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1978 Classic Helped Shape Rock and Roll When It Came Out 48 Years Ago Today

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 7:16am

It's been exactly 48 years since one of the greatest classic rock songs of all time came out.

On April 7, 1978, The Police released their debut single "Roxanne," which would go on to become a timeless rock staple. It has since been named among the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.

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"Roxanne" was the English rock band's first single release, and it was later included on their debut album, Outlandos d'Amour, that came out in November 1978.

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The track didn't initially reach massive success, but it was re-released the following year and eventually broke out on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #32. It also reached to the #12 spot on the UK singles chart.

But it's the lasting impact of "Roxanne" that has solidified its position in rock music history. Not only is it regarded as one of the greatest hits from The Police, but it's also widely ranked among some of the greatest rock songs ever.

The song was included on VH1's list of the 100 Greatest Rock Songs (ranked at #85), and it also earned a spot on Rolling Stone's 2003 list of the 500 Best Songs of All Time, coming in at #398.

In 2008, "Roxanne" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame for its enduring significance in rock music. It marks one of two recordings that The Police have in the Grammy Hall of Fame, along with their 1983 album Synchronicity.

1966 Overlooked Beach Boys Hit Now Considered One of the Best Rock Songs of the ’70s

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 7:15am

Though recorded in 1966, this overlooked Beach Boys track didn’t reach its full legendary status until it was celebrated as one of the defining rock songs of the ’70s.

U Discover Music compiled a list of the Top Songs of the 1970s, broken down by genre. In the rock category, the Beach Boys were celebrated for their 1966 song, "Surf's Up."

How did a Beach Boys song from the late ’60s become one of the ‘70s’ best rock tracks? Written by Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks during the ambitious Smile sessions at Wilson's home, the unfinished tune was left on the shelf until 1971, when the band's manager, Jack Rieley, encouraged Wilson to revisit it.

The result? A long-lost classic was finally given the release it deserved, earning its place in rock history reported Ultimate Classic Rock.

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"Surf's Up" was subsequently added to the LP of the same name. The lush song has since been called a sprawling, ambitious Beach Boys masterpiece and closed out the LP.

According to Songfacts, the tune was completed by the rest of The Beach Boys under the supervision of Carl Wilson, and it became the title track of the band's 17th album. "Surf's Up" was also released as a single, but failed to crack the Billboard charts.

"We just wrote it spontaneously," Wilson shared in the group's official book, The Beach Boys. "It was a masterpiece of a song. It opened on a minor seventh, unlike most songs, which open on a major. From there, it just started building. I thought it rambled beautifully and said a lot in the end."

"It's a song of freedom," the musician continued. "Van Dyke and I really thought we had done something special when we finished that one."

Wilson said that essentially, he hoped all of the band's music would hit on one specific message: love. He said in the book, "There's love in the music, and people can relate to the love, regardless of whether you're two years old or 92 years old. For me, music is about love. Love is the message I want to share. I hope people feel that in my music. That makes the hard work worth it."

Despite "Surf's Up" not finding chart success as a single, its LP of the same name steadily climbed to No. 29 in the U.S., marking the band’s highest chart position since 1967’s Wild Honey reported U Discover Music. Though it didn’t hit the charts, the single remains a lasting highlight, showcasing the Beach Boys at their most inventive.

MORE: The Beach Boys' Most Romantic Song Was Written in Less Than 1 Hour

Keanu Reeves Says He’s Followed This One Career Rule Since His First Paycheck

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 7:12am

Keanu Reeves was still a teenager when he earned his first real paycheck as an actor, but the mindset he brought to that early work has stayed with him for decades.

Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Reeves was asked about his beginnings, including how old he was when he first got paid professionally. 'Sixteen, seventeen, in the fog of memory,' he said, before the conversation turned to one of his earliest jobs. A cereal commercial he filmed as a young actor.

The moment played for laughs, with Reeves gamely leaning into the absurdity of the clip and the memory of his early days trying to land work. But in the middle of the joking, he offered a surprisingly clear look into how he approached his career from the start.

'I would never audition for something I didn’t like,' Reeves said.

It’s a simple rule, but one that stands out in an industry where young actors are often encouraged to take whatever work they can get. Reeves acknowledged as much, noting that booking a commercial at that stage of his career was exciting in itself. Still, he drew a line early. He prioritizes personal interest over pure opportunity.

The comment helps explain the arc of a career that has often seemed deliberately curated. Reeves has moved between blockbuster franchises, smaller character-driven projects and even long stretches away from the spotlight. Those choices have long fueled his reputation for being selective and unconventional by Hollywood standards.

That drive to focus in projects he's invested in extends beyond his work on screen. During the same interview, Reeves spoke about his band Dogstar, which recently reunited after decades apart and is preparing for an international tour. He described being driven to do it by the parts he loves.

'I love the writing… and I love playing live,' he said.

Pressed jokingly on whether that qualifies him as a rock star, Reeves quickly deflected the label. 'I’m not a rock star,' he said, brushing off the idea despite touring globally with the band.

It all seems to part of Reeves' philosophy of focusing on the work he enjoys rather than the image that comes with it. That appears to trace all the way back to those first auditions as a teenager, when he decided that liking the project mattered.

For an actor whose career has spanned decades and multiple reinventions, it’s a notably straightforward principle and one that, by his own account, hasn’t changed since his very first paycheck.

Oh, and want to see that ad in question? Here it is:

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I Went Inside One of the Most Magical Clubs at Sea—Here’s What’s Behind the Secret Door

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 7:10am

Imagine this: You’re on one of Princess Cruises’ newest ships, Sun Princess, enjoying live music in the central common area, known as the Piazza. Then, out of the corner of your eye, you spot a door, which had been unmanned all morning and afternoon, but now an interesting-looking person is opening the door for passengers to walk inside. You venture over to discover that what you once thought was a crew-only area is actually a secret club that any guest onboard can experience. The host helps you secure a reservation for later in the evening. And you’re excited about getting into one of the most secretive clubs at sea: Spellbound by Magic Castle.

If you know anything about magic, then you’ll know that The Magic Castle is one of the most prestigious clubs for magicians around the world. The original club is located in Los Angeles, but now there are outposts at sea that anyone on Sun Princess, and its sister ship, Star Princess, can enjoy. The speakeasy-style venue is located on deck 8 of Sun Princess, just off the Piazza. The only real indicator of the space is a dark door with a gold “S” on the outside, but those who are too entranced by all the other forms of entertainment going on outside in the Piazza may miss the door altogether.

What is Spellbound by Magic Castle? Artifacts from Magic Castle on Sun Princess.

Megan duBois

Spellbound by Magic Castle is an extra cost evening event on Sun and Star Princess. The venue is part bar, part theatrical experience, part history lesson, and part magic show, all wrapped up in one space. The concept is part of its experiential dining product, which also includes the chef’s table and Ultimate Balcony Dining.

On Sun Princess, I paid $45 plus tax and gratuity for an evening at Spellbound. The reservation and cover charge include two premium cocktails that are exclusive to the space, plus a private, small-group magic show.

My experience at Spellbound by Magic Castle The music parlor is a fun spot to hang out inside Spellbound on Sun Princess.

Megan duBois

When my reservation time rolled around, I walked up to the hidden-in-plain-sight door to Spellbound and was escorted inside a small waiting room. What happened next truly took me by surprise. The room darkened, and a voice shared the history of the original Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. Around the room, props moved, pictures came alive, and all at once, I was, well, spellbound. As the warm welcome came to an end, a second secret door opened, revealing three larger rooms, each with distinct themes.

The first room was a sort of music parlor, with a piano playing music by the “Invisible Isabella,” and her lovable bird in a cage singing along. Around the room are paintings and nods to the original Magic Castle, including a poster on a nearby door featuring names of iconic magicians who have graced the stage at the original Magic Castle.

The middle room is where the main bar is. Here, cocktails are created with plenty of pizzazz, including edible glitter and big smoke reveals. This is also a fun room to look around and take in all the details. One bartender told me that some of the pieces in the room are from the Magic Castle archives, which really does add to the overall ambience. One piece that I was truly entranced by was the framed straitjacket and a nearby set of antique handcuffs, the latter of which were used by Harry Houdini.

