People talk 11/10/03

Cash honored for inspiring next generation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The lineup for today's Johnny Cash tribute concert says a lot about the late singer's place in popular music.

He inspired rockers Kid Rock, Sheryl Crow and John Mellencamp as well as twangers George Jones, Willie Nelson and Brooks & Dunn.

Cash hits such as "Ring of Fire," "I Walk the Line" and "Folsom Prison Blues" became country and rock standards. This year, he received a Grammy and three CMAs.

Cash died Sept. 12 at age 71 of complications from diabetes.

The free concert will be held today at the Ryman Auditorium, and broadcast Saturday on Country Music Television. Actor Tim Robbins will emcee.

Song on Pink's new album salutes Joplin

LOS ANGELES -- Pink's favorite song on her new album salutes a rebellious rocker of years past: Janis Joplin.

Lyrics on the track "Unwind" are a nod to the late 1960s singer, for whom Pink says she has a great affection.

"The song's about being tough on the outside and vulnerable on the inside, and I see now that I am also talking about myself," says Pink.

The album, set for release Tuesday, is expected be another top seller.

"Everything in this business is designed to encourage you to play along," Pink says. "They know people are so hungry for stardom that they'll just follow the record industry game."

"But I found that selling records wasn't enough," she adds. "I told myself after the first record that I'd rather go back home and start over again than be trapped in a one-dimensional world any longer."

Justin Guarini lawsuit more than 'Idol' rumor

EASTON, Pa. -- "American Idol" runner-up Justin Guarini is being sued for more than $100,000 in damages from a car accident in Pennsylvania.

Guarini, 25, collided with another car last March and received a ticket for following the car too closely. He paid a $25 fine and $75 in court costs, said his attorney, Douglas C. Roger Jr.

In a lawsuit filed Friday, Bethlehem residents Louis and Adrienne Maiatico contend Guarini was driving too fast while looking at papers. The suit says Louis Maiatico suffered injuries to his back, neck and side.

Guarini, of Doylestown, lost the final round of the first season of the Fox talent show to Kelly Clarkson. Since then, he has released a self-titled album, gone on a seven-week tour and starred opposite Clarkson in the film "From Justin: To Kelly."-- From wire reports

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FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- Ted Danson helped raise about $100,000 for the troubled Museum of Northern Arizona.

The sold-out, $75-per-person event was personal for the "Cheers" and "Becker" star, whose father, Edward B. "Ned" Danson, became the director of the museum in 1959 when Ted was 12. The family lived across the street from the museum.

"This is a real 'heart' moment for me," Danson told the Arizona Republic.

Saturday's event was to celebrate the museum's 75th anniversary following months of turmoil. The museum's director and all 16 trustees resigned under pressure in July after selling 21 museum artifacts for $1 million.

"Clearly that was not a wise idea," Danson said.

The museum still has an estimated $1 million deficit.

-- From wire reports