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Every year, many of us search for that special something that feels both thoughtful and easy to give. The best presents (whether for yourself or a beloved friend) combine everyday usefulness with a touch of personality. They bring a smile, fit seamlessly into daily life, and make the recipient feel truly seen. 

If someone on your gifting list happens to love country music stars, shoppers said the Dolly Parton Pink Velvet Rockstar Stainless Steel Insulated Tumbler is a phenomenal choice. Few items manage to capture both the charm of an icon and the practical needs of everyday life, but this find does just that. It has earned glowing reviews from Dolly Parton fans and gift-givers alike. 

Dolly Parton Pink Velvet Rockstar Stainless Steel Insulated Tumbler, $29 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This mug is so much more than a drinking vessel. It’s a celebration of a cultural icon whose influence spans generations. The mug has a black exterior with a picture of Dolly posing on a pink velvet cushion. The word “Rockstar” is printed above the photo, while Dolly’s signature is inscribed underneath. 

The 20-ounce tumbler reflects the country star’s bold yet timeless style. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while its insulation keeps beverages hot or cold for extended periods, making it ideal for home use or travel.

This tumbler is perfect for everything from piping hot morning coffee and mulled cider to icy cold lemonade, smoothies, or a refreshing glass of sweet tea. With its secure leakproof lid and generous capacity, it keeps your favorite drink just the way you like it, whether you’re relaxing on the porch or heading out for the day. Meanwhile, the dishwasher-safe, BPA-free material provides peace of mind for health-conscious consumers. Because it’s reusable, it’s also environmentally conscious. 

Measuring just under seven inches tall and a little over three inches wide, the mug fits comfortably in most cup holders, an important detail if you’re planning to take this one on-the-go.

This mug is a great way for any Dolly Parton superfan to treat themselves to a practical essential that’s packed with personality. One reviewer also noted that it makes a great present for someone special: “I bought this as a gift for a friend. She loves it.” Unlike when you gift clothing or jewelry, you don’t need to know the recipient’s sizes before you purchase this incredibly giftable Dolly Parton mug.

Related: Dolly Parton’s ‘Lovely’ Butterfly Salt and Pepper Shakers Bring Instant Joy to Humdrum Cooking Tasks

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• Dolly Parton 11 x 14-Inch Reversible Rose Print Plastic Cutting Board, $13 at Amazon
• Dolly Parton Ceramic Utensil Holder, $20 (was $22) 
• Dolly Parton Pink Guitar Long-Handle Bottle Brush, $8 at Amazon

If you’re seeking a blend of star power and everyday utility, the Dolly Parton Pink Velvet Rockstar Insulated Mug delivers. Whether for personal use or as a special gift, grab one today and get a little taste of Dolly’s magic with every sip. 

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Tom Morello, the iconic guitarist behind the supergroup Audioslave and legendary rock band Rage Against the Machine, is stepping into a new chapter of his career.

From the ’90s through the 2000s, the Harlem native made a name for himself as a co-founder of both groups, but this time, he is offering a closer look at his music through his first-ever full-length solo rock album

During his guest appearance on Loudwire Nights with Chuck Armstrong, the 62-year-old musician spoke about having the “predominantly collaborative affairs” he had with Audioslave, one of the greatest supergroups, as well as Rage Against the Machine and Bruce Springsteen.

With his decades of experience creating records and a long list of albums under his name, he shared the excitement and sense of possibility he felt about creating his own solo rock album.

Tom Morello at the Pinkpop Festival 2026

Didier Messens/Redferns

“This is the first fastball down the middle, huge riff rock Tom Morello solo album [and] the 22nd record of my career,” Morello shared, adding “But it really feels very much to me like the feeling I had with the first Rage record, like the feeling I had with the first Audiosoave record, where you’re kind of on the dawn of some big ass rock that is rising to meet the day — and something that’s so artistically satisfying.”

The ’90s rock star is set to release Everyone Gets Everything They Want on Sept. 25.

Before the exciting update about his career plans, Morello gave fans a glimpse of his new album in July after releasing his official lead single, “Date Night,” a heavy rock song that showcases his signature explosive riffs and powerful rhythms.

According to him, the inspiration behind the track was a true story of three Dutch teenagers who resisted the Nazis during World War II.

“They were part of the partisan resistance against the Nazi occupation,” he shared. “They bombed bridges and trains. They helped Jewish children escape persecution and they were a thorn in the Nazi side. Two of them survived the ward, lived to a ripe old age. The youngest one, Hannie Schaft, was captured, tortured and murdered by the Nazis, but never snitched on her girls. And I wanted to write a song for them.”

Morello proudly shared that he teamed up with his son, Roman, who wrote the riff for the song.

“He’s got enough of that Morellian DNA that sometimes I go, ‘I wish I wrote that one,'” the father of two said.

In addition to “Date Night,” Morello also released the song “Adjourn It,” the third track from his 12-song album, in May, offering an early glimpse into his solo music career.

It was a collaboration between System of a Down’s Serj Tankian and Morello’s 15-year-old son.

Related: Beloved Rock Band, Formed in New York, Announces 2026 Tour With Special Guests

Michael Jackson’s daughter is entering a new chapter of her music career.

Paris Jackson has released her sophomore album, Happiest Day of My Life, nearly six years after her 2020 debut wilted.

The 11-track album arrived Friday, Aug. 21, via Republic Records, marking 28-year-old Jackson’s first full-length release since her debut. Along with the album, she released the official music video for the title track, “happiest day of my life.”

The singer has been teasing the new era with singles including “zombies in love,” “teenage drama” and “stitched (on & on).”

Paris Jackson Takes Her Music in a New Direction

Happiest Day of My Life finds Jackson leaning further into alternative and rock influences.

According to the album announcement, the singer drew inspiration from artists including The Smashing Pumpkins, Pixies, Marcy Playground and Bright Eyes while working with songwriters and producers including Linda Perry, Butch Walker and Jason Lader.

The result is a heavier sound than the one featured on wilted, with Jackson exploring themes of healing, heartbreak, self-discovery and finding light after difficult experiences.

The album includes 11 songs:

1. “teenage drama”
2. “maker”
3. “zombies in love”
4. “bang bang”
5. “happiest day of my life”
6. “evermore”
7. “sirens”
8. “ghost”
9. “gaslight”
10. “stitched (on & on)”
11. “american dream”

Jackson has described the album as being born from a “collision of sound, experience, and emotion,” with the new material showcasing a more confident and expansive side of her artistry.

Paris Jackson Is Taking the New Album on the Road

The release comes as Jackson is in the middle of her first-ever Zombies Tour across North America.

She has also been supporting The Pretty Reckless on select dates and will head to Europe and the U.K. this fall for her first-ever headline shows there.

Before the album’s release, Jackson made her debut on Good Morning America’s Summer Concert Series, where she performed “zombies in love” and “happiest day of my life.”

Her upcoming dates include shows in Atlanta, Cleveland, Toronto, Boston and New York before she heads overseas.

RELATED: Country Star Kacey Musgraces, Who Started Yodeling at 8, Turns 38

SPOILER ALERT! This article contains events from the Big Brother 28 live feeds that have yet to be aired on the television episodes. Please don’t read ahead if you prefer not to know competition winners and nominees ahead of time.

After escaping the gaze of the house for over a month, the Big Brother 28 icons are finally out in the open. Yash Patel’s HoH reign forced both of the season’s powers out of hiding, and while the bribe remains at large, Rick Devens made his count. His use of the Diamond Power of Veto pulled the mat out from Kamu Kirk, as the biggest threat in the house was suddenly on the block and out the door. And, with a new majority of seven formed, and jury on the horizon, it remains to be seen if they’ll stick together.


Here’s everything you need to know about this week on Big Brother 28, including Head of Household and veto winners, nominees, and who is likely to go.

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Who is Head of Household on Big Brother 28 this week? Dee Valladares Dee Valladares on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling / CBS

Last week, Dee found herself in danger for the first time all season, getting put up on the block and even becoming the target at one point. But she followed up getting the Diamond Power of Veto used on her with some safety of her own, winning her second HoH of the season.

