Looks like Michelle Williams isn’t the only one channeling Marilyn Monroe lately.

Just as My Week with Marilyn hits theaters across the country, it seems Mizz Jessie + The Toy Boys has been doing her own reflecting on the iconic bombshell’s untimely demise–electro-pop style.

“Marilyn” is one of Jessie’s more serious-faced offerings, putting a brief hold on the sexy talk of her past few singles (no “All my hos, touch ya toes!” calls to action here) in order to wax philosophical on the bouncing mid-tempo.

“Marilyn, why’d you die young?/Were you running?/Were the rumors true?” the “Push It” princess ponders above the big, bubbly ’80′s electro-pop beats (and a bit of harpsichord for good measure).

Earlier this year, the mannequin-minded mistress released the Show Me Your Tan Lies EP, as well as her latest single “Let’s Get Naughty” in October–all tiny teases before Jessie finally pops in 2012 with her highly anticipated debut LP, This Is How Rumors Start.

“Let’s Get Naughty” was released on October 25. (iTunes)

What’s the only thing better than reflecting on my favorite releases of the past year? Why, pondering what happens next year of course!

Below are some of MuuMuse’s Most Anticipated releases of 2012–a round-up of what we already know, what we’ve already heard, what we want to hear in the next year.

Madonna, TBA (Twelfth Studio Album)

What it is: The return of the Queen.
Expected shelf date: March 2012.
Confirmed tracks: “Gimme All Your Luvin,” “Girls Gone Wild,” “Masterpiece”
Production by: William Orbit, Jean Baptiste, Martin Solveig, Benny Benassi
What we know: The chant-ridden lead single “Gimme All Your Luvin” already leaked in demo form weeks ago, though the final version will be getting a (hopefully muscled-up) makeover with M.I.A. and Nicki Minaj when released in January. But between “Gimme” and the tender sound of W.E. closer “Masterpiece”–her best ballad in years–there’s still no telling what the actual direction is yet. Regardless, Orbit claims Madonna has amazed him “in unexpected ways” while recording.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Madonna doing what she does best–making innovative pop music that sets the bar and stands the test of time.

Marina + The Diamonds, Electra Heart (Second studio album)

What it is: Corruption, immoral behavior, and the death of the American dream–all in a blonde wig.
Expected shelf date: 2012.
Confirmed tracks: “Fear & Loathing,” “Radioactive,” “The Archetypes”
Produced by: StarGate, Guy Sigsworth, Diplo, Greg Kurstin, Dr. Luke
What we know: It’s going to be a concept record (to some degree). As Marina told PopJustice in an interview, the album tells the tale of an American Dream-meets-Greek tragedy through a character she came up with: Electra Heart. Her StarGate-produced alt-dance pop single “Radioactive”–the second part of an ongoing video series documenting the birth of Electra Heart–was easily one of the best songs of 2011, and leaked demo “Starring Role” proved that Diamandis’ caustic writing style is still very much alive and well.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Sharp-tongued quirk-pop with punchy beats and devastating ballads–just don’t get too mired in the concept, please.

Garbage, TBA (Fifth Album)

What it is: A rock goddess and her talented troupe finally return to save the world.
Expected shelf date: Late March/Early April 2012
Confirmed tracks: TBA
Production by: Garbage
What we know: Apart from a greatest hits package, it’s been almost seven years since Garbage’s 2005 triumph, Bleed Like Me, was released. After taking some time apart as a band (including Manson’s failed foray into crafting a solo album with Greg Kurstin and Paul Buchanan that was rejected by labels for being “too noir” and will forever remain one of the world’s greatest musical injustices), the group is back. As Butch Vig told Billboard, the album will feature “noisy guitars, big electronic beats, atmospheric film moments.” And judging by the samples that they’ve teased to fans over the past few months–they’re hitting harder than ever.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: More head-spinning electronic rock production, mind-numbingly catchy hooks and razor-sharp lyricism from the one and only Miss Manson.

