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Viola Davis Was Just Named 'Most Fabulous Gen X Actress'
Everyone’s favorite EGOT has received yet another honor — this time representing her iconic generation.
But first, a quick note about Gen X. In Hollywood, age 40 was once considered the expiration date for actresses. AARP’s Movies for Grownups recently upended said unwritten rule.
On Thursday, September 10, the magazine unveiled its 25 Most Fabulous Gen X Actresses, featuring a list of stars — now roughly 45 to 61 — who built production companies, stepped behind the camera, fought for equal pay and are doing the most fearless work of their careers.
Viola Davis, 61, tops the list, with a special AARP The Magazine digital cover created in her honor (see below). Rounding out the top five are:
- Charlize Theron
- Halle Berry
- Penélope Cruz
- Drew Barrymore
AARP took to social media on Thursday to unveil its new list, with the Fences Oscar-winner as its No. 1. “I see myself as brave. But when I say brave, I have the ability to survive the hard stuff. I can do the hard stuff,” reads the Instagram post’s caption, quoting the magazine’s interview with Davis. See below.
View this post on InstagramFans have since flooded the reel’s comments section to show their love and support for the renowned performer. “Fabulous, strong, smart, talented woman! Viola Davis is marvelous!” wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, “Such a beautiful person inside and out!”
One of six children, Davis grew up rummaging through garbage cans for food and living in condemned, rat-infested apartments. “I grew up in abject poverty,” she told AARP’s Movies for Grownups. “There was no evidence of greatness in my life. So I had to have magic… I had to dare to ask the big, big question: ‘What if, Viola? What if there’s something out there for you?’”
What those years gave her, she said, was resilience. “I have the ability to survive the hard stuff.” Find out more from Davis’ interview and see the full list of Gen X actresses here.
Who Went Home on 'Big Brother 28' Tonight? Week 9 Live Eviction Results (Spoilers)
After eight weeks of ruling the roost, the icons are finally in the line of fire. Angela Murray, Dee Valladares, and Rick Devens sit on the block, put up by HoH Barrett Pfeiffer in one of the biggest betrayals of the season. And while the reality TV alums were able to wiggle their way out of previous tight spaces, one of them is guaranteed to hit the road and head off to the jury house. We’ll update this story throughout the night as the Block Buster and eviction results are revealed.
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Who was eliminated on Big Brother 28 tonight? Angela Murray Angela Murray on ‘Big Brother 28’Evan Mulling/CBS
Angela Murray was evicted for a second time after 66 days in the game. The Season 26 standout was in a noticeably better position in her return, dominating the majority of the game with the other icons. Even when she was nominated against Dee and Devens, in theory, she seemed to be locked in to survive the week. But her number one ally was able to put in an effective campaign as a wepon for Taylor and Yash, leading to Angela’s exit from the house (and prompting an impassioned speech from her on the way out).
Evan Mulling/CBS
For the second week in a row, Devens went into the Block Buster needing to win or else he’d easily get evicted. And, for the second week in a row, he did just that, acing a tricky puzzle to ensure he made the Final Seven.
The Week 10 Head of Household won’t be revealed until Sunday’s episode. But stay tuned for our upcoming spoilers post if you want to find out what goes down on the live feeds until then!
Dolly Parton's Sister Shares Surprising Makeup Secret
Dolly Parton’s sister just revealed something pretty shocking about the queen of country. According to Stella Parton, Dolly’s full face of glam wasn’t just for the cameras.
In a recent interview for CBS Mornings with Gayle King, Stella shared, “She would sleep in her makeup when she’d come spend the night with me.”
Even though the public rarely (if ever) saw her without makeup, Stella did add, “Oh, I knew what she looked like. She looked like me without her makeup. So I knew what she looked like without it.”
After Stella’s recent interview, CBS Mornings posted a clip of the conversation on Instagram. Dolly’s fans were quick to react, sharing, “Love this, loved Dolly and love you, Stella!”, “Dolly was one in a million”, “There are a few photos without her makeup, and she was gorgeous. Regardless,” and “Loved Dolly, but she was just as gorgeous without makeup.”
View this post on Instagram Dolly Parton Talks about Her Beauty RoutineThis isn’t the first time someone has brought up Parton’s look. Back in 2019, Dolly talked to CBS Sunday Morning about her beauty routine, revealing, “My look is a country girl’s idea of glam. I wasn’t naturally pretty, so I make the most of anything I’ve got.”
“You should have seen me this morning before I got ready to see you. I’m serious though. I’m not like a natural beauty. But I can enhance it, though. Whatever it takes. I do, I try to make the most of everything,” she added.
The following year, the country icon said, in a video she made for Vogue, “I know that I always like to wear a lot of makeup. More than probably I should wear. But I think more is more and whoever made up that less is more is full of it.”
After gaining fame, Dolly had her choice of posh products. But in her earlier years, the then-would-be star had to get creative. Parton detailed the ways she whipped up her own cosmetic creations in her 2023 book, ‘Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones,’ writing, “I’d find ways to create my own makeup with pokeberries and stuff that grew wild in the fields. I think all people that grow up in the mountains learn how to improvise with what you don’t have.”
Parton continued, “I would strike Mama’s old kitchen matches to make eyebrows and my neauty mark. Still, I find myself mixing and matching different makeups for different colors.”
NFL Star Slams President Trump in Barrage of Podcast Rants: ‘Total Sham’
Just when you think you know the plays in Aaron Rodgers’ playbook, you have to reevaluate like a defensive coordinator.
The future Hall-of-Fame quarterback teased retirement at the conclusion of last season, only to reunite with his first head coach Mike McCarthy as a starter in a twist of fate for what both hope to become a fairytale ending to an illustrious, decades-long career.
But before the first game of his final season kicks off this weekend, the ‘enigmatic’ gunslinger let it rip verbally before throwing dimes on the gridiron.
Related: President Trump Stepped Off Air Force One Looking Noticeably Different: ‘Very Pierce Brosnan’
No one seemed to be off-limits, except his family—a huge surprise given his past public estrangement, especially with his parents and celebrity brother, Jordan Rodgers of The Bachelorette fame.
He detailed past breakups with now retired racecar driver Danica Patrick and recent Emmy award-winner Shailene Woodley, who may have received the biggest blow of all.
