Parade

In 1967, 59 years ago today, Pink Floyd made their first television appearance. They performed “See Emily Play” on Top of the Pops, a BBC music program. “See Emily Play” was the group's second single, following “Arnold Layne."

The song, which was originally called “Games For May,” was written by Syd Barrett, who was the band’s original frontman. He claimed he was inspired by a girl he saw when he woke up in the woods after one of the band’s performances.

"I thought, gosh, that's nice, a song with my name, but I didn't think it was about me,” Emily Young, the woman whom many people believe the song was written about, told Mojo. “And I don't think it was now because Syd and me didn't have a love affair, and he didn't really know me. It could have been some other girl who played a part in his dream. It could have been Jenny, but Emily scanned better."

Nick Mason, the drummer for Pink Floyd, spoke about the song with Louder Sound. “The attraction of Emily is that, in some ways, it’s a jolly pop song,” he said. “But then there’s a slightly blue mood about it, the minor key. ‘Wistful’ is the word.”

When asked about the songwriting process for “See Emily Play,” Mason admitted the details were hazy. “Back then, we didn’t have a clear way of working, but we’d collaborate once presented with an idea and improvise until we got a song. Syd [Barrett] was prolific, and the subjects and sounds were a curious mix, but we were really happy to try anything. It was so interesting that Syd would write something folky like the 'Scarecrow' but also have a load of ideas and sounds to put into 'Interstellar Overdrive.'”

Related: 1964 One-Hit Wonder Became a No. 1 Song When the Singer Was Only 16

Unfortunately, Barrett was kicked out of the band in 1968 due to his erratic behavior. “It’s guesswork what happened,” Mason said. “It might have been a breakdown, the use of LSD… I think he wanted to go back to painting.”

Barrett went on to have a brief solo career before leaving the music industry in 1974. He died in 2006 of pancreatic cancer. He was 60.

If you've ever strolled down Main Street, U.S.A., and paused to look up at the iconic Disneyland Railroad station, you have probably noticed the charming, old-school sign tracking the park's "population."

For over a decade, that number held steady at a staggering 650 million. But on July 3, 2026, that familiar landmark quietly changed forever, cementing a historic moment that very few places on the planet can ever claim.

Right in the middle of its massive 70th Celebration, and on the literal eve of America's 250th anniversary, the Disneyland Resort officially entered the "billionaire" club, welcoming its honorary one billionth lifetime guest through the gates.

Related: Disneyland Just Dropped a Major Summer Offer—And It's the Perfect Excuse for a Nostalgic Stay

The best part of the entire historic milestone? The unsuspecting family chosen for the honor had absolutely no idea it was coming. Eight-year-old Andres Robles of Arizona was simply walking into the park with his parents, Alejandra and Jose, expecting a normal, fun day out to celebrate his birthday.

Instead, the family was immediately swept up to the train station platform for a surprise ceremony alongside Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Disneyland Resort President Jill Estorino to help unveil the park's brand-new, jaw-dropping marker: "Population 1,000,000,000."

Related: Disneyland Reveals Its Fall Lineup, and Spoiler—It's Wicked Fun

"Welcoming our one billionth guest is a remarkable milestone for Disneyland Resort and a testament to the generations of guests who have made this special place part of their lives," Estorino shared in an official statement. "For more than 70 years, Walt's original park has been a timeless symbol of Disney storytelling, where memories are made and shared, and we are honored to carry that legacy forward for guests today and for generations to come."

To ring in the monumental occasion, the birthday boy and his family were handed the keys to the ultimate VIP treatment for the day. Led by a private tour guide, their dream itinerary featured exclusive, bucket-list experiences that regular park goers spend lifetimes trying to secure.

This included an intimate tour of Walt Disney’s deeply personal, private apartment hidden away above the Main Street Fire Station, alongside front-row access to the resort’s newest heavy hitters—including the freshly debuted Soarin’ Across America attraction over at Disney California Adventure.

Related: This Moving Detail Hidden in Disney’s New ‘Soarin’ Across America’ Has Us Emotional

It is a milestone that beautifully mirrors the explosive growth of Walt Disney's original 1955 "impossible dream." What started as a single, handcrafted theme park carved out of the Anaheim orange groves has blossomed into a multi-park global powerhouse, complete with two world-class theme parks, three resort hotels, and the bustling Downtown Disney District.

As the park gears up to welcome its next billion fans, it is clear that the foundational magic hasn't shifted a bit. The milestone functions as a beautiful reminder of Walt's timeless promise that Disneyland will never be completed, continuing to reinvent itself through groundbreaking technology and meticulous storytelling as long as there is imagination left in the world.

Related: Disneyland Is Offering a Rare Evening Ticket Deal This Summer

Ask anybody who grew up in the late 1970s and early 1980s what they did on a Tuesday night, and they'd likely tell you it involved the entire family gathered in the living room watching Happy Days. The Ron Howard, Tom Bosley, and Marion Ross-starring sitcom began as a family comedy with the coolest supporting character on television: Arthur Fonzarelli, better known as "Fonzie," played by Henry Winkler. Originally introduced as a humorous addition to the Cunningham family's story, Fonzie's popularity exploded. By Season 2, the lovable greaser had overshadowed the Cunninghams and evolved from a side character into the heart and soul of the series.

Henry Winkler's Fonzie Named the Greatest TV Character of the 1970s

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/B6uZyTHnGEs

A new ranking has named the greatest TV character of the 1970s. Despite legendary characters like Archie Bunker, played by Carroll O'Connor, and Hawkeye Pierce from MASH*, played by Alan Alda, being in contention, Winkler's leather-clad tough guy earned the top honor. Here's why:

"What made Fonzie such a brilliant character was that he wasn't a stereotypical bad boy, as biker characters were often portrayed in the media. Instead, Winkler brought an effortlessly cool, kind, and sympathetic greaser to the screen. Even with slicked-back hair and a leather jacket, audiences connected with his charm and confidence. By adding depth to the humble and slightly vulnerable character, Fonzie drifted away from cliché, allowing future performers the freedom to play and explore beyond the expected. From loner to mentor, even if the character lived in the past, he was the epitome of the present."

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, Who Captivated Fans at the 1984 Winter Olympics, Names the Greatest Performance of His Career

Why Fonzie Became a Pop Culture Icon

At a time when television and film were shifting toward more youth-driven storytelling, Fonzie embodied a new kind of TV star. Cool, self-assured, instantly iconic, and known for catchphrases like "Ayyy!," Fonzie's leather jacket, motorcycle, and quiet vulnerability resonated because he balanced toughness with heart.

Unlike many rebellious characters of the era, Fonzie wasn't defined by intimidation or defiance. Instead, he became someone audiences admired for his loyalty, confidence, and willingness to help others. That combination made him one of television's most beloved and enduring characters.

How Happy Days Captured a Generation

As Americans navigated the post-Vietnam War and post-Watergate years, Happy Days became one of the ultimate comfort watches of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The nostalgic sitcom attracted massive weekly audiences and secured its place in television history, but it was Winkler's portrayal of Fonzie that became its defining image.

The character reflected an idealized version of America's past while offering viewers an escape from the uncertainty of the present. For many fans, Fonzie represented confidence, optimism, and a simpler way of life.

Fonzie's Legacy Lives On

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4UUGztknboI

Decades later, Fonzie remains one of television's greatest cultural touchstones. His influence can still be seen in modern sitcom characters who blend humor with emotional depth, while his signature look and catchphrases remain instantly recognizable across generations.

Perhaps that's why Arthur Fonzarelli continues to define what it means to be effortlessly cool. After all, not everyone could walk into a diner, smack a jukebox with a single fist, make the music start playing, and become a television legend.

