October 29, 1999-Spice Girls FOREVER!; Melanie C LIVE Webcast; The Results Are IN...; Spice WHO? Left-Eye Isn't Too Keen on Northern Star

The BBC reports that Emma Bunton, Baby Spice, was quoted as telling Company Magazine in an interview, "I reckon there will always be a Spice Girls album. It's our priority. We'll probably be singing Wannabe on our Zimmer frames." Emma, as the magazine claims, is the 4th most wealthy woman under 30 in the UK. But Emma doesn't take that for grants, she agrees that she has been very lucky. "I've never forgotten that if things had gone differently I could just as easily be stacking shelves in Sainsbury's," she explained. But Emma reveals that she can always rely on her family in case she starts to forget that, "To them I am just Em. When I go home Mum still says stuff like, `your room's a mess'." But even with solo projects and a release single coming out with Tin Tin on the 1st of November, Emma is still a Spice Girl.

You can check Melanie C LIVE for her final show of the first leg of her Northern Star Promotional Tour even if you don't have tickets for her show in the Astoria club in London. A live web cast will allow all her fans the chance to see her strut her stuff and prove that this Spice has talent. The web cast will begin 8:45 PM on Monday, November 1st (oddly enough the start of the Spice Battle to the top of the charts for Emma and Geri). Mel has been keeping a busy schedule (4 continents, 11 countries, and 13 cities in under 5 weeks!) and was able to hit # 10 on the album charts in the UK following up her # 4 debut single "Goin' Down." .0

Melanie was quoted as saying: "One of the best things about being in pop is being able to establish a personal connection with your fans around the world. So I'm dead chuffed that all my fans will be able to join in the fun at the Astoria via my web cast. I also think it's really important that kids get to use computers, and if this encourages a single person to go online for the first time I'll be really happy."

Supposedly you can click here on Monday to watch the concert, but it would probably be better to check out Mel's home page just in case its moved around. Won't be around Monday?!? Don't worry Mel's site will carry the concert a few weeks so you can view when its most convenient with you...plus you can always watch it again.

The polls are closed, they've been tallied up, and its official! Dotmusic's poll about which Spice Girl (or ex) would top the charts on November 8th when the results of the charts for the week of November 1st are posted. And boy was it close! However Geri Halliwell's "Lift Me Up" overtook Emma Baby Spice Bunton's cover of "What I Am" by 6%. Emma came close with 47% of the votes, but Geri topped her with 53%. Of course, this of no means of how the charts might actually end up, but just who would go out and support that artist, Dotmusic has been right in the past...but you never know with these things. The battle beings on November 1st when both singles are released and you can count on SOTW to bring you the latest results...but its still anyone's game.

Dotmusic, a never ending source of polls, wants Spice fans to know which song Victoria Beckham, Posh Spice, should cover for a solo single (considering she's the only one without one to her record). You have 3 choices: Shirley Bassey's classy track 'Diamonds Are Forever,' DJ Jurgen feat Alice Deejay 'Better Off Alone' (hmmm...can we imagine the tabloids with this one if she ever did do that track)? & Boyzone's own Ronan Keating (former duet partner with Emma) 'When You Say Nothing At All.' The choice is yours and yours alone...so go to it by clicking here!

Apparently the Spice Girls new tracks produced by superstar Rodney Jerkins, responsible for hits like Brandy and Monica's "The Boy Is Mine," Jennifer Lopez's "If You Had My Love," and Whitney Houston's "My Love Is Your Love" are getting approval from insiders in the music industry...mainly because no one can believe its actually them. Rodney produced three tracks with the girls which are slated to appear on the forthcoming third untitled album. Rodney commented a but about his work with them and revealed that the album "should" show up in the second quarter of 2000. He also suggested that the new album will have a revolutionary sound to it, much different from the Spices' previous Spice and Spiceworld.

Rodney was quoted as saying, "I did three songs with them, and everybody I've been playing them for can't believe it's the Spice Girls. I like to create for the artist on the spot. I knew I had to do the Spice Girls 10 months beforehand, but I didn't write one single lyric or do one track until I got to London. We started working on the songs the day I met them, because I wanted to get a vibe from them. We did the three songs in five days." However, even with this in mind, he admitted that the tracks, which only took five days to record, may be a shock to some die Spice fans. Jerkins had previously stated that it would have an "urban, danceable" feel to it. He also added, "It will still have a pop appeal, but the beats will be a little harder."

A lot of TLC and Spice fans rejoiced when Left-Eye Lisa Lopes made a special guest rap on Mel's "Never Be The Same Again" track. Fans got a bigger kick out of the rumor that TLC might possibly collaborate with the Spice Girls on a track. However (though it is the media...and they do distort details) apparently Left-Eye wasn't too keen about the entire relationship with Melanie C including her thoughts on girl groups, a joint photography shoot, compensation for that special rap, and surprisingly Geri Halliwell.

"At first I didn't want to do it, the Spice Girls brought girl groups back, but TLC invented them, and if it wasn't for us I strongly doubt the Spice Girls would be around."

"Well, I don't really want to say, because it will make Melanie sound desperate to snatch me up, but a very high sum of cash was involved."

Possibility of TLC working with the Spice Girls...and what about Geri Halliwell...

"Not true as far as I'm concerned, but I would really enjoy working with Geri Halliwell, I love her solo stuff, although I liked her hair better when she was Ginger!"

What about that photo shoot you did with Melanie...[see pic above. Special thanks to Spice Pix!]

"Odd. I thought her idea sounded really skanky at first, but I thought about it for a little while, and I decided I would go for it. The newspaper wearing was Melanie's idea, I hated it, but Melanie insisted."

While fans might be disappointed with the lack of love between the two artists, it does coincide with T-Boz (also of TLC)'s comments pertaining to about the same. It also does explain why Left-Eye would have teamed up with Mel C out of the blue, but you never know, maybe Left-Eye was taken out of context...she might even make an appearance or do some live audio of her rap when Mel C returns to do another tour of the US.

