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Imagine kayaking in front of the London Bridge (yes, that London Bridge) while enjoying the heat of the Arizona desert. Back in the Midwest, your friends and family are still shoveling snow while you relax on the sunny shores of Lake Havasu City. This has been part of the appeal of this Arizona oasis since its creation in the 1960s, and it’s still as strong today.

Related: Couple Retired to Florida and Hated It— Here's the 'Half-Back' Move That Saved Their Retirement

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Life in the Desert

According to AARP, Arizona attracts around 18,000 new retirees every year. With an average of 300 days of sun, no mosquitoes, and a vibrant senior community, Lake Havasu City has become a magnet for retirees from across the country. Add the fact that the actual London Bridge, purchased in 1968 and relocated to Arizona, connects residents across the lake, and you have a place full of convenience and charm.

Life in Havasu is slow and relaxed. It centers around the lake and has a small-town feel. While there’s no large concert venue or major sports team, there are a lot of outdoor activities both on and off the lake year-round. For anyone looking for big-city amenities, Lake Havasu City is a few hours' drive from both Phoenix and Las Vegas. 

Dubbed “Arizona’s Playground,” Lake Havasu City was named one of the top 10 places in the Southwest to retire by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2025.

Living by the Numbers

Lake Havasu City is a dream for retirees. The average home price is higher than the national average, according to U.S. News, at $428,807, but it can vary widely depending on the amenities you want. Homes close to the lake, with boat and RV garages and lake docking privileges, will cost more than homes further into town.

Arizona has lower property taxes than the national average, 0.51% to the national 0.99%, and 2.5% tax on W-2 income, retirement withdrawals (401k, IRA, etc), pensions, and capital gains. The state doesn’t tax Social Security benefits. 

Just over 35% of the population is over the age of 65, making Lake Havasu City a place for retirees to connect and find community.

Related: The Social Security 'Penalty' for Working in Retirement Isn't What Most People Think It Is

Is Lake Havasu for You?

If beach living without the beach prices sounds like a dream for you, then the next step is to plan a trip to Lake Havasu City. You should go in both summer and winter to get a feel for the temperature and try to attend as many community events as possible. Drive across the London Bridge, take a day trip on a boat, and eat along the waterfront. 

California and Florida are expensive, but Lake Havasu City is a desert oasis. The hardest part about visiting this sunny city isn’t deciding to go, it’s deciding to leave. 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice.

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You don't need a full renovation to make your bathroom feel more polished. In fact, some of the most effective upgrades are also the simplest. Swapping out mismatched accessories, clearing clutter from the countertop and adding a few coordinated pieces can instantly make the space feel more intentional.

That's why savvy decorators often start with the vanity area. A well-styled countertop can help create the calm, organized look that many people associate with boutique hotels and luxury vacation rentals.

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IKEA's newest bathroom arrival makes that transformation surprisingly affordable. The retailer recently released the TVÅLSJÖN 3-Piece Bathroom Set, a stoneware collection that looks far more expensive than its $14.99 price tag suggests.

TVÅLSJÖN 3-Piece Bathroom Set, Blue, $14.99 at IKEA

IKEA

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The set includes a soap dispenser, a toothbrush holder and a matching tray. Available in blue or gray, the collection combines practical storage with a handcrafted appearance that feels right at home in modern farmhouse, traditional and coastal-inspired bathrooms.

IKEA uses a reactive glaze finish to give each piece slight variations in color and texture, creating a unique look that resembles artisan-made pottery.

The stoneware construction also helps elevate the overall appearance. While many budget-friendly bathroom accessories rely heavily on plastic, stoneware brings warmth, texture and a more substantial feel to everyday essentials.

Related: 8 Bathroom Trends Designers Say Are Outdated in 2026

The set is both beautiful and practical. The tray helps keep frequently used items organized while preventing soap residue and water from collecting directly on countertops. It can hold the soap dispenser and toothbrush holder together or be used separately for jewelry, hair ties or other small items that tend to disappear around the sink. A clean, organized bathroom counter is a must, and this set will help you achieve it.

For a boutique hotel-inspired bathroom on a budget, this small IKEA detail can make a big difference.

To build on the look, consider pairing the set with plush towels, warm lighting, a textured shower curtain or a small plant. Even a few simple upgrades can help create a more relaxing atmosphere.

At just $14.99, the TVÅLSJÖN bathroom set offers an easy and affordable way to refresh a bathroom without replacing major fixtures or furniture. This chic IKEA find has a handcrafted appearance, functional design and hotel-inspired style. What more could you want?

Related: IKEA Unveiled a New $50 Floor Lamp That's Basically 4 Setups in One

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Need a new go-to travel outfit for the airport? We've got you covered, and so does Amazon. Ahead of the summer season, we've collected the retailer's top comfy clothes that are breathable and budget-friendly. Some of our latest favorites include this wonderful $15 pajama set and these lightweight palazzo pants. Now, we're adding the Wiholl 2-Piece Matching Shorts Set to our cart, while it's up to 50% off. 

The set initially cost $30, but has been reduced to as low as $15 on the black colorway during a limited-time deal ahead of Prime Day. There are a total of 18 colors being sold, spanning from a beige striped pattern to a classic navy hue, with prices ranging from $18 to $25. The available sizes are between S and XXL, with customers saying the set is true to size and others saying it  runs small. If you want the set to be especially loose-fitting and more oversized, it's recommended to size up.

Wiholl 2-Piece Matching Shorts Set, From $15 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The set includes one T-shirt and shorts that fall around the mid-thigh area. The short-sleeve top features a crewneck and drop sleeves that are rolled up, while the shorts have a wide elastic waistband with a drawstring that you can adjust for comfort as needed. There are two deep side pockets on the shorts that you can place your phone into or other small miscellaneous essentials. 

Wiholl 2-Piece Matching Shorts Set, From $15 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The set is made of 60% polyester, 35% rayon, and 5% spandex, so it's machine washable. It's advised to wash the set in cold water and to avoid bleach to ensure that they're long-lasting. The beauty of this set is that you can sport it for nearly any casual occasion, or dress it up with accessories if you want to wear it all day (shoppers say it's "great" for vacation when they're walking frequently in hot weather). 

Related: Amazon's 'Wonderful' $15 Pajama Set Is 'Wicked Comfortable,' and Comes in 14 'Really Cute' Colors'

Other customers described the set as "adorable," "so soft," "comfy," "lightweight," and "perfect for summer time." Some reviewers love the fit and style so much that they ordered it in tons of colors to wear throughout the season. Pair it with fashionable sneakers, cool sunglasses, and an epic handbag, and you just perfected your street style. 

Shop More Deals

• Skechers Arch Fit Beverlee 2.0 Sandals, $45 (was $62) at Amazon
• Libin Linen Pants, $14 (was $20) at Amazon
• Vera Bradley Premium Blake Crossbody Bag, $46 (was $70) at Amazon

Your go-to travel outfit arrived at Amazon, and it's up to 50% off now. Shop this cozy two-piece lounge set for as low as $15!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Have you ever felt an unexpected connection to a particular animal? It could be because that animal’s spiritual wisdom is meant to guide you. Animal spirit guides are symbolic or spiritual helpers that appear in mythology, dreams, or spiritual traditions, providing wisdom, protection, and lessons to help navigate life's challenges. Just as astrology offers insight into our personalities and life paths, animal guides can help illuminate the strengths, instincts, and gifts associated with our birth month.

By exploring the zodiac signs connected to each month of the year, we can discover the animal whose energy most closely reflects those born during that time. See below for the spirit animal associated with your birth month and the qualities it shares with you.

Which Spirit Animal Matches Each Birth Month?

Check for your birth month.

January - Snow Leopard

Independent and resilient, those born in January align with the Snow Leopard's energy. Like Capricorn, this animal possesses patience and determination, especially when it comes to the task at hand, such as hunting for food to nourish its family. Like an independent Aquarius, the Snow Leopard values freedom and is unafraid to walk a path guided by the wisdom of its own intuition rather than following along with the pack. Snow Leopards are wise, self-sufficient, and strategic, just like people born in January.

February - Dolphin

Intelligent and intuitive, dolphins are a wonderful animal guide for those born in February. Whether you are an innovative Aquarius or an intuitive Pisces, you will benefit from the wisdom of dolphins’ community-oriented mindset. Dolphins are seen as guides, connectors between worlds, and healers, much like those born in February.

NEXT: Your Cosmically Aligned Starbucks Drink, Based on Birth Month

March - Swan

Those born in March are well represented by the swan. Elegant and striking, swans move through the world with a natural sense of grace that reflects Pisces’s appreciation for beauty, creativity, and imagination. At the same time, they possess a quiet confidence that mirrors Aries’ bold spirit. Swans don’t need to force their presence to be noticed—they simply are. Much like those born in March, they remind us that sensitivity and self-assurance can coexist.

April - Falcon

Those born in April are focused, determined, and purposeful, just like the falcon. Known for their speed and precision, falcons move with confidence and remain focused on their end goal, ensuring they reach their destination. This mirrors Aries’ ambition and desire to take action as well as Taurus’s patience and steady approach to achieving their goals. Like the falcon, both zodiac signs understand the value of timing, the importance of trusting their instincts, and how to properly channel their energy in order to accomplish what they set out to do.