Charli XCX, TBA (Debut Album)

What it is: A young Goth-pop princess on the verge of exploding.
Expected shelf date: TBD.
Confirmed tracks: “Stay Away,” “Nuclear Seasons”
Production by: Ariel Rechtshaid, Patrik Berger
What we know: The 19-year-old UK club kid’s dark, industrial 2011 buzz single “Stay Away” is easily one of my favorite songs of the year, while the bouncy, vintage ’80s sheen and crackle of lead single “Nuclear Seasons” finds the 19-year-old songstress blending elements of Marina + The Diamonds, Kate Bush and Gwen Stefani.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Gloom ‘n’ doom beats and spooky vocals.

Ke$ha, TBA (Second Album)

What it is: The trash-pop glamazon’s long awaited follow-up.
Expected shelf date: May 2012, according to Dr. Luke.
Confirmed tracks: None
Production by: Dr. Luke, Max Martin
What we know: Earlier in the year, Ke$ha told MTV that the new album was going to be “balls-out, irreverent rock and roll.” Recent leaks like “Shots On The Hood Of My Car” and “Only Wanna Dance With You” suggest more of the same glitter-drenched party pop, although it’s unclear if they’re from recent sessions. The only definite new recording is her sobering cover of Bob Dylan‘s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright.” Why the long wait? Simple. She has a goal: “To reinvent pop music.” Easy, right?
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Crunchy, rowdy beats and even sleazier debauchery. But even as the rough gem she is, Ke$ha shines brightest on her balladry–fingers crossed for at least one or two.

Lana Del Rey, Born To Die (Debut Album)

What it is: The end result of a whole lot of hipster hype.
Expected shelf date: January 30, 2012
Confirmed tracks: “Video Games,” Blue Jeans,” “Born To Die”
Production by: Justin Parker, Robopop
What we know: She’s been unfairly thrust into way too bright of a spotlight for only one or two songs so far (the genius “Video Games” and “Blue Jeans”) thanks to a nearly creepy obsession by indie bloggers both hailing and criticizing the singer (yes, she got her lips done–we get it). But the husky-voiced Del Rey–formerly Lizzy Grant–has since held her own, delivering yet another staggering, weepy-eyed smash with “Born To Die”–the title track off of her upcoming Interscope Records debut. With any luck, the album will follow suit.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Sweeping, dramatic classics sung atop hip-hop beats and Western twangy noises with all the grandeur of a James Bond theme.

Miike Snow, TBA (Second Album)

What it is: One of pop’s greatest production troupes returns for another moment of left-of-center pop-rock ingenuity.
Expected shelf date: TBA
Confirmed tracks: “Devil’s Work”
Production by: Miike Snow
What we know: Andrew Wyatt and Bloodshy & Avant–here known individually as Christian Karlsson and Pontus Winnberg, delivered one of pop’s greatest surprises with their 2009 record, Animal. After spending over a year recording, the trio returned with buzz single “Devil’s Work”–a sharp, staggering mixture of crashing drums, mighty horns and electronica. The accompanying tease of a video, featuring a man running down an empty desert highway, hints at an upcoming story to be told about the birth of a new human race. It’s weird, captivating and it’s all very promising.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Strange Swede-pop production and poignant lyricism.

Diana Vickers, TBA (Second Album)

What it is: The delightfully darling X Factor Alum’s sophomore attempt.
Expected shelf date: TBA
Confirmed tracks: None
Production by: Donkeyboy, Amir Amor
What we know: The quirky electro-pop songstress isn’t straying far from the twinkling sound of her 2010 debut, Songs From The Tainted Cherry Tree. Newly premiered buzz tracks–“Music To Make The Boys Cry” and “Kiss Of A Bullet”–suggest both bright, twinkling beats and cutting Rachel Stevens-esque synth-pop.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: More of the same winning electro-pop charm, but with new and up-and-coming producers.

Sky Ferreira, TBA (Debut Album)

What it is: Pop’s most thrilling enfant terrible finally finding her footing.
Expected shelf date: TBA
Confirmed tracks: None
Production by: TBA, presumably Bloodshy & Avant
What we know: Nothing’s guaranteed. In early 2011, Ferreira released the year’s best pop EP–As If!–boasting five crunchy, forward-thinking pop cuts like “Traces” and “99 Tears.” But between album push-backs, label misfires and her own personal rebellions, no one’s certain about the fate of a Sky Ferreira LP. The underrated chanteuse has been leaking songs left and right onto her official SoundCloud, teasing everything from drifting alt-pop rock, to delicious deep disco jams, to crunchy Bloodshy & Avant unreleased gems. According to the singer herself, a new single will be released in early 2012. Let us pray.
MuuMuse hopes to hear: Anything. Sky doesn’t make bad music.

