THE LATEST on Celebrity Kanye West

John Mayer Praises Taylor Swift And Defends Kanye West

John Mayer talks with Access' Maria Menounos about collaborating with Taylor Swift on the song, "Half of My Heart," and how she doesn't realize how talented she really is. Plus, does he think Kanye was treated fairly after his outburst at the VMAs? (03:44) watch video »

On The Download: Kris Allen Is An 'Idol' Who Delivers

By Ivan Aldersen

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- I am very happy with "American Idol's" latest winner, Kris Allen.

The self-titled debut album from this year's "American Idol" is finally here and it is among the best first efforts ever of any of the "Idol" winners.

John Mayer On His Love For Taylor Swift & Giving Kanye West A Break

NEW YORK, New York -- John Mayer may be known for being a joker, but there's nothing funny about his admiration for Taylor Swift.

"There's something about Taylor that she would have been a star in any decade," John told Access Hollywood's Maria Menounos of the 19-year-old country-pop crossover sensation. "Taylor's like this fresh voice."

'Idol' winner Allen remains humble on new album

AP - Kris Allen knows he's not garnering as much attention as Adam Lambert — and that's OK with him. more »

Us Wrap: Is Blake Lively's Hairdo the New "Rachel"?

See what else is on our radar more »

"Idol" champ Allen's CD reflects life on the road

Reuters - "American Idol" champion Kris Allen, who once traveled the world on church missionary trips, took an equally wayfaring approach to record his new album, working in studios across the United States. more »

Taylor Swift On Her Big CMA Awards Night: 'It Felt Like A Dream'

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Taylor Swift is aglow over her four CMA wins.

"I feel like I'm walking around in a dream right now," the star, just 19, told Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell backstage after the event. "It's... the CMA Awards and four awards? I can't even believe that!"

Brad Paisley Wasn't Worried About Offending Kanye West At CMA Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Brad Paisley had no qualms about having a little fun at the expense of Kanye West at Wednesday night's CMA Awards, which he co-hosted with Carrie Underwood in Nashville.

"Him I wasn't worried about," Brad told Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell backstage at the awards show. "I didn't think I'd run into him back here."

Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift & More Take Swipes At Kanye West During CMA Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Country music took a couple of swipes at Kanye West's infamous September interruption of Taylor Swift at the MTV VMAs at Wednesday night's CMA Awards in Nashville.

Following Taylor Swift's opening number - a performance of "Forever & Always," which included a cameo by Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell -- CMA co-hosts Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley took the stage and ripped the rapper.

Kellie Pickler On Going Red: 'I'm Gonna Give Reba Some Company'

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Kellie Pickler made a splash on the CMA red carpet last night when she showed off her new red locks.

And the singer, who dyed her hair earlier this month, told Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell she was happy to join a famous country singer in the red club.