The biggest surprise dig was aimed at President Trump, given some of the high-profile figures he’s rubbed elbows with, such as Tucker Carlson, Joe Rogan, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—all self-admitted Trump voters in the 2024 election—plus, his not-so-shy vitriol for Dr. Anthony Fauci.
Chopping it up with teammate Cam Heyward on his podcast Not Just Football, Rodgers likely gave his buddy a ratings boost with the barrage of rants he unleashed, claiming Woodley told him she wanted to sleep with another man during their engagement and that Patrick struggled with depression and a lack of intimacy during their relationship.
As for the president, and the state of politics in general, Rodgers didn’t mince words.
“There’s no MAGA movement. There’s no Make America Great Again movement. Because the guy you elected hasn’t done any of his campaign promises, and eventually you realize nothing’s actually going to change,” Rodgers said.
He didn’t spare the other side of the aisle either, questioning whether former President Barack Obama’s promise of “hope and change” ultimately improved Americans’ lives before taking aim at politics as a whole.
“Politics is a total sham,” Rodgers said, later adding, “This is a big psy-op. The whole thing. Politics is a crazy psy-op.”
Trump has been no stranger to a war of words with public figures, especially with Rosie O’Donnell. The podcast episode (Part 2) was released on Sept. 10, so time will tell if this turns out to be another name added to the president’s growing feud list.
Umm…play ball?
'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' Season 6 Is Officially Happening — Minus One Original Star
It’s staggering to think we’re already five seasons into a show that only started two years ago. But The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has certainly made hay while the sun shines as, after its first blockbuster season, the continual adventures of “MomTok” have made people like Taylor Frankie Paul, Whitney Leavitt, and Jen Affleck household names. Season 5 was the show’s shortest yet, running a mere five episodes. Could that be a sign of the end times? Or is it simply an appetizer in the Mormon menu?
Here’s everything to know about The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Season 6, including if it was renewed, cast, and who has left the show for good.
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Yes! The news of SLOMW Season 6 was confirmed back in August, when cast member Layla Taylor spilled the secret during an appearance on Hulu’s Get Real podcast. As she told host Amanda Hirsch, “We’re not done with Season 5, and we’re filming for Season 6 right now.” The same day, Deadline reported that Hulu had renewed the series for an additional 20 episodes, which would presumably be distributed across Seasons 6 and 7.
Who will be in the cast of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Season 6?While the cast of SLOMW has not been announced for Season 6, we can assume all our MomTok leads will be back, with one big exception:
Jen Affleck Jessi Draper Mikayla Matthews Mayci Neeley Taylor Frankie Paul Layla Taylor Miranda Hope Will Taylor Frankie Paul be in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Season 6?Paul started SLOMW as essentially the main character, the so-called “leader” of MomTok. But she was rarely seen in Season 5, though her absence is understandable given how everything timed out. Season 5 primarily takes place over the course of Paul filming her season of The Bachelorette, which at this point has never seen the light of day due to footage that surfaced two days before the season was supposed to air, depicting her throwing a metal stool that incidentally hit her daughter. The video not only shelved the season, but also halted production of SLOMW as well.
Given the heat on Paul at this moment, including investigations into the 32-year-old, it wouldn’t be surprising to have her not come back to the show. However, according to information Page Six received from an insider, it seems that she allegedly will indeed be making a more full-throated return for Season 6. What that return might involve, on the other hand, is a completely different matter entirely.
Related: Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen’s Relationship Timeline — And What Led to Her ‘Bachelorette’ Firing
While Paul will be returning to reality TV, one of the show’s stars will not: Leavitt. It’s not a huge surprise, given the show’s original villain admitted she would not have returned for Season 3 if she felt it wouldn’t give her a better shot on Dancing with the Stars. Indeed, Leavitt went on to not only appear on the ABC dance competition alongside Jen Affleck, she was able to parlay that into a stage career. Since her time on DWTS, she has starred as the lead in Chicago, and will be doing a six-week stint in the winner in Just in Time. Additionally, she’ll be tapped into the ballroom this fall, as her husband Conner Leavitt is set to make his own go for the Mirror Ball.
The day before the SLOMW Season 5 premiere, Leavitt confirmed her departure in an Instagram post. “Tomorrow, my final season of SLOMW airs,” she wrote. “Five years of my life wrapped into an experience I’ll never be able to fully put into words. To the women I shared this chapter with, regardless of where our relationships stand today, there will always be something that connects us when our paths cross. We shared an experience that is uniquely ours, and nothing can take that away.”
“More than anything, I’m leaving this chapter with gratitude,” she continues. “For every version of us, every lesson, every memory, and every person who made these five years what they were. I’m really grateful I got to live it with you. My ‘forever momtok,’ I love you.”
Related: Meet Whitney and Conner Leavitt’s 3 Kids—And Revisit the TikTok Controversy Involving Their Middle Son
Given that Hulu picked up SLOMW for a 20-episode order, it’s safe to assume that Season 6 will consist of at least 10 episodes. Seasons 2 through 4 have all run at least 10 episodes, with Season 5 only lasting five due to the filming pause from the investigations into Taylor Frankie Paul.
When will The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Season 6 be released?Since the first season, Hulu has been committed to putting out two SLOMW seasons a year. That means we should expect, barring any changes, Season 6 to come out at some point in the first half of 2027. The other two spring seasons aired in May and March, so there’s no succinct window of when we’ll have more MomTok in our lives.
Related: How Much the ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Stars Make and Who Has the Highest Net Worth
1974 Tragic Song by Jackson Browne Is Still a Powerful Hit 52 Years Later
While Jackson Browne has undoubtedly penned countless poignancy-drenched tracks, one of the prolific singer-songwriter’s most heartbreaking tunes is “For a Dancer” off his 1974 album, Late for the Sky. In a 2021 interview with Route magazine, Browne explained the 1974 song came out of a tragic circumstance, sharing that the subject of “For a Dancer” was “a friend of [his] who died in a fire.”
“He was the brother of a really good friend of mine, somebody that I was close to, and he was an outlier, like a person connected to our scene, but he didn’t make music himself. But he was very creative. I wrote ‘For a Dancer’ because when he died, that was the only way I could process it,” said Browne, now 77.
Browne then said the song has transformed into how he remembers his late wife, Phyllis Major, who died via suicide in 1976 when she was 30.
“And then it wasn’t until many years after that I realized that the song had traversed in my life and had become about her,” said Browne, who shared his son, Ethan, who died in 2025 when he was 52, with Major.
