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Country musician Brian “Nashville” Duckworth, a longtime member of the West Virginia country group Taylor Made, has died at 56.

Duckworth died at his home in Clarksburg, West Virginia, on Monday, Sept. 7, according to his obituary. No cause of death has been publicly disclosed.

While Duckworth found success as a country musician, music was something that had been part of his life long before he ever stepped onto a stage. He and his siblings grew up singing together in Taylor County, West Virginia, with their mother teaching them to harmonize.

The family’s musical beginnings were as simple as singing on the back porch. Their neighbors would even call out song requests for the children to perform.

Years later, Duckworth and his siblings Greg and Wendy would turn those family harmonies into a country music career.

Brian Duckworth Found Success With Taylor Made

The siblings initially came together as a trio called I-79 for the Colgate Country Showdown. They won their local competition, and the experience convinced them that their three voices worked better together than they did apart.

They eventually became Taylor Made, building their sound around their signature three-part sibling harmony. The group released songs including “Heavy Duty Beauty,” “Good Love,” “Things You Don’t Grow Out Of” and “That’s What Life Is.”

Taylor Made’s “Good Love” reached No. 28 on the MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart, while “Things You Don’t Grow Out Of” climbed to No. 19. The group was also named MusicRow’s Independent Artist of the Year in 2012.

The siblings continued performing throughout West Virginia and beyond, opening for artists including Sugarland, Randy Travis and Charlie Daniels.

Related: Kenny Chesney’s Latest Hit Was Inspired by Heartbreak and an Iconic ‘Ted Lasso’ Episode

Music Was Always a Family Affair

For Duckworth, performing wasn’t simply a career. It was an extension of the family tradition that began at home.

He also maintained a life away from music, working as a dump truck driver for Wolfe’s Excavating. His obituary notes that he was known as the “Truck Boss” and loved spending time outdoors.

Duckworth is survived by his wife, Tina, six children and four grandchildren, with another granddaughter on the way. He is also survived by his siblings, including Taylor Made bandmates Greg Duckworth and Wendy Adams.

Although his life was filled with music, family and hard work, perhaps the most fitting part of Duckworth’s story is where it all began: three siblings singing together on a West Virginia back porch.

Related: 1966 Song Inspired by a Romance With an Older Woman Became Neil Diamond’s First Chart Success

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Snack Factory’s Pumpkin Spice White Crème Pretzel Crisps are back for another season and are introducing a brand-new flavor. Meet Apple Spice White Crème, a fresh orchard-inspired take that’s giving apple pie vibes in every crunch. Both varieties take the brand’s signature thin, crunchy Pretzel Crisps and dip them in rich white crème before adding a warm, spiced drizzle.

The Pumpkin Spice version delivers the familiar cozy flavors of the season, with pumpkin-pie-inspired spices layered over the sweet crème and salty pretzel. The new Apple Spice variety offers a different take on fall, pairing apple-flavored white crème with a new spiced drizzle for an orchard-inspired twist.

Sam’s Club members get an extra treat: the Pumpkin Spice White Crème Pretzel Crisps are available in an exclusive 20 oz size for $12.39 – perfect for fall sports entertaining, movie nights, or if you simply don’t want to share. Both flavors are also available nationwide in 4 oz bags for $4.69 while supplies last.

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The timing couldn’t be better. Nearly one in three households buy pumpkin spice products as soon as they hit shelves, and more than half of consumers say they’re ready for new fall flavors. Snack Factory is answering the call with two options that shine on their own but are also made for pairing: *think caramel dip, cream cheese, or your favorite fall charcuterie board.

So whether you’re firmly on Team Pumpkin Spice or ready to give Apple Spice a try, Snack Factory has a sweet-and-salty way to fall into fall.

The Clash released the politically charged 1978 hit “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais,” which would not only go on to be named one of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time but was also inspired by an unusual reggae event.

Honoring the timeless, culturally significant and influential songs in music history, Rolling Stone released the 2024 list of the top 500 tracks that left a lasting legacy in the industry.

Securing the No. 341 spot is the London quartet behind the track “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais.”

The outlet emphasized the song’s significance, particularly to Joe Strummer, who continued performing the song even after the band’s disbandment in early 1986.

It was also one of the last songs the late frontman ever played.

The Clash members Joe Strummer, Paul Simonon, Mick Jones, Nicky ‘Topper’ Headon in New York, September 1978

Michael Putland/Getty Images

Initially released as a standalone single, the iconic band later included it on the U.S. version of their self-titled debut album in 1979.

At that time, “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais” was more successful in the U.K., peaking at No. 32 on the U.K. Singles Chart, but failed to enter the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

However, the song gradually gained recognition among listeners and was voted Single of the Year in NME’s 1978 end-of-year readers’ poll and ranked No. 7 in John Peel’s Festive Fifty for 1978.

The inspiration behind “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais” came from an eye-opening experience involving The Clash frontman Joe Strummer, who co-wrote the song with Mick Jones.

He attended an all-night reggae event at Hammersmith Palais de Danse, a famous music venue in London, which had hosted iconic bands like The Sex Pistols, The Cure, David Bowie and others.

At the time, he expected to experience an exciting night of reggae music with performances by Dillinger, Leroy Smart and Delroy Wilson, but the experience made him look at music and cultural divisions from another perspective.

“The audience was really hardcore,” Strummer mentioned in an interview as cited by Rolling Stone. “I felt they were looking for something different from a showbiz spectacle. It was very Vegas. I was enjoying the show, but I felt like I saw it through their eyes for a minute or two.” 

Moreover, the “white man” in the song was Strummer himself, representing the perspective of an isolated outsider.

Over four decades since it was released, “(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais” ultimately remains one of The Clash’s most acclaimed tracks, earning a place among the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

Related: 1979 Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Rock Songs’ of All Time Became a Timeless Anthem

If you love Neil Diamond, you probably know “Cherry, Cherry” within the first few seconds, but you may not know the surprisingly personal story behind it. The 1966 hit was inspired by Diamond’s romance with a significantly older woman, and somehow that real-life relationship became the catchy, feel-good song that gave him his first major hit. Nearly 60 years later, “Cherry, Cherry” is still one of those Neil Diamond songs that instantly takes you back.

Neil Diamond Was a Songwriter Before He Was a Star @neildiamond

Let’s kick off this week with some “Cherry, Cherry” 🍒 ~Team Neil #CherryCherry #HappyMonday #NeilDiamond

♬ Cherry, Cherry – Neil Diamond

Before Neil Diamond became a recording artist and touring sensation in the 1970s and 1980s, he was already making a name for himself as a songwriter in New York’s Brill Building. His songs were being recorded by other artists while he was still trying to establish himself as a performer.

