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1999 Debut Hit Earned a '90s Pop Icon Her First No. 1
In 1999, a debut single would become a career-defining hit that was the making of a global superstar.
Christina Aguilera released "Genie In a Bottle" on May 11, 1999, marking her first-ever single and the start of an award-winning music career that has spanned almost three decades. The track soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for five weeks. In addition to becoming a chart-topper in the United States, "Genie In a Bottle" became a No. 1 hit in over 20 countries.
The song was part of Aguilera's self-titled debut album, which also hit the top spot on the charts. Reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the record sold 253,000 in its first week and spawned three chart-topping songs, per Billboard. Along with "Genie In a Bottle," megahits "What a Girl Wants" and "Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)" also rose to first position on the U.S. charts.
These hits helped to earn the singer her first Grammy Award, winning "Best New Artist" in 2000 at age 19.
In 2024, Aguilera reflected on her debut single in honor of its 25th anniversary.
"I think the biggest word that sums up that first record for me is grateful," she told Glamour. "Being thankful because it got my foot in the door. After 25 years, I'm so proud of it. I think to sustain anything for a lengthy amount of time takes a lot of work and dedication and passion. There are many elements that go into being able to build something."
Aguilera said that she still has "a lot of fun" playing the hit live, which is a staple in the singer's concert setlists.
"I interpret it differently, depending on which show or which tour or which genre we're going for, what audience I'm playing for, what country," she explained. "It's really fun to be able to creatively do different things with those songs from the first album."
Over the course of her career, Aguilera has won five Grammy Awards, earned five U.S. No. 1 singles, and has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Related: '90s Pop Legend, With the Most U.K. No. 1 Albums, Announces Huge Tour News
1989 Rock Song, Released by One of the ‘Greatest Supergroups’ of All Time, Became a No. 1 Hit
In 1989, Bad English cemented its status in rock music after topping the charts with its hit "When I See You Smile."
Recognized byLouder Sound as one of the greatest rock supergroups of all time, the five-piece band featuring members of Journey and The Babys scored its first and only No. 1 hit after releasing its self-titled album.
After their debut single, "Forget Me Not," reached No. 45 on the Billboard Hot 100, lead singer John Waite, keyboardist Jonathan Cain, bassist Ricky Phillips, guitarist Neal Schon and drummer Deen Castronovo kept the momentum going by releasing their second single, "When I See You Smile."
Of the album's 13 tracks, 11 were written by the band, but the soft rock power ballad was not one of them.
Bad English in 1990 in Chicago, Il.Written by the iconic songwriter Diane Warren as a tribute to her father, who always supported her career, the song was initially underestimated by its own writer.
Warren only recognized its potential after music publishers and industry contacts responded enthusiastically, according toSongfacts.
The band also had reservations, believing it wasn't the right fit for them.
However, they ultimately agreed to include it on the album out of respect for A&R executive Don Grierson, who suggested the song be included.
"When I See You Smile' that was not what we should have been doing in Bad English," Waite told Classic Rock Revisited. "We kind of owed the A&R guys a favor. I thought we would just cut it and tell them we at least tried and then they would let us go our own way. When we recorded it, then it really did sound like a No. 1. It went to No. 1 everywhere – and I have to ask, what is wrong with being No. 1? At the same time, it was the wrong song for the band to rest its career on."
Lo and behold, "When I See You Smile" became Bad English's only No. 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song spent two weeks at No. 1 and remained on the Billboard Hot 100 for a total of 22 weeks.
Now regarded as Bad English's signature song, "When I See You Smile" has stood the test of time as the band's defining hit.
Related: '80s Rock Band, With No. 1 Hit Song, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time
Acclaimed Horror Author Reacts to His Book Being Banned in Utah
Stephen King is no stranger to having his books banned in schools; the legendary horror author holds the most titles that have been removed from schools in various states nationwide, according to PEN America.
Related: Stephen King Fans React to New Footage of His Debut Novel's 'Surprising' TV Adaptation
This time in Utah, it's his Different Seasons collection of short stories that's now on the banned-from-public-schools list, and King sent a statement to The Salt Lake Tribune about the matter. In it, he wrote, “The thing is this: I get letters from teenagers all the time that say things like, ‘I wasn’t a reader until I picked this book up.’ It’s true of The Stand and Pet Sematary, but even more true of Different Seasons.” He said of his 1982 published work that covers four novellas, three of which have been adapted into beloved feature films.
King pointed out, “Most of them have seen The Shawshank Redemption, and teens like a story about an innocent man escaping jail. The Body, made into the movie Stand By Me, is even more relatable to teens,” he said about how his books have played a role in being formative literature for generations. “All I’m saying is that if the book is in high school libraries, some bored teenager might pick it up and find out how good stories can be.”
While the book is reported by TheSalt Lake Tribune to be only banned from schools, these lists have been increasingly attempting to censor more and more; however, King is unfazed: “First and foremost, the book wasn’t banned. I assume it’s still in bookstores and many public libraries, because free expression is part of the American ethic.” and closed his statement with a warning about the times we live in, "Ordinarily I say ‘Go to a library or bookstore and find out what the suits don’t want you to read,’ but this case is a little different.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger Challenges Fans to 'Pump It Up' With Him
Arnold Schwarzenegger isn't just sitting around telling his fans what to do, but showing them. In an Instagram video in which he's seen using the bent-arm chest fly machine at Gold's Gym, he tells his followers how they can "pump it up" with him—for free.
"Just remember, let's pump it up," Schwarzenegger tells the camera. "Let's train, train, and train, and I will give my app away. You keep pumping, and you get all the money back."
"So pump, pump, pump," he added. "Join the Pump Club."
View this post on Instagram How the Money-Back Offer Actually WorksSo what's the catch? Well, for one, you do have to pay something up front, as the Pump Club app isn't free. However, the Terminator star, who turned 79 on July 30, is offering a pretty sweet deal for those who have the motivation and time to follow through.
"Going forward, everyone will earn $50 back for completing their first program of the year and $50 their fourth program - a $100 discount - just for training," he writes in the caption. If that's not motivation enough, there's also $50 in savings just for joining between July 30 and August 9.
"This week, for my birthday, the app is only $100," he writes. "That’s right. Train all year, complete four programs, get all your money back."