Who was nominated this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Friday to see who has been nominated for eviction this week.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’ Cast Includes Famous Relatives, Reality Stars and More Unexpected Connections

Who won the Veto this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Saturday to find out who won the Power of Veto this week.

Was the Veto used this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Monday to find out whether the Veto was used this week.

Who will be evicted this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Tuesday or Wednesday to find out who will be voted out this week.

Who won the “BB Time Capsule” vote this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back Friday to see who entered the final week of the “BB Time Capsule,” and whether they received a previous power or punishment.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’s Kamu Kirk Reveals the Real Reason He Started the Tea Party Conflict with Jason: ‘I Have Nothing But Respect and Love’ (Exclusive)

As news of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s return to the United Kingdom continues to send shockwaves through royal circles, a friend of the Duke of Sussex is sharing the emotional reason behind the move.

Six years after stepping back as senior royals and relocating to the United States, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are officially heading back to the U.K. According to reporting by The Telegraph, the couple is set to return to Britain later this month, with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet already enrolled in a British school as the family prepares to settle into a private, non-royal home.

Although initial speculation about the sudden shift centered on a Meghan career pivot, one of Harry’s friends claims the true motivation is far more personal. The Duke of Sussex reportedly wants his children to have roots in his homeland as he continues to mend fences with the royal family.

Archie Manners told GB News, “I am in no doubt that the primary motivator of this move is the King’s health.” He added that Harry has had a “human reaction” to his estrangement from his father, King Charles, who revealed a cancer diagnosis in 2024.

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Loic Venance/AFP via Getty Images

LOIC VENANCE / AFP via Getty Images

He told the news outlet there could “probably” be “some regret on both sides of that.” Manners concluded that Harry may have come to the “realization that one day he’ll get a call saying daddy is no longer with us and he doesn’t want to have had bad blood beforehand.”

In the years since moving to the United States with Meghan and making a new life in Montecito, California, Harry has returned to Britain less than a dozen times. He has taken solo trips for court battles, Invictus Games events, and Charles’ coronation, along with brief family visits.

With Meghan, Harry returned to his homeland for Queen Elizabeth‘s funeral. The couple returned in July 2026, when they visited Highgrove House with their children to meet with King Charles III and Camilla Parker Bowles.

RELATED: King Charles Weighs in on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s U.K. Return: Report

However, royal watchers do not know the extent of the personal communication between Harry and Charles in these past six years. Additionally, there have been no formal statements from his older brother, Prince William, about the status of his relationship with his younger brother.

In the past, the Duke of Sussex shared that he wants to reconcile with his family. The BBC reported in 2025 that Harry is hopeful they can move forward.

“There have been so many disagreements between myself and some of my family,” Harry stated. “I would love reconciliation with my family. There’s no point continuing to fight anymore, life is precious.”

Related: Prince William Will Be Unable to ‘Duck a Reconciliation’ With Prince Harry After His U.K. Return: Royal Expert

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Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to squeeze in a few more evenings outside. The Sonoma Goods For Life Lemon Solar Lantern is currently just $14 at Kohl’s, down from $25, and it’s a sunny little way to keep patios, porches, and gardens feeling summery for a bit longer. The lantern comes in a bright cyber yellow color and is shaped like a lemon, complete with green leaves and a white flower at the base. 

The lantern is made from ceramic with a plastic solar panel and can be used indoors or outside. It measures up to 5.5 inches high, 7.1 inches wide, and 5.3 inches deep, and weighs just over a pound. It uses one included rechargeable battery and comes with a light bulb, so you don’t need to buy anything extra. There’s also zero assembly required.

Sonoma Goods For Life Lemon Solar Lantern, $14 (was $25) at Kohl’s

Courtesy of Kohl's

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For anyone who isn’t quite ready to swap every sunny piece of decor for pumpkins, this lantern is a cute excuse to hold onto summer a little longer. The lemon shape adds plenty of personality to a patio, porch, or outdoor dining setup, and the flower-shaped cutouts glow when the light comes on. And since it runs on solar power, you also don’t have to worry about finding an outlet or running a cord across the yard.

One reviewer, who bought it for their lake house, called it a “great gift” and said it was “so cute and bright” in their space, while another wrote, “This lemon solar lantern is a perfect addition to my patio decor! Love it!” Both reviewers also rated it five out of five for quality, value, and style.

Related: Kohl’s Cheerful $20 Woven Sunflower Storage Basket Is the Cutest Way to Ease Into Fall Decor

As an added bonus, Kohl’s is offering a buy one, get one 50% off deal on the lantern right now, which makes it an especially tempting time to grab a pair for opposite ends of a patio or to keep one and give the second as a gift. And at $14 each before the additional BOGO offer, they’re already nearly half off their original price.

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• Sonoma Goods For Life Aqua Shell Solar Lantern, $14 (was $25) at Kohl’s
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The Sonoma Goods For Life Lemon Solar Lantern is down to just $14 at Kohl’s from $25, making now a pretty sweet time to pick one up. And with Kohl’s showing only a handful left, this sunny little summer find may not stick around much longer. Be sure to grab one while you can and squeeze a little more fun out of the season.

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There are times that I love looking out at the sea and the “I’ll meet you in the casino” part of travel, and then there is the travel that I do for my own well-being. It’s self-care. It may be times spent alone with my husband, connecting with a best friend, or just time alone with my thoughts. Those are the travel moments that I find meaningful, so when I’m putting the Martini Bars, the White Parties and the huge dining rooms on the back burner and putting myself first, it’s important to me to find that placce that will give me what I need. A sense of renewal, a sense of beauty, and a sense that I belong.

Related: I’m 45 and Officially Done with ‘Average’ Travel—My Soul Needed This One Luxury Weekend More Than Three Cheap Ones

Maison Felix is One of Those Places A look inside a stylish guest room at Maison Felix in North Beach, featuring cozy lounge seating and vibrant contemporary artwork.

Zippy Sandler

There is a moment when you walk into Maison Felix that feels a little like opening a secret door. Outside of the area Miami Beach as we know it today. Bigger, louder, faster and flashier. It is a place where there always seems to be somewhere to go, something to see, a reservation to make or a scene you are supposed to join.

But tucked away on a quiet street in North Beach at 7418 Harding Avenue in Miami Beach, Maison Felix feels like an escape from what so much of Miami Beach has become. It is intimate. It is beautiful. And perhaps most importantly, it is quiet enough to hear yourself think again.

Related: I Slept in a Former Textile Mill and It’s One of New England’s Best Kept Secrets

The Quieter Side of Miami Beach

Zippy Sandler

South Beach may receive most of the attention, but North Beach, or NoBe, offers a very different Miami experience. This is a neighborhood where you can walk to a local coffee shop, find a casual place for dinner and reach the beach without navigating the crowds that gather farther south. The pace feels and the surroundings are a little more residential.

Yes, you are still in Miami Beach, but now you get to experience it on your own terms. That alone makes North Beach worth discovering.

The neighborhood also holds personal memories for me. My Aunt Dora lived in North Beach, and I remember visiting her when I was a child. As I walked by the condos and apartments I could smell the cinnamon of her Pinwheel Cookies in my memory. I still recognized something familiar in the low-rise buildings and residential streets. There is a sense that people actually live here, rather than simply passing through on their way to the next party.

Related: The South Florida ‘Slow-Burn’ Shore That’s Finally Having Its Big Moment

Maison Felix Fits Beautifully Into That Atmosphere.

Zippy Sandler

The restored building dates to 1948 and has only 29 rooms and suites, so it does not feel like a traditional resort. There is no enormous lobby, cavernous restaurant or crowd of guests competing for space around the pool. Instead, it feels as though you have stumbled upon an impossibly stylish little European residence where someone has handed you a key and told you to stay awhile. That is a large part of its charm.

A Hotel With an Identity of Its Own

The rooms at Maison Felix have a boho-vintage sensibility that manages to feel both collected and completely modern. Mediterranean and coastal influences are mixed with custom furnishings, vintage mirrors, warm colors and natural textures. Nothing feels as though it came from a generic hotel catalog.

