banks, America's Next Top Model, Paula's Party, Scrubs

Clay Aiken to Present at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:38 GMT

GLAAD has issued a press release announcing the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards. They feature that Clay Aiken will be presenting the Excellence in Media Award to Tyra Banks.

Tyra Banks and Suze Orman to be Honored at 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards Presented by IBM in New York
The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) announced today that Clay Aiken will present the Excellence in Media Award to Tyra Banks at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards Presented by IBM and New York presenting partner Prudential. T.R. Knight will present the Vito Russo Award to Suze Orman. Special Recognition awards will be presented to Phil Donahue and The Laramie Project, 10 Years Later - The Lasting Legacy of Matthew Shepard, a two-hour documentary broadcast on Sirius XM Radio.

Actor and singer Clay Aiken will present the Excellence in Media Award to Tyra Banks. The Excellence in Media Award is presented to media professionals who, through their work, have increased the visibility and understanding of the LGBT community. As a long-time ally of the LGBT community, Banks has shown a strong commitment to educating the public about the lives of gay and transgender people. She has consistently featured LGBT people on The Tyra Banks Show and continues to increase the visibility of the community through the diversity of her co-hosts and contestants on America's Next Top Model, including her inclusion of Isis King, the show's first transgender contestant, on the most recently completed cycle. Past recipients include Billy Crystal, Julianne Moore, Diane Sawyer, Glenn Close, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Redgrave, and Phil Donahue.

Read the entire press release here: 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Tyra Banks, GLAAD, Media Awards

Watch Out for Facebook Imposters

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 13:32 GMT

Apparently there is an imposter on Facebook pretending to be Clay Aiken. Clay blogged about it upon becoming aware of the ruse. Here is his message:

Hate to burst your bubble.
While it may be tough to hear... I have not "friended" any of y'all on Facebook.

Thanks to a few good friends, I've discovered that someone is pretending to be me on there. BIG SHOCKER! And though, I normally ignore such BS, I've learned that this person (who obviously has too much time on their hands) is being inappropriately rude with some fans, and that pisses me off a bit! ;-)

While I do have a Facebook page, I have opted to keep it pretty private and really only use it rarely to keep in touch with my "Spam-Fam", my LA peeps, and a few longtime friends from home. Just wanted to make you aware... if you've "friended" me on Facebook, you've "friended" a wacko and a poser.

If you wanna stay friends with a wacko and a poser, feel free... but I know y'all have much higher standards! ;-)

Feel free to spread the word! :-)

Be careful and watch out for imposters. There are a number of them out there!

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Facebook, imposter

Track List for New Clay Aiken Album

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:47 GMT

Amazon has posted the track list for the new album Playlist: The Very Best of Clay Aiken.

Track List

Ashes
A Thousand Days
The Way
Bridge Over Troubled Water
On My Way Here
This Is The Night
Solitaire
Here You Come Again
Measure Of A Man
The Real Me
Something About Us
Invisible
On The Wings of Love
Mary, Did You Know

And here is their product description:

Welcome to the Playlist series. We've fished through hundreds of tracks to cherry pick the perfect playlists. Not just the hits, but...the life-changing songs. The out-of-print tracks. The fan favorites everyone loves. The songs that make the artists who they are. You'll no doubt enjoy the sound of the beautifully remastered songs on this CD, unlike the compromised sound of an MP3 file.

You might also like the fact that the packages are environmentally-friendly (no plastic, 100% recycled paper). But we think the thing you'll appreciate most about this Playlist is that even though you didn't make it, you might wish you did. This package has been created with the environment in mind. All of the paperboard is 100% recycled and 100% recyclable. Of course, we would prefer that you not throw this package or CD away. We would prefer that you keep it in your collection to enjoy for many years to come! Full liner notes, photos, and more included as a PDF file on this CD. Enjoy!

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, The Very Best of Clay Aiken, playlist, track list

New Clay Aiken Album?

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:28 GMT

Hot on the heels of the news about Clay leaving RCA, we apparently have a new album! It is called Playlist: The Very Best of Clay Aiken [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED] distributed by Sony Legacy. There is no playlist yet, but it is available for pre-order and the release date is March 31, 2009.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, album, playlist, The Very Best of Clay Aiken

Clay Aiken Leaves RCA

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:41 GMT

There has been a lot of buzz lately about Clay's disappearing presence on the RCA website. The fans noticed it quite a while ago, but the gossip bloggers belatedly found out about it yesterday. And of course, put the worse possible spin on it. But now, Clay has confirmed it officially with PEOPLE:

...Clay Aiken is setting the record straight: the former American Idol has parted ways with RCA Records, Aiken's rep has confirmed exclusively to PEOPLE.

"We were unable to come to terms in a recent contract negotiation, and decided that it was best to move on," the rep, Cindi Berger, said Friday. ...

