BEASTIE BOYS sued. The six-second flute sample used in the beginning of "Pass the Mic" has apparently gotten the BOYS into some legal trouble, according to SPIN Magazine. Flutist James W. Newton says the sample is from his 1982 "Choir" composition and was used without his permission. Newton is suing for copyright infringement and false designation of origin... to the tune of $150,000 per infringement. The BEASTIES had both obtained permission from ECM Records for the sample AND thanked Newton in their liner notes, but Newton claims that it was his decision to give permission and not that of the record label.

BJORK swears off the silver screen. BBC Radio One reports that BJORK will not be appearing in any more films, following constant bickering and arguing with director Lars Von Trier for Dancer in the Dark, her film debut. Rumor has it that in one of the heated moments, the singer didn't want to wear a certain blouse for a scene, so she tore it up, ate it, and stormed out.

TOMMY LEE in court again. Some would say, it was only a matter of time. E! Online reports that the mischievous former MOTLEY CRUE drummer violated his probation by drinking. If LEE is found guilty of violating probation, he could end up back in jail for three years. No word yet from his lawyer.

Compiled by Glennie Rabin
News Editor