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By late 1967, The Monkees were beginning to push far beyond the polished pop sound that first made them television and music superstars.

One of the clearest examples of that evolution was "Star Collector," a standout track from the band's album Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd. Released on Nov. 6, 1967, the song featured Davy Jones, who was still just 21 years old at the time.

"Star Collector" showcased a more experimental side of the band.

Written by legendary songwriting team Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, the song tells the story of a woman who collects famous romantic partners rather than lasting relationships. Its witty lyrics were paired with an inventive arrangement that reflected the psychedelic influences becoming increasingly popular during the late 1960s.

"I've never claimed to be a pop star," Jones said in a 1967 interview. "I'm an actor and the public has made me a rock and roll singer—now I'm pleased about that. It's bought me a lot of good things and I'm still new enough to all this success to enjoy the crowds, the autograph hunters and the adulation."

The recording also broke new musical ground.

Produced by Chip Douglas, "Star Collector" famously incorporated one of the earliest uses of the Moog synthesizer on a rock recording. Performed by electronic music pioneer Paul Beaver, the futuristic sounds added an otherworldly quality that helped distinguish the track from much of the pop music being released at the time.

Although it was never released as a standalone single, the song became one of the highlights of Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd.

The album reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, becoming The Monkees' fourth consecutive chart-topping record in the United States. As the years passed, "Star Collector" earned a reputation as one of the band's finest deep cuts, admired for its adventurous production and memorable vocal performances.

Today, it remains an essential part of The Monkees' legacy.

Fans and critics alike continue to celebrate the song as evidence of the group's artistic growth during one of the most creative periods of its career. Its combination of sharp songwriting, psychedelic experimentation, and Davy Jones' expressive vocals has helped it endure well beyond the television era that first introduced the band to audiences.

"Everybody said The Monkees were the American answer to The Beatles, and that was not the case," drummer Micky Dolenz told Goldmine. "The Monkees was a television show about this band who wanted to be The Beatles and on the television show, we never made it. It was that struggle for success that I think helped endear it to an entire generation of kids that were in their basements and living rooms and garages, playing and practicing and forming bands and who wanted to be The Beatles and maybe eventually The Monkees."

Fifty-nine years after its release, "Star Collector" continues to captivate listeners with its inventive sound and timeless charm. Featuring a 21 year-old Davy Jones at the microphone, the 1967 rocker remains one of The Monkees' most beloved and forward-thinking recordings.

Related: 1997 Iconic Ballad, With 14-Year-Old Singer LeAnn Rimes, Ranked Among Greatest Songs of All Time

It's a testament to the power of the Grateful Dead that over 60 years after the band first started, fans are still arguing about which albums, songs, and individual performances are the greatest. In fact, Rolling Stone just released an all-new ranking of the Grateful Dead's "100 Best Songs of All Time."

Considering the Grateful Dead recorded hundreds upon hundreds of songs over the years, narrowing the list down to just 100 tunes was no doubt quite a challenge, but most fans are likely to find their favorites represented. The order of the songs, on the other hand, will no doubt spark more than a few heated debates. So what made the top 10?

Coming in at #10 was the epic "Dark Star," known to last over 20 minutes live, followed by the Grateful Dead's "only full-fledged triptych" both onstage and in the studio at #9: “Help on the Way/Slipknot!/Franklin’s Tower." In 8th place was "Eyes of the World" (which Jerry Garcia once said he didn't remember writing). The beloved pairing of "China Cat Sunflower" and "I Know You Rider" took the 7th spot; "Uncle John's Band," the opening track from Workingman’s Dead, was ranked at #6.

The 16-minute, seven-part-suite "Terrapin Station" kicked off the top 5, followed by "Morning Dew" (a cover of a folk song by singer-songwriter Bonnie Dobson) at #4. "Ripple," with a melody written by Garcia at sunrise, came in 3rd, with the heartbreaking "Box of Rain," featuring Phil Lesh on lead vocals for the first time on a Dead album, in 2nd place.

And taking the #1 spot on the list? The "centerpiece of the Dead's 1974 album, From the Mars Hotel," "Scarlet Begonias."

"The lyrics were more autobiographical than most things [Robert] Hunter wrote for the Dead, based on a chance encounter in London where he first locked eyes with the woman he would eventually marry," wrote Rolling Stone's Benjy Eisen. "In song form, she appears as an epitomized hippie archetype with 'rings on her fingers,' 'bells on her shoes,' and flowers 'tucked into her curls.'"

"Scarlet Begonias" went on to become "an eternal staple of their live shows, where the song’s extended outro always segued into the intro for 'Fire on the Mountain,'" Eisen continued. "The jam that bridges them — different every time — is at the very heart of what the Grateful Dead are all about."

Related: 1973 12-Minute-Long Song, Ranked as Bob Weir's Best Ever, Was One of His Biggest Embarrassments

As Hunter explained in a 1978 interview, per the Good Ol' Grateful Dead Podcast, "Scarlet Begonias" was "originally pages and pages long."

"There was a very, very involved story there. It was like quite a plot. And it finally got honed down to just the basic moves," Hunter said, adding, "I've just been learning how to perform it with a single guitar, and it's a lot of fun. It's really a pleasure. It was originally called 'Bristol Girls,' and there’s one line in it that I’m using: 'Look all around this whole wide world, never find nothing stranger than a Bristol girl.'"

While the narrator of "Scarlet Begonias" has to "learn the hard way" to let the mystery girl pass him by, the real story ended much differently, as Hunter told Blair Jackson in 2004.

“In the song the character flees…But it didn’t end [in real life] the way the song ended; I’m still with her. I have to say, that’s her special song."

Related: 1970 Rock Classic, Inspired by a Drug Bust, Remains a Beloved Road Trip Anthem 56 Years Later

System of a Down, the heavy metal band known for their smash hit “Chop Suey!,” has earned another major feat on Spotify.