RELATED:

May - Stag

People born in May are guided by the wisdom of the stag. Stags are highly observant and very connected to their surroundings. Much like grounded Taurus and curious Gemini, stags also wish to learn, explore, and understand their world while also appreciating the comfort of what they already know. Understanding the delicate balance between standing their ground and venturing into new territory allows them to navigate life with both stability and adaptability.

June - Butterfly

Those born in June are well represented by the butterfly. Butterflies symbolize transformation, change, and the willingness to embrace new experiences, much like the strengths of both Geminis and Cancers. Gemini is curious, adaptable, and eager to learn, while Cancer is sensitive and highly attuned to even subtle shifts in emotions and environments. Like the butterfly, people born in June are interested in personal growth and evolving as they discover new aspects of themselves throughout life’s many seasons.

July - Moon Jellyfish

The moon jellyfish is a wonderful guide for those born in July. Moved by the ocean’s currents, they go with the flow, which reflects the intuitive nature of Cancer and the magnetism of Leo. Moon jellyfish cannot force their way through the water, yet their powerful, beautiful presence is impossible to ignore. Like people born in July, moon jellyfish possess a rare combination of sensitivity and presence, drawing others towards them without ever needing to force attention.

August - Lion

People born in August are guided by the energy of the lion. Lions embody confidence, leadership, creativity, and courage, but they are also protective, loyal, and community-oriented. Like charismatic Leo and service-minded Virgo, both signs born this month understand the value of leadership and loyalty while being part of and protecting the pack.

RELATE?: Discover Your Guardian Angel, Based on Your Birth Date

September - Honeybee

Those born in September align with the energy of the honeybee. Few animals work as hard or as well together as the honeybee! Much like diligent Virgo’s work ethic and fair-minded Libra’s commitment to harmony, both signs are concerned with the well-being of the collective, similarly to the function of a hive. Bees, like those born in September, understand that their individual efforts contribute to something far larger and more satisfying when the focus is on cooperation in their relationships rather than on their own needs alone. 

October - Raven

People born in October benefit from the guidance of the raven. Perhaps the most mysterious of birds, ravens are associated with transformation, magic, and spiritual messengers who can travel between the known and unknown worlds. Libras have the ability to see multiple perspectives at once, similarly to how ravens can see beyond the surface of what’s visible. Scorpio’s fascination with depth, adaptability, and the fearless ease of facing change relates to the energy of ravens as well. 

November - Wolf

Those born in November are guided by the energy of the wolf. Wolves have a steadfast sense of loyalty to their pack, yet also have an untamed appetite for freedom. Both secretive Scorpios and adventurous Sagittariuses align with the wolf’s primal instincts, as Scorpios are notoriously protective of their inner circle (once someone is trusted, a Scorpio's loyalty is for life), while Sagittariuses align with their nomadic, boundary-pushing, and truth-seeking spirit. Both signs connect to the wolf’s ability to trust one’s instincts.

MORE: Your Perfect Historical Fiction Read, Based on Your Birth Month

December - Wild Horse

Those born in December are inspired by the energy of wild horses. They are powerful, free- spirited, and impossible to tame. Embodying endurance, independence, and the speed of forward momentum, the wild horse aligns with Sagittarius’s love of exploration and Capricorn’s determination to pursue long-term goals. Like the wild horse, those born in December possess both an adventurous spirit and the perseverance needed to follow their chosen path.

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When my son was little, getting dressed was simple. All of his clothes were part of one of those children's clothing systems where every top matched every bottom. It gave him a sense of independence to be able to grab a shirt, pull out a pair of shorts or pants, and somehow look coordinated without me ever having to hold my breath as we walked out the door, and I knew that he would look just as good as if I had laid his clothes out for him.

One day, I looked at the overstuffed large suitcase and the suitcase half full of never-worn clean clothes I was returning home with from one of the 20+ cruises I was taking each year, and it hit me. Packing for a cruise should work the same way that I had set my toddler up for success.

Twins play with a vintage toy and attempt to ride it together.

Jill Lehmann Photography/ Getty Images

I no longer wanted to spend precious packing or vacation time standing in front of a closet, wondering what goes with what. I no longer felt that I needed to pack "just in case" outfits that never leave the suitcase. And I was definitely tired of dragging around a giant bag filled with clothes that only work with one specific pair of shoes or a dress that I wore one time over a 7-day cruise.

I came home and immediately went through my closet and laid everything out on the bed and put together a cruise wardrobe that I now take with me on every cruise that I take.

The result? I can pack an entire seven-day Caribbean cruise wardrobe in a carry-on and still have enough options to feel like I'm wearing something different every day.

Here's exactly how I do it.

Related: How I Pack for a 5-Day Carnival Cruise With a Single Carry-On

Start With One Color Story

The secret isn't the number of clothes. It's the color palette. When every piece belongs to the same family, suddenly everything becomes interchangeable. It doesn't have to be as basic as mine is. Just find your favorite three colors that go together and create a wardrobe that can mix and match.

Some of my favorite color combinations include:

Zipporah Sandler

Black, Brown and White

This is my personal favorite because it feels classic, polished and effortless.

• Black sundress (to be worn along with the striped top, the dressy top, or with a jacket)
• Button-up dress (another hard-working multi-use piece that you'll love)
• White tee
• Brown off-the-shoulder tee
• Slimmer Cut Black pants (from dressed up with the striped top or dressed down with the white tee) OR Wide Pants (can look flowy for evening wear with a striped shirt or worn comfortably exploring a port)—I bring gray because it works with the black and white.
• Black skort
• White shorts
• Black-and-white striped top.
• Jacket (optional—denim if you like to be more casual, or a black or white blazer).

Everything works together.

Navy, White and Tan

This one always feels a little nautical, which is perfect for cruising. Think navy pants, white tops, a tan cardigan and metallic sandals.

Olive, Cream and Camel

This is a beautiful neutral palette that works especially well for fall cruises.

Gray, White and Soft Blue or a Dusty Rose/Pink

Fresh, sophisticated and easy to accessorize. The key is choosing colors that all play nicely together, so you never have to think about matching.

Related: Curate a Capsule Wardrobe With These Expert-Approved Pieces—Shop Essentials Starting at $7

My 7-Day Carry-On Capsule

This entire wardrobe fits into a standard carry-on suitcase.

Dresses

One black sleeveless sundress: This is the hardest-working item in the suitcase. You can wear it alone during the day or add a striped shirt tied at the waist for lunch. Layer a cardigan or jacket over it for dinner, or add a lightweight topper or jacket for evening shows. I like to dress it up with bold jewelry and metallic sandals for formal night. I've worn the same black sundress four different ways on a single cruise, and nobody noticed.

ZESICA Women's 2026 Summer Sleeveless Square Neck Sundress Check Price

One button-up dress: This is going to be a multi-use dress, topper, and beach or pool cover-up.

utcoco Women's 2026 Shirt Dress Casual Lapel 3/4 Sleeve Button Down Check Price Tops

Two tees: I go back and forth depending upon the style of the cruise (is it more casual or a little more upscale). I always bring one white and one striped or patterned. Stripes just happen to be a signature style for me, so I always bring at least one striped shirt. Always choose what makes you FEEL good. Patterns, stripes or solids, it doesn't matter since your base layers will be solid..

Quince Women's Cotton Modal Crew Neck T-Shirt in Cotton Modal Check Price

One dressier top: Something that can work for dinner, maybe a silky blouse or a knit shell with a little sparkle. This is optional and tend to just bring a no-wrinkle off-the-shoulder brown tee that I can use with my skirt or slacks. I vary my carry on between this top and the long jersey dress. Some people prefer separates over dresses.

Related:Meghan Markle’s Airy White Button-Down Is the Perfect Vacation Top

Bottoms

One white skirt: Cruise ships and white bottoms just belong together (especially those that have white night parties - just pair it with your white tee for the party).

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One pair of black ankle pants: These are perfect for dinners as they can be dressed up with your button-down or sparkly shirt, worn with a tee for excursions, and on travel days.

Quince Women's Ultra-Stretch Ponte Pintuck Ankle Pants Check Price

One pair of shorts and one skort: Depending on your comfort level and destination. I prefer a skort as it doubles as a skirt (no one is the wiser) and I have an extra dinner outfit for those dining rooms that don't allow shorts at night. I bring one of each, a pair of shorts and a skort (but, to be truthful, the shorts don't get worn as often because I love a soft pull-on skort for comfort better).

Women's Ultra-Form Tennis Skort in Black Check Price Layers

One lightweight cardigan: Cruise ships can be surprisingly chilly. It's because, at least in the Caribbean, they are in humid weather and need to keep a lot of people comfortable. So dining rooms, the casino, theater, lounges, and even walking through the halls can be chilly. You'll be glad you took one. I often substitute this with a cute sweatshirt.

Pashmina or Shawl: Another double-duty piece, as this can dress up your sundress, be wrapped around your waist like a cummerbund, tied like a scarf, or worn over a bathing suit. But most of all, this should be your dash of color to really stand out if you choose to wear neutrals.