Arnold's Pump Club began as a newsletter before it evolved into a podcast and then an app. While he's far from the only celebrity with a fitness app, his legendary passion for staying in shape, along with a proven record as a professional bodybuilder, gives him much more credibility than some others. Not to mention the fact that his app is 100% funded by Schwarzenegger himself.
'A Crusade, Not Just a Business': Arnold's Bigger Mission"This is a crusade, not just a business," he wrote in a July 30 post. "I’ve been trying to get people to train for six decades, and I finally found something that works. If I can make millions of you train all year, I’ll take the loss."
Pump Club's birthday deal is Schwarzenegger's latest push to get people off the couch and into a routine that sticks. Whether or not you take him up on the offer, the message is one he's serious about: stop talking about training and start doing it.
Lindsay Clancy Breaks Down in Court as ER Doctor Details Efforts to Save 8-Month-Old Son Callan
Please Note: This article contains details about the deaths of children that some readers may find distressing.
Duxbury mother Lindsay Clancy, 35, who is on trial for the murders of her three children, Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and Callan, 8 months, showed visible emotion in court Friday as a doctor testified about trying to save the eight-month-old on the day he and his two siblings died. It was the second time Clancy had shown emotion during the trial, after she also appeared to react during the first day of testimony, when the 911 call from the night of the killings was played for the jury.
On the fourth day of Clancy's murder trial in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Dr. Benjamin Kaufman described treating Callan in the emergency department at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth on Jan. 24, 2023.
Doctor Testifies About Life-Saving Efforts Made to Save 8-Month-Old Callan ClancyKaufman testified that Callan wasn't breathing when he arrived at the hospital. He and the medical team gave him epinephrine, performed chest compressions, and used a manual resuscitator to try to revive him, as per the video shared by CBS Boston. About 10 minutes later, Callan's heartbeat returned, but Kaufman said the infant never showed signs of brain function and never breathed on his own for the rest of his care. He was later flown to Boston Children's Hospital for a higher level of pediatric treatment.
According to a CourtTV livestream of the proceedings, Clancy appeared to cry as Kaufman testified, lowering her head and covering her face as her shoulders shook.
Jurors Visit the Duxbury Home Earlier in the Day Visitors stop by a makeshift memorial outside 47 Summer Street.(Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
Before Friday's testimony, jurors visited the Clancy family's former Duxbury home, retracing the stops her husband, Patrick, made that night, including a CVS pharmacy and an Italian restaurant where he picked up food at Lindsay's request.
The roughly 40-minute visit, conducted in small groups, also included the yard where Patrick found Lindsay after she jumped from a second-story window, a fall that left her paralyzed.
The Case Against Lindsay ClancyClancy does not dispute that she killed her three children. Her defense argues she was overmedicated and in the grip of postpartum psychosis at the time, and that she believed a voice was telling her to harm the children before taking her own life. Prosecutors argue she acted with intent, using the errands as a way to get Patrick out of the house so she could carry out the killings.
Patrick, who testified earlier in the trial, has said he's forgiven his ex-wife. If convicted, Clancy faces life in prison without parole. If she's found not criminally responsible, she would be committed to a state mental health facility.
The trial is expected to last several weeks.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can also chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here.
Dairy Queen's New Blizzard Featuring a 'Superior Fall Flavor' Leaves Fans Declaring 'Immediately Yes'
Dairy Queen's August Blizzard of the Month is on its way—and fans declared "immediately yes" after a report revealed the fall flavor.
On Thursday, July 30, food blogger SnackWire reported via Instagram that a Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard will soon hit DQ menus.
"The Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard is rumored to be Dairy Queen’s August Blizzard of the Month," they wrote. "It should be available in early August, and some locations have already started putting up promotional signage."
Additionally, SnackWire suggested that customers request a "custom item" they labeled a Caramel Apple Cheesecake Parfait, which appeared to be the Blizzard with the mix-ins on the top. They noted that not all stores participate and that Dairy Queen has not officially confirmed its August Blizzard of the Month.
A release date for the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard has not been announced. Parade has reached out to Dairy Queen for confirmation.
View this post on InstagramIn the comments, ice cream lovers shared their reactions to DQ's reported Blizzard of the Month for August. One Instagram user rejoiced, writing, "Finally, apples and not more pumpkin!!"
"The way I’d dip apple slices in that omg," another shared, as a third declared, "Immediately yes."
Someone else pointed out, "That Caramel Apple Cheesecake parfait looks (and probably tastes) like a SIN... 🤤🤤🤤."
A different follower commented, "I need this in my life."
Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user proclaimed, "Caramel apple is the superior fall flavor."
Dairy Queen's July Blizzard of the Month was Strawberry Mango Mochi, which was released alongside two other summer-inspired flavors.
What do you think of DQ's reported August Blizzard of the Month being the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard?
Next: Starbucks’ Fall 2026 Menu Causes a Stir After Fan-Favorite Drink Is Missing
Nationwide Recall Issued for Popular Gadget Sold at Walmart, Target, Amazon Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death
OCOOPA, a company that makes rechargeable hand warmers and claims to produce “the #1 selling rechargeable hand warmer for 5 years in a row,” has issued a recall of over 1.5 million units of its popular products due to the risk of serious injury or death.
Related: Highest-Level Recall Issued for Thousands of Pounds of Bacon, USDA Urges People ‘Not to Consume’ It
In a statement published on the brand’s website, the company said, “Customer safety is a top priority at OCOOPA. We are addressing a potential safety concern involving certain rechargeable hand warmers and are cooperating with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.” The federal agency further shared that “the lithium-ion battery in the recalled hand warmers can overheat and ignite, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire and burn hazards.”
Furthermore, according to the CPSC’s website, “OCOOPA Direct has received 1,480 reports of hand warmers overheating, resulting in 15 fires and 350 burn injuries, including the death of an 83-year-old consumer in San Diego, California in February 2026.”
Related: Recall Issued for Blueberries, Mixed Berries Due to E. Coli Risk
Per the recall notice, the affected handwarmers were sold on the brand’s websites, Ocoopa.com and Ocoopa.net, as well as on the Amazon and Walmart websites. A separate recall notice was published by Target, indicating that the chain also sold the affected hand warmers.
