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Music news: 'Thriller' writer Rod Temperton dies at 66

October 05, 2016

Michael Jackson's 'Thriller'; released November 30, 1982.
Michael Jackson's 'Thriller'; released November 30, 1982.Album art

British songwriter Rod Temperton has died of cancer at age 66. Temperton is best-known for writing some of Michael Jackson’s biggest hits — including "Thriller," the title track to the best-selling album of all time. Recruited by producer Quincy Jones, Temperton also wrote Jackson's "Baby Be Mine," "The Lady in My Life," "Off the Wall," "Rock With You," and "Burn This Disco Out." (Rolling Stone)

Weezer reissue White Album

Weezer are reissuing their self-titled "White Album" less than a year after its original release. Bonus tracks on the re-release include a remix of "Jacked Up," with guest vocals from Nadya Tolokonnikova (Pussy Riot) and Michael Fitzpatrick (Fitz and the Tantrums). The new set comes out Friday. (Billboard)

Grimes drops seven new videos

It's not quite a whole "visual album," but Grimes has released seven new music videos. Four are tracks from her latest album Art Angels, and three are songs by her friend and tourmate Hana. The seven videos were made while Grimes and Hana were on tour together in Europe this summer. (Pitchfork)

Radiohead release Paul Thomas Anderson video

Radiohead have released a new video for "The Numbers," directed by famed filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson. (Pitchfork)

Kid Cudi gets help

Kid Cudi has checked into rehab, telling fans that he's struggled with "depression and suicidal urges." The rapper has recently feuded with Kanye West, who's seemed to understand that his rival needed help. (Rolling Stone)

Flaming Lips to share new music at yoga classes

The Flaming Lips plan to premiere new music at...yoga classes. Yoga Box, a studio in the band's hometown of Oklahoma City, will be featuring new Flaming Lips music at Friday classes throughout this month. The band are reportedly close to finished with a new album. (NME)

Watch the P-Funk Mothership come together

The P-Funk Mothership, a space-age stage prop that flew above Parliament-Funkadelic shows in the '70s and '80s, has now landed at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Smithsonian shared video of the ship being reassembled for display.