The Armenian-American metal band fronted by Serj Tankian scored their fourth song on the Billions Club, the streaming giant’s celebratory milestone for songs that have surpassed 1 billion streams on the platform.

“Aerials” now joins System of a Down’s other Billions Club hits, including their biggest track, “Chop Suey!,” which now has over 2 billion streams, followed by “Toxicity” and “Lonely Day,” which entered the rankings in early 2026.

Marking the special moment, the band posted an Instagram update expressing their deep gratitude to fans who made it possible.

“When you lose small mind, you free your life…Thank you for 1 billion streams of ‘Aerials’ on Spotify,” the caption reads, along with a glimpse of the song’s music video.

Twenty-four years ago, the quartet released “Aerials” as part of their sophomore album.

Thomas Frey/picture alliance via Getty Images

Serving as the third and final single from the multi-platinum album, the track was written by lead guitarist Daron Malakian and Tankian.

Malakian previously revealed that he wrote “Aerials” along with other tracks on Toxicity while living at his parents’ home.

“I wrote all of the Toxicity record while I was still living with my parents,” the musician told Metal Hammer via Ultimate Guitar. “They would hear me playing my guitar in my room, and when Toxicity came out, they would hear Aerials or Chop Suey! on the radio or MTV, and they’d be like, ‘Oh, that’s the one we heard you playing in your room all the time!’ So I think they knew more than me.”

“Aerials” offered a more melodic and atmospheric side of the band, built around its slow, hypnotic rhythm, unlike their more aggressive material.

At the time of its release, System of a Down was all over the airwaves, securing top positions across multiple major charts, including No. 1 on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart for three weeks.

The feat also marked the band’s first-ever No. 1 single.

Adding to this, System of a Down landed No. 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and No. 55 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Related: 1980 Rock Classic by ‘Prince of Darkness’ Ozzy Osbourne Hits 1 Billion Streams 46 Years After Release

Dave Coulier is showing fans he's doing just fine, one reunion photo at a time.

Coulier reunited with the original cast of Full House, John Stamos, Jodie Sweetin, Andrea Barber and Lori Loughlin, to celebrate the show's nearly 40th anniversary at The Nostalgia Con. As per photos shared on social media, the group posed together in front of a packed crowd, all smiles as they marked the milestone.

The Nostalgia Con's own Instagram called the moment "Full House is in full effect," noting that the cast spent the day signing autographs, meeting fans and taking part in a dedicated Full House panel.

Coulier's appearance carries extra weight given what he's been open about in recent months. Seeing him reunite with his longtime castmates, appearing engaged and in good spirits at the event, offers fans a hopeful update following his health journey. The 66-year-old, a two-time cancer survivor, shared a candid health update in a recent Instagram post addressing fans' questions about his changed appearance and voice.

"The last time I did some of you said that I look differently, and I sound differently, and I do," he said. He explained that the changes were side effects of extensive radiation treatment for a throat carcinoma diagnosis, which left him unable to eat solid food for months and resulted in a 45-pound weight loss.

Today reported Coulier was diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma in November 2024. He announced he was cancer-free five months later, before revealing a second diagnosis, p16 squamous carcinoma, in December 2025. He shared he entered remission this past February, during an apperance on Good Morning America.

The Orlando trip brought its own special moment for Sweetin as well. In a separate Instagram post, the 44-year-old actress shared that she arrived at her hotel room to find a chocolate sculpture shaped like film reels, decorated with photos of her and Stamos from their Full House days. "I walked into my room and found this incredible chocolate sculpture with photos of me, @johnstamos, and the cast. What a sweet surprise!" she wrote.

With Full House approaching its 40th anniversary, this reunion marks a rare moment with the full original cast together in one place.

For fans who grew up watching the Tanner family, and for Coulier in particular, the gathering stands as a warm reminder that the bond between the cast remains as strong as ever.

Sean Astin, Elijah Wood, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd are proving that some bonds only get stronger with time.

On Saturday, Aug. 8, Astin shared a photo of himself seated outside La Royal restaurant in Cambridge, Massachusetts, alongside his former Lord of the Rings costars. "The band's all here," the 55-year-old Goonies star wrote in the caption.

This legendary reunion comes 23 years after their final film together.

Hours later, Monaghan, 49, posted a second, goofier selfie from the same night, this one photobombed by a couple seated at the next table.

"Four Halflings. Three cocktails. Two desserts. ONE great night of conversation," Monaghan wrote. "More to come. #becurious shoutout to the couple in the back. Well played."

The four actors starred together in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, based on J.R.R. Tolkien's novels, which followed the hobbits Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin on their journey to destroy the One Ring and stop the Dark Lord Sauron. The franchise debuted in 2001 and wrapped with The Return of the King in 2003, going on to spawn a prequel trilogy, spinoffs and a devoted global fan base.

The comments section filled up fast with fans overjoyed to see the group together again. One fan wrote, "The fact that you 4 still hang out is so goddamn endearing. Now that's a Fellowship!" Another wrote, "Brb cryin in the club."

On Monaghan's photobombed selfie, one fan shared, "Imagine getting to photobomb the Hobbitses in the wild," while another wrote, "I would just collapse on the floor if I was them. LOVE YOU GUYS 🧡"

Back on Astin's post, the emotional responses kept coming. One fan wrote, "I get so much comfort from these group pics ☺️. Very old friends. 🧙‍♂️✨" Another added, "here early just to say you all remind me that there's some good in this world, and it's worth fighting for."

Others simply wished they could've been there. One fan wrote, "Oh how I wish I could share a meal with you guys !! 🥹🖤 hope you had fun and ate well!" Another shared, "Every time one of you posts a pic of the four of you together it makes me so happy!! 🥰🥰"

Wood, who played Frodo, became a household name through the franchise and has since built an eclectic career in films like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Sin City and Maniac.