Related: 1966 Western With a Legendary 15-Minute Showdown Was Just Named the Greatest Blockbuster Western of All Time

🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Say what you want about Bettina Trump’s politics, but the new Mrs. Donald Trump Jr.’s style isn’t up for debate. The Palm Beach socialite’s effortless chic looks are always on-point—from her bespoke silk Safiyaa wedding slip dress that gave major Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy vibes to the sleek black Elie Saab ensemble she wore for UFC Freedom 250 at the White House, the president’s daughter-in-law just doesn't miss.

With events galore leading up to and including the country’s 250th birthday, Bettina has been on the go and showing up in style. So what has Don Jr.’s new bride worn recently? Here are a few of her standout summer looks:

Father’s Day Weekend at Camp David View this post on Instagram

The Trump clan spent Father’s Day weekend at Camp David, and Bettina was photographed in a classically elegant (and surprisingly simple) white tank and flowy striped skirt. But that wasn’t the best ‘fit of the trip. Her lacey white button-down shirt dress (paired with a black bow-tied belt) stole the show. 

The Maiden Flight of the New Air Force One (L/R) Eric Trump, Donald Trump Jr., and Bettina Trump look on as US President Donald Trump speaks to the press before he boards Air Force One. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)

Several of the president’s children, along with key members of his administration, boarded the brand-new Air Force One for its first flight. Bettina’s tailored cream pants and a matching tunic top were the perfect pairing for this historic event. 

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Dedication  Donald Trump Jr. (R) and his wife Bettina Anderson stand on the tarmac of Bismarck Municipal Airport before boarding Air Force One as they travel with US President Donald Trump to Bismarck, North Dakota, July 1, 2026. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)

Bettina jetted off to North Dakota to attend her father-in-law’s speech, and again paired a tastefully chic dress (a tan tea-length design with spaghetti straps) with a slim black bow-tied belt. And yes, it does look strikingly like the same accessory she sported at Camp David.

Donald Trump’s Mt. Rushmore Speech Donald Trump Jr. with his wife Bettina Anderson. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)

Trump (Bettina, that is) channeled a different Kennedy in her Mt. Rushmore event look. This time, the first daughter-in-law wore a red skirt suit reminiscent of Jackie O.

Donald Trump Jr. with his wife Bettina Anderson returning from Mt. Rushmore. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)

While Bettina donned a leg-baring mini on the way to the event, she switched things up, pairing the red three-quarter-sleeve jacket with fun floral capris and flats on the way home. 

The Great American State Fair WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 03: Donald Trump Jr. walks with his wife Bettina Trump as they visit the Great American State Fair on the National Mall. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Mr. and Mrs. Trump Jr. walked the fairgrounds, both looking completely casual. Bettina wore a basic, fitted white tee and jeans, yet somehow didn’t blend in with the crowd. 

Washington, D.C., July 4th 

What did Bettina wear to July 4th at the White House? Not a flashy flag-covered outfit. Instead, she chose an understated, summery, white strapless dress accented with a thin white-and-gold belt!

One of the most iconic songs from Willie Nelson's discography almost didn't make it on to the album.

"Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," one of the signature hits from Nelson's catalog, helped put him on the map and cement his breakthrough on the country music scene, even though his record label initially had reservations about his version of the song.

According to Wide Open Country, Columbia Records was skeptical of Nelson's stripped-down rendition of the song, which still ended up making it onto his concept album Red Headed Stranger in May 1975. By July of that year, the label ultimately agreed to release the song as a single — a decision that would unexpectedly launch Nelson into mainstream success.

The song soared to the top of Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart, becoming the first No. 1 hit of Nelson's career. It also peaked at #21 on the Billboard Hot 100, and later secured Nelson his first Grammy win for Best Country Vocal Performance in 1976.

To this day, with more than 20 No. 1 country songs under Nelson's belt, "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" is still regarded as one of the defining songs of his career. Rolling Stone named it as the No. 1 Best Willie Nelson Song and ranked it #27 on the list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.

Even though the timeless track is frequently associated with Nelson, he actually wasn't the original singer or songwriter behind it.

Originally written by Fred Rose in 1945, "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" was first sung by Roy Acuff in 1947, and it had already been covered by several other stars, including Conway Twitty (1970) and Elvis Presley (1976), before Nelson put his spin on it.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Related: Powerful Country Song, Inspired by an American Tragedy, Became a 5-Week No. 1 Hit

If you're a child of the ’80s or ’90s who remembers the distinct click of a plastic VHS tape sliding into the VCR, you might want to start looking at flights to Southern California immediately.

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has just revealed a spectacular lineup of afternoon programming for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, happening in Anaheim from August 14 through 16, 2026. And to say that the schedule leans heavily into heart-warming, pure childhood nostalgia is an understatement.

The absolute crown jewel of the newly announced slate is the Disney Rewind Concert, which is being billed as the ultimate throwback musical event. Designed to completely relive the magic of "VHS vibes," this live mixtape concert will feature the very best Disney hits of the 1980s and 1990s.

Related: Disney Just Announced a Massive, Retro-Chic Revamp of a Beloved Classic Attraction

View this post on Instagram

The setlist will span everything from the pop-star energy of Powerline (hello, A Goofy Movie fans!) to the classic Saturday morning tunes of the Disney Afternoon block and the gospel-infused harmonies of the Muses fromHercules.

To bring these nostalgic anthems to life, Disney is assembling an elite cast of Broadway and animation royalty backed by full rock-concert lighting and massive, larger-than-life visuals.

The lineup includes Jared Dixon, Alyssa Fox, Arielle Jacobs, Josh Strickland, and Raena White, alongside highly anticipated special appearances by Disney Legends Bill Farmer, Jodi Benson, and 2026 Legend recipient Susan Egan. The concert officially premieres at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 14, with a second encore performance scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 15.

Related: Disney's New Class of Legends is a Total Love Letter to Our Favorite Childhood Memories

If that wasn't enough to make you emotional, the weekend concludes on Sunday, August 16, at 6:00 p.m. with A Whole New World of Alan Menken. This rare, one-man concert event features the eight-time Academy Award-winning Disney Legend sharing the iconic songs—and the intimate personal stories behind them—that shaped generations of music lovers.

Menken will perform his legendary work from historic animated features like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Pocahontas and Hercules, alongside his celebrated stage and screen musicals.

Beyond the headlining musical events, the convention center show floor and panels will be packed with historical retrospectives tailored for lifelong fans. On Friday, guests can attend Walt Disney: 125 Years of Inspiration to salute Walt Disney's 125th birthday milestone with performances and stories from those who knew him, or check out 20 Years of Enchanted: A Love Letter to Disney hosted by director Kevin Lima and Nina West, which features an Easter egg-filled tribute using rare items straight from the Walt Disney Archives.

On Saturday, Worlds of Tinker Bell: Never Land to Pixie Hollow will explore the magical evolution of everyone's favorite fairy since 1953, and Sunday brings Searching for the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House, where artist Kevin Kidney shares rare details from his real-world journey to the original 1960 island filming locations.

Related: My Dad Hadn't Been to Disney World Since the '80s—So We Planned an '80s-Style Nostalgic Trip Back

The best news for fans who haven't locked down full weekend plans yet is that Disney has made experiencing these afternoon events surprisingly accessible. Afternoon-Only Fan Passes for Friday, Saturday and Sunday are still available for just $49, alongside full-day Sunday Fan Passes for $99. These passes grant access to the main stages as well as the massive, interactive show floor activations, including the immersive Disney+ Hulu Experience and sneak previews of upcoming features like Frozen 3 from Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Whether you want to belt out the lyrics to your favorite childhood cartoon theme songs alongside Broadway stars or listen to Alan Menken play the first chords of "Beauty and the Beast" live on a piano, your August travel calendar just got a lot more magical. Tickets can be secured right now by visiting the official event portal at D23.com.

Related: How to Score Disney D23 ‘Fan Superbowl’ Tickets Today Before a Total Sell-Out

Another week is here! Can you believe it? We’re now into the dog days of summer, with the heat intensifying. All you want to do is sit back and relax, and the books releasing on July 7 make that easy!