There is personality everywhere, especially in the spectacular artwork by Miami artist Mark Cherry that hangs throughout the property. This is not the kind of hotel art you barely notice while walking down a corridor. The paintings demand attention.

You stop. You look. You notice.

The artwork is available for purchase, although it may be difficult to decide which piece you want to take home. Each contributes to the hotel’s sense of place and makes the rooms and shared spaces feel more like a private collection.

Miami has no shortage of beautiful hotels, but many of them seem determined to impress you immediately. They announce themselves through enormous floral arrangements, dramatic lobbies, velvet ropes and restaurants where securing a table can feel like an accomplishment.

Maison Felix does not need to prove itself that way.

It is artistic without being pretentious and luxurious without shouting about it. Its beauty reveals itself gradually, in the textures, colors, paintings and small details you begin noticing once you slow down.

And slowing down is precisely what this hotel encourages you to do.

The Pool is the Heart of Maison Felix

Zippy Sandler

Then there is the pool.

The ground floor rooms open to the pool through a sliding glass door and small glass-walled space, which meant that each morning I could push back the curtains to look outside and see this beautiful oasis waiting for me in the courtyard along with bistro tables and chairs by each entrance to the pool that look like they came straight from a sidewalk in Cassis or Marseille to sit and have my coffee or read a book.

The courtyard pool is surrounded by lush greenery, with loungers tucked beneath palms and umbrellas. The rooms all wrap around the courtyard, creating a sense that the pool belongs to a private home rather than a hotel. Maison Felix feels protected from the world beyond its walls.

Zippy Sandler

There are no waterslides, DJs or rows of guests saving chairs at sunrise. Instead, this is a pool made for reading, talking and doing absolutely nothing without feeling guilty about it. You can find a lounger beneath the palms, open the book that has been sitting half-read on your nightstand for months and finally make it past the third chapter. You can take a quiet swim, close your eyes in the sunshine or catch up with someone you love without competing with music and surrounding conversations.

For couples, it’s a place to reconnect after realizing that everyday routines have slowly replaced meaningful conversation. For good friends, it is a place to claim a pair of loungers and talk until you suddenly discover that three hours have passed. For solo travelers, it provides something even more valuable. Space to be alone without feeling lonely.

But I think Maison Felix may be most special as that place to come back to yourself.

Zippy Sandler

Slow Mornings Are Built Into the Stay

There is a small gym if you feel the need to work out, although I personally think walking to the beach and back should count for something.

There is also a lovely breakfast room where mornings begin slowly, exactly as vacation mornings should. A barista prepares coffee drinks while the continental breakfast includes choices such as Suja and Pressed juices, giant croissants, cookies and quiche from a local bakery.

It’s an easy, unhurried way to begin the day.

Have another coffee. Take your croissant to the bistro table outside your room. Decide what you want to do, or decide that you do not want to decide anything yet.

The entire experience feels extremely European. Not European in the themed-hotel sense, but in the way the days invite you to linger. Meals do not need to be rushed. Coffee is allowed to become an activity. Sitting beside a pool with nowhere else to be is considered a perfectly worthwhile way to spend an afternoon. That may be the real luxury here.

We have become accustomed to treating vacations like assignments. We make lists, reserve time slots and fill every hour because we are afraid of missing something. Then we return home exhausted and wonder why our vacation did not feel more restful. Maison Felix presents another possibility.

You can sleep late. Drink your coffee slowly. Sit beside the pool without feeling as though you should be doing something more productive. Walk to the beach. Read. Think. Talk. Take a nap. Do absolutely nothing.

There is something wonderfully indulgent about giving yourself permission to stop performing your life for a little while and simply live it.

Related: 10 Best Free Caribbean Beaches Worth Skipping Cruise Excursions For

Zippy Sandler

And Then There’s the Beach

Staying at here does not mean isolating yourself from Miami Beach. Quite the opposite. One of the hotel’s greatest charms is that everything is close when you want it, but you can retreat when you have had enough.

The ocean is about a seven-minute walk away. Guests can access loungers and an umbrella, making it easy to spend the morning on the sand (or if you’re like me, sitting at the water’s edge letting the small waves lap over your legs) before returning to the calm of the hotel.

Because it is a public beach, you will want to bring a towel and anything you plan to drink or snack on. But, you’ll pass lovely bakeries, coffee shops and head to Walgreens on the way for your sun block. There is no elaborate resort operation on the sand, and that is part of the appeal. You can enjoy the water, feel the sand beneath your feet and experience a less commercial side of Miami Beach.

North Shore Open Space Park is also nearby, offering a palm-lined place to walk along the water. Collins Avenue has casual restaurants, coffee shops and low-key bars, while neighboring Surfside and Bal Harbour provide additional shopping and dining possibilities.

Maison Felix does not have a traditional full-service restaurant, but I did not find the lack of a large restaurant inconvenient. There are places to eat within walking distance, and exploring them becomes part of experiencing the neighborhood.

South Beach, the Design District, Wynwood and Little Havana are still available when you want more movement, music and color. You can spend the day exploring Miami, have dinner in another part of the city and then return to North Beach. There is something wonderful about stepping away from all that is South Beach and slipping back through the entrance to your sanctuary.

Related: The Golden Rules of Stress-Free Cruising, According to a Lifelong Traveler

Zippy Sandler

A Different Kind of Miami Vacation

Miami is exhilarating, but it can also be exhausting. Maison Felix gives you permission to experience the city differently. You can dip into Miami’s energy when you want it and then return somewhere that feels protected from the noise.

There are trips we take because we want to see something new, and there are trips we take because we need to feel like ourselves again. Maison Felix feels made for both.

It is the kind of place that makes you want to finish that book, call an old friend or sit quietly with your own thoughts. It is ideal for someone who has spent too much time taking care of everyone and everything else and needs to remember what it feels like to have nothing expected of her.

Sometimes renewal does not require a wellness retreat, a complicated itinerary or a week of scheduled treatments. Sometimes it is a beautiful room, a quiet pool, a croissant and coffee in the morning, a book in your hand and nowhere you need to be. Sometimes it is walking to the beach, letting the ocean wash over your feet and returning to a room that feels more like a private residence than a hotel. And sometimes it is simply remembering that you are worth taking this time for yourself.

Perhaps the most unexpected thing about Maison Felix is that it does not merely feel like a place to stay in Miami Beach. It feels like a place to renew and rejuvenate the soul. A place to remember what it is like to move slowly, notice beautiful things and have absolutely nothing expected of you.

In a city that has become very good at screaming for your attention, Maison Felix whispers. Maybe that is exactly why I loved it.

It feels like finding a secret door in Miami Beach, opening it and discovering a world you never expected to be there. And for a few days, you get to make that world your own.

Related: After 20 Years Away, I Returned to Providence and Found The Secret Spots For Those Over 50

The world’s oldest person is officially 117 years old. Ethel Caterham celebrated her milestone birthday among family and friends at the Hallmark Lakeview Care Home in England.

Despite her age, Caterham revealed in a statement that the past year had “many firsts” for her, including meeting King Charles III.

Related: Iconic Hollywood Bombshell Who Performed With Dean Martin Dies at 93

“Thank you for all of the kind birthday wishes. Even at 117, I’ve had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King,” she wrote. “I’ve had a lovely day celebrating with my family and friends, and I look forward to seeing what next year brings.”

The King visited Caterham in September 2025, shortly after her 116th birthday, and presented her with a signed card.

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Caterham officially became the world’s oldest woman in April 2025, following the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas at 116 years old. However, Caterham is not the oldest living woman in history… yet. That honor goes to a French woman by the name of Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years and 164 days, as reported by Guinness World Records.

According to The Mirror, Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, and was the youngest of eight siblings. Caterham met her husband, Norman, in India, where she was working as an au pair, in 1931. Sadly, he passed away in 1976.

She raised two daughters, Gem and Anne, but they both also died before her. Caterham has three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, drove until she was 97, and survived COVID in 2020.