RIIQIICHY Scarfs for Women Winter Blue Pashmina Shawls and Wraps for Evening Dresses Check Price Swimwear

One Swimsuit: Choose one you genuinely love wearing and not one you're trying to hide inside, or you won't spend that precious hot tub and pool time that you came for. It's just not worth it. One of the most important things I've learned at 72 is that comfort beats trendy every single time.

FOLUNSI Womens One Piece Swimsuits Tummy Control Bathing Suit Check Price

Optional: One cover-up: I wear my button-up dress as a cover-up or wrap my pashmina around my waist. I've also been known to wear the white tee on top and the pashmina at the bottom to the beach or pool.

Shoes

This is where most people get into trouble. Shoes take up space. Lots of space. For a seven-day cruise, I bring three pairs.

Pair One: Comfortable Walking Sneakers: These are non-negotiable. Whether you're exploring a European port, walking around Alaska, or spending a day in Nassau, your feet need support. Fashion is fun. Pain is not. I look for sneakers that work with dresses as well as pants. A clean white sneaker is usually my first choice.

Vionic Womens Winny Sneaker White Leather Check Price

Pair Two: Metallic Sandals Gold or silver: Choose whichever matches most of your jewelry. Metallic sandals act almost like a neutral. They work with black. They work with navy. They work with prints. They work for dinner. They work for poolside cocktails. They work for dress-up nights. One pair can handle almost every evening event on the ship.

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Pair Three: Ballet Flats: Only if space allows. At 72, I have learned that comfort is queen. Sometimes I want something a little more polished than a sneaker and a little more supportive than a sandal. My favorites are an old pair of simple spectator-style ballet flats that fill that gap beautifully. They're lightweight. They pack easily. And they're perfect for travel days.

Italian Leather Cap-Toe Ballet Flat in Bone/Black Check Price

HINT: Whichever are the largest or heaviest are the ones you'll wear on embarkation and deparkation day for a lighter suitcase

Related: How I Pack for a 7-Day Europe Trip With a Single Carry-On

Undergarments That Work

Nobody talks enough about the foundation pieces. But personally, these are the most important pieces because they're the difference between whether that jersey dress looks good on you or if it doesn't fit correctly.

Convertible Bra: If you're only bringing one bra, make it a good convertible one. Look for straps that can be worn with all of your tops and dresses. I like the type with the removable straps so I can wear it cross-backed, one-shoulder, and strapless in addition to traditional. Also, they tend to sit wider on the shoulders for boatneck or slash shirts (my striped shirts are boatneck, so it's perfect). One bra that performs multiple jobs saves a surprising amount of packing space.

Plusexy Women's Push Up Strapless Bra Thick Padded Underwire Convertible Multiway Bras Nude 38D Check Price

Underwear: For a seven-day cruise, I usually pack seven pairs of underwear, two bras—one convertible bra and one comfy bra. You can always wash one in the sink and leave it to dry overnight in the shower if you have two of them. If you don't want homework on vacation, feel free to overpack these (they don't take up that much room).

Accessories Do the Heavy Lifting

The easiest way to make a capsule wardrobe feel larger is with your accessories. I pack them in a jewelry roll inside of my makeup case (or if I'm walking on with a larger tote handback, I just put them in there.) They take up very little room. I'll usually wear a small pair of simple earrings that go with everything, and bring one pair of statement earrings and a statement necklace.

Personally, I don't wear bracelets, but if you do, you're probably going to be wearing them on embarkation day anyway. I bring only one handbag, a black crossbody that works for excursions, evenings and around the ship. If you want a tote as well, you can wear it on embarkation day or use one that folds up into a small square.

Quince Women's Italian Leather Handwoven Convertible Crossbody Check Price

That's it.

A black dress with sneakers feels casual. The same black dress with metallic sandals and a statement necklace feels dinner-ready.

What I Actually Wear on a 7-Day Cruise

Here's how it all comes together.

Day One Travel outfit

Black pants, striped top and sneakers.

Day Two

Skort and white tee with the button-down shirt dress worn open, and sandals

Day Three

Black sundress and sneakers, add the striped shirt for the evening.

Day Four

Shorts and an off-the-shoulder brown tee with sneakers. For formal night, swap out the shorts for the white skirt and metallic sandals.

Day Five

Black sundress with button-up shirtdress worn open with metallic sandals.

Day Six

Black slacks and a white tee with statement jewelry and metallic sandals.

Day Seven

White shorts and a white shirt, with ballet flats and simple jewelry for a classic look

This wardrobe can be used for a 7-day trip with additional combos using the same outfits for 2 weeks (and maybe more).

Related - How I Pack for a 7-Day Universal Studios Trip With a Single Carry-On

Why This Works Better

I used to pack for the way I thought that I was "supposed" to look. I never felt comfortable or put together, and frankly, it wasn't me. I don't need six-inch heels at 72 years old. Those cocktail dresses came off immediately after dinner for something more comfy.

The day I realized that my toddler had a better sense of what dressing was about than I did was that day that I realized that the real me wanted outfits that fit who I am, and that meant comfortable shoes, layers for warmth (or cooling), a lot of looks without the headaches and that I didn't want to have to go shopping each time I went on a cruise because I thought that I needed something new.

Today, I pack for myself, a 72-year-old cruise expert who'd rather explore ports and destinations in comfort. I'd rather wrap a shawl around my shoulders on the deck and watch the sunset. I want to walk the promenade in sneakers and people-watch. And yes, I still want to look polished. The funny thing is that once I started packing like a toddler, I got exactly what I wanted all along. And just like those childhood outfits my son used to pull together all by himself, I can reach into my suitcase, grab any top and any bottom, and know I'm ready for whatever the day brings.

Related: 10 Best Wine Region Resorts for Women Over 50, According to Experts

On this day 44 years ago, Elvis Presley fans were beginning to line up in front of 3764 Elvis Presley Blvd in Memphis, Tennessee. With their $5 in hand, they were about to experience Graceland Mansion, the late "King's" home, in a way that they'd only dreamed of before.

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Nowadays, Frank Sinatra's Twin Palms Estate, Prince's Paisley Park, and Jimi Hendrix's Flat are just a few musicians' homes that have been opened to the public since their owners died. But in 1982, the idea of touring your idol's home was mostly unheard of, especially for someone as famous and beloved as Presley.

Saving the Estate from Financial Ruin View this post on Instagram

By the time Graceland opened, Presley had been dead for nearly five years. The estate had passed to his father, Vernon Presley, before Priscilla Presley became trustee when Vernon died two years later. While, ideally, Elvis may have envisioned sharing his life with the world after he was gone, the doors opening had much more to do with money.

"I quickly learned that Graceland was in serious trouble," Priscilla wrote in her memoir, Softly, As I Leave You: Life After Elvis. "The care of the grounds, the staff salaries, the animals requiring care -- all were ongoing expenses. With no funds coming in, the upkeep was unsustainable."

She noted that when Vernon died, there was still $500,000 left of Lisa Marie Presley's inheritance. That quickly disappeared as Priscilla tried to keep up with expenses. With some help from businessman Morgan Maxfield and then Jack Soden, she came up with a plan to open Graceland to the public.

"The opening was a huge success," she wrote. "Within a month, we were able to pay back our expenses and make a profit. During my time as a trustee, the value of Graceland rose to over $100 million."

The King’s Lasting Kingdom

Today, Graceland stands as the second-most-visited home in the United States, outpaced only by the White House. More than 500,000 people flock to Memphis every year to step inside the King’s home -- a pilgrimage that comes with a price tag, ranging from an $85 base ticket to upwards of $260 for total access.

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While Priscilla notes that the mansion itself remains largely frozen in time, the surrounding grounds have evolved to meet the demands of modern fandom, now featuring the sprawling 450-room Guest House at Graceland hotel. Decades after his passing, Presley’s home remains a booming, living monument to a legacy that refuses to fade.

These days, there's seemingly countless ways you can listen to and discover great music: traditional radio airwaves, movie soundtracks, social media platforms, digital music services and so on. That makes the whole song landscape far less linear than in the past and gives older songs plenty of opportunities to pop up in surprising ways, whether revived as a viral TikTok song, used in an unexpected sample or featured as a big background tune in a popular show or film.

These are those such sleeper-hit songs, ones that didn't see initial cultural and commercial success when they were released but gained major recognition later on. And they really run the gamut of pop music, from Elvis Presley ballads to Fleetwood Mac break-up anthems to Taylor Swift bops. Here are 15 super-popular songs that became hits years after they came out.

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1. “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” - Elvis Presley

Several of Elvis Presley's biggest hits were actually written by or for other artists, from "Hound Dog" (first recorded by Big Mama Thornton) to "Blue Suede Shoes" (originally sung by Carl Perkins). His chart-topping 1960 pop ballad “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” was no exception—however, what was unusual is that the track had been originally released nearly four decades earlier.

Yes, the now-famous standard was written by Roy Turk and Lou Handman all the way back in 1926, with the first recording dropping a year later. And though it would be covered by many musical artists over the years, the ballad didn't become a mega-success until The King got a hold of it, with his version reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100.