MUH BAYBEH’S GETTIN’ MARRIED, Y’ALL.

According to US Weekly, Rolling Stone and basically the entire planet right now: BRITNEY SPEARS, The Holy Spearit, has gotten ENGAGED to her boyfriend, Jason Trawick!

According to the report, Trawick popped the question over dinner last night to celebrate his 40th birthday.

The Living Legend just tweeted about an hour ago:

OMG. Last night Jason surprised me with the one gift I’ve been waiting for. Can’t wait to show you! SO SO SO excited!!!! Xxo

Could it be a ring? Methinks yes!

EDIT: And here’s confirmation from Queen B herself!

Tonight was one of the most magical nights of my life. Such an amazing time with my new fiancé and our closest friends and family. #Blessed

AWWWWW. So happy to see you happy, B! We love you! ♥ Oy, and now I’ve got to find an outfit for the wedding…

YAY FOR ENGAGEDNEY!

RIHANNA NAVY…WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?!

On November 22, we found love in a hopeless music industry when Bajan Illuminati Size Queen Navy Commander Princess Rihanna unleashed her glorious sixth studio album: Talk That Talk.

Now I’m all drunk on love (did you read the MuuMuse review yet?), and I’ve gained approximately 750 pounds from all the birthday cakes I keep baking and eating every five seconds (I love it).

But we all want love, don’t we? DON’T WE? Or am I just a fool in love? Didn’t think so. That’s why…

MuuMuse is proud to be giving away ONE AUTOGRAPHED COPY of Rihanna’s sixth studio album, Talk That Talk.

To enter to win, watch ‘n’ learn: Simply follow me on Twitter at @MuuMuse and tweet me with the following phrase…

Yo @MuuMuse: You da one that I think about alway-ay-ays! Now give me that signed @Rihanna CD, bitch! #TalkThatTalk http://bit.ly/s3Ddov

One winner will be randomly selected and notified on December 29. US entries only, please!

Good luck and godspeed. Now roc me out!

Okay, so now it’s really, really official: Madonna’s upcoming twelfth studio album will be released in March (which is SO SOON, by the way) and the single–which has been retitled from the former demo title of “Give Me All Your Love” to “Gimme All Your Luvin”–is out in the last week of January.

From PR Newswire/Live Nation Entertainment:

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Madonna will have a new album out in late March; it was officially confirmed today by Interscope Records. In one component of a very broad plan developed by long time manager Guy Oseary and Live Nation Entertainment, the Material Girl has signed a three album deal with Interscope Records. The new album, her first in five years, has been completed. “Gimme All Your Luvin,” the first single from the album, will be released the last week in January prior to her upcoming Bridgestone Halftime Superbowl appearance on February 5th.

In 2007, Madonna signed a multi-faceted deal with Live Nation that includes new studio albums, touring, merchandising, fan club/website, DVDs, music-related television and film projects and associated sponsorship agreements. “We look forward to a great partnership,” commented Live Nation Entertainment’s Chairman of Global Music & CEO, Global Touring Arthur Fogel. Oseary was equally enthusiastic: “We couldn’t be happier to work with Jimmy Iovine, Lucian Grainge (Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Group) and the entire Interscope team. We anticipate a very bright future at our new home,” added Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M. “Very rarely does an opportunity like this come around. We would like to thank Madonna, Guy and Live Nation for their belief in us.”

As we already know here at MuuMuse, any song with “Gimme” in the title is 100% scientifically proven to be perfect.

Lesser divas, fasten your wigs–it’s gon’ be a bumpy 2012.

STOP BREATHING: AN AMAZING SONG AWAITS YOUR EARS.

If you thought you liked Diana Vickers‘ brand new buzz track “Music To Make The Boys Cry,” start crying now–’cause you’re in for another mayjah treat.

Just a few moments ago, the X Factor alum tweeted out another new buzz track: “Kiss Of A Bullet,” produced by Amir Amor. And guess what? IT’S AMAZING.

