newsmakers

newsmakers

AC/DC releases catalog on iTunes

NEW YORK

AC/DC finally is releasing its music digitally on iTunes.

Columbia Records and Apple announced Monday that the classic rock band’s music will be available at the iTunes Store worldwide.

Sixteen studio albums will be released, including “High Voltage” and “Back in Black,” which already is in the Top 30 on iTunes’ top-albums chart. Two of the group’s albums also are in the Top 100, and several of the Australian band’s songs are in the Top 200.

AC/DC was one of the few acts that would not release music through the digital outlet. Two years ago, Apple struck a deal with The Beatles’ record label, EMI Group, and management company, and began selling the group’s music. Kid Rock, who also had been against selling his music through the digital retailer, is releasing a new album, “Rebel Soul,” on Monday, and it’s available on iTunes.

Funeral Wednesday for actor Hemsley

EL PASO, Texas

Services will take place Wednesday in West Texas for actor Sherman Hemsley, who died in July but an estate fight delayed his burial.

San Jose Funeral Home in El Paso has announced Hemsley’s funeral will be at noon Wednesday at Cielo Vista Church. Burial will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Funeral-home officials say the services are open to the public.

Hemsley served in the Air Force before turning to acting and gaining fame as George Jefferson on the TV sitcom “The Jeffersons.” He died July 24 of lung cancer.

Hemsley’s will named his longtime friend Flora Enchinton Bernal as his heir. His half brother from Philadelphia, Richard Thornton, challenged the will.

A judge in El Paso ruled Nov. 9 the will is valid.

Vindicator wire services