The final room is a sort of magical library. Think about the library from Beauty and the Beastmeets the library from the Harry Potter series. While overwhelmingly beautiful, there are plenty of hijinks around the space, from butterflies that seemingly start to flutter out of nowhere to an old rotary phone that doesn’t ring, but somehow someone is always talking on the other end if you pick it up.

The Magician cocktail from Spellbound by Magic Castle.

Megan duBois

While exploring the space, I enjoyed two of nearly a dozen cocktail options. My first drink was the Isabella, a sweet dessert drink made with vodka, Kahlua, Baileys, butterscotch, and cream. The drink was served in a chic black glass, which made it feel even more fancy. My second drink was The Magician, a concoction of tequila, mezcal, pamplemousse liqueur, lime, agave, grapefruit, and serrano peppers. It was basically a unique twist on a spicy margarita.

After taking everything in, I found a table to simply enjoy the ambience of the space. Then, after a few minutes, a magician showed up at my table to do some close-up magic tricks with cards. I’m usually pretty good at figuring out how tricks work. My grandpa worked in a magic shop when I was a kid and taught me to do simple tricks and shared some of his secrets. But this Magic Castle magician was so good that I’m still trying to figure out how his final trick was really pulled off.

Then a bell tolled throughout the space. The cue for guests that a larger magic show is about to begin in a fourth, more private room. The magic show room only holds about two dozen people, which makes the up-close magic feel even more special. The Magic Castle magician performing that evening did everything from outlandish card tricks to having a passenger FaceTime a family member back home to participate in a trick even though they were hundreds of miles away. I walked away from the show duly impressed and mesmerized by what I had just experienced.

What makes Spellbound even more exciting is that the performances change depending on which magician from the Magic Castle is in the bar that day. To me, that makes this experience very repeatable, not only because the drinks are good, but also because you’ll never see the same show twice.

Is Spellbound by Magic Castle worth the additional cost? Bar inside Spellbound by Magic Castle.

Megan duBois

I’m giving this question a resounding yes! At just $45 for two cocktails, up-close magic in the lounge, and a 30-minute full-scale magic show, it’s one of the best deals on Sun Princess. The exclusive drinks are worth going by themselves, but add in magic performed by real Magic Castle member magicians, and you’re set to have an evening to remember.

‘80s Pop Rock Legend, With Six No. 1 Hits, Turns 78

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 7:06am

Music legend John Oates is celebrating a big birthday. On April 7, 2026, the legendary guitarist and songwriter, best known as one half of the soft rock/pop duo Hall & Oates, turns 78 years old.

During his decades-long partnership with former collaborator Daryl Hall, Oates logged a whopping six No 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100: “Rich Girl” (1977), “Kiss On My List” (1981), “Private Eyes” (1981), “I Can't Go For That (No Can Do) (1982), “Maneater” (1982), and “Out of Touch” (1984).

He also co-wrote many other Top 10 Hall & Oates songs, including "Sara Smile" and “She’s Gone.”

Oates’ first hit came in 1976

Hall and Oates met while in college in Philadelphia in the late 1960s and began writing and performing together. After signing with Atlantic Records, their single "Sara Smile” reached No. 4 in 1976. Their first No. 1, "Rich Girl,” came the following year.

In 2025, Oates told Vulture his initial collaborations with Hall did not go well. “When we first met, we actually tried to do something together musically, and it sounded really bad,” he said. “We looked at each other and said, ‘This is never going to work. We sound horrible together.’”

“Eventually, he came my way, I came his way, and we found this place,” Oates shared. “I don’t know how we did it. It was just through trial and error, really.”

Hall & Oates enjoyed a long and lucrative partnership. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, but they split in 2023 amid a legal dispute, per Page Six.

Oates later told People magazine he no longer felt “challenged” by performing as part of the rock duo and wanted to focus on solo work.

John Oates revealed the song he most wants to be remembered for

Oates has been open about his decision to change his path in his late 70s. In an interview on The Load Out Music podcast, he admitted, “You need to know when to say when.”

“It’s really interesting how some classic artists are still trying to cling to their past glory," he added. “I think it’s important to age gracefully and exit gracefully in order to enter something new. I may have exited from my experience with Hall & Oates, but I’ve reinvigorated my creative life in a very cool way.”

While he recorded many No. 1 hits over his career, Oates told People that he wants to be remembered for a song that went to No. 7 nearly 50 years ago.

"I probably go back to 'She's Gone,' the song that Daryl and I did in the early '70s, because it has stood the test of time, and that's the mark of a great song," he said in 2025.

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'The Boys' Season 5 Cast Guide: Who’s Who and What You Must Remember Before the Final Battle

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 7:00am

The Boys isn’t just coming back — it’s heading toward its endgame. When Season 5 premieres April 8 on Prime Video, the series returns to a world where Homelander’s (Antony Starr) power has never been greater. His series-long rival, Billy Butcher (Karl Urban), is more dangerous than ever, determined to take down Vought and Homelander no matter the cost to anyone, including himself.

Butcher and Homelander’s long-simmering conflict is inching closer to a final confrontation, and everyone else is getting pulled into the fallout. As that showdown approaches, familiar allies, dangerous enemies and new players collide in a world increasingly shaped by fear, power and the unchecked influence of Vought.

Here's a list of The Boys cast for its final season, and what you need to remember about Season 4 before going in.

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The Boys Season 5 Cast (L-R) Karl Urban as Billy Butcher with Cameron Crovetti as Ryan Butcher

Karl Urban as Billy Butcher with Cameron Crovetti as Ryan Butcher. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Billy Butcher (Karl Urban)

Billy Butcher remains the ruthless force driving the fight against Vought. Though trust in him is thinner than ever, he still serves as the de facto leader of The Boys, pushing the team forward even as his increasingly extreme choices alienate those around him. Season 5 finds him armed with "supe" powers that are killing him, adding a volatile edge to his war against Homelander.

Antony Starr as Homelander in 'The Boys'

Antony Starr as Homelander. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Homelander (Antony Starr)

Homelander has fully stepped into his most dangerous form yet. With Vice President Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit) gone, he’s consolidated his power and now effectively shapes the direction of the country while remaining the face of Vought. Doing whatever he pleases, Homelander is embracing who he really is and with no one left to check him, he’s more terrifying than ever.

Jack Quaid as Hughie and Erin Moriarty as Annie in 'The Boys' Hughie Campbell (Jack Quaid)

Hughie has grown into a more confident and capable member of The Boys, even as he continues to wrestle with the moral cost of the fight. Often caught between Butcher’s hardline approach and his own instincts, Hughie remains the group’s emotional compass.

Erin Moriarty as Annie in 'The Boys'

Erin Moriarty in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Starlight/Annie January (Erin Moriarty)

Annie has become the face of the resistance, leading the anti-Vought movement known as the Starlighters. After building a following and exposing Vought’s secrets, she now stands as both a leader and symbol of rebellion as the fight against Homelander intensifies.

Erin Moriarty as Annie January and Laz Alonso as Mother's Milk in 'The Boys'

Courtesy of Prime Video

Mother’s Milk (Laz Alonso)

The most disciplined member of the team, Mother’s Milk has always tried to keep the team grounded. That control is shattered when he’s captured and sent to a Freedom Camp, placing him directly inside the system he’s been fighting.

Karen Fukuhara as Kimiko in 'The Boys'

Karen Fukuhara in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara)

Kimiko undergoes a major shift in Season 4. After Frenchie is taken away, she begins to speak for the first time, marking a powerful evolution. With her voice finally emerging and Frenchie gone, she enters Season 5 with a renewed sense of purpose. How her voice impacts the character is certainly something fans are looking forward to.

Tomer Capone as Frenchie in 'The Boys'

Tomer Capone in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Frenchie (Tomer Capone)

Resourceful and unpredictable, Frenchie has long been the team’s problem-solver. His story takes a sharp turn when he’s captured and sent to a Freedom Camp, cutting him off from both the team and Kimiko.

Jessie T. Usher as A-Train in 'The Boys'

Courtesy of Prime Video

A-Train (Jessie T. Usher)

A-Train’s path toward redemption took a major step forward in Season 4. After secretly helping The Boys, he exposes himself by saving them from The Deep (Chace Crawford) and Black Noir (Nathan Mitchell). It’s the clearest sign his loyalties have shifted but that choice is sure to come with consequences.