2. "Baby Blue" - Badfinger

One of the greatest TV endings of all time turned a melodic early-70s rock song into a true television anthem—we're talking, of course, about Breaking Badand that Badfinger-soundtracked goodbye to the show's antihero for the ages, Walter White (Bryan Cranston).

Decade-old spoiler ahead, but the series finale of the acclaimed AMC crime drama saw the science teacher-turned-drug kingpin succumb to his injuries on the floor of that neo-Nazi meth lab while Badfinger's melodic 1972 number "Baby Blue" plays in the background. Already a respected rock classic, the throwback song experienced a massive cultural resurgence four decades after its initial release thanks to that memorable music cue, with "Baby Blue" re-entering the global charts and claiming the top spot on Billboard's Hot Rock Songs list.

Related: 1977 Rock Classic Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 49 Years Later

3. "Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)" - Kate Bush

English singer-songwriter Kate Bush was an icon of the late 1970s and early '80s thanks to hit songs like "Babooshka," "The Man with the Child in His Eyes," "Cloudbusting," "Don't Give Up" and "Wuthering Heights" but arguably her most iconic track is "Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God," the lead single from the star's fifth studio album, 1985's Hounds of Love.

The sweeping song was popular among its initial release—it hit No. 30 on the US Billboard Hot 100—but it took on a whole new life when it was featured in season four of the Netflixsci-fi juggernaut Stranger Things, introducing the haunting masterpiece to a whole new generation of fans in 2022. Boosted by that streaming attention, "Running Up That Hill" reached number one in eight countries and reached a billion streams on Spotify 37 years after its debut.

“I thought the track would get some attention, but I never imagined it would be anything like this. It’s so exciting—and quite shocking really, isn’t it? The whole world’s gone mad," Bush said of the song's renewed attention in a June 2022 interview on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour.

Related: 1983 Iconic Pop Hit Originally Written for ToTo is Climbing the Charts Again 43 Years Later

4. "Silver Springs" - Fleetwood Mac

British-American band Fleetwood Mac—most famously comprised of Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks, Lindsay Buckingham, John McVie and the late, great Christine McVie—aren't strangers to seeing a song experience a later resurgence thanks to social media, what with their legendary track "Dreams" getting reborn via a viral 2020 video featuring a skateboarder drinking Ocean Spray. But an even more surprising renaissance happened years earlier with a far less popular song: "Silver Springs."

Originally written by Stevie Nicks during the Rumours era, “Silver Springs” was famously left off the band’s landmark 1977 album, much to the singer's chagrin. However, the breakup anthem would take on icon status two decades after its creation, during the band's 1997 reunion concert, The Dance. The taped performance is famed for its smoldering passion and emotional intensity, with Nicks delivering the ballad's heated lyrics ("You'll never get away from the sound of the woman that loved you") directly at Buckingham, her bandmate and onetime lover.

Related: 1975 Rock Classic Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 51 Years Later

5. "Murder on the Dancefloor" - Sophie Ellis-Bextor

British singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor found global fame with her 2001 disco-pop smash "Murder on the Dancefloor," which peaked at number two on the UK singles chart and became a top 10 hit worldwide. However, the early-aughts groove would re-enter global consciousness two full decades after it first dropped courtesy of a little movie called Saltburn.

One of the best films of 2023, Emerald Fennell's comedy-thriller features a very memorable (and very naked) dance number performed by lead actor Barry Keoghan set to Ellis-Bextor's signature hit, a viral scene that propelled the song back onto the charts: Twenty-three years after its debut, "Murder on the Dancefloor" again reached number two on the UK singles chart and also entered the US Billboard Hot 100 for the very first time.

6. “Three Little Birds" - Bob Marley

It might seem surprising how much of a sunny favorite it's been for decades, but “Three Little Birds”—released by Bob Marley and the Wailers on their 1977 album Exodus and later as a single in 1980—actually didn't chart on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time of its original release.

However, the optimistic reggae track eventually found official chart success three decades later off the back of a massively popular cover version by then-eight-year-old British singer Connie Talbot, a notable Britain's Got Talent contestant who included the song on her 2008 debut album Over the Rainbow. Colbat's sweet rendition went on to reach No. 1 on the Hot Singles Sales rankings.

Related: He Died 45 Years Ago Today — and His Best-Selling Album Came Out After He Was Gone

7. "Bohemian Rhapsody" - Queen

Frankly, we can't remember a time when Queen's rock-opera masterpiece "Bohemian Rhapsody" wasn't being passionately screamed along to in sports stadiums and karaoke bars the world over. The six-minute opus, which was written by frontman Freddie Mercury and was released as the lead single from the band’s1975 album A Night at the Opera, was an unlikely No. 1 hit, spending nine consecutive weeks at the top of the British charts upon its release.

But that was far from the song's only surge—in fact, "Bohemian Rhapsody" reached a rare achievement, charting across three decades. The second bout of popularity occurred in the early 1990s, boosted by the tragic death of Mercury to AIDS-related pneumonia in November 1991 and the infamous headbanging scene in 1992's Wayne's World. It would break into the charts yet again following the 2018 release of the Oscar-winning Freddie Mercury biopic, Bohemian Rhapsody.

Related: 1970 Rock Classic Lasting Nearly Seven Minutes Became a Breakthrough Hit, Despite Never Reaching No. 1

8. “Proclamation” - Gentle Giant

Fans of the British progressive rock band Gentle Giant had already known and loved the group's song "Proclamation"—the first track on their sixth studio album, 1974's The Power and the Glory—long before Travis Scott sampled the gorgeous rock hit nearly 50 years after its release.

The rapper opens his 2023 single "HYAENA" with a vocal sample from the "Gentle Giant" song, an unexpected crossover that not only introduced the band to a legion of new fans but also helped drive the original "Proclamation" up the Billboard Hot 100 chart to No. 14.

“We are honored by the inclusion of our 1974 song ‘Proclamation’ in the intro track ‘Hyaena’ to Travis Scott’s new album Utopia," the band released in a statement. "We are always amazed how Gentle Giant’s music continues to inspire and evolve across diverse genres and generations, particularly within the hip-hop community.”

9. "Pink Pony Club" - Chappell Roan

Some breakthrough songs take over the pop-culture zeitgeist instantly: "...Baby One More Time," "Call Me Maybe," "Old Town Road" and what have you. But Chappell Roan's pop hit "Pink Pony Club" took several years before it made significant chart impact—in fact, it took five years after its initial release in April 2020 for the modern queer anthem to grow into a global phenomenon following a memorable performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, at which Roan took home the coveted Best New Artist statuette.

The song eventually hit No. 1 on the US Billboard Pop Airplay chart and was certified five-time platinum in the United States, with everyone from Kelly Clarksonto GWAR to Keith Urbanaffectionately offering up their own cover versions.

10. “Everytime You Go Away” - Paul Young

Hall & Oates had plenty of chart-topping hits, including “Rich Girl,” “Sara Smile,” “You Make My Dreams,” “Kiss on My List,” and “Private Eyes,” but surprisingly, “Everytime You Go Away”—the Daryl Hall-penned pop-soul ballad originally appeared on the band's 1980 studio album Voices—wasn't a part of that illustrious bunch. In fact, the song wasn't even released as a single by the band.

However, it was half a decade later when British soul singer Paul Young covered the tune for his 1985 studio record The Secret of Association and turned it into a number one hit, with the ballad topping the Billboard Hot 100 on July 27 and staying there for one week. That success was a surprise even to Young: “I almost passed on the song because I was getting into the relatively darker material (darker than my first CD) that was making up the album,” the singer explained in a 2011 interview with the Kickin’ It Old School blog.

Related: Iconic ’70s Duo’s Classic Album Comes Roaring Back on the Music Charts Decades Later

11.  "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" - Brenda Lee

Given their inherently annual nature, we're used to Christmas songs coming back into popularity year after year, and Brenda Lee's iconic holiday classic "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"—which, fun fact, the American singer recorded when she was only 13 years old—is one such recurring yuletide favorite.

However, the festive number saw quite a resurgence in 2023 when Lee released an official music video for the song and subsequently took over the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Lee's third number-one single and making Lee the oldest artist ever to top the Hot 100 at age 78.

Related: 44 Years Ago, Willie Nelson Took a Song From a Future Christmas Queen to No. 1

12. “Red Red Wine” - UB40

English reggae band UB40 struck chart gold with “Red Red Wine,” which was featured on the group's 1983 album Labor of Love and became a massive international hit, topping the UK Singles Chart in the year of its release. It went No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 five years later after UB40 performed the single at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert in June 1988.

That's quite a departure from where "Red Red Wine" originated: It is actually a cover of a 1967 Neil Diamond song, a folksy ballad that only peaked at No. 67 on the Billboard 100 list in April 1968 upon its release.

13. “Truth Hurts” - Lizzo

Lizzo has had a tumultuous career as of late, but the rapper-singer had a strong run of hits there for a minute, including self-love anthems "Good as Hell" and "Juice." Her first major hit, though, was "Truth Hurts," a sleeper hit of a song that didn't even chart upon its original release in 2017.

It would actually be two whole years later—thanks to TikTok virality, a memorable soundtrack moment in the Netflix rom-com Someone Great and the singer's own standout performance at the MTV Video Music Awards—that "Truth Hurts reached the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 record chart when it was re-released as a radio single in March 2019.