The following models of recalled hand warmers were sold between September 2018 and May 2026:
- ZLS-118
- ZLS-118S
- ZLS-118D
- H01 and H01(PD)
- UT3053(UT3 Lite)
- UT3056(UT4 Young)
Related: Public Health Alert Issued for Fans’ ‘Favorite Frozen Burritos’ Sold at Costco
The brand’s hand warmers have garnered praise from consumers on social media for years, with Redditors sharing that they like the long battery life, that some models “can be used as a charger,” and stating, “I use this and it’s amazing.”
The CPSC urges consumers to stop using the recalled hand warmers immediately and to “contact OCOOPA Direct for a full refund in the form of an OCOOPA gift card or the original form of payment.”
Next: Nationwide Recall Issued for Children’s Snack Sold at Target, Kroger, Meijer
Prolific Author's 1950 Debut Novel Was Named the Greatest Psychological Thriller of the 20th Century
While there are many modern authors who have established successful careers publishing thrillers, arguably, the most acclaimed mind-bending novels were written decades ago. For instance, Collider recently highlighted a few older novels with plenty of twists by releasing a ranking of "the 10 best psychological thriller books of the 20th century."
The list, published on July 31, included books like 1991's American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis, Rebeccaby Daphne du Maurier from 1938, 1962's A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess, and 1939's And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. According to Collider, the top 20th-century psychological thriller is 1950's Strangers on a Train by prolific American novelist Patricia Highsmith, who also wrote 1955's The Talented Mr. Ripley and died in 1995 at the age of 74. Collider reported that one of the main strengths of the book, which has a rating of 3.75 out of 5 from 40,119 readers on Goodreads, is its murderous, captivating antagonist, Bruno.
Strangers on a Train, Highsmith's first book, inspiredAlfred Hitchcock's 1951 film. In an interview with filmmaker François Truffaut, Hitchcock, who died in 1980 at 80, revealed that he had made the decision to adapt Highsmith's novel, which he described as "alright."
"I chose that," said Hitchcock.
During the interview, Hitchcock said he was "genuinely pleased with the general shape of the picture." However, he also said there were some aspects of the film he was unsatisfied with. The late director suggested that he wasn't pleased with Farley Granger's portrayal of Guy Haines and Ruth Roman's portrayal of Anne Morton. He said he believed that the film's script could have benefited from "stronger characterizations on the part of the leading people."
"I think the faults of Stranger in the Train lie in the lack of strengths of the two leading people. And not good enough final writing," said Hitchcock.
The 1951 film version of Stranger in the Train has a score of 98 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
I Tried Every Item on Pizza Hut's New Throwback Value Menu (Starting at $3)—Here's How They Rank
If you find yourself feeling sticker shock whenever you eat at your favorite restaurant or order takeout, you're not alone. Inflation has made it progressively more expensive to dine out, prompting many families to cook more at home. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like food prices will be taking a dive anytime soon, but foodies can get some temporary relief with Pizza Hut's new Throwback Value Menu.
For a limited time, fans of the pizza chain can order a mix of Pizza Hut classics and new items for prices you likely haven't seen since the '90s. The menu features seven items ranging in price from $3 to $10. When purchased together, the entire menu costs around $35 in total.
I've always been a big fan of Pizza Hut and I love a good deal, so when I heard about the Throwback Value Menu, I knew I had to put it to the test. My husband was more than willing to lend his taste buds to the experiment too, so we sat down for dinner one night and tried each of the seven items together.
We were excited to enjoy some of our favorite classic items and explore the newest additions to the menu. How did everything live up to our expectations? Here's our review.
Related: 12 School Cafeteria Lunches We Honestly Secretly Crave As Adults
What Items Are on the Throwback Value Menu?Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut's Throwback Value menu features the following seven items:
- $10 Medium One-Topping Stuffed Crust Pizza
- $3 One-Topping Personal Pan Pizza
- $4 Breadsticks
- $4 Cinnamon Sticks
- $3 Pepsi 2-Liter
- $6 Triple Cheese Mac (New!)
- $5 S'mores Sticks (New!)
My husband and I selected grilled chicken for the topping on our stuffed crust pizza and pepperoni for our topping on the personal pan pizza.
Related: Doctors Say These ’90s Health Tips Actually Hold up Today
How Long Is the Throwback Value Menu Available?The Pizza Hut Throwback Value Menu is available for a limited time. Pizza Hut has not shared a specific end date for the promotion yet.
Availability and pricing may vary by location. Most Throwback Value Menu items can be ordered for carryout or delivery online and in the chain's app.
Related: 10 ’70s Food Commercials That Lived Rent-Free in Our Heads
Can Any of the Throwback Value Menu Items Be Customized?Some of the items on the Throwback Value Menu can be customized. For instance, the $10 Medium Stuffed Crust Pizza comes with one topping. For an extra charge, you can add more toppings or more cheese.
If you like extra dips with your breadsticks or pizzas, you can also add more dips for an extra charge.
However, S’mores Sticks and Triple Cheese Mac can't be customized.
Related: The 9 Childhood Snacks You Grew Up Eating That Were Quietly Banned
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Pizza Hut's Throwback Value Menu, Ranked from Worst To BestHere are our honest reviews and rankings.
6. Triple Cheese Mac, $6Chrissy Callahan
How Pizza Hut describes it: "Not your basic mac. We use cavatappi noodles, velvety white cheddar, our signature pizza cheese and parm, and bake to cheesy perfection."
Our review: The cavatappi noodles were cooked to perfection and were nice and soft. Personally, I tend to prefer orange cheddar cheese over white cheddar when I eat macaroni and cheese. That being said, it did have a nice creamy, cheesy taste that wasn't sharp or overpowering like some cheddars. We ordered takeout and both agreed that this particular macaroni and cheese would taste better in-restaurant since the cheese thickens more when it travels.
Related: 10 Classic Betty Crocker Recipes Every Millennial Grew Up Eating
5. S'mores Sticks, $5Chrissy Callahan
How Pizza Hut describes it: "A sweet take on the classic breadstick for a limited time. Loaded with toasted marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate – straight from the oven so they’re extra gooey and made to share."
Our review: I'm not a fan of marshmallows but my husband adores s'mores and he was really excited to dig into this one. To start, the base is very similar to the Cinnamon Sticks base. Just like s'mores, it's a messy dessert and it's loaded with a mix of marshmallow bites, chocolate and graham crackers.