Astin's Sam launched him further into mainstream success, with credits including 50 First Dates and Stranger Things. Monaghan's turn as Merry led to a major role on Lost and appearances in franchises like X-Men and Star Wars. Boyd, who played Pippin, has stayed close with Monaghan over the years; the two co-star in the food-travel series Billy and Dom Eat the World and co-host The Friendship Onion podcast. Boyd has also appeared in the Chucky franchise and fronts the rock band Beecake.

The reunion comes as excitement builds for the franchise's return to theaters next year with Andy Serkis's The Hunt for Gollum, as reproted by Variety in July. Casting for the new film has not yet been announced, but fans are hopeful some familiar faces might find their way back to Middle-earth.

Scotty McCreery has long been a fan of traditional country music, having auditioned forAmerican Idolwith his powerful rendition of Josh Turner’s 2005 hit, “Your Man,” before winning the Season 10 title. His deep voice has allowed him to effortlessly tackle songs well beyond his years, while doing them justice. 

Such is the case with Conway Twitty’s “Hello Darlin.’”  

RELATED: 1999 Power Ballad, Lasting 53 Weeks on the Charts, Ranked Among ‘Favorite Country Love Songs of All Time’

McCreery recorded a version of the 1970 country classic for his recently released album, 15. The retrospective collection arrived on July 17, 2026, via Triple Tigers Records and celebrates the North Carolina native’s milestone 15-year career as a recording artist. 

“Hello Darlin’” has become a fixture in McCreery’s live shows for many years, so it’s fitting that he would include the track on his new album. Written by Twitty, the iconic tune taps into the emotional feeling of heartbreak with lyrics playing out like a letter to an old flame. 

The singer asks his former lover how she’s doing and whether she’s happy with someone new. Still missing his ex and regretful for having done her wrong, he longs to hold her in his arms once again and asks for her forgiveness. Musically, the song unfolds over a laid-back traditional country melody that puts the singer’s vocals front and center. 

Originally released in March 1970, “Hello Darlin’” served as the first single and title track for Twitty’s album Hello Darlin’. A major hit of its time and a country standard that still resonates with listeners today, “Hello Darlin’” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, where it remained for four weeks. It was also named Billboard’s No. 1 country song of 1970.  

RELATED: 1996 No. 1 Hit, With 14-Year-Old Singer, Became a Motivational Anthem

Twitty’s recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999. Additionally, Twitty’s “Hello Darlin’” has been ranked No. 44 on Billboard’s 2025 list of “100 Best Country Songs of All Time.” 

Along with “Hello Darlin,’” McCreery’s 15 album contains nine of his previously released tracks, including seven No. 1 hits: “Bottle Rockets,” “Five More Minutes,” “This Is It,” “In Between,” “You Time,” “Damn Strait” and “Cab in a Solo.” “It Matters to Her” and “See You Tonight” are also on the project, along with the new track, “Been a Good Run.” McCreery offers two additional covers on the album with a version of  Kris Kristofferson’s “Why Me, Lord?” and a cover of “Your Man” featuring Turner. 

Related: 1968 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among the ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Was Written in 20 Minutes

Roger Craig used one of the biggest moments of his life to share one of the hardest.

During his taped acceptance speech at the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction Saturday, Craig revealed that he has been diagnosed with vascular dementia, ESPN reported on Saturday, August 8.

(Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

Craig, 66, said his doctors believe the condition may be connected, at least in part, to concussions he sustained over his 11-year career as a running back. 

He described the early signs as gradual, changes that were initially written off as normal aging until his family noticed something wasn't right. "Over time, my family noticed it too and ultimately led us to seek answers from my doctor," Craig said, as per the official website.

"Two things can be true. Football gave me opportunities beyond anything I could imagine. It helped shape the man I became. At the same time, we know more today about brain health than when I played, and I hope sharing my story encourages people to pay attention to their health and seek help when something doesn't feel right."

After sharing his diagnosis, Craig turned to what football, and this moment, still meant to him. "Football gave me everything," he said. He then addressed fans directly about how he wants to be seen moving forward.

"I want people to know this diagnosis doesn't define me. I am still Roger Craig," he said. "I am still a father, a husband, a teammate, a friend and someone who loves this game and the people who brought it to my life. If sharing my story helps even one family or one former player, then it's worth it."

Craig waited nearly three decades for this moment. He became the first player in NFL history to record 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in the same season, a milestone that helped define an era of San Francisco 49ers football, as per NBC Sports. 

As per Yahoo sports, Craig didn't attend Thursday's news conference alongside fellow 2026 inductees Larry Fitzgerald, Drew Brees, Adam Vinatieri and Luke Kuechly, each of whom held individual media sessions that day.

Roger Craig receives his Gold Jacket @HaggarCo @49ers pic.twitter.com/JhI5SSakPr

His emotions were on full display throughout the weekend. At Friday's gold jacket dinner, former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo Jr.presented him with his jacket, a moment that visibly overwhelmed him. On Saturday, childhood friend and former teammate Jamie Williams stepped up to present Craig for his enshrinement.

Back in San Francisco, Craig's former team made sure he knew he wasn't being celebrated alone. During Saturday's practice, 49ers coaches wore black T-shirts printed with "Craig" and his number, 33, in white lettering, a quiet tribute to the running back who helped define the franchise's dynasty years, as confirmed by ESPN.

Just as important as the food you choose to make throughout the week is having something to cook it in and store your leftovers in when you’re done. With the right tools at your disposal, the entire process of meal prep to cleanup becomes more seamless, giving you extra time in your day and peace of mind that your meals are taken care of.

This week, Aldi is helping dial in your process with an incoming lineup of food storage essentials: Crofton Ceramic Food Containers. Available in two sizes and designed to help you heat and store your favorite meals, these versatile containers offer a sleek look and premium features that put them a level above the average food storage container.

