Jazz artist Hilton Ruiz dies at 54

Jazz artist Hilton Ruiz has died in New Orleans due to complications following an accident. Ruiz has been regarded as one of the most accomplished pianists in the Latin jazz world. He released more than 20 albums and collaborated with such artists as Freddie Hubbard and Tito Puente. A benefit is being held tonight in Manhattan's LQ's. Originally, the benefit was intended to raise funds to help Ruiz in his recovery.


Billy Preston dies at 59

Billy Preston, the keyboard player who had played with the likes of the Beatles, Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones has died after battling chronic kidney failure at the age of 59. Preston had been in a coma since November and was moved over the weekend when his condition worsened. In addition to playing with keyboards for other bands, Preston also had a solo career. He won the Grammy for best instrumental music in 1973.


Google co-founder admits compromise

Google co-founder Sergey Brin has acknowledged that the company compromised on its principles in dealing with the censorship demands of the Chinese government. Brin has stated that Google met the demands only after its services had been blocked in the country. Brin also said that Google is trying to improve the search service Google.cn before it makes a decision on whether or not to reverse on its course of action.


allofmp3.com addresses U.S. lobbyists complaints

Complaints made by U.S. lobbyists for major record labels have said that Allofmp3.com is operating an illegal business and selling pirated copyrighted material. In a statement today, Allofmp3.com has addressed these allegations stating that they are a Russian business operating fully within Russian laws and that they have been paying royalties Russian organizations for the collective management of rights.