So, it is official folks. Clay has left RCA. And contrary to what some sites have reported, most fans are very happy at this turn of events. Many have felt that RCA was not supporting Clay's work as much as they could have. It is going to be interesting to see where Clay goes from here.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, RCA

News Roundup: 2/16/09

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 10:59 GMT

America's Next Top Model
It has been confirmed that Clay will be a guest judge during the next cycle of America's Next Top Model. Posted on Clay's MySpace blog:

Yes it’s true, Clay Aiken will be appearing in the upcoming season of “America’s Next Top Model.” He will participate in an acting challenge with the ladies and serve as a guest judge on the panel. The April 8 episode featuring Clay will air on the CW as part of the series' 12th cycle that kicks off Feb. 25. Check your local listings and make sure to tune in!

Interview with Jaymes Foster
In support of a fund raising event for Duke University Medical Center, Jaymes was gracious enough to talk with Jami Caskey from WRAL FM. The interview was featured by Lynda Loveland during the morning show on WRAL FM. Here is the audio for the interview:

Broadway Bears Auction
Rumor has it that the final bid on the Spamalot bear was $16,000. I will post the final numbers for the bears as soon as they are available.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, America's Next Top Model, Jaymes Foster, Lynda Loveland, Broadway Bears, Spamalot

Making a Difference

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 21:28 GMT

Clay Aiken has always been an advocate for making a difference, and he has worked hard to achieve that goal. Here are some of the projects he currently has under way:

The Broadway Bears XII
Clay has been very supportive of the Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS organization. Currently the BC/EFA will be holding their annual Broadway Bears auction on Sunday, February 15, 2009, but you can now bid on the bears on their online pre-auction which will close on Saturday, February 14 at 2:00 PM EST. The bid for the Spamalot bear, signed by Clay Aiken, stands right now at $4,600.

Sir Robin has found his grail - and "what's that?" Why, "musical theatre"! So here, finale-ready, is Sir Robin Bear, an exact replica of his Broadway counterpart, all set to be a song-and-dance man. And he does have "the loveliest [of] costumes and the best shoes," doesn't he? He wears a white piqué shirt and cream-satin, green and silver (hand-)bugle-beaded double-bow tie under his 3-piece cream suit. His teal-lined cutaway jacket is an Italian wool-gabardine. Those wide lapels are hand-beaded with 375 peridot, green and silver bugle beads. Handmade Swarovski-crystal and rhinestone buttons decorate the jacket-front and long sleeves. His matching pants have a cream satin stripe running down the outside of either leg. And his cream-satin vest has been hand-beaded in a bold green-and-white checkerboard pattern. It was created with 1,076 peridot, kelly green and silver bugle beads, and 80 peridot Swarovski-crystal rhinestones. Not to mention the matching buttons! On his feet are silver-and-white leather spectators with Swarovski-crystal rhinestones trimming the toes. See? The "best shoes"! Atop that softly curled strawberry-blond (synthetic) wig is his debonair, cream-satin top hat. The hatband, by the way, is made of (hand-painted) green and silver rhinestones. More than 30 hours of blood, sweat and love went into hand-beading the more-than 1500 beads and crystals on this tiny suit. To the more than "small percentile who enjoys a dancing gentile": they don't come any finer than Sir Robin. This bear's for you!

Together We Make A Difference
The Bubel/Aiken Foundation and The Institute on Community Integration have teamed up together with a new inclusive service learning program called Together We Make a Difference.

The two organizations have been working on developing this program for the last three years funded by a grant of $190,400 from TBAF. Their goal is to encourage all young people in service learning and to teach social and life skills to all children. Their first program is called Together We Make a Difference: An Inclusive Service Learning Curriculum for Elementary Learners With and Without Disabilities. Later on this year there will be two other programs launched.

The Dancing Wheels Company
The Dancing Wheels Company and School has just received an award in support of their school.

In the 2008/2009 season, The Dancing Wheels Company received a significant award from The Bubel/Aiken Foundation to help fulfill their mission of creating communities where ALL children can learn, live, and play together. The Dancing Wheels Company was one of over 100 applicants selected this year to promote the Foundation’s mission of inclusion.

The Dancing Wheels Company has long been recognized for its award winning, fully integrated in school assembly and residency programs across the nation. Through an artistic approach, the Company dispels myths about disability and the arts and creates an entertaining and valuable message to thousands of children with and without disabilities each year throughout America.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation, Broadway Bears, Broadway Cares, Spamalot, The Institute on Community Integration, The Dancing Wheels Company

CLAY TO APPEAR ON 'AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL'

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 07:51 GMT

Yes it’s true, Clay Aiken will be appearing in the upcoming season of “America’s Next Top Model.” He will participate in an acting challenge with the ladies and serve as a guest judge on the panel. ...