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Aldi

Available starting Wednesday, Aug. 12, Crofton’s Ceramic Food Containers are the latest addition to the popular in-house Aldi brand’s lineup of food storage essentials. Sold in both square and rectangular shapes to offer two different sizes, each one comes complete with a snap-on silicone lid featuring a see-through window and built-in steam vent.

While supplies last, you’ll have four color options to choose from, with two colors available in each size: Rectangle Green, Rectangle Pink, Square Blue and Square Cream. Designed for everything from leftovers and side dishes to smaller meal-prep portions, school lunches and snacks alike, each container is made from durable ceramic that's built to handle daily use with ease.

Related: Sam's Club's New $20 Cookie Tray Comes Packed With Five Delicious Fall Flavors

Aldi

At the moment, Aldi is being a bit secretive as far as sizes and safe uses are concerned, however we can make some educated guesses based on similar products Aldi's past. While these containers are likely microwave-safe due in part to each lid's integrated steam vent, we would recommend avoiding the oven unless the box tells you otherwise. The same goes for the freezer, as some ceramic dishes are not thermal-shock-resistant and can crack or break when exposed to sudden temperature changes.

Other than that, thanks to the steam-ready lid, these containers are truly a step up from your standard food container, turning a simple microwave meal into something a little more gourmet while bringing added convenience to your meal-prep routine.

Keep your eyes peeled when they arrive on Aug. 12 so you can snag both sizes in one of the four available colors. And if you need a little more encouragement to head out this week, check out Aldi’s 2-Tier Under the Sink Organizer and Five Below’s 3-Tier Metal Rolling Cart.

Related: T.J. Maxx's $10 Stoneware Kitchen Staple Adds a Touch of Elegance to the Dinner Table

The Carradine family spans far and wide in showbiz, and one of its Academy Award-winning members just turned 77.

Keith Carradine won Oscar gold 50 years ago for his musical contribution to the hit film Nashville, but his talents didn't stop there. He has kept busy in Hollywood ever since, including memorable work on the small screen with standout roles in HBO's Deadwood and Showtime's Dexter.

Saturday, August 8 marks Keith's 77th birthday, coming during a busy year for the veteran performer and musician. His streaming series Imperfect Women recently dropped on Apple TV, where Keith can be spotted in four episodes. Plus, he starred in an episode of ABC's hit show High Potential earlier in 2026.

Indeed, the last name "Carradine" should sound familiar — even if you're not a hardcore movie buff. The late, great David Carradine — Keith's paternal half-brother — portrayed the titular "Bill" in Quentin Tarantino's acclaimed Kill Bill films.

On a sadder note, Keith's brotherRobert Carradinedied by suicide earlier this year, an actor who's remembered for his lead role in the Revenge of the Nerdsmovies — and as the dad from Disney Channel's Lizzie McGuire series.

Fifty years ago this year, Keith was one of many big names featured in Robert Altman's timeless film Nashville. According to reports about the production, all the actors were told to write and sing their own tracks for their characters.

In Nashville, Keith plays Tom Frank, a guitarist in a folk-rock trio hoping to go solo. He sings the track during an open mic, with the tender ballad being dedicated to someone in the audience — and all the women in attendance thinking it’s them. In reality, Tom is a womanizer and abuser who was dedicating the song to his next conquest.

Fans can say that Keith's “I’m Easy” was not only perfectly suited to his on-screen character, but also to the actor’s true intentions for the track, as he was trying to impress a former co-star. Find out more here.

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle references several things, including river horses, popular phrases, and antiseptic dental care.

Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can’t forget about the NYT’s The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Sunday, August 9, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

1 Across: Flatten, informally — HINT: Ends with the letter "H"

6 Across: African mammal that can weigh up to 10,000 pounds —HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

7 Across: "___ next time!" — HINT: Ends with the letter "L"

8 Across: Add fuel to, as a fire — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

9 Across: Really talked (up) — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

1 Down: "Quiet!" — HINT: Ends with the letter "H"

2 Down: Like many green mouthwashes — HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"

3 Down: Request that precedes "down low ... too slow!" — HINT: Starts with the letter "U"

4 Down: Powerful volleyball hit — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

5 Down: Sank, as a putt — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

1 Across: Flatten, informally — SMUSH

6 Across: African mammal that can weigh up to 10,000 pounds —HIPPO

7 Across: "___ next time!" — UNTIL

8 Across: Add fuel to, as a fire — STOKE

9 Across: Really talked (up) — HYPED

1 Down: "Quiet!" — SHUSH

2 Down: Like many green mouthwashes — MINTY

3 Down: Request that precedes "down low ... too slow!" — UPTOP

4 Down: Powerful volleyball hit — SPIKE

5 Down: Sank, as a putt — HOLED

Related: Check Your Cabinets: These '90s Fast-Food Glasses Are Now Worth Hundreds

Aerosmith, one of America’s greatest rock and roll bands, made a successful comeback after the release of its 1987 album Permanent Vacation.

For decades, the band had delivered high-octane performances and hard-rocking songs that captivated audiences with their timeless appeal.

Consisting of the original lineup of Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Joey Kramer and Brad Whitford, the band delivered a remarkable album that kicked off its second golden age.

Nearly four decades after the record’s debut, Permanent Vacation remains one of the most celebrated albums in Aerosmith’s music legacy.

Of the band’s 15 studio albums, it ranked No. 6 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 10 Best Aerosmith Albums, according to the publication’s poll.

Ross Marino/Getty Images

On top of that, Permanent Vacation has retained its timeless charm, with Reddit users continuing to praise the album and its standout tracks.

With some describing it as Aerosmith’s “best work,” others praised the album for being a comeback that made a lasting impression.

“Them coming back with this record was a dream come true for me when it came out,” a commenter said.