Browne went on to say that he has “sung that song for so many people whose family members have died.”
“People recognize their own loss in that, and so, what I realize is that the songs may originate with me talking about my life, but by the time they’re a song, they’re actually about other people’s lives. And you hope that there’s something universal in them,” said Browne during the 2021 interview.
Jackson Browne Shared Insight Into How He Writes His Songs During a 2025 PanelDuring a 2025 Q&A panel with fans for Star Sessions, Browne shared some insight into how exactly he comes up with and crafts his songs. The “Doctor My Eyes” singer revealed that he usually “wait[s] ’til the end of the day” to start putting pen to paper.
“When everything else is done, and everything’s out of the way, and then I might go to work at 9 or 10 at night or maybe 1:00 in the morning,” said Browne.
He also said he’ll often make recordings on his iPhone if he comes up with a melody or lyric throughout the day, so he can remember his ideas for later.
In addition, Browne shared that “most of [his] ideas come from making a mistake that interests [him].”
“If you’re playing something and you do something, you go, ‘Oh, what was that?'” continued Browne during the fan panel.
'Daughters of 9/11': CBS Special Explores Lasting Impact & Fight for Justice (Exclusive Clip)
A CBS special, Daughters of 9/11, will air on the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers—and in it, the adult kids of two men who died are demanding justice.
On Friday, Sept. 11, CBS will air the two-hour special, which follows the stories of Elizabeth Miller and Jessica Trant, who both lost their fathers on 9/11. Their dads were Douglas Miller, a New York City firefighter, and Daniel Trant, a former pro basketball player who worked as a bond salesman at Cantor-Fitzgerald on the 104th floor of the North Tower.
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Additionally, Daughters of 9/11 features FBI Special Agent Frank Pellegrino, who spent over a decade hunting the alleged mastermind behind the attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed (KSM). The documentary explores the question: How can the man who confessed to planning and carrying out the terrorist attacks still not face justice?
Ahead of the special, CBS shared with Parade an exclusive sneak peek of its cold open. “9/11 isn’t over. The 9/11 case is not over,” a woman said in a voiceover. Trant then pointed out, “There is a man who is responsible sitting in Guantánamo Bay.”
That’s when a man claimed of KSM, “He admitted it in a written confession: ‘I was responsible for the 9/11 operation from A to Z.’ He said, ‘I did it.’ And still, not one single person has been tried and convicted for 9/11.”
However, KSM’s confession was ruled inadmissible in a pending trial.
‘Daughters of 911’: CBS Special Explores Lasting Impact of World Trade Center Attack (2:14)“In every moment of joy, there’s sadness because my dad’s not there,” Miller shared.
She added, “If Pellegrino had picked up Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, 9/11 probably never would have happened,” of the FBI agent—who had been pursuing KSM since 1993 due to his alleged connection to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Miller then turned to Pellegrino and said, “I cannot imagine the guilt and grief that you carry.”
At the end of the clip, Miller said, “I want the 9/11 case to be closed. And for me, that’s a plea deal.”
However, Trant declared, “I want the death penalty. I want to see him not breathe another day.”
Miller concluded the clip by pointing out, “It’s a disservice to us both, and it’s a disservice to the American people that this is still ongoing.”
Daughters of 9/11 airs on Friday, Sept. 11, from 9 p.m. ET ot 11 p.m. ET on CBS; it will be available to stream on Paramount+.
Next: “Judge Judy” Sheindlin Announces Major Career News Marking End of an Era
1996 Hit Album, Whose Single Knocked 'The Macarena' From the No. 1 Spot, Turns 30 Today
Thirty years ago today, on Sept. 10, 1996, Blackstreet put out Another Level.
Two months later, one song off it took the No. 1 spot from a record that had been sitting there since the summer. That song stopped “The Macarena.”
On the Hot 100 dated Nov. 9, 1996, “No Diggity” moved from No. 3 to the top and “The Macarena” dropped from No. 1 to No. 4. It had been up there 14 weeks, and on the chart for 47.
“No Diggity” held No. 1 for four weeks, per Billboard, and stayed on the chart 31.
The climb was quick. “No Diggity” entered the Hot 100 on Oct. 12 and was sitting at No. 1 four weeks later.
Billboard ran a photo of the group in early October, on a break from shooting the video for it. They had not gone out on the road yet either. That started at the end of the month, after the single was already climbing.
“The Macarena,” by contrast, had been on the chart since September 1995.
The Album Never Got That HighAnother Level peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and sat on that chart 60 weeks without ever spending one of them at the top. The single outran the album it came from.
Blackstreet put ten songs on the Hot 100. Three reached the top 10. Exactly one went to No. 1, and it was this one, with Dr. Dre on it.
Teddy Riley Called ItThree weeks before the album came out, Billboard ran a piece on what Blackstreet was about to release. Teddy Riley, the group’s founder and producer, told the magazine what he was going for.
“We’re taking our music to a higher plane,” he said.
By November “The Macarena” was at No. 4.
Next: 1973 Song by the Prince of Motown Was a No. 1 Hit on 2 Charts, 53 Years Ago Today
1985 Michael Caine Movie, With a Big Fat 0% on Rotten Tomatoes, Became a Cult Favorite Connected to Rock Royalty
Michael Caine is widely considered one of Britain’s most iconic and successful cultural and acting exports. But even he isn’t immune to the occasional critical misfire. Water, a chaotic and sun-drenched political farce produced by George Harrison’s HandMade Films, is one of those duds, currently holding a dismal 0% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes.
But here’s where the story gets interesting: The audience score sits at a far more favorable 70%, suggesting fans saw something in Water that film reviewers either couldn’t or wouldn’t.
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View this post on InstagramWhen Water premiered in London in January 1985, it made a brief appearance in the U.K. box-office Top 10 before quickly falling away. The movie eventually premiered in the U.S. in April 1986, but still to poor box-office numbers. Over the decades, however, audiences came to appreciate the former Beatle’s comedy for its eccentric, nostalgic charms, and memorable reggae-heavy soundtrack.
Directed by Dick Clement, Water is set on Cascara, a fictional, laid-back Caribbean island and forgotten remnant of the British Empire. When an American drilling company strikes a massive underground reservoir of ultra-pure “designer” mineral water, which happens to be a natural laxative, the island becomes a global hot spot for money-grubbing vultures. As Cascara’s pot-smoking British governor, Caine then spends the reel trying to keep the locals from being exploited.
