newsmakers

newsmakers

Kasich sings praises of ‘American Idol’ contestants

COLUMBUS

Though not one of the judges, Ohio’s governor has given a rave review to this season’s contestants on “American Idol.”

Republican Gov. John Kasich got chatty about the Fox singing competition Friday while signing a regulatory bill in Columbus.

He asked people in the room if they’ve been watching the program and proclaimed the finalists “really, really, really good.”

“Idol” on Thursday narrowed the field to 13 contestants, none from Ohio. The governor says he wishes the show could “just keep everybody.”

But he also said he’s “not so sure” about the rock-star clothing worn by judge Steven Tyler of Aerosmith.

Kasich’s interest in pop music apparently goes beyond “American Idol.” He mentioned that he and his wife are going to a Lady Gaga concert next week.

Eric Clapton guitars slated for NYC auction block

NEW YORK

Eric Clapton is parting with dozens of guitars and amps at a New York City auction to benefit an alcohol- and drug-treatment center he founded in Antigua.

New York-Bonhams will offer the 70 guitars and 70 amps Wednesday.

Among the highlights is a custom-made black Fender ‘Eric Clapton’ signature Stratocaster, estimated at $20,000 to $30,000. It was used during the “Cream Reunion Shows” in New York and London in 2005.

A pair of 1970 Marshall vintage basket-weave speaker cabinets are expected to fetch $8,000 to $10,000.

The 65-year-old rock Hall of Famer is a recovered addict who established the nonprofit Crossroads Centre in West Indies in 1998.

The British artist’s famous love song “Layla” was released in 1970 when he appeared with blues-rock band Derek and The Dominos.

SiriusXM spotlights Sheen on Tiger Blood Radio

NEW YORK

SiriusXM Radio is devoting a channel to the Charlie Sheen affair.

The satellite-radio service announced Friday that it has created Tiger Blood Radio, a 24-hour limited-run channel it says will examine the news, facts and media frenzy surrounding the actor and his hit CBS series, “Two and a Half Men.”

Tiger Blood Radio will air from Saturday at 6 a.m. Eastern time until Sunday at 6 a.m. on both the Sirius and XM systems, the company said.

Sheen recently has mounted a public campaign to disprove that he is a drug-using, reckless playboy.

He is fighting the decision by his show’s studio and network to shut down production of the series.

Meanwhile, he is facing a battle for custody of his 23-month-old twin sons.