October 27, 1999-Geri Halliwell Weighs in on Spice Wars; Melanie C's Northern Star to Rise; Spice Girls Considered "Out" by UK Teens & MORE!

Geri Halliwell Weighs in on Spice Wars, Charts a # 1 Spot; Melanie C's Northern Star to Rise; Mel's Real Life "Angels;" Plus Info on the Promotional Radio Singles of "What I Am" and "Northern Star;" Spice Girls Considered "Out" by UK Teens

Ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, ever the diplomat, made an appearance on TFI Friday to help promote her autobiography, "If Only." Geri was proud to have her book top the book charts and even happier that the proceeds would go to charity for Breast Cancer Research, a matter extremely close to her. However, Chris Evans, ever the controversial and tabloid-headline-happy host of TFI, asked Geri about her thoughts on the upcoming all out Spice Battle on November 1st, when Geri's "Lift Me Up" will face up against former bandmate Emma Bunton and Tin Tin Out's cover of "What I Am" in a race to the top of the charts. Besides showing a clip of the "kinda like a mini movie" music video, she was asked the inevitable question about whether it was a coincidence about the same release dates, Geri answered, "Do you know what, I mean, I think at the end of the day, I, uh, planned to have that, you know, single out long ago. I don't know why she chose to put it on the same day, but at the end of the day, there's always going to be, you know, other artists out. And I w---you know, its really a hard industry to be inside and to wish to Emma the best of luck in it all, I really do." Chris wanting to add more tension (and perhaps a few tabloid headlines), asked Geri to pick which single she thought would hit # 1. Geri responded, "I, I uh, I'd like to think you know I wrote my own song and I'm really proud of it and I think its a great...although the song that she's covered is really fantastic and she's done a great job." Chris got a rise out of the normally reserved Geri saying that "but you have pointed out that it is a cover though." Geri shouted playfully in response, "Don't put words in my mouth, young man. Stop it!" In addition to doing another "Party Piece" duet with Worthers, the cue card holder of TFI Friday (she also did that duet with Jay Leno on the Tonight Show). However, Geri raised eye brows even more after having an arm wrestling match with teeny-bopper Kylie Minogue over which girl had a better book. This match resulted in a kiss that apparently stopped the show (although the show was long over), apparently the "snog" caused so much excitement, it was pictured in newspapers and will actually be featured on Channel 4 (UK) this week. Dotmusic really, really, wants to know who YOU think will top the week of November 1st's charts! So you can pick either Emma or Geri right here. Please note that Trixie Firecracker provided the video for download, which I merely transcribed the interview. If you're a Geri fan, that site will fulfill all your needs, its arguably the best Geri Halliwell site on the internet, so check it out!

Melanie C. entered the Top 10 Album Charts in tenth place in the UK according to Dotmusic this week with her debut solo album release of "Northern Star." While pop critics have made accusations that Melanie C's career as a solo artist will be "Goin' Down" as a result of a mixed UK live review, a single only hitting # 4, and now being beaten by girl group offspring acts like B*Witched who placed higher on the charts. However, "Goin' Down" was a poor representation of the "Northern Star" album as a whole, and with the November 15th release of the title track as a single. The video (which you can check out at the main page) has already been shot, and if the past slow ballads of the Spice Girls are any indication of success, Melanie C's star is almost sure to rise.

Melanie C has explained the reasoning and symbolism behind her "Angel" tattoo in the Spices' upcoming "Forever Spice" book. The UK Tabloid, the SUN, recently took that excerpt from the book concerning the origins about her "Angel" tattoo. Melanie C was on tour in France when both her Step-Grandmother and Grandfather passed away from cancer and due to a tight schedule, Mel was forced to stick to her career rather than be with her family during such a tough time. The experience was the inspiration behind her "Angel" tattoo. But she explained further that the loss was actually a wide awakening for her, as well as growth process for her as an artist on stage. Mel C also said that the other Spice Girls were her support beam during that difficult ordeal, looking after her. The excerpts below were taken from quotations from the article. Mel commented also on how at times, it seems that ex-Spice Girl, Geri Halliwell, wasn't even a part of the band as a result of the work as a quartet the remaining girls have completed: "Sometimes I feel like I cannot remember what it was like when she was here. It's as if she has been erased because we've all done so much since."

"Both my grandfather and step-gran died from cancer while I was in France. It was very hard for me, because I couldn't be with my family. Sometimes it could be quite magical, because, even though I'd be on stage with a whole host of other people, I was still able to feel a kind of solitude up there. You can be singing a little verse in front of tens of thousands of people, but you can still feel alone. I knew my grandad loved Viva Forever and sometimes, when we sang it on stage, I felt he was there and I was singing it just for him. It was awful to be away from home but luckily the girls were there. They really looked after me. I always feel like they're my guardian angels looking after me, so I wanted something to signify that I still think about them."

For some promotional news concerning the "What I Am," "Northern Star," and "Lift Me Up" CD Singles for Radio Stations, SOTW was able to learn that the Northern Star CD Promo single has already been shipped to radio stations with a 4:08 version of the track plus a call-out hook. So far, the single has been gaining airplay as well as videoplay, so promotional power might be in Mel C's future as well as a higher chart placements. In regard to the Chart Battle on November 1st, both Emma and Geri's CD Promo Singles have been placed in heavy rotation for next week. Both are single track cds. "Lift Me Up" is in a black/gold picture slip case with a 3:50 version of the track. And "What I Am" CD features the "What I Am (Radio Edit)," which has a 3:56 version.

UK's Dotmusic recently conducted a survey whose target group was a UK group of teenager. For some unknown reason, the panel of teens predicted that Robbie Williams will still be topping the charts of the new millennium beating out the competition consisting of UK faves: the Spice Girls, Steps, Boyzone, 5ive, and Elton John. To baffle Spice fans furthermore, the same panel voted that US group Destiny's Child (check the main page for the Real Audio G2s of "Bills, Bills, Bills" and "Bug A Boo" coming shortly, so you can judge for yourself.) are the "most trendy pop band" at the moment, and the Spice Girls are officially considered "out."

