We like to keep it lighthearted here in the MTV Newsroom, but this week seemed to run at all sorts of extremes. Even amidst the excitement of a handful of euphoric concert experiences, tragedy repeatedly crept up to remind us that there is always balance in life. As you pour a little liquor out for DJ AM, Ted Kennedy or anybody else you may have personally lost this week, take a look at the week that was.
» Superstar record spinner DJ AM was found dead in New York, and we have his final MTV interview.
» The country lost a great statesman this week in Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy, who always championed the rights of young people and taught MTV some interesting things about government back in 2000.
» In another flashback, we revisited the tragic anniversary of the death of Aaliyah, who left behind an amazing legacy of forward-thinking pop.
» There was time for joy this week, too. Nine Inch Nails began their farewell tour with four shows in New York City and even performed the classic album The Downward Spiral in its entirety one night.
» In another successful taking of the Big Apple, Britney Spears played three triumphant nights at Madison Square Garden that was full of acrobats, magic tricks and ... professional wrestling?
» Taylor Swift, Cobra Starship, Katy Perry and Ne-Yo all dropped in to remind you that the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards are just around the corner.
» The music world got a new amateur sensation this week in Danyl Johnson, who is in fact not the same guy who sang "Funeral Home."
» Remember when Heidi Montag performed at the Miss Universe pageant? It already seems so long ago.
» Our ongoing look at the life and career of Jay-Z soldiered on, reminding everybody that sometimes record executives are just wrong.
» And of course be sure to check back all weekend for our continuing coverage of the 2009 Outside Lands Festival.