The graham crackers taste more like a biscuit than a crunchy graham cracker, in our opinion, but they still taste good. Also, we both agreed that we wanted a bit more chocolate. We weren't blown away, but it's a fun take on a classic dessert.
4. Cinnamon Sticks, $4Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks
How Pizza Hut describes it: "This sweet treat is a true Hut Original. Warm, doughy breadsticks covered in cinnamon and sugar, served with a sweet icing dip. It’s the dessert everyone reaches for."
Our review: Compared to the savory breadsticks, the Cinnamon Sticks are definitely softer and more dessert-like. The cinnamon smell instantly greets you when you open the box, in a delightful way. The cinnamon topping is melty and flaky and has nice flavor. However, it does get a bit messy when you dip it into the icing, which reminded us of cinnamon roll icing. My husband and I are both heavy-handed dippers so we would've preferred two icings, but if you don't use a lot of icing, one is OK.
Related: The Best After-School Snacks From Your Childhood, Ranked By Pure Nostalgia
3. One-Topping Personal Pan Pizza, $3Chrissy Callahan
How Pizza Hut describes it: "The one and only. Enjoy a crispy, golden-brown crust that's soft on the inside. It’s the personal pizza you don't ever have to share. A true Hut Original."
Our review: My husband thoroughly enjoyed his One-Topping Personal Pan Pizza. He described it as "a snack" when he first saw its dainty size, but as he started eating it, he did notice that the thick crust on the pizza was quite filling, especially compared to the stuffed crust pizza's thinner base. And honestly, you can't beat the price.
2. Breadsticks, $4Chrissy Callahan
How Pizza Hut describes it: "Nobody does breadsticks like the Hut. Crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside, and seasoned with garlic and parmesan, they're the true original side that makes every slice better."
Our review: Pizza Hut's breadsticks have always been one of my go-to items whenever I order from the pizza chain. They're crispy on the ends and soft in the middle, with just the right amount of seasoning on top to add some excellent flavor. The marinara dip is always my favorite and has a slight sweet taste to it.
We also tried the garlic dip for the first time. As fans of garlic, we appreciated the strong garlic flavor. It hits you right away, but doesn't linger. The consistency was a little too liquidy but the flavor is spot-on.
1. Medium One-Topping Stuffed Crust Pizza, $10Chrissy Callahan
How Pizza Hut describes it: "Eat it backwards with melted cheese baked right into the crust topped with our Garlic-Parm Hut Blend finisher."
Our review: Whenever I order from Pizza Hut, a stuffed crust pizza is a nonnegotiable. Since I've ordered it many times in the past, I knew $10 for a medium one-topping stuffed crust pizza was a total steal. The stuffed crust is the best part of the pizza and has the perfect amount of melty cheese. The rest of the pizza has a thinner crust and just the right amount of toppings (grilled chicken, in my case). To be honest, there's not much that could dethrone the stuffed crust pizza.
Related: I Tried 22 Cheesecake Factory Appetizers—Here Are 6 Faves and 7 To Skip
Final ThoughtsWhen it came down to it, the Pizza Hut classics were the clear winners in this taste test. While we weren't as obsessed with the newer menu additions, my husband and I did appreciate how the pizza chain got creative with its S'mores Sticks. And overall, you truly can't beat the prices!
Up Next:
'80s Rock Legend and Member of Beloved Rock Band Turns 69
Nearly five decades after helping change the sound of alternative rock, an influential guitarist is celebrating his 69th birthday.
Daniel Ash, best known as a founding member of Bauhaus, was born on July 31, 1957, in Northampton, England. His interest in music started early, though he did not receive his first guitar until he was 15. Ash taught himself to play by listening to records rather than taking lessons, favoring experimentation over traditional technique.
Ash had known future Bauhaus frontman Peter Murphy since childhood. In 1978, the two formed the group alongside brothers David J and Kevin Haskins. Their first studio session produced "Bela Lugosi's Dead," a nearly 10-minute recording that became one of goth rock's most influential songs after its 1979 release.
Bauhaus followed the single with four albums during its original run, including In the Flat Field and Mask. Ash's atmospheric guitar work became a central part of the group's sound, helping distinguish Bauhaus from many of its post-punk contemporaries. He also contributed vocals, saxophone and artwork, designing the cover of Mask.
After Bauhaus initially disbanded in 1983, Ash formed Tones on Tail with Haskins and Glenn Campling. The short-lived group developed a devoted following before Ash, Haskins and David J reunited as Love and Rockets in 1985.
Love and Rockets reached its commercial peak with "So Alive," written and sung by Ash. The song reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1989, giving the guitarist the biggest mainstream hit of his career. He later released several solo albums while continuing to participate in reunions of both Bauhaus and Love and Rockets.
Despite the lasting attention surrounding his earlier work, Ash has remained focused on creating something new. "I don't dwell on the past. I don't sit around analyzing how one song shaped anything," he told VMJ in 2025.
Most recently, Ash joined Public Image Ltd drummer Bruce Smith and Sade bassist Paul Spencer Denman in Ashes and Diamonds. The trio released its 12-track debut album, Are Forever, in October 2025.
As Ash turns 69, his work with three distinct groups continues to show how far his curiosity has carried him, from the beginnings of goth rock to an entirely new project.
Related: '60s Rock Legend, Named 'Best Guitar Player Alive,' Turns 90
1974 Rock Song, Lasting Over 7 Minutes, Is Still a Motivational Hit 52 Years Later
Fifty-two years ago, Canadian rock band Rush released "Working Man," a song that resonated deeply with audiences for its depiction of the lives of blue-collar workers, becoming a motivational anthem that has continued to persevere today.
Released on March 1, 1974, as a track from their self-titled debut album, Rush, "Working Man" quickly became a fan favorite. Because the song was never issued as a commercial single, it never charted on the Billboard Hot 100, but that didn't stop it from reaching Rush's newly formed fanbase.
After the album's release, WMMS radio DJ Donna Halper from Cleveland, Ohio, put the song on heavy rotation, reaching the working-class demographic that inhabited the area. The track's lyrical themes connected deeply with Cleveland natives, rapidly boosting the song's demand. From there, the track spread in popularity, continuing its surge across the rest of the U.S.