A panel selected of myself as well as a few Spice fans decided that the panel of UK teens were obviously under the influence of some illegal substance when making those decisions as indicated by some other crazy predictions of hologram CDs, which bring pop stars into the home, drive-through music stores to pick up music on the go, and miniature mini-disc systems to fit on the wrist will all be the rage in addition to the revival of reggae music in pop culture.

October 23, 1999-C3 Update for Melanie C's Northern Star Video Clip & Tickets for UK Fans To Check Out Emma & Tin Tin Out Live on the Pepsi Show

C3, the official Spice Girls UK page made some updates last night. Unfortunately, I only caught the Northern Star video post and not the main page message update. So here it is:

"Hi Everyone, Emma here, I will be performing my new song, "What I Am" at the Pepsi Chart with Tin Tin Out on Tuesday evening, 26th October @ The Sound Republic, Leicester Square. The Pepsi Chart are offering FREE tickets! So call their hotline number NOW 0171 287 0045 and speak to either Carla or Rachel! You must be 18 years or older and this offer is only open to UK fans. Hope to see you there!"

To view Melanie C's Video Clip of Northern Star just click on the pic below! It is in .mov form, so if you just want to watch it, simply click on the pic and it should open right up and start loading. If however you want to save it, click on the right button on your mouse here and select "SAVE TARGET AS" and select your drive and destination and you're all set! If you want to just open it, it will be placed in your temp internet file, so when you clean your cache, it will be deleted.

October 22, 1999-SOTW IF ONLY EXCLUSIVE! Geri Halliwell ALL OUT INTERVIEW (From Trixie Firecracker)!; Victoria Goes "Solo"; Emma's Pokemon Track Update

Geri Halliwell stopped by BBC Radio 1 for a lengthy interview as well as taking a few "big responsibilities" by detailing the news ("news is bad and weather is rainy"), answering some questions, and explaining her "new age" new single, "Lift Me Up." Besides radio premiering one of her b-sides to "Lift Me Up," a cover "Live & Let Die," Geri answered some hard-hitting questions about her new solo career, her autobiography, and of course, her reaction to Melanie C's comments as well as Victoria's solo career (story below). Trixie Firecracker, arguably the internet's # 1 Geri Halliwell site, is 100% responsible this entire interview, which I only transcribed, the interview belongs to her. If you wish to download it in real audio format or the premiere and full audio of "Live & Let Die," you can check out the interview audio section of her site by clicking on the link above. Geri, upon being questioned about her reaction to Melanie C's allegations, answered "Um...its really difficult to, to be objective about it. Because, you know, I want people, especially people that know me, to, you know, support me in what I do." When the interviewer attacked that Melanie C wasn't really being supportive, Geri asserted that, "But I just, you know, I...Well, you know, I'd like to think I'm hoping... give everyone the benefit of the doubt. And just think [that] she didn't mean it and maybe she was just misquoted. I really, you know, I've got to think that." But what if she meant it? Geri calmly responded "Well then everyone's allowed to have their own opinion, you know she's a rock chick and I suppose she doesn't like pop music anymore, I don't know (laughing)." Ironically, the "Cotton Wool" comments Melanie C made in various interviews followed a letter sent by Geri wishing Mel the best of luck on her solo career. Geri also revealed that she hasn't talked to her former bandmates since "God, a long, long time ago." In addition to giving her former group breathing room and wishing them the best of luck as a four-piece, Geri was very excited for Victoria on her new solo career (story below). "I'm so pleased for her, she so deserves..." The interviewer interrupted whether Geri believed it was a good idea. Not surprisingly, Geri backed her friend, "Whether its a good idea or not, I think she deserves to do something...because, you know, I just think, good luck to her. I know in her heart she always wanted to do something like that. So good luck to her." Geri thanked her fans, "the best fans in the world" for all their support. Geri also clarified that her other b-side song (to "Lift Me Up") is not called "Love Me Slowly" as SOTW as previously reported, but rather a "kind of R&B type track called 'Slowly.'" Sadly, Geri also announced that the James Bond 007 Concert, which Halliwell was scheduled to sing her version of "Live & Let Die" has been postponed until next year. Well even though Geri may not have the legs as she admitted, she still believes it would be fun to be a Bond Girl. Geri might not be a Bond Girl, but she'll have to get into a winner takes all match (at least by media standards) to the top of the charts with Baby Spice, Emma Bunton, with Tin Tin Out on November 1st, when Geri's "Lift Me Up" clashes with Emma & Tin Tin Out's "What I Am." Strangely, no one asked about Geri's opinion about the Spice War.

SOTW Newsletter Subscribers should have received an exclusive excerpt from Geri Halliwell's "If Only" Autobiography, previously not posted. If you are not on the SOTW Newsletter list you may subscribe to receive it, just simply click on this link here and type "join" in the subject box. This excerpt WILL be published on SOTW's Site, but that will not be until a later date, so if you're interested in exclusive news, pictures, and other multimedia, please subscribe because this site is mostly for storing audio and video tracks and pictures. SOTW Newsletter subscribers receive info BEFORE it is posted at the site.

Melanies C & G and Emma might be rocking the SpiceWorld with solo careers, but apparently Victoria Beckham is not far behind. Melanie C told Smash Hits Magazine in an interview that "Tor" will be heading off to do some more writing in Dublin, following some joint-writing with Elliot Kennedy who teamed up with the Spice Girls on their debut album "Spice." Kennedy is of "Say You'll Be There" fame as well as Melanie C's duet with Bryan Adams on "When You're Gone.""