Chace Crawford as The Deep in 'The Boys'

Chace Crawford in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

The Deep (Chace Crawford)

The Deep takes a darker turn after discovering that aggression and intimidation finally earn him respect. Still desperate for approval, especially from Homelander, he heads into Season 5 more volatile and more willing to assert himself.

Susan Heyward as Sister Sage in 'The Boys'

Courtesy of Prime Video

Sister Sage (Susan Heyward)

Introduced in Season 4 as the smartest person in the world, Sister Sage quickly proved her value. Her behind-the-scenes scheming helped Homelander consolidate power, making her one of the most quietly dangerous players in the game.

Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy in 'The Boys'

Jensen Ackles in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Soldier Boy (Jensen Ackles)

Last seen in Season 3, Soldier Boy returns as a major wild card. As Homelander’s biological father and one of the original supes, his presence alone has the potential to shift the balance of power.

Colby Minifie as Ashley Barrett in 'The Boys'

Colby Minifie in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Ashley Barrett (Colby Minifie)

After years of managing Vought’s image, Ashley finally becomes a player herself. Following Homelander’s purge, she takes a dose of Compound V, leaving her future, and possible powers, a major question heading into Season 5.

Valorie Curry as Firecracker in 'The Boys'

Valorie Curry in The Boys. Photo courtesy of Prime Vdi

Firecracker (Valorie Curry)

Firecracker emerged in Season 4 as one of Homelander’s most loyal supporters. A media-savvy supe who thrives on outrage, she builds influence through fear and division, making her both a propaganda machine and a dangerous ally.

Cameron Crovetti as Ryan in 'The Boys' Ryan Butcher (Cameron Crovetti)

Homelander’s superpowered son, Ryan, is caught between two worlds after learning the truth about his mother's relationship to his biological dad. As he struggles with who his father really is (Homelander or Butcher), his choices could have major consequences.

(L-R) Jaz Sinclair as Marie Moreau and London Thor as Jordan Li in 'The Boys'

Courtesy of Prime Video

The Gen V Crew

Season 5 is expected to further connect with Gen V. Starlight has already begun recruiting Godolkin University students, and the Season 5 trailer teases appearances from Marie Moreau (Jaz Sinclair) and Jordan Li (London Thor). With Cate Dunlap (Maddie Phillips) and Sam Riordan (Asa Germann) already crossing over briefly at the end of Season 4, the Gen V characters appear poised to play a larger role.

Daveed Diggs as Oh-Father in 'The Boys'

Courtesy of Prime Video

Oh-Father (Daveed Diggs)

The Hamilton alum plays Oh-Father, a mysterious new supe rooted in the comics. A religious-themed figure, he’s likely to tap into the show’s satire of faith and influence while adding a new layer to the power dynamic.

Mason Dye (C) in 'Stranger Things'

Mason Dye, center, in a scene from Stranger Things. Photo courtesy of Netflix.

Bombsight (Mason Dye)

Bombsight, played by Mason Dye (Stranger Things), is a 1950s-era supe and one of the earliest on record. He’s also expected to factor into the prequel spinoff Vought Rising, hinting at deeper connections to Vought’s past.

6 Types of Travelers Who Will Hate Cruises (And Should Avoid Them)

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:39am

Cruise vacations sit near the top of the bucket list for millions of people every year. They promise endless ocean views, buffet feasts, onboard entertainment, and the convenience of “unpack once and see the world.” But that glossy image isn’t for every kind of traveler. For some people, the reality of life at sea feels like a mismatch with what they truly want from a vacation.

"I think the only people who should really avoid cruises are those who have severe motion sickness issues. For most people, I think it's more a question of finding the right cruise. Some people, for example, don't like the idea of being cooped up, so maybe a destination-heavy cruise would still work for them. As an advocate for the industry, I think there's a perfect cruise for most people," said Come Cruise With Me Editor in Chief Daniel Kline.

I’ve spoken with travelers, read first‑hand accounts, and dug into both industry criticism and personal preference reporting. What emerges is a clear sense that certain travel personalities systematically clash with the cruise experience. If you see yourself in any of these descriptions, you might want to chart another course.

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1. The Seasick or Motion‑Sensitive Traveler

For some people, even the gentlest wave can feel like a betrayal of stable ground. I know friends who never book a cruise precisely because they feel queasy at the thought of being surrounded by water with no solid land in sight. Others stock up on medication and ginger chews before boarding, but that preparation doesn’t erase the fact that motion is inherent to the experience. Many seasoned land travelers choose alternatives like river cruises or coastal sailings that avoid open sea days because they still crave water travel without intense motion.

2. The Introvert or Quiet‑Space Lover

Cruise ships are bustling micro‑cities at sea. One travel blogger who dislikes cruises described the experience almost like attending a festival where quiet is an afterthought. Introverts who prefer cozy bed‑and‑breakfast inns or small boutique hotels often find cruise crowds overwhelm their personal comfort zones. And while some luxury lines offer private lounges or quieter tiers, the core cruise vibe remains communal by design.

3. The Budget‑Conscious Traveler

Cruise advertising often touts all‑inclusive pricing, but the reality for many passengers includes a series of hidden costs. Gratuities, specialty dining, shore excursions, Wi‑Fi, drinks, and spa services can add up quickly once you’re on board. For those who want tangible cost control and local immersion, land‑based travel can be far more satisfying and wallet‑friendly.

4. The Culture Seeker Who Likes to Wander

If your idea of travel is lingering at cafés, chatting with locals, and uncovering hidden neighborhoods, cruising’s curated itinerary may disappoint you. Shore time is often limited to a few hours in each port before the ship sets sail again. Critics of this model argue that cruising offers “glimpses” of destinations rather than real cultural connection. If slow travel and deep local engagement are your travel priorities, a train route across wine country or a road trip through historic towns might spark more joy and meaning than a cruise port visit.

5. The Environmental or Ethical Traveler

Cruise ships are some of the most energy‑intensive ways to travel. They burn massive amounts of fuel and have historically struggled with sustainable waste management. Critics argue that the industry’s environmental footprint and the way cruise tourists interact with small port economies can undermine local communities. Some travelers don’t want their vacation dollars to float on top of issues like pollution or over tourism in fragile destinations. If leaving places better than you found them is central to your travel ethic, you may find yourself uncomfortable with cruise travel’s systemic impacts.

6. The Slow‑Mornings Lover

Here’s one I didn’t quite expect: cruise itineraries can feel rushed. Ships often arrive early in port to maximize time ashore, meaning early alarms and day‑long touring. If your ideal holiday involves waking without an alarm, savoring coffee, and gently strolling into the day, the cruise rhythm might feel like a sprint. While sea days are more relaxed, the pace of back‑to‑back ports can make a cruise perpetually “on” rather than restful.

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When Cruises Might Still Work

None of these caveats means cruises are universally bad. Many travelers love them, and the industry has evolved dramatically, especially with amenities and choices ranging from expedition to luxury lines.

But being honest about these potential friction points helps you choose the travel style that truly fits you. In my own travel planning, I think deeply about whether I want immersion or ease, solitude or social energy, slow discovery or curated stops. If cruising sounds like it would cramp your travel style in any of those dimensions, you’re not alone, and there are plenty of other ways to roam this beautiful world that match your travel personality.

1979 Rock Classic Inspired by a Fleetwood Mac Hit Became a Party Anthem

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:24am

Van Halenalways delivers. But there’s one song from the kings of guitar shred that’s getting some extra love right now.

“Dance the Night Away,” a good-vibes-only hit that got massive radio play back in the day, is at the heart of American Songwriter’s list of “Underrated Rock Songs From 1979 That Sound Even Better Today,” published Saturday, April 4.

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“This hard rock jam from Van Halen was a pretty huge hit back in 1979,” the publication writes. “And yet, I don’t think it gets enough love as the outfit’s other classics.”

And, yeah, they’re not wrong. The band’s most-played songs, according to Spotify charts via data site Kword, are “Jump,” “Panama,” “Runnin’ With the Devil,” “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love,” and “Hot for Teacher,” with the latter featured all over the annals of pop culture. See: Varsity Blues, Despicable Me 4, and Family Guy.

But “Dance the Night Away” is its own special rush of seratonin. The second track off the band’s Van Halen II album, it's slight departure from their harder-edge signature and was allegedly inspired by Fleetwood Mac’s 1976 lead single off their landmark Rumours album, “Go Your Own Way.”

