Pop and Rock Music News in America: Dixie Chick Makes Film Debut; Urban Cowboy to Hit Broadway - January 9, 2003

Natalie Maines of the pop group Dixie Chicks will make her film debut in 'Big Hero' alongside Julia Roberts and Bruce Willis. Natalie says that filming has been more anxiety-inducing than anything else she has done and mentions that Julia Roberts helped her learn how to perform her first role in front of the camera, saying, 'She helped me like someone who is responsible for bringing and taking clothes, or like a mother on stage.' The film 'Urban Cowboy,' which was released in 1980, will now be staged as a musical on Broadway in March. A newcomer named Matt Cavano will play a role that made John Travolta famous. The songs and vocals for this musical will feature famous country music artists such as Clint Black, Dixie Chicks, and Shania Twain, with Jason Robert Brown writing new songs for the musical. On January 7, Rhino Home Video will release a DVD of the Irish pop group The Corrs, compiling 23 concerts the group performed at Wembley Stadium in London, along with behind-the-scenes footage and an additional song based on John Lennon and Yoko Ono's 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over).' Nashville, Tennessee, is celebrating the life and legacy of legendary American folk music singer Woody Guthrie. This month-long event will include a film festival, exhibitions, and art performances. In the last week, a concert in his honor will be held at the Grand Ole Opry, featuring his son Arlo Guthrie, Marty Stuart, Peter Rowan, and Janis Ian. New album releases as of January 7 include 'Living Out Loud' by Aaron Lines, 'Smile' by Jackie Traina, 'Night Grooves' by Chilli Minucci, 'Ozzfest Live' by various artists, and 'Chicago: The Musical' featuring Janet Jackson.