While Posh fans may be rejoicing, Victoria's spokeswoman denied any such claims, but didn't confirm that it wasn't a future possibility, "She's in the studio, but it's not necessarily for solo stuff. She's writing tracks but there's no solo single or tour planned from Victoria's point of view...One thing she's very keen on is an acting career. She's had a lot of scripts but there is nothing as yet. She wants to do something quite specific. All the Spice Girls have been in studios doing solo things at some stage but they have either gone onto the albums or been dropped." But fans of Victoria need not fret, while there are no specific plans in the works, if something "amazing" does evolve out of the writing and/or recording in the studio, it could very well be released. Whether Victoria pursues a career out as a solo artist or actress, she'll be the last Spice Girl to go solo.

Victoria also has more reason to celebrate: according to Men's lifestyle magazine ZM asked readers to choose from the descriptions of women's characters and choosing the most suitable phrase of their ideal woman (that person renamed nameless). After netting 44% of the votes, Victoria, the "family-orientated football lover who dresses fashionably, is house-proud and an bit moody" beat out her closest competitor, TV Star and "Rear of the Year" winner, Denise Van Outen. While the Spice Girls are known to rank high in such charts, what's ironic is that the names of the candidates weren't revealed until AFTER the votes had been counted. Congratulations to Victoria!

Emma, Baby Spice, Bunton will be releasing another solo endeavor on the Pokemon Soundtrack due out on November 9th, the week after the US release of "Northern Star." Emma will join Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, 'N Sync, B*Witched, 98 Degrees, Billie, Vitamin C, and Blessed Union of Souls on what I believe is an all-star pop soundtrack (almost guaranteed to do well in US charts). The Pokemon Soundtrack Site was just updated TODAY! and Emma is Track # 8 with "(Hey You) Free Up Your Mind." You can check out the entire soundtrack listing on that page. Emma's Solo name was changed to "Emma Bunton p/k/a Baby Spice." Atlantic Records, publishers of the soundtrack, also added an official site for the Pokemon Movie, which you can check out by clicking here. As of yet, neither Pokemon Movie Soundtrack site has posted clips of the tracks, but it is standard protocol to post clips for promotion, so please keep checking back. You can be sure that SOTW will definetly post notice when, if, the track or clip is posted and if possible will upload it to SOTW's server so you can directly download. According to Atlantic Records, the soundtrack is "further highlighted by 'Free Up Your Mind,' the debut solo track from Emma bunton p/k/a/ Baby Spice." Even though Atlantic Records mislabeled the track, the comment should be taken as a great compliment all things considering. Pokemon fans need not fret, the movie will be released that Friday (November 12th), and the soundtrack will include a certificate for an "exclusive, highly collectable Pokemon Trading Game promotional card by Wizards Of The Coast...while supplies last. Shipping and handling are not included by the "free" certificate." The soundtrack (on Enhanced CD) will feature some enhanced video clips from the movie and the enhanced CD-single (also available un-enhanced on cassette) "Don't Say You Love Me" from M2M will be released on October 26th featuring the Trailer of the Pokemon Movie. To be honest, I have little comprehension of "Pokemon" but I hope I've been able to point out a few details about the soundtrack and CD-single, so I can't answer anything Pokemon-related besides the other tracks on the soundtrack. No word yet on whether Emma's single will be released independently or put on the M2M single, or even if it will be on Emma's solo album. However, it will be something to look forward to. A promotional party has been planned by the WB on November 9th, the soundtrack's release date, in the Warner Bros. Studio Store on NYC's Fifth Avenue from 3:00PM to 5:00PM that will feature several appearances by artists on the soundtrack. Of course, Emma Bunton's presence has not been confirmed or denied, but it would be the perfect time to promote a solo career in the US for her on MTV's TRL or some other equivalency, so keep your fingers crossed...

October 18, 1999-Spice Girls To Tour US Next Summer; Melanie C Discusses New "Mature" Spice Girls Album; Melanie C Will Tour US Extensively in February '00

The Spice Girls may be on pursuit of solo careers, but they're ready to follow up and give the fans something they really, really want. Since the Spice Girls released "Spice" in 1996 and "SpiceWorld" in 1997, released a movie, and conquered the SpiceWorld on tour, they've been expanding their horizons. Melanie G is working on a new album and hosting a few shows, Emma's been doing a little solo work as well plus hosting her very own video show as a presenter, Victoria has been hosting charities and raising awareness, while the "Northern Star" herself, Melanie C, has been touring for her brand new album, which was officially released today (October 18th) in Canada and the UK.

This August, the Spice Girls returned to London studio to begin writing and recording their forthcoming third album. One highly anticipated by many Spice fans left wondering when the Spice Girls, half married and Ginger-less, would reunite to release new material.

The Spice Girls are planning to pack a big punch. This time out, the Spices are enlisting the production power of Rodney Jerkins who holds a few # 1 singles to his resume with Jennifer Lopez and Brandy & Monica. Jerkins' popularity has been certainly skyrocketed. After working with the girls, he's set to work with Whitney Houston and Will Smith among others. But Melanie C told MTV that the Spice Girls aren't about to just settle for Jerkins. After fantastic work doing Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation, the Spice Girls requested Jam & Lewis.

Melanie C let fans down expecting an album in the near future since Virgin has not set a certain release date as of yet. But the Spice Girls have some upcoming live shows in December to premiere new material. But Melanie C let fans know that she is planning an extensive US tour for February. Which means that other states will have the pleasure of seeing the Northern Star rise to fame with hopefully a very successful album in the US. But Spice Girls fans fear not...Melanie C revealed more importantly that after she rejoins her bandmates, the Spice Girls WILL do a U.S. Tour next Summer. So you can catch the Spices once again live in the flesh.

You can listen to Melanie C in streaming real audio with video from MTV's site by clicking on the picture above, any of her quotations, or by clicking here.

While many fans in the United Kingdom and Canada can herald the release of Melanie C's first endeavors as a solo artist on Monday, October 18th. US fans will have to wait until Tuesday, November 2nd, when "Northern Star" is released domestically in the United States. Melanie C was one step ahead promotion and has been using her home site to promote her forthcoming album. Melanie C initially sent out to premiere each track from her album a day, but due to space and time, Mel decided to speed it up and post all twelve album tracks on her site. Mel has posted the tracks in .mov form, so you'll need a movie player in order to listen. Personally recommended is Quicktime Player. Some people have reportedly been receiving error messages and have not been able to download the tracks. I was able to download all twelve. Unfortunately, "Go!" the first track is only a 30-second clip, but you have to be a bit surprised when you get a new album. But be sure to give each track a listen, its certainly well worth the download time.