“Not only is it an amazing album on its own, but as you said, ‘Girl Keeps Coming Apart’ should get more love. To me, my favorite is Permanent Vacation, with the island-vibe outro and Stephen’s always great harmonica. Phenomenal album!!!” another added.

A Reddit user also mentioned how Aerosmith successfully bounced back from a slump.

“Permanent Vacation is not Toys in the Attic, Rocks, or Pump, but it´s an enjoyable and consistent record from a band getting their shit together behind the scenes. A good 8.5/10,” one wrote.

“All in all, it's a good album and has their highest charting hit up to that point (Angel), and was part of their resurgence into pop culture,” a commenter echoed.

True enough, the ninth studio album marked a pivotal moment for the band and helped revive its music career.

After years of lineup turmoil and substance-abuse struggles, the band released its commercially disappointing eighth studio album, Done with Mirrors, which also marked the reunion of its original lineup. Permanent Vacation then became the band’s sober comeback.

Hamilton once shared that they made major changes to their creative process and worked alongside hit-making songwriters such as Desmond Child and Jim Vallance.

"We really felt that we had to tear down our creative process, examine it and rebuild it," the bassist said in Aerosmith: The Ultimate Illustrated History of Boston's Bad Boys, as reported by Ultimate Classic Rock, adding, "That involved collaborating with people outside of the band and that was a big success for us. All these songs were true collaborations. It wasn’t like ‘Joe Blow’ comes in and teaches Aerosmith their song and we play it how they say it."

As for Whitford, he spoke about how the album resulted from the band overcoming their personal struggles and regaining their passion for music.

"We crawled out from under our problems and got in touch with ourselves," the lead guitarist shared. "It was a wonderful experience because, after all that abuse, you go dead inside. You go dead musically, too."

Permanent Vacation not only dominated the MTV era thanks to its standout tracks like "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)," "Angel" and "Rag Doll," but also sold over five million albums in the U.S. alone, earning a five-times platinum certification by the RIAA.

Related: 1995 Rock Song, Written by Iconic Supergroup Mad Season, Is Still a Generational Hit 31 Years Later

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If you're already planning summer gatherings and need an easy way to brighten up your backyard, Walmart has a practical solution that won't break the bank. The retailer's bestselling Daybetter Solar Light 6-Pack will instantly add some ambient lighting to your patio, garden, or deck, and the top-rated set is on sale right now.  

For a limited time, the popular six-pack is available for just $35, down from $56. You can shop it in both white and warm white hues, and it also comes in smaller two- and four-pack sets at varying prices. 

Courtesy of Walmart

No matter which color you opt for, these solar lights will help illuminate your space for all your outdoor gatherings, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere wherever you place them. They have a simple, sleek design that's versatile enough to use in a variety of spots, including patios, gardens, garages, driveways, stairs, and more. Each light measures 12.5 inches tall, but shoppers noted that the quality is excellent despite the "compact size."

They have three different lighting modes — low, medium, and high — and a built-in sensor that automatically turns on at sunset and off at sunrise, allowing for hassle-free operation. 

With an IP65 waterproof rating, the Daybetter solar lights are built to withstand all types of weather conditions, including snow, heat, and cold. Each spotlight features 64 ultra-bright LED lights, which can illuminate distances up to 10 meters. The set also comes with a wall plug, knob cap, and ground rod, so you can choose how you want to install it; insert it into the ground to brighten up the outdoor landscape or fix it to a wall or fence to use as a wall lamp.

"I like the versatility of the light, as it can be stuck into the ground with the provided spike or mounted to the wall with the bracket, which is integrated onto the light," one shopper wrote.

These solar lights are a Walmart bestseller for good reason, earning over 800 five-star ratings from shoppers. One reviewer said they're "very bright" and "stay lit all night long," while another said the set "looks so elegant" in their yard. A third buyer highlighted their quality, adding that they're the "perfect upgrade" for gardens and patios.  

Related: Walmart's Waterproof Platform Sandals Are 'Super Cute,' 'Comfortable,' and Available in 5 Colors

This deal won't last long, so if you've been considering snagging some solar lights for your outdoor space, now's your chance to score a great deal. Grab this highly rated six-pack while it's still on sale for $35 at Walmart.  

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After being spotted by talent scout Roger Bell at The Townsman Club, Welsh singerBonnie Tyler took him up on his invitation to go to London and begin recording some demo tracks. Two of which were the songs "My! My! Honeycomb" and "Lost in France." Tyler spent months waiting after the fact and was ultimately offered a recording contract with RCA Records and was told they'd be releasing "My! My! Honeycomb" as a single. The song failed to chart and only received limited airplay in Tyler's native Wales.

Because of this, the record label decided to put significantly more promo behind the next single, "Lost in France." They flew Tyler out to a chateau in France to meet with journalists leading up to the song's release.

"Lost in France" was released to the public in September of 1976 ahead of Tyler's 1977 debut album, The World Starts Tonight.

At the end of October in 1976, "Lost in France" officially entered the UK Singles chart. Two weeks later, the song climbed its way into the Top 40 at number 22. "Lost in France" continued to climb the charts, and in late November it peaked at number nine, breaking the top 10 for the first time for Tyler. The song held that position for two weeks and spent a total of 10 weeks on the UK Singles Chart.

Shortly after the release of "Lost in France," Tyler underwent surgery to remove nodules on her vocal cords. Singers who undergo this type of procedure are supposed to adhere to a strict vocal rest period after the fact, which typically lasts a minimum of six weeks. Tyler failed to do so against her doctor's advisement and was left with a permanent, raspy sound to her voice.

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Related: 1971 Soft-Rock Cover, the Artist’s Only No. 1 Hit, Became a Power Breakup Anthem

If you love cooking, chances are there's a copy of Kitchen Confidential tucked in your bookshelf somewhere.

