McCreery Returning to American Idol Stage

Call it “the return of the champion”… Scotty McCreery is heading back to the American Idol stage…

The 18-year-old part-Puerto Rican country singer—the winner of Idol season 10—will return to Fox’s hit singing competition next week to perform his latest single “Water Tower Town.”

Scotty McCreery

Since winning American Idol, McCreery has gone on to become one of country music’s rising stars. His debut album was certified platinum earlier this year, and he was named New Artist of the Year at the American Country Awards last December.

In addition to McCreery, Nicki Minaj will appear on next week’s episode to perform her latest chart-busting single “Starships.”

Meanwhile, the nine remaining contestants, DeAndre Brackensick, Hollie Cavanagh, Colton Dixon, Heejun Han, Skylar Laine, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips, Elise Testone and the lone Hispanic singer left in the competition Jessica Sanchezwho had another “defining moment” during this week’s Billy Joel-themed performances—will be required to tackle songs by their own idols.

Pitbull to Perform at NBA All-Star Game…

Mr. Worldwide is about to get his (all-star) game on…

Pitbull has signed on to perform at the NBA All-Star Game at the end of the month.

Pitbull on Glee

The 31-year-old Cuban American—who gave a high-octane performance In New York City’s Times Square on New Year’s Eve—will team up with Ne-Yo to perform their hit single “Give Me Everything” during the All-Star Game halftime show.

Pitbull will be following in the footsteps of Rihanna, Drake and Kanye West, who rocked the halftime show at last year’s NBA All-Star Game.

Before the big game, Nicki Minaj will perform a medley of her singles, including her brand new track “Starships” and her smash hit “Super Bass,” during the All-Star Game introductions.

Meanwhile, Mary J. Blige will perform the U.S. national anthem prior to the game, with pop group Neverest delivering the Canadian anthem.

Taking place in Orlando on February 26, the showdown between the NBA’s all-star teams will be broadcast on TNT.