A “hangout movie” akin to Spaceballs, Revenge of the Nerds, Porky’s, and Weekend at Bernie’s, Water showcases a hazy, feel-good atmosphere injected with deadpan and slapstick humor, with a masterclass cast, including Sir Caine, Leonard Rossiter, Billy Connolly, Fred Gwynne, and Valerie Perrine, doing their best to elicit a chuckle. That’s the debatable part.
The non-debatable part is the film’s soundtrack. Water is driven by a breezy reggae-rock soundtrack featuring Eddy Grant, the legendary Guyanese-British musician famous for hits like “Electric Avenue.” His original songs, “Water,” “Walking on Sunshine,” and “Living on the Frontline,” contain the authentic soca and calypso contributions from Barbadian calypso king Mighty Gabby, who provided the bop “Jack.”
And then, there’s “Freedom,” a song written by Eric Clapton and screenwriter Ian La Frenais, which powers the climax of the movie. As Cascaran rebels hijack a global broadcasting feed to stage a mock benefit concert, the fictional Singing Rebels Band, composed of very real rock stars like Harrison, Clapton, Ringo Starr, and Jon Lord, takes the stage. The sequence even spoofs Harrison’s 1971 Concert for Bangladesh.
But just as they did with other satirical flops that became cult legends, critics tore into it. The U.K.’s Times called it “a comedy with the zing of its title,” The New York Times said it “never strikes it rich,” and Variety relegated it to a “frenetic mishmash.”
Audiences, on the other hand, left considerably warmer reviews, calling Water “underrated,” “a feel-good movie,” “hilarious,” and “brilliant.” One reviewer even went so far as to call Water the best comedy of all time.
Looking back, there is clear evidence of later appreciation from critical publications. The Los Angeles Times called Water “refreshingly funny,” praising its witty lines when it reached U.S. theaters in 1986, and Filmink explicitly said, despite its reputation as a failure, “We actually really like Water,” calling it funny and charming. Further, Criterion now describes it as a “nutty satire” centered on a “typically sharp comic performance” from Caine.
Maybe it’s time to give that 0% a second look.
Iconic '90s Rapper Snow, 56, Nails Performance of 'Informer': 'You Just Transported Me to 7th Grade'
Snow is 56. He was at a Toronto charity event over the weekend. He performed “Informer.” And then the internet did what it always does when it suddenly remembers something from middle school. It completely lost its mind: “You just transported me to 7th grade.” “I bought his cassette tape at the mall as a teenager.” “Why are we so old now.” Same.
The song was No. 1 for seven weeks straight in 1993. Nobody could understand the lyrics then. Nobody fully can now. Snow is genuinely the only person on earth who knows what he’s saying. He just proved it in Toronto and the whole thing ended up on TikTok.
Snow’s still got it! The Canadian rapper was spotted at a Toronto charity event over the weekend singing his 1992 hit song “Informer.” 🔥
♬ original sound – Now Toronto – Now TorontoHere’s where to start with Snow though … Rick James was his babysitter when he was a kid. Rick James was dating a friend’s mother at the time. Just sit with that for a second. The rapper known as Snow’s real name is Darrin O’Brien, and he grew up in a housing project in Toronto’s North York district — Irish-Canadian kid surrounded by Jamaican neighbors who loved dancehall and changed everything for him. They called him Snow.
He fell hard for reggae. He eventually made a demo in Queens with rapper and producer MC Shan, got a record deal and then went to prison for assault. “Informer” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 while he was still in his cell. They released him to a limousine. Then told him he couldn’t tour America because of his criminal record. His song was No. 1 in the country. He couldn’t get into the country. He watched the whole thing from Toronto. And 12 Inches of Snow sold over eight million copies worldwide. That’s not a one-hit wonder. That’s one of the best-selling debut albums of 1993.
Related: 1993 One-Hit Wonder Songwriter Had Just Three Words for One of Rock’s Biggest Frontmen
The TikTok from Now Toronto shows Snow at his own give-back party — something he organized himself for his community. He gets up to thank the crowd first. “We all put this together and everybody came together,” he says. “Some people try to stop us but them can’t stop us.” Then, he launches into “Informer,” and the crowd does what every crowd does with “Informer”: goes somewhere between completely wild and completely confused.
“And the crowd went mild” writes one commenter which is the funniest thing anyone has written on the internet this week.
“The DJ sitting on the scooter got me rolling” writes another. “You do NOT grab the mic from the original OG.” Someone mentions Jim Carrey‘s Snow impression on In Living Color and honestly that’s a good reminder. When Jim Carrey’s parodying your song on the most-watched sketch comedy show on television, you’ve genuinely made it. Snow had made it.
@officiallyfunny4ever#jimcarrey #snow #imposter #inlivingcolor #inlivingcolorjimcarrey #informer #musicparody
♬ original sound – Officiallyfunny4everBut the comments that hit hardest aren’t the funny ones. They’re the ones where someone just looked up from their phone and quietly realized 30 years went by:
- “I was OBSESSED with him when I was like ten. I tried looking him up in the phone book.”
- “I’m still obsessed with Snow. I bought his cassette tape at the mall as a teenager.”
- “42 year old millennial here — Informer is still in HEAVY rotation in my playlist.”
- “I played the heck out of that cassette till it busted just on that one hit.”
- And then there’s just: “Why are we so old now.”
Yeah. Same.
He Still Knows Every WordHere’s what made “Informer” genuinely unlike anything else on the radio in 1993. Nobody knew what he was saying. He rapped in Jamaican patois so fast that the lyrics were basically impenetrable to anyone who hadn’t grown up listening to dancehall.
“He’s the only one that knows the lyrics” writes one fan. “I remember thinking I was so cool because I knew all the words. Somehow I still do. I’m 45 and can’t remember 5 minutes ago.” Everyone pretended they knew the words. Snow actually knew them. The song ended up in The Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest-selling reggae single in U.S. history.
In 2007, VH1 put it at No. 84 on their 100 Greatest Songs of the ’90s. In 2010, Pitchfork put it on their list of the seven worst No. 1 singles of the decade. Both of those things are true simultaneously. That’s the whole “Informer” experience right there. And Snow isn’t done. In 2019, he teamed up with Daddy Yankee on “Con Calma” — a full reworking of the “Informer” melody — which hit No. 1 on the Hot Latin Songs chart and made it back onto the Billboard Hot 100. His first chart entry in 26 years. Still Snow.