The WB officially launched its trailer this week online for the upcoming Pokemon: The First Movie to be released on November 12th. The soundtrack will be released on Atlantic Records on the 9th (of November) in the US. The first single is slated to be M2M's "Don't Say You Love Me." No word yet on whether Emma's "(Hey You) Free Up Your Mind" will be a b-side or its own independent single. Pokemon: The First Movie even has its own site. To check out the Soundtrack section of the site simply by clicking right here. At publishing time, there was only the "Coming Soon" posting, but you can bet that there'll be tracklistings and clips forthcoming. So keep checking back!

October 14, 1999-"If Only" Geri Halliwell Wasn't So Controversial; Melanie G Attacking HIV, Melanie C Defends Victoria While On Tour; Emma Pokemon Track Disclosed

"In this world we all chase dreams, we all say if only we could win the lottery, were a size smaller or have the perfect husband or wife, that is what this is about."

Geri Halliwell may have claimed that her autobiography, "If Only," is an 'emotional journey,' last night in Glasgow on a promotional tour, but the Christian Institute and family campaigners have attacked that Geri is a "poor role model" for some of the content, which includes some topless pictures that Geri had taken while 'working' as a page 3 model. Colin Heart, director of the Christian Institute told the Daily Mail: "Her doing this will have an influence on young people, glamorizing a sexually loose lifestyle." When asked by reporters if Geri herself thought that topless images were appropriate to the book's young audience, Geri answered, "I think for people 12 years and up it's suitable. Everyone has to realize what young people know."

Geri asserts that the book contains far more important matters, with an honest portrayal of her struggle with the eating disorder bulimia and her breast cancer scare. The book details the singer's rise from a topless model to life after being in one of the biggest British Invasions since the Beatles. Geri describes her book as more of a "21st century folk tale." But it's also "a real honest, emotional story." Halliwell hopes that "women whether Spice Girl fans or other women and young girls will identify with this book,"

It seems that commercial success as an author is not one of the dreams Halliwell is chasing. "If this book sells just five copies and five people get enjoyment from it that is what it is all about, that is the point." Even with her former group's "Forever Spice" book due out next month, Halliwell admits that her book does cover the friction and stresses which initially formed her decision to leave the Spice Girls. "It's in the book, you can read it for yourselves," she disclosed. But Geri hopes that if any good can come of the book besides the readers' enjoyment, its the royalties from all the sales going to Breast Cancer Care, one that Geri has supported readily since her own scare.

Scary Spice Melanie Gulzar announced at the London launch, that she is not only a patron of the Positive Attitudes campaign, but she is also leading a campaign to prevent babies being infected with the HIV virus during pregnancy. Melanie G, will appear on the charity posters by Blackliners. This promotion will highlight HIV problems among the black community.

Melanie G is not about to settle for being a poster pin-up either: Mel will also promote the Positive Attitudes campaign, which educates women concerning the mother-to-baby transmission of HIV. Positive Attitudes hopes that Mel's success as a solo artist and Spice Girl will raise awareness and decrease the growing number of HIV babies.

In fact approximately 50 babies a year are born in the UK to HIV-positive mothers and about 40 of them are of African origin. Since 1990 the number of HIV-positive women who give birth in London has quadrupled. Measures can be taken during pregnancy and childbirth to reduce the chances of passing on the virus, but the biggest concern is that most HIV positive mothers are unaware they are infected.

Melanie also joins Posh Spice in taking awareness of serious issues, especially relevant in the United Kingdom. Victoria Beckham was recently the appointed patron of the Meningitis Research Foundation. Victoria took awareness of the condition after reading reports and fearing scares with son, Brooklyn. Ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell also has served several international missions as a UN Goodwill Ambassador and headed up the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign.

Melanie C may be on tour promoting her new album, "Northern Star" due out on the 18th in the UK and Canada, and in America on November 2nd, but she's still got some Spice and is supporting fellow Spice Girl, Victoria Beckham against claims that Victoria is "too thin." In an interview with Access Hollywood Mel exclaimed: "It freaks me out! [on the entire issue about People weekly asking is Victoria "too thin?"] Victoria is very healthy. There's nothing wrong with her. Some people are naturally thin...and some people aren't. So its something that needs to be tackled very carefully." If you happened to miss the segment, you can watch it in streaming audio at The Way of Spice!

In addition to promoting her new single, "What I Am" with Tin Tin Out, which is to compete against ex-Spice Girl, Geri Halliwell, and hosting her very own video show on Vh1 UK appropriately titled "Emma," Emma has been working in earnest on a few solo tracks. SOTW reported earlier that Melanie C had revealed Emma would release a track to the Pokemon soundtrack, which is being released on November 9th in the US (the week after Mel C makes her US release "Northern Star" available). While the movie (out November 12) has yet to run its trailer or go into promotional overdrive, according to various sources and reports by radio station Kiss, Emma Bunton's track is called "Hey You (Free Up Your Mind)." Emma's solo name is apparently "EMMA, Baby Spice," while Mel G will be known as "Melanie G. aka Scary Spice" and Mel C uses, "Melanie C." Emma will join Billie, Christina Aguilera, 98 Degrees, Britney Spears, B*Witched, and Vitamin C, on what just might be the next big pop soundtrack. The promotional CD should be shipped around the last week of September, so there's chances that the entire soundtrack will premiere two weeks before its release on radio, so keep your ears peeled.

October 11, 1999-Melanie C Mania! Geri and Baby Spice To Rumble in Chart Battle, & David and Victoria Too Sexy For Third?