Anthony Bourdain rose to fame following the publication of his renowned book, all the while breaking into the New York culinary world and ultimately taking TV by storm and hosting his own beloved shows.

It's hard to believe eight years have passed since the celebrity chef died by suicide at age 61. The world continues to honor his legacy, of course, with Tony just hitting theaters as the latest example.

The A24 biopic starring Dominic Sessa (The Holdovers) as young Bourdain has been met with rave reviews, currently sitting at an impressive 95% average critics' rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Here's the brief synopsis offered by the website: "Nineteen-year-old Anthony Bourdain stumbles into the chaotic world of a restaurant kitchen, setting off a summer that shapes the course of his life."

Appearing alongside Sessa, 23, in Tony is fellow rising star Leo Woodall (The White Lotus, One Day), who plays a worker at the Cape Cod restaurant where the story is set. In a recent interview with Variety, Sessa opened about how co-writer/director Matt Johnson wrote Woodall's character specifically to foreshadow Bourdain's real-life struggles with drug addiction and mental health later in life.

"There are moments, of course, especially coming from Leo’s character where we see these hints of what we know is gonna come later in his life... Leo’s character was really intentional in that way, everything about him from being covered in tattoos," Sessa told the magazine in an article published Saturday, August 8. "Matt and I were really specific about all this stuff. The first time that I smoke a cigarette in the movie is because Leo gives me one. That becomes something that’s so iconically Bourdain."

Sessa continues, "Bourdain was open about his struggles with using heroin in his life, and Leo is the one that introduces him to the heroin dealer in Provincetown. He’s so much that chaotic side of him."

When Fanny released "Charity Ball" in the fall of 1971, the pioneering rock band was breaking barriers with every performance.

The song featured Jean Millington, who was just 22 years old when the single arrived on Sept. 18, 1971. Serving as the band's bassist, co-songwriter, and one of its lead vocalists, Millington helped turn "Charity Ball" into Fanny's biggest commercial success. More than five decades later, the track continues to earn recognition, including a place on Time Out's list of the best classic rock songs of all time.

"Charity Ball" captured everything that made Fanny unique.

Written by sisters Jean and June Millington, the song blended crunchy guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and an irresistible chorus into a high-energy rocker that showcased the band's musicianship. Jean's confident lead vocal anchored the performance, helping establish Fanny as one of the most exciting rock acts of the early 1970s.

"The live version really showed off our playing as well, the ability as a rock and roll band," Jean Millington said in an interview years later. "Actually, when we listened it last year, June and I were both stunned at how good it was. Because that takes a hell of a lot of rehearsal to get those kinds of blues changes and everything there, everyone's real tight and knows exactly what's going on, and can still spontaneously jam on stuff and then everyone instinctively knows when we crescendo and it's time to go back into the voice or like that. So we were both pretty impressed with ourselves actually."

The single also marked a major breakthrough.

Released as the title track from the band's third studio album, "Charity Ball" climbed to No. 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Fanny's highest-charting single. At a time when all-female rock bands rarely received the same opportunities as their male counterparts, the song proved that Fanny could compete on equal footing with many of rock's biggest names.

Its influence has only become more apparent over time.

Although the band never achieved the commercial recognition many believed it deserved, musicians ranging from David Bowie to Bonnie Raitt have praised Fanny's talent and importance. In recent years, the group's contributions have been reexamined by critics and historians, with "Charity Ball" frequently singled out as the recording that best demonstrates its groundbreaking blend of hard rock, melody, and technical skill.

That renewed appreciation is reflected in the song's latest honor.

Time Out included "Charity Ball" among its selections for the best classic rock songs of all time, recognizing the track as an essential part of the genre's history. The accolade underscores how the song's influence has endured well beyond its original chart run.

"Women are much more visible than they used to be, that's for sure," June Millington told Pan M 360. "They are free to create whatever they want, in many different styles. It's not unusual for a group of women to get visibility. It’s not unusual for a women's band to be visible. But a women's band having a string of successes as big as those of men's bands like the Stones, the Beatles, Led Zeppelin and so many others, that still hasn't happened as far as I know, and that's what I'm waiting for."

Fifty-five years after its release, "Charity Ball" continues to inspire listeners with its infectious energy and fearless spirit. Featuring a 22-year-old Jean Millington of Fanny, the 1971 rocker has evolved from a breakthrough hit into one of the most celebrated classic rock songs of its generation.

Related: 1997 Iconic Ballad, With 14-Year-Old Singer LeAnn Rimes, Ranked Among Greatest Songs of All Time

Famed guitarist Eric Clapton was a member of the short-lived band Derek and the Dominos, which lasted a year until 1971. The group released their arguably most famous tune, "Layla," off the record Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, in 1970.

Uncut magazine reported that "Layla" wasn't a popular song until two years later. The track secured the number 10 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 during the summer of 1972.

While speaking to Uncut in 2006, Clapton noted that "Layla" depicted how he felt about his eventual wife, Pattie Boyd, whom he divorced in 1989 after 10 years of marriage. He referenced that Boyd was married to fellow musician George Harrison, who died in 2001 at the age of 58, when he penned "Layla."

"There seem to have been a series of crossroads in my life and ‘Layla’ came at one of them. I was standing there wondering which way to go and was paralysed with fear about making a decision," said Clapton, now 81, while speaking to Uncut. "It seemed there were all these choices, musically and emotionally. I was getting involved with this woman who was already married to my best friend, I had a new band and drugs were waiting in the wings. I was terrified by the decisions I was facing and I guess the drugs helped to anaesthetise me."

He also explained that he had befriended the former Beatle, who wed Boyd in 1966, following a performance together. He went on to say "the relationship that developed devastated all three of [them]."

"But that was the spirit of the times. It didn’t even seem anything unusual. It was like one of those ’60s wife-swapping movies, like Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice. It got quite difficult at times, inevitably. But I think George and me always cared for one another in quite a profound way and, amazingly, everybody remained friends," continued Clapton during the interview.