There is something for everyone, with thrillers for a Summerween vibe and romance for those must-have beach reads. There’s even a highly anticipated sequel to one of the best romantasies of the decade, so you can guarantee that your sleep schedule will be well and truly disrupted.

Courtesy of HarperCollins ‘The Brides’ by Charlotte Cross

Before Dracula, there were the Brides. And there were meant to be four of them, not the three that we know from the stories. The Brides by Charlotte Cross takes us into the dark tale, starting off in 1884 with Mafalda Lowell as he travels to Budapest to help her recently widowed aunt.

When she writes to her secret lover, Lucy North, about the chilling truth about her uncle’s death, Lucy decides to travel to Budapest with her former school friend Eliza and lady’s maid Alice. That’s when things take a turn, as Alice is beset by nightmares, and there’s a black-clad man following them. The story is also told through physician reports in 1903, as Sir John Seward relives being one of Count Dracula’s survivors.

Courtesy of HarperCollins ‘Hide & Seek’ by Søren Sveistrup

You’ll know Søren Sveistrup for his television series The Killing. Now it’s time for his psychological thrillerHide & Seek, which is going to have you second-guessing that innocent children’s game!

When a woman starts to get messages repeating the childhood rhyme “Count to one, count to two…” she questions who could send them. Then she disappears! Now Detectives Naia Thulin and Mark Hess need to get to the bottom of the disappearance, which brings a terrifying turn that is linked to a decades-old cold case. Can they stop this violent killer before he strikes again?

Courtesy of Putnam ‘We Will See You Bleed’ by Ron Currie Jr.

Need another perfect read for Summerween? We Will See You Bleed by Ron Currie Jr. is the next on the list, set in the summer of 1984 in Waterville, Maine. The town is on the verge of collapse, and with everyone broke and exhausted, it’s neighbor against neighbor.

Babs has been through this before, and she took a dark turn to survive then. She refuses to become that woman again, but she may just need to. The women of the town need her to be the merciless creature that came out of the woods drenched in blood 15 years earlier. It is worth reading The Savage, Nobel Death of Babs Dionne first, but that’s not necessary to enjoy the crime thriller.

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Star-Crossed Summer’ by Devon Daniels

With summer love and a second-chance romance, Star-Crossed Summer by Devon Daniels is the perfect beach read. It follows a Hollywood starlet reunited with the co-star who broke her heart, and, of course, their chemistry is off the charts. Just how much of it is real?

Scarlett Everhart fell hard for Ryder Perry when they filmed The Lost Letter 10 years earlier. While they enjoyed an off-screen romance, it ended with shattered hearts. Well, Scarlett’s shattered heart, and she is determined to never think of that time again. Only when Ryder is thrust back into her life do things take a turn, but is this the right time for a second chance at love?

Courtesy of MacMillan Publishers ‘Pretty Dead Things’ by Kelsey Cox

When it comes to thrillers, Kelsey Cox excelled with Party of Liars. Now she’s back with her second novel, Pretty Dead Things, and it’s perfect for those who love stories from multiple POVs, pageants, and unreliable narrators. It does take some time to get into at first, but once you’re into the mystery, you’ll be hooked.

Set in 2025, a small town is getting ready for the Lone Star Princess Pageant. Everyone is excited, but they also can’t help but think about the events from 25 years ago. The night of the same pageant, Isabelle Whitmore went missing, and then her sister just left town. Now, Ingrid is back, and it looks like secrets are about to be revealed. Will Ingrid get answers about what happened to her twin sister all those years ago?

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Our Wicked Gifts’ by Kathryn Foxfield

The cover for Our Wicked Gifts by Kathryn Foxfield immediately gives me Clue vibes, and it’s just a hint of the style of book you’ll get to read. However, there’s also a mixture of House of Hollow and Succession thrown in, as the daughter of a sinister magical family needs to stop the man who is killing them off.

Cicely was always the black sheep of the family, and Soren was the boy her family banished ot the underworld when making a deal with the devil. When Cicely’s Uncle Dorian turns up murdered, Cicely knows that she has to try everything possible to save them. However, is family worth it? What happens as she gets to know more about Soren?

Courtesy of Simon & Schuster ‘Helpless’ by Jessica Knoll

If you’re in the mood for something similar to Misery by Stephen King, then Helpless by Jessica Knoll is the book for you. This story takes place 12 years after Faye left her college boyfriend behind. Now she’s back, and while she knows she hurt Henry, she didn’t think he would ever drug and kidnap her.

Now, Faye finds herself in a remote mountain cabin. Henry is out to punish her for her actions years earlier, especially for writing an episode of TV based on their breakup. Just how reliable is Faye as a narrator, though? Did she embellish the truth, or is Henry a danger to her and others?

Courtesy of Ace, a Penguin Random House imprint ‘The Exquisite Torment of Loving Your Enemy’ by Brigitte Knightley

If you loved The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy, then you’ll be more than ready for the sequel. The Exquisite Torment of Loving Your Enemy by Brigitte Knightly picks up right where the first book left us. Osric is struggling with his feelings for Aurienne, as they both continue to find a cure for his seith rot.

However, there are many more issues. After all, Osric killed to protect Aurienne, and people are looking out for his victim. If his secrets come out, it could mean the end of everything for him, including his life. At the same time, it could cause problems for Aurienne, as she tries to get to the bottom of the deadly pox deliberately unleashed.

Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘An Infinite Love Story’ by Chanel Cleeton

Sometimes, you just need a tale of love and loss, and that’s something The Infinite Love Story by Chanel Cleeton offers. It’s a story told in the past, with the backdrop of the Space Race. It’s 1968, and Joe Mitchell has launched into space. His wife, Vivian, is home with everyone else, watching and waiting for his return.

However, when there’s a knock at the door, Vivian gets the news no astronaut wife wants to get. Her husband’s spacecraft lost contact, and everyone onboard is feared to be dead. As Vivian looks back at her memories with her husband, she finds herself unable to accept the truth. Something has happened, and her husband needs her help; now she needs to get to the bottom of it, especially when she starts to get strange messages that only Joe could send.

When the Grammy Award for Best New Artist was announced in 1992, Marc Cohn wasn't considered the obvious favorite.

Just one year after the infamous Milli Vanilli scandal cast a shadow over the category, the Cleveland-born singer-songwriter walked away with the award thanks largely to one unforgettable song: "Walking in Memphis."

The hit also earned Grammy nominations for Song of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance, launching a career that has quietly endured for more than three decades. Decades later, author Brent Mann named "Walking in Memphis" as the greatest one-hit wonder of all time in his book "99 Red Balloons and 100 Other All-Time Great One-Hit Wonders," a testament to the song's remarkable staying power.

Related: One of Rock’s Most Underrated Voices Turns 76 Today

As Cohn celebrates his 67th birthday on July 5, it's worth remembering that the man behind one of the most beloved songs of the early 1990s has lived a life every bit as remarkable as the music he created.

Cohn's Heartbreaking Loss

Long before success arrived, Cohn experienced unimaginable tragedy. His mother died when he was just 2 years old. His father died when he was 13.

Related: Legendary Rock Band Is Back on the Charts 53 Years After Forming

Growing up in suburban Cleveland, music became both an escape and a source of comfort. He immersed himself in artists like the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Van Morrison and the Band, eventually learning guitar before teaching himself piano while attending college. The losses he experienced as a child would later become a quiet thread running through many of his most personal songs.

Success didn't come overnight

He played coffeehouses around Los Angeles, worked as a session musician, sang in cover bands and even played piano on Tracy Chapman's 1989 album Crossroads. For years, he wasn't sure he'd written the songs he was capable of writing.

Related: Rock Icon Who Vanished at the Height of Fame Turns 78 Today

A Trip to Memphis Changed Everything

Inspired by advice he'd read from James Taylor encouraging young songwriters to "do a geographic" by traveling somewhere new, Cohn headed to Tennessee hoping simply to reignite his creativity.

