Britney Spears’ fans flexed their purchasing power last week with new single “3,” propelling the pop star to No. 1 on the U.S. Hot 100 in its first week on the chart. The club-friendly track, which appears on the singers’ forthcoming singles collection, encourages sluts the world around (me included!) to participate in a menage a trois. “3 is a charm,” Britney coos. “Living in sin is the new thing.”
I don’t begrudge Britney for getting her freak on, but in my opinion she could have done better. “3″ is mediocre at best — not unlike “Do Somethin’” from her last hits compilation. But it should satisfy die-hard devotees until Spears finishes her next full-length. Judge for yourself:
Coldplay rises to the summit of the singles chart this week with “Viva la Vida,” marking the first time the band has done so (the only track to crack the U.S. top 20 previously was “Speed of Sound,” which peaked at No. 8 in 2005). What a difference an iTunes commercial can do for a singles’ profile (see below). Chris Martin & co. will 
britain’s top selling male artist, james blunt, has accomplished a major feat – he is actually enjoying success on this side of the pond! his debut single, “you’re beautiful,” just