newsmakers

newsmakers

Judge revokes Chris Brown probation

LOS ANGELES

A judge revoked Chris Brown’s probation Thursday but allowed him to remain free for now after the R&B singer traveled without approval for a concert and failed to complete community service on time.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge James R. Brandlin said Brown can remain free at least until a March 20 hearing when the judge will receive an update from probation officials.

Brown was ordered by those officials in December not to leave Los Angeles County without permission. However, the Grammy-winning singer performed at a nightclub in San Jose on Sunday without obtaining permission to travel.

Defense attorney Mark Geragos told Brandlin that his office incorrectly advised Brown that he didn’t need permission to travel for the show.

The judge said he accepted Geragos’ explanation but needed to revoke the singer’s probation to keep control of the case.

Black Crowes calls it quits after 24 years

NEW YORK

The band the Black Crowes is fading to black.

Founding member Rich Robinson announced Thursday the blues-rock group is disbanding after 24 years. In a statement, he alluded to issues between his brother and the band.

Robinson, the band’s guitarist and songwriter, founded the group with his brother and lead singer, Chris Robinson.

The Black Crowes released its debut album, “Shake Your Money Maker,” in 1990. It went on to sell 5 million albums and featured the hits “She Talks to Angels” and “Hard to Handle.”

The band also included Steve Gorman, Sven Pipien, Adam MacDougall and Jackie Greene.

Associated Press