First Dibs: Why Has Lady Gaga Been Banned From Playing At SXSW?

By Rahsheeda Ali

February 27, 2014 / 7:45 AM

Blondie invokes the hip-hop spirit, Chris Brown receives honors, and Rick Ross sidesteps controversy.

We know that SXSW is generally indie rock heaven, but in past years, they've welcomed major mainstream acts as well. However, it seems like Lady Gaga is getting the shaft from organizers, as she's been told she can't perform at one of the festival's stages. Apparently, her fanbase is so huge that she'd end up causing safety concerns. [Idolator]

We were super excited to find out David Byrne dropped a few lyrics made famous by Biz Markie, and now Blondie has channeled a classic rap act as well. The legendary rock group performed the Beastie Boys' "(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)" during the NME Awards. Guess Blondie never stopped being into hip-hop! [NME]

Even amid Chris Brown's mounting troubles, the singer is being honored for his good deeds. A group that helps rehabilitate former felons is giving the R&B star an award for helping distressed communities. So somewhere underneath it all, maybe Breezy is actually a good guy. [TMZ]

Rick Ross took time to explain certain lyrics from his upcoming album, Mastermind. The rapper namedropped slain teenager Trayvon Martin, and promptly clarified his remarks to quell any brewing controversies. [MTV News]

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[Photo Credit: Getty Images]