Artist News (1/2/2013)

American Idol Season 12. Pictured (L-R): Mariah Carey, Keith Urban, Ryan Seacrest, Nicki Minaj, and Randy Jackson

Nashville’s Regal Green Hills Cinema will be among a select group of theaters in 11 states to receive a sneak peek of American Idol’s Season 12 premiere this Wednesday, Jan. 9.

After the screening, Keith Urban will participate in a live Q&A session alongside judges Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson, and Nicki Minaj with host Ryan Seacrest, which will be live streamed online.

Theater tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with confirmation on the guest list.

Idol will premier in a two-part segment on FOX, Wednesday Jan. 16-17.

 • • •

Natalie Maines

Natalie Maines announced she has finished work on her forthcoming solo album titled Mother. According to Maines, the Rock album is produced with Ben Harper and set for release on May 7.

The Pink Floyd cover and title track will be available as a single from the West of Memphis: Voices for Justice soundtrack this January 15.

All three members of the Dixie Chicks are slated to unite for two Canadan performances this year, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival on July 7, and the Craven Country Jamboree on July 13.

• • •

Jason Aldean

Jason Aldean will make his acting debut in a New Mexico-based Western titled Sweetwater, on Jan. 24 as part of the Sundance Film Festival.

Aldean performs alongside cast members Ed Harris, Jason Isaacs, Eduardo Noriega, Steven Root and Mad Men’s January Jones.

The film, directed by Logan Miller and Noah Miller, will be featured at various other times throughout the end of the festival after its premier.

Sundance is held in Park City, Utah from Jan 17-27.