Caterham’s granddaughter wrote a sweet tribute on her 110th birthday and revealed her secret to living a long life.

“When asked what her secret sauce is for long life, she always says keeping positive. But I also think it’s that she stays present. She doesn’t retreat into the past; she is bang up to date, and she loves a matching shoe and bag combo – and her dress was way nicer than all of ours at her party,” she wrote. “All in all, she’s just a force of nature and makes you feel that you can do stuff, because she bloody well is.”

We have a feeling she will be the next Guinness World Record holder!

It’s not uncommon for classics to have multiple versions by different artists, as Rudy Clark composed “It’s In His Kiss,” sung by Merry Clayton, and became a standout hit in the ’60s and ’90s.

Some may know “It’s in His Kiss” also as “The Shoop Shoop Song,” and it was originally released in 1963 by Clayton. The track was released years before she would become known for her powerful vocals in the duet with Mick Jagger for “Gimme Shelter.” Sadly, her version of the 1963 song failed to enter the charts. It wasn’t until a year later, when it was covered by Betty Everett, that the song reached its first wave of success.

It was reported that Calvin Carter, the chief A&R man for the Chicago-located Vee-Jay Records, was in New York looking for new material for the company. With Everett having had success covering “You’re No Good,” Carter felt “It’s In His Kiss” was the perfect follow-up. The singer originally thought the track was childish, but agreed anyway to record it.

Carter was right when Everett’s version landed at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. At the time, Billboard didn’t have an R&B chart, but her cover landed at No. 1 in the genre. “It’s In His Kiss” would go through a few more covers, like Linda Lewis’s, which became the first major UK hit and just bubbled under the Billboard Hot 100. Her version was instead a disco track thanks to the suggestion of Clive Davis wanting to rework a classic.

Fast forward decades, and the original pop track would gain a resurgence in 1990 thanks to Cher. The music icon covered the track as part of the 1990 family comedy-drama Mermaids, in which she starred. “It’s in His Kiss” was played during the closing credits of the film and was released to coincide with its November release. Cher’s cover would land her at No.1 in the UK, her first chart-topper as a solo artist. It would also land at No. 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the charts internationally.

Peter Asher produced the track with Cher and revealed in an interview with SongFacts that the track was already scheduled to appear in the film.

“The song was already chosen. They were going to sing it in the movie anyway and they just wanted a proper record version for the end titles,” he said.

“That one I cut without Cher’s input entirely. I just did it the way I thought she should do it. I had one conversation with Cher about the key, and that was it. And then she showed up and it was all done. She liked it, luckily.”

The producer also explained that he never recorded the track with Linda Ronstadt, but she “used to sing it sometimes.” Ronstadt and Phoebe Snow performed “The Shoop Shoop Song” as a duet in 1979 for an episode of Saturday Night Live, with the former later recording it for her Mad Love album.

Related: 1964 Pop Song, Covered by Dolly Parton 20 Years Later, Became a No. 1 International Hit

The Rolling Stones‘ “Start Me Up” just picked up a fresh accolade more than four decades after it hit radio: Billboard ranked it No. 21 on its staff list of the 100 best No. 2 hits in Hot 100 history, published this month.

The song never actually made it to No. 1. It spent three weeks stalled at the runner-up spot in the fall of 1981, held off the top by Christopher Cross’s “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do).” Billboard’s staff singled it out anyway, crediting Keith Richards’ opening riff and Mick Jagger’s vocal delivery for a sound where “it’s the energy of the Rolling Stones incarnate.”

That riff took an unusually long road to get there. The track dates back to sessions nearly a decade earlier, when the band first attempted it as a reggae number during the mid-to-late 1970s and quietly shelved it. Richards has said the problem was never coming up with the song, it was finishing it.

It was engineer Chris Kimsey who eventually rescued the track. While digging through old tapes ahead of 1981’s Tattoo You, he found an early rock-leaning take buried among the reggae versions and brought it back to the band. Jagger later gave Richards full credit for the foundation of the song, telling Rolling Stone, “It was Keith’s great riff, and I wrote the rest.”

Once released, “Start Me Up” became the Stones’ biggest U.S. hit of the 1980s. It spent 13 weeks atop Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart, a record that stood until 1994, and later found a second life in 1995 when Microsoft licensed it for the launch of Windows 95. The band has opened concerts with it ever since, including their 2006 Super Bowl halftime show.

Nearly 45 years after almost being left in a vault for good, “Start Me Up” is still finding new reasons to get talked about.

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Late summer and early fall can bring plenty of unpredictable rain, making now a smart time to have a reliable rain jacket on hand. You don’t need to spend a fortune to find one that keeps you dry, either. The right option can balance weather protection, comfort, and style while giving you something you’ll reach for well beyond the season.

One great option is the Gidhrie Hooded Waterproof Rain Jacket. Right now, it’s 48% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $36 to just $19. For a practical layer you can use for everything from rainy commutes to weekend outings, that’s a pretty great deal.

Gidhrie Hooded Waterproof Rain Jacket, From $19 (was $36) at Walmart 

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The jacket comes in black, purple, and white and is available in sizes medium through XXL. Its waterproof, windproof fabric is designed to protect against heavy rain and harsh weather while remaining lightweight and easy to pack. The adjustable hood, functional inner and outer pockets, and compact design make it especially handy when you’re dealing with unpredictable forecasts.

Thoughtful details make it easy to adjust to changing conditions. The hood and hem can be tightened for a more secure fit, while elastic cuffs help keep rain and chilly air from getting in. The hood is also detachable, so you can remove it when you don’t need the extra coverage. Despite the protective design, the lightweight fabric is made for comfortable wear without feeling bulky or restrictive.

Related: Keen’s ‘Ridiculously Comfortable’ Hiking Boots Are 52% Off Just in Time for Sweater-Weather Hikes

It’s versatile enough for plenty of everyday activities, too. Wear it for hiking, camping, commuting, running errands, casual outings, or outdoor events when rain is in the forecast. Since it folds down easily, you can keep it in a backpack or larger bag and have it ready whenever the weather takes a turn.

One reviewer described it as “nice quality,” adding, “It has a thick material, but isn’t too heavy. It offers plenty of protection and has many closures to keep you covered and the rain out.” Another said it’s “totally water-resistant” and has a “lightweight lining,” adding, “This is a great everyday basic jacket that will be your new go-to outwear!”

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For an affordable layer that combines weather protection with everyday versatility, the Gidhrie Hooded Waterproof Rain Jacket is a great pick. And with Walmart’s current 48% discount, you can save over $15 and grab this practical rainy-day staple for just $19.

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After more than six decades of continuous touring, one of the foundational groups of the British Invasion has officially decided to park their tour bus for good.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Hollies announced their complete retirement from live performances via Instagram. This brings an end to a road run that matched The Rolling Stones for pure longevity.

The decision stems from an emotional pact between the band’s last two classic-era members. Lead guitarist Tony Hicks, 80, who joined in early 1963, made the difficult choice to step away due to health reasons. Following, drummer Bobby Elliott, 84, who also joined the band in ’63, refused to continue without his lifelong bandmate.

The band shared the following message in an official statement. It read, “Due to health reasons, Tony has decided to step away from touring.”

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The statement continued, “Out of respect for Tony and everything they have shared throughout their remarkable journey together, Bobby has also decided to retire from touring. After more than six decades, The Hollies’ touring career will come to a close with immense gratitude to the fans who have supported them around the world.”

Fan response was bittersweet. “This is gutting. Lots of love to Tony and Bobby who have worked their socks off over the past 60+ years, to put it lightly! One of the greatest bands of the era. Very sorry I never saw you. Happy retirement,” wrote one follower.

A second fan penned, “I am very saddened to hear this, but I know there will come a time for all of us, including our rock music legends, to get our hard-earned rest and prioritize our health. We all owe you a huge thanks and gratitude for all of the six long decades of dedicating to all of your fans by delivering great music. Thank you all so much.”