Nobody knew he was Canadian. Nobody knew he was white. Nobody could understand a single word he was saying. They bought the cassette anyway. They played it till it broke. He’s 56 now and he still knows every word. He just proved it in Toronto. Some things don’t change.
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Lenox’s Butterfly Meadow Reversible Quilt Set Is an Easy Bedroom Upgrade Brimming With Cottagecore Charm at 58% Off
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A bedding refresh is one of the easiest ways to switch up the aesthetic of your bedroom. With your bed being one of the largest focal points, it sets the tone for everything else. By simply replacing your pillowcases or blanket, you can completely change the vibes. However, a matching set makes your room look intentional and effortlessly put-together, and takes the guesswork out of styling separate pieces.
If you love anything and everything cottagecore, this Lenox Butterfly Meadow Reversible Quilt Set at JCPenney is definitely worth checking out. Right now, you can score it on sale for a whopping 58% off for a limited time, using the code LV2TEACH at checkout. This quilt set is available in three sizes, including twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king/California king. It normally retails between $110 and $150 depending on size, but it’s now marked down to $46, $55, and $63, respectively. For the same price, you can also get this quilt set in a blue butterfly version.
Lenox Butterfly Meadow Reversible Quilt Set, From $46 (was $110) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyThis quilt set includes matching pillow shams for cohesiveness. The twin/twin XL set comes with one, while the full/queen and king/California king sets come with two. For size reference, the twin/twin XL quilt measures 60 inches by 80 inches, the full/queen quilt comes in at 88 inches wide and long, and the king/California king quilt measures 88 inches by 104 inches.
Oozing with cottagecore charm, this quilt set is adorned with a gorgeous nature-inspired pattern. It features delicate butterflies and bees fluttering around dainty flowers, capturing the essence of a slow-paced, rural lifestyle. Creating a buzzy scene, this pattern is whimsical and lively, which should instantly elevate your bedroom’s aesthetic. The butterflies and flowers boast vibrant hues, adding a pop of color to bring your room to life.
This quilt set has a reversible design, offering the opportunity to change things up. If you’re ever feeling something a bit more subtle and understated, simply flip the quilt and pillow shams over. The reverse side features a solid pastel pink hue with soft blue accents.
Lenox Butterfly Blue Reversible Quilt Set, From $46 (was $110) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyJust as cozy as it is stunning, this quilt set is made of 100% polyester that’s soft to the touch. It’s Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning that it’s been tested and is free of over 1,000 toxic substances. The fabric is safe and skin-friendly, giving you peace of mind so you can sleep soundly.
Breathable yet warm, the quilt is lightly filled with polyester. It’ll drape over you like a plush cloud, providing a comforting layer without causing you to overheat, making it ideal for all-season use. The polyester filling is designed to mimic the feeling of down feathers. It’s a great affordable alternative, as it has the same fluffy, plush feel as down options. Polyester is also hypoallergenic, so it’s actually the preferable choice over down feathers if you have sensitive skin or deal with allergies.
Whenever you need to give this set a refresh, toss everything into the washing machine and tumble dry on low afterward. The fabric is wrinkle-resistant, so it should be ready to go right after you take it out of the dryer.
Shop More Deals- Lanwood Home 7-Piece Reversible Floral Comforter Set, From $63 (was $150) at JCPenney
- Linery Nautical Pattern Reversible Quilt Set, From $29 (was $70) at JCPenney
- Home Expressions Avery Floral Quilt Set, From $49 (was $120) at JCPenney
If you want to give your bed a chic and cozy refresh, don’t hesitate to snag the Lenox Butterfly Meadow Reversible Quilt Set at JCPenney while it’s still on sale for as low as $46! Don’t forget to use the code LV2TEACH at checkout to get it at this amazing price.
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2007 Career-Defining Hit, Inspired by a Reba McEntire Song, Is Still a Powerful Masterpiece 19 Years Later
19 years ago, on Sept. 10, 2007, Sugarland, made up of Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, released their career-defining country hit, “Stay.”
Written solely by Nettles, the track became the Grammy-winning country duo’s signature hit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it remained for four weeks. Though it never reached the top spot, “Stay” earned Sugarland two Grammy Awards for Best Country Song (awarded to Nettles as a songwriter) and Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal.
A gentle acoustic ballad, “Stay” tackles the serious subject of infidelity, with Nettles portraying a frustrated mistress who begs her married lover to make a choice. She pleads with him to leave his wife and choose her, but eventually realizes that waiting around for him isn’t worth it. In the end, Nettles walks away from the man she once longed for.
According to Country Thang Daily, Nettles was inspired to write the song after hearing Reba McEntire’s 1986 hit, “Whoever’s in New England,” which flips the script with a wife wondering why her husband is always away on business and suspecting he’s up to no good. Nettles’ “Stay” gives listeners the perspective of the other woman.
“19 years ago, we released “Stay” as the final single from Enjoy the Ride. Little did we know this song would go on to change our careers and prove to be such a defining anthem for us,” Sugarland wrote on Instagram, celebrating the song’s release. “It’s a song that still feels so emotionally raw and vulnerable after all these years. Thank you for always loving our music. ❤️”
View this post on InstagramThough it’s been nearly two decades since the release of “Stay,” the song still captures the hearts of listeners far and wide. Fans reminded of the 19th anniversary in Sugarland’s Instagram post chimed into the comments section, sharing just how much the song has impacted them throughout their lives.
“This song has been an anthem to so many seasons of my life,” one follower wrote. “Places I needed to escape and people I needed to leave behind. It still makes me emotional every time I hear it.”
RELATED: 1984 Country Classic, Recorded by Garth Brooks, Reimagined by Lainey Wilson at College GameDay
“I absolutely love this song. Its really powerful lyrics and beautiful sound touch my heart,” a second person added, while a third fan wrote. “This song shuts down everything every time I hear it. 😢”
“Stay” appears on Sugarland’s second studio album, 2006’s Enjoy the Ride, which spawned three additional Top 10 country hits: “Settlin,’” “Want To,” and “Everyday America.”