While Melanie C may be "Goin' Down" on the charts entering in at a respectable # 4, then falling to a low # 18 position this week according to Dotmusic, she certainly was movin' on up during her promotional tour in America. Audiences in New York got a taste of Spice as Mel took over Irving Plaza. Melanie C made some pit stops in Toronto hosting an hour of MuchMusic's I&I [pic below] as well as another concert there (October 6th) and also in LA (October 7th). Melanie proved that the fans are still there and are willing to support her. In case you can't wait to hear the Northern Star album (American release November 2nd, Canada/UK October 18th) or if you didn't get to the concert and didn't get all that you really, really wanted. If you click on the link www.virtuallycanadian.com you can directly listen to streaming (non-downloadable audio) real audio (need real player g2). Here's the set list:

There are also some pretty intense Melanie C live shots at SGC. So you should really check them out, things will Never Be The Same Again! Because everyone is really hyped up about the release of Northern Star and can't get enough of Melanie C, I've uploaded her 2 UK-CD single set from the UK (with the exception of the video) below and also in SOTW's Multimedia Page, which will be posted shortly. I Turn To You and really, really want you to give 'em a listen. Both CD 1 and CD 2 feature "Ga Ga" (Why on earth didn't she just make it a double A-side, she could have hit # 1!!! If That Were Me, I definetly would have.) as well as a version of "Goin' Down" and a b-side. You'll be pleased to know that each of these real audio G2s are about half a megabyte each, which is half as much space as a lot of other sites are posting them as which increases download time and space, even though its the same quality! SOTW guarantees to bring you lot the best quality and in the smallest space possible. But please, if your stores do carry imports, look for Melanie C's "Goin' Down" UK imports because they're certainly worth the money, even just for the b-sides if you don't prefer "Ga Ga" or "Goin' Down," but as of Wednesday, October 6th, both cds were available for purchase as import in the US, so run out and get them while you still can, CD 2s are usually the first to go.

Angel On My Shoulder ("dedicated with love to Vincent Tuffley and Winnie Costello")

It was only a matter of time when ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell would have to battle one of her former bandmates (if not the four of them as a group). But with three Spice Girls readying solo material for release apart from the group, the odds just increased...and here it is. An all-out Spice War! Of course, while the only persons concerned are die-hard Geri and Emma fans and the media as well, its almost certain Emma and Geri would love to win, but really don't care either way. The Spice Battle will begin on November 1st when Geri releases her 3rd single from Schizophonic: "Lift Me Up," while Emma releases her first solo material, a collaboration, with hot UK dance act Tin Tin Out as a brilliant cover of Edie Brickell and the New Bohemian's 1989 hit "What I Am." Geri has the experience advantage with topping the charts with her last Latino-tinged single: "Mi Chico Latino," as well as odds in her favor of 2:1, but even with solo Spice-let downs Melanies C and G placing the charts in 4th and 12th respectively with "Goin' Down" and "Word Up," Emma could certainly put up a good fight with Tin Tin Out with odds of 5:2. In terms of music videos, Emma Bunton could provide a more thrilling video of "sinking in the shallow water" whereas Geri and her alien friends could use a "Lift Me Up" since they spend the video cruising around and making good mischief. Radio-wise, the results are about even since both are on the early promo list. Geri Halliwell could cause some attention with some b-sides on her Lift Me Up UK CDs with a cover of Paul McCartney's "Live & Let Die" and a new b-side called "Love Me Slowly." But Emma's UK CDs feature some remixes, so the clubs might be in Emma's favor since the remaining tracks on Geri's cds have yet to be identified. So whichever one it comes down, at least there'll be some Spice in the # 1 and 2 positions.

Apparently even a Posh Spice Girl and a talented footballer are nothing close to the sexiest couple voted by Heat Magazine Voters. The BBC reports that Vic and Dave ranked third according to the readers of Heat. The top "honor" went to the acting team of Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise. The pair starred in their highly controversial film "Eyes Wide Shut." George Michael and Geri Halliwell weren't ready to keep their eyes focused on much more and left after the premiere was delayed in London an hour and a half. However apparently Posh'n'Becks weren't even sexy enough for second either! Actor Brad Pitt and Friends' star Jennifer Aniston beat out the Spicey-duo. Victoria and David shouldn't be too concerned, they topped Hugh Grant and Liz Hurley as well as Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. So at least they can keep their respect in tact knowing that their marriage won't result in a movie that can't live up to the hype of sexual exploits or have the other one star in a successful sitcom only to fail miserably in every movie role offered. Although I wouldn't look for Victoria cutting a solo deal anytime soon, but you never know...

October 2, 1999-Melanie C Gathers Confidence and Performs in New York, Will Face Off Against # 1 Diva for Chart Battle, Melanie G Gets "Naughty," and Emma's A Contender for Pokemon Contest

Melanie Chisholm played a crowded crowd Friday (October 1st) in New York City at Irving Plaza. The artist also known as Sporty Spice played quite a set from her upcoming "Northern Star" album, including the fan favorites (the only ones the fans knew): "Goin' Down [an acoustic version to appeal to those non-rockers]", "Ga Ga," as well as the title track. Proving to stay to her Spice roots, Mel launched a rock-hard version of "Wannabe," which had everyone singing along. While Melanie C might have wow-ed the concert goers, anyone who might have been watching MTV News noticed that Melanie C got little attention for her gig, despite an interview in which Mel C admitted she did suffer from stage fright. However, when Melanie C releases her album "Northern Star" in the US on November 2nd, she'll face off with a few returning acts including the solo artist who tops this weeks Billboard Hot 100 Charts with her catchy single, "Heartbreaker." The diva, Mariah Carey, will also be releasing her return album "Rainbow" on November 2nd as the follow-up to her 13 # 1 Singles: "The # 1s" and her 1997 album, "Butterfly." Carey claims that the fact she hasn't been in the music business for ten years yet is the reason why she isn't labeling her last compilation album her "Greatest Hits." The Spice Girls are rumored to be releasing their "Greatest Hits" on the 30th of November. However, with a fourteenth # 1 single to her name and an onslaught of # 1 albums, Mariah is definitely in the lead of promo power since Mel's "Goin' Down" single as domestic nor import has yet to hit the US. Mel C's best move to ensure a steady chart placement would be to release "Northern Star" in heavy rotation, but not attaching the name "Sporty Spice" to her credit (only because the radio stations don't like the S word: Spice). Even though the girls have never cared about charting, it would be a blow to Mel C to clock in less than Geri Halliwell's debut solo album "Schizophonic" which landed on the bottom half of the US charts. But Melanie C has one ace up her sleeve, MTV was very interested in the "Never Be The Same Again" track from Chisholm's upcoming album, which features TLC's Left Eye Lisa Lopes. So hopefully Mel's R&B track gains some TLC fan support, despite T-Boz's Spice Girls bashing in a UK Magazine. Honestly, I'll bet on Carey to win, but you'll notice I took the Heartbreaker Remix track down. My full support is with Mel and you never know how things turn out. Melanie C will also gain appeal from Canada with a show on Monday in Toronto and an LA concert on Tuesday. Mel might be "Goin' Down," but she's not out. For anyone who has real video capability and can't go to the concert on Monday...you can watch it over the Internet on Monday (October 4th) at:

Melanie G apparently will be proving that she's still Scary despite being a dedicated mother and a recent model for the London Fashion Awards in more of a Baby Spice dress. Melanie G will follow Emma in presentation, but Mel is launching a new television talk show known as "Pure Naughty" on BBC2 in the UK. The guests include former New Kid on the Block, Jordan Knight, Wesley Snips, and Dru Hill among others in her personal guest selection. You can also expect the other Spices to drop by. But Mel G promises to address loads of serious issues such as racism in the UK as well as some more light topics such as music and the joys of motherhood. As always with Scary Spice, it'll be unpredictable and you don't have to worry about any silence.

Emma is gearing up for the release of her "duet" work with Tin Tin Out. While you can download the track at Spice Tracks in mp3 and real audio and a clip of the video at SGC, I was able to receive a real audio version of it which I will post on the main page shortly. However, Rachel, SPECIAL THANKS!!!, missed the ad which normally precedes the music video, promoting her show "Emma" on Vh1. Emma performs a smashing cover of Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians "What I Am" track released in 1989. Even though she's "featured" on the duet, she actually sings the entire track to the background music of Tin Tin Out. "What I Am" will be featured on Tin Tin Out's new "11 to Fly" album as well as a single, but Mel C recently told Launch.com that Emma will be presenting a track to the soundtrack of the popular fad of the moment Pokemon. No word yet on whether its "What I Am," but you can be sure SOTW will follow it up. Personally, I think the Spice Girls should guest voice on the show, it would make things a bit interesting. Mel G could have a powerful "ROAR" which shakes the ground, Mel C can do some kicking, Emma could throw donuts and eat them, and Victoria could point...maybe even a Geri one could stop by and dress up in different costumes to distract them...but maybe I've said too much already...

September 27, 1999-Spice Girls Ponder New Charity Single, Tabloids Right for a CHANGE, & Geri Joins the Group Laughing All the Way to the Bank.

While fans grow antsy with the SUPPOSED Arrival of the Spice Girls' Greatest Hits "Spice Box" supposedly being released November 30th, to be followed ALLEGEDLY by the much-anticipated third album in December...and the chart results of Melanie C's solo debut with "Goin' Down" released today, September 27th, everyone in Spiceworld can rejoice (and argue) as the Spice Girls signed onto a growing cast list of all mega-successful artists who will be supplying talent and vocals to a BBC-Charity single in the taste of Perfect Day, which is shooting to be the first # 1 single of the millennium in the UK.

Almost 20 other acts, such as the Fun Lovin' Criminals, Annie Lennox, and James Brown have recorded a single line in studios around the world for a cover of the Rolling Stones' 1974 smash hit "It's Only Rock 'N' Roll." According to Dotmusic, Mick Jagger gave his approval to cover the track having heard Lou Reed's 'Perfect Day' track attempted by various artists and groups for the BBC corporate video. The video producer, Arthur Baker, will also be producing the single, under release by Universal TV, and slated to enter the first chart of the year 2000.

I'm hoping Ripley's "Believe It Or Not" has been notified. It appears that for once, tabloids have reported an actual story which is factual. Baby Spice, Emma Bunton, apparently has ended her single love life while dating Football Star Rio Ferdinand. Both were spotted living la vida loca and certainly living it up at the Emporium nightclub in London this weekend. Supposedly, both were commemorating Emma's presenting debut of her own video show on Vh1 UK. Well, there's your miracle in a lifetime: the tabloids actually getting one right!

The Spice Girls have been having a slow year so far as a group, with Geri having left last year, Melanies C and G zipping from London to America to work on solo careers, Victoria taking care of Brooklyn and launching a Meningitis campaign, and Emma branching off on her own in various projects. But that doesn't mean the money isn't rolling in despite the fact there hasn't been any Spice Girls single or album releases...just a few doll series and a sugar-coated tour video. In fact, they've grossed (as a group) 25 MILLION POUNDS!!!!!

Dotmusic and the Daily Express have reported that Victoria, Emma, and the Melanies were each paid over 6 million pounds! They also divulged that Victoria is still fashionably wearing the pants in the family, earning just about twice as much as Husband & Super Football Player (and one of the highest paid players in the UK) David Beckham, who only makes a measly 3 million pounds a year.

With all this income, you'd think Great Britain would be thinking about how to divide assets from Spice taxes. Wrong! The Spice Girls individually formed their own companies and receive their money via Spice Girls Limited, which pays them for their duties...this only saves the girls millions in taxes...and its legal! Bet the Spice Girls are glad about those loop holes!