The Hollies band: Graham Nash, Bernie Calvert, Bobby Elliott, Tony Hicks and Allan Clarke/Ivan Keeman/Redferns

A third Instagram user penned, “I’m disappointed to hear this, but I completely understand. I hope Tony and Bobby, as well as everyone else who are still associated with The Hollies, or not anymore, stay healthy as well. I’ll always stay loyal to this amazing group, always spread their great music around to people of all generations, and of course, keep on bumping their great tunes!”

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, the Manchester-born group persevered through original singer Allan Clarke‘s exit and Graham Nash‘s high-profile departure to co-found Crosby, Stills & Nash. Through line-up changes and eras, Hicks and Elliott remained the beating heart of the live show, and The Hollies remained one of the few early-1960s British acts to tour virtually every year for over six decades.

For millions of classic rock fans who grew up on the band’s rock anthems like “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.” “The Air That I Breathe,” “Bus Stop,” and “Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress),” the decision marks the bittersweet close of a legendary era. Beyond the charts, the band’s three-part harmonies and songwriting shaped the very DNA of modern pop-rock.

Sixty years is an unprecedented run for any band, but the choice for The Hollies members to step away together makes their final live bow feel complete. By prioritizing their bond over one last tour, Tony Hicks and Bobby Elliott leave behind a friendship and performance legacy that will forever live in rock music infamy.

Related: 1977 Country Gold Hit, Written by a 20-Year-Old Future Jimmy Buffett Collaborator, Launched a 50-Year Legacy Career

For theme park fans and California coaster enthusiasts who’ve spent years anxiously tracking construction walls, testing footage, and opening delays, the wait is officially over.

Knott’s Berry Farm has officially reopened one of the most iconic attractions in its history, relaunching the legendary Montezooma’s Revenge as MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress.

Originally debuting in 1978 as the world’s very first flywheel-launched roller coaster, the historic ride has thrilled generations with its signature zero-to-55-mph launch in just four seconds, soaring into a 76-foot vertical loop before shooting up a towering 148-foot spike and reversing backward through the station.

Now, following an extensive, multi-year revitalization project, the classic ride returns with a host of 21st-century upgrades designed to ensure its place in the park for decades to come.

Related: Knott’s Soak City Unveils Two First-of-Their-Kind Water Rides Debuting in 2027

Montezooma Revenge B-Roll (1:31) What’s New Inside the Forbidden Fortress

Knott's Berry Farm

Rather than simply restoring the vintage track, Knott’s undertook a comprehensive modernization effort to elevate both comfort and reliability while keeping the coaster’s beloved layout intact.

The reimagined attraction features:

• All-New Trains & Track Restoration: Brand-new ride vehicles alongside fully refurbished track sections and structural supports for a smoother ride.
• Modern Motorized Launch: An innovative new motorized launch system designed to maximize daily performance and eliminate maintenance headaches.
• Immersive Temple Storytelling: A new narrative surrounding a mysterious forbidden temple and the lost treasure of Montezooma, taking riders on a story-driven journey from the queue through the launch sequence.

“MonteZOOMa has been part of the Knott’s experience for generations of guests,” said Raffi Kaprelyan, park president of Knott’s Berry Farm. “Our goal was to preserve everything people love about this legendary coaster while introducing new technology, enhanced reliability and an immersive new story that will inspire a whole new generation to ride.”

Related: America’s Newest High-Speed Amusement Park Finally Has an Official Opening Date

Fans React to the Coaster’s Return

Knott's Berry Farm

As news of the official opening hit social media, long-time park fans and nostalgic riders quickly flooded the comments to celebrate the return of a California staple.

“Rode it last weekend. Loved it,” shared one parkgoer, while another praised the ride’s enhanced intensity, adding, “It’s actually scary 😍but good ! 10/10.”

For many guests, the ride’s return is also a trip down memory lane: “My first ever looping roller coaster and I got a jaguar interaction as well. 🥹🥹🥹” wrote another commenter, while coaster buffs praised the updated aesthetic, noting, “The theming is a major improvement.”

Related: Six Flags Just Revealed Its Biggest Halloween Lineup Ever—Featuring ‘Friday the 13th,’ ‘Final Destination,’ and ‘The Blair Witch Project’

How to Ride for Less

The ride’s grand reopening aligns with the launch of Knott’s 2027 Gold Season Pass rollout, offering unlimited admission for the rest of 2026 and the entire 2027 season at the lowest locked-in price point.

Beyond unlimited access to MonteZOOMa, passholders also receive admission to Knott’s seasonal festivals, neighboring Knott’s Soak City Waterpark (which debuts two new family raft slides, Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze, in 2027), and regional access across West Coast Six Flags properties like Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Whether you grew up braving the original launch or are introducing a new generation to backward loops, one of America’s true coaster legends is officially back on track.

Related: Six Flags Is Turning ‘Final Destination’ Into a Maze—With a Gruesome Twist

“Incense and Peppermints” became a defining soundtrack to the psychedelic era, but the voice behind it didn’t actually belong to a member of Strawberry Alarm Clock.

Released in 1967, the kaleidoscopic rocker featured lead vocals from Greg Munford, a 16 year-old California singer who happened to be at the studio when the song was recorded. His performance helped turn an unusual collection of swirling keyboards, fuzzed-out guitars, and surreal lyrics into an enduring hit.

The song had an equally unconventional beginning.

Its music grew out of an instrumental by band members Mark Weitz and Ed King, while lyricists John S. Carter and Tim Gilbert supplied the words.

“When the music was written by myself in early ’67 at my home in Van Nuys California, with my request for some help on the bridge of the song from Ed King, it was mid day, and no drugs were involved whatsoever,” Weitz later recalled. “I came up with this musical idea and chord progressions that evolved that afternoon in a short time to what basically was recorded with some minimal editing to cut down the almost 5 minute original down to 3 minutes and change. As for the lyrics, that was the brainchild of John Carter. Carter was under contract with Frank Slay also as a producer.”

The band’s members weren’t particularly enthusiastic about the lyrics, and none wanted to sing them. Munford, who sang with another local group, the Shapes, was brought in to handle the vocal instead.

“We didn’t really know him,” Weitz told Crazy On Classic Rock. “Somebody said, ‘Hey Greg, Why don’t you get up there and try singing this,’ because he had his own band and he was starting his own band and so we ran the track and Greg sang the lead vocal and he sounded the best at it and we kept it and to this day Greg’s voice is on ‘Incense and Peppermints.'”

That impromptu decision produced an unmistakable performance.

Munford’s youthful voice cuts through the track’s dense psychedelic arrangement, delivering abstract lines that perfectly suited the increasingly experimental sound of 1967. Although he wasn’t a member of Strawberry Alarm Clock, his vocal became forever associated with the band’s signature recording.

“Incense and Peppermints” soon traveled far beyond California’s psychedelic rock scene.

After initially appearing as the B-side of “The Birdman of Alkatrash,” the song attracted attention from radio DJs and was subsequently promoted as the main attraction. It climbed all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending one week at the top and giving Strawberry Alarm Clock its biggest hit.

The band followed its breakthrough with songs including “Tomorrow” and “Sit With the Guru,” but nothing matched the cultural footprint of “Incense and Peppermints.” The track has remained a familiar presence on oldies and psychedelic rock playlists and has surfaced repeatedly in movies, television, and other celebrations of late-’60s counterculture.

“We really, really appreciate the idea that people are still interested in us and we don’t take that lightly,” bassist George Bunnell told Goldmine in 2025. “When we play at the Whisky A Go Go every year, our audience is young. Many of them are under thirty. They all look like they’re ten to us. They’re singing the lyrics to our old songs, and now they’re singing the lyrics to the newer songs as well.”

Fifty-nine years later, “Incense and Peppermints” still captures the colorful experimentation of its era. And behind one of 1967’s most recognizable psychedelic hits was an unexpected voice: a 16 year-old California singer who wasn’t even part of the band.

Related: 1975 Soft Rock Song, Inspired by George Harrison, Is Still a Beloved Hit 51 Years Later

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Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, it never hurts to give your kitchen a refresh. If you want to make your time in the kitchen more efficient, a utensil crock is an easy upgrade. Placed by your stove or prep area, it’ll give you easy access to your spatulas, tongs, and ladles without having to deal with overstuffed drawers. Those adorned with chic designs are the best options, doubling as a stylish accent that’ll elevate your space. You can find a ton of budget-friendly options at Amazon that seamlessly blend style, practicality, and quality. 

