Clash songs covered for charity
Various artists, including the Smithereens, are contributing Clash covers to the double-CD compilation "The Sandinista! Project." The compilation will be released on May 1 and contains 36 tracks from the Clash's own 1980 album "Sandinista!" Proceeds from the set will be donated to charity.

Timbaland releasing solo album and preparing production for 50 Cent, Missy Elliott and Madonna
Although producer Timbaland once said that he would never make a solo album as an artist, his first solo effort will be out March 27. The album, titled "Shock Value," features such collaborators like Justin Timberlake, Nelly Furtado, Elton John and Fall Out Boy. Meanwhile the artist is preparing for more production work for Eve, Chris Brown, 50 Cent, Missy Elliott and Madonna.

Ne-Yo finishing on new album
Singer/songwriter Ne-Yo is in the mixing stages of his new album. The set will be titled "Know Me" and is due April 24. "Know Me" features contributions from producers such as Stargate, Heavy Weights, Nephewand Big D and Ish. First single off the new album is the track “Because Of You" and was recently released to radio. Possible next single will be "Call Me Crazy."Meanwhile, Ne-Yo is rumored to be involved in new projects by Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Britney Spears, Celine Dion, Usher, Chris Brown and Jennifer Hudson, who is the only featured guest on "Know Me."

Elton John Best of album and new single
Elton John will celebrate his 60th birthday with a March 27 release of a single-CD package of his greatest hits. "Rocket Man - Number Ones" will also be available with a bonus DVD featuring 10 videos and performance clips, including "Bennie And The Jets," "Rocket Man," "Your Song" and "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting."The DVD also features the video for Elton John's new single, "Tinderbox."

Tim Finn solo album Imaginary Kingdom set for April 24
Tim Finn will release his latest solo album “Imaginary Kingdom” in the US on April 24.
The former member of Split Enz and Crowded House is currently touring the UK and Europe in support of his new album. Finn wrote most of the album in his native country New Zealand. Finn will perform with his brother Neil as part of the reunited Crowded House at the Coachella Festival in Indio, California on April 29.

Deep Purple withdraw live recording of bad concert
Deep Purple have asked for one of their live albums to be withdrawn from sale after lead singer Ian Gillan claimed the concert in Birmingham in 1993 was one of their worst ever concerts. The singer added that the album had been re-released without his consent. The album, titled 'NEC', is now being recalled by SonyBMG.

Rihanna working on new album
Singer Rihanna is working with Ne-Yo on a new album. After working together on “A Girl Like Me”, Rihanna is spending her days writing songs for the follow-up with Ne-Yo. Rihanna has also worked with producers Stargate, Evan and Carl and Sean Garrett. Rihanna also has studio time booked with Timbaland and Will.I.Am and is also targeting recording time with Polow Da Don (known from his work for Pussycat Dolls) and Andre 3000. According to the singer most of the new songs are “fresh and uptempo."