So Geri Halliwell isn't the most successful solo artist to come out of the UK in a while. She probably hasn't gained a fortune after leaving the group last year. And you'd think she should have pocketed some of the proceeds from her charity auctions to live on. Alas, Geri Halliwell won't be forced to buy discount (unless she wants to, but she's notorious for finding good deals) even though she left one of the most successful UK Invasions since the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Geri is still enjoying the benefits of being a Spice Girl and seriously paid herself 5.8 million pounds last year. Well, I wouldn't be concerned about your ex group when you're making only two-tenths millions less than them.

Ex-Spice is Around, Mel G's on the Catwalk, Emma's Out and Thin, Mel C's Coming Clean, and Victoria's Doing Something Worthwhile

Geri Halliwell turned Canada upside down with her appearance at the MuchMusic Awards presenting a directing award to Alanis Morrissette for her "Unsent" video. Geri Halliwell showed that the Ex-Spice Girl still had some SPICE, by showing off her Ginger Side with a revealing red-dress (pic above from the BBC). However, Geri, diplomatic as ever, tried to clear the air about her former bandmates and her solo career through various interviews. She revealed that "Lift Me Up" will be her third single from Schizophonic with its release slated in November, a possible rival with former bandmate, Emma, Baby Spice, Bunton's collaboration to Tin Tin Out's single, but more on that later. Geri explained there was no love loss between the girls and that she still considers them friends (Friendship never ends...Goodbye, my friend...).

Melanie Gulzar hammed it up on the catwalk for friend Julien MacDonald as a model! Melanie donned an Afro Wig (If it was the old days, she wouldn't have needed it) to show off a diamente-encrusted pink dress. Mel G had full Spice Girl support as the remaining three Spices showed up at London Fashion Week to cheer Mel on. Pics are posted below this news posting for the 25th courtesy of the BBC.

Emma Bunton will be releasing her cover "duet" with Tin Tin Out of Edie Brickell & the New Bohemians' "What I Am." I was shocked to learn that it will not be a cover of Gloria Gaynor's much different version, as earlier stated by noteworthy Spice sites as SpiceWire and Spice Tracks. "What I Am" by Edie Brickell & the New Bohemians version was actually released 10 years ago from their "Shooting Rubber Bands at the Stars" album, only released in 1989!!! I have a feeling that this song, which may be older than some Spice fans, is best in its original version and honestly doesn't have a chance hitting the top ten in the UK, which I would love it to do. I've encoded a 30 second clip of the original version in real audio so you can judge for yourself. This is brought to you from CDNow.com. Of course, I'm sure that because Tin Tin Out is a successful group in the UK that work as producers and remixers they'll put a Spice-y spin on the cover, but often covers don't live up to the originals. Emma has promised a clip of the song before it hits airwaves in the UK, so you can check out the Spice Girls UK Official Site until its released. Emma also shed those unsightly pounds...thirty actually. Emma's secret? Cut out the doughnuts? Well Emma actually eliminated all the snacks from her daily diet. This follows reports that Virgin asked Emma to lose weight before the shooting of the next Spice Girls video and promotion. Emma says that's she's never felt healthier or happier.

Melanie C, otherwise known as Sporty Spice, will soon find out if her "Northern Star" will rise or end up "Goin' Down" in flames. Melanie C will be releasing her unpopular radio play single "Goin' Down" this week in the United Kingdom. So far, no fantastic artists or singles have been slated for release, so that popularity-wise Mel has the upper hand with a rock-hard single. However, the UK charts are fast and fickle, so its anyone's game. Melanie has been gearing up for her promotional tour of her album and will be hitting the US on the 1st in NYC with a concert. She also revealed that she had in fact been going out with Robbie Williams early in the Spice Girls' career way back in 96, but she was left for All Saint member, Nicole Appleton, whom Robbie also dumped and has been having an on and off again relationship with. However, Mel says that whenever the Spice Girls bump into him, they give him a hard time. Hmmm...maybe All Saints just don't like the Spice Girls for their music...

Victoria Beckham, Posh Spice, has been lying low the most out of the girls. She's been making a few public appearances. She's been working with Ewan McGregor on a meningitis campaign in London. She was originally concerned with a meningitis scare for Brooklyn and she was moved by that, she felt compelled to do more research (and lose the haircut) and was shocked by all the statistics that she found. Using her fame, she did several interviews and has raised awareness to the serious subject, which she thinks is crucial for progress to be made in prevention. However, the "I'm against Meningitis" Spice Girl was horrified to learn she was under attack for supposedly being anorexic. Victoria naturally denied the tabloid rumors with defenses from Spice Girl Melanie C on TFI Friday and even her own mother. Victoria's weight loss after having Brooklyn was tremendous, even Melanie G wanted to know how she did it (Mel still has some of those pounds left), but Victoria explains she's a healthy eater and is just one of those people who eats and eats and never gains a pound...too bad Emma isn't one of them...just kidding.

September 14, 1999, Tuesday-Geri Halliwell More Sugar than Spice, Mel C's Solo Career Ain't So Nice....

Apparently the Spice Girls should consider sticking to a group with slumping solo careers. After Melanie G failed to top the UK Top Ten Charts with her cover of Cameo's "Word Up," it turns out that even the Spice Girl considered most talented is having a struggle on the Radio Charts. Melanie C is in the 90s for Radio Airplay in the UK. Now while Radio only determines 4% of chart entry, its a major step in promotion. One that certainly is crucial for this "Northern Star" to succeed. Melanie C might be wishing that she didn't express her honest opinion about Geri's solo career after horrible ticket-sales for her promotional concert in the UK, not to mention the US, which are readily available and will be posted at later notice. Melanie C will probably making more enemies from Women Organizations all over after Ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell will donate one million pounds to charity as well as the proceeds from her new auto-biography "If Only" due out next month on October 13th in the UK. Geri's reasoning behind this relates back to her discovery seven years ago after discovering a benign lump on her breast. Since then she has been heavily promoting awareness and using her fame to raise issues and money to help support the cause. Hint to Mel C: Your career will be "Goin' Down" in flames unless you act more gingerly and try to be more reserved, but I'm sure the fans appreciate the honesty, although Geri's fans probably don't.

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