2009 Golfing For Inclusion

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:36 GMT

On January 26, 2009 Clay Aiken and PGA Professional Wayne Player hosted the 2nd Annual Golfing For Inclusion event to benefit the Bubel/Aiken Foundation.

The night before the event, Clay performed a mini-concert at the Mirasol Country Club.

The actual event started the next morning at 10 a.m. with a brunch and golf clinic taught by Wayne Player and then the golfers went on to play on the Mirasol golf course.

Then that evening was the buffet dinner, auction, speeches by the foundation founders and a performance by Clay. It is estimated that at least $60,000 was raised at the auction.

Clay, along with Ben Cohn at the keyboard, performed a selection of songs including, I Don’t Have The Heart To Hurt You, Mandy, Proud of Your Boy, This Is the Moment, and Right Here Waiting.

I Don't Have the Heart (video by Goldarngirl)

And here is an article with some quotes from Clay. Other than they reported the wrong songs and that Jaymes is not a surrogate, a nice mention for the event:

Clay Aiken is no 'Idol' on the golf course
It's ironic that Clay Aiken hosted a golf tournament for his Bubel/Aiken Foundation that helps send kids with disabilities to camp. Because the former American Idol contestant has no idea how to play.

''My game is wicked,'' Aiken admitted from the Mirasol Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens Monday. "I just tip the ball in. I don't have the patience. I think my handicap is like 7,000!''

Mini-golf is a different story.

''I could impress you with that,'' said the 30-year-old crooner. "But let's be honest: Any sport that involves windmills isn't real.''

Though Aiken has little patience to even watch Tiger Woods' game ("Unless you get a hole in one, I'm like, gotta go!''), he's passionate about the tourney's cause. Before making it big on AI, the North Carolina native was a special-ed teacher.

The flagging economy didn't hurt turnout to the $500-a-head Golfing for Inclusion event. ''I hated to ask for money now,'' said Aiken, who just wrapped a Broadway run of Spamalot. "We were worried.''

But for the price of admission, golfers got to hear him sing such classics as I Can't MakeYou Love Me, When a Man Loves a Woman and Unchained Melody.

The out-and-proud Aiken didn't have much time to hang out in South Florida. He's a dad now (Parker, with the help of surrogate mom/pal Jaymes Foster, was born in August). Though he admits Foster's the one who's getting up for nighttime feedings.

''It's a team effort, sure,'' he said. "But she's the mom and obviously doing more of the work.''

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Golfing for Inclusion, Bubel/Aiken Foundation

Clay Aiken's Message on The ONE Blog

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:59 GMT

The ONE Blog received a blog post by Clay Aiken from UNICEF stating his support for UNICEF's partnership with ONE. After talking about the good work ONE and UNICEF have done, he goes on to say:

...But I have also seen children sick and dying from lack of basic nutrition and medicines. And I cannot forget that despite UNICEF’s work, 25,000 children die every day, mostly from preventable causes. I believe that number should be “zero”– no child dying unnecessarily.

All of us can help to save children’s lives – individuals, nonprofits, corporations, and governments.

So I am asking President Barack Obama to launch a Presidential Initiative to Accelerate Child Survival. And I am asking YOU to join me, by signing a petition to the President.

ONE supporters care about helping the most vulnerable people on our planet. Please join me in telling the next President of the United States that Americans want him to make global child survival a top priority. For more information and to sign the petition, go to:
http://volunteers.unicefusa.org/activities/advocate/presidential-initiative-to.html.

-Clay Aiken, UNICEF Ambassador

Go sign the petition now!

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, ONE, UNICEF, petition

News Roundup

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 09:53 GMT

A bit quiet in Clayland right now, but there are a few news tidbits.

There was a sighting last night. Clay Aiken and a group of friends were spotted at the War Memorial Arena in Greensboro, NC attending the show "Ain't Misbehavin'" starring his good friend Ruben Studdard and fellow American Idol alumni Frenchie Davis and Trenyce Cobbins.

The official clayaiken.com website has been taken offline and redirected to Clay's clayonline.com site where his official fan club site is. Not sure what that portends, but it does make one go, "Hmmmm."

And a nice bit of fan news. A very talented fan, Maplestik, had created a few months ago a photo montage of President-elect Obama and his wife using Clay's song "Something About Us." It has been a hit on Youtube and now will be shown at one of the Inaugual Balls on January 20. How cool is that? If you haven't seen it yet, here it is below:

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Ain't Misbehavin', Ruben Studdard, Frenchie Davis, Trenyce Cobbins, Barack Obama, Something About Us

ClayAiken.com Message Boards

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 11:05 GMT

Hey There Clay Fans,As many of you have noticed, ClayAiken.com is now directing to ClayOnline.com. It is our wish to create one destination on the Internet, and create a unified experience for all Cla...