Both melody driven, easygoing, and built on a danceable beat, these hits could almost be companion pieces in another lifetime, but where Van Halen’s track is light as a daisy — about a girl, a moment, a vibe — Fleetwood Mac’s is steeped in emotion and drama. Both are incredible, just operating on entirely different frequencies.

“I don’t really hear the similarities, and that’s probably a good thing,” AS writes. “Both songs really stand on their own, and ‘Dance the Night Away’ is a particularly fun tune.”

Though the track didn’t reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, it did break into the Top 20, peaking at No. 15 in 1979 and marking the band’s first U.S. Top 20 single.

Fans loved the commercial pop-rock appeal of the jam written by all four of the group’s members, David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen, Alex Van Halen, and Michael Anthony. The party anthem even convinced fans to revisit the first self-titled album, spiking sales from about 1 million to 10 million, Songfacts shares.

Nearly 50 years later, the no-worries, all-fun classic hits just as hard and sounds better than ever. Roll the windows down and turn this one up — it’s the perfect hit for welcoming in warmer weather and longer days.

1973 Nostalgic Hit Topped the Charts —Now It’s Named One of the Decade's Best

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:14am

In the early 1970s, one deeply sentimental song quietly found its way into people’s hearts, telling a simple, emotional story that stayed with them long after it ended.

Tony Orlando and Dawn's “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” became synonymous with a feeling of deep appreciation and love for someone who had endured a difficult ordeal. The symbolism of yellow ribbons soon took on a life of its own, coming to represent hope, forgiveness, and a heartfelt welcome home.

The Irwin Levine and L. Russell Brown tune was named one of the Best 70s Songs in a 2026 list published by U Discover Music. It landed squarely in the center of the AOR (Adult/Album Oriented Rock) category between The Commodores and The Carpenters.

The song topped the Billboard charts in 1973. It was originally pitched to Ringo Starr, whose team passed on the song. Hank Medress, who produced Orlando's "Knock Three Times," took a chance on the tune and recorded the uplifting story-song with his backing singers, Dawn, Far Out reported.

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According to the American Legion website, the first time Orlando performed the song was at the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day 1973. The singer said in a 2011 interview, "After our shows, we had two to three-hour lines of soldiers wanting autographs. That was the greatest gift I ever received back from an audience: these young troops serving our country, who really didn’t know the performer by name, but knew 'Yellow Ribbon,' knew what it meant. Of all the things I’ve ever done in 50 years of show business, that’s the one thing I’ll carry with me to my grave."

RELATED: 1975 Love Song No One Wanted to Release Became a No. 1 Hit for Frankie Valli

Per The Tennessean, "Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree" was conceived after songwriter Brown got the idea from a Reader's Digest story. He explained, "I was reading the Reader's Digest. I read it from front to back. There was an article about a soldier coming home from Andersonville Prison in the Civil War, and he was going to Pennsylvania."

"He told his girl in a letter, 'I'll understand if I should stay on the stagecoach. But if I shouldn't, tie a big yellow handkerchief on the big oak tree outside of town. And then I'll know if it's there, I should get off, but I'll understand that you found someone else in the last three years.'"

Brown concluded, "He couldn't bear to look at it himself. So he told the other people in the stagecoach and the driver to please look. When they got to the big oak tree, everybody yelled and screamed. He looked out the window, and it was covered with yellow handkerchiefs. A chill went up my neck. I said, 'My God!' I said, 'Boy, that would make a great song.'"

RELATED: 1972 Country Rock Gem Took 3 Years to Become an Unforgettable Hit

“Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” isn’t just a song. It’s a symbol of hope, love, and the joy of coming home. Decades later, it still tugs at heartstrings like it did when it first topped the charts.

MORE: 1975 Hit Fans Misunderstood for Years Hid a Surprising, Romantic Twist

Stanley’s Brand-New Beach-Inspired Collection of Tumblers Is So Pretty for Spring

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:12am

Cloud Dancer, a serene, dreamy white, may have been named the 2026 color of the year by Pantone, but if you ask Stanley 1913 fans, this season is all about blue.

The popular drinkware brand has quietly released a mini collection of tumblers in Sea Glass Aura and Sea Glass Plume, with items starting at $35 and going up to $45. Though the two colorways share a first name, they inspire completely different feelings.

Sea Glass Aura is a dark blue and aquamarine crested ombre reminiscent of serene ocean waves, while Sea Glass Plume has a cream base with wispy cerulean, lilac, and orchid lines and dashes that feel like a pastel flock of feathers brushed past the cups.

@luvmytumblers

#creatorsearchinsights New Tumblers coming to @DICKS Sporting Goods 3/31 at 12 pm ET! Sea Glass Aura & Sea Glass Plume🌊 #stanley #stanleycup #tiktok #viral

♬ original sound - TumblerDiva

A 30-ounce handled cup, the Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler, and its smaller counterpart with a 20-ounce capacity are currently available for $40 and $35 respectively in both Sea Glass Aura and Sea Glass Plume. The IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler, which holds 30 ounces of liquid and retails for $40, is currently only available in Sea Glass Plume, as the Sea Glass Aura version has sold out.

There’s also an additional product in Sea Glass Plume, an All Day Mini Lunch Box for $45, which is crush-resistant, comes with a strap for easy transport, and has an inner mesh pocket for holding silverware or a small snack. It is compatible with the $35 Legendary Useful Box, a stainless steel container that snaps shut and is dishwasher safe.

Stanley 1913 fans are thrilled with this launch, taking to Reddit to write that they “absolutely love it” and think it’s “so pretty.” One Reddit user teasingly responded, “Remind yourself that you really do not need another cup!” but as others said in another post on the social media site, they “need” to get their hands on the new collection.

Next: This ‘Massive Change’ at Costco Will Make Meal Prep a Breeze: ‘Finally’

4 Birth Months With an Ethereal, High Priestess-Like Aura

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:11am

Some people have a presence that’s difficult to describe, as if they naturally radiate an alluring energy. You may not be able to pinpoint it, but you can often notice it in how they absorb information before speaking, their innate understanding of situations without needing extensive context, and the calming, slightly mysterious, and deeply intuitive vibe they exude.

This phenomenon is known as "High Priestess energy," a term derived from the tarot card that represents intuition, inner wisdom, and a connection to the unseen. Throughout history and across various ancient traditions, people have turned to priestesses for intuitive guidance. In modern times, we continue to seek the wisdom, healing, and spiritual connection of these insightful individuals, even if they do not explicitly identify as high priestesses.

In astrology, the month in which you are born can reveal insight into your characteristics, personality, or essence. Further, you may find how you connect with your intuition, navigate your emotions, and explore the hidden aspects of life. An ethereal and intuitive presence stems from a strong connection to oneself and a deep trust in one's instincts. While this quality often develops over time, individuals born in four specific months tend to display it from the very beginning.

Here are four birth months that inherently carry an ethereal, High Priestess-like aura.

Which Birth Months Carry An Ethereal, High Priestess-Like Aura?

Birth months are listed. Disregard your birth date.

READ: This Country Song Matches Your Personality, Based on Birth Date

February: Intuitive Expansion

People born in February experience the world in a unique way. They tend to be individualistic and follow their own paths. With a strong connection to their inner selves, they possess a distinct perspective that doesn’t often require validation from others. Rather than jumping headfirst into new situations and relationships, they prefer to assess people's energy before getting too close. In social settings, they often maintain a degree of distance and reservation. They have a keen awareness of patterns, emotional shifts, and subtle changes that others might overlook.

Most of all, even if they can't fully articulate the reasons behind their feelings, February-borns trust their intuition. Whether you're an innovative Aquarius or a sensitive Pisces, you embody insight and intuition effortlessly. Others sense your gentle, almost dreamlike quality. Drawn to creative or spiritual avenues, these souls carry the sense that there’s always more lingering beneath the surface. Being around them can evoke a feeling of calm expansiveness.

RELATE?: 4 Birth Months Most Likely to Travel the World After Retirement

June: Intuitive Nurturance

People born in June carry deeply soulful, emotionally sensitive energy. This natural sensitivity allows them to read the room, understand what’s unspoken, and respond in ways that feel thoughtful and attuned. Without thinking about it, they infuse their environment with comfort and emotional intelligence. Whether you're a curious Gemini or a deep Cancer, inquisitiveness and emotional depth are illuminated within your personality.