“We’re number 1. This is a [win] for all of us. Anybody ever felt like they voice wasn’t heard. Anybody who felt like they weren’t good enough. You are. We are. Champions,” Lizzo celebrated the much-awaited moment on Instagram.

14. "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" - The Proclaimers

Scottish alt-rock duo The Proclaimers, a.k.a. twin brothers CraigandCharlie Reid, crafted an inescapable earworm with "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)," the jaunty lead single from their sophomore album, 1988's Sunshine on Leith.

When it was first released, the sing-along favorite ("But IIIIIIII would walk five hundred miles / And IIIIIII would walk five hundred more") was predominantly a success in its native UK—where it reached No. 11 on the singles charts—as well as Australia. However, the folksy tune got way more attention after it was featured in theJohnny Depp-led romantic comedy Benny & Joon in April 1993. That summer, “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” reached the top three on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Related: 18 Weird Songs That Shouldn’t Have Hit No. 1 (But Did)

15. "Cruel Summer" - Taylor Swift

It may seem unlikely for a Taylor Swift song not to be a major, unavoidable hit straight out of the gate, but "Cruel Summer" wasn't immediately a mainstream standout when the pop icon released her 2019 record, Lover. Instead, the album-only track existed largely as a favorite of diehard Swifties—that is, until the Eras Tour.

When Swift began performing the song as the big opener of her record-breaking global tour, that sheer exposure prompted a massive streaming spike. Four years after its initial drop, "Cruel Summer" was released as a radio single in June 2023 in response to that viral demand and officially claimed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in October of that year. More like cool summer, right?

Next,The 81 Best Songs of Summer We Listen to on Repeat Year After Year

There's a version of the Florida Keys that everyone knows: the sunset crowds gathering at Mallory Square, the Duval Street mythology and the rowdy, anything-goes energy that has long defined the destination. But for those willing to look beyond the obvious spots, the islands look quite different today. A wave of upgraded resorts and high-end restaurant openings are showing off a highly sophisticated side of the region. Driven by major multi-million dollar property investments, the destination is quietly transforming traveler expectations of what a tropical escape can be. According to local hospitality experts, a perfect storm of calmer seasonal seas, below-average storm predictions and highly curated resort programming means there has never been a better time to experience a more refined side of the islands while still enjoying their timeless charm. Here's your insider's guide to navigating the elevated, sophisticated side of Key West and its surrounding waters this summer.

Related: The 27 Best Florida Resorts, From Disney to Key West

The Luxury Resort Revolution

Isla Bella Beach Resort

The transformation of the Keys into a top-tier powerhouse didn't happen overnight, and its origin story might surprise returning visitors. “The catalyst for most dramatic changes in the Florida Keys is hurricanes," explains Justin Nels, Managing Director for Isla Bella Beach Resort. "Since hurricane Irma in 2017, visitors returning after several years are often surprised to find elevated culinary programs, wellness experiences, contemporary coastal design and highly curated guest experiences."

Travelers today are looking for more than just the classic, laid-back inn or basic fishing lodge experience typical of old-school Key West. Nels notes that "today’s luxury resorts in the Keys are blending relaxed island culture with sophisticated design, chef-driven dining, craft cocktail programs and experience-focused programming." At properties like Isla Bella, which features nearly a mile of unexpected waterfront and the newly debuted SephoraSummer Club, or The Perry Hotel & Marina, which recently upgraded its guest experience with Pool Veranda rooms opening directly to the resort pool, the focus is on a highly considered way to experience the islands. Nels adds, "guests are particularly attracted to the spacious oceanfront accommodations, elevated pool and beach experiences... wellness offerings such as complimentary yoga three times a week and locally inspired food and beverage concepts that offer a more modern twist on the traditional Keys experience.”

Related: This Serene Florida Beach Is One of the Best in the Country for a '90s-Style Digital Detox

A Highly Polished, Chef-Driven Dining Scene

Nick Doll

As the hospitality scene has evolved, the local culinary landscape has undergone an equally impressive glow-up, trading basic fried fish baskets for highly curated, market-inspired gastronomy. “The Keys’ dining scene has become much more polished in recent years, with many restaurants focusing on fresh local seafood, inventive cocktails and elevated waterfront dining experiences," Nels says. "Standout destinations include Mahina, Little Pearl, Latitudes and Salt + Ash, all of which combine refined cuisine with the relaxed atmosphere the Keys are known for.”

This upscale shift is also taking over hotel dining, where generic buffets are a thing of the past. Establishments are working closely with food and beverage purveyors to develop unique dishes and drinks driven by market-inspired, locally sourced ingredients, resulting in monthly curated, chef-driven tasting menus and specialty dinners. For travelers looking to mix these refined options with a few authentic local favorites, a mix of fresh new additions like Atlas Izakaya, Conchiglia and Fishwife are sharing the spotlight with standing hidden gems like Roostica, Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen, 915 and Café Marquesa to deliver incredible food alongside genuine, home-grown friendly service.

Related: This is the Best South Florida Beach Getaway Right Now—And It's Not Miami

Adventure With a Purpose on the Water

Beyond the resort pools, the surrounding waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico are providing an expansive canvas for once-in-a-lifetime experiences. While traditional eco-tourism remains a staple of the islands, sophisticated travelers are increasingly looking for ways to engage in meaningful conservation while enjoying their vacation, says Troy Talpas, GM at The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West.

A unique and rewarding way to get on the water and close to nature is to book a cleanup trip with the Conch Republic Marine Army (CRMA) explains Talpas. This non-profit organization provides “adventure with a purpose” by coordinating cleanup trips in Marathon, Looe Key and Key West/Stock Island. On these excursions, you can actively participate in creating a cleaner environment while taking in and becoming intimately close to local sandbars, mangrove islands, coral patches and shorelines. Elite properties, such as The Perry Hotel & Marina, are leaning heavily into these eco-luxury partnerships.

Related: Florida Just Got a Brand-New, Truly All-Inclusive Resort—and It's Family-Friendly

The Perfect 2026 Forecast for Boating Enthusiasts

The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West

If you're a watersports fan or an avid angler, this particular summer season is shaping up to be historically grand. While Key West is always a spectacular annual destination, this year's specific weather forecast has local experts incredibly enthusiastic about daily excursions.

"With calmer seasonal seas and winds combined with far lower than average storm predictions, 2026 will be the year to be on the water during the day and reminiscing among new and old friends and loved ones at night," says Talpas. Whether you're spending your mornings boarding private charters or your afternoons navigating paddleboards along the mangrove horizons, the calm weather pattern ensures that your time on the water will be as smooth as it is memorable.

“The Florida Keys offer a rare combination of natural beauty, luxury hospitality, world-class boating and fishing, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels genuinely different from other Florida destinations," Nels reflects. "With continued investment in elevated resorts, dining, and experiences, there has never been a better time for travelers to experience a more sophisticated side of the Keys while still enjoying its timeless island charm.”

Related: This Florida Beach Town Just Won Best Beach 3 Years Running — and Retirees Are Obsessed With It

In 1978, Journey found radio success for the first time with “Wheel in the Sky.”

The iconic track, written by Robert Fleischman, Neal Schon, and Diane Valory, appeared on the band’s fourth studio album, Infinity, and became the San Francisco-based band’s first song to ever chart on Billboard’s Hot 100.

Known for its churning guitar riff and arena-rock chorus, “Wheel in the Sky” peaked at No. 57 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1978. It was also the first single featuring new vocalist Steve Perry, who would become a vital part of Journey’s most successful period in the late 1970s and early 80s.

Not only did “Wheel in the Sky” give Journey much-needed radio airtime, but it served as a launching pad for two more Hot 100 hits from the Infinity album: “Anytime” and “Lights.” The album itself soared to No  21 on the Billboard 200.

“Wheel in the Sky” had already been written by the time Perry joined Journey. In a 2022 interview with Vulture, Schon recalled the writing process. “’Wheel in the Sky’… It’s an early song that I wrote with Robert Fleischman," he revealed. "The lyrical content came from a poem that [former Journey bassist] Ross Valory’s ex-wife wrote and handed me on a napkin years ago.”

When Perry joined the band, the powerhouse vocalist envisioned the song differently from the way Fleishman had.

“They already had ‘Wheel In The Sky’ in the bag, but the way they had done it with Robert was different from how I was going to interpret it,” Perry told Classic Rock in 2014. “When it came time for me to do that track we had moved studio from San Francisco to Los Angeles. So I said to [producer]  Roy [Thomas Baker], 'What do you think, shall I try something else?'”

RELATED:1978’s Biggest No. 1 Hit Song Was Written in Ten Minutes

Perry shared a memory of the day he knew the Journey song had made it.

“I remember clearly ‘Wheel In The Sky’ being the first single,” the singer recalled. “Neal and I went to this pizza place, and I went over to the jukebox and saw a ‘Wheel In the Sky’ vinyl 45 in the machine – an ecstatic feeling. I didn’t tell Neal, I just put two quarters in, pushed the button and sat down, and the song started. Neal looked at me and started laughing. It was a monumental moment. Back then, if you started to show up in jukeboxes, it was a sign that you might be finally starting to happen.”