Bassist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson and drummer Neil Peart from Canadian progressive rock band Rush posed in Cleveland, Ohio on December, 17 1977.The seven-minute-long song was written by band members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson and explored the, at times, grueling reality of being a blue-collar worker. Lines like "I get up at seven, yeah, and I go to work at nine / I got no time for livin', yes, I'm workin' all the time" highlighted themes of resilience, making for a motivational anthem of sorts among working-class adults.
Lead singer Lee also expressed his interpretation of the song in a 2014 interview, explaining that, to him, it represented an ode to his hard-working family who labored extensively for a better life.
“Our parents were hard-working,” Lee said. “Life was a struggle for most people, no one was wealthy. You thought a lot about your future, and what kind of life do you want to live? Is it going to be enough for me to have that kind of life, where it’s all about work, and a beer at the end of the day and a hug from your kids, and do it all again? So, it’s kind of an ode to that guy who we worked so hard not to be, in a sense."
Today, "Working Class" continues to prove its relevance. Over five decades since its release, the track has broken into the digital era through streaming services. On Spotify alone, the song has garnered over 88.8 million listens, attesting to its lasting message.
Related: 1971 Iconic Ballad, With 22-Year-Old Singer, Was a No. 1 Hit 55 Years Ago Today
The Lenox Spice Village Trend Is Back, and Macy's ‘Vibrant’ Matching Table Linens Are a ‘Beautiful’ Addition
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If you've been seeing Lenox Spice Village popping up all over social media lately, you're not imagining it. The beloved porcelain cottage collection from 1989 to 1993 has made a major comeback thanks to TikTok, where thrift store finds and collector showcases have helped fuel the craze. As demand has grown, resale prices for complete vintage sets have climbed well past $1,000, making the nostalgic collection one of the hottest home decor trends around.
If you love the look but don't want to spend collector prices, there's an easier way to bring the charm home. The Lenox Spice Village Allover Tablecloth is a beautiful alternative, and right now, Macy's has the tablecloth and coordinating Spice Village linens on sale for 50% off. It's an affordable way to embrace the trend without hunting down rare vintage pieces.
@lifewithbrookebwas so excited to finally get to use my spice village at my new apartment! (Had no space for it at my old one) #decoratewithme #grandmillenial #lenoxspicevillage #antiques
♬ original sound - 80s throwback hits Lenox Spice Village Allover Tablecloth, $28 (was $55) at Macy’s Shop at Macy'sThe collection includes several options to fit different tables and entertaining needs. The tablecloth is available in 60 by 84 inches, 60 by 102 inches, and 60 by 120-inch sizes, as well as a 70-inch round version. You can also coordinate the look with a table runner (14 by 70 inches) and a matching set of four napkins (each 19 by 19 inches).
The design captures everything that fans love about the original Spice Village collection. Charming cottages, gardens, and greenery are scattered across a soft pastel blue background, creating a whimsical look that feels straight out of a storybook.
It's also a surprisingly versatile pattern. The vintage-inspired artwork fits beautifully with cottagecore, grandmillennial, and shabby chic interiors while still feeling playful enough to brighten everyday dining. It strikes a balance between nostalgic charm and current decor trends.
Beyond the aesthetics, these linens are practical enough for regular use. Made from 100% polyester, they're machine washable and easy to care for, making them just as suitable for weeknight dinners as they are for holiday gatherings, brunches, or afternoon tea.
One reviewer dubbed the linens as “a must-buy for your Spice Village collection,” writing, “These are absolutely adorable and soft. They will look perfect in my collection.” Another shopper described them as “very beautiful and vibrant” in a five-star review.
Shop More Deals- Lenox Spice Village 5-Piece Kitchen Linens Gift Set, $47 (was $94) at Macy’s
- Lenox Spice Village 6-Piece Spice Jar Savory Set, $75 at Macy’s
- Lenox Spice Village 32-Ounce Teapot, $80 at Macy’s
Whether you're already a Spice Village collector or simply love the cozy, nostalgic aesthetic, the Lenox Spice Village Allover Tablecloth is a charming way to bring the trend into your home. And with Macy's current 50% discount, it's a great opportunity to pick up the coordinating runner or napkins for a complete, cohesive tablescape.
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Sosie Bacon, 34, Is the Spitting Image of Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick—and the Resemblance Is Uncanny
Sosie Bacon, the daughter of legendary actors Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, closely resembles both of her famous parents.
Kevin Bacon is best known for iconic films like Diner, Footloose, Apollo 13, and Mystic River. Sedgwick worked her way into our hearts in the ’90s classic Singles, and earned acclaim for her role on The Closer. But it’s their daughter Sosie, a rising star in her own right, we spotted in a fun new Instagram video alongside her dad. Sedgwick yelled out a first name, and Kevin and his daughter had to answer with a last name of a popular person. While Sosie has dark hair, the striking resemblance to both her parents is visible on her stunning face.
Check out the hilarious video below, in which Kevin and his daughter shout out the names of famous people. From her smile to her eyes, you can see traces of Sosie's parents.
View this post on Instagram What Have Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon Said About Working With Their Children?While working with family can be a tricky business, Kyra Sedgwick said things went smoothly on the set of Family Movie, in which she stars alongside her husband, daughter Sosie, and son, Travis.
“When you’re dealing with actors, you know, that you’re directing that aren’t your children, you’re not like going, ‘How’s their day? Are they okay?’ or ‘Can I help them with this thing?’ And I think it was really hard to separate that at times,” Kyra told Entertainment Weekly. “But I just kept trying to remind myself … I was just utterly impressed with their ability to have stuff going on in their lives and their ability to just show up on set and, like, that stays at home.”
Bacon echoed his wife, telling the publication there was a lot of “pride” to work with his kids.
“They both have an incredibly strong work ethic, a very strong concern and empathy for people and their jobs, and respect amongst crews,” he said. “So that always just makes you feel good.”
I Asked ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini the #1 Habit of Successful People—Here’s the Winner
Once upon a time, many of us speculated about what it would be like if artificial intelligence played a role in our daily lives. Now that AI is an ever-present force and is growing more embedded in our society, more people are using the technology in a variety of ways. AI platforms can jumpstart an interior design project, help you research a work assignment or offer practical advice on a number of topics. With many AI users increasingly turning to these programs for advice, Parade decided to put them to the test and asked ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini the top habit of successful people.