June-borns observe closely. Asking questions, processing internally, and being intentionally observant of others are instinctive. They’re able to hold different perspectives at once, which makes them naturally fair and wise. There’s also something about their presence that feels natural. People tend to open up to them easily, often without realizing why. They create a sense of ease just by being there, and their ability to listen and understand adds to that almost mystical feeling.

October: Intuitive Soulfulness

People born in October have a natural ease with others. They know how to connect, listen, and make someone feel seen without overextending themselves. There’s a level of awareness in how they move through relationships that just feels intuitive. Either a charming Libra or a soulful Scorpio, they’re attuned to what’s happening on the surface as well as underneath it.

They can read a shift in tone, pick up on what isn’t being said, and adjust in real time. At the same time, they don’t give everything away. There’s a part of them that stays private, even in close connections. The balance that comes from being open and engaged while still holding something back creates that sense of mystery around them. It’s this combination of presence and restraint that gives October-born individuals that High Priestess-like aura. Others are drawn to their diplomacy and charm, and stick around for their intuitive depth.

FUN!: Your Perfect Comfort Meal, Based on Birth Month

November: Intuitive Wisdom

November is one of the most naturally intuitive birth months. People born during this time of the year tend to have a strong connection to their inner world, enabling them to trust their instincts. Either an investigative Scorpio or an expansive Sagittarius, they carry emotional depth alongside an urge to understand life on a deeper, philosophical, and spiritual level.

November-borns aren’t usually interested in mere superficial experiences. They much prefer to know what’s real, what’s true, and what’s underneath it all. One thing is for certain: you'll feel their strong presence. They may not always say a lot, but when they do, it tends to land. People often feel perceived by them in a way that feels meaningful, even if a little disarming at times. Their energy feels mysterious and magnetic, like they’re tuned into something beyond logic.

Want to learn more about your birth month?

Born in February | Born in June | Born in October | Born in November

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Texas Is Having a Major Travel Boom With British Tourists Right Now

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:10am

"Cowboy-core" travel is officially having a moment, and it’s completely changing how UK travelers are planning their American holidays. According to new research from Journeyscape, there has been a massive surge in demand for authentic Western experiences, with searches for ranch stays rising by 130% over the last year.

Most notably, interest in Texas holidays spiked by a staggering 203% overnight following the March 23, 2026, release of the teaser trailer for Dutton Ranch, the highly anticipated Yellowstone spin-off.

The new series, which follows fan-favorites Rip and Beth as they relocate to a 7,000-acre ranch in South Texas, is inspiring British travelers to seek out their own slice of ranch life. This "Yellowstone effect" reflects a wider shift toward slower, more meaningful, experience-led travel. It’s not just solo adventurers, either; Journeyscape reports that searches for "family holiday United States" have also increased by 45% as groups look to trade traditional city breaks for wide-open spaces.

If you’re looking to actually step into the saddle, Bandera—the self-proclaimed "Cowboy Capital of the World"—is having a huge moment right now. Forget the polished resort vibes; this is where you go for coffee on a wrap-around porch before heading out on a horseback ride across the open Hill Country.

Working ranches like Mayan Dude Ranch are the ultimate stay for families who want to swap screen time for a little bit of ranch routine and nature. But if you're craving something with a bit more horsepower, head to Fort Worth. It’s home to the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive right through the historic Stockyards, plus enough rodeos, old-school saloons and live music to make you feel like you've walked onto a movie set.

Beyond the ranch, the Texas boom is also highlighting the state’s modern creative edge. Travelers are increasingly heading to the vineyards of the Texas Hill Country, the live music scene in Austin, and the remote landscapes of Big Bend National Park. "Texas and Louisiana are two of the USA’s most well-known states, and a trip to either guarantees a good time," says Dominique Kotsias, Product Manager at Journeyscape. "One minute you’re listening to some of the best jazz in the world, then the next visiting the most beautiful colonial homes and taking in the laid-back Louisiana lifestyle. It offers a complete mix of iconic cowboy culture, delicious food, music, and history all in one."

‘60s Child Star, Known for Beloved Classic Sitcom, Dies Tragically at 21 on This Day in 1974

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:05am

In the 1960s, Bobby Buntrock was a beloved child actor in the sitcomHazel. The young actor was just eight years old when he made his debut as Harold “Sport” Baxter, the pint-sized sidekick of a family’s live-in maid (Shirley Booth), on the NBC sitcom in 1961.

Hazel ran for five seasons until April 1966. Buntrock appeared in all of them, even though his TV parents (Don DeFore, Whitney Blake) left the show ahead of Season 5 under the guise that their characters moved to Baghdad and left their son in the care of relatives and wacky maid Hazel.

When she was a star on Hazel, Blake told The Los Angeles Times that the goal of the classic sitcom was to “make people happy.” “We don’t deal with deep problems,” she said. “We have happy problems. People tell me it’s refreshing to see our show, that they never miss it because they feel good afterward.”

At the height of Hazel’s popularity, Buntrock appeared in a 1963 commercial for the Ford Falcon station wagon with Blake, as well as early ads for the iconic 1960s toy Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots.

Buntrock only had one other acting credit after Hazel. As a young teen, he appeared in three episodes of The Virginian between 1963 and 1967.

A tragic death

On April 7, 1974, Buntrock died tragically at age 21. A death notice published by the Rapid City Journalrevealed that the former child actor drowned in Battle Creek River after a one-car accident. Buntrock’s car veered off a bridge construction site in Keystone, South Dakota, and plunged into the water. The Hazel star had been living in South Dakota for five years and had graduated from high school there in 1970. The late actor was also a member of the National Guard in Rapid City, South Dakota.

The death announcement shared details on graveside services for Buntrock, who was survived by his father, Robert Buntrock, and sisters Stella and Deanne. Buntrock’s mother, Maxine, died two years before him, in June 1972.

Bobby Buntrock’s neighbors convinced his parents to get him into acting

With his adorable blond looks and perky personality, Buntrock was cast in several TV roles before getting his big break on Hazel. The actor’s early roles included guest spots on Wagon Train, Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, Mister Ed, and The Donna Reed Show.

According to an article in the Lewiston Evening Journal, Buntrock was born in Denver, but his family moved to Whittier, Calif, when he was a young child. The family’s neighbors convinced Buntrock’s parents to get him into acting, going so far as to book a photographer to take head shots of the child to send to an agent. Buntrock signed with agent Marcella Bell on the spot.

He had a tutor on set on Hazel and attended public school when the show wasn’t filming. At the time, Buntrock’s father said his son was a regular kid off camera.

“He likes to play the accordion and likes baseball, too. His best subject is arithmetic,” Buntrock’s father said in October 1961.

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‘Delightfully Dishy’ 2003 Bestseller Returning to the Big Screen Named Vogue’s Latest Book Club Pick

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 6:00am

Gird your loins because Vogue has just revealed its second Book Club pick.

Just in time for April showers and May flowers, the pick spotlights an iconic novel that’s also headed for the big screen again, delivering a long-awaited sequel film.

The group read choice centers on The Devil Wears Prada, the 2003 best‑selling fashion satire by Lauren Weisberger that inspired the wildly successful 2006 film of the same name.

It’s a fitting choice considering The Devil Wears Prada 2 is gearing up for release in theaters, which will reunite key characters from the original Runway universe, including Andy (Anne Hathaway), Emily (Emily Blunt), Nigel (Stanley Tucci), and Miranda (Meryl Streep), while once again reintroducing fans to the cutthroat world of high fashion.

Vogue’s Book Club pick gives readers a chance to revisit the original story’s sharp wit and cultural commentary ahead of the sequel’s big-screen premiere on May 1.

Described as a "delightfully dishy novel about the all-time most impossible boss in the history of impossible bosses" by GoodReads, it focused on gureling experiences of recent college graduate Andrea Sachs, who takes a job as the assistant to the tyrannical editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, Miranda Priestley, a character seemingly inspired by Vogue’s Anna Wintour.

It became a major literary success, appearing on the New York Times Best Sellers list and selling millions of copies due to its blend of fashion commentary, humor and ambition.

The synopsis for The Devil Wears Prada 2 film reads, “Miranda Priestly struggles against Emily Charlton, her former assistant turned rival executive, as they compete for advertising revenue amid declining print media, while Miranda nears retirement.”

