Now that the Orlando Magic have been...

Now that the Orlando Magic have been bumped from the NBA playoffs, Shaquille O’Neal will start focusing on his second rap album, which could be out later this year. This time Shaq, who’s done some foreign dates, may even do a small American tour. . . .

Mariah Carey is at work on a Christmas album. . . . Liz Phair is working on a new album, which is due Sept. 6 from Matador/Atlantic. . . .

The omnipresent Tony Bennett is teaming up with Shawn Colvin for a duet on the old Sinatra hit “Young at Heart,” for the soundtrack of the film “It Can Happen to You.” . . .

Wynonna Judd is starting to gather material for her next album, tentatively scheduled for early next year. . . .

Keith Richards will do a guest spot on country veteran George Jones’ album, a mostly acoustic collection coming in October. . . . Luther Vandross has just about finished an album of standards that is expected in the fall. . . .

Uncle Tupelo has broken up, citing “artistic differences.” Bassist Jeff Tweedy and drummer Ken Coomer have formed a band, National Dust, and guitarist Jay Farrar will either start a band or pursue a solo career. Both new acts will stay with Sire Records.*