One of our favorite finds is this Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock, and it’s currently on sale at Amazon for a limited time. Normally retailing for $30, this checkered crock is now marked down to just $25 in three colorways, including black and white, red and white, and yellow and white. This is a deal that you won’t want to miss because, according to reviewers, it’s “very much like the MacKenzie-Childs’ version,” which sells for quadruple the price.  

@timetoorganize

This is the perfect gift this season. Whether its a housewarming gift, birthday or Christmas. Whoever receives this will love it! Extra Tall Courtly Check Crock Utensil Holder #mackenziechilds #giftideas #housewarming #fyp #tiktokshopblackfriday

♬ Pretty (Sped Up) – MEYY Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock, From $25 (was $30) at Amazon

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Retro and whimsical, this crock boasts an eye-catching checkered design with a frosted finish that gives it a matte look. It’ll give your kitchen counter a chic accent, evoking a sense of nostalgia and making it feel like a classic diner. 

Cooking utensils like spatulas, whisks, and wooden spoons are bulky and unnecessarily take up way too much drawer space. If your compartments are currently cluttered or filled to the brim, this crock is a simple storage solution. It can help you streamline your drawers and give you a ton of space back, while allowing you to easily grab your utensils, making meal prep and cooking a lot more convenient.  

Measuring 7.2 inches tall with a 6-inch diameter, this vessel can easily hold 10 to 15 utensils and gadgets. Many reviewers were amazed by the size, commenting that it was able to fit a lot more than they thought it could. 

“It holds a lot of kitchen utensils which frees up space in my kitchen drawers,” one reviewer raved. Another shopper commented that it’s “adorable and adds charm” to their kitchen. The same shopper also said that “it keeps everything organized and within easy reach.”

Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock, From $25 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This crock is made of ceramic, and numerous customers noted that the quality is top-notch and added that it feels very sturdy. Each piece is handmade and hand colored, giving it a unique feel that adds to its artisanal charm. The base of this crock is equipped with a cork pad, protecting your surfaces from scratches and dents. It also keeps the crock stable and prevents it from slipping. 

While intended for utensils, this crock isn’t limited to the kitchen. Gorgeous and trendy, it’ll look fabulous in any part of your home. You can use it as a vase, ice bucket, or even an umbrella stand. Alternatively, it could help you organize paintbrushes, office supplies, beauty tools, or anything else you see fit! 

This crock is also available in a pink and white style, which is currently at full price. You can also grab a two-piece set with a small and large crock. Those normally retail for $40 and are now on sale for $36. 

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Related: Walmart’s ‘Adorable’ $18 Pumpkin Glasses Are the Ultimate Summerween Kitchen Find

Just as decorative as it is practical, the Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock is a fantastic investment worth adding to your kitchen. Head to Amazon and snag it on sale for just $25. Be sure to hurry because it’ll be available at this fantastic price for a limited time! 

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At just 8 years old, Kacey Musgraves was already learning to yodel. By her early teens, she was performing professionally, and before long, the Texas native would become one of country music’s most distinctive voices.

Born Aug. 21, 1988, in Golden, Texas, Musgraves turns 38 this year. More than a decade after releasing her first major-label album, she has become an eight-time Grammy winner whose music has pushed the boundaries of what country music can sound like.

Her career has been defined by sharp songwriting, unconventional ideas and a willingness to tackle subjects that don’t always fit neatly into country music’s traditional mold.

Kacey Musgraves Was Writing Songs as a Child

Musgraves discovered music early.

She learned to yodel at age 8 and began playing guitar and mandolin in her early tween years. As a child, she and her younger sister, Kelly, performed at community events and competed in contests around Texas.

In 1999, Musgraves formed the Texas Two Bits with fellow young performer Alina Tatum. The duo performed together for several years before eventually going their separate ways.

Musgraves continued pursuing music on her own, releasing two independent albums, Movin’ On in 2001 and Wanted: One Good Cowboy in 2002.

She also competed on Nashville Star in 2007, finishing seventh.

The experience didn’t make her an overnight star, but it helped propel her toward Nashville. She moved to the city in 2008 and began working as a songwriter while developing her own sound.

One of the songs she wrote during that period would eventually change everything.

Kacey Musgraves Refused to Play It Safe With ‘Merry Go ‘Round’

Musgraves released her major-label debut album, Same Trailer Different Park, in 2013.

Its lead single, “Merry Go ‘Round,” immediately established what made her different.

The song offered a darker, more complicated look at small-town life than many mainstream country hits of the era. Some radio and record executives reportedly worried that the song was too depressing to work as a debut single, but Musgraves fought for its release.

“Merry Go ‘Round” won the Grammy for Best Country Song in 2014, giving Musgraves her first Grammy win.

She followed it with “Follow Your Arrow,” another song that embraced individuality and challenged expectations within the genre.

The song became one of the clearest examples of Musgraves’ approach to songwriting: funny, direct and willing to say something that might make people uncomfortable.

“Follow Your Arrow” went on to win CMA Song of the Year in 2014.

‘Golden Hour’ Changed Kacey Musgraves’ Career

Musgraves continued building her reputation with Pageant Material in 2015, but her career reached another level with 2018’s Golden Hour.

The album incorporated country instrumentation alongside psychedelic and electronic influences, a combination Musgraves described as “galactic country.”

Songs including “Slow Burn,” “Butterflies,” “Space Cowboy,” “High Horse” and “Rainbow” showcased a softer, more expansive side of her songwriting.

At the 2019 Grammy Awards, Golden Hour won Album of the Year, while Musgraves also took home Grammys for Best Country Album, Best Country Song for “Space Cowboy” and Best Country Solo Performance for “Butterflies.”

The album has continued to find new listeners, with Musgraves’ official store still featuring multiple vinyl editions of Golden Hour.

Kacey Musgraves Became a Country Music Trailblazer

Musgraves’ willingness to experiment has been a defining part of her career.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum honored her with the exhibition “Kacey Musgraves: All of the Colors” in 2019 and 2020, documenting her life and career through stage costumes, handwritten lyrics, instruments, awards and other personal artifacts.

The exhibit traced her journey from a young yodeling performer in Golden, Texas, to one of the biggest names in modern country music.

Her later albums have continued that evolution. Star-Crossed arrived in 2021, followed by Deeper Well in 2024. “The Architect,” from Deeper Well, won the Grammy for Best Country Song, while “I Remember Everything,” her collaboration with Zach Bryan, won the Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance.

That latter win also gave Musgraves a remarkable distinction: She became the only artist to have won a Grammy in every major country category.

At 38, she’s already built a résumé that many artists could spend a lifetime trying to match.

RELATED: Reba McEntire Admits She Missed Out on ‘Fun’ During Her Early Career

Metallica has praised Japanese singer Ado after she gave the band’s 1991 hit “Enter Sandman” an unexpected role at Summer Sonic 2026, performing the song both at the start and end of her sets.

The American heavy metal band reacted to Ado’s performance on X after clips from the festival began circulating online. Metallica said it was surprised by the way the young singer used one of its best-known songs during her headline appearance.

“Watching younger generations find their way to our music never gets old… it’s one of the best parts of doing this. But we’ve never seen it done quite like Ado just did it. Opening AND closing Summer Sonic with “Enter Sandman”?! We’re blown away. Thank you!”

irk Hammett and Lars Ulrich of Metallica perform at Levi’s Stadium on June 20, 2025 in Santa Clara, California.

Photo by Steve Jennings/Getty Images

Ado had first used “Enter Sandman” to open her Tokyo set. She then brought the Metallica song back for the encore in Osaka, making it part of both ends of her festival appearances.