Schon also recalled the "Wheel in the Sky” jukebox sighting at the pizza parlor and the ecstatic moment when he realized he had his first hit.

“We were on tour and hadn’t had a song on the radio yet,” the legendary Journey guitarist told Vulture. “I remember Steve went back and looked through the jukebox, and I’m sitting at the table waiting for a Coke and pizza. He went back and dropped a couple quarters in there and played a couple tunes, and on came ‘Wheel in the Sky.’ We looked at each other and laughed like hell. I remember saying, ‘I can’t believe this.’ We were both jumping up and down.”

Related: 1988 Hit Classic Rock Album Refuses to Leave the Charts 28 Years After Singer Left the Band

A little over 10 years after Prince's death, the legendary musician would have turned 68 today.

On June 7, 1958, Prince Rogers Nelson was born in Minneapolis, going on to build a legacy that earned him numerous iconic nicknames, including "The Purple One," "His Royal Badness," and 'The High Priest of Pop.'

Sadly, Prince passed away on April 21, 2016, at his Paisley Park home in Minnesota at the age of 57. But his long-lasting impact continues to live on.

From a young age, music was Prince's passion; he taught himself to play the piano, guitar, and drums. At the age of 18, Prince began his career when he signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records and went on to release his first album, For You, in which he produced, arranged, composed, and performed.

From there, he went on to release numerous other albums over the following years, including Prince (1979), Dirty Mind (1980), Controversy (1981), and 1999 (1982).

But it was in 1984 when Purple Rain came out, which sat atop the US Billboard 200 chart for 24 consecutive weeks. This was one of the defining albums of the 1980s, and it remains his best-selling album. He also won an Oscar for the film's musical soundtrack, winning for Best Original Song Score.

He didn't stop there and continued to release numerous other iconic albums including Around the World in a Day (1985), Parade (1986), Sign o' the Times (1987), Lovesexy (1988), Batman (1989), Graffiti Bridge (1990), Diamonds and Pearls (1991), Love Symbol Album (1992), Come (1994), The Black Album (1994), The Gold Experience (1995), Chaos and Disorder (1996), Emancipation (1996), Crystal Ball (1998), Newpower Soul (1998), Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999), The Rainbow Children (2001), One Nite Alone... (2002), Xpectation (2003), N.E.W.S (2003), The Chocolate Invasion (2004), The Slaughterhouse (2004), Musicology (2004), 3121 (2006), Planet Earth (2007), Lotusflow3r / MPLSound (2009), 20TEN (2010), Plectrumelectrum (2014), Art Official Age (2014), HITnRUN Phase One (2015), and HITnRUN Phase Two (2015).

Ultimately, he released 39 studio albums, which is one of the many reasons we take a moment to remember him today.

There's nothing quite like the collective buzz of summer road trip season. As the days stretch longer and the weather warms up, millions of us find ourselves staring at calendar windows, dreaming of packing up the trunk, loading up a playlist and chasing the open horizon. This summer, that classic American wanderlust feels even more potent as the entire country kicks off the official 100th anniversary of Route 66. Across eight states, car rallies, vintage festivals and centennial block parties are reminding us that the best travel memories are often made on the blacktop between points A and B.

But while the nostalgic spirit of the 1920s is fueling our travel inspiration, nobody actually wants to navigate their summer vacation with 1920s-era logistics. Scrambling to find a decent roadside motel at midnight, guessing which exit has an available EV charging port, or pulling up to a hotel lobby only to find out they have a strict "no pets allowed" policy can tank a vacation before you even finish your first tank of gas.

Fortunately, the ultimate modern hack for putting your summer travels on cruise control is a hidden-in-plain-sight feature tucked directly inside your smartphone.

If you're an iOS user, the free Marriott Bonvoy mobile app includes a dedicated, highly intuitive feature called Road Trip Search. Instead of blindly searching for properties town by town, this tool allows you to plug in your complete start and end points to visualize an interactive map of hotel options directly along your specific driving route.

The coolest part, however, lies in how the tool lets you filter your route by highly specific travel needs. Rather than scrolling through endless property pages, you can instantly filter your path by exact amenities—letting you pinpoint spots with EV charging stations, properties with on-site dining or hotels that offer multi-room suites so large families can actually unwind together, for example. Here are three incredibly fun, under-the-radar regional itineraries designed for three distinct styles of travel:

Related: Route 66 Cheese Trail: A 2,400-Mile Road Trip for Cheese Lovers

View this post on Instagram 3 Under-the-Radar Summer Road Trip Itineraries1. The Budget-Friendly Breakfast Trail: The Blue Ridge Foothills

• The Route: From Roanoke, Virginia, down through the stunning mountain gaps of Asheville, North Carolina.
• The Vibe: A gorgeous, winding drive through lush summer canopy, misty mountain views and historic bluegrass towns.
• The Hack: Map this route using the app's free-breakfast brand filters. By booking stays at properties like the Fairfield Inn & Suites or SpringHill Suites along the foothills, a family can save hundreds of dollars on morning dining costs, leaving plenty of extra pocket change for afternoon mountain treats and local craft markets.

2. The Pet-Friendly Coastline: The Hidden Pacific Northwest

• The Route: From the tech hubs of Seattle down through the moody, dramatic cliffs of the Oregon Coast, ending in Florence, Oregon.
• The Vibe: Crashing waves, sweeping ocean vistas, massive tidepools and crisp sea breezes that both humans and four-legged copilots will love.
• The Hack: Turn on the app's pet-friendly accommodation filters to completely eliminate the anxiety of traveling with a dog. You can seamlessly plot a path of boutique stays and coastal retreats that welcome pets with open arms, ensuring your dog has a comfortable place to rest after a long afternoon of exploring the sandbars.

Related: The Scenic 'Secret' Mountain Detours Between Denver and Salt Lake City Have Mineral Water Lakes, Cool Hikes, and Fun Fossils

3. The Multi-Gen History Loop: The Heart of the Mother Road

• The Route: From the classic neon-lit streets of Amarillo, Texas, through the historic centennial festivals of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
• The Vibe: Deep-dive Americana, retro roadside architecture, world-class barbecue, and active Route 66 100th-anniversary celebrations perfect for grandparents, kids, and everyone in between.
• The Hack: When traveling with multiple generations, space is non-negotiable. Use the tool to filter for extended-stay brands like Residence Inn or TownePlace Suites along the historic highway. These properties offer spacious, multi-room suites with fully equipped kitchens, giving the kids room to play and the adults room to breathe after a day of retro sightseeing.

Related: This Is the Top Multigenerational Trip According to New Research—And It’s Not an All-Inclusive or Vacation Club

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For anyone who adores the look of vintage-style decor, Walmart has a deal that’s definitely worth checking out. The Oneach 62-Inch Retro Floor Lamp is currently on sale for as low as $60 — down from $120 — and shoppers can't stop talking about how well it fits into their homes. 

The farmhouse style floor lamp has a 4.7-star rating and over 100 five-star reviews at Walmart. There are four styles currently available — three natural wood grain styles and one dark brown option — so you can shop the one that fits best with your decor.

Oneach 62-Inch Retro Floor Lamp, $60 (was $120) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Standing 62 inches tall, it's a statement piece that instantly makes a room feel cozier and more inviting. It works with LED, CFL, halogen, or incandescent bulbs, so you're in control of the light’s brightness and warmth. The rotary switch at the base means you don't have to fumble around to turn it on and off. It also works across a range of styles, from farmhouse to modern. 

It's made with a faux wood grain finish that gives it cozy farmhouse charm and an antique-inspired vibe. The natural linen shade keeps the light soft, which makes it a good fit for a living room corner or a bedroom where you want to wind down. 

Assembly is required, but most shoppers reported that it comes together quickly. It also includes a 12-month warranty for added peace of mind. 

Related: Amazon's 'Uplifting' $28 Sunflower Lamp Is a Cheerful Accent for Desks, Shelves, and Night Tables

Shoppers are clearly happy with it judging by the reviews. "It looks beautiful in my living room. I would recommend this lamp again and again," one reviewer wrote. 

Another said it "brightens up the room.” While a third said: "I am extremely in love with this lamp. It fits the decor in my home perfectly."

Shop More Deals

• Natyswan Floor Lamp, $60 (was $100) at Walmart
• Mainstays 72-Inch Combo Floor Lamp, $18 (was $20) at Walmart
• Sunmory Arc Floor Lamp, $48 (was $81) at Walmart

For as low as $60, the Oneach 62-Inch Retro Floor Lamp is a simple way to make any room feel inviting. It’s currently on sale at Walmart for a limited time, so if it’s been sitting on your wishlist, now’s the moment to grab it before the price goes back up.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

In 1940, a future music icon was born in a small Welsh town. More than eight decades later, Sir Tom Jones remains one of the most recognizable voices in popular music.

Jones turns 86 on June 7, capping a remarkable career that has spanned more than 60 years, produced more than 100 million records sold worldwide and generated hits across pop, country, soul, R&B and rock.

Known for classics such as "It's Not Unusual," "What's New Pussycat?," "Green, Green Grass of Home," "Delilah," "She's a Lady" and "Sex Bomb," Jones has enjoyed a level of longevity few artists ever achieve. He has scored hits in multiple eras, reinvented himself repeatedly and remained a popular live performer well into his 80s.