We were curious to know which of the three programs would be the best AI chatbot for advice, so we pitted ChatGPT vs. Claude vs. Gemini to see what they would describe as the best habits for professional growth and the daily routines of highly successful people.
When used in conjunction with advice from real-life professionals, AI productivity hacks and self-improvement AI prompts can help you think in new ways, so we wanted to see how this prompt comparison would shape up.
Which of the AI chatbots offered the best advice? Find out below.
Related: 9 Ways Successful People Handle Constructive Criticism, According to Psychologists
The Experiment: Asking AI for the Ultimate Success HabitBefore this experiment, I'd never used ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini before, so I enlisted the help of my bestie and her husband, who are far more familiar with the programs than I am.
To make sure each of the AI chatbots had a fair chance, we gave them the exact same parameters:
- We asked each of them the following question: "What is the number one habit of successful people?"
- We instructed each program to exclude generic answers like "waking up early" and focus on cognitive habits.
ChatGPT suggested that successful people "deliberately seek feedback that challenges their thinking."
"The highest performers in business, sports, science and the arts share one cognitive habit: they are constantly trying to prove themselves wrong rather than prove themselves right," the chatbot said.
For example, ChatGPT said most people ask, "Did I do a good job?" But successful people ask the following questions:
- "What am I missing?"
- “Where is my blind spot?”
- “How could this have been better?”
"This habit compounds over time because it shortens the learning cycle," the chatbot shared.
ChatGPT gave an example of two people who make the same mistake and said Person A "protects their ego and explains why it happened", while Person B "becomes curious and investigates what led to it."
"After 100 mistakes, Person B has learned 100 lessons. Person A has simply defended
themselves 100 times," the chatbot said.
Per ChatGPT, successful people train their minds to "separate criticism of their work from criticism of themselves" and "change their minds quickly when presented with better evidence." Additionally, they "review failures without shame or excuses" and "ask people who disagree with them for input."
"This is one reason top athletes watch game film, elite surgeons review procedures and great CEOs conduct postmortems after both failures and successes," the chatbot said.
ChatGPT recommended the following daily practice to emulate these habits:
"At the end of each day, ask yourself three questions:
- What did I assume today that might have been wrong?
- What piece of feedback did I resist?
- What is one thing I’ll do differently tomorrow because of what I learned today?"
Overall, ChatGPT offered the following summary of success.
"Success often isn’t about having better ideas—it’s about becoming better at correcting your own thinking. Over years, that ability compounds into better decisions, stronger relationships and greater achievement."
Claude’s Answer: Deliberate, Structured ReflectionClaude described the number one habit of successful people as "deliberate, structured reflection." The AI chatbot said the habit tasks people with "actively reviewing decisions and outcomes to update their thinking, rather than just moving forward on autopilot."
Per Claude, deliberate, structured reflection shows up "in a few specific forms," including the following, which we've shared directly from the chatbot:
- Premortems: Before committing to a decision, imagining it failed and working backward to find why, catching blind spots before they cost anything.
- Distinguishing decision quality from outcome quality: A good decision can still lead to a bad result (and vice versa), so they evaluate their own reasoning process separately from whether things worked out. This keeps luck from being confused with skill.
- Actively seeking disconfirming evidence: Instead of looking for information that supports what they already believe, they specifically hunt for reasons they might be wrong. This fights confirmation bias, which most people don’t even notice they’re doing.
- Calibrated uncertainty: Thinking in probabilities (“I’m 70 percent confident”) rather than binary certainty, which makes it easier to update when new information shows up instead of digging in defensively.
Related: I’ve Tried 9 Free ‘Productivity Apps’—Here Are the 2 That Surprised Me the Most
Gemini’s Answer: MetacognitionGemini named metacognition as the number one habit of highly successful people. Per the chatbot, the term refers to "the practiced mental habit of actively monitoring and questioning one's own assumptions, biases and current thinking models."
"Instead of defaulting to fast, emotional reactions or defending initial impulses, high achievers routinely step back to evaluate how they are making decisions," it said.
Gemini broke down the "mechanics of metacognitive monitoring" and offered up the following critical steps, which we've shared directly from the chatbot:
- Disconfirming Evidence Search: Actively hunting for data that proves their current belief wrong rather than looking for validation.
- Premortem Analysis: Mentally dismantling a plan or project before it launches to find hidden logical flaws or blind spots.
- Thought Auditing: Regularly pausing to ask, "What am I missing here?" or "Is this a fact or just my preference?"
Gemini noted that these practices drive success for the following reasons, which we've shared directly from the chatbot:
- Prevents Escalation of Commitment: Allows leaders to cut losses quickly when initial strategies fail instead of doubling down out of ego.
- Reduces Cognitive Biases: Minimizes the impact of overconfidence and confirmation bias that derail complex projects.
Since they're all unique chatbots, it's not surprising that ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini offered different responses when I asked them to share the number one habit of successful people. However, I was impressed with how similar their responses were at their core.
For instance, ChatGPT said successful people "deliberately seek feedback that challenges their thinking." In its response, the chatbot suggested that successful people embrace, rather than shy away from, criticism and review failures with an open mind. They also welcome differing opinions.
Similarly, Gemini's number one habit—metacognition—is about "actively monitoring and questioning one's own assumptions, biases and current thinking models." The habit might be a bit more focused on evaluating decisions and plans before they're executed, but it steers clear of ego and overconfidence, similar to ChatGPT.
Meanwhile, Claude cited "deliberate, structured reflection" as the number one habit of successful people. The chatbot noted that people with this habit are very intentional about avoiding confirmation bias and are open to disconfirming evidence. Similar to Gemini, Claude cited premortems as a regular practice of successful people. ChatGPT was the only chatbot to mention postmortems.
Overall, all of the chatbots seemed on the same page when it came to keeping an open mind and seeking feedback.
Related: 9 Workplace Habits That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable,’ According to Etiquette Experts
The Verdict: Which AI Actually Gave the Best Advice?Overall, I'd have to go with ChatGPT here. Without a doubt, the chatbot offered the most comprehensive advice out of the three programs. It also spoke in clear terms, making it easy to understand.
I enjoyed the fact that ChatGPT offered up valid examples and action items. The summary of success it provided really hit the nail on the head.