UNICEF Video: Clay Talks About The TAP Project

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:35 GMT

UNICEF has posted a new (old?) video of Clay talking about the TAP Project. You can find out more about the TAP Project at http://tapproject.org.

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, UNICEF, Tap Project, video

SHARE A HOLIDAY GREETING FROM CLAY!

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:25 GMT

Head on over HERE to send a Clay Aiken holiday greeting to your friends and family! You can also post the card to your profile on places like Facebook, MySpace, or LiveJournal. May the joy of th...

Holiday Gift Pack Giveaway!

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:57 GMT

In the spirit of giving thanks to all of the wonderful fans, we have put together 3 fun holiday gift packs from Clay. Each gift pack contains an AUTOGRAPHED copy of the "All Is Well (Songs for C...

CLAY TO APPEAR IN THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE BROADCAST!

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:48 GMT

Clay Aiken to Appear in CBS' Thanksgiving Day Parade BroadcastBy Dan Bacalzo - Theater NewsClay Aiken, currently performing in the Broadway production of Monty Python's Spamalot, will participate in t...

FAN DISCOUNT OFFER FOR SPAMALOT!

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:01 GMT

Clay returns to the scene of his triumphant Broadway debut as he reprises his role as "Sir Robin" from Sept 19, 2008 – Jan 4, 2009! The music superstar and best-selling author recently said, "Si...

CLAY RETURNS FOR AN ENCORE ENGAGEMENT IN SPAMALOT!

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:22 GMT

Clay Aiken Returns For Encore Engagement inMonty Python's SPAMALOT, The Funniest Show in the World Reprises the role of Sir Robin Beginning September 19 NEW YORK – Clay Aiken will return to ...

CONGRATULATIONS CLAY!

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:19 GMT

Raleigh, N.C. — Clay Aiken became a father Friday morning with the birth of a baby boy, his mother told WRAL's Lynda Loveland in an exclusive interview.Aiken's best friend, producer Jaymes Foster, gav...

Clay Aiken’s "On My Way Here" MusicPass Card!

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 03:46 GMT

The wait is finally over! The MusicPass Card you helped design is available to purchase on TODAY! MusicPass Cards make for great gifts and collector's items and always come with a full album download...

Clay Aiken on AOL Sessions

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 07:05 GMT

Check out Clay Aiken on AOL Sessions featuring an exclusive interview and live performances of On My Way Here, Ashes, Everything I Don't Need, and More!

Clay Aiken News Blogs

Clay Aiken Celebrates The Birthday of a Nation

Clay Aiken - A Valuable Asset

Clay Aiken - Hounding Broadway

Clay Aiken - “Biggest Fan Gathering Ever”

CANN Site News: Videos and Photos

Clay Aiken - Summer Time

Clay Aiken - “He’s a musician in every sense of the word.”

Clay Aiken - Back For More

Clay Aiken - TV Celebrity

Clay Aiken -Can’t Live Without You

Clay Aiken - Remember the Tug?

Clay Aiken-Answers to Trivia Quiz.

Clay Aiken - Somalia

Clay Aiken - Misty1958

Clay Aiken - Jaded Journalist

Clay Aiken Was Not Dropped By The Bubel/Aiken Foundation

Clay Aiken Blogs About The Media Response To His Statements About American Idol

Clay Aiken Blogs About American Idol

Clay Aiken is Not on Twitter

Clay Aiken Quotes Mother Teresa

Clay Aiken in Las Vegas!

Clay Aiken to Appear at "David Foster and Friends"

Just You, Clay

Clay Aiken Honored by the Family Equality Council

Clay Aiken on Video: Miscellaneous Videos

GLAAD Media Awards: Clay Aiken's Speech (video)

Family Equality Council to Honor Clay Aiken

Clay Aiken Attends the GLAAD Media Awards (videos)

Clay Aiken on 30 Rock

Clay Aiken to Present at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards

Watch Out for Facebook Imposters

Track List for New Clay Aiken Album

New Clay Aiken Album?

Clay Aiken Leaves RCA

News Roundup: 2/16/09

Making a Difference

CLAY TO APPEAR ON 'AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL'

2009 Golfing For Inclusion

Clay Aiken's Message on The ONE Blog

News Roundup

ClayAiken.com Message Boards

UNICEF Video: Clay Talks About The TAP Project

SHARE A HOLIDAY GREETING FROM CLAY!

Holiday Gift Pack Giveaway!

CLAY TO APPEAR IN THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE BROADCAST!

FAN DISCOUNT OFFER FOR SPAMALOT!

CLAY RETURNS FOR AN ENCORE ENGAGEMENT IN SPAMALOT!

CONGRATULATIONS CLAY!

Clay Aiken&rsquo;s &quot;On My Way Here&quot; MusicPass Card!

Clay Aiken on AOL Sessions

Clay Aiken’s "On My Way Here" MusicPass Card!