Music news is slow during the holidays, so for the rest of the year in addition to the latest news, we will be looking back at the top 12 stories for each month of 2012. Today we look back at the top stories from February and March.

Top 12 of 2012: March

Rihanna Posts Topless Photo Online (Top 12 of March 2012)

(popmusiclife) Rihanna Posts Topless Photo Online was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Rihanna turned some heads this week with a topless photo on Twitter. The picture was posted with the caption, "Where have you been all my life?" a reference to a lyric in her song "Where Have You Been," from her latest album "Talk That Talk."

Part of the reason for the tweet was to let fans know she's filming a video for the track, as she confirmed with a follow-up tweet: "Video shoot goin MAJAH!!! Longest day everrrrr tho!!! #WHEREhaveUbeen #stillgoin."

No word on whether Rihanna will be topless in the actual video, but fans will have to wait to find that out for themselves. See the photo here.

Gene Simmons Slams Rihanna (Top 12 of March 2012)

(hennemusic) Gene Simmons Slams Rihanna was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: The KISS/Motley Crue summer tour double bill was officially announced this week at a press conference in Hollywood.

The veteran hard rockers will hit more than 40 cities across the continent starting July 20 in Bristow, Virginia, with shows scheduled through to September 23.

Dubbed "The Tour," the show will feature 90-minute headlining sets by both bands, with KISS bassist Gene Simmons declaring the trek the real thing. "Both Motley and KISS are united in one crusade: we are sick and tired of girls getting up there with dancers and karaoke tapes in back of them," said Simmons. "What you're going to hear on stage is live music. All the bombs are real, all the music is real, the guys you see onstage playing their instruments are playing their instruments. No karaoke singers allowed. No fake bulls**t. Leave that to the Rihanna, Shmianna and anyone who ends their name with an 'A.' This is real stuff." more on this story

Hackers Stole Unreleased Michael Jackson Songs (Top 12 of March 2012)

(popmusiclife) Hackers Stole Unreleased Michael Jackson Songs was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Sony has confirmed that a 2011 attack by hackers has resulted in the theft of the entire Michael Jackson catalogue - including unreleased tracks.

The BBC reports Sony's PlayStation Network was hacked in April, 2011 and the company admitted that the personal details of more than 70 million people may have been taken.
The hack of Michael Jackson tracks is said to have taken place soon after that but has not been revealed until now.

The singer, who died in June 2009 at the age of 50, had recorded unreleased duets with artists ranging from the late Freddie Mercury and Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am. more on this story

Taylor Swift Bigger Than U2 and Lady Gaga (Top 12 of March 2012)

(Gibson) Taylor Swift Bigger Than U2 and Lady Gaga was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Country singer Taylor Swift earned more than any other pop act last year. According to Billboard, Swift made a cool $35,719,902 last year if you include music sales, royalties and touring income.

Rock legends U2 came second with $32 million while another country singer Kenny Chesney was third with $29.8 million.

Lady Gaga could only manage fourth place with Lil Wayne, Sade, Bon Jovi, Celine Dion, Jason Aldean and Adele making the Top 10. more on this story

Beyonce Making Movie With Glee Creator (Top 12 of March 2012)

(popmusiclife) Beyonce Making Movie With Glee Creator was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Beyonce has signed on to star in a movie musical directed by Glee creator, Ryan Murphy. It will also star Cameron Diaz, Gwyneth Paltrow and Reese Witherspoon.

The BBC reports Murphy's production company has confirmed the film will be called One Hit Wonders.

The actresses will play singers who each had a hit song in the 1990s, but then faded into obscurity. The film follows their story as they decide to join forces and create a supergroup. more on this story

Rick Ross Wins His Name (Top 12 of March 2012)

(TMZ) Rick Ross Wins His Name was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Rapper Rick Ross can keep his name, thanks to an L.A. County Superior Court judge who shut down a bid from former drug dealer "Freeway" Rick Ross who tried to hoard the name.

"Freeway" Rick Ross had filed suit against the rapper, claiming ownership of the name. In fact, the rapper has strongly intimated in his songs his name was inspired by the drug dude.

In the song "Hustlin" for example, Ross makes several references to large-scale drug dealing -- despite what Freeway says ... the rapper never dealt drugs in his life.

But the judge today ruled "Freeway" Rick has no case, and threw the lawsuit out. "Freeway" Rick Ross tells TMZ he's pretty bummed out about the judge's decision ... saying, "I got hit in the stomach today ... I feel s**tty."

Ross adds ... "[Rick] had nine high profile attorneys and I had three volunteer non-high profile attorneys. I had no money to get the big name lawyers so I couldn't go in there with a monster team like him."

He concludes, "The world knows the truth ... that [Rick] stole my identity and shame on him that he won't give it back. I hope to appeal this because you shouldn't be allowed to steal someone's identity and get away with it."