Up Next:
Related: Why Highly Productive People Block off This One Hour Every Day, Career Coaches Say
1997 Shocking True-Crime Story Heading to TV With 'White Lotus' Star Meghann Fahy
With season 4 of The White Lotus expected to premiere in 2027, fans might find themselves reflecting on past installments to decide which is their favorite.
Season 1 arguably takes the cake, though the second effectively built on its concept by expanding with a more vast array of characters. One Emmy-nominated performer from the bunch was Meghann Fahy, who continues to make headlines years after her scene-stealing turn as Daphne.
Just this week, Deadline revealed that HBO — home of The White Lotus — has ordered a five-episode limited series that Fahy, 36, will lead. based on a true story, starring Fahy
The Trial of Louise Woodward is based on a true story and created by Matthew Barry (Industry), who is also showrunner, writer and exec producer, Deadline also noted on Thursday, July 30.
The upcoming show tells the shocking true story of how, in 1997, an 18-year-old British au pair was accused of shaking to death a baby left in her care by her American host family, setting off an international media firestorm as the trial unfolds in full view of both the British and American public.
The project reunites Fahy and Susanne Bier, who is also an executive producer and reportedly directs all episodes, following their star-studded Netflix mystery thriller The Perfect Couple.
“The trial of Louise Woodward raised profound questions about childcare, working mothers, class and the role of an emerging 24/7 media," Barry told Deadline. "Thirty years later, those questions feel more urgent and relevant than ever. I’m grateful to be working with Susanne and our partners at HBO to bring this story, in all its complexity, to the screen.”
Parade spoke exclusively with Fahy earlier this year, where the red-hot actress compared her upcoming movie with Penn Badgley, You Deserve Each Other, to an early-2000s cult classic.
“One of us decides we don’t really want to get married to the other anymore but is too afraid to call it off, so we kind of start torturing each other. It’s sort of like the reverse How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days is how I describe it, which I am obsessed with that film," she told Parade.
Nancy Guthrie Update: Ransom Notes Released as Family’s Search for Answers Reaches 6 Months
Nearly six months after Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Arizona home, investigators are turning to the public in a renewed effort to find the 84-year-old mother of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department released two notesFriday, July 31, that were sent to Tucson television station KOLD shortly after Nancy disappeared. The first arrived Feb. 2, followed by another on Feb. 6. KOLD immediately gave both communications to local investigators and the FBI.
Authorities hope someone will recognize the language used by the writer and provide the lead that finally breaks the case open. KOLD published the contents of both notes.
What the First Nancy Guthrie Ransom Note DemandedThe first message was addressed directly to Savannah. Its writer claimed Nancy was being held and demanded $4 million in bitcoin by Feb. 5. The amount would rise to $6 million if the first deadline passed, according to the note.
Note 1 is below. 2/3 pic.twitter.com/2Zyoz5agwG
— Pima County Sheriff's Department (@PimaSheriff) July 31, 2026The writer threatened to kill Nancy if the second payment deadline was missed and warned, "Do not play games, law enforcement will not be able to help you."
The message also mentioned a white smartwatch near the foot of Nancy’s bed and a damaged backyard floodlight. Investigators have not publicly explained whether those details were known only to someone familiar with the scene.
Second Note Made a Disturbing but Unverified ClaimThe second communication did not seek money. Instead, the writer claimed Nancy had died shortly after being taken and had been buried outdoors. "We never intended to hurt her, that was not our intention. She perished shortly after she was taken," the note read.
That claim has not been verified. The authenticity of the messages also remains in question. Reuters reported in July that federal investigators believed the communications were not sent by Nancy’s abductor. The sheriff’s department is nevertheless seeking the writer’s identity as detectives pursue every available lead.
Investigators Hope Someone Recognizes the Writer In this photo illustration, Nancy Guthrie's alleged kidnapper is seen on FBI Director Kash Patel's X account on a cellular phone February 10, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona.(Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
The sheriff’s department believes the wording may sound familiar to someone who has communicated with the author.
"These communications reveal distinctive patterns of word choice, syntax, and phraseology that reflect the writer’s unique linguistic style," the department said, as reported by KOLD. "They also provide valuable insight into the person’s mindset, motives, and the evolution of their tone over time."
Investigators are also asking people to consider whether someone they know changed their appearance, abruptly left the area, cleaned or repaired a vehicle, missed work or displayed unusual anxiety around the time Nancy vanished. Doorbell-camera footage recovered from Nancy’s home shows an unidentified man whom authorities believe knows what happened to her. Investigators said two recovered videos may have been recorded on separate days.
Savannah Guthrie Begs for Help Finding Her Mother View this post on InstagramSavannah made another deeply personal appeal on Monday, July 27, as her family faced six months without answers. "So I’m asking you, begging you to do the right thing now. Make the right choice. Help us find her. Tell us where to look for her," she said. Nancy was last confirmed at her Catalina Foothills home on Jan. 31. Authorities believe she was taken against her will.
Nancy has not been found, and investigators have not identified or arrested anyone responsible for her disappearance. The Guthrie family is offering up to $1 million for information leading to her recovery.
Anyone with information about the Guthrie case is asked to call Tucson’s 88-Crime hotline at 1-520-882-7463 or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
1969 Record by a Beloved Band Was Just Named the Best Rock Album of All Time
Countless rock bands have produced quality records over the last seven decades or so. However, some records from the high-energy genre, well, simply rock more than others.
On July 31, the publication Collider shared a ranking of "the 25 best rock albums of all time," which highlighted hits that most rock fans have in their record collections. Some of the albums featured on the list are Pink Floyd's 1973 record, The Dark Side of the Moon, The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds from 1966, The Jimi Hendrix Experience's Are You Experienced from 1967, and Metallica's 1991 self-titled album. According to Collider, the top rock album is The Beatles' 1969 record, Abbey Road. The publication pointed to the fact that the British band's 1969 album introduced fans to "Come Together" and "Something," which are now considered classics.
Paul McCartney Shared Some of His Favorite Songs From 'Abbey Road'In a 1969 interview about the release of Abbey Road, Paul McCartney, now 84, shared what his favorite tracks were on the Beatles' 11th album. He said he appreciated John Lennon and George Harrison's songwriting abilities for their respective songs, "Come Together," "Because," and "Something."