'Dancing with the Stars’ 2026 Premiere Spoilers: Every Song and Dance You'll See Week 1
Dancing with the Stars 2026 returns for Season 35 with a special two-night premiere. Once again, the hit ABC competition series will be co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, with Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough resuming their seats at the judges’ desk as 16 new celebrities get ready to take the ballroom floor for their first live performances.
For the two-night season premiere event, each couple will compete in only one of the two episodes. On Tuesday, the male celebrities will take the ballroom floor performing to a No. 1 song from the year they were born, with one male celebrity eliminated at the end of the night.
On Wednesday, the female celebrities will make their competition debut, performing to a No. 1 song from the year they were born, with one female celebrity eliminated at the end of the night.
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Voting for each of those episodes will be open only for the couples who are competing in their respective episode. Live viewer votes from each night will be combined with the judges’ scores each night to determine who is in jeopardy of elimination on their respective night of competition.
Dancing with the Stars 2026 Premiere Week Songs and Dances (Week 1)The couples (along with their dance styles and songs) are as follows:
- Tatyana Ali with partner Jan Ravnik will perform a Jive to “Knock on Wood” by Amii Stewart
- Tyler Cameron with partner Sharna Burgess will perform a Tango to “Are You Gonna Go My Way” by Lenny Kravitz
- Giada De Laurentiis with partner Alan Bersten will perform a Tango to “Venus” by Shocking Blue
- Jenna Dewan with partner Val Chmerkovskiy will perform a Tango to “Call Me” by Blondie
- Ezra Frech with partner Daniella Karagach will perform a Tango to “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson
- Amber Glenn with partner Pasha Pashkov will perform a Cha Cha to “Smooth” by Santana ft. Rob Thomas
- Taylor Hanson with partner Britt Stewart will perform a Quickstep to “Tell Her About It” by Billy Joel
- Maura Higgins with partner Mark Ballas will perform a Foxtrot to “Black Velvet” by Alannah Myles
- Related: R.J. Decker’s Season Premiere Features a Crossover with Dancing with The Stars Pros
- Conner Leavitt with partner Adele Zaikman will perform a Salsa to “Whoomp! There It Is” by Tag Team
- Ciara Miller with partner Brandon Armstrong will perform a Foxtrot to “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” by Whitney Houston
- Sarah Jane Nader with partner Hailey Bills will perform a Jive to “Sk8er Boi” by Avril Lavigne
- Jackson Olson with partner Emma Slater will perform a Cha Cha to “Wannabe” by Spice Girls
- Guillermo Rodriguez with partner Witney Carson will perform a Cha Cha to “Mr. Big Stuff” by Jean Knight
- Harry Shum Jr. with partner Jenna Johnson will perform a Cha Cha to “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire
- Julia Stiles with partner Ezra Sosa will perform a Quickstep to “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton
- Connor Wood with partner Rylee Arnold will perform a Cha Cha to “I Like It, I Love It” by Tim McGraw
Season 35 of DWTS premieres Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 8 p.m. ET/PT and continues Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. ET/PT and is simulcast LIVE across both ABC and Disney+. Streams next day on Hulu.
Stephen Colbert Set to Make Late-Night Return Months After 'Late Show' Finale
Former Late Show host Stephen Colbert is set to make his return to late-night just four months after his show was canceled.
Colbert will appear as a guest on pal Jimmy Kimmel’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Tuesday, September 15, according to LateNighter. His appearance will mark his first since saying goodbye in May.
The comedian signed off for the last time after CBS axed The Late Show after 33 years. Colbert sat at the host’s desk for 11 of those seasons.
Despite signing a five-year contract extension in 2023, CBS announced in July 2025 that they were pulling the plug on the series, claiming it was “purely a financial” decision.
“I do not dispute their rationale,” Colbert told The New York Times in May. “I do make jokes about it. But I also completely understand why people would say (A) that doesn’t make sense to me and (B) that seems fishy to me, because the network did it to themselves by bending the knee to the Trump administration over a $20 billion, settled for $16 million, completely frivolous lawsuit.”
He continued, “It’s possible that two things can be true. Broadcast can be in trouble. They cannot monetize because of things like YouTube, because of the competition of streaming. They’ve got the books, and I do not have any desire to debate them over what they say their business model is and how it does not work for them anymore. But less than two years before they called to say it’s over, they were very eager for me to be signed for a long time. So, something changed.”
Colbert’s appearance on Kimmel is set for one night after he and Kimmel go head-to-head for Outstanding Variety Series at the 78th Emmy Awards on Monday, September 14.
CBS Drops Big 'Beyond the Gates' Season 3 News as New Threat Looms
CBS has officially set a premiere date for Beyond the Gates’ third season, and it will be here before you know it!
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When Does Beyond the Gates Season 3 Premiere?The network confirmed today that the third season of its Daytime Emmy-nominated series will premiere on Tuesday, December 29, 2026!
What will happen in the lead-up to Beyond the Gates Season 3?The press release teased plenty of drama for fans to look forward to, as The Duprees, their friends and foes, will wade through a flood of fresh tests and triumphs.
As the story develops, fans can look forward to their favorites wrestling rivals, both established and new, as others “fight for their livelihoods,” and their lives.
Teasing what is to come, viewers can look forward to seeing Anita (Tamara Tunie) hit a bump in the road on the way to The Articulette’s revival.
Meanwhile, Anita’s husband Vernon Dupree (Clifton Davis) takes charge when he gets news that dredges up the past.
Dani (Karla Mosley) and Andre’s (Sean Freeman) marriage meets turbulence when mounting tensions with Bill (Timon Kyle Durrett) and Hayley (Marquita Goings) pull Dani deeper into her ex’s life.
Martin (Brandon Claybon) is set to defend his family when his husband Smitty (Mike Manning) is dealt a devastating public blow that puts Martin’s niece Naomi (Arielle Prepetit) and her husband Jacob (Jibre Hordges) on opposing sides.
Shanice (Ernestine Johnson) and Ted Richardson (Keith D. Robinson) are set to take their relationship to the next level, despite someone attempting to sabotage the connection.
Meanwhile, Nicole (Daphnee Duplaix) is ready for more with Kial (Greg Vaughan).
Madison (Kenjah) is a rock to Chelsea (RhonniRose Mantilla) when she and Kat (Colby Muhammad) can’t escape scandal.
Vanessa (Lauren Buglioli) and Joey’s (Jon Lindstrom) love life fuels the fire with her daughter Deanna (Angela Fairley).
