Friday: Hi, I’m Back, and It’s Music News Day

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Bay Area trio Green Day is finally ready to hit the studio to work on the follow-up to 2004’s American Idiot. The band released a statement on their website saying they wouldn’t be repeating any of the angry themes established on that decidedly political album, which makes sense because everything’s totally fine now.

Jay-Z may be splitting from his label Def Jam after allegedly demanding “big, big money” that Def Jam bigwigs found “excessive.” The rapper’s contract is set to expire at the end of the month, and the article helpfully points out that instead of working on his negotiating skills, he was celebrating his 38th birthday… in Paris. No wonder he needs more cash.

Brit combo Manic Street Preachers are accusing Radiohead of “demeaning” music by allowing fans to decide how much to pay for their new album, In Rainbows. This is a band right up there with Robbie Williams on the list of Bands Most Successful In Europe That Nobody In the US Has Ever Heard Of. Anyway, their bassist Nicky Wire spoke to UK newspaper the Daily Star, saying the free download phenomenon is “ruining” the music industry.

Can’t get enough of Benny, Bjorn, Anni and Agnetha? Well, starting in 2009 you’ll be able to take a chance (ahem!) on the Abba museum in Stockholm, a three-floor complex dedicated to the Swedish legends. The complex will include a room dedicated to the band’s fashions as well as a recreation of their recording studio. Hey, let’s watch an Abba video.