Jay and the Americans had a Top 20 hit with Diamond’s “Sunday and Me” in 1965. Diamond also wrote songs that would later become major hits for The Monkees, including “I’m a Believer,” which was recorded and released in 1966, and “A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You,” released in 1967.

Other artists soon discovered Diamond’s songwriting, too. He wrote “Kentucky Woman,” which he recorded himself in 1967, before Deep Purple released its own version in 1968. Elvis Presley also recorded Diamond’s “And the Grass Won’t Pay No Mind” in 1969, along with a live version of “Sweet Caroline” that appeared on Elvis’ 1970 album On Stage.

Diamond was becoming known as a songwriter even as he was working toward becoming a star in his own right.

Related: 1971 Song That Took Four Months to Write Named Neil Diamond’s Greatest Song Ever

“Cherry, Cherry” Changed Neil Diamond’s Career

By 1966, Diamond had signed with Bang Records and was finally getting the opportunity to record his own material. “Cherry, Cherry,” released that year, was his second single for the label, following “Solitary Man.”

The song became his breakthrough hit, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. More than just another catchy pop song, it established Diamond as a recording artist who could create a hit for himself, not just write one for someone else.

And there’s an especially fun connection between “Cherry, Cherry” and one of the biggest songs of the 1960s.

After hearing “Cherry, Cherry,” music publisher Don Kirshner asked Diamond if he had another upbeat song that might work for The Monkees. Diamond played him “I’m a Believer,” a song he had originally intended to record himself. The Monkees recorded it with Micky Dolenz on lead vocals, and it became a No. 1 hit.

So the success of “Cherry, Cherry” didn’t just give Diamond his first major hit as a performer. It helped put another one of his songs on the path to becoming a pop classic.

Who Was the Older Woman Who Inspired “Cherry, Cherry”? @neildiamond

Young people were searching for answers in the 1960s. Some took to the road, while Neil Diamond found his way to Greenwich Village, where he began performing in intimate coffeehouses. It was a formative chapter in Neil’s journey, a foundational era that helped shape the extraordinary artist we know and love today. ❤️

♬ Glory Road – Neil Diamond

Diamond has said that “Cherry, Cherry” was inspired by an early relationship with a significantly older woman, but he never publicly identified her.

That mystery adds another layer to a song that sounds so carefree. “Cherry, Cherry” is bright, flirtatious and full of youthful energy, but its inspiration came from a real relationship that Diamond has kept largely private.

Rather than knowing the woman’s name or having every detail of their romance, we are left with the song itself. And maybe that’s part of what makes the story so intriguing: a private romance became one of Diamond’s most recognizable songs.

“Cherry, Cherry” Became a Neil Diamond Classic

The song’s initial success was only the beginning. Diamond continued performing “Cherry, Cherry” throughout his career, and the song became part of his signature live repertoire.

It was included on Hot August Night, Diamond’s landmark live album recorded at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles in August 1972. The album helped capture the larger-than-life performer Diamond had become, while giving early songs such as “Cherry, Cherry” a second life onstage.

More than half a century after its release, “Cherry, Cherry” remains one of Diamond’s best-known songs. Its staying power is a reminder that the songs we remember for their irresistible hooks often have stories behind them that are far more personal than they first appear.

For Diamond, the story of “Cherry, Cherry” is also the story of a turning point. He didn’t become a music legend overnight. He built his career one song at a time, first as a songwriter for other artists and then as the unmistakable voice behind songs of his own.

Related: 1986 Song Inspired by ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider’ Became Carly Simon’s 12th Top 40 Hit

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Hulu’s Furious is undeniably one of the best shows of the year. From career-defining performances from Emmy Rossum and Lola Petticrew, to poignant needle drops from Fiona Apple and Cass Elliot, the series has become the definition of a sleeper-hit. Yet, as watchable as it is, the series is also one of the most gruesome of the year. Following FBI Agent Alice Black (Rossum) as she tries to catch serial killer Catherine Grace (Petticrew), the show is more than the cat-and-mouse chase it shields itself to be. 

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What sets the series apart from others of its kind is how unyielding it is in showcasing the brutality of the world both Alice and Catherine exist within. In her field, Alice has been shunned by her fellow agents after the reinstatement of her abusive ex-boyfriend, Marshall (Jake Lacy), who is also a cop. Everyone has turned their back on her save for fellow agent Danny (Scoot McNairy), and getting what she needs for her case becomes an impossible task. On the other side of things, Catherine doesn’t just kill men for pleasure, she kills those who are directly involved in the trafficking scheme that she was a victim of, and which led to the death of her best friend Isabel Luna (Larissa Campos). As their separate stories unfold, they also become more intertwined. We watch as Alice is forced to coexist with the man who abused her, and the men who took his side when his abusive ways were exposed.

Furious spotlights victims of abuse — warts and all

Furious paints a portrait of how women who report abusive men are ostracized by the communities that are supposed to protect them, and are often further victimized by these institutions. Yet one of the most compelling aspects of Alice as a character is how she has tried to heal from this abuse. Instead of swearing off men forever like some would, she invites them over and asks them to wrestle, hit and slap her before they engage in sex.

Neither a perfect victim in the eyes of her peers or in the eyes of the audience, Alice is a fascinating examination of how violence begets violence. For some, recovering from abuse means inviting more of it in, but this time, Alice does it at her own volition. It’s not a perfect healing tactic, sure, but it’s not unlike coping mechanisms that viewers like myself have engaged with as a means to recover from the horrors they’ve faced. On the opposite end of the spectrum is Catherine, who, unlike Alice, harnesses violence against others as a means to regain control over her life and enact revenge.

In Catherine’s case, creator and writer Elizabeth Meriwether showcases how victims of abuse can evolve to be perpetrators of violence themselves. Despite this, Furious never positions her as someone the show’s audience should detest. Instead, with each episode, Catherine becomes more fascinating, and someone Meriwether clearly wants us to feel empathy for. This doesn’t stop the camera’s lens from framing Catherine’s violence upon the men who victimized her as anything short of harrowing. Instead, the camera zooms in on the arms of the men whom she injects fentanyl into, as well as their eyes as they slowly meet their demise. Unlike her peers, Meriwether makes it clear that the brutality embedded within this series is essential not only to the two women it focuses on, but its success as an examination of violence in the modern age.

