Sheryl Crow will be joined by Gwyneth Paltrow and Kid Rock on her next album, which is due out late fall. Crow is currently in New York working on the album, which will be her first since last year's Sheryl Crow and Friends: Live in Central Park and her first of new material since 1998's The Globe Sessions.

"She just nailed it," Crow says of Paltrow's singing. The two have been friends for years, and Paltrow -- who gained singing experience in her film Duets with Huey Lewis -- joined Crow onstage during an impromptu party at the Cutting Room in New York on April 14th. The two sang several cover songs, including the Who's "Squeeze Box" and Ram Jam's "Black Betty," as well as "It's Only Love," a song Crow co-wrote for Stevie Nicks' upcoming album, Trouble in Shangri-la. "She is a great singer, and an awesome friend," Crow says of Paltrow.

Kid Rock, another friend, showed up at Crow's party dressed in a bunny suit and joined her for a cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama." She speaks highly of the Detroit rappin' rocker's musical talent: "Every time I am around him I just appreciate him so much more." Although details are still being worked out, he will sing on her album, and she plans to sing on his next one. Other party attendees included actors Luke Wilson, Chris Rock and Chris Noth.

Crow will be making several other spontaneous appearances at different clubs in New York while working on her new album. Those who are lucky enough to catch a performance will be treated to a few new songs, some old hits, and a lot of covers. "I have such an amazing band," she said. "And between all of us we know every cover there is."

MIA SULPOR
(April 20, 2001)