Clapton also told the publication that while Derek and the Dominos's time as a group was brief, he is "very proud of the one album [they] made and that song."

"You never really get used to having ownership of something that powerful and it still knocks me out every time I play it," said Clapton in the 2006 interview.

In a 2013 interview on The Ronnie Wood Show, hosted by Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones, Boyd theorized how Clapton came up with "Layla." According to Boyd, she and Clapton had been given a copy of the 12th-century story, Layla and Majnun.

"It's a love story and it's basically about unrequited love. And Eric loved it. And at that time, he really wanted me to come away with him. Although I was most insistent that I was still in love with George, so it was really difficult. And anyway, he wrote that song," said the model during the interview.

She also said that she felt like she "was being pushed into leaving George and being with him" when she first heard "Layla."

"I wasn't sure how I felt about it. But it's a beautiful song," said Boyd in the 2012 interview.

While speaking to UnCut about the song in 2006, Boyd said she didn't hear "Layla" until after it was recorded.

"I remember when he came back from America, he played it to me before it was released. He put it on several times and the intensity was amazing. He’s such an incredible musician that he’s always been able to put his emotions into music in a way that goes right through you," said Boyd to UnCut. "Of course, it was particularly fascinating for me to hear the song in the circumstances we were in. You can imagine the effect it had on me. I was bowled over not just by the words but the whole song."

She clarified that she was "deeply flattered and honoured to be the subject of a song like that."

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Whether you’re tackling summer cleaning or finally organizing your favorite books and decor, a good bookshelf can completely transform your space. It’s one of the easiest ways to clear clutter while also creating a spot to show off items you actually enjoy looking at. With the right design, a bookshelf doesn’t just store your things, it adds personality to the room.

That’s why choosing something a little more unique can make such a difference. Instead of going with a basic, boxy option, a more creative design can double as decor. One standout option is the Costway 5-Tier Geometric Bookshelf. Right now, it’s on sale for 48% off at Target, bringing the price down from $126 to just $65. 

Courtesy of Target

The design is what really sets it apart. Instead of a traditional grid layout, it features an asymmetrical, S-shaped structure that feels modern and sculptural. It almost looks like a piece of art, which makes it a great focal point in any room. It comes in three colors — black, brown, and white — to match your space.

You can purchase it in a pack of one or two if you’re looking for a more symmetrical setup. Placing two side by side can also create a simple DIY room divider, which is especially useful in open layouts or studio apartments.

In terms of size, it measures 27.5 inches long, 9.5 inches wide, and 62.5 inches tall. Each shelf offers about 20 inches of length and 12 inches of height, giving you enough room for books, decor, and more. It has a 45-pound weight capacity, which is solid for everyday storage needs.

It’s also built with durability in mind. It has a metal frame, and the shelves are made from sturdy particle board with thick edge sealing to help extend the lifespan. A stable base and non-slip foot pads add extra support while also protecting your floors from scratches.

For added safety, it comes with two anti-toppling kits that let you secure the bookshelf to the wall. This helps prevent wobbling or tipping, which is especially important if you have kids or pets around. Assembly is straightforward as well, with clearly labeled parts and instructions that make the process easier.

The five-tier layout gives you plenty of space to get creative. You can use it to display books, framed photos, plants, or collectibles. The vertical design also helps maximize space, making it a smart choice for smaller rooms or apartments where every inch counts.

Shoppers highlighted both the look and functionality in reviews. One reviewer shared, “I wanted something fun and funky design-wise for my collectibles and I got it! It’s sturdy, great looking, and I’m thrilled!” Another described it as “fantastic” and “so easy to assemble” in a five-star review, adding, “The shelves are strong but lightweight. The finish is very well done.”

Related: Target's 'Charming Little Desk' Is the Cutest Back-to-School Upgrade

If you’re looking for a bookshelf that’s both practical and visually interesting, the Costway 5-Tier Geometric Bookshelf is a great pick. It offers plenty of storage while doubling as a statement piece. With Target’s current 48% discount, you can save over $50, making it an easy upgrade for your space without overspending. 

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George Clooney had a rather unexpected guest arrive at his famous Lake Como villa. Now the internet is trying to figure out the connection.

Emma Watson was photographed (shared by @deuxmoi on Instagram) arriving at George and Amal Clooney's Italian home on Saturday, August 8. In the photos, the Harry Potter alum wore a light-colored floral dress with dramatic puff sleeves as she made her way toward the property, running her fingers through her hair and carrying a brown bag.

The sighting quickly caught fans' attention, largely because Watson and the Clooneys aren't exactly a celebrity friendship people would expect. 

“My theory is that the Clooney’s have paid her to babysit and tutor their kids as Hermione Granger,” one person on Reddit joked.

“Are they making a movie together maybe?” someone on Instagram suggested.

Another pointed out, “I wonder if she is friends with his wife? They both do a lot of advocacy and outreach.”

“I remember learning somewhere that celebs pretty frequently lend out their vacation homes to each other. Could be that?” one replied.

The theory about Watson, 36, and Amal, 48, meeting is definitely plausible. Watson has spent years advocating for gender equality and women's rights, while Amal is an international human rights lawyer whose work has involved high-profile cases around the world. But there's no confirmation that their advocacy had anything to do with the visit.

In late July, George, 65, and Amal were forced to evacuate their home in Brignoles, southeastern France, with their 9-year-old twins, Alexander and Ella, as wildfires swept through the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

READ MORE: George Clooney and Wife Amal Face Devastating Uncertainty as They’re Forced to Flee Home

At the time, the couple didn't know whether their property would survive the fires. In a letter to Brignoles Mayor Didier Brémond, George emphasized that regardless of what happened to their home, he and Amal remained committed to helping their community recover. "We love Brignoles and our friends who live there," the couple wrote. At this time, it’s unclear if the fire ended up reaching their home.