"There was no sense until the very end of the trip that there might be a song in there," he recalled in a 2022 interview with Songwriting Magazine.

Related: The Tour That Made Fleetwood Mac Superstars Almost Tore Them Apart: ‘We Were Lucky to Get Out Alive’

During that visit, Cohn attended a church service led by the Reverend Al Green and later spent an unforgettable evening at the Hollywood Cafe, where he met gospel singer and pianist Muriel Davis Wilkins—the famousi Muriel named in "Walking in Memphis."

The two talked for hours about music, faith and Cohn's childhood, including the deaths of his parents. At the end of the evening, after they sang "Amazing Grace" together, Wilkins leaned over and quietly told him:

"Child, you can move on now. Your mom is with you." Those words stayed with him.

Within days of returning to New York, Cohn sat down at the piano and wrote "Walking in Memphis," a song he has described as being about far more than the city itself.

"It's about a kind of spiritual awakening," he once said.

Related: The Greatest Guitar Solo You Can’t Hear Is Hidden in a 1980 Classic

While "Walking in Memphis" became Cohn's signature song, fellow musicians have often pointed to something even more distinctive: his voice.

Producer and guitarist John Leventhal once offered perhaps the greatest compliment a singer could receive when he said, "Marc could be singing the phone book and people would go, 'He's breaking my heart,'" according to Wayne Jancik’s “The Billboard Book of One-Hit Wonders."

That emotional honesty helped Cohn stand apart from many of his contemporaries. His debut album went platinum, earned him the Grammy for Best New Artist and launched a career that included acclaimed albums like The Rainy Season, collaborations with artists including David Crosby, Graham Nash, Bonnie Raitt and the Blind Boys of Alabama, and decades of touring.

Related: 1982 Rock Classic With One of the Greatest Drum Intros Ever Became a Grammy-Winning Hit

In 2005, tragedy struck again when Cohn survived an attempted carjacking in Denver after being shot in the head.

Doctors told him he was "the luckiest unlucky guy they had met in a long, long time." Rather than letting the experience define him, Cohn eventually channeled the trauma into songs on his 2007 album Join the Parade.

Then, in January 2025, he revealed he had quietly been living with Parkinson's disease for about five years, another challenge he has faced with characteristic grace while continuing to perform and write music.

Related: ’80s MTV Legend Announces Rare Reunion for 2026 Tour With A Ton of Special Guests

"I feel like it's time to tell you, my fans, what many of my colleagues, friends and family already know. About 5 years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease," wrote Cohn in a message to his fans on Instagram.

He added, "But the good news is this: I’m doing everything I can to stave off Parkinson's progression, and with those efforts, I have been able to continue playing shows for you all. Some nights have been more difficult than others, but there were moments of healing and deep gratitude for my ability to stand at the microphone and continue to do the job I love so much. ... I plan on continuing to do shows for as long as possible. Come meet us on the road somewhere."

For an artist who once wondered whether he'd ever write the songs he dreamed of writing, that's a fitting legacy. On his 67th birthday, Marc Cohn remains far more than a one-hit wonder. He's a gifted storyteller whose most famous song opened the door to a career defined by resilience, empathy and the rare ability to make listeners feel every word.

Related: 1982 Classic, 'Detested' by the Band, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you're struggling to keep up with nail trends as you age, don't fret. For women over 40, there are several specific nail polish colors worth checking out. When applied, they can help your hands stay looking young and your manicure looking luxurious. We spoke with celebrity nail artist Alex Jachno to get her expert tips on these best nail shades, finishes and shapes for women over 40.

Jachno has worked with stars like Sarah Paulson, Ellen Pompeo, Jessica Biel and more, so she has a lot of experience crafting flattering manicures for women 40 and older. She says that you can still have fun with your nails past 40, as long as you're keeping them looking their best.

"Healthy, well-maintained nails will always have a bigger impact than following arbitrary age rules," she says, adding, "One of the biggest misconceptions is that women over 40 need to stick to safe or boring nail colors. I actually think this is the time when many women feel most confident in their personal style and are less concerned with trends for the sake of trends."

So, for Jachno, it's all about choosing colors "that make you feel put together and reflect your personality," and she has seven favorite shades for you to check out.

Related: Your Perfect Manicure, According to Birth Month

What Are the Best Nail Colors for Women Over 40?

"I gravitate toward rich, classic colors," Jachno tells Parade.

She adds, "The shades that tend to look the most luxurious are the ones that have depth and elegance without screaming for attention ... [It's] less about what’s trending and more about choosing colors that feel timeless and confident."

She includes nude shades, classic reds and even pops of plum or navy as good options.

"Don’t be afraid of color," Jachno says. "I don’t think there’s a certain age where you suddenly have to switch to beige nails. A flattering nail color is one that complements your skin tone, feels like you and makes you happy every time you look down at your hands. Sometimes that’s a nude and sometimes it’s a bold color."

Related: The Faded French Manicure Trend Is About to Hit Hard—Here’s How to Get It

Top Nail Colors for Women 40+

• Best Sheer Pink Nail Color:Chanel Le Vernis in Ballerina
• Best Cherry Red Nail Color:Chanel Le Vernis in Pirate
• Best Brick Red Nail Color:Manucurist in Brique
• Best Rich Berry Nail Color:Londontown Lakur in Elderberry
• Best Sheer Nude Nail Color:Dior Vernis in Nude Look
• Best Rosy Mauve Nail Color:OPI Nail Lacquer in Barefoot in Barcelona
• Best Navy Nail Color:Essie in Infinity Cool

Why Certain Nail Polish Shades Can Make Hands Look Older

"Certain nail polish shades can emphasize redness, discoloration, veins or texture in the hands which may make them appear older," Jachno says.

She lists chalky whites, dull grays, muted greens and cool-toned blues as potential shades to stay away from. "They can make the skin look washed out or accentuate the blue, purple and green tones naturally found in veins," she explains.

However, she adds that you shouldn't be afraid of color entirely, sharing, "The key is choosing shades that bring life to the hands rather than drawing attention to discoloration or texture."

Related: The #1 Thing a Nail Technician Wishes Clients Asked More Often 

How To Choose the Most Flattering Nail Color for Your Skin Tone

"The best way to choose a flattering nail color is to look at your hands and pay attention to what the color is doing to your skin," says Jachno. "Does your skin look brighter, more even and more vibrant? The right shade should make your hands look healthy and refreshed rather than drawing attention to things you’d rather not emphasize."

Jachno adds that it's particularly difficult to find the right nude shade for your skin tone, so she recommends holding the bottle a few inches from your hand to see how it looks.

"If the nude seems to disappear completely, it may be too close to your skin tone and can sometimes make the hands look flat," she says, adding, "If it creates a harsh contrast, it’s probably too light, too dark or the wrong undertone. The best nude isn’t the one that matches your skin perfectly it’s the one that makes your hands look their healthiest."

Ultimately, Jachno says you can often look to the colors you already feel comfortable wearing, explaining, "If you consistently reach for certain clothing colors, lip colors or jewelry, that’s often a clue as to what nail shades will look best on you."

Related: The Viral Manicure Everyone’s Asking For—And Why It Flatters Every Age

The 7 Best Nail Colors for Women Over 40, According to a Celebrity Manicurist

These specific seven shades are great for women over 40, an expert explains—here's why.

1. Best Sheer Pink Nail Color: Chanel Le Vernis in Ballerina, $34

Chanel

Shop It at Chanel

Jachno says that sheer pinks are one of those shades that "tend to be especially flattering and timeless."

2. Best Cherry Red Nail Color: Chanel Le Vernis in Pirate, $34

Chanel

Shop It at Chanel

Another Chanel shade Jachno loves is this red hue. "Classic cherry reds are beautiful options that feel modern and confident," she tells Parade.