若い世代が俺たちの音楽に辿り着いてくれるのを見るのは、いつだって嬉しいもの。こうして活動を続けている中でも最高だと思えることのひとつだ。でもAdoがやったような形は今まで見たことがない。サマーソニックのステージの最初と最後に“Enter Sandman”だって?!… https://t.co/ArXcSDvHRS

— Metallica (@Metallica) August 18, 2026

The moment stood out because Ado did not present the track as a routine cover. In her own message about the performance, she explained that the song choice came from her respect for Summer Sonic’s long history as a rock festival and for the artists who have performed there.

Ado described the Summer Sonic appearance as a major honor and said she did not expect the crowd to call for an encore.

“Honestly, I didn’t expect to hear calls for an encore, so when I heard them, my heart truly swelled with emotion,” she wrote.

For the encore, Ado performed “Enter Sandman” for the first time. She also used the song as the opening number, giving the 1991 Metallica hit a new place in her festival set.

Ado made clear that the decision was about more than simply choosing a famous rock song. She said the cover was driven by “a deep respect” as a Japanese artist for the 25 years of history Summer Sonic has built as a rock festival.

The performance gave “Enter Sandman” another connection between heavy metal and a newer generation of artists. 

Released in 1991, “Enter Sandman” became the opening track and lead single from Metallica’s self-titled fifth album. The song was written by James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich and Kirk Hammett, while Hetfield wrote the lyrics.

The track became one of Metallica’s most recognizable songs. It reached No. 16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and No. 5 on the U.K. Singles Chart. Its success also helped push the Metallica album to huge worldwide sales.

The reaction also comes as Metallica remains active. The band recently marked the 10th anniversary of the live debut of “Hardwired” with a newly recut live video from its 2016 performance in Minneapolis. Metallica is also scheduled for a series of performances at the Sphere in Las Vegas beginning in October 2026.

But for fans following the latest Metallica-related moment, it was a Japanese singer’s festival cover that captured the band’s attention.

Related: Founding Member of Iconic ’70s Rock Band Admits Pain Over Frank Beard’s Death

In 1954, a future Rock and Roll Hall of Famer was born in Massachusetts, and he had barely learned to walk before he started making noise behind a drum kit.

Steve Smith, best known for his multiple stints behind the drums with Journey, turns 72 on Aug. 21.

Nicknamed “Machine Gun” by bandmate Steve Perry for his formidable skills behind the kit, Smith helped power Journey through the band’s enormously successful early-’80s run, playing on hits including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Any Way You Want It,” “Faithfully” and “Who’s Crying Now.”

But despite becoming one of rock’s most celebrated drummers, Smith has always considered himself a jazz musician at heart.

Steve Smith Started Playing Drums as a Child

Born Aug. 21, 1954, Smith received his first drum kit when he was just 2 years old. He began taking formal lessons at 9 from Boston-area jazz drummer Bill Flanagan and got his first “real” drum set at 12.

Those early jazz influences would stay with him throughout his career. In a 2023 interview with Glide Magazine, Smith recalled becoming deeply interested in jazz by the time he was about 12, listening to the big bands of Buddy Rich, Stan Kenton, Count Basie and Maynard Ferguson.

It wasn’t until later in the ’60s that Smith developed an interest in rock, thanks in part to drummers such as Jimi Hendrix Experience’s Mitch Mitchell, Cream’s Ginger Baker and Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham, whose jazz-influenced approaches appealed to him.

After studying at the Berklee College of Music, Smith toured with jazz violinist Jean-Luc Ponty and later Ronnie Montrose before joining Journey in 1978.

Smith told Glide that replacing Journey drummer Aynsley Dunbar wasn’t intimidating, in part because he wasn’t interested in simply copying his predecessor.

“I was coming in with a new concept and that was my focus,” Smith said, explaining that he wanted to bring something new to Journey’s music rather than emulate Dunbar’s playing.

Steve Smith Helped Power Journey’s Biggest Years

Smith’s first Journey stint lasted from 1978 to 1985, putting him behind the kit for the band’s blockbuster albums Escape and Frontiers, among others. He later returned from 1995 to 1998 and again from 2015 to 2020.

His work during Journey’s peak years eventually helped earn Smith a place among the most celebrated drummers in rock history.

Rolling Stone ranked Smith No. 36 on its list of the 100 Greatest Drummers of All Time, praising the “superhuman chops” he brought to Journey and singling out his intricate open-handed drum pattern on “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The publication argued that Smith’s work on the song is “as exceptional as Perry’s skyscraping vocals.”

Smith’s accolades don’t end there. Modern Drummer readers voted him Best All-Around Drummer for five consecutive years from 1987 through 1991. He was inducted into the publication’s Hall of Fame in 2002 and later earned Best Fusion Drummer honors in 2012 and 2015, as well as Best Rock Drummer and MVP in 2017.

Journey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, putting Smith in the Rock Hall alongside Perry, Dunbar, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain and Ross Valory.

Interestingly, Smith doesn’t consider Escape or Frontiers his finest Journey performance.

Asked by Glide which Journey album found him playing at his highest level, Smith chose 1996’s Trial by Fire, the reunion album that marked the final studio release featuring the band’s celebrated Perry-era lineup.

“My drumming at that point had evolved a lot,” Smith explained, saying he had spent years developing his technique and gaining additional studio experience. “I’m really happy with my performance top to bottom on Trial By Fire.”

Steve Smith Has Always Considered Jazz His ‘Home Base’

Despite his place in Journey history, Smith has spent much of his career pursuing the music that first captured his attention as a child.

He formed the jazz fusion group Vital Information in 1983, and the band has continued recording and performing across the decades. Smith has also played with a staggering range of artists, from Mariah Carey and Bryan Adams to Andrea Bocelli, as well as numerous jazz musicians.

Smith told Glide that playing rock nevertheless had an important effect on his musicianship, teaching him to develop drum parts specifically designed to serve individual songs rather than relying primarily on improvisation.

But when given the choice between the two genres, there’s little question where Smith’s heart lies.

“My career has always, in my mind, been about playing Jazz,” he told the outlet, adding that while he enjoys recording rock, he prefers the freedom of performing jazz live.

More than six decades after Smith began taking drum lessons, that childhood passion is still keeping “Machine Gun” behind the kit.

Related: Steve Perry Reunion? Journey Legend Drops Surprise Hint Ahead of Final Concert

In 1977, Andrew Gold released the biggest song of his recording career.

“Lonely Boy,” from the album What’s Wrong with This Picture?, had all of the makings of a No. 1 hit: a catchy melody, poignant lyrics, and backing vocals from Linda Ronstadt.

In an interview posted on his YouTube page, Gold, who died in 2011, once recalled writing and recording “Lonely Boy” while on tour with Ronstadt in 1975. He noted that they would get standing ovations for the song before it was even released, so he knew he had something special.

Once it was released, “Lonely Boy” was a radio smash and spent a whopping five months on the Billboard Hot 100, but amazingly it never cracked the top 5. The song peaked at No. 7 on the music chart amid a 21-week run.

Gold originally thought “Lonely Boy” would be one of those “long songs” that would have to be cut down for radio.

In an interview  with Classic Bands, he said he wrote the song  in “about four hours.”

“I was just in this zone where I can get when I’m writing songs,” he recalled. “It was gonna be a real long song, because back then that’s what people were doing a lot. They would cut it down for radio. But I got bored after the third verse.”

“And then we went out and rehearsed the song, played it on the road during my show as a song we hadn’t recorded yet,” he continued. “We were playing it on the road, and we were getting applause in the middle of the song. A brand-new song, they were going ‘yeah.’ So when we recorded it, I felt very confident about what we were doing.”

RELATED: 1976 Rock Rebellion Anthem Was Written in 20 Minutes

The lyrics to “Lonely Boy” are about a boy who feels neglected by his parents after the birth of his little sister, and the lyrics about a boy born on “a summer day in 1951” lined up with Gold’s August 1951 birthdate, according to American Songwriter. But in an interview with The Independent’s Spencer Leigh, Gold denied that the song was autobiographical.

“Maybe it was a mistake to do that, but I simply put in those details because it was convenient,” the singer-songwriter said. “I hadn’t been a lonely boy at all – I’d had a very happy childhood.”