Related: Who Is Emmy Rossum’s Husband, Sam Esmail? How They Went From Rom-Com to Real-Life Romance

Furious does more than shine a light on the abuses both Alice and Catherine face; it showcases these acts tenfold. Both women haven’t been able to escape the harsh realities of the lives they’ve lived, so why should the show’s viewers be shielded from them? This brutality is even present within the show’s dialogue, often aptly delivered by Nora Washington (Quincy Tyler Bernstine), the sardonic head of the FBI’s sex crimes unit. “Women are supposed to be hit and raped,” she tells Alice, “and go away and die quietly, not start murdering people.”

The series makes sure that you can’t look away from the violence showcased within this world, but that’s what makes it all the more captivating. In a television landscape where popular thrillers guide their audience through themes and character motivations, Meriwether pushes her viewers off a cliff, forcing them to dive headfirst into a world that mirrors our own. Though the horrors feel incomprehensible, we live in a post-Epstein world where violence against women is exposed on the news on a weekly basis. Despite the initial uncovering of these acts, many of the men involved have had their identities hidden, and for those who have been exposed, the consequences for these actions have been abysmal. 

As a survivor of abuse myself, each episode of this series has left me just as stunned as it has left me bereft. When the screen goes dark after the credits, what I’m left to reckon with is my own face mirrored back at me through the dark television screen. This feels purposeful—the way in which Furious continues to end on a sour note, almost as if Meriwether wants her viewers to confront not only what they’ve just witnessed on screen, but how pieces of their own lives may be similar to the paths that Alice and Catherine have taken. It’s a bold choice for a series so popular, but perhaps it’s the only choice to be made in a world where violence against women continues to shape our entertainment industry and our political landscape. 

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available 24 hours a day through RAINN‘s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

Related: I Watch TV for a Living—These Are the 21 New and Returning Shows I Can’t Wait to See This Fall

If your ideal fall aesthetic involves cozy candlelight, pumpkin everything and a table that looks like it belongs in a charming cottage, Dollar General has a very inexpensive way to get the look. The autumn collection adorning its shelves is packed with budget-friendly finds, and these adorable fall doilies might be the easiest way to give your tablescape a cute upgrade for less.

The Perfect Harvest orange doilies come in two equally cute designs, and each pack is just $1. That means you can grab a few sets without watching your decorating and entertainment budget disappear. Both prints come in a two-pack, and each doily measures 12 inches, perfect for decorating and hosting.

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Perfect Harvest Orange Round Shaped Doilies, 2-Count, $1 at Dollar General

Dollar General

The first, Perfect Harvest Orange Round Shaped Doilies, comes in a vibrant orange design featuring an intricate lace pattern decorated with pumpkins and floral motifs, giving that sweet, old-fashioned cottagecore feel.

Then there are the Perfect Harvest Orange Pumpkin Shaped Doilies. These take the pumpkin theme a step further, with each doily shaped like a pumpkin and finished with a detailed lace pattern. The rich orange color practically begs to be paired with cinnamon-colored napkins, wooden serving pieces or a vase filled with autumn foliage.

Related: Costco Just Dropped the Prettiest Jewel-Toned Dutch Oven Set

While they’re technically doilies, don’t feel obligated to reserve them for the occasional vase or centerpiece. Their thoughtful size makes them an easy stand-in for placemats, particularly if you’re going for a more whimsical, layered tablescape. Place one beneath each dinner plate, add a wicker charger, neutral napkin and simple flatware, and suddenly your everyday table is giving full-on harvest dinner party.

And because the two designs have slightly different personalities, you can mix and match them. Use the round pumpkin and floral style for some spots and the pumpkin-shaped version for others, or stick with one design for a more coordinated look. Either way, the warm orange color instantly brings a little autumn energy to the table.

At just $1 per two-pack, these are the kind of dollar store finds that make seasonal decorating feel delightfully low-stakes. They’re cute enough to make a statement, inexpensive enough to stock up on and versatile enough to pull out for everything from a casual fall dinner to Thanksgiving.

Related: Sam’s Club’s Bubble Stoneware Plates Bring a ‘Whimsical and Luxurious’ Touch to Any Table

By 1975, Jeff Beck was ready to let his guitar do all the singing. On one of the standout tracks from his first entirely instrumental solo album, he turned to a song written by an artist with whom he had already formed a remarkable creative connection.

“Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers,” written by Stevie Wonder, became a centerpiece of Beck’s Blow by Blow. His expressive interpretation eventually took on a reputation far beyond the album, with Guitar World ranking the performance among its 50 greatest guitar solos of all time.

The song didn’t originate with Beck.

Wonder wrote “Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers” for his then-wife Syreeta Wright, who released a vocal version on her 1974 album Stevie Wonder Presents: Syreeta. Beck and Wonder had already worked together during the sessions for Wonder’s 1972 album Talking Book, a collaboration that also connected the two musicians to another future rock classic: “Superstition.”

“The idea was that I was going to guest on his record and he was going to give me a song in return,” Beck said in a 1989 interview. “Stevie gave me [‘Cause We’ve Ended As Lovers’] as an apology for releasing ‘Superstition’ first. He wrote [it] for me, but the record company had the power to prevent any other record coming out and they said, ‘This is a number one smash: Beck doesn’t get this.'”

Beck took a dramatically different approach to “Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers.”

Without a singer, his guitar carries the melody and emotion of Wonder’s composition. The performance begins quietly before gradually intensifying through bends, volume swells, and shifts in dynamics, allowing Beck to make his instrument sound remarkably vocal.

He also used a distinctive guitar for the recording. Rather than the Fender Stratocaster that became closely associated with him, Beck played his famous “Tele-Gib,” a Telecaster fitted with humbucking pickups.

The performance carried another guitarist’s influence as well. Beck dedicated the track to Roy Buchanan, whose expressive use of volume and tone controls influenced the swells heard in Beck’s playing.

“Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers” appeared on Blow by Blow, which was produced by Beatles collaborator George Martin.

“As ever there, the atmosphere was great,” Beck told Total Guitar. “When you’re in a good studio with good people, sometimes tracks can just come together out of nowhere. I am always amazed at what people can create when they are in the right mindset. George Martin always made me feel like I was in the headmaster’s office when I was in a studio with him. I always tried to be on my best musical behavior. But he had a unique way of hearing and visualizing tracks so we got to create some amazing music.”

Released in 1975, the album reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200, becoming Beck’s highest-charting solo album.

Decades later, the track’s reputation has only strengthened. Guitar World placed it at No. 36 in its readers’ ranking of the 50 greatest guitar solos of all time and separately named it the greatest solo in its rundown of Beck’s career.

What began as a Stevie Wonder ballad ultimately became one of Beck’s signature performances. Fifty-one years later, “Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers” remains a striking example of how he could make an electric guitar communicate as vividly as any human voice.