3. Best Brick Red Nail Color: Manucurist in Brique, $14

Amazon

Shop It on Amazon

If a cherry red feels a little too bold for you, Jachno also recommends trying other "sophisticated reds like this brick red option.

What's cool about this polish, too, is that it's made from 84% plant-based ingredients as part of the brand's "green" line.

4. Best Rich Berry Nail Color:Londontown Lakur in Elderberry, $16

Amazon

Shop It on Amazon

Jachno also loves "rich plums" and burgundies for a "polished and elegant" look. This berry shade she recommends for women over 40 would make for a striking manicure.

5. Best Sheer Nude Nail Color:Dior Vernis in Nude Look, $34

Dior

Shop It at Dior

Jachno also loves "a beautiful sheer nude," especially one that "complements your skin tone." This option she selected by Dior is universally flattering for various skin tones.

6. Best Rosy Mauve Nail Color:OPI Nail Lacquer in Barefoot in Barcelona, $13 

Amazon

Shop It on Amazon

Another nude shade Jachno likes is this OPI option. It fits into the "rosy mauves" hue range that she likes to see on women over 40.

7. Best Navy Nail Color: Essie in Infinity Cool

Essie

Shop Similar on Amazon

Jachno says that "deep navy shades" are perfect "for those who love a bolder look" over 40. This polish is currently unavailable online (though you can find it on secondhand marketplaces like eBay and Mercari), but any true navy shade you have on hand can work. And you can shop the brand's current blue shades on the Essie website.

What Nail Shapes Look Best on Mature Hands?

"I tend to prefer softer, slightly elongated shapes like oval, almond and squoval for women over 40," says Jachno, explaining that those shapes help create a lengthening effect that looks "effortlessly elegant."

What Nail Polish Finishes Look the Most Expensive and Sophisticated?

"When I think of expensive nails, I think of a smooth, glossy finish," Jachno says. She adds that she thinks of nail care like skin care.

"Just as hydrated skin with a healthy glow tends to look more youthful and luxurious, nails with a smooth surface and creamy, glossy finish have that same effect," she tells Parade. "They catch the light beautifully and instantly look polished and well cared for."

How To Make Your Manicure Look More Modern and Polished

"As we age, the nail plate can develop more ridges and dryness, which is why prep becomes even more important," Jachno says. She recommends the ePhD nail treatment that "improves the condition of the natural nail, creating a smoother canvas for polish while supporting nails as they grow longer, stronger and more beautifully."

"Expensive looking nails aren’t chipped, peeling or constantly breaking," she adds. "Many people assume they need extensions to achieve an elegant look, but healthy natural nails at a beautiful length can be just as chic."

Up Next:

Related: The Clever Nail Cuticle Trick We Wish We'd Known About Sooner

Source:

• Alex Jachno, celebrity nail artist who has worked with stars like Sarah Paulson, Ellen Pompeo, Jessica Biel and more.

If you love peanut butter and chocolate and you’re a Nutella fan, you’ve probably wished they could all come together in one jar. And now they have.

Nutella Peanut has arrived at Sam’s Club, and it’s already earning plenty of praise from fans. The launch is especially notable because Nutella Peanut is the brand’s first new flavor in 60 years, combining peanut butter and cocoa into the familiar creamy spread that’s perfect for toast, sandwiches, fruit, crackers, waffles, and even ice cream.

It’s currently available in a two-pack that includes two 26.5-ounce jars for $12.98, making it an easy addition to the pantry for everything from quick breakfasts to after-school snacks and sweet treats.

It was spotted in store by @samsclubfavorites on July 2:

@samsclubfavorites

🥜 Nutella Peanut Spread is NEW and I found it at Sam’s Club as a two pack! It’s a peanut spread with cocoa, so think Nutella meets peanut butter in the best possible way. 🍫 These are limited time only so grab while you can! ($12.98) #samsclub #samsclubfinds #nutella

♬ original sound - Sam’s Club Favorites Sam’s Club Shoppers Are Loving Nutella’s New Peanut Spread

Photo by Imad 786 on Unsplash

Early reviews suggest Nutella may have another hit on its hands. The spread currently holds a 4.8-star rating from 94 reviewers, with shoppers praising its flavor, texture, and versatility.

One reviewer called it an “amazing fusion” and said the peanut butter ratio was “just right.”

“The first taste was awesome; the next ten bites were heaven. The peanut butter ratio was just right. It wasn’t overtly sweet, which I love. And then your taste buds are flooded with that amazing hazelnut-chocolate flavor. I cannot stop eating it. So tempting!”

Another shopper described the spread as the “perfect balance of savory and sweet” and said they found themselves using it on everything from bread and crackers to fruit and ice cream.

Families appear to be fans as well. One reviewer wrote, “Nutella peanut spread with cocoa is delicious! All five of my kids loved it!” Another added, “Even my daughter, who doesn’t like peanut butter, loved this spread. We will for sure repurchase.”

According to Nutella, the new spread combines roasted peanuts with the brand’s signature cocoa flavor, creating a versatile topping that can be enjoyed on toast, pancakes, waffles, muffins, fruit, and more.

With strong early reviews and a flavor combination that brings together two longtime favorites, it’s easy to see why shoppers are excited about the latest addition to the Nutella lineup. Whether you spread it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, dip fruit into it, or enjoy a spoonful straight from the jar, Nutella Peanut looks poised to become a pantry staple alongside the brand’s classic hazelnut spread.

More than three decades after beginning his journey in country music, Kenny Chesney is once again making headlines on the charts.

The country superstar’s latest single, “Carry On,” has entered the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 100, marking another major career milestone 35 years after he began performing regularly in Nashville clubs in 1991. 

The achievement comes as Chesney launches a new chapter in his career with Hey Now Records and prepares to release his upcoming studio album, Silver Sands Marina.

Released on May 8, 2026, “Carry On” is Chesney’s first solo single since 2024’s “Just to Say We Did.” The song quickly gained momentum at country radio and among listeners, helping push it onto multiple Billboard charts. Along with reaching the Hot 100, the track peaked at No. 29 on Hot Country Songs and No. 12 on Country Airplay.

Kenny Chesney performs onstage during the 59th Annual Country Music Association Awards at Bridgestone Arena on Nov. 19, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for CMA

The chart appearance adds another accomplishment to a career that has already produced millions of album sales, dozens of hit singles and some of the biggest tours in country music history.

Chesney’s latest success is especially notable considering how long he has remained a force in the genre. After graduating from college, he moved to Nashville and worked his way into the local music scene. In March 1991, he passed an audition to sing at The Bluebird Cafe and later became a regular performer at a local honky-tonk bar.

That path eventually led to a recording contract and the release of his debut album, In My Wildest Dreams, in 1994. Since then, Chesney has built one of country music’s most successful careers, selling more than 30 million albums worldwide and earning numerous industry honors.

“Carry On” has become one of the most talked-about country releases of 2026. The song was co-written by Jessi Alexander, Matt Jenkins and Chase McGill, while Chesney co-produced the track alongside Buddy Cannon. Originally recorded by Pryor & Lee in 2021, the song found new life through Chesney’s interpretation.

The track also generated a historic response from country radio. During its first week, all 158 reporting stations added “Carry On” to their playlists. That gave Chesney the biggest add day of his career and made the song just the third in Mediabase history to receive support from every reporting station during its debut week.

Moreover, the success of “Carry On” follows several landmark moments for the singer.

In 2025, Chesney was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, recognizing a career that has spanned more than three decades. He also joined Hey Now Records in March 2026 as the flagship artist for the newly launched independent label.

The song’s positive message, combined with its strong radio performance, has helped fuel its early chart success. A music video directed by Shaun Silva was also released in May, featuring Chesney in Key West alongside local artist and sailor David Wegman, per Country Now.