You know what it sounds like? It sounds like a Rachel Stevens song. No, this is NOT A DRILL: It sounds like Stevens’ brand of electro-pop perfection with a slightly darker (Goldfrapp-ish?), quirkier edge. It’s sexy. It’s seductive. It’s like the best thing I’ve ever heard in at least 24 hours.

“Some like it hot, but I like it cold,” Vickers purrs during the slinky chorus. And then that “(Bang bang) Shoot me down! (Bang bang) Shoot me down!” bit post-chorus? BLOODY BRILLIANT!

Oy vey, this is going to be one solid follow-up. Viva la Vickers!

Diana is currently giving away “Kiss Of A Bullet” for free on Twitter and Facebook. (iTunes)

The bad news is that we’re not getting new Florrie tunes until 2012.

The good news is that Florrie felt pretty bad about it, so she’s just released a remix of her track “Begging Me”–for free!

Just as she’s done with all her past releases, the incredibly giving, thoroughly amazing former Xenomania house drummer has unleashed the Fred Falke remix as a free download (and also on iTunes worldwide if you’d like to help support her!) for fans.

From Florrie’s official website:

I know I’ve kept you waiting for new music, but once I knew I wasn’t going to finish any new material and release it by the end of November, I knew it was better to wait until the new year and avoid all the Xmas madness!

BUT… to thank you for all of your patience and support , I’ve decided to release the FRED FALKE special remix of ‘Begging Me’! I’ve had it in my iTunes for a while and now seems like the perfect time to get it out there. You can listen and download the remix below, or even buy on iTunes. I hope you like it! To go with Fred’s mix, I’ve also put together a little video of some of the best bits of my year, out very, very soon…

In case you missed it earlier this June, “Begging Me” was released as part of Florrie’s brilliant Experiments EP, which I absolutely loved (and still do). Disco pop perfection at its finest!

Falke’s take on the track only brings it deeper into disco territory, providing a delicious French House lick of synth pulsations and throbbing beats. It’s truly a fire hot remix–so grab it NOW!

One to watch for 2012? Most definitely.

DL: Florrie – Begging Me (Fred Falke Remix)

“Begging Me (Fred Falke Remix)” was released on December 14. (iTunes)

Get ready, y’all, because the evolution of Adam Lambert has just begun.

See, I’ve had a chance to listen to the new Adam Lambert single, “Better Than I Know Myself,” — in full. Great news — it’s really, really good.

First off, I should say that the snippet, which was released today, doesn’t really do the song justice. You can hear that the chorus sees Adam reaching into the higher part of his register, with booming, “Halo”-like drums and a skittering backbeat. But part of what makes the song magical is the way it builds from the opening of whining synths and a nicely percussive backing track, then builds instrumentally into the chorus. Dr. Luke‘s signature style as a producer is the juxtaposition of relatively subdued verses and a huge, explosive chorus, and “Better Than I Know Myself” does that magnificently.

The added talents of Claude Kelly, too, who remains one of the finest songwriters currently in the game, augment the song’s impact, since Claude has a way of cutting to the core of an emotional conflict with quick, elegant images. “Cold as ice, and more bitter than a December winter night/That’s how I treated you,” Adam sings in the opening lyrics, a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it simile that speaks volumes.

The most emotionally potent moment is the bridge, where the richer synths yield to a tinkling piano and the lyrics turn unexpectedly vulnerable: “I get kinda dark/Let it go too far/I can be obnoxious at times/But try and see my heart.” It’s a lovely turn, with a candor that’s refreshing to hear in pop music, and it makes the song truly memorable.

In my piece last week for MTV Buzzworthy, I wrote that “My sources tell me that ‘Better Than I Know Myself’ is a piece of flaw-free radio candy, a stunning midtempo track with a powerhouse chorus that’s like a pumped-up ‘Whataya Want From Me,’ and it should cement Adam’s place in the pop A-list.” I’m sticking by this, especially the latter statement. “Better Than I Know Myself” is more radio-ready as anything on his last album, and I would be stunned if it didn’t perform excellently on the charts, and catapult Adam way further into the realm of superstardom than he’s ever been before.

“Better Than I Know Myself” is the lead single off of Adam’s upcoming album, Trespassing. (iTunes)