Related: ‘Purest Soprano in Pop Music’ Turns 82

While many artists struggle to stay relevant after their initial success fades, Jones has built a reputation as one of music's great comeback stories.

Related: ‘Queen of Rock and Roll’ Makes Major Donation to Honor Doctor Who Helped Protect Her Voice

In 2012, British GQ named him its Legend of the Year and praised his ability to continually reinvent himself. The magazine wrote that Jones had "got it all back again more times than anyone can remember" and called him "the king of the comeback."

That same year, Jones was enjoying a new wave of popularity as a coach on The Voice UK while also earning critical acclaim for his later-career albums Praise & Blame and Spirit in the Room.

His enduring appeal has always started with the instrument that made him famous.

Related: ‘Queen of Noise’ Turns 76

In 2013, Rolling Stone praised "The Power and Magnificence of Sir Tom Jones," noting that even in his 70s he remained a formidable vocalist. The publication wrote that his voice "has long given him his nickname as 'The Voice' in his homeland."

Jones' remarkable range and versatility have allowed him to move seamlessly between genres throughout his career. The singer has recorded everything from gospel and country to soul and contemporary pop while maintaining the powerful vocal style that first made him a star during the British Invasion.

His career began in earnest in 1965 when "It's Not Unusual" became an international hit and reached No. 1 in the United Kingdom. The success launched a run of chart hits that included the James Bond theme "Thunderball," "What's New Pussycat?" and "Green, Green Grass of Home."

Related: 1975 Rock Classic Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 51 Years Later

Along the way, Jones earned a Grammy Award for Best New Artist, two Brit Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for services to music.

Yet perhaps his most impressive accomplishment is simply his staying power.

More than 60 years after his breakthrough, Jones continues to record, perform and introduce his music to new generations of fans. For an artist whose greatest asset has always been his voice, that voice remains remarkably strong.

At 86, Tom Jones is still proving why he earned the nickname in the first place.

Related: Original Teen Idol Turns 92 Today

Even though you might not have heard of her before, Elsie Lincoln Benedict was a big deal in her time. She was known as the world’s “best-known lecturer” in the 1920s, and was nicknamed “The Wonder Woman,” as seen in various newspaper ads throughout her career. She spoke about self-improvement before “self-help gurus” were even really a thing. Many of her lectures and books (which she wrote several of) were about using the power of your mind to help you flourish and get the life you wanted. Benedict was giving lessons on the law of attraction before that concept—along with manifestation as a whole—was popular, like they are now. 

And on that note—with our subconscious mind being so powerful—our quote of the day by Benedict reminds us that even the most successful people have had their fair share of failures. So don’t let that stop you from trying. 

Born on Nov. 2, 1885, Benedict was the eldest daughter of six siblings. She developed her love for writing through her school newspaper and for public speaking through oratorical contests. As Beth Blum, an Assistant Professor at Harvard University, wrote in Modernism/Modernity, Benedict was a suffragist in the 1920s and went on to turn “her talents of persuasion to self-help,” writing books on “personality, practical psychology and the science of success.” She also created the “Benedict School of Opportunity,” which was all about how “to read people as easily as you read books…”

As Secrets of Success reported, Benedict believed that “our lives are not a series of random occurrences, but are a direct result of our inner feelings and moods.” She also wrote that the subconscious mind was like “a powerful cannon” that, with lots of effort and work—along with taking personal accountability for things—you can lead a great life of your own creation.

She was the founder of Brainology, which is a famous mind-training course. In her 1925 book of the same name, she wrote that, through specific temperaments and by controlling “intrinsic tendencies,” you can “achieve success and fulfillment.”

Basically, Benedict was all about harnessing the power of your mind to prosper in life. Very “mind over matter,” but to a much deeper level. While we can’t always just “think” our way through things, there is something to be said about how powerful words are and how self-talk can really help you triumph even during hard times. And today’s quote is all about when tries for success lead to failure, and why that’s necessary and normal.

Related: Quote of the Day: Physicist Marie Curie on ‘The Way of Progress’—It Was ‘Neither Swift nor Easy’

Quote of the Day by Elsie Lincoln Benedict 

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"Each one of the world's great successes was a failure first."

This quote comes from Benedict's 1921 book, How to Analyze People on Sight. It appears in Chapter Seven titled, “Vocations For Each Type,” under a section titled, “Failures Who Became Famous.”

After this quote, Benedict writes that it’s “interesting to note the things at which some of them have failed.” She then lists Darwin, Abraham Lincoln, Babe Ruth and Theodore Roosevelt as examples of iconic figures who failed before becoming successful. 

Related: Quote of the Day: Loretta Lynn’s Wisdom Is Just Like Her Legacy — Timeless and Unforgettable

Deeper Meaning of Elsie Lincoln Benedict’s Quote—Determination and Perseverance

Benedict’s final line in this section—which states that these individuals failed “because they tried to do things for which they were not intended”—is saying that whatever these powerful, accomplished men had slipped up at just wasn’t meant to be. They didn't succeed at those specific endeavors because they were meant to have a journey that included blunders, which is not only human but essential to growth.

If you only win, you’ll never learn how to lose correctly, and the slightest inconvenience or missteps might just blow your whole world up. Failures teach us valuable lessons and what to do differently next time. 

Overall, Benedict is calling out the fact that no one is perfect, and it takes practice to make progress. Even people who seem to only flourish—like professional athletes on winning streaks or actors with incredible theatrical runs—all started somewhere. And that somewhere included losses, “no”s, big blunders and massive failures. 

So even though it can be daunting to try something new or take a big risk professionally or personally, you have to just do it regardless of the outcome. You shouldn’t be afraid to fall or flounder because the biggest success stories in history all include chapters of failure at some point.

Related: Psychiatrist Alfred Adler on the 'Meanings We Give to Situations’ and Choosing Our Own Paths

More Quotes from Elsie Lincoln Benedict

• “Deep breathing brings deep thinking and shallow breathing shallow thinking.”
• “Willpower is human electricity. You have enough of this electricity generated in you to achieve the greatest things in life if you would keep the current on.”
• "The person who is constantly meeting unhappiness, poverty, disease and failure in his life is creating these things for himself."
• "Every thought-seed sown or permitted to take root in the mind produces its own harvest."
• "Fear of any kind is a depressant to both mind and body, while faith stimulates us to attempt and finally accomplish the impossible."
• "People miss success because they want to eat their cake and have it too. They won’t do this and they are too good to do that; they are above this and superior to that.
• "If you want to make money, don’t apologize for it."
• "To know what has been holding us back is always fifty percent of the victory."

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Helen Keller on the ‘True Test of a Character’—Facing Hard Moments With ‘Determination'

It's been more than 35 years since Tracy Chapman released what would become one of the most beloved road trip songs of all time.

"Fast Car" was released in April 1988 as the lead single from Chapman's self-titled debut album, and the iconic folk-rock track has since become a generational classic.

For more than three decades, "Fast Car" has remained a road trip staple, soundtracking summertime drives and open-road adventures. It's even named by Rolling Stone as one of the best highway hits of all time, landing at No. 10 on the outlet's 2025 ranking of the "50 Best Road Trip Songs."

Billboard also ranks "Fast Car" as a go-to song for driving playlists, placing it at No. 2 on its list of the "100 Greatest Car Songs of All Time," published in 2021.

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In addition to being a fan-favorite car song, "Fast Car" is also Chapman's signature hit, debuting on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 1988. It reached its peak position at No. 6 in August of that year, which is the highest placement of any song in Chapman's catalog.

The beloved song also earned Chapman her first Grammy award in 1989, when she took home the award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. ("Fast Car" was also nominated for Song of the Year and Record of the Year at the same ceremony.)

Following its success in the late '80s, "Fast Car" later experienced a major second wind, thanks to a popular cover by country star Luke Combs in 2023. Combs' version reached an even higher placement on the music charts than Chapman's own original version, with the country cover peaking at the No. 2 spot.

Following the success from Combs' rendition, Chapman's recording of "Fast Car" made a comeback on the charts by 2024 when it re-entered the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 42, its first return to the chart since 1988.

Related: '70s Rock Legend's Greatest Hits Album Surges on Billboard Charts Over 30 Years Later

Throughout high school, I was in my school's jazz band, and for the bulk of that time, I was their bass player. The instrument was something I'd been introduced to through rock and metal music, so taking the leap over to jazz was exciting, if daunting.

Maybe the most revelatory musical experience of that time was shepherded by my band director, who is a massive funk nerd. We always ended up playing a funk chart or two every year, and ever since then, I have looked at Earth, Wind & Fire like gods.

Fast forward to now, and the band has a new documentary out (directed by the amazingly talented Questlove) that I got to catch at the Tribeca Festival, where it premiered along with a performance from the band themselves. For fans who know every song, or just "September," there are some things you absolutely won't want to miss.

Jaw-Dropping Concert Footage

Right from the beginning, the film throws you into what an incredible live band the group is. The sheer insanity of both the music as well as the showmanship are stunning to see, as well as to feel in the theater. The attention to detail from every costume, set piece, and every part of the choreography for the band is top-notch, and the tightness of the musicality is something to behold.