Thirty-five years after arriving in Nashville and performing in a modest honky-tonk, Chesney is still reaching new audiences, collecting new chart achievements and adding another chapter to a career that continues to evolve.

Related: Country Star With Major No. 1 Hit Announces New Song

If you love the thrill of a massive drop but hate the stomach-churning feeling of looking at your bank account after buying a theme park ticket, it is time to shift your vacation radar toward a historic lakeside escape in New England.

According to the newly released 2026 HomeToGo Theme Park Index—which tracked 40 of the country’s top amusement parks across more than 20 states—you don’t have to drop a fortune to satisfy your inner thrill-seeker.

While mega-resorts routinely cost small fortunes for a family weekend, the vacation rental marketplace analyzed entry fees, online advance parking rates, and nearby nightly accommodation costs to find the ultimate budget-friendly escapes.

Snagging the coveted number-one spot on the list is none other than Quassy Amusement Park in Middlebury, Connecticut.

Related: Six Flags Debuts First-of-Its-Kind Regional Monthly Membership Program

View this post on Instagram

Situated right on the beautiful shores of Lake Quassapaug, this historic gem completely dominated the index with an unbeatable total daily cost average of just $76.43 per person. For context, that includes a median nightly lodging cost of $34.03, an advance online single-day ticket price of $33.00, and a budget-friendly $9.40 parking fee.

But don't let those low prices fool you into thinking you are sacrificing the fun. Quassy is home to the legendary Wooden Warrior, a critically acclaimed wooden roller coaster that coaster enthusiasts frequently rank alongside the biggest names in the industry. It packs an incredible amount of airtime punch and a heart-pounding tunneled turnaround, making it the perfect focal point for a classic summer road trip.

Related: This State Just Ranked No. 1 for Family Road Trips—And It's Not Florida

If you're looking to expand your budget-conscious travel bucket list beyond Connecticut, the index revealed a fantastic mix of regional parks that keep the fun high and the costs low. Coming in at number two is Fun Spot America in Orlando, Florida, averaging a total daily cost of $117.56. It is a brilliant alternative for Orlando travelers, boasting free parking and the record-breaking White Lightning, which stands as Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster.

Rounding out the top five most affordable spots in the United States are Castles N' Coasters in Arizona ($129.63), Wild Adventures in Georgia ($131.84)—famed for its suspended Swamp Thing coaster that swoops directly over real alligators—and Six Flags Frontier City in Oklahoma ($131.87).

Further down the top 10, a few other notable fan favorites made a strong showing for summer vacations. Massachusetts’ own Six Flags New England landed gracefully at number seven ($134.79), offering easy proximity for local travelers alongside massive steel giants.

Meanwhile, the beloved Holiday World & Splashin' Safari in Indiana claimed the number-nine spot ($142.53), winning major points with families by offering entirely free parking alongside world-class coasters like The Voyage and the record-breaking Mammoth water coaster.

Whether you're plotting a quick weekend getaway to ride a historic New England coaster or packing up the car for a classic family road trip across the country, this year's index proves that you can chase big thrills on a small budget.

Related: JetBlue Launches 'Theme Park Experts' to Simplify Your Orlando Vacation Planning

Bad Company was one of the biggest rock bands of the 1970s, and their music remains timeless five decades later. But in 1976, the opening song for the band’s third album, Run With the Pack, almost had a very different sound.

Written by founding Bad Company frontman Paul Rodgers, the title track kicked off with a piano intro and an understated guitar riff before launching into lyrics about freedom and belonging. The song also featured a string arrangement at the end, composed by musician and producer Jimmy Horowitz.

“I wrote that song on the piano, and when I played it to the guys they fell right in,” Rodgers once said in an interview posted on the official Bad Company website. “In my head, the strings were always a part of the song. Jimmy Horowitz came around to the studio session with a tape recorder in hand and while the track was playing, asked me how I wanted the strings in the background. I sang the part that I had been hearing in my head and he went off and wrote it up.”

RELATED:1976 No. 1 One-Hit Wonder Was Written in Five Minutes

Though never released as a single, “Run With the Pack” received massive radio airplay and helped propel the Run With the Pack album to No. 5 on the Billboard 200 album chart.

In 2014, Rodgers named Run With the Pack as his favorite Bad Company album after the band’s iconic 1974 self-titled debut, per Rhino Records.

'Run With the Pack' was almost a different title track

Rodgers originally wrote an alternative version of “Run with the Pack” – then forgot all about it.

In a video posted to Bad Company’s YouTube, Rodgers recalled that making the album Run With the Pack was “a constant searching for ideas that would work for the band.”

“I was always looking for that song, a song that would be a single, an album title. In fact, I came up with the idea of a song called ‘Run with the Pack’ because I thought that was what we were doing,” he shared. “I wrote a song, and I promptly forgot it. So I wrote another one, and we recorded that by the same title, and it became the title track of the album.”

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Rodgers revealed that after recording the second song, he then remembered the original version about “facing a new dawn” and feeling something “pushing when you push it back.”

The music legend added that his forgotten song included the lyrics, “Running. Running. Running. Running with a pack. You can make it. So get out there and shake it. And don't let them take it away.”

“So that was the other version. And I suggested we do this too, but we'd already recorded this title track, and we couldn't really use two,” Rodgers explained. “So that was the result of that.”

It all worked out. “Run With the Pack” remains one of Bad Company’s best-known anthems 50 years later, and it’s hard to imagine it any other way.

Related: ‘70s Glam Rockers Had a Top 5 Hit in 1976—40 Years Later, It Proved It Stood the Test of Time

Before Dolly Parton became one of the most recognizable voices in music, her rise to superstardom included a tense and highly publicized dispute with her longtime collaborator, Porter Wagoner.

Ultimately, that moment would reshape her career.

On July 5, 1979, reports surfaced about an ongoing legal dispute between the two country music stars, tied to a $3 million lawsuit that Wagoner had filed against Parton, 80. At the center of the conflict was a business partnership that had helped launch Parton into national prominence during the late 1960s and early 1970s, when she joined Wagoner’s popular television program and recording projects.

Parton later claimed she had signed the original 1970 agreement under what she described as "mental intimidation," a statement that underscored just how complicated their professional relationship had become after years of working closely together.

According to Parton, the situation escalated further when Wagoner allegedly tore up their agreement in front of her, an act she viewed as effectively voiding the deal and marking the end of their formal partnership.

While the legal dispute drew attention at the time, the long-term impact of the split proved far more significant than the courtroom drama itself.

Parton had already begun establishing herself as a solo artist by the mid-1970s, but the fallout from her working relationship with Wagoner is often seen as the moment she fully stepped into her independence, both creatively and professionally.

What followed would become one of the most successful solo careers in country music history, with Parton evolving into a global icon known not only for her songwriting and voice, but for her business savvy and artistic control.

Wagoner, meanwhile, had played a major role in introducing Parton to a national audience, often performing alongside her in a partnership that was as influential as it was ultimately complex. Their collaboration produced several hit recordings and helped define a sound that bridged traditional country with a more modern crossover appeal.

Looking back, the dispute is now less remembered for its legal details and more for what it represented: the moment Parton transitioned from rising star to fully independent force in the music industry.

RELATED: Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Born in the U.S.A.’ Once Named Billboard’s No. 1 July 4 Song

If your travel daydreams revolve around exploring hidden coastal alleyways, tasting your way through local night markets, and learning behind-the-scenes secrets from world-class experts, Oceania Cruises just handed you the ultimate reason to pull out your 2027 calendar.

The luxury, food-focused cruise line has unveiled its highly anticipated 2027 Specialty Cruises lineup, and the headliner has us ready to pack our bags right now.

Emmy Award-winning travel icon Samantha Brown is officially hosting a spectacular 10-day Mediterranean voyage from Trieste to Barcelona, sailing November 7, 2027, aboard the gorgeous Oceania Allura.

