MTV News Round-Up 01/07/2004

*** Britney is to release a greatest hits album, according to reports. The pop sensation will apparently put the retrospective out in November featuring some new material in addition to classics, as well as a limited-edition remix bonus CD. A separate greatest hits DVD will also be released on the same day, say reports.

*** Muse will play their scheduled forthcoming European gigs, despite the death of drummer Dominic Howard's father shortly after the band's headline set at Glastonbury last weekend. The trio pulled out of a gig in Italy yesterday (June 30), but will play scheduled shows in Switzerland, Belgium and Denmark over the coming days.

*** Glastonbury boss Michael Eavis has hinted strongly that U2 have been confirmed for next year's festival. "It's a band who have never headlined here before," said Eavis of the signing, "and let's just say the number 2 is very involved!" He also went on to reveal that the smooth running of this year's Glastonbury has meant they might be able to increase the number of tickets allocated by 20,000.

*** The Darkness have been bumped up the T In The Park and Oxegen festival bills to replace an injured David Bowie who will no longer perform at either of the events. The UK rock outfit will now headline both festivals as opposed to performing in their previous second-billing slot. Bowie has cancelled all of his gigs scheduled for July, having picked up a trapped nerve in his shoulder.

*** This year's Reading and Leeds festivals will see an appearance from Beyonce's ass. The Aftershock Tent, which will be located at both sides of both festivals, will feature the Beyonce Bling Bouncer - a bouncy castle shaped to resemble the R&B vocalist's lovely butt. The tents will also boast Jacuzzis, hot-tubs and changing-rooms. Also to be found in the Aftershock area are professional pole dancers.

DL