Related: 1970 Folk Song, Written in a Hawaii Hotel, Is Still a Powerful Hit 56 Years Later

Fifty-one years ago, Peter Frampton released “Baby, I Love Your Way,” a soft-rock ballad that became a quintessential summer anthem and remains popular today.

“Baby, I Love Your Way” was originally released in September 1975 as a single from his self-titled fourth studio album, Frampton. Although the song wasn’t initially popular, it garnered significant mainstream traction following the release of its live version from his iconic live album Frampton Comes Alive!

The live rendition launched the song into the mainstream spotlight, entering the Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 1976. By late August, it peaked at No. 12, spending 15 consecutive weeks charting on the tally.

Peter Frampton, British singer and guitarist, playing a Gibson Les Paul guitar on stage during a live concert performance, circa 1976.

Fin Costello/Redferns/Getty Images

The Creation of “Baby, I Love Your Way”

“Baby, I Love Your Way” was written by Frampton during a quiet afternoon vacationing in the Bahamas. The English songwriter took a trip there on his weeks off with the intention of writing a new album. After slacking for the first few weeks, he bumped into his guitar hero Alvin Lee at the airport, inspiring a second wind.

“The next day I messed around with my acoustic and in about 20 minutes came up with the chords that became ‘Show Me the Way,’ [another song off Frampton]” he recalled in a 2019 interview with The Guardian. “I had some lunch and a little swim and under a palm tree I then wrote ‘Baby I Love Your Way.’ Both songs are about the girlfriend I was about to start living with.”

Produced by Frampton, “Baby, I Love Your Way” sounds like it was made for a vacation playlist. Its soft acoustics blend seamlessly with layered electric guitar and bass accents, creating a breezy atmosphere that mirrors the setting in which he wrote it.

To this day, Frampton’s single remains a classic, bridging the gap between generations of audiences on streaming platforms. On Spotify alone, the song has accumulated over 143 million streams across its many popular versions—attesting to its lasting “it” factor.

Related: 1970 Rock Song, With 19-Year-Old Singer From a Chicago Suburb, Became a Career-Defining Hit

You don’t have to drive to an AMC theater to get popcorn anymore. AMC has added Grubhub to its list of delivery partners who can bring concessions right from your local theater to your front door, just in time for your next at-home movie night.

In a recent press release, AMC Theatres reported seeing continued growth in its home delivery business, with sales up nearly 50% year-to-date in 2026 compared with the same period last year. By partnering with Grubhub, AMC Theatres’ concessions are now available for home delivery from all three major delivery platforms: Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats. 

To get AMC popcorn delivered to your door, visit the AMC Theatres Home Delivery website and select your preferred delivery service. Once you’ve found a participating theater and delivery service, you’ll be able to choose from available concessions like pretzel bites, popcorn, and pizza. According to AMC, guests also can check availability by searching for “AMC Theatres” in Grubhub, DoorDash or Uber Eats.

At participating locations, Grubhub listings include options such as the MegaBag, large popcorn and other concessions. Depending on your location, you might also find newer Feature Fare items like Popcorn Chicken or Hot Honey Sausage Pizza on the delivery menu, although AMC says available menu items may vary by location.

And it’s not just popcorn and other food items available for delivery—the popular AMC MegaBag is available, too. The MegaBag is three times larger than a large AMC Theatres popcorn and comes with a side of buttery flavored topping. It’s perfect for movie night, game day, or any other gathering where you need to serve up lots of movie theater popcorn.

“There’s nothing quite like enjoying popcorn and your favorite concessions while watching a movie on the big screen, but we know our guests also love bringing a little bit of that AMC experience home,” Mo Haq, vice president of food and beverage operations at AMC Theatres, said in a press release. “The growth we’re seeing in home delivery shows that people want to enjoy their AMC favorites beyond a trip to the theater, and adding Grubhub makes it even easier for them to do just that.”

Robert De Niro has starred in over 100 films throughout his stunning career. From ’80s releases Raging Bull and Once Upon a Time in America and ’90s classics A Bronx Tale, Goodfellas, and Casino, to 2000s hits Meet the Parents and The Irishman, the screen legend has undoubtedly made his mark in Hollywood—across every genre imaginable, too.

But even before then, he had already cemented himself a household name. With a career dating back to the 1960s, De Niro’s breakout role came in 1973 with Bang the Drum Slowly, and a few years later, he was featured in a film that has now been ranked the greatest movie of the 1970s by IMDb: Taxi Driver (1976).

The legendary actor, 31 years old at the time it was filmed, stepped into the role of Travis Bickle, a lonely 26-year-old Vietnam War veteran. The storyline is centered around a “mentally unstable veteran working as a nighttime taxi driver in New York City, where the perceived decadence and sleaze fuels his urge for violent action.” Martin Scorsese‘s crime mystery drama also features Jodie Foster and Cybill Shepherd.

“Suffering from insomnia, disturbed loner Travis Bickle (De Niro) takes a job as a New York City cabbie, haunting the streets nightly, growing increasingly detached from reality as he dreams of cleaning up the filthy city. When Travis meets pretty campaign worker Betsy (Shepherd), he becomes obsessed with the idea of saving the world, first plotting to assassinate a presidential candidate, then directing his attentions toward rescuing 12-year-old prostitute Iris (Foster),” an online synopsis reads.

With a near-perfect 4.6/5-star rating on Prime Video, it has earned an 89% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes, and a fan-generated 93% Popcornmeter rating, with over 250K reviews. It was also ranked among the site’s 300 best movies of all time.

Flash forward to present day, 50 years after its release, the film’s gritty appeal still remains. “It is swaggering, inventive, gasp-inducing cinema,” Kevin Maher of The Times UK remarked in July 2026.

“Anchored by De Niro’s chilling performance, it is easy to see why it ranks in the top 100 films of all time,” another critic wrote, while Kevin Kelly of Boston Globe wrote, “Taxi Driver is so volatile it nearly explodes from the screen. Under Martin Scorsese’s brilliant direction, it works a dramatic tension that is inescapable, carefully, systematically straitjacketing its audience in the problems of its central character.”

Reflecting on the film’s massive success decades later, the iconic, now 83-year-old actor admitted, “You never can think that you’re doing something that’s going to have an impact,” according to Page Six. “You just never look at it that way.”

Next, 1992 Morgan Freeman Movie, With a 96% Rotten Tomatoes Score, Ranked as One of the Best Movies of All Time

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Every kilowatt-hour matters when your home produces its own electricity. For homeowners relying heavily on rooftop solar, reducing energy demand can be just as important as adding more panels or battery capacity. Heating and cooling typically account for a large share of household energy use, and inefficient windows can add substantially to that load.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that heat gain and heat loss through windows account for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. That makes windows an important part of the home’s thermal envelope when you’re trying to stretch solar production and stored energy as far as possible.