Known for her incredibly warm, down-to-earth approach to exploring the world, Brown will be stepping off the television screen to share her personal insights, hosting engaging conversations, and encouraging guests to look past the typical tourist tracks to connect with the local history, people, and character of these iconic European cities.

Related: How To Book Your First Cruise, According to Samantha Brown

From top left to right: Sara Moulton, Claudine Pépin, Eric Barale and Alexis Quaretti. Bottom Left: Samantha Brown.

Oceania Cruises

"Our 2027 Specialty Cruises represent the pairing of port‑rich itineraries with hosts who bring true depth, access and perspective," said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. "Each voyage has been created to connect guests more meaningfully with the cultures they're exploring through experiences that are only available on these specialty sailings."

While sailing the Adriatic with Samantha Brown is a massive draw, the rest of the star-studded roster leans heavily into Oceania’s legendary reputation for serving up the finest cuisine at sea.

Food lovers can join renowned chef, author, and PBS television host Sara Moulton for an in-depth 14-day Baltic culinary journey departing London on June 8, 2027, aboard Oceania Marina. Moulton will be leading culinary demonstrations, hosting exclusive events, and even helming a special gala brunch.

Related: This Luxury, Adults-Only Cruise Line Just Dropped the Ultimate 2027 'Coolcation' Itineraries

Later in the fall, James Beard Award winner and president of the Jacques Pépin Foundation, Claudine Pépin, takes the wheel for an 11-day roundtrip Tokyo voyage aboard Oceania Riviera starting September 30, 2027.

Pépin will guide travelers through the rich traditions of Japan, even joining guests on select shore excursions to blend the country's cultural landscapes with its incredible food scene.

Rounding out the specialty calendar are two more remarkable Mediterranean departures. The program launches on June 2, 2027, with a 13-day Culinary Luminaries cruise from Athens to Rome aboard Oceania Vista, led by Oceania’s own Master Chefs of France, Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale.

Finally, the year wraps up on December 6, 2027, with the annual Reunion Cruise aboard the newly launched Oceania Aurelia—a festive, 12-day celebration bringing together loyal past guests and first-time cruisers for elegant events hosted alongside senior executives.

Whether you want to swap travel stories with Samantha Brown over a glass of local wine or watch a master chef whip up a regional masterpiece right before your eyes, these host-driven sailings are bound to fill up fast.

Related: Cruise Fans Can’t Stop Talking About the New Oceania Allura—Here’s Everything to Know

40 years ago today, pop and R&B artist Janet Jackson hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart with her iconic album Control.

Jackson launched into a season of success with the release of Control. “What Have You Done For Me Lately?” and “Nasty” from the album both became Top 10 singles, and — as the sister of Michael Jackson — the record was co-produced by her family.

When Jackson began working on Control, she had just divorced James DeBarge and set out to write songs that drew from her personal life. She went to Minneapolis and began recording with producers James “Jimmy Jam” Harris III and Terry Lewis.

“She had a beautiful voice, first of all,” Harris recalled, according to NPR. “When she was young, she had all this attitude. She was like Miss Attitude. ... And so our thought was if we could work with her, we could bring a little bit of that attitude out.”

Lewis described her in only a few words: “Fearless, relentless, beautiful. Like a beautiful texture, and very in control.”

He said that some people thought she wasn’t the best at singing. However, Lewis called her “a great singer.”

“In order to be a great singer, you don't have to be the loudest singer,” Lewis recalled. “You just have to have control of what you like to do. And to me, style wins over volume.”

Control sold nearly 14 million copies and was certified platinum five times. Harris said that they wanted the album “to be that album that everybody’s blasting out their house.”

“We were going for the blackest, funkiest album we could make,” Harris said.

Last week, Jackson made a surprise appearance at the BET Awards, stunning in a black and white look. The 60-year-old artist wore a veiled fedora, which Page Six said “could’ve been plucked from her sibling’s closet.” She presented Teyana Taylor with the Icon of the Year award, leading to an emotional moment between the two stars.

"I love you so much,” Taylor said to Jackson. “Thank you for every text, every hug, every talk. You are my biggest inspiration. You don't even understand, there would be no me without you."

“Way Down We Go” by Icelandic rock band Kaleo wasn’t a traditional chart-topping hit upon its release in 2015. However, it quietly built a second life as a global streaming phenomenon years down the line. 

The haunting track, released by the band in 2015 on their album A/B, mesmerizes listeners with its bluesy rock instrumentation and riffs. Frontman JJ Julius Son’s (Jökull Júlíusson) moody and soulful vocal delivery, combined with the song's brooding atmosphere and slow-burning intensity, made it a timeless and go-to choice for TV shows, movies, and commercials. 

While it didn’t break into the top of the Billboard Hot 100 upon its release, it quickly found traction on alternative and rock radio, forming a loyal audience. 

Cementing its legacy further was the repeated use across pop culture, as its cinematic sound made it a staple across TV and film, becoming a soundtrack to many emotionally-charged moments in hit TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Riverdale, Suits, The Walking Dead and The Vampire Diaries. 

Each note and lyric, paired with pivotal scenes and dramatic cliffhangers, introduced the song to new audiences and amplified its impact. Its second wave of success came through streaming and social media, as viewers who heard it on TV sought it out, driving a resurgence and millions of streams.

The single eventually topped Billboard‘s Alternative Songs airplay in 2016, with the blues-rock band becoming the third act of the year to “reign with its first charted song.”

A/B, Kaleo’s second studio album, and first to chart in the U.S., debuted and peaked at No. 3 and 4 on the Alternative Albums and Top Rock Albums charts, respectively, per Billboard.

What's even more impressive is that the group recorded their smash hit 400 fit underground inside the dormant magma chamber of Iceland's Þríhnúkagígur (Thrihnukagigur) volcano in July 2015. 

The band recently offered a deeper look at the recording of the 26-hour project, which required transportation via helicopter, along with audio gear being lowered via a small elevator. The result? An incredible and booming acoustic session that’s amassed over 15 million views on YouTube. 

"We have had the opportunity to perform in some iconic settings over the past 10 years. Here’s a closer look at how we brought Way Down We Go to life… from the mouth of a volcano,” the band captioned the video.

Fans were impressed, with one writing, “This song gives me chills man,” and another adding, “Way cool. The acoustics must have been amazing.”

View this post on Instagram

“So we're just gonna ignore the fact that they recorded this in a goddamn MAGMA CHAMBER just to get a special reverb effect that no one who hears the song in the radio will ever notice? That is what I call going the extra mile!” one commented. 

Years later, the tune is just as relevant as ever. Not only did it become one of the band’s signature songs, but it was also their breakout global hit, introducing them to a massive international audience. And it remains widely recognized as a breakout alternative rock anthem of the 2010s due to its cultural footprint across TV, film and streaming. 

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

If you happened to tune into NBC's TODAY show this morning, you likely caught a glimpse of something truly magnificent happening in the waters of New York.

To mark the spectacular milestone of America's 250th Independence Day, Cunard’s legendary flagship, the Queen Mary 2, dropped anchor in a prime position to serve as the ultimate floating stage for the historic Sail4th 250 transit.

The mega-event delivered the largest international maritime gathering in United States history, turning the harbor into a breathtaking tapestry of global unity and old-world seafaring charm.

Lucky guests aboard the luxury ocean liner were treated to unrivaled, front-row views of the International Parade of Sail, which saw more than one hundred vessels—including 46 magnificent tall ships representing twenty different nations—glide gracefully from the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge past the Statue of Liberty and up the Hudson River.

Related: The World's Most Famous Ocean Liner Where Royalty and Rockstars Once Ruled the Atlantic Sailed Her Maiden Voyage 57 Years Ago Today

View this post on Instagram

The high-seas pageantry was matched by a massive military flyover overhead. Led by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels and featuring a special international appearance by the Royal Air Force Red Arrows, more than 150 aircraft roared across the New York skyline before a glittering display of evening fireworks lit up the iconic Manhattan backdrop.