Vogue’s Book Club was established in Jan. 2026, with Emily Brontë’sWuthering Heights, also brilliantly timed just before the Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi film hit theaters on Feb. 13, 2026.

Vogue’s Book Club runs weekly stories about the book and hosts Group Chats on the Vogue app, with the latest reading choice running through April 23.

By connecting their latest pick with a high‑profile film event, Vogue is once again blending literary appreciation with modern pop culture in a way that both longtime fans and new readers can enjoy.

'Charlie’s Angels' Stars 'Look Amazing' Reuniting 50 Years After the Show’s Debut

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:30am

Charlie’s Angels is one of the most iconic shows in television history. The 1970s Aaron Spelling-produced drama premiered in 1976 and made stars of its cast, including Farrah Fawcett, Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith, and Cheryl Ladd, who replaced Fawcett in Season 2. The show became a cultural touchstone and inspired generations of female-led action series. Fifty years after Charlie’s Angels debuted, three of its stars are reuniting, much to the delight of fans.

At Monday’s Charlie’s Angels 50th anniversary celebration at the annual PaleyFest, Kate Jackson (77), Jaclyn Smith (80), and Cheryl Ladd (74) reunited to celebrate the TV milestone. On Tuesday, the trio is set to reunite once again for a sit-down interview on Today.

@todayshow

It’s been 50 years since the original #CharliesAngels hit our screens. Maria Shriver sat down with Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith and Cheryl Ladd to talk about the iconic action packed series. Tune in tomorrow on TODAY.

♬ original sound - TODAY Show Fans React to Charlie’s Angels Reunion

Fans filled the comment section of Today’s Charlie’s Angels reunion clip, thrilled to see the women back together while noting their ageless beauty.

“Wuaoowww Jacklyn is ageless,” gushed one fan. Another added, “They all look gorgeous! Loved the show sooooo much.”

Another shared, “They all look amazing.”

“Wow! 50 years. Loved this show!” wrote one more.

Inside the PaleyFest Reunion

Despite rumored past tension between Cheryl Ladd and Kate Jackson, the women joyfully reunited at PaleyFest and reflected on behind-the-scenes moments, shared stories about the show’s impact, and highlighted the bond they have maintained over the years as part of the cultural phenomenon.

The reunion highlights the continued impact and influence of Charlie’s Angels, and the actresses who worked alongside Bosley (David Doyle) each week to solve crimes for the elusive Charlie.

When Did Charlie’s Angels Air?

Premiering in 1976, the show wrapped its original run after five seasons in 1981. Jackson starred in the early seasons, from 1976 to 1979. Ladd joined in Season 2, appearing from 1977 to 1981 following Fawcett’s exit after Season 1. Smith remained for the entire run of the series, from 1976 to 1981, making her the only Angel to stay for all five seasons.

What the Cast Is Doing Now

Fifty years later, Charlie’s Angels remains as relevant as ever, as do the actresses who defined it. While Kate Jackson has largely stepped away from acting to focus on her private life and occasional appearances, Cheryl Ladd has continued working in television and film and has also appeared on stage. Jaclyn Smith built a successful lifestyle and fashion brand and continues to make media appearances.

Why Charlie’s Angels Still Matters

Thanks to streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Tubi, nostalgic television like Charlie’s Angels can be introduced to new generations while reconnecting with longtime fans. The series may have helped popularize the term “jiggle TV,” but it also broke barriers for female-led action shows and created enduring pop culture icons.

Fifty years later, Cheryl Ladd, Kate Jackson, and Jaclyn Smith remain as iconic as ever—and just as captivating.

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Wayfair’s 'Beautiful' Console Table Is Now Under $100 and 'Perfect for Small Spaces'

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:30am

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If you need something to fill an entryway, hallway, or open wall space, the Longshore Tides Mahler 42-Inch Console Table is a super practical addition to any home. Right now, Wayfair has it on sale for as low as $87 for the white option, down from $147. The black option is $93 (originally $160), espresso is $88 (originally $152), and gray is $92 (originally $152).

The table measures 31.5 inches high, 42 inches wide, and 14 inches deep, making it narrow and ideal for smaller spaces. It’s made with manufactured wood and a solid wood base, and it has three tiers total with two open shelves underneath. The X-brace supports help increase stability, and the table has a 176-pound weight capacity. It also features a scratch-resistant and stain-resistant surface, plus a finished back.

Longshore Tides Mahler 42-Inch Console Table, $87 (was $147) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

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You can use it near the front door for keys, bags, or mail, but it also works well behind a sofa, under a window, or along a hallway wall. The shelves provide extra storage, and the top surface is spacious enough for decor, framed photos, or a lamp.

One shopper called the table "beautiful," while another said it’s “sturdy and super easy to put together!" Other reviewers said it offers "plenty of space" and is "perfect for small spaces.” Some people said they used it in an entryway for diaper bags and book bags, while others used it in a guest bedroom, office, TV room, or hallway for family pictures and decor.

You can keep it simple with a mirror and a tray in an entryway, or use baskets on the lower shelves for more hidden storage. It also works nicely in a living room or office, with books, candles, photo frames, or even board games if that’s what you need the space for.

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The Longshore Tides Mahler 42-Inch Console Table offers extra storage, surface space, and a more finished look than many other console table styles. Now under $100, it’s a great price for a piece that can work in so many different spots around the house. Be sure to snag yours while it’s still marked down this low at Wayfair.

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1980s Queen of Glamour Rocks Edgy Leather and Pink Tartan at 92

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:29am

Joan Collins, DBE, is a vision.

At 92, the queen of glamour stepped out for the London opening gala of Kinky Boots, held at the London ColiseumSunday, March 29. For the Tony-winning musical about a Brit who saves his father’s shoe biz, Collins looked ravishing in a pink tartan skirt and long leather trench coat.

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She finished the look with oversize shades, black gloves, and a Lilith pendant she said was a gift from her daughter that draws “inspiration from the eternal goddess.”

Fans took note of the legend’s post on Instagram, complementing her red-carpet swagger and letting the emojis do the talking.

“Just PURE fabulous on Red Carpet 😎‼️,” one wrote.

“You look incredible 😍😍😍😍,” another said.

“Hello Gorgeous! @joancollinsdbe 😍👏✨,” another commented.

“Super 🔥,” yet another shared.

Aside from her night out on the red carpet, Collins has been in the headlines lately.

In January, she stepped out with her husband for the Los Angeles premiere of her film, A Murder Between Friends. And a couple of weeks ago, the superstar made unfiltered comments about weight loss drugs and “Ozempic face.”

“I would never dream of doing something like that,” Collins said in an interview with Hello!magazine. “I have seen too many disastrous faces. There’s a thing now called ‘Ozempic face,’ where you see this body which is really tiny and this big face.”

1964 Song Ranked No. 3 on ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Became a Powerful Anthem

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:12am

A song released in 1964 has gone on to be recognized as one of the most important recordings in music history.

Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” is ranked No. 3 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, cementing its legacy as both a musical milestone and a defining cultural statement.

By the time he recorded the song, Cooke was already one of the most successful artists of his era. His breakthrough came with “You Send Me,” which became his first No. 1 hit and launched a run of chart success that helped define early soul music, according to music historian Fred Bronson in his book "The Billboard Book of Number One Hits."

But “A Change Is Gonna Come” marked a clear shift. It was more personal, more reflective—and far more ambitious than anything he had released before.

Inspired in part by Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind,” Cooke set out to write a song that spoke directly to the experiences of Black Americans during the civil rights movement. What emerged was a deeply emotional piece that blended personal pain with a broader message of hope.

A Defining Song of the Civil Rights Era

The lyrics were shaped by real events in Cooke’s life. In 1963, he and members of his entourage were arrested in Louisiana after attempting to check into a whites-only motel—an incident that directly influenced one of the song’s most powerful verses:

I go to the movie
And I go downtown
And somebody keep telling me
"Don't hang around"

At the same time, Cooke was dealing with profound personal loss. The death of his young son added another layer of emotion to the song, giving it a depth that resonated far beyond the charts.

Recorded with a sweeping orchestral arrangement, the track stood apart from his earlier hits. Where songs like “You Send Me” showcased his smooth, accessible sound, “A Change Is Gonna Come” carried a heavier emotional weight, combining intimate storytelling with a larger social message.