So, are new windows worth it for solar-powered and off-grid homes? The answer depends largely on how efficiently the home already uses the energy it produces.

If your current windows are drafty, single-pane or showing signs of deterioration, Renewal by Andersen offers a free in-home consultation to evaluate replacement options and recommend glass packages suited to your climate.

Why Do Energy-Efficient Windows Matter for Solar Homes?

Energy-efficient windows reduce the amount of heat entering or leaving the home, which can lower the electricity required for heating and air conditioning. For a solar-powered home, that means more of the electricity produced is available for other household loads or stored for later use.

The Department of Energy recommends looking for efficiency improvements before sizing a residential solar system. Its consumer solar guidance specifically suggests conducting a home energy audit and making energy-saving improvements before determining long-term electricity needs.

The same principle becomes even more important off-grid. A DOE building-science guide recommends reducing a home’s energy-load requirements as much as possible before adding onsite renewable-energy systems.

How Can Windows Affect Solar and Battery Requirements?

Solar panels generate electricity only when sufficient sunlight is available. Batteries store some of that electricity for nighttime, cloudy weather and other periods when production cannot meet demand. Reducing the home’s load makes that stored energy last longer.

DOE research on solar-plus-storage homes notes that homeowners generally should identify energy-efficiency measures before considering storage because more efficient homes require less solar storage. That doesn’t mean replacing windows automatically lets you buy a smaller battery. Insulation, air sealing, HVAC efficiency, climate and household electricity use all contribute to the final load.

Windows are one major piece of the larger envelope.

Which Window Features Matter Most for an Energy-Efficient Home?

Window Feature

Why It Matters

Low U-factor

Reduces heat transfer through the window

Appropriate SHGC

Controls how much solar heat enters the home

Low-E glass

Reflects heat while allowing visible light through

Multiple panes

Improves insulation compared with single-pane glass

Tight installation

Reduces drafts and unwanted air leakage

Climate-specific glass

Balances heat gain and heat loss for local conditions

The Department of Energy identifies U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient, or SHGC, as two of the primary measures of window energy performance. A lower U-factor means the window transfers less heat. SHGC measures how much solar radiation passes through the window, making the ideal rating dependent on climate and window orientation.

Renewal by Andersen offers several glass packages designed for different climates and efficiency needs, which can be compared during a free in-home consultation.

How Much Energy Can Better Windows Save?

Savings depend heavily on what you’re replacing. ENERGY STAR says replacing old single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR-certified models can lower household energy bills by an average of up to 13% nationwide. Homes with newer double-pane windows may see a smaller improvement, while houses with aging single-pane windows, deteriorated frames or significant drafts have more room for improvement.

ENERGY STAR also emphasizes that energy-efficient windows improve comfort by reducing the energy waste associated with old, leaky or degraded windows.

For an off-grid homeowner, the benefit isn’t limited to the utility bill. Lower heating and cooling demand can also reduce how quickly stored electricity is depleted.

How Do Renewal by Andersen Windows Improve Energy Efficiency?

Renewal by Andersen offers several glass options designed to manage heat transfer and solar gain. For example, their High-Performance Low-E4 glass is designed for both warm and cool climates, while SmartSun glass places greater emphasis on limiting unwanted solar heat.

According to Renewal by Andersen, its High-Performance Low-E4 SmartSun glass is 70% more energy efficient in summer than ordinary dual-pane glass, based on the company’s comparison of window U-factors using International Energy Conservation Code reference values. Renewal by Andersen also offers enhanced triple-pane configurations for colder climates, along with its Fibrex composite frame material.

The appropriate option depends on climate, orientation and the performance of the existing windows.

New Windows From Renewal by Andersen

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Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.

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Are New Windows Worth It for an Off-Grid Home?

New windows are most compelling for solar-powered and off-grid homes when the existing windows are inefficient enough to create meaningful heating or cooling losses. Replacing relatively new, efficient windows solely to reduce solar demand may not provide enough improvement to justify the project. But old single-pane windows, drafts, deteriorating frames or poorly performing glass can place an unnecessary load on HVAC equipment.

For off-grid homes, reducing that load has an added advantage: it makes the available solar generation and battery storage go farther. Energy efficiency should also be approached as a whole-house project. Windows perform best alongside proper insulation, air sealing and efficient HVAC equipment rather than as a standalone solution.

For homeowners considering replacement, the useful question isn’t simply whether new windows save energy. It’s how much energy the existing windows are allowing the house to lose—and how much harder the solar and battery system has to work because of it.

Renewal by Andersen offers free in-home consultations to assess existing windows, discuss energy-efficient glass options and provide a project quote based on the home’s specific needs.

You’ll never guess what the new movie Musk is about…

And those who have seen it can attest that the 55-year-old businessman was not involved — though the documentary’s director says he had initially asked if Elon Musk wanted to be. And now, following the movie’s well-received Venice Film Festival premiere (with a five-minute standing ovation to cap it off), The Hollywood Reporter has revealed that Musk’s lawyer is threatening legal action.

Musk the film, meanwhile, currently holds an impressive 100% average critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which offers the following synopsis: “An incisive look behind the legend of Elon Musk, the world’s most heralded “inventor-entrepreneur” who has enormous influence on the world in which we all live.”

Negative backlash from Musk’s camp was expected following the festival premiere. THR indicates the billionaire hasn’t yet seen the movie about himself (similar to how Chris Hansen hasn’t yet watched the contentious Primetime, about his To Catch a Predator days).

But the SpaceX CEO has already taken to social media to lash out at the “hit piece” documentary, calling it “boring” and “a false film” in a series of X posts.

Gutless Gibney’s fatal flaw of fabricating a false film

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 9, 2026

Meanwhile, the tech mogul’s attorney Alex Spiro sent the Musk production a letter that accuses director Alex Gibney of misrepresenting facts about him, per THR. “You are on notice, before release, that the insinuation is false, that the material refuting it is public, and that you chose not to be told the rest,” Spiro, 43, wrote Jigsaw Productions on Sept. 3, according to the magazine.

Musk Features the Tesla CEO’s Ex

Following the Venice premiere, Ashley St. Clair spoke out about her decision not to sign her former partner’s alleged NDA agreement that would have granted her a whopping $40 million payday.

According to Variety, St. Clair, 28, who gave birth to Musk’s 13th child last year, revealed that her decision not to sign the NDA helped her speak about her ex in Musk. Find out more here.

