Newsbites: Chuck Berry to release new music

Honour: Chuck Berry

Chuck Berry wants to release six new tracks he’s written over the last 16 years, as he admits his career is coming to an end. The 86-year-old was honoured at the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio at the weekend, where he said: “As soon as I can get someone to guide me I want to push them out. They’re the same type of music that I have been playing.” Discussing his age he recited one of his own pieces of poetry: “My singing days have passed, my voice is gone; my throat is worn; and my lungs are going fast.” But he added that he still enjoys his regular appearances at the Blueberry Hill Club in St Louis. [Billboard]

Fuzzbox guitarist Jo Dunne has died after a cancer battle at the age of 43. Sister and bandmate Maggie says: “Jo is one of the very few female guitarists in this country that had any recognition and success. I want everyone to remember her for being so brave at the end.”

Rod Stewart has completed work on a rock album with the working title Love the Life You Live. He says: “It’s just a good old-fashioned album – a lot of mandolin, acoustic and fiddles, and good storytelling. An issue which I thought had long passed – songwritng – has come back, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.” [Billboard]

Don Dokken says former Dokken guitarist George Lynch is long past his best. The singer argues: “You can listen to Dokken, T&N and Lynch Mob and let the fans make their own decision. George will go down in history as once being a great guitarist but his day is over.” Dokken recently said he was finished with making new music in the band named after him, but now adds he’d like to record one more record with the classic lineup – not including Lynch. “Jeff Pilson, Mick Brown and I get along great, but George continues to talk negative about me. I have no desire to play with someone that is emotionally unstable and full of hate.” [Melodic Rock Fanzine]

Courtney Love is planning a musical based on the life of husband Kurt Cobain, says collaborator and manager Sam Lutfi. Speaking under oath during legal proceedings between him and former client Britney Spears, Lutfi says: “We are currently working on a possible motion picture or Broadway musical based on the Nirvana catalogue. It’s an idea – I can’t say anything more.” [Spinner]

Megadeth mainman Dave Mustaine has revealed past damage to his vocal cords means he’s had to change his diet. As he gets set to record his band’s 14th studio album he says: “My problem is treatable – it’s just a matter of exercise, diet and eating habits. I have to cut out some things I like. Coffee is one, but since I’m not a cheerleader for overpriced, overrated Starbucks, I’m not taking it too hard. I’m bummed about no chocolate and tomatoes. But singing is more important to me than ever.”