Bonnie McKee is a bundle of contradictions. When she released her 2004 debut album, Trouble, the Seattle-raised singer was firmly stuck in the world of sugary, mainstream pop, but she also revealed hints of cleverness in songs such as “Sensitive Subject Matter” and “Confessions of a Teenage Girl.” Her own career hasn't crossed over into massive popularity, but McKee has co-penned numerous hits for Katy Perry (“Roar,” “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream”), Britney Spears, Ke$ha and Carly Rae Jepsen. As her compositions rise ever higher in the charts, much of McKee's early wit and intelligence has been airbrushed away in favor of glossier production and more predictable lyrics and hooks. On her bubbly recent video for “American Girl,” celebrity pals including Taio Cruz, Adam Lambert, Kelly Osbourne, Jepsen and Perry return past favors with guest appearances.

Tue., May 13, 6 p.m., 2014
(Expired: 05/13/14)

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