As tensions simmer behind closed doors, a greater threat looms that could upend the entire community. Will Fairmount Crest ever be the same? Viewers will have to tune in and watch as the drama unfolds.
Will there be a crossover in Season 3 of Beyond the Gates?Viewers watched as members of The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless made appearances on the CBS daytime drama during Seasons 1 and 2 and are now anxiously awaiting whether a similar crossover will happen in Season 3. As of right now, no crossovers have been confirmed, but that doesn’t mean that a crossover won’t happen in the future. Production on Season 3 is expected to begin soon, so viewers can stay tuned as the story continues to develop.
Where to watch Beyond the Gates?Fans can check out brand new episodes of Beyond the Gates weekdays on CBS and streaming weeknights on Paramount+.
Viewers can catch up on all of the drama from Fairmount Crest from the very beginning on Paramount+, Tubi, or on Pluto TV’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.
Related: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Sets Premiere Date for Major Headwriter Shakeup
Martha Stewart’s ‘Classy’ Ottoman Bench Is an Elegant Upgrade From Bulky Storage Bins, Now 68% Off
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Not every storage solution needs to look like a storage solution. While I love having a place to tuck away blankets, toys, and other items that pile up around the house, I don’t necessarily want another bulky bin or basket sitting out in the open. A piece that can pull double duty as furniture? Now that’s much more my style.
That’s what makes Martha Stewart’s Lily Pond Leslie Oval Storage Bench at Wayfair such a good find. It has a curvy, oval shape and fully upholstered design that make it look more like an accent piece than a spot to stash clutter. Right now, it is $158, down from $500 — that’s $340 off. According to shoppers, the bench delivers plenty of style while being “surprisingly spacious.”
Martha Stewart Lily Pond Leslie Oval Storage Bench, $158 (was $500) at Wayfair Shop at WayfairThe bench measures 48 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 18 inches high, making it a useful size for an entryway, bedroom, or living room. It can also fit beneath a window or at the end of the bed, where the extra seating can come in handy without taking up too much room.
The 4.25-inch-thick seat is filled with plush foam, giving you a comfortable spot to sit while getting ready or putting on shoes. It supports up to 400 pounds, so it’s sturdy enough for everyday seating. Lift the lid, and there’s plenty of hidden storage for blankets, toys, games, pillows, and other things you’d rather keep out of sight.
For safety purposes, the bench features a soft-close lid that gently shuts instead of slamming, making it especially handy for households with kids. There are also ventilation holes inside to promote airflow and help make the storage compartment safer for everyday use.
Shoppers appreciated how “functional” and “classy” the bench was. One reviewer said, “It looks high-end, the fabric is soft and durable, and it offers plenty of hidden storage for blankets, toys, and games.” Another shopper said it was “beautiful” and “comfortable” to sit on.
There’s no assembly required, either. Simply place the bench where you want it and put it to use.
Shop More Deals- Martha Stewart Bedford Accent Ottoman, $102 (was $190) at Wayfair
- Rosalind Wheeler Algimanta Sunflower Non-Skid Kitchen Mat, $18 (was $34) at Wayfair
- Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug, $83 (was $198) at Wayfair
Related: Walmart’s ‘Spacious’ and ‘Sturdy’ Storage Bench Is Over $100 Off for Labor Day
If you’re looking for more ways to add storage without sacrificing style, shop the Martha Stewart Lily Pond Leslie Oval Storage Bench for just $158 at Wayfair while the sale lasts!
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Psychologists Warn Women Against Using This 2-Word Phrase That ‘Downplays’ Their Voice
As women, we’re socialized to be very compromising and amiable to others. We’re often shamed for taking up too much space with our opinions or what we have to say. This can manifest as phrases women say to keep the peace—even if it comes at a cost to our own well-being, mental state or self—or having “nice girl” behaviors that could actually be hurtful overall, in the long run. When you’re constantly worrying about others and being there for them, you never have time for yourself or to do what is true to you.
Starting at a young age, girls are conditioned to be “good” and not fight back against the greater consensus, even if that opinion is detrimental to them. From eldest daughters putting forth immense emotional labor to women getting imposter syndrome because they feel like they shouldn’t be at such high levels of authority, these lessons from childhood (and, again, from society) can really dim a woman’s light in adulthood.
But it’s not all dark; there are tips and tricks out there to help you get your power back—including knowing the one phrase psychologists want women to stop saying because it “downplays” their voice. Just like there are things that women shouldn’t apologize for, this phrase can shrink you and your opinions. Read on to find out what it is, and what you should start saying more of instead.
The One Phrase Women Should Stop Using Because It ‘Downplays’ Their Voice, Psychologist WarnsIn case you weren’t aware, words are powerful. What we say to ourselves as our inner critic or supporter, and what we say to others, can leave lasting impressions. That’s why it’s so important to be kind to ourselves, speak to our brains as if we were talking to our inner child and to remember to treat others with kindness and respect. And this is especially true if you’re a woman.
“Words matter, especially the ones we speak about ourselves,” noted Dr. Crystal Saidi, PsyD, a psychologist with Thriveworks, in a previous article about phrases that women should stop saying. “When women use dismissive, people-pleasing or shrinking phrases, it subtly reinforces the power dynamics and limits how confidently we show up.”
So what’s the one phrase you should stop using because of how it diminishes you and your credibility? “I’m just…”
“Whether it’s ‘I’m just a stay-at-home mom’ or ‘I’m just asking,’ the word ‘just’ shrinks whatever follows it,” Dr. Saidi also shared at the time. “It downplays your role, your voice and your contribution, even when it is valuable.”
If you say this two-word phrase, you’re letting others know, off the bat, not to take you seriously because you don’t take yourself very seriously. It comes off as unsure and has no authority.
Related: 10 Things Women Over 50 Should Never Apologize For
What Women Should Start Saying More OftenOf course, to start, it’s good to wipe out “just” from your vocabulary, at least when it comes to addressing yourself. Don’t preface a sentence, opinion or thought with “I’m just…” Confidently go straight into sharing your sentiment.
Outside of that, another phrase you should include in your lexicon more often is an unapologetic way to stand your ground: “I said what I said.”
“It’s bold, clean and unapologetic,” Dr. Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, a neuropsychologist and the Director of Comprehend the Mind, told Parade. “It shuts down the need to over-explain, walk back a truth or soften a boundary. It’s best used when someone tries to challenge, twist or diminish what you’ve already made clear.”