Actress Alyson Hannigan lost 20 pounds while competing on season 32 of Dancing with the Stars. Rapper Nelly lost 11 pounds on the show in 2020. Country singer Lauren Alaina dropped nearly 25 pounds while competing the year before.

Most celebrities who’ve competed on DWTS have marveled at how the daily rehearsals have made them leaner, but one new star on the show — Jimmy Kimmel Live! sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez — just admitted to his boss that he’s actually gained weight while preparing for season 35.

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When Kimmel returned to his late night show on Tuesday, September 7, after his summer break, he asked for a DWTS update from Rodriguez, who’s been his sidekick for the last 23 years. Rodriguez was one of the first celebrities announced as part of the new season, and he’s been paired with dance pro Witney Carson, who won the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy last season.

“It’s going good, Jimmy,” Rodriguez told the comedian. “It’s a lot of work. My body hurts, but I think I’m doing good.”

After Rodriguez said that he and Carson practice five days a week for three hours at a time, Kimmel asked, “Have you lost any weight at all?” and Rodriguez replied, “Oh, unfortunately not.”

As the audience laughed, Kimmel said incredulously, “How is this possible? You know, usually the contestants will lose weight dancing three hours a day, five days a week!”

Rodriguez laughed, admitting, “But after the practice, I go eat right away. I’m so hungry.”

“Honestly, I feel like you’ve gained weight since I saw you last,” Kimmel told him, and Rodriguez confessed, “No, I did. Yeah. Like 10 pounds!”

Jimmy Kimmel Brings Out a Scale to Weigh His Sidekick

In the end, Kimmel flipped the situation into a positive, telling Rodriguez, “You know what? You’re achieving the impossible, Guillermo!” They then went on to celebrate their 4,000th show.

But the next night, on Wednesday, September 9, Kimmel turned Rodriguez’s weight into a show bit, bringing out a DWTS-themed scale to get his “baseline” weight. He noted that before Rodriguez started rehearsing for the competition, he had a medical check-up on June 23 and weighed 210 pounds.

As Rodriguez approached the scale he said it wasn’t quite “fair” because he’d “already had dinner and everything.” When he first stepped on the scale, it read 227 pounds, causing the crowd to gasp.

“No, no, no, that cannot be,” Rodriguez insisted, as he took off his blazer and then his belt, and even his pants. When he stepped on the scale again, he weighed 223 pounds.

When Kimmel announced that his buddy has gained 13 pounds, Rodriguez — standing in his boxers, a button-down shirt and a striped tie — flexed his arms and said, “It’s pure muscle!”

Rodriguez and his fellow contestants will begin competing on the DWTS two-night premiere on Tuesday, Sept. 15, and Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. ET both nights, on ABC and Disney+.

Jaclyn Smith is opening up about the heartbreaking reason she missed the funeral of her Charlie’s Angels co-star, Farrah Fawcett.

Smith, 80, is best known for her role as Kelly Garrett on the beloved TV series alongside Kate Jackson and Fawcett. In the years that followed the series, which ran from 1976 to 1981, she has tackled a variety of unique professional pursuits. She continued to act, with roles on The District and Shear Genius. Never one to slow down, she parlayed her career into the design world, becoming an entrepreneur with Kmart and then with the Home Shopping Channel. But in a new interview with Entertainment Weekly to promote her memoir, I Once Knew a Guy Named Charlie, Smith revealed the painful reason she wasn’t able to attend Fawcett’s funeral after the beloved star died of anal cancer in 2009 at age 62.

“I was in Houston at my mother’s hospital bedside when I learned that Farrah had passed,” Smith recalled. “Mom was okay at the time, and she insisted that I go to Farrah’s funeral. She asked her doctor to assure me it was fine for me to go, and he did.”

However, Smith was alerted as soon as she landed that all was not fine at home.

“Once the flight landed, I checked my messages. I’d received a call from Mom’s doctor that she’d taken a turn for the worse. Immediately, I turned around and flew right back to Houston,” she said.

Smith’s mother was on a respirator and went on to die just months after Fawcett, in August 2009, at 95. Smith called it “the most traumatic experience of my life” and an “unfathomable loss.”

Avalon / Getty Images

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Still Honoring Fawcett

 While Fawcett may have passed, her friends will never forget her legacy. Just last year, Smith attended the Farrah Fawcett Foundation 2025 Tex-Mex Fiesta at The Rustic in Dallas, Texas, alongside Morgan Fairchild, Donna Mills, and Alana Stewart.

Omar Vega / Getty Images

Fawcett’s Cancer Battle

Fawcett announced her diagnosis in a public statement, sharing her mission to overcome the battle.

“Throughout the journey of my life, I have maintained a strong faith in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. I deeply believe in one’s own positive will to overcome even the most daunting challenges,” Fawcett wrote, PEOPLE shared.

She continued, “I am resolutely strong and I am determined to bite the bullet and fight the fight while going through the next six weeks of cutting-edge, state-of-the-art treatment.”

Fawcett started the organization the following year. While she was given a clean bill of health in 2007, her cancer returned a few months later. Doctors told her it had metastasized to her liver, and she died in 2009.

In honor of Fawcett’s legacy, the organization raises funds for HPV-related cancer research, patient assistance funds during treatment, and prevention programs to help spread the word.

Related: Fans Can’t Believe ‘Charlie’s Angels’ Legend Jaclyn Smith Is 80 After Seeing These Stunning New Photos

50 years after its debut on Steely Dan‘s fifth record, The Royal Scam, the band’s 1976 song, “Kid Charlemagne,” is still getting recognition for its iconic 50-second guitar solo.

Collider recently included the Steely Dan song, which secured the number 82 Billboard Hot 100 spot the year The Royal Scam was released, in the publication’s ranking of “The 10 Most Perfect Guitar Solos in Classic Rock History.” “Kid Charlemagne,” co-penned by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, took home the list’s number 8 spot. Other classic rock songs with memorable guitar solos that were included on the Collider ranking are Deep Purple‘s 1972 track, “Highway Star,” 1968’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles, and Led Zeppelin‘s “Stairway to Heaven” from 1971.

Larry Carlton Discussed ‘Re-Learning’ the ‘Kid Charlemagne’ Guitar Solo in a 2025 Interview

The “Kid Charlemagne” guitar solo was famously performed by Larry Carlton, who wasn’t an official Steely Dan member, but rather collaborated and recorded with various musical artists. In a 2025 interview with Thinking About Guitar, Carlton shared that he never thought his contribution to “Kid Charlemagne” would have such a lasting impact.