"I like 'Come Together.' That's a great one, which is John's song. I like 'Something,' I think it's, for me, I think it's the best [Harrison's] written. And I like 'Because' on the second side," said the musician.
During the interview, McCartney referenced that some original Beatles fans didn't like how much the band changed aesthetically and how they presented publicly compared to how they looked and acted following the release of their first album, 1963's Please Please Me. McCartney said he understood the upset because "it is always a great pity to see a baby turn into an adult because it's always nicer when they're a baby, and they go goo goo, and they do everything you want, you know, it's lovely."
McCartney also said that he, Lennon, who died in 1980 at 40, Harrison, who died in 2001 at 58, and Ringo Starr, now 86, "were sort of particularly nice" when they first rose to fame.
"We had like a very all-round appeal. It wasn't put on, you know, we just we were more like that, but as we've grown up, we've become more individual," explained McCartney.
In addition, he noted that he and his bandmates originally wore leather jackets on stage before sporting their iconic early '60s suits.
"We got suits and ties and stuff. And we went on like that. We gained a whole new audience and lost all the people who wanted us in leather. See, so this is happening again," said McCartney.
McCartney clarified that he did believe there were Beatles fans who wanted the group, which disbanded in 1970, to be authentically themselves.
Netflix Sued for Stolen Film Starring Nicolas Cage
Netflix has found itself in a real-life plot twist worthy of one of its own films, and it sounds more like a Nicolas Cage thriller than an actual lawsuit.
Netflix is being sued after an unreleased World War II film starring Cage was allegedly stolen from one of the streaming giant's Los Angeles offices, with the movie's producer now seeking at least $105 million in damages.
According to a lawsuit obtained by Rolling Stone, British production company Op-Fortitude claims it delivered an unencrypted digital copy of its upcoming film, “Fortitude”, to Netflix for review in June. Days later, the company alleges it received an email from a Netflix executive explaining that several hard drives had been stolen from employees' desks.
"This is a first for us," the executive allegedly wrote, adding that Netflix believed the drives may have been taken for scrap and that its security and anti-piracy teams were investigating.
The producer argues the loss could severely damage the film's value because it has yet to be released. The lawsuit claims Fortitude, directed by Simon West (Con Air and The Expendables 2) and starring Nicolas Cage, Ben Kingsley, Ron Perlman, Matthew Goode, Michael Sheen and Alice Eve, took seven years to complete and cost more than $45 million to produce.
According to Rolling Stone, the film tells the story of WWII double agent Duško Popov, whose exploits are widely believed to have inspired Ian Fleming's James Bond.
Netflix, however, disputes the allegations. In a statement, the streamer said it takes content security seriously and has conducted an investigation while monitoring piracy sites for any unauthorized release of the film. The company also said it has found no evidence that Fortitude has leaked and rejected claims that it is responsible for the loss, arguing that the film was delivered without standard industry security safeguards.
For now, there's no evidence the film has actually leaked. But with dueling accusations, a stolen hard drive and a $105 million price tag, this real-life legal drama already has the makings of its own movie, or perhaps a Netflix documentary.
Dairy Queen Is Offering 99-Cent Blizzards in August—Here's How to Get One
Dairy Queen is serving up one of its sweetest deals of the summer!
Starting Monday, Aug. 3, DQ Rewards members can score a Blizzard Treat for just $0.99 as part of the chain's Blizzard Double Flip promotion.
Here's everything you need to know about the limited-time offer.
How to get a $0.99 blizzard from Dairy QueenFrom Aug. 3–30, DQ Rewards members who purchase one Blizzard Treat can get a second Blizzard Treat for just $0.99.
To claim the deal, open the DQ app, head to the deals tab, and add two Blizzard Treats to your mobile order. The offer is valid at participating locations and may take up to 24 hours to appear in your account.
Not a member yet? You can join DQ Rewards for free through the Dairy Queen app, available on the App Store and Google Play.
RELATED: Subway Is Giving Away Free Footlongs Until August 18—Here’s How to Get One
More August food dealsIf you're looking to save on more than just ice cream this month, several other chains are offering limited-time promotions.
On Aug. 3, Dunkin' will give away 1 million free refreshers. That morning, the coffee chain will release a code that customers can enter in the Offers & Rewards section of the Dunkin' app to redeem a free medium refresher. The offer is available to the first 1 million customers who claim it.
Meanwhile, Subway is offering eligible Subway Sub Club members a buy one, get one free footlong now through Aug. 18.
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1971 Iconic Ballad, With 22-Year-Old Singer, Was a No. 1 Hit 55 Years Ago Today
Fifty-five years ago today, iconic '70s singer-songwriter James Taylor topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart with his hit song "You've Got a Friend."
Released in May 1971 as a single following the April release of his third studio album, Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon, "You've Got a Friend" became a major mainstream hit. On June 5, the track entered the Billboard Hot 100, climbing the chart until it hit No. 1 on July 31. It topped the tally for one week, marking Taylor's first and only No. 1 single.
Aside from its chart feat, the single also achieved significant commercial success. "You've Got a Friend" earned a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for moving over 1 million units in the U.S. alone. It also took home a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1972.
Singer-songwriters James Taylor and Joni Mitchell provide backing vocals during the recording of Carole King's album 'Tapestry' at A&M Records Recording Studio in January 1971 in Los Angeles, California. Creating "You've Got a Friend"When Taylor recorded "You've Got a Friend," he was only 22 years old. At the time, the young artist was collaborating closely with fellow singer-songwriter Carole King, who wrote the track as a direct response to a line in Taylor's 1970 song "Fire and Rain."
In "Fire and Rain," Taylor sang, "I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend," prompting King to pen a reassuring musical response. The beautiful friendship tribute was later featured as a track on her landmark album Tapestry, which debuted two months before Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon.
While in the studio working on his third solo record, Taylor recorded his own rendition of the song. After receiving King's blessing, it was included as an official addition to the album. King praised his take on the track, telling Rolling Stone, "Hearing his rendition of it for the first time, it was like oh my God. It's perfect."
Over five decades after its release, "You've Got a Friend" remains a staple among soft-rock lovers. In the digital era, the track continues to resonate on streaming platforms, raking in over 254 million listens on Spotify alone. Its lasting support affirms its ability to bridge generations through its timeless message.
Related: 1970 Soft Rock Song, With 17-Year-Old Singer, Became a No. 1 Hit