Although it was only a modest hit upon its initial release, the song’s impact quickly grew. Following Cooke’s death in December 1964, it took on even greater significance, becoming widely viewed as his musical farewell.

Over time, “A Change Is Gonna Come” has become synonymous with the civil rights movement and is frequently cited as one of the most powerful protest songs ever recorded. Cooke’s influence extended far beyond his own recordings, with artists across genres later citing his work as foundational to modern soul and pop music, as noted by Bronson.

More than 60 years later, the song still resonates—not just as a classic recording, but as a lasting reminder of resilience, struggle and the belief that change, no matter how long it takes, will come.

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This Medieval-style Castle is Known as the 'Hogwarts of Massachusetts'

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:10am

If you’ve been scrolling through your New England travel feed lately, you’ve probably seen the viral clips of Hammond Castle in Gloucester being dubbed the "Hogwarts of Massachusetts." As someone who lives just down the road in Marblehead, I can tell you the local reaction to that nickname is… let's call it "spirited."

While the internet is busy debating whether this medieval-style gem is more Gryffindor or Slytherin, the real travel hack is that this place is actually way weirder and cooler than any movie set. Built in the late 1920s by inventorJohn Hays Hammond Jr. (the "Father of Radio Control"), the castle is a wild architectural mashup where 15th-century French facades meet high-tech laboratory vibes.

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Perched dramatically on the rocky cliffs of the Magnolia coastline in Gloucester, the castle is the crown jewel of the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway—a stretch of Route 127 that is arguably the most beautiful drive in the state. As you pull up, the massive grey stone turrets and flying buttresses look like they were plucked straight from 15th-century France and dropped onto the rugged Massachusetts shore.

Inside, the Great Hall is a total showstopper, featuring a soaring 85-foot ceiling, a massive 8,400-pipe organ, and a Renaissance-style courtyard where it actually "rains" into a sunken pool at the flip of a switch. Whether you’re standing in the glass-enclosed laboratory or looking out from the arched stone windows at the crashing Atlantic surf below, the scale of the place feels less like a house and more like a fever dream of European history brought to life in New England.

The 2026 season officially kicked off on April 3rd, and if you’re planning a North Shore day trip, you’ll want to skip the "Hogwarts" hype and lean into the actual history. For those who want the full fairytale experience without the crowds some TikTokers complain about, the Spiritualism Tours by Candlelight (running Thursdays through October) are the ultimate move. You get to explore Hammond’s obsession with the occult, including his attempts to contact the dead using a massive Faraday Cage, and—as a 2026 bonus—your ticket now includes a sunset picnic on the oceanside terrace.

The 2026 "Know Before You Go"

The Cost: Weekend tickets are $25 for adults, but here’s a pro-tip: visit on a weekday for a $20 rate. If you're a Gloucester resident, you can actually get in for free every Tuesday through the season.
The "Ilvermorny" Debate: In the comments, fans are quick to point out that if this were a wizarding school, it would technically be Ilvermorny (the North American school located in Greylock, MA). But honestly? It feels more like a Game of Thrones set dropped onto the Atlantic coast.
Special Events: Keep an eye out for their Bridgerton Afternoon Tea and the new Eric Pape fantasy illustration exhibit, which are much more "Gloucester glam" than "Dunkies and Wizards."

The Vibe: It’s quirky, it’s historic and yes, it’s incredibly photogenic. Just don't expect a Sorting Hat at the entrance—expect a massive pipe organ and some of the best ocean views in New England.

Bestselling Author Emma Straub on Midlife Reinvention, Nostalgia and the Genre She'll Never Write (Exclusive)

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:07am

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After a long, cold winter, many of us are eagerly anticipating warmer weather, beachy vibes and outdoor music (maybe even nostalgic concerts if you, like me, are going to multiple Hilary Duff shows this summer). But because it might be another few weeks before the majority of us can officially break out the short sleeves, the next best thing is to be transported in time and space via an Emma Straub novel.

And no, I don't mean *literal* time travel like in Straub's last book (2022's This Time Tomorrow). I mean picking up American Fantasy, her latest release (out today!) which transports you, the reader, to a sunny cruise featuring a '90s boy band and thousands of their fans, and explores themes of nostalgia, personal fulfillment and stepping outside of one's comfort zone.

I spoke with Straub ahead of this book's release and we talked about everything from midlife reinvention and her "revelatory" experience owning the Brooklyn bookstore Books Are Magic, to the inspiration behind her epigraphs (including a lyric from The Magnetic Fields about a pretty boy in his underwear) and the lasting impact of MTV.

Straub herself went on a New Kids on the Block cruise in 2023, which became the catalyst for this thought-provoking and heartwarming story. Here, she opens up to Parade about when she decided to write American Fantasy, which book genre she "couldn't" do and the novels she recommends reading after you finish this one.

Related: 50 Books Every Woman Over 50 Should Have on Her Bookshelf, According to Librarians

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Parade: When did the idea of writing a book like this hit you? Was it before you went on the cruise, or while you were on it?

ES: It was really one of those "bolt of lightning" sort of ideas where I was on Instagram or Facebook and I saw something about the New Kids on the Block cruise, and it was coming up, at that moment, in the next month. They'd been doing them for over 10 years at that point, so I knew that they were doing it—it wasn't the first I'd ever heard of it. But there was something about what I was going through in my life, which was my father had died in September, and I just saw it, and I was like, "That's it—that's my book."

So the idea of the cruise and the idea for the novel were one in the same. I have gone to see boy bands in concert many times over many years, and I had never thought about writing a boy band book, but thinking about the cruise, I was like, "No, that's it." Even though I didn't have any of the characters, I didn't have the story, I didn't have the actual meat of it, I had the bones.

What is so wonderful about a cruise—I mean, it's why Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile—if you have a contained space in a compressed time period, you've practically got a novel already because your characters are going to be stuck there together, to experience whatever they're experiencing, whether it's joy or, if you're Agatha Christie, murder.

And it would be my job to sort of figure out the details, and what fun! But it was truly a single moment where I was just recognizing that I could really have fun writing that book.

And I can imagine that would make the experience very fun to you in two different ways—you're on the cruise and enjoying it, but then you're also working and getting inspiration.

Yes, I had several little notebooks and I was writing things down constantly. Several women came up to me and asked me if I was a journalist, to which I could reply, totally honestly, "No, no, I'm not." I mean, I didn't tell anyone what I was doing, but I did deny being a journalist, because I'm not.

You were telling the truth, it's fine! I like how the book plays on the word "fantasy," too—between what the public thinks of as the unreal, glamorous lives of these boy band members and then also the fantasy of your own dreams and what you want your life to look like.And there's also the fantasy aspect of the dragon book that made the appearance! It did make me wonder if you've ever thought about dipping your toes into the fantasy or romantasy genre...

No—you know what's so funny? I spent most of the week at a booksellers conference, and I was talking to hundreds of other booksellers. And we were talking at dinner one night about how if we were really smart, we would just write the dragon book that everyone really wants the most. But I couldn't do it. And in a funny way, it's knowing that I couldn't is what makes me feel the best about being a writer. I'm not writing for the marketplace. I'm not writing for any sort of imagined audience.

With this book and This Time Tomorrow—it was the only gift the pandemic gave me, really, is that I was like, well, if this is the world, I am going to write the book of my heart, the book that I need. I did that with This Time Tomorrow, and American Fantasy really is almost the yin-yang other half. Obviously, This Time Tomorrow was, you know, a time travel book about grief, and this is like a romp on the open seas! But they are connected in that way where they both really were satisfying something deep inside of me in a way that I absolutely never intended to tackle those subjects.

That definitely comes across in them too. I also love how in American Fantasy, there's almost this "Instagram versus reality" aspect for the characters because of how their lives may look on the outside versus what they're actually struggling with. It also seems like many of the different characters made choices based on what was a "logical next step" versus what they truly would have chosen as like, "Oh, this is what I want to do."

It left them wondering, "Can I start over? Is it too late to start over?" And I loved how the different characters were grappling with that question. How important is it, in your opinion, for people to embrace reinvention or reignite that at any age?