A shocking crime that unfolded 57 years ago tonight forever changed how Hollywood remembered the summer of 1969.

Just after midnight on Aug. 9, members of the Manson Family arrived at a secluded home in Los Angeles’ Benedict Canyon and murdered actress Sharon Tate and four others.

Tate, who was eight months pregnant, was also just 26 years old.

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The two-night killing spree shattered Hollywood’s era of carefree counterculture, becoming one of the most infamous chapters in La La Land's history and forever intertwining the era’s bohemian optimism with evil darkness.

Five decades later, that horrifying chapter inspired Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, with a few twists and turns, of course. Rather than recount the murders as they happened, Tarantino used the real-life events as a backdrop for an alternate-history cinematic fairy tale starringLeonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie.

By contrasting the fictional struggles of a fading TV star named Rick Dalton and his stunt double, Cliff Booth, with the very real tragedies of the innocent people who were killed that summer, Tarantino was able to give that horrific chapter a cathartic alternate ending.

Naturally, music was involved.

Like all of Tarantino’s films, needle drops played a massive role in his storytelling.

“I’m almost as proud of my discography as I am of my filmography,” Tarantino told Variety about his soundtrack, which itself is a love letter to his favorite sounds of theSixties.

Filling the film with late-’60s rock from Deep Purple, The Bob Seger System, Paul Revere & The Raiders, and more, Tarantino fueled his climax with Vanilla Fudge’s psychedelic hit, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.”

Related: 1967 Blistering Heartbreak Anthem That Became a Massive Hit Ultimately Destroyed the Band

It was a masterful move.

Vanilla Fudge’s cover of The Supremes’ Motown classic, 'You Keep Me Hangin’ On,' was slowed down and transformed into something heavier, darker, and almost hypnotic. That made it the perfect track for the over-the-top violence in Tarantino’s revisionist vision of 1969.

GQ seemingly agreed, because the outlet ranked the shock-and-rock pairing as the greatest needle drop of all time.

Beware: Spoilers for the film’s killer climax are ahead.

“Augmenting the cartoonish—and righteously ultraviolent—action [is] “You Keep Me Hangin' On” by Vanilla Fudge, which builds to its emphatic guitar-laden crescendo as Booth and his trusty pitbull Brandy punch, chomp, and head-smash their way through the would-be murderous cultists,” GQ wrote. “And it wouldn't go half as hard without Mark Stein's soaring vocals, that shrieking keyboard, and Carmine Appice's unrelenting drums.”

The thunderous 1967cover became a Top 10 hit in the U.S., reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also helped establish Vanilla Fudge as early heavy-rock innovators whose sound would influence bands including Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. That dramatic quality made the track perfect for Tarantino’s film.

According to Rolling Stone, Tarantino and his music supervisor, Mary Ramos, chose the Vanilla Fudge hit for its unique, slow-building musical arc, which mirrors the pivotal scene it soundtracks.

“The song has an amazing arc and shape to it,” Ramos told Rolling Stone. “They used to slow down the songs and creep them out, and this arrangement is really unusual and special. It delves into metal and psychedelia. It’s pretty over the top.”

That over-the-top quality is what makes the needle drop work. The song begins with the familiar sounds of a Motown classic, then turns menacing as Tarantino’s Hollywood fairy tale descends into a bloody revenge fantasy.

Now, nearly six decades after Vanilla Fudge reinvented a Supremes classic, Tarantino found a way to transform the song again, turning it into the sound of a redemption tale for one of Hollywood's darkest nights.

Related: 1968 Movie, Behind One of TV’s Most Beloved Theme Songs, Was a No. 1 Hit 58 Years Ago

Songs in the '70s rock genre have a way of sticking around for generations. Some are even so beloved that they consistently rank among the top picks from the golden era of rock.

In November 2025, Planet Rock ranked the top 20 greatest rock songs, compiling a list of some of the best works ever created in the genre's history. Ranked alongside iconic hits like Metallica's 1991 single "Enter Sandman" at No. 14 and Black Sabbath's 1970 song "Paranoid" at No. 12, Deep Purple secured the No. 13 spot with their classic "Smoke on the Water."

Originally, "Smoke on the Water" was released in March 1972 as a track from their sixth studio album, Machine Head. Following a major boost in popularity due to radio stations heavily spinning it, "Smoke on the Water" was issued as the fourth single from the album a year later in May 1973. From there, the track jumped onto the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 4 in July.

Fin Costello/Redferns/Getty Images

Aside from its chart success, the track's massive listener demand helped to earn it a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in August 1973 after selling over 500,000 copies in the U.S. The song's undeniable triumph solidified it as the band's most recognizable track, and it is often considered the definitive anthem of their discography.

Despite serving as a major '70s rock staple, it only took Deep Purple about 15 minutes to pen "Smoke on the Water." According to bassist and songwriter Roger Glover, the piece came together in a hotel bar near the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1971. While watching Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention's set at the Montreux Casino, someone shot a flare gun into the ceiling, causing the building to go ablaze and inspiring the concept for the song.

"Sparks came down and everyone had to get out. I became separated from the band so went back inside to find them," Glover reflected. "The place was empty, but just as I came out something exploded and whoosh—the whole building went up in flames. We sat in the bar of our hotel a couple of blocks away and watched the plume of black smoke as the beautiful old casino was reduced to charred wood. A couple of mornings later I was aware that I’d said the phrase 'smoke on the water' loudly into the room as I woke up."

Over fifty-four years after its creation, "Smoke on the Water" remains a legendary staple of classic rock. The track continues to persevere today in the digital era on streaming platforms, raking in over 690 million streams on Spotify alone.

Related: 1974 Rock Song, Lasting Over 7 Minutes, Is Still a Motivational Hit 52 Years Later