Shadmehr Aghili, who probably pips Mr Asar as the best-known of the new generation of pop musicians, employs minders to shield him from adoring fans.

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He feels pop stars of his generation can be more effective through asserting their influence on politicians who are now in the same age bracket.

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Between the way she prowls around onstage and a fashion sense that combines bright 1980s colors and punk tatters, Miss O. is fast becoming a pop icon for the MySpace generation.

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