Hunger Games Beats Adele (Top 12 of March 2012)

Hunger Games Beats Adele was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Adele was kept from returning to the top of the album sales charts for another week, this time by the Hunger Games Soundtrack.

The hit movie soundtrack sold 179,678 copies last week, according to Hits Double Daily's album chart. Adele's 21 came in at No 2 with sales of 130,335 copies.

The Shins new album, Port of Morrow, grabbed the No 3 spot with first week sales of 69,801 which relegated last week's No 1, British boyband One Direction, to 4th place after they had a 69% sales drop.

Bobby Brown Arrested (Top 12 of March 2012)

(TMZ) Bobby Brown Arrested was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Bobby Brown was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in Los Angeles yesterday... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ, Bobby was pulled over in Reseda, CA at 12:20 PM PST for allegedly driving while talking on a cell phone.

Whitney Houston's ex-husband already has a DUI conviction on his record stemming from an arrest in Georgia in 1996. He eventually pled guilty to DUI and served 8 days in jail.

Law enforcement sources tell us ... cops believe Brown was DRUNK at the time of his arrest.

Brown was booked for driving under the influence and for driving with the blood alcohol content of .08 or higher.

Tupac Musical Coming (Top 12 of March 2012)

(TMZ) Tupac Musical Coming was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: A new Broadway musical about Tupac Shakur just overcame one MASSIVE roadblock -- TMZ has learned, producers have obtained the approval of the rapper's notoriously protective mother ... who LOVES the show.

A rep for the Shakur family tells TMZ, producers personally gave Afeni Shakur a rough preview of "Holler If You Hear Me" -- the new musical by black theater legend Kenny Leon, based on Tupac's music.

According to the rep, Kenny wanted Afeni's approval before proceeding with the show -- and he GOT IT ... we're told Afeni was "ecstatic" and can't wait for the show to premiere.

The musical isn't about Tupac personally -- it's a fictional story about two childhood friends in a Midwestern industrial city and their extended families.

A Broadway premiere date hasn't been set -- but we're told Leon plans to start casting next week.

Macy Gray Covers Metallica, Arcade Fire, Radiohead on New Album (Top 12 of March 2012)

Macy Gray Covers Metallica, Arcade Fire, Radiohead on New Album was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: 429 Records will release Macy Gray's new album, "Covered," next Tuesday, March 26th.

"Covered" is a collection of all new recordings of handpicked songs she's chosen to reinterpret in her own way.

The album her take on songs from Arcade Fire, Radiohead, Metallica, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Eurhythmics, Colbie Caillat and more.

The album also features short skits featuring J.B. Smoove, Nicole Scherzinger and a guest appearance by Idris Elba. See track and guest list here.

Adam Lambert Unplugs (Top 12 of March 2012)

(popmusiclife) Adam Lambert Unplugs was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Adam Lambert is making the rounds to promote the May 15 release of his sophomore album, "Trespassing."

Adam executive produced the project, which he describes as "an exciting journey through the past two years of my life. It's been a transformative period and I really wanted to make music from what I've experienced. All these songs honestly explore the ups and downs of my reality."

On Sunday, Lambert stopped by Live 95.5 Portland for a fan meet and greet, interview and performance. One of the new tracks Adam played was "Never Close Our Eyes," which he introduced by saying, "You guys wanna hear a brand new song off of 'Trespassing'? This is actually the first time we've ever done this acoustic — for you guys. This is a premiere acoustic performance, so bear with me if I screw up," he smiled. "I'm human!"

Check out the songs, and full session here.

Monkees Tribute Davy Jones (Top 12 of March 2012)

(Gibson) Monkees Tribute Davy Jones was a top 12 pop story of March 2012: Friends, bandmates and fellow musicians continue to pay tribute to The Monkees' Davy Jones, who died Wed (February 29) of a heart attack in his hometown of Indiantown, Florida.

In a statement, Monkees singer/drummer Micky Dolenz said, "The time we worked together and had together is something I'll never forget. He was the brother I never had and this leaves a gigantic hole in my heart."

Monkees bassist Peter Tork added, "It is with great sadness that I reflect on the sudden passing of my long-time friend and fellow-adventurer, David Jones. His talent will be much missed; his gifts will be with us always. Adios to the Manchester Cowboy."

Guitarist Michael Nesmith said simply that Jones' "spirit and soul live well in my heart among all the lovely people." more on this story

Top 12 of 2012: February

Whitney Houston's Death An Accident? (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(popmusiclife) Whitney Houston's Death An Accident? was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Although Whitney Houston's death remains under investigation, it is expected to be officially ruled an accident, sources tell E! News.