“It’s such a blessing to have the world, to some degree, respond to something you play. You can’t plan it. And it’s humbling. It really is,” said Carlton, now 78, during the 2025 interview.

He also noted that he reunited on stage with Steely Dan for several shows in 2017. He said he prepared for the concerts by re-learning his “‘Kid Charlemagne’ solo note for note.”

He said that he “nailed the solo” for five nights in a row while the band performed at New York’s Beacon Theater. Carlton said, however, that he made some mistakes with the solo while playing in Los Angeles for the 2017 tour.

“We went to L.A. I didn’t nail the solo. It wasn’t right. I don’t know if I was a little nervous in L.A. or what happened. I wasn’t hearing right. And so the calendar section of the L.A. Times Sunday says, ‘Carlton Flubs Famous Solo.’ And it’s true. I didn’t nail it. I admit it,” said the guitarist with a laugh.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air premiered on NBC 36 years ago, on Sept. 10, 1990, and remains one of the decade’s most recognizable sitcoms.

Rotten Tomatoes even ranked the Will Smith-led comedy No. 7 on its list of The 100 Best ’90s TV Shows. It holds a healthy 91% Popcornmeter from fans.

As the show’s famous opening theme explained, Smith played a fictional version of himself who left West Philadelphia after getting into trouble and moved across the country to live with his wealthy aunt, uncle and cousins in Bel-Air. The move put Will under the same roof as the Banks family and set up six seasons of clashes, laughs and memorable family moments.

The comedy ran from 1990 to 1996 and helped launch Smith into Hollywood stardom, as fans connected with his sharp comedic timing, emotional depth, and the way he incorporated the authentic 1990s hip-hop culture into a mainstream television show. It also introduced some of the ’90s television’s most memorable characters, including Carlton, Hilary, Ashley, Geoffrey, Vivian and Uncle Phil, with whom he had a memorable dynamic with.

Will Smith as the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Getty

As fans know, Smith went on to build a major movie career while continuing to work as an actor and producer.

Alfonso Ribeiro traded his role as Will’s cousin, Carlton Banks, for a career that eventually took him into television hosting. He currently hosts America’s Funniest Home Videos and Dancing with the Stars, per IMDb.

Tatyana Ali stayed in front of the camera after years of playing Ashley Banks and has appeared in Hallmark holiday movies. Karyn Parsons took a different path after playing Hilary. She became a novelist and has produced animated films focused on history, per LADBible.

Joseph Marcell, who played the Banks family’s butler Geoffrey, continued working in theater and television after The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Born in Saint Lucia and raised in London, Marcell most recently appeared in the British TV series Mammoth.

Daphne Maxwell Reid, who played Vivian Banks, has explored several creative fields since leaving the sitcom. Her work includes photography, fashion design, and writing.

The cast has also kept James Avery’s memory close. Avery, who played Banks family patriarch Philip “Uncle Phil” Banks, passed away at age 68 in 2013 following complications from open-heart surgery.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air hasn’t disappeared from television culture, either. Peacock reimagined the sitcom as the drama Bel-Air, with a new cast taking on the familiar characters. Another project is in development around Hilary Banks, with Coco Jones attached to star and Smith involved as an executive producer.

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It’s hard to top a stud earring when it comes to accessories. It’s the earring that you can wear with almost anything in your closet, and they’re so small that you can sleep in them. They’re multifunctional and an essential for every jewelry collection.

You don’t always have to wear a traditional colorless stud, though. You can opt for something with a little more flavor, like these gorgeous Pinctore Sterling Silver 6mm Round Gemstone Stud Earrings that we found on ShopHQ. They feature delicate, pigmented gemstones that easily elevate any look with a touch of quiet luxury, and they’re just $40. That’s a great price for earrings that originally cost between $50 and $115.

Pinctore Sterling Silver Gemstone Stud Earrings, $40 (were $50) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

Originally retailing for between $50 and $115 depending on the color, they’re up to 65% off right now. The earrings are centered around a 6-millimeter round gemstone that sits on a sterling silver base. It’s plated in rhodium, which gives it a nice shine. The earrings are small, but not so small that it will be hard to see them in your ear. Think of them as a subtle splash of color.

Speaking of colors, the earrings are available in nine gemstone hues, ranging from bold red to purple to delicate light blue. Each one is a standout, with both neutral and vibrant options up for grabs to fit with any wardrobe. Some of the options even match up with monthly birthstones, like opal for October and yellow-orange citrine for November.

They originally came in 10 gemstone types, but the white topaz option is currently sold out. So, don’t wait to grab a pair if you’re eyeing it. They also weigh just 0.8 grams. They’re really lightweight, so you can easily wear them every day and even while sleeping. That’s a huge bonus if you hate fussy or clunky accessories.

Related: Turquoise Jewelry Is So on Trend, and We Found a Stunning ‘Everyday’ Necklace for Nearly 60% Off

Gemstone earrings will always be the accessory that adds just the right pop of color, and these stud earrings will be your new staple. Grab a pair for yourself or a loved one while they’re just $40.

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Fifty-six years ago, rock band The Ides of March released “Vehicle,” a song that became a major breakthrough moment for them, even though their lead singer was only 19 years old.

Released in March 1970 as the lead single and title track from their debut album, “Vehicle” quickly garnered significant public traction. Not even a month after its arrival, the song entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart. By May 23, it peaked at No. 2, charting for a total of 12 weeks on the tally.

Alongside its astounding chart dominance, “Vehicle” also performed swimmingly in terms of commercial success. In November 1972, the song was awarded a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1 million copies. At the time, the track famously made history as Warner Bros. Records’ fastest-selling single ever.

Jim Peterik is shown at his Burr Ridge, Illinois home Monday, June 28, 2010.

Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

Creating “Vehicle”

“Vehicle” was recorded by lead singer and guitarist Jim Peterik when he was just 19 years old. Peterik— who was born and raised in the Chicago suburb of Berwyn, Illinois—formed The Ides of March with his high-school friends in 1964. Only six years later, he would secure his first major career-defining success.

Years down the line, Peterik—who would later go on to co-found rock band Survivor and score a No. 1 hit with “Eye of the Tiger”—reflected on the song’s “it factor.” He noted that he wasn’t exactly sure what made the song as special as it was perceived:

“I didn’t know what made it work,” Peterik admitted in an interview. “The horn riff was a call to arms that everyone remembers, but I was 19 years old then, and it took many, many years for me to define what was really special about that song.”

Written by Peterik, “Vehicle” was inspired by his ex-girlfriend, who used him for rides to modeling school when he was 18. The song expressed his frustration about the situation, ultimately asking his partner to appreciate him for more than just transportation.