With insanely high-quality footage from concerts you won't be able to find online, you'll get a real taste of the revolutionary work the band was doing on stage. For just a taste of what to expect, here's the band performing one of my favorites, as well as the song that opens the film, "Getaway."

The Mission of the Band

Much of the documentary focuses on the story of Maurice White, the founder and band leader of the group. The film dives deep into White's upbringing, his struggles during Jim Crow, his incredible persistence and drive, his spiritual inspirations behind his music, and the core tenants that Earth, Wind & Fire were founded upon:

Universal audience, evolved consciousness, and a desire to change the world.

My appreciation for the music the band created increased tenfold once I understood the intent, and I'm sure yours will too. It's a remarkable story of perseverance.

The All-Star Cast of Interviewees

The film features a stacked roster of interviewees, all with incredibly personal insight into the band and the band represents. The doc includes segments from current band members, family of Maurice White,The Obamas, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, and Fleaof the Red Hot Chili Peppers, just to name a few.

Questlove succeeds at asking the right questions and putting the responses together effectively in the edit to make this story come alive. It's also incredibly cool to hear so many respected figures get to be fans.

The Influence of the Band

Perhaps the coolest part of the film for me was seeing how much of modern culture the band had a hand in creating. The doc takes time to explain the ways in which Michael Jackson and Prince learned their showmanship from the group. The outrageous and extravagant concerts that Earth, Wind & Fire laid the groundwork for the instantly iconic performances that Jackson and Prince would put on in the primes of their careers.

Stevie Wonder also gives an amazing little tidbit about how his incredible song "I Wish" was directly inspired by EW&F's "Shining Star," even giving a musical demo of how it was born from listening to the iconic tune.

Toward the end, President Obama speaks about how seeing the group as a young black boy in Hawaii inspired him to go follow his own dreams, citing that if they were able to do this, what was he capable of?

There are many more far-reaching contributions the band have had to both music and culture as whole that await in the film.

The Joy and Connection that Music Can Bring

Ultimately, the film is focused on the exuberant joy of the band. The documentary is oozing with life, love, and a celebration of how music can bring people together and change the world. I found myself tearing up at the end purely from how triumphant the story was, and how well the music captured the emotions found within that.

In a world that feels harder and harder to bear sometimes, the music of Earth, Wind & Fire serves as a rapturous ode to the beauty of being human, being alive, and loving one another. Within their screeching horn lines, thundering bass parts, incredible vocals, and rhythmic mastery is a hope for a better world, and a belief that within all of us is the capacity to make it happen.

Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial Vs. That's The Weight Of The World) is out now on HBO, and it is a wonderful time.

Related: One of Bob Dylan's Greatest Musical Stories is Ranked Among His Most Overlooked Songs

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Many people may find retirement an exciting time full of promise. However, for a lot of people, this chapter of life is filled with another emotion: Anxiety. Psychologists say that retirement anxiety is actually much more common than you may expect, and that it hits people in different ways and at different times, including before they've ever left the workforce.

Fortunately, the experts interviewed for this piece said that there are a few ways you can stave off retirement anxiety, allowing you to celebrate this next exciting phase of your life.

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What Is Retirement Anxiety

Retirement anxiety is a sense of unease and worry that arises around leaving the workforce and entering the retirement stage of one’s life, according to Raffi Bilek, Therapist and Director of the Baltimore Therapy Center. "It can start as an individual approaches that juncture, during the transition, or even after they’ve already stopped working," he says.

Bilek says some of the worries that are likely to float to the surface when you're experiencing retirement anxiety include:

• Worrying about finances
• A loss of purpose and identity
• Thoughts of mortality

Related: The Quiet Marriage Problem That Starts the Day You Both Retire

And it's actually pretty common to feel these things, according to Dr. Nina Bakoyiannis, Licensed Clinical Psychologist at SelfWorks.

"We live in a culture that both glorifies work and creates an environment where people's sense of self, identity, and purpose are really tied to employment," she says. "At the same time, we glorify retirement, we're all inundated with this message that after forty years of work, you have this wonderful time where you can relax, travel, and enjoy yourself."

When Does Retirement Anxiety Start

As you can probably imagine, fear of the unknown leads to a lot of anticipatory anxiety. Dr. Bakoyiannis says that retirement anxiety can emerge before retirement when you start to think about the shift in identity that comes with your career ending.

"For many people, work isn't just how they spend their time or earn money, it's also how they define themselves," she says. "It's tied to purpose, meaning, and self-esteem." So when you start to think about the reality of what your golden years will look like, that's when all of these feelings of uncertainty and loss of identity can come into play.

Related: 5 Books Everyone Should Read the Year Before They Retire, According to Experts

How to Cope With Retirement Anxiety

Now that you know what retirement anxiety is and when it starts, you can begin making a plan to help you cope with these emotions. According to Bilek, that means preparing for some of those more common anxious thoughts.

For example, it’s helpful to ensure you have a solid financial base to get through, or to come up with a plan to manage the situation if you don't.

Dr. Bakoyiannis says creating a sense of structure also helps, which can include things like:

• Setting a routine for your day
• Spending your morning exercising
• Attending social activities
• Taking a class

"Making plans for what you will do with your time is critical," Bilek adds. "Will you help with the grandchildren? Volunteer more? Pick up a new hobby?" Bilek says going into retirement without an idea of what you will do once you get there can contribute to a lot of the stressors that arise when you're experiencing retirement anxiety, which is why it's essential to set yourself up for success before you even leave the workforce.

Retirement isn't about abandoning your professional identity, according to Dr. Bakoyiannis. "It's about integrating other parts of yourself so your sense of self has continuity," she says. "I'm no longer only in this role I had in my career. I'm also a mentor, a friend, a writer, a grandparent, a musician." Reframing thoughts about retirement in this way should give you space for creating that new sense of self while also helping you to fend off feelings of anxiety and isolation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Mark Chesnutt was unable to perform his scheduled show over the weekend due to a temporary health setback. 

The ‘90s country music icon, 62, was supposed to entertain folks in a live outdoor setting at Luckenbach, Texas, in Fredericksburg, TX, on Saturday, June 6, but the evening didn’t go as planned. Instead, Summer Dean, who was already on the bill, performed a free two-hour set, and ticketholders were automatically refunded at their point of purchase. 

The official Facebook page of the music venue shared a post hours before the show was set to kick off, citing a ‘temporary loss of [Chesnutt’s] voice’ as the reason behind the singer’s abrupt concert cancellation. 

“Hi Folks, Unfortunately, the Mark Chesnutt show scheduled for tonight on June 6th, will be canceled due to the temporary loss of his voice and at this time will not be rescheduled,” the post reads, alongside a promotional image of Chesnutt. 

The caption continued, “All ticket sales purchased directly from Luckenbach will be automatically refunded. We apologize for any inconvenience, and wish Mark a speedy recovery. Tonight, Summer Dean will be taking the dancehall stage from 7 pm-9 pm! There will be no cover, and I hope to see you folks out!”

Chesnutt’s concert at Luckenbach, Texas, was supposed to be a highlight of his career as it marked his official headline debut at the venue. However, leading up to the nixed show, Chesnutt was allegedly already showing concerning vocal strain, according to some fans who pointed out his previous gig, which took place just two days earlier.  

“Saw him in Paris [on] Thursday and you could tell he was struggling,” one fan wrote in the comments section of the post, while another person added, “He talked about allergies bothering him when we saw him Thursday in Paris!”

Meanwhile, a third person added, “He played here in Paris, Texas [on] Thursday night and made a comment about it being breezy … hopefully, he didn’t catch anything from here.”

This isn’t the first time Chesnutt has had to bow out of a string of concerts. In the fall of 2025, he was hospitalized and then forced to cancel a round of performances. In 2024, he underwent emergency heart surgery, which led to a series of canceled dates. 

At this point, it is unclear how long Chesnutt’s vocal issues will keep him off the road, as his tour calendar still shows performances scheduled throughout the summer. For a complete list of concert dates, visit Mark Chesnutt’s official website.

Related: Country Star Says She Almost Went to Prison After Misdemeanor Charge: ‘I Got in This Mess’

You should get today's NYT Connections puzzle in record time if you're a well-rounded sports fan. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Sunday, June 7, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Sunday, June 7, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on June 7, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Run and get the ball.
• Green: Hoops stars.
• Blue: Tennis champs.
• Purple: Think Richard Nixon.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: FOOTBALL RECEIVING ROUTES
• Green: FIRST NAMES OF HALL OF FAME CENTERS
• Blue: FRENCH OPEN MEN'S SINGLES WINNERS
• Purple: ____ GATE

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #622 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• FOOTBALL RECEIVING ROUTES: CURL, DRAG, FADE, OUT
• FIRST NAMES OF HALL OF FAME CENTERS: BILL, HAKEEM, KAREEM, WILT
• FRENCH OPEN MEN'S SINGLES WINNERS: BORG, COURIER, LAVER, NADAL
• ____ GATE: BOUNTY, DEFLATE, SPY, TAIL

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: I Ranked 14 Ice Creams From Aldi From Worst to Best—and the Winner Won by a Landslide