While the actual cause of death was temporarily listed as "deferred" on Houston's death certificate, pending the result of toxicology tests, "nothing suspicious" has been found to connect any physicians or other people of interest to Houston's case and the inquiry is nearing completion, the source says.

Plus, "she had no marks on her body whatsoever to indicate a struggle, and she was the furthest thing from trying to kill herself." more on this story

Adele Addresses Hiatus Reports and Is Returning To The Studio (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

Adele Addresses Hiatus Reports and Is Returning To The Studio was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Adele addresses her sweep of the Grammy Awards and speculation that she is planning to take a five year break from music. In fact, she tells fans she is heading back into the recording studio.

The hiatus speculation came from media reports where a quote from a profile in Vogue magazine was taken out of context to read that she was planning to take "four or five years" off. The actual quote was her response when asked about her plans to settle down and start a family. The actual profile read ....One day, I ask about her future. "I am f***ing off for four or five years," she says. "If I am constantly working, my relationships fail. So at least now I can have enough time to write a happy record. And be in love and be happy. And then I don't know what I'll do. Get married. Have some kids. Plant a nice vegetable patch."

Adele addressed the reports in an indirect way in a blog entry where we learn that she is not taking time off, but is planning to return to the recording studio. She wrote: Oh goodness!! I'm absoloutly flabbergasted! In between laughing my head off, welling up, needing to sit down and trying to maintain an open fire (which is pretty much impossible huh!?) I keep having flashbacks to Sunday night. The most incredible night of my life. Thank you to you all, I am so overwhelmed, it's the strangest feeling. I have constant butterflies and goosebumps, it's wearing me out but I LOVE it! I've been sleeping a lot but the minute I wake up I burst out laughing and it starts all over again.

I forgot to mention so many people by name on the night, and for that I'm sorry. I will say thanks to your face when I next see you. I was totally unprepared. Despite the phenomenal year, I swear I didn't think I had any chance. All the categories were full of people I adore with brilliant songs, records and performances. So not in my wildest dreams did I think to actually prepare anything proper to say just in case.

Thank you to everyone who enjoys my music, and to all the "daydreamers" (i love that you call yourselves that. I read all your messages and threads from time to time and you crack me up x) it seems like you pass 21 on and want people to hear it and it's because of that that it's evolved into something that we should all be very proud of. All of this is yours – the songs, the shows, the moments like this. Not that there's any other moments like this one, but you get my drift…. Ha!

The night itself was so amazing, I met so many incredible people and everyone we've lost this year were on our minds and in our hearts and it was lovely to remember them all together as fans and friends.

I've a few days off now, and then it's the Brit Awards here at home and then I'm straight into the studio. BOYYAHH! 5 years? More like 5 days!

Queen Team Up With American Idol's Adam Lambert (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

Queen Team Up With American Idol's Adam Lambert was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: The worst kept secret in rock and roll has been confirmed: Queen have tapped American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert to front the group. They along with KISS and Faith No More are all set to headline the 2012 Sonisphere Festival in England this summer.

The English Sonisphere festival will take place on July 6, 7, and 8th at Knebworth Park. Organizers put out the following information:

Queen's Brian May and Roger Taylor have confirmed the band will headline the second day of Sonisphere appearing on the Apollo stage on Saturday July 7. Knebworth was the setting for Queen's final concert with Freddie Mercury in August 1986.

May and Taylor also confirmed that for this very special event they will be joined by US singer-songwriter Adam Lambert. The potent chemistry between Queen and Lambert broke the surface when at the invitation of Brian May and Roger Taylor, Lambert joined them for the closing showcase at the recent MTV Europe Awards where Queen were present to collect their Global Icon award.

Says Brian May: "Judging by my incoming mail, this decision will make a lot of people very happy. It's a worthy challenge for us, and I'm sure Adam would meet with Freddie's approval! And what better place to revisit, and walk those emotional paths than Knebworth? It will be a rush."

Michael Jackson's Daughter Says Final Album Was Fake? (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(TMZ) Michael Jackson's Daughter Says Final Album Was Fake? was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Michael Jackson's daughter Paris made a bombshell announcement to friends ... telling them the MJ album released in the wake of the singer's death did NOT contain MJ's actual voice ... it was an imposter.

The announcement was made during an online video chat with several friends in 2008 ... just before the "Michael" album was released, which contains several previously unreleased tracks allegedly performed by Michael Jackson.

The video chat was recorded ... and Paris joked about the footage eventually "leaking" to the Internet.

Paris had made the announcement in the midst of rumors that MJ's parts on the "Michael" album were REALLY performed by an MJ sound-alike named Jason Malachi ... but both Jason and Sony denied the allegations.