Yes. Oh, God. I think it's so important. In a sort of, in a funny way, I actually think that the older you get, the easier it is to see that. Because when you're in your 20s, you look at 30 and you think, "Oh my God, 30 is middle-aged and ancient!" And now I'm 45, and when I think about myself at 30, I think, "Oh, I was a child!"

I've seen so many of my friends go through enormous midlife shifts—whether it's getting a divorce or remarrying or deciding to have a child on their own, not waiting for a partner anymore, or starting a new career, going back to school, moving across the country, moving to another country. I have friends who have done so many enormous things in their 40s and 50s and then there are all the transitions that are sort of built-in to life, like your children leaving the nest, retirement, all of those kinds of things. Those are enormous transitions, too!

So I think it's really a young person's hang up to think that transitions are over. I remember when I got married, I was very young, I was 28. And I remember thinking, "Okay, well, there we go!" You know, like, "Now I'm set!" Not understanding or knowing how many changes you go through, despite the building blocks that you have put in place, and embracing those changes and seeing them as an opportunity, like it's actually good—they're actually good! But it takes a little while to see that.

I also always enjoy the different group dynamics in your books. You give such great details about those larger units, while giving us a chance to really deeply know individual characters at the same time. I'm curious what it was like for you to build not only your own version of this boy band, but also, you got to build a large fandom, a crew staff—there were all different groups on the ship. Did you know from the start that you wanted to highlight all of those different specific types of characters?

What's funny is that so many of my books, as you know, are about families and family dynamics, which I do find endlessly fascinating because there are an unlimited number of permutations that families can take. But with this book, I was really excited to explore the other kind of group dynamics that we experience.

Honestly, what's interesting is that owning the bookstore has been revelatory for me in terms of understanding so many things like intergenerational, professional relationships. I'm in my mid-40s and most of our booksellers are in their mid-to-late 20s, I would say, and all of those people have taught me so much, it's incredible.

And I love a workplace—you know, like, why do people love The Office? It's not because it's "sexy" or "cool," it's because we recognize it. We recognize like, "Oh, yeah, my best friend is actually this 50-year-old man who works in accounting. I can't tell you why, but we are besties for the resties." We all have those kinds of funny relationships!

So I wanted to think about that, and then I really wanted to think about this boy band. What is it like? What is it like on the inside? I really was so curious about exploring what feels great about it, and what feels terrible about it, and what would those people be struggling with? What would they be thinking about?

I loved it and it gave me so much empathy for people, especially—I mean, I think it's not easy to be famous, period. But I think people who have been famous from childhood—that is, it's a real sacrifice. That's really what I came away feeling: it is something of a sacrificial existence. And people have to figure out how to exist in that, and that's really complicated. It's not easy.

While you were writing your characters, were there any actors or well-known personalities you were envisioning?

I spent a lot of time thinking about all of the various boybands. I've put in the most time, certainly over the last 35 years, thinking about the New Kids on the Block. But I watched every documentary, I read and watched so much about every boy band, so I was thinking about all of those real people.

But no, in terms of like, dream casting, I don't know. There isn't anybody except, what I love about Annie is that she feels sophisticated—she lives in New York, she works for this magazine. I think of her as someone who is sophisticated, but soft, and not totally put together—which is just a character that I would love to see on the big screen.

I agree. You mentioned that you watched a lot of documentaries and read all of these different books—and I saw that you actually have a Spotify playlist for each of your books, too! Did you listen to a lot of New Kids on the Block, or were there any other specific—and maybe surprising—singers, bands or genres that you gravitated toward while writing American Fantasy?

I went deep on boy bands. I have one friend who is a bookseller in Texas, and she's a little older than I am, but her number one love is One Direction. And I mean, I knew the top hits, but she made me a whole One Direction playlist that is like deep cuts, plus a lot of solo material.

But in terms of unexpected things, when thinking about the cruise in particular, it's really like a certain hardcore 80s playlist, like the music videos that were on MTV all day long in my childhood. My parents were around and did a great job, but MTV raised me, you know what I mean? MTV 100% raised me. So, you know, Madonna, Janet Jackson...

But then also, what I loved about MTV, actually, is that you were like its prisoner. I was not a grunge girly, I did not care about Pearl Jam. But could I sing you every word of probably at least four or five Pearl Jam songs? Yes, because I watched the videos 10,000 times totally against my will. I feel the same way about Nirvana—the music was not for me, but I was watching it anyway! So basically anything that was on MTV between like 1985 and 2001, I would say, that's the inside of my brain.

I also *love* your epigraphs and I wanted to ask about some of the inspiration for them—is it from what you read and watch before writing the book, or as you're writing, or when do you nail that down?

Yeah, you know, because Annie works at this opera magazine, I really wanted to position her as a person coming from a totally other direction. I grew up in a household—I mean, I was watching MTV, but my parents really only listened to jazz and the opera, that's what was playing in my house. My parents took me to see jazz and operas, and they did not take me to see the New Kids on the Block.

I was actually I was talking to my mother about this recently, and I said, "I can't believe you never took me." And she said to me with a totally straight face, "I don't know if they...do you think they came here?" And I'm like, "To New York City?! Yeah, I do. For sure. I think they came." I grew up on the Upper West Side, which is like 40 blocks away from Madison Square Garden, or we could have gone to New Jersey, Long Island, whatever. I am sure they came, but my parents were just not clicked in to that.

My husband had normal parents who listened to the radio, the popular radio. And so they took him to go see Michael Jackson and Billy Joel. Not me, not me—and so I wanted some of that in here, too. When I was in high school, I took an opera class that was like opera appreciation, listening.

You weren't singing.

I was not singing. But my children go to the school that I went to, and my teacher from that class still works at the school, and I was like, "Can we have breakfast, and I go through all these little moments in the book and we can talk about opera? Because here's what I'm imagining, but what do you think?"

He had one that I put in, I think it's right at the beginning where it's an opera where nuns basically are processing to their deaths, but they're delighted about it.... He gave me so many amazing operas.

And he talked to me about the Tristan chord, which is this thing that's mentioned in one of the epigraphs, which I loved, which is the idea that in music, there can be—you know, we think of chords as resolving and especially those of us who listen to popular music, that's what our ears are trained for and want—but that there can be pieces of music where some of those things get that satisfaction and some of them don't.

And I just thought that that was perfect for Annie because what happens at the end of this book? I mean, we're not going to talk about the end, we're not giving away spoilers, but is it a resolution? And that's how our lives are: we get to see immediate satisfaction in some things—you graduate from high school and ta-da! You got a diploma! But in so many other parts of our life, the stories are ongoing and ever changing. You see some resolutions and you wait for others.

And then the other epigraph, a pretty boy in his underwear. I mean, if that's not the whole truth, it's just... if there's anything better in this whole world, who cares?!

Nailed it! OK, once people finish up American Fantasy, what are a couple of other books that you think give off a similar nostalgic-sentimental-introspective vibe? What should they read next?

That's an interesting question. The first book that comes to mind is my friend Gabrielle Zevin's Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, which is one of the greatest books I've ever read. It's not nostalgic, precisely, but it does tell the story of a bygone world, you know? We're moving so fast that 20 years really does feel like a long time. That is one of the most beautiful novels ever written. I would say that one.

And then Meg Wolitzer is one of my very, very favorite novelists. The Interestings is her book about kids at summer camp. It's kids who are at an "arty" theater camp, and they make friends. And the book follows them for decades. And it's the same kind of thing in that it really speaks to your childhood, your inner-self actually being quite steady, which I find to be true. The older I get, the more I know, like, my best friend from preschool, I can call her and talk to her about literally anything in my life, and she is right there. And she is the same as she was then.

If someone's looking for another character with a name involving "Pancake" (or "Pancakes"), they could do The Road to Tender Hearts too—I wanted to call that out.

Can I tell you—I probably shouldn't tell you this, but I will. On the New Kids on the Block cruise that I went on for research, there was a DJ and his his name was "DJ Cool Whip." And I was like, "What could I do?!" I could never come up with something that good. But then I was like, pancake...pancake...DJ Pancake!

This interview has been condensed and edited for length and clarity

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About the Author

Alpha Smoot

Emma Straub is the New York Times-bestselling author of six books for adults: the novels This Time Tomorrow, All Adults Here, The Vacationers, Modern Lovers, Laura Lamont’s Life in Pictures, and the short story collection Other People We Married. She and her husband own Books Are Magic, an independent bookstore in Brooklyn, New York.

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