Is it possible that the release day of an album is dependent on the status of the artist? We now learn that the much heralded second album from Whitney Houston has now been pushed back to March.

As for that other star of mega status — Michael Jackson — word is that we’ll all have to wait even longer for his “Thriller” follow-up. Mention of young brown eyes, who, we’re “reliably” informed is scheduled to tour Britain later this year (Oh YEAH?!) yet another rumour suggests that he wants to buy his old record company Motown — which, naturally, has been vehemently denied by one and all.

Shirley Murdock currently hitting paydirt U.S.A. with th success of her “As We track 'Which is included on her 1985 album release. The singer is presently recording new tracks with Larry Troutman for her upcoming album from Elektra.

Hot shots Jam & Lewis together with Jesse Johnson have, reportedly, begun work on track cutting for the upcoming Time reunion album. No definite news yet on the proposed tour, however.

Top backing singer Cyndi Mizell, who recently backed Freddie Jackson on concert dates, has been signed to Columbia. On her debut vinyl for the company the singer will have the impressive combined skills of producers Michael Powell, Hubert Eaves, James ‘D’ Train’ Williams and Reggie Griffith on her team.

The diminunitive one, Prince, has written a song for Meli’sa Morgan's new Capitol album by way of a thank you for her Paul Laurence — produced cover version of his “Do Me Baby”.

Prince is gearing up for a new U.S. tour using a band line-up containing only one member of his original / contingent, keyboardist Matt Fink. Sheila E will also tour with the Minneapolis Marvel playing trap drums and additionally performing material from her own new album.

Prince’s new album has now been reduced to a double set from its original triple LP format.

Former Shalamar Jody Watley taking the Janet Jackson route? Her new Andre Cymone/David Z-produced single “Looking For A New Love” is not too dissimilar from Jackson’s “Control” and observers are now awaiting Watley’s new video to see if the lady uses any Jackson-like choreography. However, as has been pointed out, the lady was a member of the Soul Train troupe of dancers before joining Shalamar and so is more than qualified to take up the challenge.

Leon Ware has signed with L.A. indie label Sonic Atmospheres and is currently preparing new product for the company. Ware has written several classic tunes including Marvin Gaye's “1 Want You” album which he also produced.

News from february 1987