During the video chat, Paris played one of the songs from the album, "Hold My Hand" ... and one of her friends asks why the singer doesn't sound like MJ. more on this story

Lost Joy Division and New Order Tapes Discovered (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(Gibson) Lost Joy Division and New Order Tapes Discovered was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Food star, restaurateur and "Naked Chef" Jamie Oliver recently made a startling discovery. Oliver and company were excavating an old bank in Manchester, England, when they found master tapes to tracks by Joy Division and New Order, according to NME.

Oliver and his cohorts were working on the bank to transform it into a new restaurant. The tapes come from many sessions of the legendary, Manchester-based bands. In addition to that amazing find, Oliver also found guns, gold and jewelry buried with the tapes.

So what does the celebrity chef have planned for his newfound loot? Well, nothing. Oliver turned over everything (valued at $1.7 million) to the British Treasury. more on this story

Madonna Makes Chart History (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(popmusiclife) Madonna Makes Chart History was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Madonna's new single, "Give Me All Your Luvin'" has landed in the top 10 at no. 10 in its second week on Billboard's Hot 100 chart.

The first single from Madonna's 12th studio album, "MDNA," due March 26, becomes her 38th Hot 100 top 10, pushing her further ahead of runners-up The Beatles (34).

Madonna first reached the chart's top 10 the week of June 16, 1984, when "Borderline" rose to its #10 peak position.

Have a look at the artists with the most top 10 songs in the Hot 100's 53-year history here.

Jennifer Lopez Wardrobe Malfunction At The Oscars? (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(popmusiclife) Jennifer Lopez Wardrobe Malfunction At The Oscars? was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: The web is buzzing with reaction to a possible "wardrobe malfunction" by Jennifer Lopez at Sunday night's Academy Awards.

Lopez was on hand to present Best Costume Design and Best Makeup alongside Cameron Diaz.

The plunging neckline on J-Lo's dress may have caught viewers' attention, and it's being hotly debated whether or not there was a little more showing than should be. Watch video of what happened and judge for yourself.

Rihanna To Play Whitney Houston in New Movie? (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(popmusiclife) Rihanna To Play Whitney Houston in New Movie? was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: It's barely been two weeks since Whitney Houston's death and there's already talk about turning her life into a movie.

And, according to The Daily Mail, Rihanna is rumored to be among the shortlist of talent who are being considered to play the pop diva on the big screen.

Rihanna is in the running for the lead role, as is Jennifer Hudson, actress Vivica Fox, and American Idol singer Jordin Sparks; also being considered for the movie is Will Smith's 11-year-old daughter Willow, who is thought to be portraying the actress as a child. more on this story

Journey Star Sentenced For Assault Charge (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(hennemusic) Journey Star Sentenced For Assault Charge was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Journey drummer Deen Castronovo has been sentenced in connection with an assault last month.

KPTV.com reports Castronovo was arrested in Salem, Oregon on January 20 and charged with several crimes, including fourth-degree assault, resisting arrest, interfering with a police report and coercion.

The drummer received a sentence of 80 hours of community service and he must attend anger-management classes. more on this story

Whitney Houston's Family Sell Funeral Video Footage (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(TMZ) Whitney Houston's Family Sell Funeral Video Footage was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Whitney Houston's "home going" ceremony has turned into a money maker for her Estate -- which very quietly struck a deal to sell the video of the funeral.

Here's how it went down ... Associated Press provided a live pool feed of the funeral to media outlets around the world (including TMZ) on Saturday -- but everyone had to pull the footage 24 hours later. Why?

A rep for the family confirms the family has now "agreed to license footage to several media outlets." The rep says the family is charging "customary fees" to ... "help maximize the estate for the benefit of Bobbi Kristina."

Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez Duet Not Happening (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

(popmusiclife) Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez Duet Not Happening was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: The battle between reality singing contests continues this spring with The Voice and American Idol currently up and running, while other shows are set to return later this spring.

Following the success of The Voice Christina Aguilera and a co-mentor teaming up for a collaboration, MTV reports music fans shouldn't expect Idol judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler to follow in their footsteps.

"None of us are kind of followers in that way," Lopez told MTV News. "We kind of do what feels right, and anybody that's been in the business a long time knows that you don't chase."

"You set the trail. You go out front, and anything that we do is something that feels good to us," she said, leaving the door open just a crack. more on this story

Selena Gomez Putting Music On Hold (Top 12 of Feb. 2012)

Selena Gomez Putting Music On Hold was a top 12 pop story of Feb. 2012: Selena Gomez has released a remix of her 2011 track, "Hit The Lights," and a new video for the song, as well.

"Hit The Lights" was the third single from her latest album, "When The Sun Goes Down."

The Disney star recently decided to take time off from music and her band The Scene to focus on an acting career. "My band and I are going our separate ways for a while," posted Gomez. "This year is all about films and acting and I want my band to play music wherever with whoever. We will be back but, it will be a good while. I love them and I love you guys."