Over five decades after its release, “Vehicle” remains a major defining hit in the rock genre. In the digital era, the song has persevered on streaming platforms, garnering over 34.7 million streams on Spotify alone.

Related: 1976 Folk Rock Song, Written by Bob Dylan, Became a Breakup Favorite

If you’re patiently waiting to enjoy all the cozy aspects of fall, you’re not alone. As summer comes to a close and the world around us changes color, it’s easy to get caught up in the amber hues, crisp autumn air and warm and inviting scents of the season. 

Fortunately, your local Aldi knows just how to kick the season off on the right foot with exciting new arrivals like the Crofton Pie or Brie Bakers. Hitting stores on Sept. 16 with four harvest-themed designs, this charming fall lineup is the perfect way to invite the whimsy of the season into your home while simultaneously upgrading your cookware collection in the process.

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Crofton Pie or Brie Bakers, Acorn, $9.99 at Aldi

Aldi

As part of the grocer’s upcoming Aldi Finds, the Crofton Pie or Brie Bakers couldn’t have been teased at a more appropriate time. With summer weather departing and cooler temperatures on the horizon, this four-piece lineup brings its own harvest-inspired look to the table, complete with rich brown and gold hues, vibrant reds and playful touches like blueberry- and pumpkin-shaped lid knobs. 

At $10 a piece, you can expect to find acorn, apple, berry and pumpkin designs in stock, each made of durable ceramic and paired with a matching lid. Ideal for homemade pies and Brie, each one brings its own personality and table appeal, working just as well as a reliable vessel for baking your favorite desserts as it does as a display piece on a holiday tablescape.

Related: I Tried Trader Joe’s $8 Latin American Dessert, and Its Soft, Refreshing Bite Makes for a Sweet After-Dinner Treat

Crofton Pie or Brie Bakers, Berry, $9.99 at Aldi

Aldi

In terms of size and specifications, Aldi has yet to provide details in each product’s description, though we can make a few educated guesses based on similar Crofton items sold in the past. Since their name doesn’t suggest they are miniature, it’s reasonable to expect them to measure roughly 8 to 9 inches in diameter with a depth of about 1.5 to 2.5 inches. That would give you enough room for a smaller standard pie that’s still suitable for sharing, or a standard wheel of Brie.

It’s also worth noting that since they appear to be made of ceramic, you can most likely rely on them to be microwave-, dishwasher- and oven-safe. That said, you’ll want to check the product packaging before checkout just to be safe. 

Otherwise, get ready to have a hard time choosing which one to bring home. From realistic features like Acorn’s lifelike lid and Apple’s vibrant red hue to the golden lattice-inspired detailing and matching lids on both the Berry and Pumpkin options, there’s plenty of charm to go around no matter which one you choose.

Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled upon arrival on Wednesday, Sept. 16. With a fall refresh likely on everyone’s mind right now, you can bet these bakers will sell out fast. Take advantage of that $10 price tag and snag multiple at once, or secure one as a thoughtful holiday gift for a friend. While you’re at it, check out these 7 Aldi Pantry Staples that chefs actually keep in rotation at home.

Related: Costco’s $40 4-Piece Cast-Iron Set Packs Three Kitchen Staples Into One Nifty Design

As the Los Angeles Rams take on the San Francisco 49ers today in Australia, it’s a perfect time to look back at one of the most unexpected chapters in Rams history. Rosey Grier was a star of the legendary Fearsome Foursome, but his talents extended far beyond the football field. In 1968, the NFL and Rams legend recorded a soulful song written by Bobby Womack that was inspired by Grier’s friendship with Robert F. Kennedy.

Before Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald put NFL teams on the defensive, the Fearsome Foursome, Rosey Grier, Merlin Olsen, Lamar Lundy and Deacon Jones, formed one of the most dominant and feared defensive lines in NFL history. Grier played 11 seasons in the NFL, first with the New York Giants and then with the Rams, before an Achilles tendon injury ended his football career.

Rosey Grier’s Life Extended Far Beyond Football

Grier had already begun pursuing careers as an actor and singer while still playing football, but after his NFL career ended, his life took many remarkable turns. Grier became a close friend of Robert F. Kennedy and even worked as a bodyguard for Kennedy’s wife, Ethel Kennedy.

Grier was also present at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles on the night Kennedy was assassinated in 1968 and helped subdue gunman Sirhan Sirhan. His friendship with Kennedy had a lasting impact on him, and Grier later spoke about how Kennedy changed his outlook on life.

Related: 1976 NFL Draft Pick Made History as the First Player Ever Chosen by the Seahawks

The 1968 Song Was a Tribute to Bobby Kennedy

Deeply affected by Kennedy’s assassination, Grier recorded “People Make the World” in 1968, a tender tribute to his fallen friend. Written by Bobby Womack, the song became Grier’s only charting single, reaching No. 128 on the pop chart.

The song gives an unexpected glimpse into the man behind the football legend. Grier wasn’t simply a massive defensive lineman who terrorized quarterbacks as part of the Fearsome Foursome. He was also a singer, actor, community advocate and friend who found another way to express what Kennedy’s life and death meant to him.

Rosey Grier’s Legacy Goes Beyond the NFL @outoftheblank

#History #rfk #Lesson #Education #UntoldStory #history #blm

♬ original sound – out of the blank

While many NFL stars are defined by sacks, touchdowns or passing yards, Rosey Grier’s legacy extends far beyond the football field. Long before sports stars and celebrities used social media to share their lives and express their views, Grier used a song to create a deeply personal memorial to an American icon and a friend.

That’s what makes “People Make the World” such a fascinating piece of NFL history. It connects one of the most intimidating defensive players of his era to Bobby Womack, soul music and one of the most consequential political figures of the 1960s.

A Different Side of an NFL Legend @tonytheburner

Rosey Grier…The World’s most interesting man. This is an old video I wanted to share with a new audience. I enjoyed the story of Rosey. This video is for educational purposes as well as critical analysis. It was made using clips from different sources and was professionally edited. #roseygrier #losangelesrams #nflplayers #nflhighlights #fearsomefoursome

♬ original sound – Tony the Burner

“People Make the World” was released during an era known for some of Motown’s biggest hits, but it was a 300-pound defensive lineman who stepped behind a microphone to record a song about friendship, loss and hope.

With the Rams taking the field today, Grier’s story is a reminder that the lives of NFL legends don’t end when they leave the gridiron. Sometimes, the most surprising part of their legacy is what they did next.

Related: 1979 NFL Star Captured Houston’s Super Bowl Dreams With an Unexpected Disco Song

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