*The Illinois Supreme Court has denied an emergency motion from news organizations seeking sealed court records and transcripts related to R. Kelly's child pornography case.

       According to the Associated Press, the court made its decision Monday without offering any comment.  The 41-year-old singer's trial is scheduled to begin Friday with jury selection.      

       The motion – filed by the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and The Associated Press – requested that the Supreme Court order the Cook County Circuit Court to unseal the records immediately. Judge Vincent Gaughan has said he's trying to protect Kelly's rights and prevent information from influencing prospective jurors.       

       The artist has pleaded not guilty to charges that he videotaped himself having sex with an underage girl.