Related: 11 Boundaries Every Woman Should Set by 40, According to Therapists
Dr. Saidi also shared one more that’s assertive, respectful and a really good reminder to keep for yourself: “I can be kind and still say no.”
“This one is great because it affirms agency, encourages setting boundaries—which some women may struggle with—and promotes assertiveness,” she raved at the time. “It reminds women that they do not have to choose between being kind and respecting themselves.”
Sure, you can say this to someone else. But again, it’s good to keep repeating and reminding yourself.
Up Next:
Related: Color Psychologist Says These 5 Colors Are Worn Most by ‘Mentally Strong’ Women
Sources:- Dr. Crystal Saidi, PsyD, is a psychologist with Thriveworks.
- Dr. Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, is a neuropsychologist and the Director of Comprehend the Mind.
This Iconic TV Star Was Nominated 10 Times but Never Won an Acting Emmy
Over the course of his career, Hugh Laurie, 67, has been nominated 10 times for an Emmy Award. Sadly, the British actor’s name has yet to be announced as a winner.
The iconic TV actor got his first nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2005 for his role as Dr. Gregory House on the FOX medical drama, House. He went on to be nominated five more times for his portrayal of the cranky but genius doctor over the course of the show’s eight seasons.
It’s all so strange. The whole notion of competitive acting is so weird,” Laurie told Entertainment Tonight of his Emmy nominations and lack of wins. “It would only have meaning as a competition — and that’s what it is — if 10 actors all played Jack Bauer.
The fact that Hugh Laurie NEVER got an Emmy for this show is a travesty beyond belief. Absolutely criminal.
— @DebsStillCute (@debsstillcute) January 11, 2025He continued, “But until that happens, until they enter acting in the Olympic Games, I think the whole thing is kind of crazy.”
Luckily, he was rewarded in other ways for his role as Dr. House. He won two Golden Globe Awards and two Screen Actors Guild Awards for his work on the popular show.
He went on to be nominated again at the Emmy Awards, this time for Outstanding Supporting Actor and Outstanding Drama Series (as a producer) for his work on AMC’s The Night Manager. He was also nominated twice for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role as politician Tom James in Veep on HBO.
So, why didn’t Laurie win, especially for his role as Dr. House? Well, let’s just say the competition was tough. He was up against major actors and drama series, such as Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad, The Sopranos‘ James Gandolfini, and Jon Hamm in Mad Men.
Surprisingly, Laurie is not the actor with the most Emmy nominations and losses. That title goes to Angela Lansbury, with 17 nominations and no wins. Twelve of those nominations were for Murder, She Wrote.
Hit Song by Darius Rucker Named Among the 'Greatest Country Songs of All Time'
14 years after the debut of Hootie & the Blowfish‘s first album, Cracked Rear View, Darius Rucker released his first solo country record, 2008’s Learn to Live. The 2008 album ended up doing quite well, especially the record’s third track, “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” which took home the No. 1 Billboard’s Hot Country Songs spot in October 2008.
The tune, which depicts a narrator revisiting a past relationship, was featured on Rolling Stone magazine’s ranking of “The 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.” Rolling Stone placed “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” penned by Rucker and Clay Mills, at the list’s 174th spot.
Darius Rucker Discussed Making ‘Learn to Live’ in a 2009 InterviewIn a 2009 interview with Digital Rodeo, Rucker discussed the debut of Learn to Live. He explained that while the album was in the country genre, he “didn’t feel like [he] was singing different or writing different” from when he was working on pop rock records for Hootie & the Blowfish.
“I just felt like I was making the record I wanted to make,” said Rucker during the interview.
In addition, he said he was “so, so worried about being accepted” among country fans because he was “coming from the pop world,” and was relieved when Learn to Live was celebrated.
“For radio people to have just said, ‘Okay, hey, we don’t care what everybody else does, what do you got?’ And then they heard it, and they liked it. To be accepted like that was when I really saw how real country music is, how there’s no BS here. It’s just real, and if you got the song, it doesn’t matter what you look like or where you’re from,” said Rucker, now 60.
While speaking to Digital Rodeo, Rucker also noted that Mills and producer Frank Rogers helped him write Learn to Live. He explained that making his 2008 country album “was so different” because he had been the sole songwriter for Hootie & the Blowfish.
“So when I started doing this, I really realized how songwriting in Nashville is a science. And it’s so beautiful,” said the musician.
1965 Rock Song, Recorded in New York, Is Still a Powerful Hit 61 Years Later
Sixty-one years ago, garage-rock group The McCoys released “Hang on Sloopy,” a defining hit for them that remains a classic in its genre.
Released in July 1965 as the lead single and title track of their debut studio album, “Hang on Sloopy” became a massive success. Upon its arrival, the song climbed up the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 1 on October 2. In total, the song spent 14 consecutive weeks on the tally.
Although the song remains uncertified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), it has sold over 1 million copies in the U.S. alone. The track served as the catalyst for the group’s career, launching them into mainstream international fame overnight.
Drummer Randy Z, his brother, frontman Rick Derringer, bass player Randy Jo Hobbs and keyboard player Ronnie Brandon of American rock group The McCoys with a copy of ‘Hit Parader’ magazine, circa 1965.Don Paulsen/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
The Creation of “Hang on Sloopy”“Hang on Sloopy” was penned by songwriters Wes Farrell and Bert Berns in 1964. The track was originally recorded by R&B group The Vibrations under the name “My Girl Sloopy.”
In 1965, The McCoys re-titled and re-recorded the track in New York City with producers Bob Feldman, Gerry Goldstein and Richard Gottehrer. Lead singer Rick Derringer was only 16 years old at the time of the recording sessions, bringing a youthful charm to the track that captivated listeners.
“Hang on Sloopy” tells the story of a young girl who comes from a disadvantaged background on the wrong side of town. The track serves as a heartfelt plea, encouraging her to stay strong despite the difficult circumstances she faces. Its uplifting sentiment resonated deeply with a wide audience, establishing an appeal that has endured for decades.
Over six decades after its release, “Hang on Sloopy” remains a timeless garage-rock anthem. The track has persevered into the digital era, racking up nearly 57 million streams across its various versions on Spotify.
Related: 1976 Breakup Song, Written in a Car in Maryland, Has 505 Million Spotify Streams