The historic day carried an extra layer of deep emotional significance for Cunard, as July 4th officially marks the anniversary of the company's very first transatlantic crossing. On July 4, 1840, the line's historic first ship, the RMS Britannia, departed Liverpool for Boston to launch the world's first regularly scheduled transatlantic steamship service.

Ever since that defining moment 186 years ago, Cunard has maintained a continuous maritime connection with the United States, even carrying an estimated one in five immigrants to North American shores between 1840 and 1923.

Related: Why This Legendary Ocean Liner Just Launched the Ultimate Free Cruise Sweepstakes

"Queen Mary 2 is an iconic ship, and she represents the transatlantic story itself," shared Katie McAlister, President of Cunard. "To have her at the heart of Sail4th 250 on such a significant day felt incredibly special, with New York as the backdrop and our guests enjoying a front-row view of the celebrations. Over the years, our Queens have welcomed well-known names from film, music and the arts, and that sense of occasion is part of what makes sailing with Cunard so distinctive. From Elizabeth Taylor to Audrey Hepburn and Ed Sheeran, people have chosen Cunard for landmark journeys, and it felt fitting to see Queen Mary 2 taking centre stage in New York for this historic occasion."

The grand ship earned high praise from local organizers on the ground as well, cementing her status as a permanent, beloved fixture of New York’s deep maritime history.

"The participation of Queen Mary 2 in these festivities as the most elegant hostess for her guests made the commemoration of American independence most meaningful for our international partnerships," said Chris O'Brien, President of Sail4th 250 New York. "The sight of this magnificent ocean liner amidst all the pageantry and camaraderie in New York Harbor created indelible memories for a new generation of young sailors and families. She will always be welcome in our waters."

Whether you were watching the live broadcast at home with Jenna Bush Hager reporting straight from the ship’s decks or looking out at the water from the harbor shoreline, the historic rendezvous proved that some travel traditions only grow more beautiful with time.

Related: Why Everyone Is Swapping the Mediterranean for a 'Coolcation' Cruise This Summer

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

You don't want to be the person who has to change their shoes midday because they're super uncomfortable. Prevent having to keep another pair of footwear in your purse by investing in reliable styles in advance. One of our favorite go-to brands is Clarks, because they're known to be supportive, stylish, and perfect for all day wear. Luckily, JCPenney is selling the Clarks Merliah Bali Wedge Sandals for 50% off. 

The sandals originally cost $100, but have been reduced to just $50 in a limited-time doorbuster sale. The footwear is being sold in white and black, which is ideal for something that's in need of an everyday shoe that matches with everything. The sizes range from 5 to 12, including half sizes, and come in wide and medium widths. The shoes run slightly large, so it's recommended to consider a smaller size than your usual. 

Clarks Merliah Bali Wedge Sandals, $50 (was $100) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

Shop at JCPenney

These sandals are running out of stock quickly, with the wide offering currently available in just the white hue, so you'll want to add them to your cart sooner rather than later. The shoe design features a rounded toe, 2-inch platform heel, classic hook and loop closure, and an adjustable strap that you can alter to your comfort. The sandals feature gold- or silver-toned hardware, depending on which color you choose. 

Clarks Merliah Bali Wedge Sandals, $50 (was $100) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

Shop at JCPenney

There are three straps that cover the top of the foot and one back strap that keeps the heel secure during movement. The sandals are made of 100% leather with a lightweight foam polymer as the insole. The insole has targeted cushioning, which shoppers say provides "excellent arch support," "great flexibility," and relieves pressure on the foot. 

Other shoppers said that the sandals are "perfect for summer wear," and "very easy to keep clean" with "good traction" on uneven surfaces. Another reviewer wrote that they owned these sandals for eight years before purchasing a new pair. They're "very comfortable," "super lightweight," and don't need a break in period, so they're basically the ideal sandal. 

Related: JCPenney’s 'Classic' $25 Freshwater Pearl Necklace Is an 'Elegant' Addition to Summer Outfits

Shoppers love these sandals so much that they're purchasing both colors. Since they're versatile, they'll upgrade your look in a simple and chic way. Add these stylish Clarks sandals to your JCPenney cart while they're 50% off!   

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

When Huey Lewis and the News released Sports in 1983, few could have predicted the album would become one of the defining records of the decade.

Powered by hits like "Heart and Soul," "I Want a New Drug," "The Heart of Rock & Roll," and "If This Is It," the album eventually sold more than 10 million copies in the United States alone. Two years later, "The Power of Love" helped turn Back to the Future into a cultural phenomenon, cementing Huey Lewis as one of the most recognizable stars of the MTV era.

As Lewis celebrates his 76th birthday on July 5, it's a fitting time to look back at a career that was built on craftsmanship, perseverance and an unmistakable voice that never quite received the critical acclaim it deserved.

Long before he topped the charts, Lewis was hitchhiking across Europe with little more than a harmonica. He busked on street corners in Spain, earning enough money to continue traveling, and later recalled learning to play while waiting for rides across America.

Music wasn't originally the obvious career path. Lewis earned a perfect 800 on the math portion of his SAT, attended Cornell University as an engineering student and excelled as a baseball player. But college couldn't compete with the pull of music. He eventually left Cornell and returned to California because, as he later told the San Francisco Chronicle, "it was all happening" there.

His first major band, Clover, found only modest success, though it led to memorable collaborations with artists like Nick Lowe and Elvis Costello. Lewis later joked in a 2013 interview with Rolling Stone that on Costello's debut album, "All the harmonica that isn't on the Elvis Costello record was played by me."

'Sports' Changed Everything

By the early 1980s, Huey Lewis and the News had already released two albums, but the future was uncertain.

"We knew we had to have a hit," Lewis told Rolling Stone. "There was only one avenue to success, and that was to have a hit record."

That urgency shaped Sports. Lewis said the band wanted to blend classic R&B influences with modern production, explaining, "Our style was to take something old and make it modern."

The gamble paid off. Sports produced four Top 10 singles, reached No. 1 on the Billboard album chart and became one of the best-selling albums of the 1980s. It transformed the band into arena headliners and made Lewis one of the decade's biggest stars.

'Back to the Future' Took Things to Another Level

Lewis's career was catapulted into the stratosphere in 1985 when filmmakers approached him about contributing music to a new movie centered around a teenager whose favorite band was Huey Lewis and the News.

That film was Back to the Future and it introduced millions to "The Power of Love," which became Lewis's first No. 1 hit. He also wrote "Back in Time" for the film and made a memorable cameo as the school official who rejects Marty McFly's band by declaring they are "just too darn loud."

Looking back, Lewis recalled being flattered when director Robert Zemeckis and producer Steven Spielberg explained that Marty McFly's favorite band would be Huey Lewis and the News.

Facing Life's Toughest Challenge

In 2018, Lewis announced that he had been diagnosed with Ménière's disease and could no longer hear well enough to perform.

"I was virtually deaf for two months," he told Relix in 2020. "It was unbelievable, horrible."

Rather than shelving the songs the band had already recorded, they released the EP Weather.

"We're particularly proud of these seven," Lewis said. "We thought, 'Why not share them with our fans?'"

Lewis has remained candid about the realities of hearing loss. Although a cochlear implant later restored enough hearing for conversation, he has acknowledged that he is unlikely to perform music ever again.

Still, his legacy has only grown. From his 2025 induction into the People's Music Hall of Fame to the Broadway musical The Heart of Rock and Roll, the songs he helped create continue to find new audiences.

On his 76th birthday, it's worth remembering that while Huey Lewis may never have been critics' favorite frontman, he became something arguably more important: the voice behind some of the most joyful, enduring and instantly memorable songs of the rock era.

Related: Michael J. Fox Reveals Surprising Rock Legends Who Picked Up Guitar After 'Back to the Future' (Exclusive)