Fifty years after the release of “Lonely Boy,” the soft rock classic remains one of the most enduring and recognizable hits of the ‘70s.

Related: No. 1 Hit Song of 1976 Was Music Legend’s Clever Response to Critics

My parents still live in my childhood house, which they bought back in the 1990s. And even though they’ve renovated and redecorated a few rooms since then, from the matchy-matchy bedroom sets to the warm color palettes in the family room, there’s absolutely no denying that this is a house of the ’90s.

That said, some ’90s interior design trends are undoubtedly better than others, and a few are even in fashion again today. But which are the best—and the worst—’90s decor trends?

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To find out, we spoke with two interior designers: John O’Hanley, Senior Interior Designer for New York-based design firm Vesta Home, and Michelle Wu, the Denver-based principal designer at Ku Interior Design and strategic advisor at Real Estate Bees.

After dishing on their favorite and least favorite ’90s decor trends, the two designers then collaborated on a final ranking of the best and worst ’90s decor trends. And interestingly, both O’Hanley and Wu have very strong convictions when it comes to 1990s interior design—including a few hot takes and disagreements! Keep reading for both lists.

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The 7 Best ’90s Decor Trends, According to Interior Designers

These are the best interior design trends from the 1990s, according to O’Hanley and Wu.

7. Tiled kitchen countertops

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“This may be controversial because there are definitely reasons why tiled countertops should have stayed in the past, but I’m kind of obsessed with seeing them come back in retro-inspired kitchens,” O’Hanley tells Parade.

And controversial they are—O’Hanley wanted tiled kitchen countertops to be No. 2 on this list, but Wu said they shouldn’t be on the list at all! So, they compromised on putting it in the last place slot.

“I’d actually leave tiled countertops off my best list altogether,” Wu says, noting that “the grout lines make them impractical for a hardworking kitchen surface.”

And although O’Hanley agrees that tile countertops “can be harder to clean and maintain,” that isn’t enough to stop him from recommending them for the right kitchen.

“They can be so good when they’re done intentionally,” he says. “I love the texture and personality they bring into a space. There’s something really charming about a tiled countertop, especially when it feels a little handmade or imperfect. I also think the amount of tile and glaze options available now has really elevated the trend.”

6. Sponge painted walls

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“Sponge painting was everywhere in the ’90s, and I definitely don’t need the actual sponge technique to come back,” says O’Hanley. “But I do think the idea behind it has. People wanted walls to have movement, texture, and depth instead of just being one flat paint color, and they were thinking about the ceiling as part of the overall room too.”

Nowadays, more and more people are embracing textured wall finishes like limewash, Roman clay and plaster, which O’Hanley sees as a “more natural and elevated” version of the trend, “rather than looking like someone literally dabbed a sponge across the wall.”

5. Defined and enclosed spaces

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Open concept floor plans have dominated spaces for a while, but Wu has seen more and more families returning to homes with defined and enclosed rooms, which was popular in the 1990s.

“The pandemic reminded us why enclosed rooms have value,” Wu explains. “When homes suddenly had to accommodate work, school, exercise, entertainment and everyday life at the same time, completely open floor plans didn’t always work. Everyone needs privacy and quiet at certain stages of life, or simply at certain times of the day.”

Related: If You Spot Henredon at Goodwill, Designers Say to Grab It Immediately—Here Are 9 More Vintage Brands Worth Looking for

4. Warm color palettes

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In the 1990s, warm color palettes were often used in homes—and these colors are coming back in a new way.

“Warm colors such as burgundy, forest green and earthy neutrals are returning, but I don’t think the colors themselves were ever the problem,” Wu notes. “What dates a room is often how colors are combined and used. A warm palette can feel completely current when it’s interpreted differently.”

3. Freestanding antique kitchen furniture

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“One thing I really love from ’90s kitchens is the use of freestanding pieces, especially antique hutches,” says O’Hanley. “They made a kitchen feel more collected and organic. Instead of everything being one continuous wall of cabinetry, these pieces added something unique and gave the room a little more character.”

He has observed people “holding onto these really well-made pieces and finding ways to incorporate them into newer spaces instead of getting rid of them,” and notes that the contrast between contemporary and traditional design elements in a kitchen “immediately gives the room personality and a little bit of history.”

2. Pattern and personality

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“I’ve always believed homes should have personality, and the 1990s weren’t afraid of patterns,” Wu says. “I’m glad to see pattern returning, although it works best when it has some breathing room. A successful room needs stars and supporting actors, not every element competing for attention.”

1. Natural wood cabinetry

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Wu has observed a return to natural wood cabinetry in kitchens in recent years.

“Natural wood cabinetry is back, but I’m not sure it ever should have been considered a trend,” says Wu. And that’s because, as she puts it, “wood is timeless.”

“It’s the species, stain and door style that can date a kitchen,” she explains. “Today’s return to wood tone kitchens shows how easily a classic material can be reinterpreted for a different era.”

Related: 35 Things in Your House Right Now That Could Be Worth Money, According to Certified Appraisers

The 5 Worst ’90s Decor Trends, According to Interior Designers

O’Hanley and Wu agree that these are some of the worst design trends from the ’90s.

5. Overly matchy rooms

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When it comes to designing a room, there’s a big difference between subtle coordination and covering everything with the exact same pattern. In the 1990s, some designers took “coordination too far,” according to Wu, often outfitting a room with matching wallpaper borders, upholstery, accessories and more around one single motif.

“Cohesion doesn’t require everything to match,” she says. “I prefer to let a few elements be the stars and allow everything else to support them.”

4. Track lighting

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O’Hanley is very against the “industrial aesthetic” of track lighting in living spaces, and he’s “still actively removing it” from homes.

“The heavy hardware, bulky track, and rows of fixtures can make a ceiling feel busy and harsh,” he says. “Lighting in a home should feel layered, warm, and intentional.”

In fact, O’Hanley hates track lighting so much that he originally suggested ranking it as the No. 1 worst ’90s decor trend. However, Wu isn’t quite so anti-track lighting—so the two designers compromised at putting it in the No. 4 slot on this list.

As Wu explains, sometimes, track lighting is “the most practical solution, particularly when adding recessed lighting isn’t feasible.” She adds that “today’s track lighting has come a long way from its ’90s counterparts.”

O’Hanley also acknowledges that some modern versions of track lighting aren’t so bad, as they “are much cleaner and more thoughtful, with slimmer tracks, smaller fixtures and systems that almost disappear into the ceiling.”

Related: The Unexpected Way Americans Are Making Suburban Living More Affordable

3. Awkward architectural features

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In the 1990s, a lot of designers added “deep niches, arbitrary ledges, odd angles and other architectural features” to homes, which Wu believes was “simply to create ‘interest.'”

However, contemporary homeowners often want to get rid of these features, which isn’t always easy.

“I’ve remodeled homes where we had to design around or disguise these features because they served no useful purpose,” she says. “Architecture should improve how a space functions, not create a problem the next renovation has to solve.”

2. Matching bedroom sets

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“In the ’90s, matching furniture sets made things easy,” says O’Hanley. “You could basically buy an entire room in one shot and recreate the same look you saw in a showroom or at your friend’s house.”

However, he is very much over this “boring and flat” trend, noting that “a room is much more interesting when you mix complementary forms, materials and finishes.”

If you want your bedroom to feel more personal, collect furniture that is cohesive rather than matchy-matchy. He jokes: “I want pieces to feel like cousins, but I don’t necessarily want them to be siblings.”

1. Carpeted bathrooms

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Wu and O’Hanley agree on the top 1990s trend that should never make a comeback: carpeted bathrooms.

“Carpet in bathrooms should stay firmly in the past,” declares Wu. “Bathrooms are wet environments, and an absorbent floor covering simply doesn’t make sense from a maintenance or hygiene standpoint. We have far better ways to make a bathroom feel warm and comfortable today.”

Up Next:

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Sources:

• John O’Hanley, Senior Interior Designer at Vesta Home
• Michelle Wu, principal designer at Ku Interior Design and strategic advisor at Real Estate Bees