No Comments Written by Jeff on May 20, 2012 – 7:27 pm

As Billboard’s second annual Battle of the Bands wound down last night (May 18), Magnum Ice Cream kept the Billboard Music Awards energy revved up with its private party-featuring Natasha Bedingfield-at Hard Rock Hotel club Body English. The room’s relaxed, warm vibe-accented by low-lit chandeliers and roomy banquettes-underscored the ice cream company’s slogan: “For Pleasure Seekers.”

While a female DJ spun tunes from Chic and Adele to Maroon 5 and Nikka Costa, guests indulged themselves with hors d’ouevres and Magnum-inspired cocktails (including the Magnumscene Pleasure Seeker with Prosecco and absinthe; White Indulgence with Bacardi Superior and Godiva white chocolate liquor). Also in plentiful supply were samples of Magnum Ice Cream, thanks to ice cream carts situated around the club and silver tray-bearing servers.

Then, introduced by Prometheus Global Media CEO and Billboard Music Awards co-executive producer Richard Beckman, Bedingfield and her tight-knit band took command of the venue’s small, intimate stage. With a nod to Magnum’s slogan, Bedingfield delivered a rousing, hour-long performance.

Among the invited guests spotted in the audience was EMI/Capitol singer/songwriter/producer Josiah Bell and his actress wife Jurnee Smollett (“Friday Night Lights,” “Eve’s Bayou”). In the midst of recording his debut album, Bell has also been collaborating on songs for Willow Smith, gospel artist Smokie Norful and Estelle.

● 05/19/12 – Billboard Music Awards Pré Party